08/18/2026
Introducing administrative assistant and advisor Suzanne Shiffer!
I am approaching my four-year anniversary with Kelly Cruises & Tours, and when I first started with the company, my role was very different from what it is today. I began by answering the phones, assisting Susan Kelly and Mary Ann Corrigan, helping clients with dining reservations and shore excursions, and coordinating group trips. Over the past four years, I have had the opportunity to learn so much about the travel industry, grow my knowledge and confidence, and build meaningful relationships with our clients. It has been incredibly rewarding to see how my role has evolved and to now be able to help clients plan and create memorable travel experiences of their own. I’m very grateful for the experience, the people I’ve met, and everything I’ve learned along the way.
One of my favorite trips I’ve planned for a client was a luxury cruise because it allowed me to be involved in every detail of the journey, from selecting the perfect itinerary and accommodations to arranging transfers, excursions, and special experiences along the way. What made it especially rewarding was knowing that I had created a trip that matched my clients’ interests and expectations and gave them the opportunity to truly relax and enjoy their vacation without having to worry about the details. Seeing their excitement before they left and hearing how much they enjoyed the experience afterward is one of the most rewarding parts of being a travel advisor. For me, the best trips are the ones where I can take my knowledge and personal attention and turn a client’s vacation dreams into memories they will cherish for years to come.
My favorite trip I’ve personally taken was to Banff, Canada, where we traveled and camped in our RV. There was something incredibly special about being surrounded by the breathtaking Rocky Mountains, beautiful turquoise lakes, and incredible wildlife while having the freedom to explore at our own pace. I loved the combination of adventure, relaxation, and the quality time we were able to spend together. Traveling in our RV made the experience even more memorable because it gave us the flexibility to enjoy the beautiful scenery, discover new places, and truly take in everything Banff had to offer. It’s a trip that created so many wonderful memories, and it is definitely a destination I would love to visit again.
When traveling internationally, one packing tip I absolutely swear by is using packing cubes! They keep everything organized, make it so much easier to find what I need without unpacking my entire suitcase, and help maximize the space in my luggage. I also love that I can organize each cube by category, such as tops, bottoms, undergarments, or accessories. After a long day of traveling, having everything organized and easy to find makes a huge difference!
