Club Med's Jacinda Lowry discusses the brand's ambitious global growth to reach 100 resorts by 2035 and her evolution over the past 16 years with the all-inclusive resort company
Can you tell us a little bit about yourself and how long you’ve been in the travel industry?
If you had told me at the start of my career, years ago that I would end up in the travel industry, I probably would have laughed, I am not the best in geography and I packed heavy and to be honest, I still do, a continual challenge for me.
Before joining Club Med in 2010, I spent five years with Cirque du Soleil in Corporate Group Sales, managing the large accounts portfolio in North America, when a headhunter approached me with the opportunity to build Club Med Canada’s Meetings & Events groups division. I was very happy at Cirque, but I couldn’t resist the challenge. I joined in 2010 and have never looked back. Over the past 16 years, I’ve had the privilege of growing alongside the brand, from launching and developing our group business to leading our Canadian sales team, and today as Associate Vice President, Sales Canada.
What keeps me passionate after all these years is simple: the people. Our teams, our travel advisor partners, and our client satisfaction inspire me every day. Club Med is a company that continues to innovate, grow, and dream bigger, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be part of that journey. And let’s be honest, it’s also the perks with travel, but not the primary reason.
What’s new and exciting with Club Med that you think travel advisors should know?
What excites me most about the future of Club Med is the incredible momentum behind the brand and our ambitious growth plans. From the recent opening of our first South African Sun & Safari resort, to Club Med Sainte-Croix bringing us back to U.S. soil in Q4 of 2027, and the highly anticipated opening of Club Med Mont-Tremblant in Dec. 2028; our second all-inclusive resort in Canada and the list continues, the future is incredibly bright.
Through our Forever Young roadmap to 2035, we continue to invest in innovation, technology, big renovations and new destinations, there are many opportunities for our teams and travel advisor partners. After more than 16 years with Club Med, I remain as passionate as ever. I strongly believe in our vision, our leadership, and our people, and I’m particularly excited about the growth opportunities ahead for all of Canada, particularly English Canada. The challenge is big, the opportunity is even bigger, and that gives me so much drive.
What’s something most people may not know about you?
Most people don’t know that I’m a natural introvert. Early in my career, presenting and networking pushed me well outside my comfort zone. Over time, I intentionally developed those skills and learned to thrive in situations that require visibility, influence, and communication. Even so, I still recharge through quiet reflection and personal time. It’s a reminder to me that growth doesn’t mean changing who you are; it means expanding what you’re capable of doing.
Do you believe in the role of the travel agent?
Yes, I strongly believe in the role of the travel agent. While technology has transformed the way people research and book travel, it will never fully replace the human touch, personal relationships, and expertise that travel advisors bring. A website can provide options, but it cannot truly understand a traveler’s preferences, concerns, or unique needs the way a trusted travel professional can. One of the greatest values of a travel agent is the relationship they build with their clients. Over time, they learn what their clients enjoy, anticipate their needs, and provide personalized recommendations that go far beyond what an algorithm can deliver.
The real value of a travel agent becomes even more apparent when things go wrong. Flight cancellations, weather disruptions, lost reservations, medical emergencies, and unexpected travel changes happen every day. In those moments, travellers don’t want to spend hours on hold or navigate automated systems. They want a knowledgeable person they trust who can advocate on their behalf, find solutions, and provide reassurance during a stressful situation.
Technology is an incredible tool, but it works best when combined with human expertise. Travel agents use technology to enhance efficiency, yet the relationship, empathy, judgment, and problem-solving skills they provide cannot be automated. People may book a trip online, but when they need advice, support, or someone in their corner during a crisis, the human connection remains irreplaceable. Simply put: technology can book a trip, but it cannot build trust, provide genuine care, or stand beside a traveler when things don’t go as planned. That’s why the role of the travel agent remains as relevant as ever.
What advice would you give to travel agents today?
My advice would be to focus on three key areas: having a clear strategy, embracing continuous learning, and prioritizing relationships. First, the most successful advisors know exactly what they want to achieve. They have a clear vision for their business, they understand which client segments they want to develop, and have a well-defined plan to get there. Understanding what motivates you and what kind of business you want to build helps guide decisions and keeps you focused during both the challenges and the successes.
Second, remain curious and open-minded. Our industry is evolving rapidly, with new technologies, AI tools, marketing platforms, and changing consumer expectations. The advisors who continue to grow are those who invest in their own development, stay informed, and are willing to adapt. The moment we believe we know everything is the moment we stop growing.
Finally, never lose sight of the human element. Travel is, and always will be, a relationship business. The strongest client relationships are built on trust, expertise, reliability, and genuine care. Clients want to feel understood and valued. Take the time to listen, anticipate their needs, and be there for them when it matters most. Those personal connections create loyalty and referrals that go far beyond a single booking.
Are you team window or aisle? Carry-on or checked bag?
I’m definitely an aisle seat person! I hate having to bother people if I need to get up, and I like the freedom and autonomy of being able to move around whenever I want. As for luggage, I’m 100% a checked bag traveller. One of my biggest challenges, even after all these years of traveling, is that I still tend to overpack and make my suitcase way too heavy. It’s a constant work in progress! Every trip, I tell myself I’m going to pack lighter, and every trip, I seem to find a few “just in case” items that somehow make their way into my suitcase. Lol!
If you had to sing karaoke tonight, which song would you pick?
Karaoke? Nobody deserves that level of punishment from my singing! My singing is a public service warning. However, if you put on anything such as: Teddy Swims, Prince, AC/DC, or Annie Lennox, I’ll happily trade the microphone for the dance floor. The music gets louder, my inhibitions disappear, and suddenly I think I’m a much better dancer than I actually am… you’ll find me dancing like nobody’s watching.
What do you do for fun when you’re not working?
When I’m not working, I’m usually keeping busy. I’ve recently started pottery classes (let’s just say I’m still learning!), spend time at the gym, enjoy a good shopping trip, and love escaping into nature whenever possible. Above all, I cherish spending time with my son, my daughter-in-law, and my close-knit group of friends.
Do you have anything else you’d like to share that we haven’t touched on yet?
Our industry can be a tough one. There are many unknowns and plenty of elements outside of our control, but that’s also what makes the work so meaningful. Through all the changes and challenges, it’s the genuine human connections, relationships, and trust we build that keep us moving forward and make it all worthwhile.
If I could leave you with one final thought, it would be this: take the time to get to know Club Med. Beyond the resorts and destinations, you’ll find a team that truly values the travel advisor community and wants to build long-term partnerships. We know your time is valuable, and we believe that investing a little time in understanding our brand, many are surprised to discover how much our product, experience, and support have evolved over the years, this can open the door to new opportunities for your business and memorable experiences for your clients.
“We’re committed to being a partner in your success, not just another supplier.”
