Who is this week's top agent?

WANTED: A SNOWBOARDING HOLIDAY TO CANADA
AGENCIES: WANTIRNA, VICTORIA
Mystery Shopper and her partner would like to visit Canada for a snowboarding holiday. While they would like to spend most of their time in the ski fields at Whistler, they would like to stop over in Vancouver to see some of the sights. They are interested in an all-inclusive package and welcome any other information, particularly regarding activities near Whistler. They want to stay for 14 days and have a budget of $10,000 in total.
FIRST PLACE: 96% Helen Williams, Escape Travel, Knox Shopping Centre, Wantirna, Vic
I was greeted by Helen as soon as I entered and was offered assistance. I explained that my partner and I were interested in a snowboarding holiday in Canada, stating that we wanted to spend most of the time in Whistler with a few days in Vancouver. Helen asked many questions as she collected information for my quote. This was done in a friendly and efficient manner. I was asked my budget and if I had obtained any other quotes. Helen then looked for flight options and while searching made conversation, noting that she had been to Canada once before herself and loved it. Air Canada was suggested as we could fly from Sydney direct to Canada. Helen suggested three days in Vancouver at the start and one day at the end of the trip before flying home. I was then handed the Skimax Canada, USA and Japan brochure as well as Infinity Holidays' Canada brochure and together we chose a couple of options for accommodation at both locations. As Helen had visited Vancouver, she was able to highlight the best places to stay and make suggestions about what places to see. I was asked if we needed to hire ski gear and also about insurance that included ski cover before she called an external person to put together a package for me which took five minutes. Helen then highlighted the options we had chosen and asked if I wanted to book today. I said that I needed to talk to my partner first, which she accepted and then printed out the quote for me to take. As the quote was under budget she also suggested that I could upgrade to better accommodation options if I wanted to. This was an excellent consultation.
How long have you worked as a travel agent? Seven months.
What's your favourite destination to sell and why? The US – everyone that comes back has a new and exciting story to share.
If you could book yourself a holiday right now (money is no object) where would it be and why? I would love to go to Antarctica.
What destination do you sell the most of? The US and Thailand.
What was the last famil you went on? I went on an MSC cruise through the Mediterranean in May.
What's the most embarrassing thing that's happened to you while travelling? On my first holiday alone I left my passport in the X-ray machine. All this was before I'd even left Australia.
Which four famous people (dead or alive) would you invite to a dinner party? Michael Buble, Bill Gates and George Clooney. Everyone needs a bit of music, money and good looks around them. (Maths was never my strong suit, but that looks like only three people – Ed.)
Who is your dream travel partner? Anyone who can take me on their private jet.
What is the strangest place you have ever travelled to? Egypt. It was a very big culture shock and there was a lot to adjust to, but it was amazing to see all the sites.
If you were stranded on a desert island and only allowed one item, what would it be? Sunscreen.
SECOND PLACE: 71% Harvey World Travel, Knox Shopping Centre, Wantirna, Vic
I was greeted immediately on entering the agency in a polite manner. I explained that I was planning snowboarding trip to Canada and that I wanted to go to Whistler for the snowboarding and to have four days sightseeing in Vancouver. I was asked if I needed to hire ski gear which I declined. The agent was full of praise for Whistler, describing it as absolutely magnificent. Airline preferences were discussed and the agent suggested that Air New Zealand was a good, affordable option. The agent then discussed accommodation choices from a Harvey's Choice Canada and Alaska brochure they had in front of them, although I was not given a copy to look at. Some time was spent looking through accommodation options in the brochure. A little later the agent commented that the system wouldn't process the booking inquiry for them and they had to make a call to an external person to assist. Soon after I was asked for my contact details and they promised to email me the completed quote. An emailed quote came through later that day, however no follow up call or email was received.
THIRD PLACE 70%: Flight Centre, Knox Shopping Centre, Wantirna, Vic
In just under a minute I was greeted with a friendly smile and offered assistance. I explained that I wanted to take a snowboarding holiday in Canada. The agent then asked a series of questions to better understand my requirements. They were very thorough, even asking if we were bringing our own ski equipment. Airline preferences were discussed and the agent suggested perhaps starting the trip in Vancouver. I was surprised, however, that I was not offered any brochures at all while we spoke The agent called the wholesaler stating that they would be able to package up some options for me. For an extended period they were kept on hold, but the agent kept up a lively conversation with me. They also used the time to ask what standard of accommodation we wanted and if there were any particular facilities we needed. I received a very friendly email later that day which included the quote.
TOP TIPS TO SELL CANADA
If your client's focus is on snowboarding, suggest a visit to Whistler Blackcomb, which offers a range of packages and snowboard lessons for beginners. For the more experienced and adventurous snowboarder, activities like the Whistler Heli-Skiing and Boarding are also available.
If your client is keen for an adventure then suggest they look no further than the Ziptrek Tour. With three different tours to choose from, Bear, Eagle and Mammoth, this aerial adventure is an exhilarating way to see the ancient and beautiful temperate rainforests of Whistler.
Creative Holidays' Vancouver Highlights package is the perfect way to see the sights of Vancouver when working within a limited time frame. Priced at $128, the package includes two nights' accommodation and tickets for the Vancouver Trolley Hop On Hop Off City Tour. It features stops at Stanley Park, Historic Gastown, English Bay, Granville Island, Robson Street, Chinatown and Canada Place.
Although a popular sport, skiing and snowboarding can be a hazardous activity. Ensure your client has adequate travel insurance organised to ensure a fun and safe holiday.
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
agenciesLatest News

Cathay Pacific partners with Mott 32 for fine dining at Hong Kong Airport
It certainly beats waiting for our flight at the airport's Burger King.

Japan National Tourism Organization hosts agency events in Perth and Sydney
Trust us, Aussies don't need even more reasons to visit Japan. We're already sold!

Riverside Luxury Cruises names Susie Coughlin as ANZ sales and marketing lead
We wonder if Susie ever imagined how big the river cruise market would get when she started out in the industry.

Cathay Pacific offers rugby fans the chance to fly to Hong Kong
Non rugby fans are also open to being flown to Hong Kong. Just putting it out there...

Ski expert Gary Clark on the real reason everybody is obsessed with ice baths
We all know that the real reason is that it looks good on Instagram.

Marriott International grows Asia Pacific portfolio by 12% with focus on midscale and luxury
The APAC luxury market shows no sign of slowing down.

APT unveils brand-new tour including a visit to remote British island
Forget Big Ben, be the envy of your pals with a trip to places they certainly wouldn't have been.

Air New Zealand addresses engine shortage concerns with aircraft leasing plan
If you're looking for stocks to invest in, aircraft manufacturing looks like a good bet.

Ibis partners with Globetrender to reveal 25 ways Gen Y and Z will travel in 2025
If you can complete the list you'll be going at a rate of one trip every two weeks, and we'd be pretty envious!

Australia bags $1 billion from international business events following post-Covid push
Move over London, New York. The future of business is looking decidedly Aussie.

Virgin Australia wins World’s Best Cabin Crew Award for seventh year running
It's always relaxing to hear the Australian accent on the way home from your trip. It's even better on Virgin!

TravHost launches expert hosting service to transform industry famils
TravHost offers a pioneering service bridging the gap between media professionals, travel agents and tourism organisations, addressing the demand for exceptional famil hosts. Founded by seasoned travel media professionals Fiona Harper and Carolyne Jasinski, TravHost is poised to revolutionise the way tourism organisations and travel companies approach famils. With decades of experience in tourism and […]

Book big and bag a spot of the TTC Tour Brand’s Top Achievers’ Famil
TTC Tour Brands’ Top Achievers Famil incentive is back, rewarding top-selling agents with the chance to embark on an unforgettable trip to a destination that remains a secret – for now. Agents who have sold any Luxury Gold, Insight Vacations, Trafalgar, Costsaver and Contiki, from 1 December 2024 to 14 March 2025, go into the […]

New Zealand International Convention Centre to open in February 2026
The New Zealand International Convention Centre (NZICC) has announced it is opening its doors to New Zealand and world conferences and events in February 2026. The long-awaited NZICC is set to transform New Zealand’s conference and events industry, boosting visitation and the wider economy with its world-class facilities. Located in the heart of Auckland’s CBD, […]

AmaWaterways invites AU/NZ travel trade to An Evening with AmaWaterways events
AmaWaterways has announced the dates of its upcoming An Evening with AmaWaterways events for travel advisors, just over a year after it entered the Australian and New Zealand markets. Dedicated to travel advisors, the events will be held in six cities and will be hosted by AmaWaterways’ regional sales managers, plus feature a presentation from […]

Mooloolaba cruise season boosts Sunshine Coast tourism and trade
Mooloolaba is set to welcome a series of cruise ships through February and March 2025, significantly boosting local businesses and tourism to the Sunshine Coast. Their arrival is expected to create a vibrant atmosphere and provide a substantial economic uplift to the region. Viking Sky kicks off the season on Sunday 8 February, with 930 […]

Little Pete Brewing opens first of its kind open-air bar
Little Pete Brewing has opened a new open-air bar at 543 Step Rd, Langhorne Creek, a must-visit South Australia destination for a drink with a view. The first-of-its-kind open-air bar sits on 8ha, surrounded by vineyards and paddocks, with the Bremer River flowing nearby and framed by majestic ancient river red gums. “We always felt […]

CENTREPIECE is set to make a splash at AIME 2025
CENTREPIECE is set to make a splash at AIME 2025 with a one-of-a-kind activation that showcases their world-class event capabilities to inspire event planners and decision-makers. CENTREPIECE is located in the heart of Melbourne & Olympic Parks, Victoria’s epicentre for live sports and entertainment and home to world-renowned venues including Rod Laver Arena, AAMI Park, […]

NYC Tourism + Conventions announces two exciting new events
NYC Tourism + Conventions has announced ‘NYC Off-Broadway Week 2025’ and ‘Value Family Activities’ events lined up for this year. NYC Off-Broadway Week 2025 2-for-1 ticket sales for this event have begun with this season’s program featuring 29 Off-Broadway performances, including 18 new participants. The twice-yearly program runs from 17 February through 9 March with […]

Engine delays plaguing Air New Zealand as carrier set to suspend Incheon-Auckland route
We never liked being at the back of the queue, and this is a big one to jump.

Australia’s aviation future takes flight: An exclusive with Simon Westaway
As you walk through your next Australian airport, from ABX to YWYY, remember this face, he may be there.

Destination Vancouver brings World Chef Exchange event to Sydney
We are sure that with Mark Best in the kitchen, there was more on offer than poutine and fries.

Jeju wins bid to host 2028 Asia-Pacific Microscopy Conference
The Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) has successfully secured the 14th Asia-Pacific Microscopy Conference (APMC14) for Jeju in November 2028. This was achieved in partnership with the Korean Society of Microscopy, Jeju Special Self-Governing Province, Jeju Convention Bureau, and Jeju International Convention Center. Korea was selected as the final host after strong competition at the 13th […]

Envoyage-hosted National Travel Group joins Luxury Travel Collection
As this market continues to grow, make sure you get along to our own Travel Weekly Luxury Roadshow.

Airports Council International labels Newcastle Airport most sustainable in Australia
Newcastle says it will be the green gateway into Australia, maybe the football team needs some new colours to match.

Vintage Rail Journeys’ unique Bathurst Race’N Rail packages now on sale
You might not get there as fast but you are guaranteed to save on fuel on the way there.

Patricia Piccinini’s skywhales return to tour Australia
These freaked us out when we first saw them, almost as bad as the contents of the fridge after we returned from leave.

David Fraser returns to Accor as VP of operations for Sofitel Pacific
We hope Monsieur Fraser is catching up on his French as he will no doubt be dealing with HQ.

A foodie adventure at Disneyland Resort in California: Snack Attack on the Go
As far as levels of cuteness go, Disneyland Resort's Mickey beignets take the cake or should that be churros.

Minor Hotels unveils Anantara Jewel Bagh Jaipur, its first property in India
Treated like a Raj for a few hundred a night, we like the sound of that. Just don't mention the cricket.

Four Seasons announces new luxury resort and private residences in UAE
These resorts are built on reclaimed land made with sand, fortunately there is plenty of it.

Oceania Cruises sets new standard for onboard dining: one chef for every 10 guests
Oceania Cruises, renowned for The Finest Cuisine at Sea, has set a new standard for onboard dining with an exquisite new menu evolution in The Grand Dining Room. Launching on its newest 1,200-guest ship, Allura, in July 2025, the reimagined menus introduce over 270 brand-new recipes, from curated Signature Eggs Benedict breakfast selection to a chic French […]

MSC Cruises announces MSC World Asia Webinar
Let's hope the words 'You are on mute' will never be uttered ever again.

Legendary Italian hotel, Il San Pietro di Positano, opens new clothing and accessories boutique
Anyone planning a trip to Italy this northern summer should leave room in their Louis Vuitton luggage.

AAT Kings’ NT boost with air credits
AAT Kings really dominates travel in the Top End and news like this only adds fuel to the fire.

Camino Women and Laos’ Khiri Travel announce new mountain trail for Australian women
Responsible tourism starts with one foot in front of the other. This trek sounds like there are a few more steps.