Honored to be in The Travel Institute Alumni Spotlight

Susan Blume CTC VTA Personal Escape Travel

I want to take a moment to express my heartfelt gratitude to the Travel Institute for the exceptional interview experience and the invaluable resources it offers to travel agents across the industry.

As a travel agent, I have greatly benefited from the comprehensive courses and extensive training programs available through the Travel Institute. These educational offerings have not only enhanced my knowledge of the travel industry but have also equipped me with the essential skills needed to navigate the complexities of this dynamic field. My experience with the Travel Institute has been profoundly positive, and I am deeply appreciative of the support and resources it provides. The combination of high-quality education, professional development opportunities, and a supportive community has significantly contributed to my growth as a travel agent. I look forward to continuing my journey with the Travel Institute, confident that it will remain a cornerstone of my professional development in the travel industry.

The Travel Institute Questions

What inspired you to pursue a career in travel and tourism? Was there a defining moment?

My career started out as a part time job when I was 19 years old to make some extra money and help out a family friend who owned a travel agency that was growing very quickly.

The more I learned about travel and our guests the more I fell in love. Within a year I became a full time employee on the corporate side of the business.

Can you share a moment in your career when you realized, “This is exactly what I’m meant to do”?

Once I moved on to the corporate side I starting working with the shipping industry- seaman rates etc..I was able to get a group home when their country went to war-I was able to get them home to their families and loved ones during a time when air space was closed.

They got word back to us that they made back to their homes safely. It was all during a time when we didn’t have internet service yet. Travel can be life changing.

How has your journey evolved since graduating from The Travel Institute?

The Travel Institute has made me much more professional and learning is a life long journey. I am always looking to take more classes so I always come back to the Travel Institute first.

My journey is always evolving and I will always be a member of the Travel Institute because I always find something new to help me on my journey.

What’s your favorite part about helping others experience the world through travel?

Experiencing the world thru my guests eyes. Even though you may know a destination really well it becomes new again to me when I see or hear the excitement of someone else’s experience.

It also builds a bond between you and the guest.

What’s one cultural experience that left a lasting impression on you?

Hawaii, its has its own language, monarchy and cultural traditions. Hawaii was just amazing because it has all things that are same as the mainland but then its so unique in its heritage and culture. The natural, raw beauty and wildlife are also experiences that you can never forget. I can’t wait to go back to Hawaii.

What’s one place on your travel bucket list that you haven’t crossed off yet?

Antarctica is place that I really look forward to experiencing. Looking to go on expedition cruise.

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or going on your first vacation, I would love to help!

One of the things I love about being a travel advisor is meeting new people and hearing all about their dream vacations. I’m the proud owner of Personal Escape Travel, a luxury travel agency that specializes in creating fully customized and unique vacations around the world.With nearly 35 years in the industry, I focus on providing 5-star travel services to all types of travelers in countless travel destinations worldwide.

www.PersonalEscapeTravel.com