Darren Snow has travelled to over 50 countries and many numerous times, and this was before he ever stared a travel agency. It made sense to start a travel agency because he saw a need for clients to be able to talk to a knowledgeable agent. At the time, he have had a commercial fishing boat on the west coast for 10 years but always dreamed of seeing the world. He did my best each winter to see as much of this world as he could but knew there was something bigger out there for him.
Darren dreamed of great beaches and has done his best to see as many as he could so far. Historical places, jungle tours in Borneo and the Amazon have been highlights. Darren is very interested in geography and cultures and have been to some off the beaten path type holidays. He has 4 children and has taken them on many holidays. Darren has done all types of vacations and has more on his bucket list. This industry just makes sense!
BeTheBoss: Tell us about the Travel Mix concept.
DS: Travel Mix is a T.I.C.O. ( Travel Industry Council of Ontario ) registered agency. This means all bookings are insured for airline or tour operator failure. We offer the best support in the industry. Our C.E.O. is available 7 days a week and all evenings for area owners. Our president is available just as much also to ensure you can help your clients. When selling travel it takes time to be a successful agent/area owner. That's where our expertise comes into play. Day or night 7 days a week you have a support network second to none. I often tell agents " Don't waste your time if you are not finding the information you client needs. Often I can give you the answer in 20 seconds. " Having such knowledge in the industry takes time and I am here to help. I love helping area owners build their business.
BTB: How and when did you become involved with Travel Mix?
DS:I just recently became involved with Travel Mix but have been doing the same thing for another company the last 10 years.
BTB: What was your background prior to joining Travel Mix?
DS:I have travelled extensively before getting involved the travel industry. What other agents like most about me is that I have been to over 50 countries and many as much as 10 times. My knowledge and memory of these destinations is so great and accurate that I am a great resource for all to use.
BTB: What are some of the advantages in being a Travel Mix franchisee?
DS:The biggest advantage of becoming a Travel Mix area owner is that you have such a knowledgeable to team to rely on. Not only during the day but also at night when no other Travel company has staff on to help. I am available 7 days a week so when that big booking comes in you can help your clients with confidence.
BTB: Tell us a little about the Travel Market?
DS:The travel industry is becoming more and more reliant on well travelled agents with great customer service. Our online presence will let your clients book online or search for the package they want. It is a customer service industry and servicing clients promptly goes along way in building your business. We will help you every step of the way to ensure you have the tools to make your Travel Mix office successful.
BTB: What are some of the greatest lessons you’ve learned in growing this franchise?
DS:I have learned a lot in my time spent in the industry. You will find me a valuable asset in growing your business.
BTB: Do you have a mentor and is their someone you use for inspiration?
DS:I admire any entrepreneur who is willing to take an idea and stick by it. As in any industry your own business takes a lot of time. In the travel industry you are able to ease back over time as many clients become loyal clients and you may not feel you need to work more than a regular work week. As with any industry there are always people who outshine others with innovative ideas and hard work. We try to help each other, as with your protected territory we are not competing with each other but working together to build a brand that we want to be amongst he most popular n Canada. Your success is our success.
BTB: What advice do you have for someone looking to acquire a Franchise?
DS:My advice for anyone thinking about this opportunity is to understand a travel business is like any other business and takes time to build. Maybe longer than some but with great service you attain a loyal clientele who will be with you for life.
BTB: In your opinion, why do you think that Travel Mix would be a great opportunity for someone?
DS:Travel Mix is the best opportunity out there because we do not sell another office in your area. You will receive a protected territory with all phone calls to us and online bookings on our site within your territory belonging to you. You will also be able to sell the outside agent opportunity within your territory and within any area we do not have an office yet. It is to our advantage to help build your area. We will not have another area owner in your territory so we need you to be successful.
