Name: Alicia Cummings
Title: Vice president, marketing Company, city: Paul Gauguin Cruises; Bellevue, Washington
Number of employees: 50 in the marketing, sales and operations departments in Bellevue
Recent project: Planning our marketing efforts for 2020 First job: Driving a wheat truck on our small family farm in Eastern Washington.
Little-known fact about you: I drove a 1965 Ford Mercury throughout high school.
YOUR BUSINESS
What innovations/initiatives do you foresee in the industry over the next years?
The cruise industry continues to grow and showcase fresh, creative and innovative ideas. New destinations are emerging, and dining, onboard activities, technological advances, sustainability efforts and exclusive experiences raise the bar. Multigenerational and experiential cruising continues as a hot trend in 2020. And cruising remains a great way to explore a variety of destinations at an incredible value.
Best career advice you’ve received: Take advantage of every opportunity even if it doesn’t fall under your job responsibilities. This is how you learn to work with different people and broaden your vision and allows others to see your commitment and strengths.
What advice would you give someone starting out in the field?
Find someone you respect and admire and learn all you can from them.
AS A TRAVELER
Favorite travel memory or story: One of my favorites is my first time snorkeling in Bora Bora. The warm water and kaleidoscopic display of exotic fish and stingrays were breathtaking.
One travel tip you cannot live without: Always carry a light blanket for the plane ride. Inevitably one leg will be miserably cold.
Best advice for business travelers: If possible, avoid Monday and Friday travel, as those tend to be the busiest days to fly.
ABOUT YOUR BRAND
What can our readers expect from Paul Gauguin’s 2020 itineraries? Paul Gauguin Cruises delivers an authentic experience of Polynesia infused with South Seas exclusives. We bring the destination alive to our guests both ashore and on board. We sail Tahiti, French Polynesia and the South Pacific year-round. Our 2020 schedule features signature voyages to a host of exquisite islands with white-sand beaches, aqua lagoons, mist-laden mountains and warm Polynesian culture. Itineraries include the seven-night Tahiti & the Society Islands; seven-night Society Islands & Tahiti Iti; 10-night Society Islands & Tuamotus; 11-night Cook Islands & Society Islands; and 14-night Marquesas, Tuamotus & Society Islands. Also featured are 12- and 13-night Fiji, Tonga, Cook & Society Islands and an exotic 16-night Fiji-to-Bali voyage.
What does Paul Gauguin offer premium travelers? Designed to sail the pristine lagoons of the islands, the award-winning, 332-guest m/s Paul Gauguin is the longest continually sailing cruise ship in this destination. Nearly 70 percent of its suites and staterooms offer balconies, and upper categories feature butler service. Dining includes L’Etoile, showcasing expertly prepared culinary creations each evening, while La Veranda and Le Grill serve breakfast and lunch. At night, La Veranda offers signature dishes designed by French celeb- rity chef Jean-Pierre Vigato, and Le Grill serves Polynesian specialties poolside.
Les Gauguines and Les Gauguins — our exclusive troupe of Tahitian entertainers — provide enriching experiences of the destinations throughout each voyage. The Gauguin also features expert lecturers on each voyage, and special guests on select sailings conduct presentations on topics ranging from the history of the South Pacific to conservation, culture, marine life and coral reefs. A luxurious spa, fitness center, watersports marina with kayaking and paddle boarding, and expansive outdoor decks with chaise longues and a pool are also available.
Each sailing provides exclusive access to Motu Mahana, our private islet off the coast of Taha’a, where guests enjoy sunbathing, swimming, snorkeling, kayaking, Polynesian activities, a full-service bar, a floating lagoon bar and a delicious barbecue. In Bora Bora, guests enjoy complimentary access to a private, white-sand beach with beach volleyball, sunbathing, snorkeling and paddle boarding.
With Ponant acquiring Paul Gauguin, what does the future hold for the company? This acquisition allows Paul Gauguin Cruises to expand the brand and offer additional luxury, small-ship experiences. We remain dedicated to our shared passion for authentic experiences, exceptional services and sustainable practices.
Read This Next
By Land and Sea
November 2019
Nov 13, 2019Introducing
FX Excursions
FX Excursions offers the chance for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in destinations around the world.
#globility
Insta FeedDaily
Nov 8, 2024K9 Jets Launches Pet-Dedicated, Pay-Per-Seat Private Service
Tired of getting stink-eye from your cat, or seeing the look of reproach on your dog’s face when they see the suitcases come out? We get it — and so do the folks at British-based K9 Jets, who have more than 25 years of industry experience. Their fleet of charter Gulfstream G-IVSP and G-V heavy jets are operated by licensed carriers in the United States and serve multiple international gates and destinations, including Dubai, Melbourne, Paris, Frankfurt, Geneva and Milan. Domestic flights include round-trip service between Los Angeles and New Jersey. U.S. operators are Argus Platinum Rated, and can accommodate up to nine people passengers and their pets.
Sponsored Content
United Airlines First to Purchase Sustainable Aviation Fuel for ORD
Chicago O’Hare International Airport will soon receive sustainable aviation fuel, all thanks to United Airlines, which became the first airline to purchase SAF for use at the airport, one of the largest in the United States. Neste, a producer of SAF, will provide up to 1 million gallons of its Neste MY Sustainable Aviation Fuel. The first supply arrived in August.
November 2024
Nov 8, 2024Asado, Music and Belle Époque Architecture Await in Uruguay’s Vibrant Capital
South America’s southernmost capital city, Montevideo is easy to fall in love with — particularly if you visit during the pleasant Southern Hemisphere summer months, between November and February. Abounding with famous white-sand beaches like Playa de los Pocitos, Playa Buceo and Playa Ramírez, Uruguay’s capital city lures with a laid-back lifestyle, sophisticated dining scene, and historical sites and eclectic architecture to admire, too.
Daily
Nov 8, 2024The Gant Aspen Reveals Winter 2024–2025 Offerings
The Gant, in Aspen, Colorado, offers travelers a collection of curated winter experiences.
Sponsored Content
Sailing the Ionian Sea: Explore Greece’s Nautical Gems
Sailing the Ionian Sea is an enchanting way to experience Greece's breathtaking islands and pristine waters. Known for its favorable winds, calm seas and stunning landscapes, the Ionian Sea offers a paradise for both experienced sailors and those looking to explore for the first time. From lively beaches to secluded bays, these waters have something for every traveler seeking adventure and relaxation.
Daily
Nov 8, 2024What are the World’s 50 Best Bars for 2024?
Last month, the World’s 50 Best Bars were officially announced for 2024, revealing a diverse array of bars and cocktail lounges across the world that capture the best of creativity in the world of spirits. This year, Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico City, Mexico, ranks as the top bar in the world, marking the first time a bar from Mexico takes the No. 1 spot.
eFlyer Reviews
Nov 6, 2024Kimpton Mas Olas Resort & Spa Review
Even with the recent proliferation of 5-star resorts between San Juan del Cabo and Cabo San Lucas, Todos Santos has defined itself as a quiet yet vibrant alternative for travelers seeking a more peaceful and exclusive Baja experience. Tucked into the nearby fishing village of El Pescadero, Kimpton Mas Olas Resort and Spa fits the bill and more than lives up to its 5-star designation.
Sponsored Content
Experience Next-Level Travel with Condor Airlines’ New A330neo Fleet
Condor Airlines completely renewed its long-haul fleet, featuring its new Airbus A330neo. Designed to elevate your travel experience, the A330neo is equipped with cutting-edge technology and offers unrivaled comfort, ensuring an exceptional journey for every passenger. With its striking signature striped livery, the A330neo not only promises a memorable flight but also enhances the start of your vacation from the moment you step aboard.
eFlyer News
Nov 6, 2024InterContinental Indianapolis Debuts This Winter
This winter, InterContinental Indianapolis, part of IHG Hotels & Resorts’ luxury and lifestyle portfolio, opens. Located just steps from Indiana’s State Capitol and the iconic Monument Circle, this property marks the first luxury hotel to open in the city in nearly 20 years.
ShareThis