Today we’d like to introduce you to Christina Smith.
Hi Christina, thanks for joining us today. We’d love for you to start by introducing yourself.
I worked in sales management for most of my professional life — a career that I truly enjoyed. However, as time went on, I found myself wanting more flexibility and the opportunity to travel with my husband while still staying engaged professionally. I also reached a point where I knew I wanted to build something of my own, rather than working for someone else.
After some serious soul-searching, my husband and I began exploring travel franchise opportunities. That’s when we discovered **Cruise Planners**, which immediately stood out for its strong reputation, comprehensive support system, and respected presence in the travel industry.
From my first phone interview, I was impressed by the company’s family-like atmosphere and perfect balance of professionalism and fun. I knew immediately that Cruise Planners was the right fit — and it has proven to be one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
Today, I am proud to own A1A Destinations, an Independent Cruise Planners Travel Agency, where I help clients create unforgettable journeys — whether it’s a family getaway, milestone celebration, or bucket-list adventure. What I love most about this business is the joy of turning someone’s dream trip into reality. Every day brings new opportunities to inspire, connect, and share the world with others — all while doing something I truly love.
Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Like any new business owner, I faced my share of challenges in the beginning. Transitioning from a structured corporate environment to running my own business required a new mindset — suddenly, every decision rested on my shoulders. Learning the many aspects of the travel industry, building a client base from scratch, and establishing my brand all took time, patience, and persistence.
There were moments of doubt, but I focused on continuous learning and relied on the incredible support network within Cruise Planners. I attended training sessions, connected with other agents, and made it a point to stay positive and adaptable — even during times when the travel industry faced uncertainty. What kept me going was my passion for travel and my belief that helping others explore the world was truly meaningful work.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I realized I didn’t just want a job — I wanted a life where work and travel could go hand in hand. That’s how A1A Destinations came to life. Today, I help people realize their travel dreams — from family vacations and couple getaways to milestone celebrations and bucket-list adventures.
I love connecting with clients and creating trips that reflect their personalities and passions. From choosing the perfect cruise line to designing custom itineraries and handling every detail, my goal is to make travel effortless, memorable, and fun.
The most rewarding part of this work is seeing clients return year after year, sharing stories, and knowing I helped create lifelong memories.
What sets me apart is my combination of experience and passion. My background in sales management taught me organization, communication, and follow-through, while my love of travel inspires creativity and personalized service.
At the heart of it all, I help people see the world in a way that’s uniquely theirs — turning vacations into stories and adventures into memories that last a lifetime.
What sort of changes are you expecting over the next 5-10 years?
The travel industry is on the cusp of transformative change. Over the next 5–10 years, I anticipate several key shifts:
Hyper-Personalization: Advancements in artificial intelligence and data analytics will enable travel advisors to craft deeply personalized experiences, tailoring every aspect of a trip to individual preferences.
Sustainable and Purpose-Driven Travel: Travelers increasingly seek eco-friendly options and experiences that align with their values, such as wellness retreats, agritourism, and nature-based adventures.
Technological Integration: The rise of AI-powered travel assistants and digital platforms will streamline the booking process, offering travelers more autonomy while maintaining the need for expert guidance.
Experience over Destination: There’s a growing trend towards immersive and unique experiences, like noctourism—nighttime adventures such as stargazing and witnessing the Northern Lights—that offer travelers deeper connections with their surroundings.
Shift in Travel Patterns: With global events influencing travel habits, there’s a noticeable increase in domestic and regional travel and a rise in solo and bleisure (business + leisure) trips.
As a travel advisor, staying ahead of these trends will be crucial. The future of travel will be defined by embracing technology, prioritizing sustainability, and focusing on unique, personalized experiences. I’m excited to navigate these changes and continue helping clients create meaningful journeys.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.A1ADestinations.com
- Instagram: @A1ADestinations
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/A1Adestinations/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-smith-acc-a55029263/
