One of the best parts of being in the Tourism industry for many years is the people I meet. Our industry has an endless list of talented, hardworking, fun-loving and creative professionals. I decided to interview my friends and give you a peek into their lives and careers. This week we hear from my friend Tico Soto. If you have ever been at an event or trade show, you know when Tico is in the room because of his infectious positive spirit!
Tell us a bit about how you got started in the tourism industry.
Saw an ad in the local paper in my hometown of Lake Charles, Louisiana. The ad read…like people, love to travel and hard worker? I said, yes…yes….yes!!!!!!! And 25 years later here I sit.
What is your current job and what are your primary responsibilities?
5 years ago I started my own tourism consulting company, Tourism Tactics by Tico, after 20 years in the DMO world. My main focus is to work with various DMOs in the growth of sales in different markets, depending on their needs.
What are some of the changes you have seen since you began your career?
Believe it or not, I have gotten older!!!!!! One thing about the hospitality and tourism industry, it continues to change and you must keep up with the trends in order to move our clients forward.
How has Covid impacted your job?
Like most folks in the tourism industry, it has devasted my main source of income. I know it will be back stronger than ever, however that is a few years away.
It’s vacation time – where do you go?
Italy – have a trip planned in August, fingers crossed!
What is your favorite app and tell us a bit about it.
I use Open table all the time – I am single and live alone, so most of my meals are eaten at a restaurant and this app has never let me down.
What is your favorite tradeshow and why?
I love IPW, my heart and soul are in the international tourism marketing world. I love showcasing different destinations to clients from all over the world.
What advice do you have for someone just getting started in the tourism industry?
Hold on, it will be the ride of your life. Journal all your experience and enjoy each moment, it flies by.
What do you see as an opportunity that will come out of the Coronavirus crisis?
I hope and pray that we never take life for granted again, it short, precious and there is still so much to live for in the world.
More information from Tico:
Looking to expand your sales? How about cracking into that niche market at home? Well, look no further than Tourism Tactics by Tico. Tico Soto delivers more than just increased sales results. His background managing tourism markets in the United States, Europe and beyond, for over two decades, enhances his services by delivering extensive experience and innovative leadership to the tourism industry. Tico knows that in order to achieve great results, it is important to establish a solid foundation, and that is done by developing real relationships—from receptive operators and wholesalers to backyard attractions and bucket list adventures. Remember, Tourism Tactics for Tico—the destination for travel enthusiasts.
Looking for ways to grow your business in 2021?
DMOs/Tourism Organizations:
Are you looking for a way to provide value to your partners during this challenging time? Check out the Online Tourism Training Program with this link. I can help you provide monthly virtual training for you to offer to your partners/members.
Janet Kasic, Director of Circle Michigan: My company, Circle Michigan, recently contracted with Sally Davis Berry for her Online Tourism Training Program. I am grateful to have been able to offer these educational webinars to our membership. We had phenomenal feedback to the three webinars we participated in. And Sally made it so EASY!
My team will take care of registration, reminders, and even a post-webinar survey! Let me know what topics your partners need help with and we will develop impactful training. I am booked through June, but am booking new clients starting in July 2021. Prices start at just $995 for each training. Click here to email me and we can set up a time to talk!
Looking to increase your Tourism knowledge and skills?
Then check out Tourism Pro Academy. This platform is a one-stop-shop. You can check out free resources, courses and other ways to work with me. I recently added some new book suggestions. Click here to see what’s available.
Can I ask a Favor?
I am a goal setter and I want to have 2000 readers by the end of this year. Can you forward this email to two other tourism professionals you know? If you work at a DMO or Tourism Organization, I would love it if you would encourage your partners to sign up to receive my weekly posts. Thank you! Just click here to be added to the mailing list.