Monday Minute: Debbie Marcotte of Uniglobe Adventure House Travel

The 'Monday Minute' is a weekly feature at PAX dedicated to highlighting the movers, shakers, leaders and rule-breakers in Canada's travel agent community. Wanna be profiled? Wanna nominate someone? Email newsroom@paxglobalmedia.com! 

Name: Debbie Marcotte

Company: Uniglobe Adventure House Travel

Where do you live? Ontario (but born in Montreal)

How long have you been a travel agent? Almost 40 years

What is your specialty? 

I would say the Caribbean and river cruises. However, over the years, I have been a Jack or Jill of all trades. I have been in corporate, vacation and ran an office at one time for eight years and all else in between

What do you love most about being a travel agent?  

I love the interaction with clients, especially the ones who have been loyal for many years. I love getting to know them and hearing happy travellers share their stories. 

What's one travel trend you've noticed as of late?  

Solo travellers, foodies and discovering new niches.  I love that Sir Richard Branson has come out with something new and exciting, Lady Scarlet.

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

I have so many. It's hard to choose just one. I would say a Cunard World Voyage for my lovely repeat and loyal clients. 

What's your number one piece of advice to other travel agents? 

I feel my number one piece of advice is to not be afraid to call your clients after they return. In fact, I call some of them before their trip as well.  I do call the odd client for air-only but mostly about vacations.  I am not afraid to hear the good, the bad and the ugly. It's what makes us valuable and shows we care. I will look into anything that my clients feel may not have been right about their trip until I get an answer. It may take five minutes or five months. It's well worth it. 

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