This feature is a question-and-answer session with a new Blount County Chamber member. So, here we go with our 173rd installment visiting with Rebecca Henry, owner/travel agent of Cruise Planners which is a full-service travel agency that can plan everything from hotel stays to cruises to specialized trips all over the world.

Tell me more about you and Cruise Planners. I have a passion for Travel AND saving money. I love helping give my clients the best deals on the most amazing travel experiences from Disney, land tours, all inclusive resorts and train trips.

How did you get started? I started as a salaried Travel Agent with AAA and then lost my job due to covid layoffs. I purchased my own Franchise with Cruise Planners, An American Express Travel Representative and opened my business September 1, 2020.

What is your background? While no one has knowledge of every place in the world, I try to go visit as many destinations as possible and I am constantly doing training on destinations and ways to travel.

Describe your customers. My clients range from couples or families looking for a simple US beach stay, to first time cruisers, to bucket list travelers and everything in between.

What do you enjoy most about your business? I love everything about running my own business. I have the best of both worlds. I can SPOIL my clients because it’s MY business, but also I have an incredible support system and powerhouse company backing me up. Being affiliated with American Express Travel means LOTS of buying power and I get to pass those savings and perks along to my clients. Happy Clients = Happy Agent!

I love what I do and I am super passionate about providing the best deals and best service for my clients. I strive to make lifelong clients and friends – not just one time sales. I go the extra mile and am with my clients from start to finish – from the time of booking, until they safely return home from their journey.