I spent most of my career in the hotel sales & catering departments, serving for 11 years as a director, and I feel that my success as a travel professional is a direct result of my time in the hotel industry. My experience with customer service and attention to detail are skills that I carry over to my travel agency. After 20 years in the hotel industry, I felt I was ready for the next chapter in my life. I traveled extensively in my position, and I worked closely with a travel agent to plan a 20th anniversary trip, the first cruise for me and my spouse. I thoroughly enjoyed the process, and I realized it was something I would enjoy doing for others.
As a catering director, I was able to "paint pictures" of what clients could expect from an event, including all the details. That is exactly what I try to do now for my travel clients. I want them to be able to envision the places they will go and the experiences they will have. I live in Georgetown, Kentucky, just north of Lexington, and it is gratifying to be able to seek out unique destinations that will appeal to a wide range of clients, not just on land tours within the United States and abroad, but on cruises throughout the world.
Since purchasing my agency in December 2015, I have participated in FAM trips to Ireland and Spain. I have cruised on all the contemporary lines; Royal Caribbean, Carnival, and Norwegian, as well as premium lines; Holland America, Princess, and Celebrity. In March of 2023, I participated in the ASTA River Cruise Expo in Budapest and had an opportunity to sail the Avalon Envision on the upper Danube through Slovakia and Austria, with disembarkation in Germany.
A memorable trip I planned was a private driving tour for two couples through Ireland in 2019, that included tickets to The Open. Their goal was to craft a vacation around the tournament. I arranged for a private driver through the supplier of the drivers for my tour to Ireland two years earlier, and we scheduled excursions to the Giants Causeway, Cliffs of Moher, Ring of Kerry, Guinness Storehouse and Trinity College. Since I had traveled there, it was a fun trip to plan, and the clients loved it all, including their stays in Dublin, Galway, and Killarney.
One of my favorite destinations is Alaska. The scenery is unmatched, the people are wonderful, and the food is delicious. Alaska offers a variety of rich experiences, and a cruise on the Inside Passage will leave lasting memories with destinations like Juneau and Mendenhall Glacier, Glacier Bay National Park, or Hubbard Glacier.
I work with multi-generational family and small groups, solo travelers who want something out-of-the-ordinary, couples who desire luxury ocean or river cruises, and clients who want to celebrate a milestone event. In addition, my background is perfect for clients with an interest in wine, culinary, or wellness experiences.
If you’re ready to get started planning your next unforgettable trip, contact me today!