By Gemma Smith, a seasoned travel consultant and manager at Claremont Cruise & Travel Centre, has built a remarkable career fueled by her lifelong passion for exploring the world. From her early dreams of becoming a flight attendant to her current role as a travel industry leader, Smith’s journey is one of perseverance, dedication, and adaptability.
From Dreaming to Doing: Gemma Smith’s Journey into Travel
Smith’s fascination with travel began in childhood, with aspirations of becoming a flight attendant. Encouraged by her mother to pursue higher education first, she applied for a competitive travel course at Perth Metropolitan TAFE. Out of 800 applicants, she secured one of just 50 coveted spots.
Despite her training, finding a job in the industry proved challenging. After multiple rejections, Smith landed her first role with a company specializing in travel to New Zealand. From there, her career took off. “I’ve never had to apply for another job,” she shares, “I’ve always been asked to join award-winning agencies.”
Her loyalty and professionalism stand out in a fast-paced industry. Now in her fourth job since entering the field, Smith’s long-standing dedication to her work reflects her commitment to excellence. Since joining Claremont Cruise & Travel Centre in July 2023, she has helped cultivate a collaborative and supportive environment.
Trends Driving the Travel Industry
With years of experience under her belt, Smith has keen insights into the current travel landscape. Here are some of the key trends she’s noticed:
- Luxury Experiences: Travelers are seeking exclusive, high-end vacations like those offered by Scenic Eclipse cruises, which blend adventure with unparalleled comfort.
- Sustainable Travel: There’s growing demand for eco-friendly travel options as consumers become more conscious of their environmental impact.
- Personalized Itineraries: Customers increasingly expect bespoke experiences tailored to their preferences, making consulting expertise more valuable than ever.
- Work-Life Balance in Travel Planning: As Smith points out, ensuring her team achieves work-life balance is essential to fostering creativity and effective client service.
Tips for Career Success in the Travel Industry
Smith’s career is a testament to resilience and adaptability. For those looking to thrive in the travel sector, here are her tips for success:
- Stay Loyal: Smith’s long-term roles have allowed her to build trust and deep industry connections.
- Embrace Teamwork: She emphasizes the importance of collaboration and mutual support among colleagues.
- Focus on Balance: Prioritizing work-life balance, both personally and for her team, has helped her maintain energy and enthusiasm in a demanding field.
- Be Open to Opportunity: Smith advises staying receptive to unexpected career paths, as each role can open doors to new opportunities.
Smith’s journey from aspiring flight attendant to a respected figure in travel consultancy showcases the rewards of hard work, determination, and a passion for the industry. At Claremont Cruise & Travel Centre, her leadership continues to inspire her team and deliver exceptional service to clients, proving that a love for travel can transform not only careers but also lives.