TMR Unplugged: Real Talk…. With Delta Vacations’ Kristen
As we kick off the new year, TMR connected with Kristen Molloy, VP of Sales at Delta Vacations. She has been in the industry for 25 years after falling in love with travel when she was younger. She was such a fan of travel that she’d even go the airport just to wander and watch planes take off with her brother. Let’s unplug with Kristen:
What inspired you to work in the travel industry?
When I was young, my grandmother used to let me and my brother take turns picking activities that the three of us would do together. Nearly without exception, I would choose to go to the airport for the day, just to hang out and people watch. This was the days before TSA, and you could wander the gates and watch planes load and takeoff. I was always fascinated by this and wanted to be one of those people setting off to have an adventure and see the world. I guess you could say that even from an early age, travel was in my DNA.
What was your most unexpected request from a guest?
One of my earliest jobs was as a concierge at one of the high-end hotels at Walt Disney World. A lot of famous people stayed there, and it was my job to get them whatever they wanted—from the newest Chanel handbag to dinner reservations at sold out restaurants. However, my most unexpected request was from a guest who needed an urgent package. Unfortunately, the post office was closed for two days. The guest told me quite simply to fix it. Through a lot of perseverance, wrong turns and luck, I made contact with the post office manager who agreed to meet me at 10 PM on a Sunday and opened the Post Office just for me. That was probably my biggest trick.
What is your favorite travel related book or movie?
I have been a huge fan of Paul Theroux’s travel books for years. I discovered him during college and before I could even dream of visiting these places, he took me by train through China, paddling through Oceana and on a grand tour of the Mediterranean. His writing really takes you through the full experience of travel.
What part of your job makes you smile the most?
I love spending time with travel advisors. Their stories of entrepreneurship are always so inspirational. And I truly believe in the work that they are doing. Travel advisors help create the most meaningful and memorable experiences in their clients’ lives. What an amazing career to have.
What’s a common mistake that travelers make, and how can they avoid it?
This may be controversial to some, but I think overplanning is a common mistake. In my perspective, you need to leave time for the magic to happen. Some of the best moments in travel are those we wander into—without a plan or agenda.
What is your favorite destination?
That is a tough one, but I would have to say the west coast of Ireland. The rugged mountains, dramatic coastline and beautiful villages combine to make something really special. Plus, there is always a cozy pub nearby to have a pint or two.
What is your “why” when it comes to your job?
My why is absolutely the people. I love working with travel advisors. And perhaps even more so, the Delta Vacations Sales Team impresses me every day. They are passionate about our clients and help them create exceptional experiences. I never forget how lucky I am lucky to work alongside this group.
What is your favorite childhood memory from a vacation that you took?
We were staying at the Grand Canyon and my Dad and I got up early and hiked to watch the sunrise at Bright Angel Trail. Such a peaceful place of absolute natural beauty. And for me travel is about those peaceful moments. Not the flashy moments, or the social media reels, but travel is celebrating the beauty of the world with the people who walk beside you in life.
What’s your one must-have when flying?
I never travel without a good book. I’ll even save books that I have been looking forward to reading for special trips. If the story is set in the place I am heading to, that’s even better. That way, when I re-read them, they take a part of me back to the first time I read them and the memories of that trip.
What’s a personal travel experience that had a big impact on you?
That would have to be my first big overseas trip. My friend from Morrocco was going home to get married and I was lucky enough to be invited. From the moment we touched down in Marrakesh, I was in awe. Her family took me in as one of their own and I had such memorable experiences on that trip—from the food to the camels to the hammam to the three-day wedding it was incredible. I will never forget the genuine hospitality I experienced from so many strangers on that trip.
