We Set Out to Do Work Worth Noticing
Something rather exciting is happening next week, and I’d like to share it with you.
The Joy of Travel will be attending a three-day travel industry event in San Antonio. Before the main conference begins, there is an additional two-day program created especially for advisors who work with luxury travelers. Attendance is by invitation only, and Leigh Ann and I were both invited.
But the surprises didn’t stop there.
I was first asked to moderate a panel about luxury travelers and the importance of storytelling. I have since learned that I’ll also be participating as a panelist and guest speaker. At the same time, I’m being invited to contribute articles to travel industry publications and to play hostess to a prestigious travel publication during the event.
I’ll admit that it is very exciting to be recognized—but it is also very humbling.
And, if I’m being completely honest, a little terrifying.
I can talk to customers about travel all day long. Ask me about an African safari, a European river cruise or a tour through Ireland, and you may eventually have to look for a polite escape route. Put me on a stage in front of a convention hall filled with travel professionals, however, and suddenly I become very aware of the microphone, the lights and the possibility that my brain may decide to leave for vacation without me.
So yes, I’m honored. I’m grateful. And I’m plenty nervous.
When I began The Joy of Travel more than 20 years ago, I wasn’t trying to become a speaker or see my name in industry publications. I was trying to help people experience this remarkable world with confidence.
That happened one traveler, one journey and one lesson at a time.
We didn’t set out to be noticed. We set out to do work worth noticing.
To me, luxury travel has never been about showing off or surrounding yourself with unnecessary extravagance. It means knowing when something is worth the investment. It might be a guide who brings history to life, a lodge that places you close to the wildlife, a smaller group that allows for deeper experiences or an itinerary that gives you something meaningful instead of simply rushing you past it.
It is about understanding the traveler’s story first—and then designing the right journey around it.
That is why being asked to speak about storytelling feels especially meaningful. Your stories are at the heart of what we do: where you have dreamed of going, why it matters to you, what you hope to experience and how you want to feel when you return home.
This recognition may have my name attached to it, but it belongs to many people. It belongs to Leigh Ann and our team of advisors, who care deeply about their travelers. It belongs to the industry partners who trust us. Most of all, it belongs to the customers who have allowed us to be part of their travels, celebrations, adventures and long-held dreams.
Next week, I will walk onto that stage representing The Joy of Travel with tremendous gratitude, more than 20 years of experience—and, quite possibly, slightly shaky knees.
I’ll also be carrying your stories.