Monday Minute: Meredith Gillies of Somewhere Mere

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: Meredith Gillies

Business: Somewhere Mere – Meredith Gillies (Fareconnect.com)

Where do you live? Southwestern Ontario

How long have you been a travel advisor? 2.5 years

What is your specialty?

I’m a full-service travel concierge for high-net-worth individuals and families, managing everything from corporate travel on private jets to seasonal travel between residences and ultra-luxury vacations. My focus is always on discretion, personalization, and exceptional service. I also plan FITs, adventure travel, cruises, and all-inclusive packages for a broader leisure clientele as my capacity allows.

What inspired you to become a travel advisor?

I've always been inspired by the beauty and diversity of the world. Becoming a travel advisor felt like the perfect way to not only explore more myself but to also help others make the most of their most valuable resource: time. I love creating experiences that align with my clients’ goals, passions, and dreams, helping them spend their time meaningfully.

What’s the first trip you ever took?

My early life included many road trips, camping expeditions in Northern Alberta (where I grew up), and family reunions. When I was a teen, I was fortunate to go on a cheerleading competition trip to Mexico, but my first big trip was my honeymoon to Antigua, which truly sparked my love for travel.

What travel trends are you seeing these days?

There has been an understandable uptick in European travel with people exploring their family heritage and doing multi-generational trips. Beyond that, I think people want to get off the beaten path more than they have historically. Travellers are also going for more a la carte, rather than packaged vacations.

One growing trend I’ve noticed is what I call 'travel for the 'gram' – visiting destinations mainly for photos rather than genuine experiences. While capturing memories is wonderful, it sometimes feels like the focus has shifted from cultural immersion to curated content. In some cases, this kind of tourism can negatively impact local communities and environments. I always encourage my clients to slow down, be present, and truly connect with a place. That’s where the real magic of travel happens.

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

The first trip I ever booked as a travel advisor was a six-week FIT to Australia and New Zealand. It included major cities, a wildflower tour on the west coast, a self-drive adventure in Tasmania, and private tours with top operators across multiple islands and regions. The clients were thrilled with how seamless the arrangements were. To date, it remains my most intricate itinerary, but I’m excited to be working on even more ambitious journeys for 2025-2026!

What’s the most memorable trip you ever took?

For my husband’s birthday, I planned a surprise trip to Iceland, and it turned out to be one of the most awe-inspiring places we've ever visited. The landscapes were breathtaking, and the warmth of the people and richness of the culture made it unforgettable. Highlights included watching the sunset over the Atlantic from the Sky Lagoon, hiking the trails of a freshly-erupted volcano, standing alone under the aurora borealis near Vík, exploring the Katla Ice Cave, spotting harp seals along the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, and walking the black sands of Reynisfjara Beach. I can’t wait to go back! I feel like we’ve only just scratched the surface.

Where do you see your business one year from now?

A year from now, I see my business growing in both scale and intention. I aim to work more exclusively with high-value clients who appreciate personalized service and deepen my focus on luxury and custom travel planning, especially for families and multi-generational groups.

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

In the first couple of years in the industry, I focused heavily on learning – everything from processes and systems to destinations, suppliers, and specialties. What I’ve come to realize is that learning in this business is a constant. So while it’s not one single new skill, I’ve developed the mindset of being a continual learner, always aiming to stay current and evolving with the industry. 

I'm also proud to say I recently managed to travel with only a capsule wardrobe! Yes, this may be a skill that seasoned advisors mastered long ago, but for me, it was an achievement. On my last two Europe trips (the Azores and a river cruise), I travelled with only a backpack and a small roller – and I didn't even need to do laundry. New level unlocked!

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

The rise of technology is amazing, but I think there’s too much emphasis on automation and not enough on personalized service. I believe technology should enhance, not replace, the human connection that makes travel planning so special. That said, our industry’s infrastructure still has notable gaps. I’d love to see better, more integrated systems that empower advisors and deliver an even better client experience.

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

The real key is listening, not just booking. When you understand what someone really wants out of a trip, you can craft something that feels tailor-made, even if it isn't. That kind of care builds loyalty and long-term success.

What is your motto?

Aside from “see it all?” Play the long game: relationships over transactions (with clients and industry partners).

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

t’s been said countless times, but it bears repeating: value your time, because no one else will. If you’re investing effort into something that takes away from your free time, or your family, make sure you’re properly compensated for it.

Where are you travelling next?

Next up: the Mediterranean! I’ll be travelling to Spain, France, and Italy. I can’t wait for the adventure and to bring back new ideas and inspiration for my clients.

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