If there is one thing you should know about me is that I LOVE travelling – it is an integral part of who I am. Ever since I was seven, I have been overseas at least once every. single. year. All of my greatest memories involve travelling; from the first time I landed at the world’s best airport to the slice of heaven tucked away at Rapala Rockwood Resort in Thailand and that magical horse drawn carrriage experience in Cork, Ireland.

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While travelling has come to a stand still due to COVID-19; as a travel professional (and as an adept traveller myself), I ask us all to remember why we love travelling. We love travelling for the mouth watering food, the breathtaking sights but most importantly for the lifetime friends we meet along the way.

During this challenging time, I urge you to keep in mind (and in your heart) the countless number of phenomenal people behind this well oiled industry – the travel agents, tour operators, guides and local communities.

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Being a travel professional during COVID-19 is challenging to say the least but we are passionate! I can assure you we put in our blood, sweat and (many) tears to support you. We feel you. Many of us have had months of travel plans disrupted too. We understand your disappointment and that sinking feeling of being lost and powerless. We are on your side; we are here to help.

For all the families that rely solely on tourism, I urge you to postpone. For when it’s safe out there; they will welcome you with open arms. The community of travellers is tight knit and now more than ever, we need to stay together.

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I invite you to think of the core meaning behind hospitality – In Ancient Greece, receiving kindness from a stranger was a right and yet a sense of reciprocity was still expected. What I am trying to say here is, please show respect and compassion to the person on the other side of the line. We are doing our absolute best to keep your dreams and ours alive.

Our next trip might be months from now; but we will travel again. The travel industry isn’t going anywhere – we’ve survived the SARS outbreak in 2002, the Global Financial Crisis in 2008 and 9/11. We will get through COVID-19. The travel industry is the definition of resilience; it will bounce back! And when this is all over, we shall see you all at the aiport.