This month, we had the opportunity to speak with one of our amazing members, Rose Cavin, and were able to learn so much about her company, Best Connection Travel, as well take a look into her passions in life. We hope that you enjoy learning more about Rosie as much as we have!
Tell us about your company and what do you do:
Best Connection Travel, Inc (BCT) is a full-service travel agency, in business for over 33 years, specializing in group travel and preparing custom itineraries for clients who want to travel alone or don’t want a cookie cutter itinerary. Our role is to advise clients on trips that fit what they want their vacations to be; it may be a cruise, an escorted tour, or an independent adventure. We work with all cruise lines and tour operators worldwide. BCT is a member of the International Air Travel Association and we belong to the Travel Leaders Consortium.
What is something most people don’t know about your business?
A travel advisor/agent does a lot more than sell travel. At BCT we provide our clients with a best value vacation, not necessarily the cheapest option. Best value means that we work with reliable suppliers, we coordinate all aspects of the journey and we act as the client’s advocate. We are the partner when assistance is required during a trip and the travel advisor follows up once the client has safely returned home. We make sure we understand the client’s needs and expectations and we use our expertise and experience to meet or exceed those expectations.
All of us at BCT have certifications and specialized destination and supplier training. We have traveled extensively and visited many countries personally and travelers rely on our expertise to get them the best possible vacation.
Where do you see your business in 5 years?
Given the situation at the moment, with no travel possibilities, we expect to be back in full swing by summer and we expect the demand for travel to grow in the next few years. Americans love to travel and have enormous pent-up energy from not being able to travel all of 2020 and will be anxious to get “back on the road, up in the air, or out to sea” as soon as possible. BCT is well-positioned to meet that demand.
How did you get started in the travel industry?
Many years ago, working for the USO in Germany, arranging trips for US soldiers and their families. This led to working on cruise ships and inspired me to become a professional travel agent. I received a degree in Travel and Tourism in Germany, and I am a Certified Travel Associate.
Tell me about yourself?
I grew up in Germany and came to the US when I was 18. I worked for American Express until they closed their offices and have been with BCT for almost 10 years. I love being in the travel industry, despite its occasional challenges. I really enjoy preparing custom itineraries for my clients and like to hear that they had a fantastic trip when they return.
I lived in Egypt for two years and had the opportunity to explore Egypt, Israel, and Jordan. I have been to many countries and none more fascinating than Nepal, though a safari in South Africa that we did on our own (without a guide) was probably the most exciting. My first love is Italy, but recently I have become passionate about all things Scottish after taking a group to Scotland in October of 2019.
Other than travel I enjoy boating and used to have a sailboat on the Chesapeake Bay. I am also a member of the Back Creek Yacht Club.
What is your favorite place to eat in Annapolis? Favorite Dish?
My favorite place to eat in Annapolis is Carrol’s Creek and my favorite dish is their Cioppino.
Why did you choose my Annapolis Office?
My Annapolis Office has a convenient location, all the facilities we need, a reception area, and a lounge where we can meet with clients. It offers a forwarding telephone service and the internet capabilities we need to service our clients.
Feel free to visit their website to learn more about the company and their upcoming group trips.