On Tuesday, December 17th, the angelic voices of over 20 West Coast BDMs were heard in travel agencies across metro Vancouver. The Christmas Caroling idea was inspired by Alberta BDMs who have been doing this for the past couple of years.

“23 of us! We traveled from West Van to Coquitlam and visited 11 agencies caroling, collecting food and monetary nations for the food bank! The generosity was amazing! So lucky to work in such an amazing industry! Thank you for a great day!," Fiona Schonewille, Business Development Manager Western Canada, Holland America.

Freddie Marsh, Business Development Manager Western Canada, Playa Hotels & Resorts said the group loved seeing all the huge smilles when they walked into an agency.

"We had such a good time spreading some holiday cheer. It was such a great day, we are already planning for next year”

BDMS participating:

Oben Sert – Trafalgar

Lisa Willey – Uniworld

Carlo Trinidad – AMResorts

Miles Walker – Blue Roads Touring

Bruno Munoz – Transat

Leanne Hill – MSC Cruises

Christy King – RIU Hotels & Resorts

Ana Vasquez – Air Canada Vacations

Cindy Chau – Carnival Cruise Line

Wade Mernard – Princess Cruises

Fatima DaSilva – Norwegian Cruise line

Afra Davis – TravelBrands

Emily Spadafora – WestJet

Shane Buksh – Royal Caribbean

Sofia Ferreira – Sunwing

Dave Emery – Realistic Asia

Kat Houseman – Iberostar Hotels & Resorts

Tom Steer – Holland America

Fiona Schonewille – Holland America

Freddie Marsh – Playa Hotels & Resorts

In addtion to the caroling, agencies were sent a poem before their arrival:

Twas the week before Christmas

when all through the town

all the agents were stirring to finally slow down.

The bookings were closed by the agents with care

in hopes that their clients would soon be in the air.

Their clients were all snug in their beds

while visions of their vacations danced in their heads.

When outside the agency there rose such a clatter

Travel advisers sprang from their desks to see what was the matter

Away to the window as quick as a flash

They tore open the door to see a bus arrive filled with Sass!

Out they went to see,

but 20+ BDM’s filled with glee.

With a little driver taking them all around here,

visiting agencies and spreading Christmas cheer.

Now, Freddie, Now Fatima, now Fiona, Cindy and Wade!

On, Kat, Emily and Afra, and who could forget Shane.

With 20+ BDM’s leading the way strong,

we look forward to visiting you this day and having a sing along