Monday Minute: TTAND's Joanne Moore

The 'Monday Minute' is a new 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: Joanne Moore

Company: The Travel Agent Next Door (branded as Passionate Travel)

Location: Tillsonburg, Ontario

How long have you been a travel agent: Five years

What is your specialty? I specialize in various types of travel including groups, river and ocean cruising, and customizing Europe and unique locations.

What do you love most about being a travel agent?

I love to free clients of any stress related to planning travel and making their vacation dream a reality. All travel arrangements are customized with passion and dedication as I take pride in looking after my clients travel plans. I am also incredibly grateful for all the referrals I receive.

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

A common trend I've recently noticed are last minute bookings as well as travellers requesting more unique experiences rather than all-inclusive vacations. Fulfilling bucket list dream vacations and once in a lifetime experiences including new countries and cultures is becoming very popular.

Over the years, how have you had to adapt to changes taking place in the industry?

I did not experience the mid 1990's competition from the first online travel booking sites but still feel the effects of the online competition. By visiting and developing knowledge of destinations and building strong relationships with vendors and our BDM's (Business Development Managers) I have been able to create and sustain stable relationships with my clients who depend on me for my expertise.

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

I am most proud of an itinerary I put together for a 13-night tour of Italy. The research and planning was intense but I love a challenge! Everything went just as planned from booking the flights, rail, accommodations, tours, and ferries to and from the island of Capri. Everything fell into place with extremely happy travellers.

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

My advice to other travel agents is to gain the resources and knowledge to always be on top of changing trends, be transparent and empathetic with your clients in situations where their travel plans are disrupted or something goes awry and never take criticism personally.

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