GLOBUS: How long have you been in the travel business? Have you always been an agent?

MERLE: I have been an agent since immigrating to the USA from the Philippines 15 years ago. I worked in various capacities in the insurance and automobile industries before becoming a travel agent.

G: How long have you been with your current agency, host?

M: I have been with the same agency for 15 years.

G: What do you feel is the strength of you and/or your agency in the current travel marketplace?

M: Our agency deals mainly with Asian destinations and most of us have been to or are originally from those countries. We are also a ticket consolidator for Singapore, Philippine, Cathay, China and Korean Airlines. We are very active in the Asian ethnic associations where we get a lot of customers and referrals.

G: What successes have you had selling trips to China/Asia?

M: Because of our ties with the Asian ethnic market, they always think of our agency whenever they are planning trips, not just to Asia, but to Europe and the Middle East as well.

G: What are the main reasons you work with the Globus family of brands?

M: It’s easy to book with Globus because of your friendly and knowledgeable staff. The sales force is also very helpful whenever we ask for information or sales/marketing support.

G: Tell me a unique marketing tactic you use to cut through the clutter when trying to reach your clients.

M: I always try to get back to my clients by phone or email. If I am unable to reach them by these means, I would send them a postcard. I have even knocked on my very important client’s doors a few times. I know it’s a sure sale if they see me in person.

G: What, outside of travel, are you passionate about?

M: I am a fitness fanatic. I go to the gym at least 4 times a week to work out with my trainer or attend an exercise class. For relaxation, I go to the spa for massage, facials, manicures, pedicures – all the nice things a young vibrant woman must have. And of course, traveling is my most important passion. I would like to visit at least 2 different places a year.