Tributes paid to ‘travel gentleman’ Andy Sawicki

Tributes have been paid to travel industry veteran Andy Sawicki, who passed away on Tuesday (November 15).

Formerly Cosmos’ overseas director, he retired at the end of 2000 after 23 years with the operator.

He was married to Jackie Kernaghan, who has extensive experience in the hotel and travel sectors, and was voted as one of the most influential women in travel in 2014.

Hugh Morgan, who has retired after 54 years in tour operating with brands such as Cosmos, Monarch and Thomas Cook, took to Twitter to say: “I was terribly saddened to hear of the sad loss of my dear friend Andy Sawicki Travel Legend, gentleman and a wonderful person. Andy you will be missed by so many and deepest sympathies to Jackie and all of your family RIP.”

Peter Shanks, UK and Ireland managing director at Silversea, added: “Andy Sawicki was a true Gentleman and a shining example of integrity – I had the privilege of working with him many years ago. Very sad news and thoughts are with Jackie.”

Kristina Wallen, Harp wallen founder, also described him as “a true gentleman”.

I was terribly saddened to hear of the sad loss of my dear friend Andy Sawicki Travel Legend, gentlemen and a wonderful person. Andy you will be missed by so many and deepest sympathies to Jackie and all of your family RIP ❤️❤️❤️

— #Hugh Morgan (@Hughsmorgan) November 15, 2022

She added: “I first met Andy back in the late 80s when I was running Argyle. He, together with Jackie (Kernaghan), were clients – in an industry where there were many who sailed closed to the wind particularly in product, contracting and overseas operations, Andy was the consummate professional – a man of many talents (several languages) and time for all who crossed his path.

“A man of huge integrity as well as fun and charming and a friend who influenced many individuals’ careers. Thoughts are with Jackie and all the family.”

A former Cosmos colleague, Danny Talbot, said: “During my time at at Cosmos I worked for Andy Sawicki – the epitome of a true gentleman. His industry knowledge was extensive as he spanned so many phases and generations of tour operating.

“On first meeting Andy he was quite formal and with that undertone of a Polish accent and tall stature, quite formidable.

“But that soon went on getting to know him and when his guard was down, he would often chat at length about his beloved Arsenal – not easy to listen to as a Spurs fan but he was the boss! I’m very thankful for his wise guidance and management over my time at Cosmos – I owe him a lot. RIP Andy.”

Jo Rzymowska, EMEA vice-president and managing director at Celebrity Cruises, said on Twitter: “Truly sad. A true Polish Gentleman. A major force in our industry during my early career. Sending love and condolences to Jackie Kernaghan and family.”

Clive Jacobs, chairman of Travel Weekly parent Jacobs Media Group, added: “I am deeply saddened by this news as I often think of Andy as he was a shining example to humanity, bright kind and gentle, a true role model from a bygone era.”