Resident and business owner Teresa Allen has spent more than 35 years traveling the world, speaking to business professionals and helping organizations improve customer service. Today, she uses that experience in a different way through her business, Fun Travel Gal, where she takes the work out of travel planning so her clients can enjoy the fun.

Fun Travel Gal books cruises, resorts, hotels, car rentals, sporting events and concerts for individuals and families. Teresa also helps clients choose and book excursions that fit their trips. There is no fee for her services.

Teresa’s background in customer service has played a key role in her transition to the travel industry. She was twice ranked the #1 Customer Service Expert in the world by GlobalGurus.org. Through her business, Common Sense Solutions, she trained thousands of business professionals across the United States and abroad on service strategies designed to build business success. She is also the author of two books on customer service and spent more than 35 years as a keynote speaker at corporate and association meetings and events. “When you are the keynote speaker, no one can take your place, so travel planning and preparing for all contingencies is critical,” Teresa said. “My knowledge of how to navigate the travel world now works for my clients!”

When the meetings industry changed during COVID, Teresa began looking for another way to use her skills. Her love of travel and meeting people made becoming a travel agent a natural transition. “Not many people can say their travel agent is a world ranked customer service expert!”

Teresa admitted she is “fairly OBSESSED” with making sure everything goes well on a client’s trip. When unexpected problems arise, she knows how to adjust and find a solution. “I absolutely LOVE helping clients find the perfect destination and hospitality provider,” she stated. Rather than directing clients to her own favorite destination or cruise line, Teresa asks questions about their budget, timeline and preferred activities before making recommendations.

Teresa also gives back through Impact100 Northwest Florida, where she has been a member for eight years and served three years on the board as Membership and Events Chair. She said the organization’s members have funded more than $5 million in grants to local nonprofits in Okaloosa and Walton counties.

For Teresa, Fun Travel Gal is about making travel easier while putting her customer service experience to work. “Whether you use a travel agent or not, you are paying for travel agent services,” Teresa said. “Your cost is the same whether you are doing all the work and booking directly or letting us handle all of the details for you.”

Coming up, Teresa has organized the second annual “Cruisin’ Ladies” trip with 18 women. She also has a group cruise to Alaska planned for next June with 24 people, and space remains available. Call Fun Travel Gal to book YOUR next memorable adventure!