The challenge for the industry is….keeping pace with the change in travel market dynamics to remain relevant. Agent service and advice will always be important. How we access supply has and will continue to change. Technology developments and the Internet are not enemies, they are ongoing critical tools in servicing the client’s needs.
The things I like about my job are….no two days are the same at Expedia. I love developing new products and watching them grow in the marketplace.
And the frustrations….no real frustrations. I’m a big believer in the old saying “everything is possible and the Impossible takes a little longer.”
If I didn’t work in travel I would be a….traveller. I can’t imagine working in another industry; my passion is travelling so if I’m not working in travel, I’ll be travelling.
Qantas or Virgin?….either/or.
My proudest moment was….personally, watching my kids grow up and starting careers of their own. Professionally it’s still happening, building and developing the Expedia TAAP in ANZ into the broad market success it has become.
The naughtiest thing I ever did was….probably happened on tour. I started my career as a tour guide in Europe. What happens on tour stays on tour…
I try to relax by…on the beach or playing a round of golf.
The last time I feared for my life….flying on an airline that doesn’t have a great safety record, we flew through a huge storm and hit an air pocket. We dropped for what seemed minutes with the engines screaming until finally we hit some real air and gradually regained altitude.
If I can, I always try to avoid….flying that airline above.
I really wish I had….nothing more, I’m very lucky and happy.
The best advice I’ve ever received was….not advice but some wisdom. Just be yourself and be proud of who you are.
I don’t understand why….people see race and religion before they see the individuals and humanity we all share.
My greatest weakness is….I could probably be more patient.
And my greatest strength….tenacity and flexibility. If it doesn’t work, work out how to make it work and do it.
If I was prime minister I would…day one, I would pass a law to improve government investment in Tourism. Tourism is a far greater investment in Australia’s sustainable future than digging holes in the ground. Day two, Resign. Are you kidding? I wouldn’t want to be a Politician for anything.
If I won $1 million on the lottery I would….be spinning the atlas looking for my next travel destination.
If I could be someone else for one day I would be….just for one day, I’d like to have a woman’s perspective. One wife, two sisters, four daughters, 10 nieces and love them as I do, I have no idea how women think the things they think.
I’ve always wanted to travel to….South America.
My favourite holiday was….Turkey. The history, the food, the countryside and the islands. It’s absolutely fascinating and I’ll be back.
