What's New?

When my friends ask me what's new, I giggle to myself and think, that's a loaded question!  Let's see... in the last two months, I have started my own travel agency.  OK, so that doesn't mean everything is new, but it's a really big part of my life.  I absolutely love my work, so to take my career to this level was a natural progression.

The month of July was filled with lists of vendors to set up accounts with, E&O insurance to purchase, industry associations to join, website to build and seller of travel licenses to purchase, all while maintaining the quality of service that my clients are accustomed to.  PHEW!  That was a busy, busy month! As my 4 year old son pointed out, my office was "cwazy town"!

In August, I also began my quest to obtain my Accredited Cruise Counselor (ACC) certification and took my Certified Travel Associate (CTA) test.  I could kick myself for not starting my ACC earlier, because I could have had it completed by now.  I guess better late than never, though.  Starting the CTA was a different story.  There was a HUGE study guide, but most of it was just review... well except for the things that I have become dependent on good ol' Google for, like if it's 8pm in Los Angeles, what time is it in Tokyo?  I took that exam two weeks ago today.  The exam is comprised of 40 multiple choice questions that count 1 point each and 4 essay question that are worth 15 points each.  They grade the multiple choice immediately, but you have to wait about 4 weeks for the essay questions to be graded.  I scored 37 out of 40 on the multiple choice, so I feel pretty confident about passing it, but anyone that knows me, knows I am dying to know the final grade!!! Now to work on things like marketing plans and goal setting, but for me, those things are fun.

So where I am now?

I am very excited about my new company.  I am very proud of what I have been able to accomplish in a short amount of time.  I am humbled and honored to have such a great team of agents to work with.  I love planning trips and making my clients travel dreams come true. I am settling into a great rhythm and am looking forward to what this venture brings!