Monday Minute: Ken Stewart of Crowfoot Travel Solutions

The Monday Minute is a weekly feature in PAX that highlights the movers, shakers, leaders and rule breakers of Canada's travel advisor community. Wanna be profiled? Wanna nominate someone? Email newsroom@paxglobalmedia.com!

Name: Ken Stewart

Business: Crowfoot Travel Solutions

Where do you live? Calgary, AB

How long have you been a travel advisor? More than 25 years

What is your specialty? Sun destinations, groups, destination weddings, multigenerational families

What inspired you to become a travel advisor?

Mid-life crisis. I wanted a career change after 27 yrs. with Safeway and decided to open my own travel agency. I figured with my retail background, I could always find another job if it didn’t work out. Thankfully it did.

What’s the first trip you ever took?

An all-inclusive, many moons ago, in Puerto Vallarta. I had heard about how everything was included in your package in this new format. After experiencing it, I was hooked.

What travel trends are you seeing these days?

Multigenerational family trips, both all-inclusive sun destinations and FIT, destinations in Europe. And solo travel, which is mostly women. Also seeing all-inclusive sun destinations all year long now. Not just during winter.

Of all the bookings you’ve made, which itinerary are you most proud of?

I would have to say my wedding groups, helping to make it happen for them, providing what they need to have a stress free, memorable time. One booking that stands out in particular was an Asian wedding for an Indian couple in Mexico at an all-inclusive resort. It was an exciting process for me. I learned about their culture. There were many moving parts and events for the couple and guests to take part in – not just the wedding day.

What’s the most memorable trip you ever took?

A few years ago, Travelsavers, our consortium, hosted us on a trip to Africa with a safari as well. It was a bucket-list trip, exceeding all expectations, but especially memorable was sharing it with my wife and so many “family and friends” from the business.

Where do you see your business one year from now?

I recently sold my office, but I’m staying on as an independent contractor. I have clients who are now family. Grandparents, their children and their children's children are booking. I am still enjoying the gig.

What’s one new skill you’ve acquired recently?

Being able to admit to myself, I still do not know it all!

What’s one thing you would change about the travel industry?

I may get criticized for saying this, but today, there are too many “hobby agents” in the industry who are just doing it for the perks. Often, they hurt the true travel agents that are doing it for the love of the job and to make an income. It creates the perception that we are not “professionals” at our craft and can jeopardize the trust factor that goes along with that.

What’s the secret to being successful in this business?

Being personable, friendly and honest with clients, potential clients and suppliers. You do it because you enjoy it, not just to make money.

What is your motto?

As we say to our clients, “Relax, it’s all taken care of!”

What is your number one piece of advice to other travel advisors?

Work as a collective. No one knows it all. Share with each other and ask for assistance – even if they are a competitor. It just makes us all better.

Where are you travelling next?

Hoping to cross Greece off my bucket list this fall with my wife.

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