Travellers Choice’s Victorian network continues to blossom with the addition this month of two new members – one in the Melbourne suburb of Sunshine North and the other in the heart of the Sunraysia region.
Meral Murgoski, founder of Melbourne’s Global Travel and Cruise, says that during a travel industry career spanning almost 35 years – including 12 years as a business owner – she has worked with multiple retail networks, each offering very different levels of support.
“Today I enjoy the flexibility that comes with being a successful independent operator,” says Murgoski. “At the same time, I recognise the valuable growth opportunities that come from being part of a supportive network.
“What appealed to me most about Travellers Choice was being part of a member-owned network. Joining a community of owners that understands your business, shares your goals, and offers real support. It gives me the confidence that my voice is heard and valued.
I can also now call on the support of a locally based business development manager and an experienced marketing team to help me execute promotional events and explore new activities, such as leading my own escorted departures.
“Ultimately, I now enjoy the best of both worlds – the freedom of independence supported by the practical help I need, exactly when I need it.”
For Mildura Travel & Cruise owner, Karen Ridge, the decision to join Travellers Choice was heavily influenced by the glowing testimonials she received from business owners she respects.
Ridge, who launched her full-service agency in the heart of Australia’s fruit-growing region in northwestern Victoria back in 2008, says she was looking for a network that offered greater financial benefits and “genuine support”.
“In my experience the support promised to agents, particularly those in regional areas, can sometimes be mostly lip service,” says Ridge.
“For that reason, I place a high value on the advice I receive from fellow business owners I trust and with whom I have worked with in the past.
“When it came to Travellers Choice, the feedback I received from multiple sources was that this group sets the benchmark when it comes to supporting its members.”