Warm, insightful, and purpose-driven, Yvette Thompson has been a trusted voice in the travel industry for nearly two decades. Now leading Sales & Marketing across Australia and New Zealand for Intrepid Travel , Yvette brings a rare blend of strategic thinking, creative energy, and a deep passion for people. Her path into travel began unexpectedly, with a winning story in a travel writing competition and evolved into a career built around connection, storytelling, and meaningful experiences. From her early days in GDS to her current role championing sustainable tourism and partnerships across ANZ, Yvette’s story is one of growth, purpose, and heart. We asked her a few questions to get to know the person behind the role. Can you start by introducing yourself? Tell us a bit about your background and your role in the travel industry. I’ve been in the travel industry for 18 years now, across two very different worlds—GDS and adventure travel. I started at Intrepid as a BDM and have worked my way through sales, marketing, partnerships and contracting roles. It’s been quite the ride! I’m originally from Sydney but made the move to Melbourne in 2017 and never looked back. I love the energy here—great events, gorgeous wineries, stunning hikes, and character-filled small towns just a short drive away. It also helps that most of my family eventually followed me down! Yvette Thompson leading Sales & Marketing across Australia and New Zealand for Intrepid Travel What inspired you to pursue a career in the travel industry, and what’s kept you passionate about it over the years? I was working in a big corporate company that I enjoyed, but I was hungry for something more aligned with my passions. Then fate stepped in—I entered a travel writing competition on a whim and ended up winning. The prize was $10,000 worth of travel! That prize sent me through Vietnam, Thailand, Dubai, France and Africa. It was that small group trip through Africa that really changed everything for me. A few months later, I found myself working at Intrepid Travel. Coincidentally, the person who hired me was also the person who had selected my story. What’s kept me in the industry all these years is the people—both the ones we work with and the ones we meet on the road. Travel is all about connection and seeing the world through different perspectives. And that’s exactly what Intrepid’s all about too. Purpose-led travel that has a positive impact. What’s the most memorable trip you’ve worked on, and what made it so special? Oh gosh, where to start? I think it would have to be my month in India with Intrepid in 2017. It was just incredible. The kaleidoscope of colours in the women’s saris, the aromas of street food and incense, the big smiles and warm hospitality—it all hits you at once. The streets come alive as the sun goes down, the architecture is incredible, and the wildlife parks allow you to escape the hustle and come close to tigers, elephants and other wild animals. I’ll never forget the cows calmly stopping traffic, the peacocks wandering old fortresses, the sunsets over the Ganges, the camel rides through the desert, the spicy curries, and the warm chais and chilled lassis. It’s a place full of contrasts and celebrations, where religion, culture and community blend in beautiful ways. India has a way of getting under your skin and into your heart. What’s one trend or innovation in the travel industry that you think travel agents should focus on in 2025? I talk about this a lot, but I really believe we all need to focus on the rise of sustainable and eco-friendly travel. Travellers are more conscious than ever about the environmental impact of their holidays, and they’re actively looking for more responsible ways to explore the world. New regulations are also coming in, so being across the laws and offering sustainable options isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s going to be essential for all of us. What’s a fun or surprising fact about you that not many people know? One of my favourite places in the world is France. In my early 20s, I lived there, splitting my time between ski seasons in the Alps and working on private yachts on the Mediterranean. Both were completely different experiences, but equally beautiful, impactful and unforgettable. Yvette’s career reminds us that sometimes, the most meaningful paths aren’t planned—they’re discovered. From a love of storytelling to a passion for sustainable travel, her journey reflects a deep belief in the power of purpose and people. We can’t wait to welcome Yvette to TADA 25 this October in Sydney. Be sure to connect, her story might just inspire the next chapter of yours.

David McMahon has seen the travel industry from every angle. He started behind a retail desk and now represents some of California’s most inspiring destinations as Senior Tourism Development Account Manager at Gate 7 . With over 22 years in the industry, David’s career spans iconic roles at Intrepid Travel, Tourism Fiji and Tourism Ireland. These days, he helps travel agents unlock the full potential of destinations like San Diego and Greater Palm Springs, always bringing a warm approach and deep local knowledge. We caught up with David to hear about his journey, the value of real connections, and why road trips might be the secret weapon for agents in 2025. Always up for a laugh, a story, or a new itinerary – David’s enthusiasm is infectious. Can you tell us a bit about your background? I’ve done a bit of everything. I started out as a travel agent, then moved into roles with Intrepid Travel, and later worked with Tourism Fiji and Tourism Ireland. Now, I’m with Gate 7, representing California. I genuinely love showing agents what San Diego and Greater Palm Springs have to offer. It’s an easy sell. What inspired you to get into travel and what’s kept you passionate? After living in London and Japan, I realised I loved travelling but missed Australia. Becoming a travel agent was a way to stay connected to the world while staying grounded at home. I’ve always had a simple rule – if I wouldn’t recommend something to a friend, I won’t sell it. That mindset has guided me through the years. What’s your most memorable trip? A Mega Fam in Southern California last year. We explored San Diego and Greater Palm Springs with a group of agents. I love seeing someone discover a place they hadn’t considered before, and then leave already planning their return. One trend travel agents should focus on in 2025? Road trips. They’re flexible, authentic and open the door to places you’d never find on a tour. Especially in California – the roads are scenic, the distances are easy, and you get to stop whenever something catches your eye. David’s career shows how staying true to your values and leaning into curiosity can lead to something pretty special. Whether helping agents discover new destinations or planning his next adventure, David brings insight, integrity and a sense of fun to everything he does. Smiles, sunshine, and standout conversations with David McMahon at TADA24.

Brad Brooks has lived and breathed travel for over two decades—starting from Sydney’s 5-star hotel lobbies to now championing industry partnerships at PassportCard Travel Insurance . Today, Brad is the Travel Industry Partnership Manager  at PassportCard, working closely with Australian travel agents to ensure they feel confident and supported when offering travel insurance to their clients. We caught up with Brad to hear more about his career journey, the lessons learned along the way, and why growing tomatoes might not be so different from growing industry partnerships. Can you tell us a bit about your background? I started my travel journey in 1999, working in Front Office roles across Sydney’s luxury hotels. After a few years overseas living and working in the UK, I came back to Australia and took a job as a retail travel agent—just as a stopgap while figuring out my next move. But I quickly fell in love with the fast-paced environment, the relationships, and the people. Many of the clients and suppliers I met back then are still close friends today. That early experience showed me how deeply personal and rewarding this industry can be. After some time in retail, I moved into corporate travel, where I spent 14 years with different TMCs. I worked across operations, training, and mostly Account Management—building and growing client relationships became a real passion. What made you decide to join PassportCard? After many years in corporate travel, I was ready to try something different—something that still connected me to the industry I love but challenged me to grow. PassportCard stood out because of its innovative approach to travel insurance and its focus on people-first service. It felt like a perfect fit. Six months in, I’m loving it—especially reconnecting with the retail travel community and helping agents bring added value to their clients. Pri Mills (TADA) visiting Brad at PassportCard’s Sydney offices What’s one travel memory that really stands out? Early in my retail travel days, I helped a young journalist plan an expedition to the North Pole. She needed to get to Svalbard in time to catch a rare Antonov flight to a temporary ice runway. It was one of the most complex bookings I’ve ever worked on—but after days of research, we made it happen. We celebrated with a drink after work, and we’ve remained good friends for over 20 years. That experience really cemented my love for the industry—the sense of adventure, problem-solving, and connection. And what about life outside of work? Gardening is my happy place. Growing my own veggies and cooking with them brings me a lot of joy. Some crops thrive, others don't—but that’s part of the experience. Nature teaches patience, persistence, and humility—qualities that have helped me both personally and professionally. Brad’s story is a great reminder that the best careers aren’t always carefully mapped out—they’re built one relationship, one leap of faith, and one unexpected opportunity at a time. Whether helping agents succeed or harvesting tomatoes in the backyard, Brad brings a sense of care, connection, and passion to everything he does. Brad with the PassportCard team at the CATO Christmas Lunch

Lisa Pagotto is not your average travel industry professional. With a career spanning retail travel agencies, wholesale product development, sales, marketing, and tour leading, Lisa has worn nearly every hat in the travel industry. Now, as the founder of Crooked Compass, she leverages her deep expertise to craft immersive, eye-opening travel experiences that shatter cultural stigmas and introduce travellers to hidden gems around the globe. Lisa recently shared her inspiring journey, perspectives on the future of travel, and a surprising personal tidbit that adds a delightful layer to her already captivating persona. Can you start by introducing yourself? Tell us a bit about your background and your role in the travel industry. I'm Lisa, and my career in travel spans over various industry sectors—beginning as a retail travel agent, then progressing into wholesale, product development, sales, marketing, and tour leading. Now, as founder of Crooked Compass and Crooked Compass by Air, my focus is on creating immersive, authentic travel experiences that challenge perceptions and promote deeper cultural understanding. Lisa Pagotto exploring off-the-beaten-path gems What inspired you to get into the travel industry, and what keeps your passion alive? Travel fascinated me from a young age, and my first significant exposure to a completely new culture was when I visited Tunisia at 21 with my Nana. Her annual visits and intriguing stories inspired me deeply, but I had hesitated to explore alone until she took me. This transformative journey ignited my desire to unveil the overlooked and underrepresented aspects of destinations worldwide. Knowing that travel can profoundly shift perspectives and connect people keeps my passion thriving. What was one travel experience that profoundly shaped you? At age 21, my Nana took me to Tunisia, a destination she'd frequented since my childhood. Experiencing it firsthand transformed my outlook. Everything from the bustling markets with vibrant street scenes, humorous and confronting visuals—from colourful, funny products to fresh, visceral local markets—sparked intense curiosity rather than apprehension. The rich street food encouraged me to embrace new flavours boldly. Those ten days forever reshaped how I viewed the world. Where do you think travel agents should focus their attention moving forward? Hyper-personalisation and adaptability are key. Travellers now expect tailored experiences that reflect their unique interests and preferences. The rapid pace of geopolitical changes and fluctuating travel conditions makes duty-of-care more crucial than ever. Agents need to anticipate and navigate these complexities expertly, crafting bespoke itineraries and leaning on specialist knowledge to guide travellers safely and meaningfully. What's a fun or surprising fact about you? I'm an absolute crazy cat lady! Wherever my travels take me, you'll find me befriending cats and kittens. Travel adventures are undoubtedly better with a feline companion along the way! Lisa's passion, foresight, and quirky personal charm remind us why meaningful travel experiences matter more than ever. In an evolving world, her vision encourages us to step outside the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary. Lisa Pagotto: Exploring with feline friends! 🐱🌍 Lisa's passion, foresight, and quirky personal charm remind us why meaningful travel experiences matter more than ever. In an evolving world, her vision encourages us to step outside the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary.

Andrea Friend, based in Cranbourne East, VIC, is living proof that it’s never too late to reinvent yourself. After more than a decade in banking, she took a leap into the world of travel—and hasn’t looked back since. Today, Andrea is a standout mobile travel agent known for her warmth, insight, and passion for helping clients turn dream trips into lifelong memories. Whether it’s cruising through Antarctica or exploring Europe’s historic gems, she’s all about creating travel experiences that truly matter. We caught up with Andrea to hear more about her journey, the trends she’s seeing, and the advice she’d give to anyone starting out in the industry. Making the magic happen behind the scenes of unforgettable itineraries. How did you get started in the travel industry, and what keeps you passionate about it? After a 15-year banking career in the UK, I knew I needed a change when I moved to Australia—something I could truly be passionate about. The travel industry has completely changed my life for the better. My love of travel started early. As a kid, I was obsessed with aeroplanes—I’d sit in my bedroom and watch flights taking off and landing at Birmingham Airport (I could see the runway from my window!). When I met my husband 34 years ago, we started travelling internationally and discovered a shared desire to explore as much of the world as possible. Now, I get to create those same magical, life-changing travel moments for my clients. Watching their travel obsessions grow—and knowing I’ve played a part in that journey—completely fulfils me. What’s a travel trend or destination that’s booming right now? Europe is always a favourite, and post-COVID, the demand is bigger than ever. People are craving culture, history, and variety. But what’s really taken off lately is Antarctica. It’s the ultimate bucket list destination, and clients are more determined than ever to experience it while they can. That “do it now” mindset is stronger than ever. If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring travel agents, what would it be? Find your niche and stick to it. You don’t have to be everything to everyone. Focus on the types of travel that truly light you up and let that passion lead the way. And always keep learning. The industry moves fast, and the more curious and informed you are, the more confident you’ll be—and the more value you’ll offer to your clients. What’s your favourite part of working with clients? The relationships. Some of my clients have become close friends, and I feel incredibly lucky to be part of their travel stories. It’s especially rewarding to see families grow and help the next generation plan their own adventures. What’s your go-to travel tip for clients? Be flexible. Not everything will go to plan, and that’s okay. Some of the most memorable moments happen when things take an unexpected turn. Keep an open mind and go with the flow. Andrea’s journey is a beautiful reminder that success in travel isn’t just about ticking destinations off a list—it’s about making every journey meaningful for the people you serve. Helping clients explore Europe, Antarctica, and beyond with care and creativity.

At TADA24, we were thrilled to celebrate some of the most inspiring professionals shaping the future of travel across Australia. Among them was Meaghan Wolf  from Wolf & Turner Travel Associates , who took home the Outstanding Polar Destination Achiever  award—not just in the individual category, but in luxury agency excellence  as well. Meaghan's journey into travel is as unique as the experiences she creates for her clients. With a background in events, she’s no stranger to complexity, detail, and high expectations. Her personal motto, “nothing is impossible,”  is more than just words—it’s how she approaches every itinerary. What’s the most unique or memorable trip you’ve ever planned for a client? "One of the most meaningful trips I’ve ever planned was for a dear long-time client who was travelling solo for the first time after the loss of his wife. It was a huge emotional step for him, and I knew how deeply personal this journey would be. Throughout the planning process, I became his anchor—providing reassurance, listening with empathy, and building confidence in each appointment. We made sure he had all the support he needed on the ground so he never felt alone. Watching him come back with a renewed spark, and knowing I had a valuable and important part in helping him take that brave step forward, reminded me exactly why I do what I do. It’s so much more than just booking travel—it’s about walking alongside people through life’s big moments." How did you get started in the travel industry, and what keeps you passionate about it? "I entered the travel industry just nine days after September 11, 2001—a moment when the world was holding its breath and travel felt uncertain. Some might have seen that as the worst time to begin, but for me, it was the start of something meaningful. Coming from a background in events, I was already passionate about creating experiences that connected people. Travel took that to a whole new level. Starting in such a turbulent time taught me resilience, adaptability, and just how vital travel is to the human spirit. Now, 24 years on, I still believe in the magic of what we do. Every itinerary is a new chance to inspire confidence, connection, and joy. And with my “nothing is impossible”  philosophy, I continue to find purpose in helping people see the world—even when it feels a little uncertain." Meaghan Wolf receiving her well-deserved TADA24 award for Outstanding Polar Destination Achiever. If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring travel agents, what would it be? "Treat every client the way you’d want your own grandmother to be treated—with genuine care, patience, and respect. That level of service never goes unnoticed. In this industry, your reputation is everything, and clients will always remember how you made them feel. Also, stay nimble. My background in events taught me how to think on my feet and find creative solutions when things don’t go to plan—skills that have been invaluable in travel. I always encourage advisors to ask the deeper questions— “If this were your only or last trip, what’s the one destination or experience that truly pulls at your heart?”  That’s where the magic begins. When you help a client uncover that kind of aspiration, you’re not just building an itinerary—you’re creating something deeply meaningful. This role isn’t about ticking boxes; it’s about understanding someone’s dreams, fears, and motivations, and guiding them with care and confidence. Stay nimble, stay curious, and never lose sight of the why behind the journey. That’s where the real impact lives." What’s the best travel tip you always share with your clients? "Always pack your essentials in your carry-on—medications, a change of clothes, chargers, and anything you can’t do without for 24 hours. It’s such a small habit, but it can completely change how you handle an unexpected delay or lost bag. But beyond the practical, I always remind my clients: embrace the unexpected . The detours, the delays, the unplanned discoveries—they often become the most meaningful memories. Travel isn’t just about the perfect photo or ticking boxes. It’s about leaning into the moment, even when it doesn’t go exactly to plan. A little patience, a flexible mindset, and a sense of humour go a long way." From life-changing solo trips to family reunions in Europe, Meaghan Wolf  does more than plan travel—she creates experiences that heal, connect, and inspire . Her resilience, insight, and unwavering belief that nothing is impossible  continue to elevate the standard for what great travel advising can be. We’re excited to see what’s next for Meaghan and the team at Wolf & Turner Travel Associates —and we hope to see them again at TADA25 ! Meaghan Wolf of Wolf & Turner Travel Associates — crafting travel with purpose and care.

Alice Ager is not your average travel industry leader. With over 15 years in travel—from the bustling hotel scene of Asia to the refined elegance of luxury cruising—Alice brings depth, charisma, and a human touch to every aspect of her work. Today, as Managing Director of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises in Australia and New Zealand, she’s steering the brand forward with heart, humour, and a deep love for transformational travel. We caught up with Alice to hear more about her journey, her family adventures in Egypt, and what trends she thinks will define travel in 2025. Can you start by introducing yourself? Tell us a bit about your background and your role in the travel industry. I’m Alice! I started in the travel industry 15 years ago in hotels across Asia and then moved into luxury cruising—10 years in total, from selling luxury ocean voyages with Regent Seven Seas to now heading up Uniworld’s river cruise offering across Australia and New Zealand. I currently lead our sales, marketing, and reservations teams here in ANZ. What inspired you to get into the travel industry, and what keeps your passion alive? It started with a new boyfriend (who’s now my husband!) telling me he was off to Africa for work—with British Airways. He casually mentioned he was “hosting a famil,” and I was immediately intrigued. All I wanted to know was: what’s a famil and how do I host one of those?!  Fifteen years on, I still love hosting famils and seeing agents experience the magic firsthand. What’s one travel experience that’s really stayed with you? Last Christmas, we took our teenage boys on Uniworld’s Splendours of the Nile  itinerary in Egypt, and it was unanimously voted our best family holiday ever. As a parent, it was a dream to travel without the stress of logistics—everything was seamlessly handled. But what made it extra special was what came after: we all became obsessed with ancient Egyptian history. We’re still following archaeological news together as a family! Just a few weeks ago, a new tomb was discovered in the Valley of the Kings—King Thutmose II. Our dinner table conversations have never been more exciting. Managing Director, Australia & NZ, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises Where do you think travel agents should focus their attention in 2025? I’ve got two suggestions. First, get to know the Genesys  marketing tool—it’s brilliant for sending automated and tailored EDMs to your clients. Second, make the most of ABC (Agent Bring Consumer)  events that cruise lines offer. These events are such a powerful sales tool and often under-utilised. At Uniworld, we call them Aperitivo with Uniworld —they’re relaxed, social, and super effective. uniworld.com/events What’s a fun or surprising fact about you? I’ve hosted more famils than I can count, but the buzz never fades. Every trip still feels like a fresh adventure, and I secretly judge destinations by how much fun they are to host! 😄 Alice’s infectious energy, insight into the luxury market, and down-to-earth love for storytelling make her a standout in the travel space. Whether she’s hosting agents, leading a team, or sailing the Nile with her kids, Alice reminds us that travel is at its best when it’s both seamless and full of soul. Alice Ager & Pri Mills catching up during #AIME25

At TADA24 in Melbourne, we had the pleasure of recognising some of the industry’s finest professionals, and one of them was Philip Clapé  from Holidays Beckon . Winner of the Outstanding Europe Destination Achiever award , Philip’s expertise in crafting unforgettable European travel experiences is truly inspiring. We recently caught up with him to learn more about his journey in travel—and hopefully, we’ll see him again at TADA 25! How Did You Get Started in the Travel Industry? From an early age, I knew I wanted to work in travel. While my career initially took a few detours—including a stint in finance—an opportunity in the airline industry helped me find my true calling. I began with TAA/Australian Airlines in Darwin, working in reservations and group travel, before moving into yield management, training, and system development. I was fortunate to be part of a team developing a groundbreaking revenue management system, which gave me a deep understanding of the strategic and analytical side of the industry. I also worked at Cairns International Airport , handling passenger check-in, baggage hall assistance, and boarding gate management. Later, I joined a hospitality management company , coordinating the flight booking operations to their resorts on the Great Barrier Reef. These experiences gave me a broad and practical view of the industry from the ground up. Later, after taking a redundancy when the airline merged with Qantas, I transitioned into Healthcare I.T., a field that pushed me in new ways. But my heart was always in travel, and after moving to Trinity Beach, I saw the perfect opportunity to return to my passion—this time on my own terms. With Holidays Beckon , I now bring my years of industry expertise into creating highly personalised, seamless travel experiences for my clients. Philip Clapé from Holidays Beckon — Winner of the Outstanding Europe Destination Achiever award at TADA24. Most Memorable Trip You’ve Planned? While I specialise in European destinations, one of the most rewarding trips I’ve ever planned was a bespoke South American adventure. My clients had meticulously researched their dream itinerary and needed an expert to bring it all together. From the Bolivian salt flats to Machu Picchu, Iguazu Falls, and Patagonia, I worked with a trusted supplier/destination expert who crafted  an extraordinary, fully tailored itinerary. Their journey even included the Belmond Hiram Bingham luxury train and a flyover of the Nazca Lines—experiences that took their trip from great to unforgettable. When they returned, they told me it wasn’t just a holiday—it was a life-changing experience. Moments like these remind me why I love this industry. Advice for Aspiring Travel Agents? Find your niche and own it. With the rise of online booking tools, clients aren’t just looking for someone to book a trip—they need an expert who understands their unique travel style and can craft experiences they wouldn’t find on their own. Instead of trying to be everything to everyone, focus on what excites you most, whether it’s luxury cruises, solo travel, or bespoke itineraries. When you specialise, you attract the right clients, build strong supplier relationships, and position yourself as a go-to expert. This is particularly true for baby boomers, who are among today’s most active travellers. Many do extensive research before approaching a travel agent—but what they really need is insight, reassurance, and expert guidance to bring their vision to life. Philip’s Must-Know Travel Tip For cruise travellers, be mindful when booking shore excursions. While independent operators may offer unique experiences or cost savings, always ensure a guarantee that you’ll return to the port on time. Booking through the cruise line is the safest option, as the operators maintain direct communication  with the ship. Some third-party providers also guarantee a timely return, but not all do—so always check the policy before committing. A little planning goes a long way in ensuring a stress-free cruise experience! Final Thoughts From airline strategy to personalised travel planning, Philip Clapé’s  journey in the travel industry has been one of passion, adaptability, and dedication to his clients. His ability to craft seamless, unforgettable experiences has made him a trusted expert in the field. No doubt, he’s got more incredible journeys ahead—we can’t wait to see where travel takes him next, hopefully back at TADA 25! 💡 To all travel advisors: Find your niche, embrace your expertise, and create unforgettable journeys —that’s what makes all the difference. Find your niche and own it.” — Philip Clapé, reminding us that specialising is the secret to standing out in today’s travel world.

In an industry where authenticity and expertise are key, Anna stands out as a supplier leader who is redefining what it means to connect travellers with the perfect travel experiences. Here’s a closer look at her remarkable journey and vision for the future. A Bold Leap from Corporate to Wanderlust Fifteen years ago, Anna made a courageous decision—leaving behind a corporate marketing career to pursue her lifelong passion for travel. “I wanted to help people experience their dream holidays,” she recalls. Starting as a travel agent, Anna quickly built a loyal clientele that trusted her expertise to craft memorable journeys. As her reputation grew, she transitioned into a home-based role, focusing on repeat and referral business—a model that allowed her to deliver truly personal travel experiences. Anna Shannon, Founder of Travel Agent Finder Pivoting in the Face of Adversity The global pandemic brought unprecedented challenges to the travel industry. Like many, Anna found herself at a crossroads when her role as a travel agent was disrupted. However, instead of stepping away from her passion, she returned to her marketing roots—this time with a renewed focus on supporting the travel industry in crisis. “I started working in marketing again, outside of the industry, but soon realized I could make a difference for small local businesses and owner operators struggling to juggle everything,” Anna explains. Innovating with Purpose Determined to empower her peers, Anna launched Travel Agent Finder —a platform designed to help travellers find agents based on expertise, and in doing so, bolster the online presence of travel agents. Recognizing an even larger gap, she later introduced Travel Trade Connect . This extension not only facilitates connections between agents and suppliers but also provides access to vital resources, events, training courses, and destination information. With over 1,000 members now benefiting from her platform, Anna’s work is a testament to the power of digital marketing and personal branding in today’s travel landscape. The Power of Personal Branding Looking ahead to 2025, Anna believes that travel agents must embrace personal branding. “It’s not just about the brand you work for, but you—your individual expertise, reviews, and passion. That’s what truly attracts clients,” she emphasizes. By showcasing their unique skills and personal touch, agents can rise above the competition and offer unparalleled travel experiences. Some fun facts about Anna! Anna has a deep love for conspiracy theories, the paranormal, and anything that makes you question reality. She thrives on the unexplained and the unexpected! And if you try to put her in a box? Well, she’ll probably jump out—just to keep things interesting Looking Forward Anna’s journey—from corporate marketer to industry innovator—illustrates the transformative power of passion and resilience. By blending traditional travel expertise with cutting-edge digital marketing, she is not only helping travel agents thrive but also reshaping the industry for the better. Stay tuned as we continue to spotlight visionary leaders like Anna who are driving change and inspiring new standards in travel.

We caught up with Dennis—one of the founding “Bunniks” behind Bunnik Tours—to chat about his remarkable journey in the travel industry and the passion that drives him every day. Can you start by introducing yourself? Tell us a bit about your background and your role in the travel industry. “Hi, I’m Dennis and I’m one of the Bunniks behind Bunnik Tours. We create small group tours that connect people, places, and cultures. As one of the joint CEOs, I oversee our brand, external partnerships, finance, and IT. I’ve also had the privilege of chairing the Council of Australian Tour Operators (CATO) for the past 10 years, leading industry lobbying efforts during the challenging covid years. My career began at Hilton Hotels in London, followed by a role at Qantas Holidays where I gained my qualification as a chartered management accountant. For the past 30 years, I’ve been on an incredible journey with our family business—from a small Adelaide travel agency to the renowned Bunnik Tours we know today.” What inspired you to pursue a career in the travel industry, and what’s kept you passionate about it over the years? “My mum, Marion, has worked in the industry her entire life—even before I was born! Growing up in a family of avid travellers made a career in travel a natural choice. I know it sounds corny, but what I love most is that we get to make people’s dreams come true. And, of course, the thrill of travel itself never fades—I still get excited every time I’m at the airport, even if I’m just heading to Melbourne.” What’s the most memorable trip you’ve worked on, and what made it so special? “It’s tough to choose just one! Escorting our very first tour through the 5 Stans last year was unforgettable. I was in Egypt when the Arab Spring revolution broke out and had the unique, surreal experience of evacuating all our clients. And then there was the first overseas trip post-covid—a tour to Sri Lanka where the shared sense of joy and freedom was simply incredible.” Dennis in Amazing Egypt What’s one trend or innovation in the travel industry that you think travel agents should focus on in 2025? “For me, it’s not about chasing the latest trends but getting back to the basics: building genuine connections with clients and sharing your love and passion for travel. When you get those fundamentals right, everything else falls into place.” How do you see the role of sustainability evolving in the travel industry, and how can travel agents implement more eco-friendly practices? “I believe we’re moving towards a more holistic view of sustainability. It’s not just about carbon offsets or reducing plastic—it’s about doing the right thing in every aspect of the travel experience. This means lessening our environmental impact, benefiting the local communities we visit, and even addressing issues like travel consultant burnout and over-tourism. Every step of the process needs to reflect a commitment to sustainability.” What’s a fun or surprising fact about you that not many people know? “Most people already know about my YouTube channel—I just can’t stop talking about it! What started as flight reviews for travel agents and travellers has grown into a behind-the-scenes look at the airline industry. I’ve filmed everything from time spent with aircraft engineers in Edinburgh and Dublin to exploring what happens to airline blankets between flights.” For more insights from Dennis and a closer look at Bunnik Tours’ journey, check out his work here:🔗 Bunnik Tours  | 🎥 YouTube Channel Dennis: Trailblazing Leader in Global Travel

We recently had the pleasure of catching up with Dennis, the Managing Director for Australia at Exoticca . Dennis has over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, spanning from aviation to tour operations. His journey through various facets of the industry offers a rich perspective on the evolution and current trends of global travel. Can you start by introducing yourself? Tell us a bit about your background and your role in the travel industry. From a young age, I was captivated by the aviation industry and dreamed of traveling the world. The '90s were a challenging time to enter the sector, but I started in hotels, gaining valuable experience before moving into aviation. Over the years, I've held various commercial roles across retail, wholesale, and tour operation tourism boards, which led me to my current position as Managing Director, Australia for Exoticca. What inspired you to pursue a career in the travel industry, and what has kept you passionate about it over the years? Initially, it was the glamour of traveling for work that drew me in. However, nearly 30 years later, my focus has shifted more towards leisure travel as a way to unwind from the daily pressures. The dynamic nature of the industry and the continuous evolution in how we travel keep my passion alive. What’s the most memorable trip you’ve worked on, and what made it so special? About ten years ago, my partner and I visited the Solomon Islands. We stayed on a remote island with no technology, just a beautiful bungalow and a private chef. The simplicity and peacefulness of that trip, filled with reading, healthy eating, and swimming in the sea, made it incredibly special and the most relaxed I’ve ever been. What’s one trend or innovation in the travel industry that you think travel agents should focus on in 2025? Technology is key for the future of travel. Travel agents should focus on leveraging products that streamline the booking process, saving hours and enhancing client satisfaction. At Exoticca, we were the first B2B operator to offer multi-day tours online, with options to book with or without air, as well as pre and/or post accommodation. This innovation is part of our ongoing commitment to support our travel advisors by removing the hassle of back-and-forth communications and long hold times with suppliers. How do you see the role of sustainability evolving in the travel industry, and how can Travel Agents implement more eco-friendly practices? From a travel advisor's perspective, it's essential to align with operators who are committed to sustainable practices. Many travelers are now asking about the sustainability efforts of operators, so it's crucial to stay informed. Exoticca’s programs focus on environmental protection, social welfare, and corporate governance, both in our destination operations and at our headquarters. What’s a fun or surprising fact about you that not many people know? Despite my youthful appearance, I'm a grandfather, or "D-Pa," as I like to call it! I have a 30-year-old daughter living in the US who recently had her first child, which often surprises people considering my young looks. As Dennis and Exoticca prepare to exhibit at TADA, they look forward to sharing their innovative approaches to travel with industry peers. His journey and insights are a testament to the enduring allure and evolving responsibilities of the travel industry. Stay tuned for more updates from Exoticca as they continue to redefine the travel experience through technology and sustainability. Dennis Basham