When did you join the travel industry or Tailor Made Travel (or both)? Travel industry: 1999. I have managed this agency since its inception as O'Connor Travel Centre in 2001 (owned by the local airline O’Connor Airlines), then changed to Travel O’Connor in 2008 (when it was bought by the de Bruin Group) and then I acquired the agency in 2013, at which point it became Tailor Made Travel Mt Gambier. What sparked your decision to join the industry? After spending five years at university and starting my first post-graduation job, I soon realised it wasn’t my ‘forever job’. I’ve always said that travelling brings out the best version of me, so I decided to pursue a career in something I genuinely loved. What are your favourite holiday memories or destinations? There are too many to list! I’ve travelled with loved ones, total strangers, industry colleagues and more recently, clients – all of whom I’ve loved creating lifelong memories and friendships with. Africa holds a very special place for me. I also love Iceland and anywhere that offers great food and unique experiences (safe to say there aren’t many places I don’t like). Personal travel tip: Don’t sweat the small stuff. Travel is not a tangible product, so be present and enjoy each moment, interaction and experience as they arise. The memories you make are worth it. I also encourage people not to city-hop - you miss out on all the golden nuggets in between.
When did you join the travel industry or Tailor Made Travel (or both)? I joined the travel industry in 1998 and Tailor Made Travel in November 2022. What sparked your decision to join the industry? After a family trip to the USA I realised how many amazing memories can be made through travel – and I wanted to help create that for others. What are your favourite holiday memories or destinations? So many favourites, too many to list. But anywhere with my family is special. My top destinations include Croatia, Africa, Vietnam and anywhere in Europe. Personal travel tip: Keep small denominations of cash handy for tipping and invest in a good neck pillow for those long flights!
When did you join the travel industry or Tailor Made Travel (or both)? I joined the travel industry in 2009. Moved from a domestic tourism role into travel advising in 2012. Consulted from 2012 to 2021, until my son was born. Then, in 2025 I rejoined the industry with Leah at Tailor Made Travel. I have enjoyed every minute since. What sparked your decision to join the industry? I have always loved travelling and tend to get sidetracked very easily when immersed in a new place. I also love planning and organisation so it was the perfect fit. What is your favourite holiday memories or destinations? I’ve travelled to the UK, Europe, UAE, India, Malaysia, Africa, Thailand, Indonesia, USA, Canada and New Zealand. My favourite holiday memory would have to be getting exclusive access to the burial chambers of Shah Jahan and his wife, which sit below the replicas on display for the public. Only accessible three days of the year, to a very limited number of people. It was incredible. Personal travel tip: Pack a power board, then you only need one adapter for all your devices.
When did you join the travel industry or Tailor Made Travel (or both)? May 2023! What sparked your decision to join the industry? I’ve always loved travel. After finishing my first big trip around Europe I came home feeling a bit lost and unsure of what was next. Then I saw a position advertised at this amazing travel agency – and I went for it! I’ve never looked back and truly love what I do every day. What is your favourite holiday memories or destinations? My favourite travel memory is also my favourite destination: Salzburg, Austria!. During our Contiki trip, we visited a local schnapps farm where we were served a delicious meal and had the chance to explore the cellar where the owner makes his own schnapps. Just a stunning town to walk around, very picturesque. I cannot wait to go back! Personal travel tip: If you are visiting Southeast Asia, or anywhere you're unsure about the food, drink a can of Coke every day! Dentists may disagree, but I’ve never had an upset stomach.
When did you join the travel industry or Tailor Made Travel (or both)? I joined both Tailor Made Travel and the travel industry in March 2025! What sparked your decision to join the industry? Travel is something I love and an industry I have always wanted to get into - plus who doesn’t want talk about travel all day? What is your favourite holiday memories or destinations? One of my favourite holiday destinations is Croatia. I love the laid-back lifestyle, the sun and of course the sea.
When did you join the travel industry or Tailor Made Travel (or both)? I joined Tailor Made Travel in March 2024. What is your favourite holiday memories or destinations? Spending Christmas in Chamonix in the French Alps, when I was 20 years old - it was like being in a winter wonderland fairytale. Personal travel tip: Pack smart by packing light, there's nothing worse than lugging a heavy case around while you travelling!
When did you join the travel industry or Tailor Made Travel (or both)? Here’s my Tailor Made Travel Timeline: May 2017 - Part-time Travel Executive (completely new to the industry). Feb 2018 - Full-time Junior Consultant. March 2020 - Departed (COVID). May 2024 - Back at Tailor Made Travel! This time as a part-time Travel Executive / Admin. What sparked your decision to join the industry? I have always had a passion for travel and when the opportunity popped up to gain a job under Leah & Carla – I knew I had to give it a go. To be given the opportunity to rejoin the Tailor Made Travel team four years after COVID was a no-brainer. I love being part of the process of seeing someone’s travel dreams become reality. Although I am only here a couple of days a week, being part of such an amazing team and interacting with our lovely clients is a blessing. We have lots of laughs and everyone has each other’s backs. What is your favourite holiday memories or destinations? Disneyland in Los Angeles with my family – I was 11 and it truly felt like the happiest place on Earth. I remember it like it was yesterday (although I did get left behind… I wouldn’t mind forgetting that part). Personal travel tip: Try on outfits before you go, it’ll save you time and reduce wardrobe meltdowns while abroad. Also, stay open-minded. Travel can be unpredictable so make the most of every moment. And of course, eat all the amazing food!
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Tailor Made Travel Mt Gambier