Many people grow up wanting to be rockstars or actors, but arguably the travel industry is one of the best career paths out there for anyone who wants to see the world. Coinciding with the BSAP edition, we chatted with travel industry personnel to find out what they think are the coolest jobs in tourism.

“A tour director is the coolest job opportunity. Not only do you get to travel the world but you get to experience local cultures, meet new people, eat culture- and tradition-rich foods, explore off-the-beaten-path destinations and must-see sights and feel the energy of a different day, every day.  No two days will be the same. No group will be the same. No country will be the same. And you’re in charge of opening up the world and making dreams come true for countless clients.” -Denise Harper, senior director of business development – Canada, Globus family of brands

“One of the most interesting jobs in our industry are travel planners. These professionals are at the cutting edge of travel trends and innovation. They possess a keen insight into the evolving preferences of travellers and have the task of designing unique, transformative travel experiences from scratch. This role combines creativity with strategic challenge, requiring a deep understanding of global cultures, ecosystems, and market dynamics. It’s a career that offers immense satisfaction, as you literally shape the future of travel by crafting unforgettable journeys.” -Sheralyn Berry GM of the Americas HX | Hurtigruten Expeditions

“Before Intrepid, I worked at a surf camp in Morocco, which was certainly the coolest job I’ve ever had. For half of the day, I managed the camps social media, website and blog and for the other half of every day I surfed, and then in the evening I hung out with amazing people from around the world who were guests at the hotel. That was the coolest job in my book because it combined all the things that I loved doing.

As far as the most interesting job, I’d say Dr. Susanne Etti, who is Intrepid’s Global Environmental Impact Manager, takes that title. Working out how to decarbonize the world’s largest global adventure travel company is certainly not easy, but it’s a fascinating and essential challenge and she’s doing a fantastic job of it. -Tom Smith, VP of Sales and Marketing, North America at Intrepid Travel

“Since I am in sales my first thought is sales of course, I am fortunate to work with such professional and talented travel advisors, visit new and popular destinations and get to educate the trade in amazing new product and ways to help them sell more effectively with the work smarter not harder model, as well sales is the voice of the consumer and bringing that feedback into Air Canada Vacations is extremely rewarding when changes or enhancements are made because of open communication and amazing relationships that are built in this industry,  however in seeing where the industry is moving, a Luxury Travel Designer is a growth that is moving fast and growing, this role involves curating bespoke travel experiences for high end clientele and often involves exclusive destinations, luxury accommodations and personalized itineraries tailored to clients preferences and interests which can be a very lucrative career. What’s best, as you start expressing interest in this role, you will get invites to some amazing cruises, hotels and experiences and that is the best part of any career, especially travel. It’s experiencing what you are selling and bringing that passion back to the market. -Erminia Gallina, Director, Sales, Air Canada Vacations 

“Sorry to say but my job is the coolest one! I love promoting my country and to showcase what you can do in Portugal, why it is an amazing destination. But I could not do it without the help of all the travel professionals that I work with every day. -Inês Almeida Garrett, Director Canada, Turismo de Portugal

“I’ve lived and breathed this industry for as long as I can remember — from the mailroom to reservations and everything in between – and the most fulfilling jobs were always those with a direct opportunity to make customers happy. I have always been driven by the direct interaction with our cherished guests and there are so many touchpoints. As the company has grown, being on the innovation side and bringing a new product or service to market that totally transforms the guest experience – that is a powerful, full circle moment. There is so much opportunity in the world of hospitality to change people’s lives, to deliver a product so good it not only blows the guest experience out of the water, but challenges and changes the industry for the better. It’s this ‘guest-first’ mindset and this outcome that makes any role within the industry incredibly interesting and fulfilling.” -Adam Stewart, Executive Chairman, Sandals Resorts International

“I have always loved any job in the industry that involves true partnerships. While most roles include this some really focus on it. Whether it be working on brand, social, content or trade partnerships I think that it is so rewarding to be able to find mutual benefits to working together and making something magic happen. Plus, it is a great way to get to know people in different parts of the industry and open new doors.” -Jenni Berg, Director of Sales and National Accounts, TTC Tour Brands