The Monday Minute is a weekly feature from PAX that highlights the promoters, change-makers, leaders and rule-breakers of Canada's travel advisor community. Do you want to be profiled? Do you want to nominate someone? Email newsroom@paxglobalmedia.com!
Name: Patty Hewitt
Business: BST Vacations/Brose and Stewart Travel Group
where do you live?Peterborough, Ontario
How long have you been a travel advisor?
37 years. My first job in the travel industry was at Globe's Gateway in 1986. He worked there for two years before transitioning into the retail travel industry, where he has worked as a travel agent for 37 years (33 of those years were with BST Vacations/Brose & Stewart Travel). ).
What is your specialty?
I've been to all 7 continents so I feel confident selling all destinations. I specialize in putting together, selling and escorting customized groups.
What made you decide to become a travel advisor?
I was lucky enough to start traveling at a young age and discovered that I loved exploring new places and meeting new people. I enrolled in his three-year travel and tourism course at Fleming College because I was convinced that the travel industry was the field I wanted to be in.
What was the first trip you took?
Florida, as a child.
What travel trends are you seeing these days?
Clients are booking much earlier these days, looking for a better experience and spending more money. Upgraded airline seats are very popular and sell out quickly.
Of all the bookings you have made, which itinerary are you most proud of?
My customized Africa group itinerary. I spent 4 nights in Cape Town on a local tour, 4 nights at Buffalo Camp in Kapama, 3 nights on the Zambezi Queen on the Chobe River, and 2 nights at Victoria Falls. Kapama Buffalo Camp is my favorite place in the world. I have taken three of his groups, 60 people in total, to Africa and they all say this is the trip of a lifetime and that they wouldn't change anything for future groups. I did.
What is the most memorable trip you have ever taken?
Africa. It's hard to explain in words, but I feel that Africa is an amazing place and has the potential to change your life. The people of South Africa are wonderful and the interaction with the animals is incredible.
Where do you think your career will be in a year? What are your future goals?
My goals for next year are to continue to build the group business and take groups to Churchill, Manitoba to see polar bears. I am also putting together a group of tour guides for Tahiti cruises.
What new skills have you learned recently?
Learning a new airline computer system.
What would you like to change about the travel industry?
The travel industry can be unforgiving at times. It is very difficult to get help, especially from the airline, if the agent makes a mistake. Our mistake, our cost. It would have been nice to have a little more support.
What is the secret to success in this business?
Knowledgeable, enthusiastic and loyal staff.
What is your motto?
Embrace the journey – seize the moment and travel now.
What is your best advice to other travel advisors?
Relationships with customers are very important. Be sure to take the time to build and foster relationships with your customers to build trust and loyalty.
Where will you travel next?
From May 28th to June 11th, join Founders Club tours to Newfoundland and enjoy the island's rich history, stunning scenery, and warm hospitality. Next, dive into South Africa's vibrant culture with his fourth group from October 15th to his 31st. We are very much looking forward to returning to our luxury tented camp at Kapama Game Reserve. And to end the year in style, she'll be taking a two-week vacation in December to soak up the sun in a private villa in Jamaica.
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