e-Travel Blackboard: What drew you to work in the travel industry?
 Chris: I grew up with 30 years worth of Nat Geo Magazines in the bookshelves - I've never wanted anything else other than to see the world - and this industry is probably the best way to do it. I've also taken so many holidays, its the only thing I feel I am qualified to discuss. Ask me about politics for proof.

e-Travel Blackboard: What do you like most about your job?
Chris: I get to talk about awesome amazing destinations and activities for a living. I get to present a product I truly believe in. I once worked in a call centre selling printer toner cartridges, it didn't quite fulfil my dreams. Being out on the road also provides the opportunity to never feel 'stuck' in the office - something I don't seem to do very well.

e-Travel Blackboard: Who do you admire and see as a role model in the travel industry?
Chris: My Captain Bruce Poon Tip is a pretty impressive guy - he spends so much of his time refocusing G Adventures on matters larger and more important that just profit growth. Aside from the boss, whoever wants to give me an upgrade on my next flight - there's an opening on my role model list..

e-Travel Blackboard: What do you want to see improve in the industry?
Chris: I'd love to see better respect for the role of travel agents/travel professionals - I truly believe they add value, the internet is no competition to first hand knowledge coupled with great service. A good travel professional isn't just a salesperson, they're passionate people who turn peoples dreams into reality. I'd also like to see better cohesion and support between travel providers, particularly airlines, and travel agents - we all have the same goals (bums on seats essentially) but sometimes it seems like there's two teams out there. I'd also like a moratorium on acronym creations.

e-Travel Blackboard: What destinations are on your travel bucket list?
Chris: Antarctica, Iran and Colombia

e-Travel Blackboard: What’s a memorable travel experience you’ve had (good or bad)?
Chris: My wife gave me the green light to go to the north pole when she was 8 months pregnant (I'm still in trouble)Polar bears rock.

e-Travel Blackboard: What are three things you must always take with you when you travel?
Chris: Money, an open mind, and patience

e-Travel Blackboard: Name someone famous with whom you’d like to travel and where you’d to take them.
Chris: Ewan McGregors last couple of trips had a pretty extensive budget.. I'd let him tag along...if not Rick Stein can cook me dinner as we plod along.