From Radio to Runway: Trevello’s Mike Allard Celebrates Seven Years in the Industry

For Mike Allard, owner of Mallard Travel, storytelling has always been second nature. After more than three decades as a radio broadcaster, the Trevello advisor traded the microphone for a passport — and seven years later, he’s celebrating a successful travel business.

“Seven years ago today, I opened Mallard Travel for the first time,” Allard told Travel Market Report Canada at Air Canada Vacation’s 50^th Anniversary bash in Cancun.

“My first client booked within 48 hours — I made $111, and I was absolutely thrilled. I knew I was off and running.”

Before stepping into the world of travel, Allard spent 35 years in Canadian radio, hosting and programming stations in Ontario, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia. “Radio and travel aren’t as different as you’d think,” he laughs. “Both are about connecting with people and telling great stories. In travel, you’re just helping your clients write their own.”

When corporate restructuring ended his broadcast career, Allard took time to reflect on what came next. “I wanted something that kept me creative and connected. A mentor suggested travel advising — and it just clicked.”

Today, Allard’s business thrives on relationships, especially his strong partnership with Air Canada Vacations.

“ACV is a huge part of my business — easily the lion’s share of my all-inclusive bookings,” he says. “They’ve been making dreams come true for 50 years, and I’m proud to be part of that legacy. Whether it’s a family’s annual winter getaway or someone’s once-in-a-lifetime trip, ACV helps make it happen.”

Allard credits ACV Andrea Arkell, Key Accounts Manager for Independent Advisors, ACV@Home and her team at ACV as key allies. 

“Andrea has been there for me in critical moments and that kind of support is worth its weight in gold,” he says. “Any agent can book a trip, but when something goes wrong, having a partner who helps you find answers quickly makes all the difference.”

Allard’s model is diverse: about 40% all-inclusives, 30–40% cruise, and the rest a mix of FIT and corporate travel. He’s quick to note how client expectations have evolved.

“Travel is more complex than ever, with new entry requirements, changing airline policies, and evolving destinations,” he explains. “People still want that one-on-one connection. They want an expert they can trust.”

And business? “Busier than I’ve ever been,” he admits. “I could work 12 to 15 hours a day, seven days a week — and love every minute of it. The greater service you deliver, the more referrals come your way. It’s self-propelling.”

Allard says “Girlfriend getaways are huge right now, professional women who just need to reconnect and celebrate life. I’m also seeing more multi-generational travel and couples upgrading their vacations to more refined experiences, especially in Mexico and the Caribbean.”

A self-proclaimed late bloomer to travel — his first flight abroad wasn’t until his 40s — Allard has now explored much of the Caribbean, Europe, and beyond. He’s a big believer in firsthand experience.

“River cruising completely changed my business model,” he says. “It almost doubled my income. Once you get on board and truly understand the product, you sell it differently — with confidence and passion.”

Allard credits his wife, Lydia — who works in long-term care — for her understanding and support. “She joins me on a few special trips each year,” he says. “When you’re 100% commission, you work when the money’s there. I like to say, work hard when you have to and play hard when you can.”

It’s a mantra that’s carried him from radio studios to runways around the world. And as he celebrates seven successful years in travel, Allard remains as passionate as ever.

“The world’s a big place,” he says. “Every time I think I’ve seen a lot, I realize I’ve barely scratched the surface. There’s always a new chapter waiting — for me and for my clients.”