Galápagos Direct - First Class trips to Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands
Enjoy door-to-door, custom-designed travel care from your home to Ecuador and the unique Galápagos Islands with extensions to Machu Picchu if desired. We serve singles, couples, families and groups.
Keywords: Galápagos Islands, Travel, Ecuador, , Cruises, Senior Travel,Student, Group Travel, First Class Travel, Custom Travel, Nature, Ecology, Darwin, Machu Picchu
Interview Q&A
How long have you been in business?
I started Galápagos Direct in 1998 in response to friends wanting to know more about Ecuador and the islands. All income after expenses gos to education programs, in the islands, in partnership with the Galápagos Conservancy.
What is your primary product or service?
My primary purpose is to introduce travelers to one of the loveliest countries in South America! Ecuador's people are as sunny as the climate, her three regions - Pacific Coast, Andes and the "orient" or jungle areas in the east, offer superb experiences for visitors, including trekking, simply walking and hiking, superior bird-watching and much more. Her most famous destination is the Galápagos Islands where one may live-aboard a cruise ship, stay in a charming local hotel making day trips on land or sea.
How did you first become interested in your line of business? (if owner) - What is your background? (If owner or store manager)
I was introduced to Ecuador many years ago by my husband who grew up in Quito after emigrating, with his family, from Italy. Ecuador became a second home to me as well as providing me my second language!
How do you differentiate yourself from other businesses in your category and area?
I like to think my business is special because I speak the language, know the mainland and the islands extremely well, have sailed on or inspected the ships on which I book clients as well as all mainland hotels. I know my land service staff people personally. There are few, if any questions, I cannot answer about Ecuador.
How many locations do you have and do you have plans to expand?
I am a sole tour operator specializing in Ecuador - the country I know best. I do not operate in multiple locations. My clients deal with me exclusively regarding all their plans.
What type of payments do you accept?
I accept personal and bank checks for all deposits - all balances are welcome via a VISA or Master Card.
Which areas do you service?
I serve clients from all over the U.S. Canada, Europe and the east.
Who owns your company or runs daily operations?
I am responsible for all operations.
What are your hours of operation?
I am available Tuesday to Thursday - 10:00 to Noon and 2:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. eastern time and Fridays 10:00 to noon.
I am vailable by cell and check e-mail regularly.
What is the best compliment anyone can give you?
A personal referral!
What is your favorite quote or Bible verse?
My favorite quote is from Bill Roberson at INCA with whom I work.
"If you have integrity, nothing else matters. If you do not have integrity, nothing else matters."
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