From Paris to Southeast Asia, with experiences in North America and Africa, Michel Arnoux has built a career guided by two principles: people and innovation. These values shaped his eight years at Evaneos — a pioneering French platform connecting travellers with local agencies to design tailor-made, responsible trips — and today inspire his new role as Director of Asia My Way’s Indochina operations.
“If I had to sum up my choice to join Asia My Way in just two words, they would be people and innovation,” says Michel, a long-time Asia enthusiast now fulfilling his dream of living in the region.
For him, innovation and human connection are inseparable.
“Tourism is a deeply human industry: without listening and without connection, we miss the essence. But it’s also highly competitive, where constant innovation is vital. Innovation only makes sense if it serves people — with a capital P.”
An Unconventional Start
Surprisingly, Michel’s career began not in tourism but in banking, where he supported clients in life projects such as buying a home or car.
“I loved that proximity — helping people realise life goals was very motivating,” he recalls.
Soon, he realised travel offered an even closer match to his values. After retraining in tourism, he moved to Canada, joining a small inbound agency where he discovered his vocation.
“Because the team was so small, I got to do everything: sales, product design, guiding, hotel relations… That’s when I thought: wow, this is exactly what I want to do.”
A Career at Evaneos
Back in Europe, Michel joined Evaneos. There, he trained local agencies in B2C sales, supported digitalisation, and managed portfolios of inbound operators across Africa and Asia. His focus was always to build bridges between local realities and travellers’ expectations.
It was during this time that he first worked with Asia My Way, then known to French-speaking travellers as Les Voyages d’Angèle.
“We worked hand in hand, and I immediately appreciated their innovative spirit and human approach,” he says.
Falling in Love with Southeast Asia
As for Southeast Asia, Michel first travelled to Myanmar in 2014 and was immediately captivated.
“The cultural richness, the kindness of the people… I fell in love with Southeast Asia,” he recalls.
From then on, he returned again and again — to Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Japan — always drawn back to Asia.
“Each time, I thought I’d explore another part of the globe. But no, I always returned. It was obvious: this is where I wanted to commit myself.”
Building with Asia My Way
After years of supporting agencies worldwide, Michel felt the need to return to the field. That step naturally led him to Asia My Way.
“After several years supporting Asia My Way from the outside, I wanted to take the next step and join the team. I needed to be back on the ground, where the real work happens.”
Now based in Hanoi, Michel oversees Asia My Way’s operations in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos. His vision is clear: co-create innovative, sustainable experiences with local providers and communities.
“Listening and adaptability are essential to creating unique experiences, far from standardised circuits. My first priority is to understand the field and hear local voices. Adaptability is the key — especially when it comes to sustainability.”
By joining Asia My Way, Michel brings his experience to an agency that shares his values. His arrival marks the opening of a new chapter for our Indochina team — and for travellers seeking authentic, meaningful journeys.
Get in touch with Michel Arnoux
As Indochina Director, Michel is your key contact for Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos.
📧 Contact by email | 📍 Hanoi, Vietnam
