Costa Rica Sun Tours (CRST) General Manager Arlene Sandi started her career in business administration. In 1988, she saw saw a post at her university for a tourism job. It was a very different time in Costa Rica – international tourism was in its infancy. She was intrigued by the job opportunity and interviewed with CRST President John Aspinall where she ‘talked and talked’ and told him she was interested in working…but not necessarily in tourism. It was her first job after her education and when she started, was very happy because every day she learned something new, like she did at university. Working in tourism gave her the chance to know people, different cultures, and to learn about loving and respecting nature. Sustainability wasn’t in vogue yet, but she learning about it even then. We interviewed Arlene to learn from her 34 years in the industry.
What do you think are the most important thing(s) women in tourism contribute to the professional/ industry?
Women, in general, are known for their ability to handle multiple tasks at the same time without losing focus of what is important – basic, and this in the tourism industry is key for the success of any given experience. Attention to details with care and tenderness. Ability to see the customer’s needs and commitment to exceed the customer’s expectations.
How do you feel working in tourism has changed for women over the last 30 years?
I think it could be the other way around, women have changed tourism over the past years. Nowadays, at least in CR, as an example, we could see how women are making other women aware of their talents, abilities and have empowered them to believe in themselves, being able to generate an income for their families, through the creation of rural tourism experiences. In CR we also had an experienced woman leading the Costa Rican Tourism Industry for a couple of years. This has set a notorious example. Apart from this in many inbound tour operators we find women leading recognized companies. Tourism is a very democratic industry and has given women the chance to show their potential to be as successful as they want. Another interesting aspect that benefits women at all levels in the industry is that if the women have the passion and talent to serve, they can easily start from scratch and continue to grow with the industry as far as they dream and work for.
How do you think things will change for women in tourism in the years to come?
Things have already been changing for women, letting them grab top positions and being successful. Women will also have the chance to shine at all levels, since the entry to top ones. The high touch and attention to details together with the commitment to the guests will open unimagineable paths for women the in tourism industry.
What is the best part of working in tourism?
From a personal point of view it is enchanting, but at the same time, a different thing every day. A “series of trips” are different and unique in themselves, and that keeps one alive, alert and passionate. The other best part of working in tourism is the chance to contribute to the creation of unforgettable memories for the guests we serve. That by itself is priceless and has no comparison whatsoever.
And from the perspective of Onik Morrison, one of CRST’s naturalist women guides:
What do you think are the most important thing(s) women in tourism contribute to the professional/ industry?
Presence. As more and more women become part of the tourism industry their presence gets stronger. This seeps through our conscious mind and slowly becomes a social and cultural norm, hopefully becoming a strong force toward gender equality in tourism. Our biggest contribution is showing the world that we are essential, we are capable and strong and made for this business. Women have what it takes: we are witty, creative, resilient and caring, whether it’s in the service or the administration area.
How do you feel working in tourism has changed for women over the last 30 years?
During the 21st century women have seen more opportunity come their way. They have seen higher ranked jobs and better wages, legal support, social empowerment, and education and training opportunities. Nonetheless there is still discrimination toward women together with a very large gender gap in this industry and there needs to be a stronger focus on the sustainable development of tourism.
How do you think things will change for women in tourism in the years to come?
The world is changing faster than ever before. I see a bright future ahead for women in tourism in a relative short period of time. As gender issues are brought to the forefront in many of the main economy sectors of the world, so it is in tourism. And as women become more empowered and acknowledge the opportunity that lies ahead, they’ll seize it like a hurricane…watch out!
What is the best part of working in tourism?
Where can I start… The tourism world offers an infinite number of possible experiences. Almost any major career path you choose can be adapted into tourism. As a tour guide I often see myself being a waiter, a doctor, a psychologist or a teacher at the same time. This also gives you the opportunity to gain new skills in your job, for example, I never thought I would learn to steer an oar boat, conduct CPR or discern gourmet coffees like a barista. Being a tour guide has allowed me to see the world with different eyes, wiser eyes and more empathic eyes. It has also allowed me to see the World …literally. By traveling you broaden yourself with knowledge, insight, friendships and more. As a tour guide you can make a difference and that needs no further explanation.
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