TORONTO — Marking six and a half decades of operations this year, Around the World Travel in Nanaimo, B.C. has been through it all.

From the early days as the new kid on the block, to the high-flying days of airline expansion and the ascendancy of the travel agent, to the pitfalls of direct bookings, commission caps and cuts, the Internet and OTAs and the pandemic, Around the World Travel has seen it all, and prospered.

For any storefront business, a 65-year run is a success story.

When that business is a travel agency, it’s something more. It’s an incredible testament to hard work, grit and knowing that great customer service is always the top priority.

Just how far back does the agency go? The agency, which opened in 1959 in the former Malaspina Hotel in Nanaimo, pre-dates even BC Ferries, which didn’t debut until 1960 (and didn’t service the vital route between Nanaimo’s Departure Bay and Vancouver’s Horseshoe Bay until 1961). By the way, the lead-in nightly room rate in the 1950s for the Malaspina Hotel was $1.75.

Around the World Travel’s current president, Nazir Hirji, has been in the travel business for over 40 years. Born in Tanzania, and growing up in Kenya until he was 21, Hirji took over the agency in 2009. “It was originally founded as a family business. It was later passed down to the daughter, who managed it until 2009, when I took it over,” he tells Travelweek.

 We asked Hirji about the secret to Around the World Travel’s success.

“The key to a travel agency’s success lies in adaptability, expertise, and personalized service,” he says.

“The travel industry is constantly evolving, and successful agencies embrace change rather than resist it. Many of us remember the days of hand-written tickets and flight coupons when fares only changed once or twice a year. Now, with dynamic pricing, countless options, and ever-changing rules, our role as travel advisors has never been more valuable.”

He adds that while technology and artificial intelligence “have transformed how travel is booked, human connection and expert guidance remain irreplaceable. Many clients, especially older ones, struggle with online check-ins, electronic travel authorizations, or navigating complex itineraries. They rely on us to handle the details and ensure a seamless experience.”

More than anything, the key to success is relationship-building, he tells Travelweek, an ethos that Hirji and his team of talented travel advisors take to heart. “By understanding our clients’ preferences and travel styles, we offer tailored recommendations –whether it’s the perfect cruise, a dream resort, or a hidden gem destination. Our expertise and insights save them time, reduce stress, and enhance their overall experience.”

The best part? “To many of our clients, we’re more than just travel agents – we’re trusted advisors.”

We also asked Hirji what he loves most about the travel industry.

“The best part of being in the travel industry is the opportunity to create unforgettable experiences for people,” he says.

Nazir Hirji in Tanzania

“Travel has the power to transform, inspire and bring joy, and being able to play a role in making someone’s dream trip a reality is incredibly fulfilling. I also love the ever-evolving nature of the industry – no two days are the same! There’s always something new to learn, whether it’s a destination, a hidden gem, or an emerging travel trend.”

Ultimately for Harji it’s all about the people, a sentiment no doubt echoed by just about everyone in this industry.

“Most importantly, the relationships I’ve built – both with clients and industry partners – are truly special. It’s a business of connections, and seeing the excitement and gratitude from clients when they return from a trip makes it all worthwhile.”