Get to Know Dennis from Exoticca: An Insightful Catch-Up as He Prepares to Exhibit at TADA

We recently had the pleasure of catching up with Dennis, the Managing Director for Australia at Exoticca. Dennis has over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, spanning from aviation to tour operations. His journey through various facets of the industry offers a rich perspective on the evolution and current trends of global travel.

Can you start by introducing yourself? Tell us a bit about your background and your role in the travel industry. From a young age, I was captivated by the aviation industry and dreamed of traveling the world. The '90s were a challenging time to enter the sector, but I started in hotels, gaining valuable experience before moving into aviation. Over the years, I've held various commercial roles across retail, wholesale, and tour operation tourism boards, which led me to my current position as Managing Director, Australia for Exoticca.

What inspired you to pursue a career in the travel industry, and what has kept you passionate about it over the years? Initially, it was the glamour of traveling for work that drew me in. However, nearly 30 years later, my focus has shifted more towards leisure travel as a way to unwind from the daily pressures. The dynamic nature of the industry and the continuous evolution in how we travel keep my passion alive.

What’s the most memorable trip you’ve worked on, and what made it so special? About ten years ago, my partner and I visited the Solomon Islands. We stayed on a remote island with no technology, just a beautiful bungalow and a private chef. The simplicity and peacefulness of that trip, filled with reading, healthy eating, and swimming in the sea, made it incredibly special and the most relaxed I’ve ever been.

What’s one trend or innovation in the travel industry that you think travel agents should focus on in 2025? Technology is key for the future of travel. Travel agents should focus on leveraging products that streamline the booking process, saving hours and enhancing client satisfaction. At Exoticca, we were the first B2B operator to offer multi-day tours online, with options to book with or without air, as well as pre and/or post accommodation. This innovation is part of our ongoing commitment to support our travel advisors by removing the hassle of back-and-forth communications and long hold times with suppliers.

How do you see the role of sustainability evolving in the travel industry, and how can Travel Agents implement more eco-friendly practices? From a travel advisor's perspective, it's essential to align with operators who are committed to sustainable practices. Many travelers are now asking about the sustainability efforts of operators, so it's crucial to stay informed. Exoticca’s programs focus on environmental protection, social welfare, and corporate governance, both in our destination operations and at our headquarters.

What’s a fun or surprising fact about you that not many people know? Despite my youthful appearance, I'm a grandfather, or "D-Pa," as I like to call it! I have a 30-year-old daughter living in the US who recently had her first child, which often surprises people considering my young looks.

As Dennis and Exoticca prepare to exhibit at TADA, they look forward to sharing their innovative approaches to travel with industry peers. His journey and insights are a testament to the enduring allure and evolving responsibilities of the travel industry. Stay tuned for more updates from Exoticca as they continue to redefine the travel experience through technology and sustainability.

Dennis Basham