Alison Harrigan’s Post

Where can we take you?

It is not about the destination, it is about the journey and memories. This is basically the experience you derive from the journey which entails the trip planning process, the activities, hospitality and everything else that's involved in the tour "ultimate experience"

A very interesting point published by Travel Media . Yes in general attitude is the number one skill.

A tribute to Hospitality staff #Wearehospitality In the dynamic world of hospitality, there exists a cadre of unsung heroes whose unwavering dedication and pride shine through in every interaction, yet often go unnoticed. As someone who holds a degree in travel and tourism management and a TEFL certificate, I've had the privilege of experiencing firsthand the intricate dance of service that hospitality staff perform daily. My journey began as a travel agent, but it didn't take long for me to realize that my true calling lay in direct interaction with people. Working on the ground with guests, forging connections, and creating memorable experiences became my forte. However, the misconception persists that hospitality is an easy career—a sentiment echoed by those outside the industry who belittle our efforts with remarks like "you get paid to just smile and look pretty" or "it's such an easy job." But behind the façade of smiles lies a world of complexity and dedication. Hospitality is akin to a meticulously crafted movie, where every detail, from the warmth of a greeting to the attentiveness of service, is orchestrated to perfection. Unlike corporate jobs where one can retreat into solitude, in hospitality, we must always show up as the best version of ourselves. Support and empathy are integral to our industry. There are days when I walk into work feeling like I've been hit by a bus, but a quick chat with my work bestie or a cry to my boss helps me recharge and face the day with renewed strength. It's these moments of connection and understanding that sustain us in the face of challenges. I'm not here to advocate that hospitality is a difficult career, but rather to shed light on the misconceptions that surround it. Every industry has its own challenges and rewards, and hospitality is no exception. So, the next time you encounter a hospitality staff member, take a moment to recognize the dedication and pride that underpin their every action. Shadow us for a day, and you'll witness firsthand the effort and resilience required to excel in this challenging yet rewarding field. The day society truly understands and appreciates the depth of hospitality beyond its surface perception will mark a significant milestone in our collective appreciation of these unsung heroes. #hotel #travel #restaurant #tourism #wearetourismandhospitality

“ Embracing the Past, Navigating Change: Reflecting on My Journey in the Hotel Industry 🌆 As I sit back and reflect on my journey in the hotel industry, a flood of memories comes rushing in. The moments of interacting with tour operators, companies, embassy, NGO and online travel platforms, the satisfaction of creating memorable experiences – these memories hold a special place in my heart. The hotel industry has been more than just a career for me; it has been a journey of growth, learning, and connection. Each day brought new challenges that pushed me to adapt, innovate, and provide exceptional service. But as we all know, life has a way of throwing unexpected curveballs. The sudden onset of the COVID-19 pandemic brought about unparalleled changes, altering the landscape of the hotel industry and, in turn, my career. While these changes were difficult to navigate, I found solace in cherishing the memories and lessons from my time in the industry. They serve as a reminder of the resilience that's inherent in all of us, as well as the importance of embracing change and finding opportunities in adversity. Though my path took an unexpected turn, the spirit of hospitality remains alive within me. As I adapt to new challenges and explore different avenues, I carry with me the values instilled by my time in the hotel industry – the dedication to service, the art of communication, and the unwavering commitment to creating positive experiences. Today, I find myself reminiscing about those cherished moments, holding onto the camaraderie shared with colleagues, and the satisfaction of exceeding guests' expectations. These memories are a testament to the power of human connection and the impact we can make through genuine interactions. While the road ahead may be uncertain, one thing remains clear – the memories and experiences from my time in the hotel industry will forever be a source of inspiration and strength. Photo : Event By #expediagroup 2019 #MyselfNiNi

The right place with right people

In life, we encounter challenges that can test our resolve and push us to our limits. It's essential not to give up but to pause, reflect, and reset our approach. Starting over might feel intimidating, but it presents an opportunity for growth and renewal. Embrace the chance to begin again, learn from past experiences, and emerge stronger. #management #tourism #hotels

Just Booked: A really big, fun group on the Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady. 141 people coming together for 4 days of events and fun in the Caribbean sun. Cruise ships are fantastic venues to bring groups of folks together. Food, Entertainment, Pools, Destinations and so much more are included in the cruise fare. Whether it's a group of like-minded folks or bringing your business colleagues onboard. There are so many advantages to cruise ships over land-based resorts and meeting venues. The biggest are the aforementioned inclusions plus the A/V and Meetings rooms are often included as well. Those can be HUGE expenses at land-based resorts and hotels. Not to mention spouses and families can come along and be entertained during the day while you have your company retreat / meeting / training / incentive / product rollout / gathering.... Last but not least, Groups get incentives such as the extra on-board credits that were given to all 75 cabins in the group we just booked. Especially if you have a remote workforce. Bringing everyone together for some real face-time once or twice a year is a great way to build rapport, camaraderie, and unity in your team. Not to mention some great new friendships. With over 300 cruise ships around the world, we can send you and your group to almost any destination for almost any length of time on almost any size of ship. Have a group of friends, family or colleagues that you want to bring together for a weekend or a week? Reach out and let's talk about all the options cruises and cruise ships can offer! #Travel #Groups #TravelAgent #Cruise #Corporate #RemoteWork #Training

In the realm of air travel, the choice between Business Class and First Class is more than just a seat preference—it's a lifestyle decision. Business Class offers luxury, but First Class? It's a world apart. From personalized service to curated dining experiences, First Class takes inflight indulgence to new heights. And let's not forget the ground experience—chauffeured rides and spa treatments await. So, when it comes to flying, are you settling? Or reaching for the stars? #TravelGoals #FirstClassExperience" https://lnkd.in/gBMUMPHf

Nominations for the SmartBrief Innovation Awards for Business Travelers are now open. Does your product provide exceptional solutions to the airline and travel and hospitality industries? If so, SmartBrief wants to honor you. Nominate your product today. #travel #businesstravelers #hotels #airlines #sustainability #technology #technologysolutions #Smartbrief #hospitality