Tell us a little about yourself and how long you’ve been in the industry?
While studying Travel Consulting back in the ‘90s, I answered a post on the college bulletin board for a part-time position with Sears Travel. Thirty plus years later — I’m still doing what I love to do. From my eight years with Sears Travel in Alberta and BC, and another three with AMA Travel in the Groups & Incentives department, I gained so much experience. In 2003 I became a single mom. In order to spend as much time with my son as I could, I opened my own company and started working from home. Gypsy Group Travel (GGT), specializing in affinity groups, came into being. I haven’t regretted it for a moment.
In 2012 we moved to Nova Scotia, and my company moved right along with me. My clientele is now from all across Canada — thank goodness for today’s technology. I think I may have been one of the first agents to join The Travel Agent Next Door when it started in 2014. At least I’m hoping that’s why Mr. Friisdahl refers to me as one of his “oldest” agents.
Why and how did you decide to become a travel advisor?
As a child (please note I didn’t say “growing up” because I’m pretty sure I haven’t yet) I was told to find something I enjoyed doing, and make it my career. When I was eleven my grandmother took my cousin and I touring Great Britain for three weeks. We flew Wardair. I was hooked. Since then, I’ve been determined to see as much of the world as I can, and to help others to do so as well.
What’s your favourite part of being a travel agent?
I’m a people pleaser by nature. My favourite part of being an advisor has got to be the knowledge that I have, or had, a hand in creating wonderful memories and moments in my clients’ lives. I don’t think anything brings me more happiness in this job than a call from a client saying they’re home and they had a fabulous trip.
What’s the main thing that’s changed about your clients or the travel industry since the pandemic?
Many of my clients are requesting the “Bells & Whistles” now or planning the bucket list trips they’ve put off for years. I’m seeing more requests for upgrades on both flights, room categories, private transfers etc., I love it.
Do you believe more people are using travel advisors since the pandemic? Why or why not?
I’ve had quite a few new clients referred by existing clients over the last two years, so I’m led to believe that yes, travel advisors are more in demand. Also, many of these new clients are asking how I get paid for my services. That immediately tells me they’re totally new to working with a travel agent.
Can you share a special travel memory and what travel means to you?
My favourite travel memory happened while escorting a group to Hawaii. There were about 200 from across Canada and we were doing a group photo on Waikiki Beach. They spontaneously broke out singing our national anthem. It was eerie – the crowded beach became silent and listened, then applauded. It was ridiculously touching and I was a mushy mess hiding behind the Lifeguard station so no one could see me tearing up. I might be a tad patriotic…
What’s still on your travel must see list?
Cherry Blossom season in Japan. Oh! And a balloon ride over the Loire Valley. Wait! I want to see the Taj Mahal. And stay in an over-the-water bungalow in the Maldives. I still haven’t experienced Victoria Falls or seen the Kasbahs in Morocco. I knock destinations off my list as often as I can, but somehow more keep getting frickin added. Every time I research a new-to-me destination for a client, it seems to end up on my travel list too!
In hindsight, what do you know now that you wish you knew when you were first starting out?
I started in the industry young… and poor. Champagne dreams on a beer budget. I often approached planning trips assuming my clients were in the same boat I was and needed the least expensive holiday possible. Being at this for a while now (nice way of saying older) I understand that finding the perfect fit for someone as far as a tour, hotel or whatever is much more important than the price tag. And cover your butt. Always. Make notes, take names, record dates, and get signatures. Communication is huge in this industry.
Where do you stand on charging fees?
Charging fees has become such a hot topic! I think it comes down to your own comfort level with it. I feel very lucky. I have a loyal clientele (after this many years I should have!) that I would never think to charge fees to – UNLESS it’s an air only booking. We just don’t make enough for the stress often involved with those!
I have to say though, I may have once or twice replied to unsolicited prospect requests by quoting a booking fee before I share any of my “Intellectual Property”. This definitely weeds out the shoppers from the serious inquiries. It’s called the Bye-bye-Tire-Kicker-don’t-waste-my-time-method.
What’s the nicest thing a client has ever done for you?
I had clients with a tour of Europe booked for the summer of 2020. It included a river cruise, seeing the Passion Play in Oberammergau, and more. We had been working together on the itinerary for over a year. Then you-know-what happened. When they were forced to cancel everything, I helped them with their insurance claim, and closed the file. It was right at that crazy hectic time when we were all trying to keep our heads above water with cancellations and refunds etc. I didn’t think about it anymore. It was one of many. A month later I received a thank-you card from them, asking me to accept the cheque enclosed in appreciation for all my work. With all the chaos going on, and the heartbreaking bad news continually bombarding us at that time, this act of kindness made me just break down and cry. I had never discussed losing income with them, nor any of my clients for that matter. This couple was just over-the-top kind and thoughtful.
Do you have anything to add?
I feel so blessed in life to have found a career doing something I love. To whomever nominated me, thank you! Being recognized in this manner is really touching, I’m feeling so appreciated.
