When reviewing applications for the Brand USA Ambassador Panel, there was one name that leapt off the page; not just for accolades, but for attitude. Described by peers and colleagues as someone who doesn’t gatekeep, Tracey is known for sharing her travel intel with immense enthusiasm. It is this generosity of spirit and joyful commitment to lifting others up that made her stand out from the crowd as a natural fit for the panel.
Based on the Gold Coast, Tracey is an International Travel Consultant with MTA, Mobile Travel Agents, where she’s spent the past 14 years of her impressive 26-year travel career. Her credentials speak for themselves: she’s a CLIA Cruise Master, the 2015 CLIA Mobile Agent of the Year, and a two-time finalist for NTIA’s Most Outstanding Home-Based Travel Advisor, most recently nominated for the 2025 awards.
But what really fuels her? A fierce and ever-growing passion for the USA. Having already explored 22 states, Tracey’s on a mission to visit all 50, with a map that’s steadily filling in, and an enthusiasm for U.S. travel that’s as infectious as it is insightful.
Fellow MTA Agent and colleague, Fiona Gent had this to say about Tracey: “Tracey’s extensive travels across the USA have given her a deep, firsthand understanding of the destination – insight she brings to her role as a Brand USA Ambassador. Her passion for the USA and commitment to crafting unforgettable client experiences make her a standout representative of the brand and the wider travel industry.”
What motivated you to apply to be a Brand USA Ambassador?
“I’ve always loved discovering different parts of the USA and bringing that first-hand knowledge back to my clients. Being a Brand USA Ambassador gives me the chance to do that on a bigger scale by sharing tips and insights with industry peers through training, social media, webinars, and trade events. I think ongoing learning is so important in this industry, and I’m proud to be part of the program – especially in its inaugural year.”
How do you plan on sharing your expertise on travel to the USA with your clients and network?
“In July, I’ll be joining the Brand USA team at The Great USA Road Trip – Australia, in partnership with United Airlines event on the Gold Coast. Alongside the other ambassadors, we’ll be there to support Brand USA and the attending U.S. destinations, showcasing just how fun and accessible road travel in the United States can be.
Then, in August I’m hosting a USA-themed trivia night for industry colleagues, which will be a great mix of learning, networking, and a bit of fun thrown in. Finally, in October I’ll be running a USA-focused webinar through my MTA brand, which will be available to over 450 members. Lots of exciting things ahead!”
What’s the top U.S. destination/s on your travel wish list?
“Montana for its scenery, wildlife and ranches. Montage Big Sky is at the top of my list to stay, then down into Wyoming to explore Yellowstone National Park and visit Old Faithful.”
What is something you can only experience in the USA?
“The sheer diversity from one region to the next. You can drive just a few hours and feel like you’ve landed in a completely different world. In a single day, you might find yourself experiencing Native American culture, wandering through a vibrant city, visiting an iconic landmark, or relaxing by a beautiful lake. That kind of variety is what I love most about the USA, no two experiences are the same.”
What’s one surprising thing about the USA that you wish more people knew about?
“That the food scene goes way beyond hot dogs and fries, and yes, you can absolutely find great coffee! My recent experience in Portland, Oregon, showed me that coffee is treated as more of an experience than just a morning caffeine fix. It’s thoughtful, artisanal, and part of the culture.
What really surprises people is just how regional and diverse the food is across the states. Every city, even smaller towns, has its own local flavour. My tip? Skip the chains and find out where the locals eat. That’s where the real stories (and the best meals!) are. There’s a rich, evolving food culture across the USA that’s worth exploring.”
Travel across the USA is so diverse, what’s your favourite style of travel there?
“A road trip is most definitely my favourite way to experience the USA. On my trip to the South last year we covered three states in a day, and they were all so diverse. You can’t beat a road trip where you can stop whenever and wherever you want, like at a massive Buc-ee’s for a hot brisket sandwich, or at a picturesque lake to take in the fresh air away from the city.”
How do you see this role helping you grow professionally?
“Being a part of the Brand USA Ambassador program will help bring awareness that the USA is my niche in the market. I have already had new clients referred to me since becoming an Ambassador, and I’m hopeful that my personal learning through the program will help generate new business and refine my niche.”
What U.S. travel trend are you most excited to share with your clients in 2025?
“My top U.S. travel trend is definitely road tripping and going beyond the cities. Explore the roads less travelled and immerse yourself like a local. Don’t stay inside the cities – explore, relax, enjoy. I’ve been seeing growing interest in road trips from clients which is why I’m so excited about Brand USA’s upcoming The Great USA Road Trip – Australia, in partnership with United Airlines roadshows in Perth, Adelaide and the Gold Coast this month. It’s a brilliant opportunity for agents to learn more about selling these kinds of immersive, self-drive holidays.”
Learn more about Brand USA’s upcoming The Great USA Road Trip – Australia, in partnership with United Airlines roadshows in Perth, Adelaide and the Gold Coast here.
Agents can register to attend here.
What’s one expert selling tip you’ve found essential when promoting travel to the USA?
“Allow time to really see and experience the destinations you’re visiting. Slow the pace. Don’t rush through 10 cities in 10 days. I find Australians tend to want to do too much and end up exhausted. It’s a long way for us to travel to the USA and you really need time to enjoy and relax along the way. The USA is the place to go back to time and time again. It’s not the holiday of a lifetime but, rather a lifetime of holidays!”
Find out more
To deepen your knowledge of the USA and access a range of tools and resources, register for the USA Discovery Program – Brand USA’s official training platform for travel agents.
Continue reading about other Brand USA Ambassadors including James Rakus, Flight Centre’s Global Top Selling Leisure Consultant here and Eloise Manto, Flight Centre Senior Travel Consultant here.
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