Expedia Cruises Testimonial: Syracuse, NY

After spending more than two decades in sales, marketing and leadership roles, Karen Guerrette was ready for a new challenge. “I spent 24 years in corporate America, working in numerous roles in sales and marketing, and leading teams focused on continuous improvement and managing technology roadmaps. I had extreme burnout at my last company, where I was for almost 20 years.”

Her desire to own a business came from watching her parents run theirs. “I grew up with entrepreneurs as parents, who owned a successful chain of video stores in Syracuse, NY. I always knew that I wanted to own my business like they did, but I didn’t know how that would look. Through my work with a career coach, I began to expand my search into franchise opportunities.”

Finding the Right Fit

When she began researching franchises, Expedia Cruises quickly stood out. “Expedia was one of the first three that was presented to me, and it just made sense. I kept trying to look at others, but I just came back to what it would mean for our market and for my day-to-day. I could really envision myself in the day-to-day of running an Expedia Cruises franchise.”

She says her decision was reinforced after connecting with other owners. “For me, it was all about my open and honest conversations with other franchisees, which was solidified during our Discovery Day in Vancouver. Talking with the team really helped me see how they would help both me as a franchise grow, as well as my vacation consultants.”

Opening the Doors to a New Career

Karen and her husband signed with Expedia Cruises in September 2023 and opened their center in March 2024. “We are in a multi-use plaza, which has a mix of medical, shops, activities, a movie theatre and restaurants.”

Since opening, the experience has exceeded her expectations. “It’s been more than what I expected. I knew I would work hard, but the benefits of working with my amazing team of vacation consultants and our valued customers has been very rewarding.”

Rediscovering Purpose

Karen says the transition has been personally transformative. “I’ve found my purpose again. In working for myself, but not by myself, I have found drive that I lost along the way in previous roles. I really look forward to going into our center and tackling the variety of the day. My family has noticed this change too. They know I am working hard, but they know that I am happy and they are proud of me.”

Building on a Proven System

She credits her success to the strong foundation and guidance that come with the Expedia Cruises system. “I receive a lot of support from Expedia Cruises. From systems and processes, marketing and technology, to coaching and escalation support, I know that I could not build a successful travel business on my own and I wouldn’t choose to do it alone.”

“Talking with other franchisees, who took time to talk to me about the pros and cons of being in the business, I truly felt that they cared. I felt welcomed, while also knowing that the folks at head office would be both supportive, while challenging me to be the best version of myself.”

When asked if she would do it again, her answer was simple: “One hundred percent yes.”

Looking Ahead

Karen’s focus now is on growing her center and her team. “I told myself that in the first three years of being open, I would completely lean into the Expedia Cruises marketing plan. This has made it easier to just say yes and focus on execution. In doing so, I’ve been concentrating on events to support our sales. Each event adds more market awareness, as well as helps us grow our prospects and customer base.”

Her advice to future owners is direct and practical. “Go and visit an Expedia Cruises, or talk with other franchisees in similar markets to your own.”