| FACE-2-FACE: 04 Feb 22

ALEX Straglinos

Business Development Manager, Cruise Traveller

1. What is your favourite part of your job?

Helping our industry’s resilient and strong agents rebuild their businesses by embracing Cruise Traveller’s small ship offering.

2. What attracted you to a career in the cruise industry?

I had always been fascinated by the idea of cruising. There is no better way to see the world than by sea!

3. What is key to success in the cruise industry?

The cruising industry is forever changing so flexibility is key, along with hard work and dedication. As long as you have the passion, you will always find a way to succeed.

4. How has COVID-19 changed the way you do your job?

COVID-19 has opened my mind to find new opportunities that traditionally were not there. It has brought out the hunter and survivor in me.

5. What is the best thing to say to people who are hesitant to cruise?

There is a cruise line for everyone. Speak to your travel agent, let them help you find which cruise line would best suit and try a shorter cruise close to home first.

6. What was your best fam trip?

I was lucky enough to join the end of Ponant’s Chairman’s cruise in 2019 hosted by Sarina Bratton which was pretty remarkable.

7. How do you wind down after a busy week?

By going out for dinner with my partner, enjoying a few cocktails and lots of yummy food! Sets the scene for a great weekend.

8. Is there a celebrity you’d most like to cruise with?

The King of Pop — Michael Jackson. He was my biggest inspiration as a young performer!

9. What should the cruise ship of the future look like?

Small and luxurious of course, able to explore further than ever before and be carbon neutral!

10. When not at work, how do you spend your time?

Currently I am finishing my post-grad study in marketing, so if I am not working, I am studying. Not long to go now!