Gardiner reflects on her career in the travel industry, AmaWaterways' growth plans and spending time with her family and puppy Madeleine
Tell us a little bit about yourself and how long you’ve been in the travel industry?
I was born in Ontario and moved east more than 20 years ago. I have been working in travel since February 1988. I was a travel agent, a manager and later an owner then sold it all to work on the supplier side. I spent five years at Travcorp and am now in my 18th year at AmaWaterways.
Did you always know you wanted to be in travel or did you almost pursue another career?
I spent one year in real estate but always wanted to be in travel so I left and studied and started my career.
AmaWaterways has announced some ambitious expansion plans—can you tell us about what’s ahead?
We are very excited to announce onboard enhancements, rebranding with a whole new palate and branding. We are looking to increase our fleet from its current 31 ships to 50 by 2032. We are always looking at enhancing our included onshore experiences and these we add at various times.
What itineraries are doing well for the Canadian market?
Naturally Europe does well and always will. Guests from Canada like the ease of getting to our rivers and once they do many journeys on the Europe Rivers they will expand to our exotic destinations.
Is there anything else new and exciting?
Well, we launched Colombia last year and it is currently one of our most sought-after destinations. Having just been there, I love that it’s still in its authentic state and there is not much tourism on the Magdalena River. You really feel immersed in their culture when you go.
What’s something many people may not know about you?
I have three beautiful granddaughters who are five and six years old… Yes, the youngest are twins.
Do you believe in the role of the travel agent?
Absolutely. Travel advisors are immersed with knowledge on a daily basis and are generally part of a network that can share info with each other. This makes it easy for consumers as they don’t have to do the research themselves. And most travel advisors know their clients well enough to be trusted to provide the best suggestions for what will provide their clients with the best experiences.
What advice would you give to travel agents today?
You can’t know it all so pick your niche, your passion and learn it well. Choose preferred suppliers that you get to know and know them well. Connect with the BDMs and study their academies and travel with them. Once you choose that lane, stay in it.
Are you team window or aisle?
As long as it is close to the front!
Carry-on or checked bag?
Depends on the journey. I typically check but if it’s a short trip duration then I will carry on.
Do you keep track of how many countries you’ve visited?
I have been so blessed to see so much of this beautiful world and while I have not kept track of how many I do carry the treasured memories collected on each one. If so, what’s your number?
If you had to sing karaoke tonight, which song would you pick?
Wow, that’s a great question. I am not much for being in the spotlight actually so karaoke is not my thing but I do like Wonderwall. I am far happier seeing others shine!
What do you do for fun when you’re not working?
I have many interests when not working. Naturally I like to explore the world but my number one is being with my puppy Madeleine. I love to be with friends and cook and enjoy good wines, stories and laughter. I like golf and gardening when time allows it. And occasionally I will pick up a good book and read.
Do you have anything else you’d like to share that we haven’t touched on yet?
One of my favourite things is to be by the ocean with a glass of wine and puppy at my side to take in a gorgeous sunset. Mother Nature gives us so many pleasures and it’s nice to be able to sit back and appreciate it.
I am grateful for an industry that has provided me with many incredible moments and people I have shared them with.
