Tell us a little about yourself and how long you’ve been in the industry?
My name is Linda Landry, and I’m a travel consultant with CAA Atlantic in Charlottetown. I’ve been in the industry since 1990, driven by my deep passion for exploring the world. There’s nothing quite like experiencing different cultures and landscapes firsthand. Travel has also been a big part of my family life—I’ve been fortunate to share many incredible trips with my three adult children, Greg, Ben, and Kiara. My husband, Jamie, has always supported my desire to see as much of this incredible world as possible.
What do you specialize in and why?
Living on an island with a population of just 165,000, I don’t limit myself to a specific niche—I prefer to assist as many travellers as I can. That said, I have a special love for European destinations, Disney vacations, and family getaways. For me, the most rewarding part of my job is being part of someone’s journey, even if it’s just by helping to plan their travels. Knowing I’ve played a role in creating unforgettable memories brings me so much joy.
I recently read a study that women above the age of 50 will drive $746 billion in travel spending by 2035 – coming in right after millennials. Does that align with your clientele?
Yes, this definitely aligns with my clientele, as I’m also part of Generation X. Many of my clients are seasoned travellers who have reached a stage in life where they prioritize experiences over material things.
Are you noticing any interesting trends from the bookings you have? Are your clients still traveling to the U.S. despite the ongoing tariffs?
Europe and cruising remain incredibly popular among my clients. Some have hesitated to travel to the U.S. due to economic concerns, but after COVID, I think people have a greater appreciation for the ability to travel freely. If there’s one thing I’ve learned in over 30 years as a travel agent, it’s this: Travel while you can. You can always make more money, but the years to create lifelong memories are limited.
What’s your biggest piece of advice for travel advisors right now?
Stay passionate about this incredible industry—it’s always changing, but that’s what keeps it exciting. And most importantly, travel as much as you can. Firsthand experience is invaluable, and the knowledge you gain will always benefit your clients.
Tell us about a booking that stands out—whether it was the most expensive, the longest, or the most adventurous.
One that stands out was a booking in 2022—a teacher took a six-month leave from work to travel the world with her eight-year-old child. COVID restrictions were still in place, so there was an enormous amount of paperwork and online forms to navigate, but she was determined to make it happen. It was a once-in-a-lifetime journey, and they made memories that will last forever. Helping make that trip a reality was incredibly rewarding.
What are your thoughts on FAM trips? Are they valuable? Why? Do they help you sell more? How can they be improved?
I’m a huge believer in FAM (familiarization) trips and in travel in general. As travel agents, we need to experience destinations firsthand to truly help our clients. FAM trips allow us to assess hotels, local attractions, and unique experiences so we can provide honest, knowledgeable recommendations. They also help us build relationships with suppliers, which in turn benefits our clients. Without a doubt, these trips boost confidence, credibility, and overall customer satisfaction. The more you travel, the better you can serve your clients.
What’s the biggest challenge facing the travel industry right now? What can be done to help?
Right now, economic uncertainty—tariffs, the potential for a recession, and job security—is making some travellers hesitant. But throughout my career, I’ve seen the industry overcome major challenges, from 9/11 and SARS to COVID.
One thing is certain: travel always prevails. The industry is resilient, and people will always have the desire to explore the world.
Do you have anything to add?
I’d love to see more young people enter the travel industry. Many of us are within 10 to 15 years of retirement, and there’s so much opportunity in this field. It’s a fantastic career that allows you to meet interesting people, constantly learn, and, of course, travel to some incredible destinations.
Nominator:
“Linda is a top travel advisor who consistently goes the extra mile to ensure her clients have unforgettable experiences. Her exceptional service and dedication have placed her among the top producers in the country, showcasing her impressive revenue production. At CAA Atlantic, Linda stands out for her ability to craft personalized travel experiences, whether it’s a luxury cruise, river cruise, 5-star all-inclusive resort, or a high-end guided tour. From start to finish, Linda’s clients receive unparalleled service and meticulous attention to detail. Her passion for travel and unwavering commitment to her clients make her truly deserving of recognition.”
Shane Coupland, Director of Travel Sales, CAA Atlantic
