Jai Mukerji
Vice President
jmukerji@andersonvacations.ca
403-245-6200
Jai Mukerji is the Vice President of Anderson Vacations and leads the executive and management teams to set corporate directions, formulate strategies and implement programs to ensure that Anderson Vacations remains a leader in delivering innovative travel products. Jai graduated with an MBA in marketing and finance and has 28 years of experience in the travel industry. From escorting tour groups to remote corners of the world, as the Operations Manager of a large Canadian outbound travel company, as General Manager of a fast growing inbound travel company and of a premium cruise retail company, Jai has wide experience in the industry. With a keen interest in using digital marketing techniques to reach cutting edge travel products to potential travellers, Jai has spent time working with specialists in developing online marketing strategies for travel companies. A backpacker at heart, Jai has travelled from the Antarctica to the Amazon, from Warsaw to Whitehorse and through dozens of countries across Asia, Africa, Europe, North and South America to help research and put together some of the best tours that are currently available.
Why are you in the Travel business?
I am a travel addict. I am convinced that seeing peoples, cultures and places across continents gives you an appreciation of how different civilizations evolved, gives you sense of your place in the world and makes you a global citizen with an open and inquisitive mind. As a Tour Leader, taking travellers to the lesser known parts of the world and seeing first hand how I could help change someone's understanding of our complex world, gave me a buzz that stays a lifetime.
What are your Favorite destinations that we offer?
We are very fortunate at Anderson Vacations in that we have niche destinations by specializing in Canada, Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific. All of these destinations are on the top of most clients travel lists, as they each individually offer something very unique and exciting.
I have not come across a destination that I did not like. Personally, I prefer to travel and explore places that are 'off the beaten track' and to try make those destinations accessible to more travellers. I find the diversity of Canadian landscapes breathtaking. From the pocket desert of Osoyoos in BC to the gigantic glacial snowfields of the Alberta Rockies, it is often a matter of only a few hours drive.
Tell us about a unique travel experience you have had?
In more than 30 years of travelling and with over 25 years in the travel business, there have been too many travel highlights to count. Certainly amongst the most memorable have been hiking on the Antarctic ice cap, being stranded in a remote desert oasis in the Sahara, walking with a flashlight along an Amazon jungle trail in the dark and seeing the Northern Lights dance across the skies in the Yukon.
Outside of Anderson Vacations, what do you like to do?
I love photography, particularly travel photography. Apart from travel brochures, I have been lucky to have my photography published in magazines, calendars and well known websites. I love the outdoors and take time during weekends to hike, snowshoe or bike.
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Darcie Guarderas
Director of Business Development
dguarderas@andersonvacations.ca
250-268-3414
Darcie Guarderas, Director of Business Development for Anderson Vacations has been in the tourism industry for over 30 years. From a front line travel agent to her current role, she has an undeniable passion for all things travel. From Tuktoyaktak to Kangaroo Island, there is are few places Darcie has not been and she looks forward to continuing her explorations of Anderson Vacations destinations. Her true passion is sharing her knowledge from these travels with our travel agent partners, and supporting them any way she can.
What do you love most about the Tourism Industry?
I am a people person! I love connecting, teaching and learning and most of all laughing.
What are your favourite destinations that we offer?
This is a tough question as I have never met a destination I didn\'t love! I think the Cook Islands will always top my list. The laid back lifestyle, the pristine beaches and the friendly locals make it the perfect getaway. I am a huge fan of our own backyard. In fact, as of Summer 2021, I have officially visited every Province and Territory in Canada, at least once!
Tell us about a unique travel experience you have had?
One of the most incredible travel experiences I have had is swimming with the giant clams in Aitutaki. I had no idea just how large a giant clam might be. I can remember hearing my heart pound underwater with excitement. I love to be surprised and this was certainly a surprise for me!
Outside of Anderson Vacations, what do you like to do?
I am super social, so if it includes food and wine, I am happy. Most of my downtime is spent with family and friends or down at the crab pier catching our next dinner.
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Andres Reinoso
General Manager
areinoso@andersonvacations.ca
Andres is originally from Quito, Ecuador - South America, and has been in the tourism industry for over 18 years in different areas such as accommodation, hospitality, land tour operations; as a travel guide, front-line travel agent, marketing, sales, and commercial roles. He has a Bachelors in Ecotourism and a Masters in Tourism Management and Digital Marketing.
He has learned that the best way to appreciate other cultures and places is through their people, traditions, food, culture, and beliefs - making every destination special and unique.
What do you love most about the Tourism Industry?
It is the friendliest industry; we are one of the most resilient people. This industry enables the chance to make a difference when you travel, enjoy the people you meet, be conscious about the planet and its conservation, support the local communities you visit, and value the locals’ place and cosmovision. This industry lets us take something special with us and leave something good behind. I think Responsible Tourism positively impacts people and territories and promotes sustainable development.
What is your favorite destination that we offer?
It is not an easy answer and just one place to mention. I love the Maritimes, it is just an outstanding destination, Atlantic Canada is known for its beautiful National Parks, unique wildlife, fascinating history, and, of course, an abundance of fresh seafood to dine on. Basically, all you need!
Where would you like to visit next?
I would love to go and explore the Northern Territories and Yukon. I am motivated to go and feel their mystery and majestic beauty. I am tempted by amazing views of the Tundra, glaciers, wildlife, heritage rivers, and the Northern Lights.
Outside of Anderson Vacations, what do you like to do?
I am an outdoor person, and I love sports, I used to play in a minor soccer league in Ecuador but now I enjoy playing tennis, running, and biking around the amazing trails that you can find everywhere in Canada. I am a social person so having a great BBQ with friends and family is a great plan. Finally, as a good Latin, I savor Latin music and dance some salsa.
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Vasil Vladinski
Operations Manager
vvladinski@andersonvacations.ca
778-475-8263
After achieving honors in his “Travel and Tourism” program at SAIT, Vasil spend two years learning the ropes of the Travel Industry as a Travel Agent with Marlin Travel. Vasil joined Anderson Vacations in 2007 as part of the Tour Team and spent the first two years in our Escorted Tour Division helping our Travellers chose the perfect guided tour for them. After moving to the FIT team Vasil quickly found out his passion was to create customize travel experiences for our clients in Canada. In 2009 Vasil was an integral part of starting the South Pacific Division of Anderson Vacations, which has now grown to represent roughly 40% of our passengers. Vasil has been lucky enough to experience many different destinations over the years including unique experiences in the South Pacific, Australia, New Zealand and almost all provinces and Territories of Canada.
What do you love most about the Tourism Industry?
The people! Regardless of how I have met them the connections I have made along the way are the best part of my job. Every single destination that I have visited and every experience I have taken has led me to meeting some amazing people and I have always worked hard to ensure we highlight their culture and travel product and match it to the right clients. I have worked with Travel Suppliers in Canada from Coast to Coast to Coast and so many more from Australia and New Zealand and the South Pacific Islands who are so passionate about their travel destinations that I try to embody this passion and pass it on to our clients. I love working with our travellers to ensure that we create the perfect experience for them. “Travel” Means something completely different to every single person. It could be a long waited trip to see relatives; It can be a retreat from the busy life into a remote wilderness lodge; it can be satisfying the thirst for knowledge and immersing yourself in new cultures; it could be the search of a new thrill like diving with the sharks or climbing the Peaks of the Rockies; It could be losing yourself on the white sandy beaches, or finding yourself again with a new spiritual experience. “Travel” is so personal and I enjoy finding that connection with every client we have and ensuring that they get exactly what they are looking for from their travel experience.
What are your favorite destinations that we offer?
There can’t be just one favourite destination. The beautiful part about Travel is that you can visit a destination over and over and every time it can be different based on your experience. I am a firm believer that every single place I have visited holds a special spot in my heart because of my experiences and the people I have met. I have “ran into” a super pod of 70 killer whales, taken the train through the Rocky Mountains, Admired the Rocky Peaks from a helicopter ride, walked on glaciers, learnt about the people and rich history of the prairies, visited one of the many festivals in Toronto including the Film Festival, Experienced the living history of Ottawa, Rendezvous with History in Montreal and Quebec while walking the cobble stones of the old towns, experienced the hospitality of the people of Atlantic Canada; and immersed myself in the culture of the people of the Canadian Territories. I have enjoyed the white beaches of the South Pacific, and personally learnt about the rich culture of the Indigenous People of Australia and New Zealand. The thrills of white water rafting, bungy jumping, jet boating and free falling has had my adrenaline pumping while the calm beaches and aquatic experiences in the South Pacific has always managed to bring me peace and complete feeling of calm. And if after reading this you can chose a favourite destination, then you are a lot better at this than me!
Where would you like to visit next?
I have had the pleasure of exploring many destinations in Europe, however, I have not been to Italy. I have always wanted to drive the Italian Coast and is definitely something that is high on my priority list.
What is your favourite travel itinerary that you have put together?
My favourite itinerary I have put together was a complete South Pacific experiences for 2 of my clients. They started their holiday with a stay in the Cook Islands, discovering the many beautiful beaches of Rarotonga and Aitutaki, before arriving in Auckland and driving through the Bay of Islands and the Coromandel Peninsula. After some “Black Water Rafting” in Waitomo, the clients combined cultural immersions in Rotorua with some relaxation time in the “Polynesian Spa”. After sampling some of New Zealand’s finest wines in Napier and Wellington the clients took a guided multi day walk through the Queen Charlotte Track before kayaking the pristine waters of the Abel Tasman Peninsula. They heli hiked through the peaks of Franz Josef before exploring the beautiful fjords of Milford Sound on their overnight cruise. They started their Australia portion of the trip in style by taking in the “Red Carpet” experience at the Sydney Opera House, before driving up to Byron Bay for some private Surfing Lessons. They took a Four Wheel Drive Tour of the largest sand island in the world – Fraser Island , before spending a 3 night sailing experience through the Whitsunday Islands. After Scuba Diving at the Great Barrier Reef they flew to the Red Centre and learnt about the importance of Uluru from their local Indigenous guide. After learning about the world war 2 history of Darwin, the clients experienced the jumping crocodiles in Kakadu National Park and the stunning scenery of the Katherine Gorge. Following this were some amazing experiences in Western Australia including swimming with the whale sharks and the dolphins of Monkey Mia. After a few days on the world renowned Indian Pacific train, the clients arrived in Adelaide, where they enjoyed the wines of the Barossa Valley and the wildlife and scenery of Kangaroo Island. Having traveled all that way, they had to visit Tasmania and see the famous “devils” and explore the beauty of Wine Glass Bay and Cradle Mountain National Park. Their trip ended with a great visit to Melbourne and Philp Island for the famous Penguin Parade.
Outside of Anderson Vacations, what do you like to do?
I am fortunate enough to live in what I consider the most beautiful place on earth and enjoy exploring the many mountain hiking trails, beautiful beaches with my wife and kids.
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Robyn Roshuk
Travel Sales Specialist
rroshuk@andersonvacations.ca
825-540-7606
Robyn was born and raised in a small town in Northern Alberta called Peace River. She was looking at opportunities that would help her explore the world, and that is when she decided to take a job onboard a Carnival Cruise Ship. Robyn spent close to 4 years enjoying the ship life and seeing beautiful ports. Upon returning to ‘normal’ life, she knew that she wanted to continue her hospitality and tourism industry career. So, she moved to Calgary to attend SAIT college for the Travel & Tourism program. She is eager to continue growing her knowledge and is excited to be a part of the Anderson team.
What do you love most about the Tourism Industry?
I love that there is always something new to learn and that no two days are the same.
What are your favourite destinations that we offer?
I have always had a love for Australia, and it is somewhere I would go back again and again.
Where would you like to visit next?
I want to visit the east coast of Canada and Southeast Asia.
Outside Anderson Vacations, what do you like to do?
I love spending time with my beautiful Boxer dog and taking her to new places around the Calgary area. I also enjoy baking, shopping, and spending time with friends or family.
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Sara Howze
Travel Sales Specialist
showze@andersonvacations.ca
403-245-6200
Born in Calgary, Alberta I have had the opportunity to travel all over Canada and have spent many years living in the beautiful Maritimes! After traveling abroad to 26 different countries, I knew that the travel industry is where I belong. In 2015 I enrolled into SAIT’s Travel and Tourism program to learn the skills I needed to be successful in the travel industry. After graduation, I spent 6 years as travel agent and have since joined the team here at Anderson Vacations where I look forward to supporting Canadian Travel!
What do you love most about the Tourism Industry?
Travel is a unique experience and as we learn more about the world around us, we often learn more about ourselves. The tourism industry is made up of amazing people with amazing stories. I love making connections with people and trading stories to learn more about the world that we all share.
What is your favorite destination that we offer?
My favorite destination that Anderson Vacations offers is the Maritimes. Having grown up in New Brunswick I have spent many summers exploring Nova Scotia and PEI. I love that we sell tours that allow me to talk about my home!
Where would you like to visit next?
As I am always planning my next trip, this is an ever-changing answer! Today I would say that at the top of my list would be New Zealand to see the glow-worm caves and visit the Shire!
Outside of Anderson Vacations, what do you like to do?
My hobbies include cooking, gardening, reading, and writing. When not working or traveling you can find me in the mountains camping and hiking.
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Harsh Modi
Group Operations Coordinator
hmodi@andersonvacations.ca
403-245-6200
I was born in India, and relocated to Canada after I turned 18. After finishing my Hospitality Management Degree in Humber, I moved to Alberta. Mostly I have been working in Hotels and exploring Banff and surrounding areas. After I moved to Calgary, I decided to use that knowledge and passion that I have for the Hospitality and Tourism Industry with Anderson Vacations.
What do you love most about the Tourism Industry?
I love that the Travel Industry is always exciting. Meeting new people! Going to some place new is always challenging and exciting! It certainly will help me visiting the places I want to and escape everyday reality for a short time.
What is your favorite destination that we offer?
There are so many options. But Rockies! I have lived in the heart of it for so many years and seen all the beauty mother nature has to offer.
Where would you like to visit next?
For my next visit I would love to go to Europe.
Outside of Anderson Vacations, what do you like to do?
Outside Anderson Vacations, I love spending time with my family and I love playing shooting games. In my free time, I will always plan my next trip.
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Krysti Ptolemy
Travel Sales Specialist
kptolemy@andersonvacations.ca
825-540-7607
Born in Saskatoon, my parents relocated me out to Alberta for my dad’s job. Travelling back and forth between Alberta and Saskatchewan instilled an appreciation for travel in me. Growing up there were often family road trips in Canada and the USA and then a couple of destination trips into the Caribbean. I have always loved experiencing cultures and destinations. As an adult I have continued to travel and have added several countries in Europe to my travelled to list, travel which has increased my yen for new experiences and places.
What do you love most about the Tourism Industry?
I love that there are countless different destinations and cultures to experience all over the world. There is something for everyone and endless experiences to discover. It is an industry where the people who are involved love travel and everything that encompasses it, creating lasting impressions for visitors.
What are your favorite destinations that we offer?
We offer some of the most fascinating destinations available, how is a person to pick a favourite?! Canada alone has so much variety to offer! My favourite Canadian experience would have to be a weekend wedding at Fogo Island Inn in Newfoundland. I have never been someplace where staff are so helpful and excited to have you stay with them.
Where would you like to visit next?
I would love to visit New Zealand; it has been on my bucket list for years.
Outside Anderson Vacations, what do you like to do?
I enjoy getting out and hiking in Kananaskis with my fiancé and our dogs. The Rockies are basically on our doorstep, it would be a shame to not get out and enjoy it as much as possible.
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Tiffany Roberts
Travel Sales Specialist
troberts@andersonvacations.ca
778-475-8261
Tiffany was born in Vancouver, and grew up in Abbotsford, B.C. She has been working in the hospitality industry for the past 8 years but she has always had an interest in the travel industry. Having travelled around North America & Central America, she is excited to gain knowledge about the South Pacific. As she is just entering the Travel Industry, she is eager to absorb as much knowledge as she can.
Why are you in the Travel business?
While working in hotels one of my favourite positions was as a reservation agent because I was helping people plan part of their vacation. It was always fulfilling to hear how excited they were to be coming to the property I was working at. In the travel business instead of just 1 or 2 nights of their vacation I am helping them plan everything. Every day is something different and I love being able to help someone\'s idea become a reality.
What are your Favorite destinations that we offer?
Canada has so many beautiful places to explore. The beautiful city of Vancouver, the many lakes and wineries of the Okanagan, The Rocky Mountains, Niagara Falls, The architecture in Old Montreal, Ottawa and Quebec City, or the views in the Maritimes. Australia and New Zealand look so beautiful with so many places to explore. I love every destination that we offer.
Tell us about a unique travel experience you have had?
Every place that I have travelled to has been a unique experience. Relaxing on the lake or going on a wine tour in the Okanagan. Sightseeing in Victoria, Vancouver and Kelowna. Being able to explore Old Montreal, enjoy some amazing food and meet many friendly people.
Tell us about your favorite itinerary that you have put together?
My favorite itinerary I have put together was for a family that wanted to travel from Vancouver to Halifax by train. On the way from Vancouver to Halifax they spent two nights in Jasper, Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal, Quebec City and Halifax. In Jasper they went on a tour of the Columbia Icefields and on the Ice Explorer. In Toronto they went on a day tour to Niagara Falls, went on the Hornblower and to the Ripley\'s Aquarium. In Ottawa they took a double Decker style trolley bus to explore the sights and went to the Art Gallery. In Montreal they went for a three course dinner at Restaurant Du Vieux Port Montreal, participated in a walking tour of Old Montreal and went on a coach tour of the city. In Quebec City they went on a coach tour to the Beaupre Coast and Montmorency Falls and took a helicopter tour. In Halifax they went on a tour to see Peggy\'s Cove and went on a coach tour of Halifax.
Outside of Anderson Vacations, what do you like to do?
Outside of Anderson Vacations, you will find me spending time with my husband and dog. In the summer I will be out exploring the Okanagan and relaxing at one of the many beaches we have to choose from.
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Paula Osborne
Travel Sales Specialist
posborne@andersonvacations.ca
778-475-8262
Born in Ontario, travelled to Alberta, and relocated to British Columbia at the age of 19. I spent two years living and working in Banff, Alberta, then found my way to the Okanagan, British Columbia. I spent two years in Tahsis, Vancouver Island in the hospitality industry, a year living in Haida Gwaii, returning to the lower mainland, then relocating to the Okanagan and it has been home ever since. I have worked in the travel industry for over 25 years. I have always had a passion for Travel ever since my first train travel experience across Canada. I thoroughly enjoy the cultural experiences and knowledge one gains, travelling to various destinations. I am eager to learn as much knowledge as I can.
Why are you in the travel business?
Having worked both in the hospitality industry and the travel industry, I have always been interested in travelling and learning about different places and being able to experience the cultures. I have enjoyed many aspects of the travel industry, from Corporate clients to vacation clients. I enjoy helping travellers put together their unique travel ideas so that it becomes a memorable experience. Every day and every itinerary is something different, and I enjoy being able to help create an enjoyable travel itinerary. Travel makes you realize that no matter how much you know, there’s always more to learn and experience.
What are your Favorite destinations that we offer?
We offer so many great destinations, that it is very hard to choose a favourite. From the beautiful city of Vancouver, through the Okanagan and the beauty of the Rockies to Niagara Falls, and the vibrant cities of Toronto, Old Montreal and Quebec City to the Maritimes. To the experience of the Northern Lights, Australia, New Zealand, and the South Pacific Islands have so much to offer and experience.
Where would you like to visit next?
I would like to visit the Yukon and explore the area and see the Northern Lights, and or explore the Maritime Provinces, as it has been many years since I have visited here.
Tell us about a unique travel experience you have had?
Each and every destination that I have travelled to, has been a unique experience, from the vastness of the Rockies, Lake Louise and the beautiful surroundings, to experiencing the culture and traditions in Haida Gwaii, along with the most amazing fishing experience.
Tell us about your favourite itinerary that you have put together?
My favourite itinerary that I have put together was for a gentleman who wanted to surprise his wife for their 40th anniversary. It started out with a few nights in Victoria, a visit to Buchart Gardens, continuing on to explore the sights of Vancouver, with excursions to through Stanley Park, the Capilano Suspension bridge, the famous Grouse Mountain Skyridge, then onboard the Rocky Mountaineer to explore the Rockies, beginning in Jasper. They explored the Maligne Lake, took in the Jasper Skytram, and the Columbia Icefields, ending up in Banff, with sightseeing to Lake Louise, Moraine Lake, before ending their journey in Calgary.
Outside of Anderson Vacations, what do you like to do?
Outside of Anderson Vacations, in the summer months, you will find me enjoying the Sunny Okanagan, out paddleboarding on one of the lakes. In the winter months, you will find me out snowshoeing on one of the many trails we have to offer and planning my next adventure.
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accounts@andersonvacations.ca
403-245-6200
My name is Farhad. I have been working in accounting field in different companies for several years. As I love travelling and visiting new places, I decided to use my experiences and passion in tourism industry, and I am so pleased that I could be part of the great Anderson Vacation team.
What do you love most about the Tourism Industry?
I like the tourism industry because it helps me develop myself professionally and as a person. Not only do I improve on my professional skills, but I also learn more due to the variety of colleagues and clients, and I can get to know different cultures.
What are your favorite destinations that we offer?
The East of Canada such as Halifax, Nova Scotia, Prince Edvard Island,...
Where would you like to visit next?
Australia, Because of great Australian Weather, Nature and Wildlife.
Outside of Anderson Vacations, what do you like to do?
I like reading, spending time with my family, and travelling.
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Jeanica Padilla
Group Sales Specialist
jpadilla@andersonvacations.ca
587-349-5960
I was born and raised in the Philippines and moved to Canada when I was 17. I’ve been in the travel and tourism industry ever since I moved here. I finished my program at SAIT and after graduating I was able to get different jobs in the tourism industry. When the pandemic hit, it had a negative impact in the travel and hospitality industry but I was lucky to get a job at Anderson Vacations. Although I haven’t really travelled much, I am looking forward to doing it soon.
What do you love most about the Tourism Industry?
What I love the most about the Tourism industry is not just learning about the different places but meeting new people from different places and learning about their different cultures as well.
What are your favorite destinations that we offer?
So many to choose from but I think my favourite so far is the Rockies and the West Coast.
Where would you like to visit next?
I would like to visit Alaska and New Zealand.
Outside Anderson Vacations, what do you like to do?
When I’m not working, I love crafting and taking videos and edit them for youtube. It’s something I am passionate about.
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Wesley Roe
Operations Coordinator
wroe@andersonvacations.ca
778.475.8262
Wesley was born in California, grew up in Florida, then moved to join her extended family in Alberta at the age of 17. After graduating from the University of Alberta she spent a few years travelling around Asia and the South Pacific. She spent some time living in the UK, New Zealand and Japan before finally returning to Alberta.
Why are you in the travel business?
Travel is my passion! I owe so much of who I am and what I\'ve achieved to travel. So it was only natural to find a career where I can share my passion and experience with others. I want to help everyone explore the world and have experiences as incredible as I\'ve had!
What are your favourite destinations that we offer?
New Zealand is definitely a favourite as it has such natural beauty. Pair that with the amazing people and chance to learn about Maori culture, and you have an incredible destination! Within Canada, Yellowknife and Haida Gwaii are the most exciting to me. Yellowknife offers the ability to watch the magical northern lights dance across the sky, while Haida Gwaii lets you immerse yourself in ancient forests and culture.
Tell us about a unique travel experience you have had?
I had an unforgettable experience in Lake Tekapo in New Zealand. Lake Tekapo is part of a UNESCO Dark Sky Reserve, so it offers some amazing stargazing experiences. First, we viewed planets and distant stars through high powered telescopes while learning about astronomy and how the Maori used to navigate by the stars. Then we entered the hot pools to lie in floating hammocks while looking up at the night sky. Our guide told us stories of Maori legends while we stared at the millions of stars. Floating in the hot water while soaking in the universe laid bare before I was an experience I\'ll never forget.
Tell us about your favourite itinerary that you have put together?
My favourite itinerary so far was a trip around Quebec. The group explored Quebec\'s beauty by enjoying the province\'s wonderful local cuisine. They stayed in some of the most beautiful properties and explored the charming historic neighbourhoods. We even included some unique experiences like dining in complete darkness. This was definitely an itinerary that made me want to go on it too!
Outside of AV what do you like to do?
I love finding new recipes to cook and playing board games. In the summer nothing beats spending time with my family at the lake cabin.
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Pamela Parks
Senior Lead of Group Operations
pparks@andersonvacations.ca
587-349-5970
I was born in Calgary, Alberta and grew up across Canada from the East to West coast with my family. As an adult, I travelled in Canada, the Caribbean, and the United States. I enjoyed immersing myself in the culture and local activities everywhere I have been. My professional background is 15 years in Hotel Management and after my first and only child, I decided to switch my occupation from hotels to Travel and Tourism. I enjoy meeting new people, learning new skills, and look forward to expanding my travels over the pond. I am very excited to have joined the Family at Anderson Vacations!
What do you love most about the Tourism Industry?
Never a dull moment! Each day is never the same as the last and you\'re continuously learning and growing.
What is your favorite destination that we offer?
As for where I have been as my favorite, I would say Vancouver. For a favorite destination that we offer that I have not been, Newfoundland.
Where would you like to visit next?
I would be grateful to be able to walk the Great Wall of China (or shall I say some of it).
Outside of Anderson Vacations, what do you like to do?
I love spending Family time, camping, going to the lake, boating, picnics, bbq\'s. I always have music playing in my house and am looking for the next good show to go to.
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Melissa Vladinski
FIT Operations Consultant
mvladinski@andersonvacations.ca
I grew up in Alberta and graduated with honors from SAIT’s Travel and Tourism Program in 2007. After graduating, I spent 10 years as both a leisure and corporate travel consultant. I’ve traveled all over North America, Europe, New Zealand, the South Pacific, and the Caribbean. I have since relocated with my family to beautiful British Columbia, which has always been one of our favorite vacation destinations.
What do you love most about the Tourism Industry?
Gaining travel knowledge, learning about different cultures and nationalities, and getting to experience new destinations.
What is your favorite destination that we offer?
I’ve enjoyed every place that I’ve visited, but New Zealand will always hold a special place in my heart!
Where would you like to visit next?
Tahiti and New Zealand.
Outside of Anderson Vacations, what do you like to do?
Exploring the many beaches of the Okanagan Valley, while spending time with my family.
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Jessie Loucks
Marketing Assistant
jloucks@andersonvacations.ca
Hailing from the Capital city of Canada, Jessie has been working in tourism for the last decade. From the raging Ottawa River to the ski hills of the Rockies, adventure tourism is her passion. She moved to Canmore in 2016 to work at Sunshine Village in Banff. After 5 years of seasonal work, she has joined Anderson Vacations for a stable year round position within the Marketing team.
What do you love most about the Tourism Industry?
Adventure tourism is my go to. Rafting a rocky river or climbing a big mountain are my go-to activities when travelling. There\'s nothing like dropping into your soft bed after a long day trip.
What are your favourite destinations that we offer?
Canmore and the Rockies will always have a special place in my heart. After 5 years living in Canmore\'s alpenglow, I gained extra appreciation and knowledge about the area.
Where would you like to visit next?
New Zealand - Not only for the incredible landscapes, I have friends I met working in tourism that I need to visit!
Outside Anderson Vacations, what do you like to do?
Anything outdoors. Rafting, biking, hiking, etc. I also like video games and sewing.
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Zach Harrison
Product Specialist
zharrison@andersonvacations.ca
Born and raised in Winnipeg, Zach is a foodie with a passion for trying new culinary experiences. His food adventures have taken him to the USA, Mexico, Jamaica, Ecuador, and the Caribbean.
What do you love most about the Tourism Industry?
I love how the Tourism Industry encourages diversity from people of all backgrounds and ages to come together to learn more about destinations, cultures and themselves.
What are your favourite destinations that we offer?
The combination of the auroras and unique food experiences make the Northwest Territories and the Yukon my favourite.
Where would you like to visit next?
Costa Rica - The plant life makes for some interesting dinners!
Outside Anderson Vacations, what do you like to do?
I like to make from scratch sourdough bread and pizzas!
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Jim Warren
US Groups Specialist
jwarren@andersonvacations.ca
308-234-4348
Jim has been a member of the travel industry for over 50 years and has been involved with many Canadian and American Travel organizations including Brennan Vacations, Exclusively Canada, Tourism Vancouver and Rocky Mountaineer. He is the retiring Chair for the National Tour Association and an active board member of the Travel Alliance Partners (TAP). Jim is Anderson Vacations\' Director of Business Development in the United States and currently lives in Kearney Nebraska with his wife Terree.
What do you love most about the Tourism Industry?
Without a doubt the thing I love most about the Tourism Industry is the amazing, creative and resilient people who make our industry work and often become lifelong friends
What are your favourite destinations that we offer?
My favourite Anderson Vacations destinations include Atlantic Canada, Quebec, Canada\'s North and New Zealand
Where would you like to visit that you haven\'t travelled to before?
I have a passion for the Canadian North and am looking forward to cruising the Arctic with our great partner Adventure Canada. I look forward to the opportunity to viewing amazing wildlife, meeting with the indigenous people and learning much more about the environment and climate changes
Tell us about a unique travel experience that you have had?
Fresh in my memory is an amazing 26-day tour I managed in October of this year. The group was from Australia and had already been on a 12- Day Alaska Tour & Cruise before they arrived in Vancouver. The trip covered BC, Alberta, Washington, Oregon, Nevada and California. The group was very active and was always looking for hiking opportunities. We hiked for 10 km along the ocean shore in Oregon, to the top of a 3500 M fire road at Lake Tahoe, and along a spectacular 8km ridge trail in Yosemite. Most dinner arrangements were made spontaneously and took us to a variety of eating facilities including a 120 year old cookhouse, a 140 year old hotel in Yosemite and a cook-out on a rugged Oregon Beach. Action activities included jet boat trips on the Blue and Rogue Rivers, Dune Buggies in Oregon, tree top walking in the Redwoods and Zip Lining in Whistler! Most evenings ended including group card games, joke telling, singing and lots of amber refreshment. What a great trip!
Tell us about your favourite itinerary that you have put together
I love travel by rail. This year I had the opportunity to craft a tour for a group coming from Sweden that includes Toronto, Ottawa, Montreal and Quebec City - all connected on VIA Rail Business Class. The tour features Fairmont Hotels and includes several private walking tours and gourmet dining/wine related evenings. The group then flies to Calgary for some time in the Rockies before boarding Rocky Mountaineer (Gold Leaf) to Vancouver. An additional 6 days will be spent exploring Vancouver, Whistler, Vancouver Island and Victoria before connecting with an Alaska Cruise. The itinerary also includes rafting, whale watching, zip-lining and other action activities across the country. It is an amazing tour that has been customized for 16 passengers who will truly get to experience Canada at its best.
Outside of Anderson Vacations, what do you like to do?
I have a great enjoyment of music of all genres, traveling to \"the next place\" and spending as much time as possible with my granddaughters.
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Adrienne Currie
Marketing Manager
acurrie@andersonvacations.ca
587-349-5969
Adrienne grew up in Campbell River on Vancouver Island, before relocating to Calgary Alberta as a young adult. After graduating from the Travel & Tourism program at SAIT, she spent 10 years as a travel advisor, and travelled to destinations in the US, Caribbean, and Europe. She particularly enjoys exploring natural beauty and picturesque towns. After taking a few years off from travel with young children at home, she is excited to rejoin the travel industry in a marketing position.
What do you love most about the Tourism Industry?
I love to inspire people to discover the beauty and uniqueness of each corner of our world!
What is your favorite destination that we offer?
Having grown up on Vancouver Island, there is a special place in my heart for its beaches and other natural beauties.
Where would you like to visit next?
New Zealand is at the top of my list – so much variety to experience in one small country!
Outside of Anderson Vacations, what do you like to do?
Sewing is my creative outlet, and when I’m not sewing clothes, I love to curl up with a good book.
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Pamela Schewe
Tour Leader
bookings@andersonvacations.ca
As a full-time tour leader, I am lucky to spend part of my year touring groups around the globe but am never more happy to return each summer season to show people around Western Canada and beyond. Being able to share my home country and more specifically, my own ‘neighbourhood\' within it, is such an honour. Nothing feels better than turning a corner and hearing guests behind me breathlessly exclaiming “wowâ€!
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bookings@andersonvacations.ca
Willo is heading into her 25th year of taking guests on incredible journeys. She loves the Stampede City of Calgary with its western heritage. Being a Calgarian by birth, her passion definitely lies in the ten-day festival that draws people from around the world who gather to enjoy the rodeo, chuckwagon races and all the other festivities that make up the famous Calgary Stampede. She also loves teaching her granddaughter to sew.
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bookings@andersonvacations.ca
403-245-6200
Anita\'s lifelong passion for travel led her first to become a certified travel agent and started out her career in travel as a passenger agent at the Vancouver International Airport. She quickly moved on to become a Tour Guide and Driver for a Vancouver based sightseeing company, Landsea Tours, and honed her public relations skills. Wanting to broaden her horizons she took a position with the Royal Hudson Steam train as a hostess and narrator. In 1994 she took a position as a Tour Director for a UK based company and never looked back. She has been leading travelers through Canada and the Rockies, United States, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, Ireland, Scandinavia, Central America, Mexico, Costa Rica, Columbia, Guatemala, Morocco, Italy, Spain, Portugal, France, Gibraltar and the Western Caribbean. She is inspired by the people she meets, the beauty of nature and her quest is to continue adding to her list of countries visited. Whether on a train, cruiseship or motorcoach tour, Anita\'s joyful personality lends to an enjoyable and memorable travel experience.
Why are you in the travel business?
My love for travel goes right back to childhood. I have always had the desire to travel, see the world, explore new cultures and meet new people. Travel is a passion for me so to work as a Tour Director was the perfect way for me to learn the about all aspects of travel and meet people from all around the world.
What are your favourite destinations that we offer?
My favourite destinations? Do I have to pick just a few? I love nature and what it has to offer so my favourite destinations in my own back yard are the Canadian Rockies and Alaska with majestic mountain peaks and glaciers. I am also a huge sun worshipper so love the tropics and my favourites are Fiji, the Cook Islands and Rarotonga! There really is nothing like the beautiful aqua waters that lap at the soft sandy beaches and palm trees that sway in the breeze.
Tell us about a unique travel experience that you have had?
To me all experiences are unique and different. However a couple do stand out a bit more than others. They are when I had the privilege of hugging a dolphin in Jamaica and holding a stingray in my arms in the Cayman Islands.
Outside of Anderson Vacations, what do you like to do?
Similar to our founder and President Corey Marshall, I love to think outside the box. When I am not leading tours for Anderson Vacations, I love assisting others in learning how to shift limiting beliefs and patterns to assist them in their personal growth and evolution and ultimately how to consciously create their realties. In my spare time, I enjoy quiet time in nature, pursuing my passion of metaphysics, and exploring culinary creations.
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Neil Van Der Putten
Tour Leader
bookings@andersonvacations.ca
Born in Halifax and raised in the Maritimes I have lived 22 years in Atlantic Canada before moving to western Canada in 1977. I have lived and worked in Alberta for some 42 years, where I developed a strong interest in out-door mountain adventure while working a career with the Federal Government and running my own house building company. I joined the Canadian Ski Patrol and worked as a volunteer providing first aid to injured skiers in a mountain environment, for some 20 years, in and around the Canadian Rockies. After leaving the Ski Patrol, I became a member of the Canadian Alpine Club of Canada, leading small groups into backcountry mountain adventures. These experiences developed my interest to become a professional certified tour director/guide doing tours across Canada, showing others all what this great country has to offer.
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bookings@andersonvacations.ca
403-245-6200
Travel and an interest in the world has always been a passion of Carol\'s, starting out with family car trips when she was young, to ocean and river cruises, to adventure travel, to coach tours, to travelling on her own in Europe for weeks at a time. Carol has visited over 45 countries and 6 continents. When an opportunity presented itself to be able to share this passion with others as a Tour Director, she couldn\'t wait to get started. As a graduate of ITMI (International Tour Management Institute) in San Francisco in 2000, she has led tours for over 13 years to Canada\'s Maritimes, Eastern Canada, Alaska and the Yukon, California, Oregon and Washington as well as the Canadian and American Rockies. Carol also specializes in local City tours for groups coming into Calgary, Banff and Jasper.
Why are you in the travel business?
I work in the travel business for lots of reasons: to have fun, to see places I have always dreamed of, to meet new people, to learn and to have my preconceived notions challenged. Sharing these reasons with others has helped to make me appreciate that others are also keen to share their ideas and their dreams as well. As an Interpreter/Tour Guide at Heritage Park in Calgary, I am able to help visitors understand our local history and to appreciate that the past has not \"passed\" and that it affects our daily life, culture, and values.
What are your favourite destinations that we offer?
The Golden Gate City, Oregon Coast and Pacific North West, Yellowstone and Canyonlands. Best of the Great Canadian Rockies and Beautiful British Columbia.
Tell us about a unique travel experience you have had?
I recently travelled to the Canadian War Cemeteries in France, Belgium and Holland and found that it was a very moving experience to realize the scope of both World Wars and how they affected our lives for more than one hundred years and still affect us to this day.
I also travelled on a Lewis and Clark tour that traced the path that the explorers took along the Missouri River from Saint Louis, Missouri to Astoria, Oregon. It was amazing to be able to stand where they stood and know that the scenery had changed very little over 200 years and that their discoveries and actions affected the development of the United States and Canada.
Travelling to Greenland and Iceland was a marvelous learning experience. Being able to observe a wedding taking place with Inuit and Danish residents was very unique and yet familiar.
Tell us about your favourite itinerary that you have put together?
\"The Canadian Rockies from an Insider\'s Viewpoint\" was my favorite itinerary to develop and then conduct the tour. The group was all Americans and they were thrilled to go to places that only the locals know about and to learn about what it is like to be Canadian and to live in our harsh climate. They learned how our two countries are different, yet similar in many ways.
Outside of Anderson Vacations, what do you like to do?
My love of history has allowed me to work as a Historical Interpreter at Heritage Park in Calgary, where I train and supervise a team of Tour Guides who conduct tours for groups coming to the park. In addition, I am an avid reader of history, world affairs and travel writing, plus I enjoy hiking in the Rockies and travelling yearly to England to visit museums that are off the beaten track and to visit with friends i have made through various tour experiences.
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