Today we’d like to introduce you to Gilbert Longoria.
So, before we jump into specific questions about the business, why don’t you give us some details about you and your story.
I started my career at the Texas State Aquarium, where I worked in group sales and marketing more than 20 years ago. When I first visited Chicago in 2001, I fell in love with the city and especially the Shedd Aquarium here. Six months later, I packed my bags a moved to Chicago, and I have been ever since! I obtained a tourism sales and marketing job at Shedd Aquarium, which eventually led to a position with a leading Chicago tour planning company. I spent many years there as Director of Tour Operations.
In April of 2012, I started my own business – The Chicago Tour Company – where I have the control to plan, coordinate, run and lead tours as I see fit, with keeping my customers’ needs as my first priority. It was the best decision I have ever made!
Has it been a smooth road?
My road to where my career is now has been winding, but I consider myself very lucky that one position seems to have transitioned right into the next. One of the biggest hurdles I’ve had to overcome was when I first moved to Chicago. I was moving across the country, away from all of my family and everything I knew, but there was just something here that drew me to the city. Most people who visit Chicago will understand! Now, I can’t imagine being anywhere else!
I’d say my next hurdle (which wasn’t really a hurdle, but more of a leap) was when I decided to start my own company. It was more thrilling than scary. Like a roller coaster. I knew I would be fine, but it was that initial jump that was the hardest. Again, it was the best decision I have ever made.
So let’s switch gears a bit and go into The Chicago Tour Company story. Tell us more about the business.
The Chicago Tour Company prides itself on our unique, custom tours. All of our tours are designed specifically for each group. Although we have different tour ideas we can offer our customers, each tour is carefully crafted to meet the exact specifications of each group. Even a relatively simple tour such as a city highlights tour is run with the needs and requests of each group in mind. I feel that attention to detail sets us apart from other companies. There are no standard tours here!
Additionally, we provide guide and tour escort service, airport meet-and-greets, custom day-trips, multi-day excursions and more. I make sure I am closely involved with each and every one of our tours and services, to make 100% sure that the group is getting exactly what they want!
How do you think the industry will change over the next decade?
I have seen a shift in moving towards more automated, online booking of tours and services. Although I personally love one-on-one interactions with every one of my customers, I can see the desire for a more streamlined way to plan a tour. Perhaps that is one big change that will continue to come. Although, I must say nothing beats an actual conversation with a potential new client!
Contact Info:
- Address: 4835 W Grace St
Chicago, IL 60641 - Website: www.chicagotourco.com
- Phone: 773-930-3710
- Email: gilbert@chicagotourco.com
- Facebook: www.facebook.com/TheChicagoTourCompany
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