Midweek Interview with Darren Jackson, Bridge Pacific Hotels

Midweek Interview with Darren Jackson, Bridge Pacific Hotels
By admin


The challenge for the industry is… to create new products that will satisfy the increasing demands of Internet savvy, social media and smart phone consumers.

The things I like about my job are… I’m always learning new things and constantly pushing my limits. I enjoy the contact with hotel owners and suppliers around the world. I get a real kick when clients share their fabulous hotel stories.

And the frustrations… Google, web hosting companies and affiliate managers. Hotel rooms that don’t look like the pictures.

If I didn’t work in travel I would be a… veterinarian.

Qantas or Virgin?… haha – Qantas!

My proudest moment was… deciding to let go of the ‘security’ of paid employment to pursue my online venture.

The naughtiest thing I ever did was… over indulging in Amsterdam and … enough said.

I try to relax by… taking long bush walks and strolls along the beach. Lazing by the pool at a five star beach resort should rate a mention!

The last time I feared for my life… was when I crossed the border from Turkey to Syria. It took four hours during a thunder storm and a power blackout. Imagine sitting in a smokey room lit by candles being questioned (in Arabic) by a suspicious man with yellow teeth who wanted US$150 to proceed. Very Indiana Jones!

If I can, I always try to avoid… negative people.

I really wish I had… the power to stop war and conflict.

The best advice I’ve ever received was… to find your passion, do it without hesitation and seek peace of mind knowing you gave it your best shot.

 I don’t understand why… people stay in a job they don’t like.

My greatest weakness is… I’m a perfectionist and intolerant of those who complain but do nothing about it. Did I mention chocolate cookies & vanilla ice cream? Anything chocolate really!

And my greatest strength… is self believe that it can be done and to encourage others to feel the same.

If I was prime minister I would… call an election!

If I won $1 million on the lottery I would… share with my inner circle of family and friends, distribute to some worthy charities and kick off a killer marketing campaign.

If I could be someone else for one day I would be… the Dalai Lama of Tibet.

I’ve always wanted to travel to… Tibet.

My favourite holiday was… too many to mention. If I had to pick one, a safari through Zimbabwe, Botswana and South Africa.

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

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