Hey there, my name is Roy Dong. Travel has been my passion for over a decade, shaping my worldview and fuelling my curiosity. Exploring various countries and cities has allowed me to immerse myself in diverse cultures and landscapes, enriching my experiences. I ventured into the travel industry in late 2023 with this wealth of firsthand knowledge. While I may be a fresh face in this field, my enthusiasm and deep understanding of travel drive my eagerness to grow and contribute. I’m thrilled to embark on this exciting chapter, eager to share my insights and continue evolving within the industry.
I became a travel advisor because I’ve always been passionate about travelling and helping others explore the world. I’ve been travelling since my teenage years, honing my skills in trip planning and finding the best deals online. My friends have often sought my assistance with their travel plans because of this. Then, one day, a friend suggested that I become a travel advisor due to my knack for giving advice. That’s when it clicked for me—I could turn my passion into a profession.
My favourite part of being a travel agent is receiving messages from my clients saying they are satisfied and enjoy their travels. Bringing happiness to their travel experiences brings me joy.
My least favourite part of the job is the challenge of maintaining a work-life balance. Initially, I assumed that being a travel advisor would afford me a flexible schedule. However, as my client base grew, I found myself needing to work early mornings, late evenings, and even weekends to accommodate my clients’ needs.
My top tip would be to step into your client’s shoes. Listen closely to what they want and need, then craft a travel experience that’s tailor-made just for them. Additionally, staying informed about current travel regulations and safety guidelines will help you navigate any challenges that may arise, ultimately enhancing the trust and confidence your clients have in your services.
I don’t think so. Most of my clients book vacations for leisure purposes rather than seeking revenge travel.
I think there are two main reasons why people choose to use a travel advisor or my services rather than planning their trips alone. Firstly, utilizing a travel advisor can save valuable time on research. Instead of spending hours scouring the internet for the best deals and destinations, clients can rely on the expertise and industry connections of a travel advisor to streamline the planning process. Additionally, working with a travel advisor can often result in better prices and value for money. Travel advisors can access exclusive deals, discounts, and package offers that may not be readily available to the general public. Our relationships with travel suppliers and insider industry knowledge can help clients secure competitive rates and additional perks, ultimately maximizing their travel budget.
The average age of my clients is around 30. I’ve noticed a significant number of younger clients using travel advisors. Despite their tech-savvy nature and ability to plan trips online, many of them lead busy lives and appreciate the convenience of having someone else handle the details. Younger clients particularly value the expertise and personalized recommendations that travel advisors offer, especially when navigating complex travel logistics or seeking unique experiences. One surprising trend I’ve observed is that younger clients are increasingly willing to invest in luxury travel experiences. This goes against the assumption that they prefer budget-friendly options, suggesting a shift towards prioritizing quality and personalized service in their travels.
One of my most cherished travel memories is from my honeymoon journey. My wife and I embarked on a 20-day adventure, starting from Canada and going to Dubai, the Maldives, Singapore, Japan, Hong Kong, and finally back to our hometown in China. It was such a special time for us because we got to explore so many different places together and make unforgettable memories as a newly married couple. From the busy streets of Tokyo to the beautiful beaches of the Maldives, each destination was unique and amazing in its way. For me, travel is not just about visiting new places or ticking off destinations from a bucket list. It’s about immersing oneself in different cultures, forging connections with people from diverse backgrounds, and creating lifelong memories with loved ones. It’s about embracing the beauty of our world and the richness of human experiences, all while gaining a deeper understanding of ourselves and our place in the world.
The most expensive booking I’ve ever made was for a large family who booked a cruise travel package.
I believe that as a professional travel advisor, our services are valuable and deserving of a fee. However, as I’m currently starting my business, I’ve chosen not to charge fees. This decision is aimed at expanding my customer base and establishing trust with clients. As my business grows and matures, I may consider implementing fees to reflect the value of the personalized service and expertise I provide.
I would like to express my gratitude to my company, Onvigo, for providing me with an exceptional platform to pursue my career as a travel advisor. As a newcomer to the travel industry, I am both surprised and proud to have been nominated for this honour. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Shean Carmichael, director of Onvigo, for recognizing my efforts and nominating me for this event. It is truly an honour, and I am excited to continue growing and contributing to the travel industry with the support of my colleagues and mentors at Onvigo.
