Monday Minute: Susan Tuckey of Penguins2PolarBears

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: Susan Tuckey

Business: Penguins2PolarBears

Where do you live?

I live in the heart of downtown Toronto, where I soak in the energy of the city lights every day.

How long have you been a travel advisor?

I’ve been a travel advisor for eight years, but my love for travel started long before that. Having circled the globe more than ten times, I turned my passion into a business to help others experience the magic of travel.

What is your specialty?

I specialize in crafting customized independent journeys, adventure travel—particularly small-ship expeditions and small-group tours—and unique cultural immersions. Whether it’s a safari in Africa, a polar expedition, or an off-the-beaten-path foodie tour in Southeast Asia, I love curating unforgettable experiences that go beyond the ordinary.

What inspired you to become a travel advisor?

My own travels have been life-changing, and I wanted to help others experience that same sense of discovery. I love the challenge of designing personalized itineraries that go beyond the typical tourist experience. Seeing my clients return with incredible stories and a newfound love for travel fuels my passion for this industry.

What’s the first trip you ever took?

My first big adventure was to India in my late teens, and it completely changed the way I saw the world. The vibrant culture, the bold flavours, and the sheer energy of the country were both overwhelming and exhilarating. What struck me most was the resilience and joy of people who had far less than we do yet seemed far more grounded. That journey sparked a lifelong love for travel and a deep appreciation for different ways of life.

What travel trends are you seeing these days?

Travellers are seeking more immersive and sustainable experiences. Solo travel—especially among women—is booming, and destinations like Japan, New Zealand, and South Africa are in high demand. "Slow travel" is also on the rise, with people choosing to stay longer in one place to truly absorb the local culture. Wellness retreats and multi-generational trips are growing too, as families prioritize meaningful experiences and making up for lost time together.

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

One of my favourite bookings was for a newly-retired couple who embarked on an epic three-month journey. They spent a month exploring New Zealand’s breathtaking landscapes, another month immersing themselves in Australia’s diverse regions, and made unforgettable stops in Hawaii, Japan, Singapore, Dubai, Istanbul, and Lisbon along the way. Designing such a seamless and enriching itinerary was both complex and rewarding, but their excitement and gratitude made it all worthwhile.

What’s the most memorable trip you ever took?

It’s hard to choose between two life-changing adventures. One was a one-month road trip through New Zealand in a camper van, giving me the freedom to explore stunning landscapes at my own pace.

The other was a three-week expedition to Antarctica, including the Falkland Islands, South Georgia, and the Antarctic Peninsula. Braving the infamous "Drake Shake" on the way back to Ushuaia was an experience in itself!

Both trips offered raw, untamed beauty and a deep connection to nature that I’ll never forget. Seeing orangutans in Borneo, Indonesia, from a traditional Klotok boat and witnessing the sunrise over Borobudur were two of the most deeply moving experiences of my travels.

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

I’ve been honing my social media marketing skills since COVID, using that time to rebrand and focus on more experiential travel. More recently, I’ve learned to leverage partnerships with experts who have deep local knowledge of the destinations my clients want to explore. The places I book now require that level of insight—from securing the perfect accommodations to arranging seamless local tours, transfers, and pricing agreements with trusted suppliers. This ensures my clients not only have an incredible experience but also get the best value for their journey.

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

I’d love to see more transparency in pricing and commission structures. Travel advisors do a tremendous amount of behind-the-scenes work, and it’s important for clients to understand the value we bring to their trips. I also wish more travellers would embrace sustainable travel—choosing experiences that are not only fulfilling for them but also beneficial to the destinations they visit.

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

Building genuine relationships. This business isn’t just about booking trips—it’s about understanding people’s dreams, exceeding expectations, and creating experiences that leave a lasting impact. The best travel advisors don’t just sell travel; they curate journeys that change lives.

What is your motto?

"Travel is the only thing you buy that makes you richer."

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

Never stop learning and travelling! The travel industry is constantly evolving, and staying informed and experiencing new destinations, emerging trends, and industry shifts is key to staying ahead. And always go the extra mile for your clients—it pays off in loyalty and referrals.

Where are you travelling next?

After spending ten days in Beaune, France in April and trekking with gorillas in Uganda in May, my next adventures include Sicily, Greece, Crete, the Northwest Passage, Spain, and Switzerland. There’s always another journey waiting!

Don't miss a single travel story: subscribe to PAX today!  Click here to follow PAX on Facebook.