VIRTUOSO: Opening Doors

Our leisure time is the most valuable, irreplaceable asset we possess. When it comes to dedicating this nonrenewable resource to travel, we want to know we’re creating meaningful memories that enrich our lives.

In Australia, there are 38 handpicked agencies under global luxury travel network, Virtuoso, and they’re in demand for good reason: their agents tailor journeys to a client’s every desire. Their insider knowledge and contacts help create out-of-the-ordinary experiences, opening doors that would otherwise be closed to you.

As Virtuoso CEO Matthew Upchurch says, “We have refreshed the profession of being a true travel advisor.”

He likens the rise of the travel advisor to what’s happened in the financial services industry. “Why would someone have a wealth advisor to help them manage their financial assets but not have a conscious strategy around managing their leisure time?” Upchurch asks. “That’s what travel advisors do.”

Virtuoso Asia Pacific managing director Michael Londregan says Virtuoso advisors have valuable personal relationships with luxury products around the world.

“These personal relationships help them deliver a VIP experience for their clients,” Londregan says. “Virtuoso advisors don’t just book your trip; they hook you up with their personal contacts with the best tourism operators. As we always say, you can’t VIP yourself, but your Virtuoso agent can.”

In the words of Mary Rossi Travel managing director Claudia Rossi Hudson, “One of our roles is to help the client find the right balance between price and quality on each of the many purchase decisions of a complex itinerary. Then the consultant makes it their responsibility to bring the whole trip together in one flowing, logical, well-paced itinerary.”

Like other Virtuoso members in Australia, Mary Rossi Travel is an ATASaccredited agent. ATAS agents have met strict training and performance criteria with strong track records of delivering expert advice and quality personal service.