Monday Minute: Nicola Radde of 20 Knots - TravelOnly

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: Nicola Radde

Name of business: 20 Knots - TravelOnly

Where do you live?

I call Mississauga, Ontario, home, although my heart has always had a little wanderlust built in. Growing up along the Baltic coast in Germany, I was surrounded by water, sailing, swimming and exploring. Perhaps it was inevitable that one day I would find my way into the travel industry!

How long have you been a travel advisor?

Almost 20 years! My journey began in 2007 at one of the largest Canadian retail travel companies, and in 2013, I joined TravelOnly, a wonderful Canadian family-owned travel agency celebrating its 50th anniversary. Over the years, I have had the privilege of helping many travellers turn their dream vacations into unforgettable memories.

What is your specialty? 

My passion is river cruising and luxury ocean cruising, especially journeys that combine incredible destinations with exceptional food, wine, culture and experiences. I love helping travellers discover Europe’s legendary rivers, such as the Rhine, Moselle, Danube and Douro, as well as ocean adventures to places like Alaska, Antarctica and Tahiti.

For me, travel is not just about where you go; it is about what you taste, who you meet and the stories you bring home.

What inspired you to become a travel advisor?

I have always been fascinated by the world and the stories behind different cultures. My professional background was in export and commercial insurance, and although I enjoyed my career, I realized I wanted to do something that connected me more closely with people and my love of travel.

I still remember the moment I realized travel could become a career. I thought, “Why not help people experience the world while doing what I love?” Almost 20 years later, I still get excited every time a client books a new adventure.

What’s the first trip you ever took?

My earliest travel memories are from growing up in Germany and exploring the Baltic coast. Those childhood experiences of being near the water, sailing, and discovering new places created my lifelong love of travel.

What travel trends are you seeing these days?

Travellers are looking for more meaningful experiences. They don’t just want to check destinations off a list; they want to connect with them.

I am seeing tremendous interest in river cruising because it offers a blend of comfort, culture and exploration. Guests can unpack once, wake up in beautiful destinations, enjoy locally inspired cuisine and wine and immerse themselves in the history and traditions of each region.

Food and wine travel is also incredibly popular. More travellers are asking, “Where can I eat? What can I taste? Who can I meet?” They want authentic experiences, including visiting wineries, meeting local producers, taking cooking classes and discovering hidden gems beyond the typical tourist path.

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

One of my proudest moments was creating and hosting a wine-themed river cruise with a Niagara winemaker and their wine club members. We started as a group of strangers, but by the end of the journey, we had become friends.

That experience reminded me that travel is about connection. Since then, several guests from that original group have continued to travel with me on river cruises, luxury ocean cruises and new adventures around the world. Seeing those relationships grow has been incredibly rewarding.

What’s the most memorable trip you ever took? 

It is difficult to choose just one! My travels through Europe always hold a special place in my heart because they combine my love of history, culture, food and wine.

One of the most meaningful experiences was exploring the Mekong with AmaWaterways. The opportunity to experience Vietnam and Cambodia, from vibrant cities and incredible cuisine to ancient temples and local communities, was truly unforgettable. It reminded me how travel can open our eyes, challenge our perspectives and create lasting memories.

Where do you see your business one year from now? What are your future goals?

My goal is to continue growing 20 Knots as a trusted luxury cruise specialist, focusing on curated journeys for travellers who appreciate exceptional experiences.

I want to inspire more people to discover the world through food, wine, culture and immersive travel. Whether it is a river cruise through Europe, an expedition adventure or a luxury ocean voyage, I want my clients to feel that every journey has been thoughtfully planned just for them.

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

I am always learning! Recently, I have been focusing even more on digital marketing and storytelling, sharing the emotions behind travel rather than just the itinerary details. A great journey starts long before you step on board.

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

I would love for more people to understand the value of working with a professional travel advisor. In today’s world, information is everywhere, but expertise, personal relationships and someone who truly understands your travel style are priceless.

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

Listen first, sell second. The best travel experiences come from understanding what truly matters to your clients. It is about building trust, keeping promises, and caring about the journey as much as the destination.

What is your motto?

“Travel is easy to book; harder to design well.”

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

Be authentic. Build relationships, share your passion and never stop learning. People don’t just book travel; they book confidence, expertise and someone they trust.

Where are you travelling next?

Next, I’m hosting a river cruise on the Danube to show my clients the magic of the European Christmas season. After that, I’ll host another wine cruise along the Moselle, followed by the Douro and an Oceania cruise in January 2028.

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