Let’s be honest — Airdrie isn’t exactly a winter hotspot.
When the snow piles up, most of us start dreaming of palm trees or European escapes. I know I do. After years of planning travel for work, sports and family getaways, I’m finally planning a trip that’s just for me. With a milestone birthday approaching, I’m craving a bucket-list escape — equal parts adventure and indulgence.
But planning a meaningful vacation in today’s travel landscape isn’t easy. Between shifting rules, unpredictable weather and endless online options, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s why travel agents are making a strong, strategic comeback, cutting through the clutter to deliver tailored, stress-free adventures.
To find out what’s trending, where people are going and how much it really costs to book through an agent, I spoke with three of Airdrie’s licensed travel experts: Jessica Abramyk, Janna Guay and Jody Malcolm.
Winter escapes book up fast — especially around holidays and school breaks. As demand climbs, so do prices, and waiting for a deal could mean missing out.
That’s where local agents shine: their insider access to hotel brands and tour operators unlocks perks and early booking advantages. If you’re new to using an agent — like I was — go with a certified pro. Experience beats flashy promotions every time.
So where are people heading this winter? Abramyk says longer stays and multi-generational trips are trending. Guay’s clients are craving “different” destinations, not just the usual Mexico or Dominican Republic. And Malcolm sees growing interest in Costa Rica, Belize, Italy and Japan.
Of course, winter travel isn’t without its challenges — delays, surcharges and complex logistics. That’s where local agents prove invaluable.
Abramyk fine tunes clients’ AI-generated itineraries with expert insight. Malcolm has helped clients switch resorts mid-trip or extend their stay. And Guay works with suppliers who offer more than standard mobility accommodations, ensuring every traveller’s needs are met. Together, these agents collaborate with trusted partners to deliver seamless, supported travel experiences.
The myth that travel agents are more expensive is quickly being debunked. While they earn income through a mix of commissions and service fees, it is often far more affordable than people assume. Abramyk offers clear, upfront fees for custom itineraries. Guay and Malcolm earn through supplier commissions and charge no planning fees, meaning prices are typically the same as booking online.
And, when it comes to deals, all three agents confirmed they often have access to exclusive offers not available online. Malcolm can usually price match, Abramyk’s host agency gives her clients elevated experiences, and Guay can secure perks that online platforms simply cannot offer.
In other words, you’re not paying more — you’re getting more.
Of course, five-star trips don’t come at three-star prices. And travel agents only earn if you book with them, so honesty and respect go a long way. If you’re browsing, be upfront. Trust builds better trip, and booking local keeps your travel dollars in Airdrie, not off on their own vacation.
This year, I may be getting older — but I’m wise enough to book with a pro.
Supporting Airdrie’s licensed travel professionals not only simplifies your vacation, it strengthens our local economy.
Shauna Quinn is the Tourism Development Officer with the City of Airdrie.
Special thanks to Airdrie’s licensed travel professionals including:
Jessica Abramyk of Jesa Travel
Janna Guay of Great Latitudes Travel
Jody Malcolm of Go With Hippo
