KUSA CAST:
Kusa Cast is an insightful and inspiring podcast for anyone in the tourism industry, hosted by Graeme Watson.
Our episodes feature interviews with top leaders from around the world as we discuss the challenges faced during Covid and the innovative ways businesses are bouncing back. From business leaders to tour operators, we explore the diverse roles within the tourism industry and highlight the importance of positivity and collaboration in overcoming obstacles.
Tune in to Kusa Cast to stay informed, motivated and equipped to navigate the tourism industry in this new era.
ABOUT THE HOST:
Graeme Watson is the founder of a UK-based tourism representation company, Kusa Connect, which helps tourism businesses around the world showcase their experiences to the UK travel trade. Graeme is a seasoned professional in the tourism industry with 15 years of experience in the field and has lived and worked in the UK, South Africa, and the USA, where he has developed a deep understanding of the international tourism market and what the expectations are from a trip to Africa.
His extensive travel experience, having visited over 65 countries, has also given him a unique perspective on the diverse offerings of destinations across the globe.
Graeme holds a BA Degree in Media and Communications, which has been a valuable asset in his career to effectively communicate and market tourism products and services. He has sat on the Board of Directors of SATSA and served as the Chapter Chair of the KZN Chapter of SATSA which has provided him with valuable industry connections and insight, as well as a platform to contribute to the development and growth of the tourism sector.
With his diverse range of skills and experience, he is well-equipped to help tourism businesses succeed in this competitive market. Graeme is eager to use his knowledge and expertise to help promote and grow tourism businesses.
Graeme can be reached on gw@kusaglobal.com and his website is www.kusaglobal.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
KUSA CAST:
Kusa Cast is an insightful and inspiring podcast for anyone in the tourism industry, hosted by Graeme Watson.
Our episodes feature interviews with top leaders from around the world as we discuss the challenges faced during Covid and the innovative ways businesses are bouncing back. From business leaders to tour operators, we explore the diverse roles within the tourism industry and highlight the importance of positivity and collaboration in overcoming obstacles.
Tune in to Kusa Cast to stay informed, motivated and equipped to navigate the tourism industry in this new era.
ABOUT THE HOST:
Graeme Watson is the founder of a UK-based tourism representation company, Kusa Connect, which helps tourism businesses around the world showcase their experiences to the UK travel trade. Graeme is a seasoned professional in the tourism industry with 15 years of experience in the field and has lived and worked in the UK, South Africa, and the USA, where he has developed a deep understanding of the international tourism market and what the expectations are from a trip to Africa.
His extensive travel experience, having visited over 65 countries, has also given him a unique perspective on the diverse offerings of destinations across the globe.
Graeme holds a BA Degree in Media and Communications, which has been a valuable asset in his career to effectively communicate and market tourism products and services. He has sat on the Board of Directors of SATSA and served as the Chapter Chair of the KZN Chapter of SATSA which has provided him with valuable industry connections and insight, as well as a platform to contribute to the development and growth of the tourism sector.
With his diverse range of skills and experience, he is well-equipped to help tourism businesses succeed in this competitive market. Graeme is eager to use his knowledge and expertise to help promote and grow tourism businesses.
Graeme can be reached on gw@kusaglobal.com and his website is www.kusaglobal.com.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mark Young, co-founder of the Perfections Group, discusses his journey in the travel industry, from backpacking to starting a representation company.
He shares his experience of being made redundant before COVID and how he adapted by taking on different jobs. Mark also talks about the resilience and camaraderie in the tourism industry, the changing habits of UK travellers, and the future of the Perfections Group. He emphasises the importance of collaboration and open-mindedness in the industry. Overall, Mark's story highlights the strength and determination of those in the travel industry to thrive in the face of challenges.
Mark's journey in the travel industry began with his love for travel and backpacking. After working various jobs, he decided to pursue a career in travel and started at a well known travel company. However, he soon realised that product management was his true passion. Mark worked his way up and eventually co-founded the Perfections Group with Ryan Ashton. The company initially focused on representing African lodges but has now expanded to include Latin America and other destinations.
Mark's resilience was put to the test when he was made redundant a year before the pandemic hit. However, he used this time to explore different opportunities. These experiences taught him the importance of perseverance and helped him develop a stronger mindset.
Mark and I discuss the importance of collaboration and supporting one another, even among competitors. We both believe that there is enough business to go around and that working together can benefit everyone. Mark shares his experience of referring clients to other representatives and receiving referrals in return. This collaborative approach not only strengthens relationships but also opens doors to new opportunities.
The pandemic has brought about significant changes in the travel industry. Mark notes that there is currently no clear pattern in travel trends, as people are eager to explore various destinations. Flight availability and cost also play a role in travellers' choices. However, Mark believes that it will take time to fully understand the new normal, as many people are still catching up on missed trips and family visits.
The Perfections Group has diversified its portfolio to include representation for destinations beyond Africa. Mark and his team are open to working with any product that aligns with their expertise and values. They aim to be a one-stop-shop for travel companies, offering services such as revenue management, social media management, and booking offices. The focus remains on building strong relationships and providing personalised support to their clients.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.