Scott Dunn said the bespoke tour operator, headquartered in Singapore has a turnover of £20 million, and predicts its own turnover to reach £160 million in 2018.

This latest acquisition is part of Scott Dunn’s global expansion strategy, as it aims to offer its expertise in “all markets” and provide service to guests 24/7. Scott Dunn opened a satellite sales office in Singapore in September 2016 to aid this.

During the next 12 months Country Holidays will be rebranded as Scott Dunn, and Scott Dunn’s existing sales team in Asia will merge with Country Holidays, sharing new headquarters in Singapore.

Country Holidays’ founder, Theng Hwee, will become Scott Dunn’s new chief executive – Asia, reporting to group chief executive Simon Russell.

The deal follows Scott Dunn’s acquisition of Aardvark Safaris’ US operation in San Diego in April 2016.

Russell said: “Following our success in North America, we are turning attention to Asia. Acquiring an operator as established and reputable as Country Holidays step-changes our access to a market with a huge demand for bespoke travel experiences.

“Country Holidays’ product portfolio and service ethic is the perfect fit for Scott Dunn. We look forward to rapidly capitalising on our combined position as the largest luxury tailormade travel business in Asia and continuing to offer our guests 24/7 service over the phone.”

Hwee added: “We are thrilled to become part of Scott Dunn. I am extremely proud of all we achieved in the last 23 years but this move will now accelerate our growth, with all the benefits that come from being part of a leading global organisation.”