Monday Minute: Sharon Bizouati of YYZ Travel

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: Sharon Bizouati

Name of business: YYZ Travel

Where do you live? Thornhill, ON

How long have you been a travel advisor? 24 years

What is your specialty?

My specialty is creating unforgettable cruise and land travel experiences. I sell cruises to destinations around the world and have extensive knowledge of the cruise industry. In addition to cruises, I specialize in designing customized land vacations. Whether clients are looking for a fully personalized itinerary or a package from trusted travel suppliers, I can create the perfect journey to suit their interests, budget and travel style.

What inspired you to become a travel advisor?

My love of travel and adventure. I also wanted a new career after retiring from the health care industry.

What’s the first trip you ever took?

My first trip abroad was to London, England, and it was also my first time flying on an aeroplane. I was amazed to see all the famous landmarks and tourist attractions I had only read about. One of my favourite memories was visiting Carnaby Street, where I bought Sgt. Pepper’s Lonely Hearts Club Band by The Beatles, an album I still treasure today. London has remained one of my favourite destinations, and I have been fortunate to return many times over the years. Each visit brings back wonderful memories of that unforgettable first adventure.

What travel trends are you seeing these days?

My seasoned travellers know they need to book well in advance to get what they want. Clients are also thinking more carefully about what they receive for their money and are becoming more selective. My busy clients are taking quick getaways more often. For example, they may take a three- to five-day luxury escape as well as one big annual trip.

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

I planned a land tour in Italy for clients who were taking their granddaughter on a trip to celebrate her high school graduation. The trip had to be carefully planned to accommodate each traveller’s needs. The grandfather wanted to stay at the finest properties and dine at Michelin-starred restaurants. The grandmother wanted to visit art galleries and historical landmarks, while the granddaughter wanted to take cooking classes and shop at funky stores. Everything went off without a hitch, and they had the most memorable trip.

What’s the most memorable trip you ever took?

Ever since I saw the movie Only You, I've wanted to visit Positano, Italy. All my friends and family knew my dream was to be there for my 50th birthday, sitting at a café on the beach and drinking a latte. That dream came true during a Mediterranean cruise I took for my 50th birthday. I went on a two-hour excursion to Positano and was able to experience the moment I had always imagined. It was a short stay, but so worth it!

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

One year from now, I still see myself making people’s travel dreams come true. I love attending travel events to keep up with the latest trends and discover new opportunities that I can bring back to my clients.

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

One new skill I have developed is using AI tools such as ChatGPT to stay on top of trends and provide clients with faster, more detailed recommendations without sacrificing the personal touch.

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

I would like suppliers to simplify their terms and conditions. There are so many options and variables today that the information can be overwhelming for clients.

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

The secret to success in the travel agency business is building strong relationships through expertise and delivering a level of personalized service that clients cannot replicate on their own.

What is your motto?

I plan every trip as though I were going on it myself.

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

Become a trusted advisor by offering expertise, honest recommendations and a level of service clients cannot get from online booking engines or big box suppliers.

Where are you travelling next?

I am attending Virtuoso Travel Week in Las Vegas for the first time this August. Then, at the end of October, I will be taking my first transatlantic cruise!

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