Carol Lekki

Since I began working as a travel consultant in 1976, I've learned that the world is our playground. It's seems at times like such a small place, with so many similarities between faraway lands. At the same time, it holds a tremendous diversity in culture, history and lifestyles. From that day in 1980 when I opened Carol's Travel Service up through the present, I have operated under the philosophy that everyone has their place in the grand scheme of things. We are tremendously lucky to visit such amazing destinations - and to come home to so many riches back home. I've worked hard over the years to keep myself keyed into the trends and changes in the industry, earning qualifications such as Certified Travel Consultant from the Institute of Certified Travel Agents and Master Cruise Counselor from the Cruise Lines International Association. The years have taught me how to turn on a dime and adapt to whatever comes my way, which is an important talent in this ever-evolving profession. While I am actively involved in all phases of the business, I focus on group sales for cruises, river cruises, escorted tours, packages and customized itineraries. I plan trips for groups of 20 - 400+ including family reunions, destination weddings, association travel, clubs, alumni and special interest groups. Each group has its own personality, and I strive to deliver the experience they're looking for, whether it's a gathering of 15 or 150. In 2015 I launched our new Gals Gone Traveling division, trips for women only.  I believe there's no better way to see a destination than up close and personal so I always try and get to know the local people, their customs and culture. It allows you to see things you'd never come in contact with otherwise. I also like the intimate feel of small ship and river cruising. I'm a big fan of exotic destinations like East and South Africa South America and the Galapagos, Australia, New Zealand & Asia. I enjoy the history of Europe, with its small cobblestone roads, age-old buildings and slower pace of life. Of course, I always have a list of places I still want to see, including Antarctica,  Argentina, and specific regions in Eastern Europe, but I get equally excited about the idea of renting a cottage on a lake in Michigan. No matter what the itinerary, travel helps me appreciate what a spectacular world this is. I always love to go away - and I always revere where I go, but at the end of my journey my heart is happy to come home to my native Chicagoland.