We had the good fortune of connecting with Lakisha Goss and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Lakisha, is there something you can share with us that those outside of the industry might not be aware of?
One thing that outsiders are probably unaware of when it comes to the travel industry is that the commission is included in the price of most travel products, whether you book directly with the hotel, through a booking engine like Expedia or Kayak, or use a travel advisor. Unfortunately, with booking direct or with an online booking engine, you are missing out on things that travel advisors provide like product knowledge, advocating for you if something goes wrong, access to upgrades, and amenities that might cost you with the other options. We also have access to special rates and promotions that are not available to the public because of the relationships with cultivate with the various brands. In many cases, using a travel advisor can save you money and provide added value in the form of expert advice and assistance.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
Celebrating special occasions is one of my favorite things to do, and I believe that the experience should be unforgettable one. That’s why celebratory travel is a big part of my brand. I love curating unique experiences for my clients, whether it’s for a birthday, wedding, or a friend’s getaway. And because I know that the devil is in the details, I also take care of all the little things that make a trip special, from luxury accommodations to reservations to transportation. I want you to have the time of your life without having to do anything but pack!

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
If my best friend came to town and I wanted to show her the best time I would take her around West Midtown where I live. We would eat at restaurants like Twisted Soul Cookhouse and Pours or the various stalls at Chattahoochee Food Works then nightcap it at the Holiday Bar. Since it’s a week-long trip we would venture out for some hands-on fun at Candle Lit Atlanta or Cake & Sip. Since she’s a proud plant mama a trip to Flora/Fauna is a must.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There are so many people that I can attribute my success. My family especially my younger sister who pushed me to start my business when I was talking myself out of it, my girlfriend who is also a business owner and in a way my accountability partner, and my friends who join me on group trips and refer me out to others. Last but certainly not least are the many brown girl travel advisors who have shared knowledge and best practices, who share in the joys and pains of the business as well as encourage you to keep going, keep growing, and keep glowing!

Website: www.kuratedtravels.com

Instagram: www.instagram.com/kuratedtravels

Twitter: kuratedatl

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kuratedtravels

Image Credits
Headshots by Captured by Jo

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