Tell us a little about yourself and how long you’ve been in the industry?
By trade, I’m a Business Corporate Executive and I have occupied multiple Fortune 50 executive management positions over the years. Being an entrepreneur, I bought my first travel agency back in 1989 and following its sale, I have continued on tour leading groups across the globe.
Why and how did you decide to become a travel advisor?
Having been able to travel all over the world from a really young age, I have always been passionate about travelling and it led me to build custom itineraries for both my family and myself. Having continuously been involved in the travel industry even if I was in a position in other sectors, the pandemic led me to reorient my career and pursue my travel advisor academic course to master the contents of the profession and build my own travel agency.
What’s your favourite part of being a travel agent?
I really appreciate creating custom client itineraries to allow them to discover the most fabulous places worldwide. Having been fortunate enough to travel all over the world, I am able to craft and allow my clients to live their best travel experiences.
What’s the main thing that’s changed about your clients or the travel industry since the pandemic?
Clients are back to seek insightful guidance at a travel agency and more importantly, make sure that their travel needs are fulfilled.
Do you believe more people are using travel advisors since the pandemic? Why or why not?
Yes, I am convinced that people are reaching out to travel advisors to enhance their travel planning experience and support throughout the travelling journey.
Can you share a special travel memory and what travel means to you?
All of my clients recognize me as being very attached to the African continent and my most treasurable memories, either alone or with groups, are my most cherishable memories. More precisely, that would be in both Kenya and Tanzania.
What’s still on your travel must see list?
South eastern Asia such as Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos and Thailand.
In hindsight, what do you know now that you wish you knew when you were first starting out?
I wish I would’ve known and developed more skills in the product development position to enhance my knowledge in that regard, earlier on in my career.
Where do you stand on charging fees?
I believe that we are offering and providing our clients with expertise, knowledge and experience to create the best travel experiences available in our respective areas. It is a service that brings value to the client and therefore should be compensated as such. Our philosophy is to support our administrative fee structure through clients fees and retain a minimal amount for our services because we get compensated for the products that are sold.
What’s the nicest thing a client has ever done for you?
For me the simple things are the best. When my clients call me at their destination to let me know that they are mind-blown and excited by the environment they find themselves in, I am very happy. To me, client recognition is the nicest way to appreciate and support our commitment to offering the best client travel experiences.
Do you have anything to add?
We are reaching a turning point in the travel industry activities and the upcoming 2024 year will be a great year for everyone in the travel community with many opportunities and many shared success stories.
