Monday Minute: Senta Marsolais of Travel Elite

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: Senta Marsolais

Business: Travel Elite (powered by Centre Holidays)

Where do you live? Cornwall, ON

How long have you been a travel advisor? 25 Years

What is your specialty? Luxury worldwide travel

What inspired you to become a travel advisor?

Beginning my travel career in the U.K. as a foreign exchange advisor within a high street travel agency, I would listen to the advisors on the desk and dream of being able to chat to clients about more than just currency. Seeing the clients’ excitement, and the variety of work the agents had from day to day, inspired me to become an advisor myself.

What’s the first trip you ever took?

The first trip I ever took at seven years old was to Walt Disney World in Florida. Having an Italian father and British mother made us very fortunate. I have been exposed to travel all of my life. In the fifth grade, we spent one month in Italy, and as a young teenager, I travelled to England. After high school I relocated to the UK permanently and that really opened up all of Europe, which I have travelled extensively over the years.

What travel trends are you seeing these days?

These days I am seeing that clients are wanting more choice than ever before. I have really found over the past year a surge of interest in more "far and away" destinations and experiences, such as river cruising, yachting experiences, and more specifically, "cultural enrichment" with tours involving historical landmarks and authentic connection with locals.

As a whole, it is amazing how my clients are starting to travel in small to large groups, rather than as couples. It is very uplifting from my perspective as a travel designer to see clients sharing experiences with their friends and family more and more.

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

I take an enormous amount of pride in all of the work I do, and am always touched at the loyalty and support my clients have shown in return. Having built some wonderful relationships with my clients over the years, I have to say the travel arrangements I am most proud of are the ones that involve healing. One example being a 56-night cruise booked for a client so that she could visit all of the spots her late husband loved.

What’s the most memorable trip you ever took?

My most memorable trip was to Gambia in 2006. It was awe inspiring to visit Africa. The hospitality of the local people was quite overwhelming and very humbling. I can remember having my palm read in the middle of the Makasutu Forest and having that feeling of "I cannot believe I am standing here.” That is exactly the feeling I strive to achieve for all of my clients.

Where do you see your business one year from now?

Two years ago, I opened a branch office in Cornwall with the goal being to create something different for our clients. An agency where, from the moment they walk in, they feel as though their travels have begun. A year from now, I see the business being the community "go to" agency for the very best in personal service. My goals for the future are to share everything I have learned over the past two and a half decades with my team to continue bringing new and exciting experiences to our wonderful clients.

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

I have recently learned to use some new digital marketing tools, which I consider a great new skill (especially at my age!)

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

I think partnerships are very important in order for the clients to always receive a seamless experience. I am not sure I would change anything, but rather highlight the importance of continued partnerships between agents and wholesalers to ensure this is always the case.

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

Doing what you love and loving what you do!

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

Have fun! Get to know your clients – really get to know them. Reach out to our industry partners and forge relationships where you can receive support and professional development to take your career from strength to strength!

Where are you travelling next?

Ohh, so much travelling to do! Next on the list is a cruise through the Caribbean: Bahamas, Jamaica, Grand Cayman and Cozumel!

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