What is it like to travel as an introvert? Though they aren't exactly excited to come out of their shells and meet new people, connecting with nature and new adventures are definitely up their alleys.
So, when travel combines both of those, how does an introvert find a trip that allows them to relax on and fully enjoy the experience?
Meet Jacob Marek at IntroverTravels. Marek is a self-described introvert, and he handcrafts tailor-made journeys for people just like him.
TravelPulse sat down with Marek to find out how he got started in this unique niche.
TravelPulse: What gave you the idea to start a travel company dedicated to introverts?
Jacob Marek: I started my travel business last summer. I worked in travel marketing for a little more than 10 years, and I always felt like I was standing on the sidelines watching other travel advisors do really cool and interesting things. I wanted a niche of my own.
A couple of years ago, I was on a solo hiking trip in Capitol Reef National Park, Utah, and on the trip, I had an "ah-ha" epiphany. I thought I could incorporate nature, travel and adventure into my life. But then I asked myself, "How can I play up my strengths and be authentic. What niche is that?" And what came to mind was introverts. That was the demographic that I went after.
My portfolio is built around nature, culture and history. Soft adventure is the angle I am going for, and I use a two-part planning experience.
Two parts rest and recharge time and one part mind-blowing experience. The amount of adventure depends on the client.
TP: Do you determine if people are introverts before working with them?
JM: I don't give people a Meyers Briggs test or anything like that. I let [my clients] self-identify. This is a style of travel that would appeal to curious types of people and if you are an extrovert who relates to these trips, it can be a good fit.
TP: So you coined the phrase "Entreprenomad?" What does that mean exactly?
JM: Yes. I spend about six months a year traveling, and then I'm based in the U.S. for the rest of the year. I live in South Dakota now and then abroad the other half of the year.
The cost of living is more affordable this way. I went from Miami to Peru, and I am spending this winter in Thailand.
Living abroad allows me to build the business more realistically. I am not making irrational decisions because I step away. It also allows me to establish credibility and authority in destinations I want to sell.
TP: What kind of training did you do before you started IntroverTravel?
JM: I did a lot of the courses through the different tourism boards. I represented many tourism boards when I was in travel marketing, and I helped develop specialist programs.
TP: What is the best investment you have made in your business?
The first is just living abroad for six months of the year. It unlocks creativity. I challenge myself and stress myself out a little.
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I also joined a Mastermind Group. It's for online businesses, not the travel industry but the tool and knowledge that you get for operating an online business is worth the $70 a month. The education and resources are unmatched.
TP: What does participation in ASTA mean to you and your business?
JM: I rejoined ASTA and have really been inspired by how they have thrown their weight behind niche businesses. I do see that there is a lot of support from ASTA for my type of industry. TravelSense has also brought several clients to me. ASTA advocacy and having an organization dedicated to trying to change laws is something I'm not knowledgeable about but that I really appreciate. I have been really impressed over the last 12 months.
The quality and sales leads have been invaluable.
If you want to hear more from Jacob Marek and his niche travel business, be sure to check out the "What's Your Travel Niche? Innovative Business Models" at the ASTA Global Convention taking place in San Diego Aug. 27-29.
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