Say hello to the people in the industry who’ve chosen ‘travel for life’ as their career. They are ultra passionate, much-loved folk that continue to inspire others by going above & beyond in their roles.
This week we catch up with the Founder of Goldman Travel, Tom Goldman who continues to lead the business from growth to growth.
How long have you been in the industry and in what roles?
Tom Goldman (C) and sons Anthony Goldman (L) and David Goldman (R)
I’ve been in the industry for 56 years, I joined the industry in 1962 working as a travel consultant at Paxton Travel. My first booking was a rail ticket from Sydney to Melbourne on the Southern Cross train.
I then joined American Express in New York and launched the Corporate Travel Department. After my tenure there, I launched Astronaut Travel in Sydney in Partnership with Isi Leibler. And last but certainly not least, 35 years ago in 1983, I founded Goldman Travel.
What do you do in your role now?
I serve as Executive Chairman and work alongside my two sons, Anthony and David who run the business in joint Managing Director roles. I love watching them run the businesses in the Goldman portfolio and I also enjoy consulting with a small group of clients.
What do you love most about working in the travel industry?
Every day I learn something new. Things have changed so much over the years and continue to evolve which is exciting. As a family business that is celebrating 35 years this year, we have nurtured relationships within our various businesses and partners which honestly makes it feel less like work and more of a hobby.
As cliché as the saying is, if you love what you do – it will never feel like work.
How has working in the industry changed you?
Working in the industry is not working… for me, it is pursuing a lifestyle. It brings the world closer to your doorstep and allows you to experience things that change your life for the better.
Tell us about a recent, amazing travel experience
My most recent and amazing travel experience was a cruise to Alaska with Seabourn. The highlight was soaring over the glaciers in a small plane.
What’s the weirdest/most amusing job you’ve ever had?
The most amusing job I’ve ever had was not long after I joined the industry. I was a single young man and I was asked to escort a group of 30 women on an overseas trip. That taught me things to last me a lifetime!
How can we as an industry ‘travel to change the world?’
We need to learn and embrace different cultures.
Our Virtuoso colleagues use the phrase “Travel Unites”. It unites people from around the world in these sometimes-crazy times. Speaking from a travel agency perspective, tailoring and personalising holidays will allow people to experience the world more.
Ultimately, we need to emphasise less on the “fees” and demonstrate our value, as more often than not people are looking for a life-changing experience. Who better to curate this than an industry expert?
What’s your number one in-flight tip?
Don’t talk to the person next to you unless they initiate the conversation. Certainly, don’t tell them you work in the industry!
What advice would you give an industry newbie?
Disregard working in the travel industry as “just a job”. You get to experience what you sell and converse about on a day to day basis… what can be better than that?
What would you say to someone thinking about joining the industry?
Do it – but be patient and travel as much as possible whilst you’re young. Working in the industry provides a great education in understanding people and the world.
READ: #travelforlife: Neil Rogers MD, Adventure World
READ: #travelforlife: Jared Simcox GM, Scoot Airlines
