Midweek interview with Aaron Christian

We convinced APT’s account manager, small ships, Aaron Christian to overcome his reluctance to talk about himself – and we’re glad we did!

The challenge for the industry is… Pinpointing the travel styles and destinations that are going to resonate most with our Aussie and Kiwi guests. We’re always looking for the next new and exciting destination for guests – it’s an enjoyable challenge from year to year.

The things I like about my job… Helping my travel agencies grow their businesses is one of the best parts of my job, that and the fact that I get to talk about and travel to some of the most incredible destinations.

And the frustrations are … Sydney traffic, sitting in both peak hour periods can be torturous at times.

If I didn’t work in travel I would be… Working in film (behind the camera).

Favourite airline? Singapore Airlines.

My proudest moment was… The arrival of my little girl in June.

The naughtiest thing I ever did was… I have snuck into several concerts to see bands over the years, but I always brought their t–shirts….

I try to relax by… Heading north and chasing the sun, I don’t mind taking the odd photograph either.

The last time I feared for my life was… In 2006, after arriving in San Francisco on a late flight. I couldn’t sleep so I took a late night stroll around the suburb the hotel was located in, problem was it was Tenderloin and as I later found out this suburb had the highest murder rate in all of the United States…

If I can, I always try to avoid… Watching the footy on date night.

I really wish I had… A helicopter to get me between my appointments – self funded though!

The best advice I’ve ever received was… Focus on what’s happening today… also, heat your grill for at least 10 minutes before throwing your chosen cut of meat on the barbie and cook each side for 2.5 minutes (the perfect steak).

I don’t understand why people… Speed up to block the space you’re moving into when there’s clearly enough room to merge lanes?

My greatest weakness is… Talking about myself, it’s tough right?

And my greatest strength is… The examples my late mum set my brother, sister and I.

If I won a $1 million lottery (aside from travelling), I would… I’d use it on a property, $1 million should be enough for a deposit in Sydney right?!

If I was prime minister I would… Have the National Mint update the images on our currency and with the permission of their families recognise some of the important indigenous figures in our history.

If I could be someone else for one day I would be a… Film director.

I’ve always wanted to travel to… Cuba.

My favourite holiday was… I honestly loved escorting our Top Achievers trip in 2014 from Turkey to Cyprus on APT’s Small Ship, the MS Island Sky. As far as personal holidays go, Japan was an experience I will forever recommend to others who want a mix of tradition and culture, constant contradictions, sensory overload and incredibly friendly people.

Advertise with us

Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au

Aaron Christian Agent Zone apt cruise midweek interview small ships wholesalers