Immerse yourself in travel!

We shared an opportunity across our socials last month, inviting readers to nominate their own business or tag a business they felt deserved a free promotional story in our March issue, reaching over 30,000 readers in print and more online. Congratulations to the #communityspotlight winner, Mooloolah-based Kim Rudd with her Mobile Travel Agent (MTA) franchisee business, Reset Travel MTA!

By Victoria McGuin

Offering everything from bespoke luxury tours and family getaways, to cruises and adventure holidays, Kim’s mobile travel business, Reset Travel MTA, is a labour of love - and she wouldn’t have it any other way!

“First, may I say a huge thank you for supporting local businesses,” said Kim. “Your post created so much good energy and reach for every business that engaged.”Kim said, “I’m the genie behind Reset Travel MTA, the agency that I like to think helps wishes come true and I believe my distinct approach to travel sets me apart.”

In 2019, Kim and her children returned to Mooloolah Valley after a two-year absence, and reconnected with the local community, settling back into school and work after a separation. 

“As a sole parent, ensuring a stable and nurturing environment for my children during this transition was of utmost importance,” said Kim.“I revitalised my home-based travel agency when I started as an MTA franchisee, under the banner Kim Rudd - MTA Travel, injecting it with new energy and purpose. 

“Part of this renewed strategy reflects my commitment to more than just providing a service—it's about being a devoted travel companion, wholly dedicated to ensuring each journey is nothing short of extraordinary. 

“This extends beyond conventional business hours, setting me apart from the limitations of a bricks-and-mortar store. It's one of my distinctive points of difference. 

“Balancing the responsibilities of solo parenthood, I prioritise being available and adaptable for my children while concurrently managing my business. This flexibility allows me to create memorable experiences for my clients while maintaining a supportive and nurturing environment for my family.”Kim recalled the challenges of the Covid pandemic, which struck mere months after her business relaunch.

“I pivoted due to the pressing need to be available for my children (homeschooling during lockdowns, ugh!) and generate an income, all the while still managing the never-ending refunds and travel credits for my clients. 

“During this time, I initiated a successful cleaning business with another school Mum. Within six months, we expanded to over 12 team members of local women.” 

As travel rebounded and managing both businesses became challenging, the two women strategically transitioned and closed the cleaning business, with a seamless handover of clients to the rest of the team.

“In navigating this journey, resilience has been my constant companion,” admitted Kim with a laugh.“This transformative period also marked the rebranding of my travel agency as Reset Travel MTA with a more defined focus on immersive tourism and sustainable travel.

“At the core of my travel agency, I offer emergency support 24/7 and provide out-of-office hours appointments. This commitment to personalised service goes beyond the ordinary, ensuring I am available whenever it suits my clients best.”In a recent instance, Kim shared, a young client embarked on their inaugural solo trip to India and found themselves unwell in their Delhi hotel room. His distressing call reached Kim in the middle of the night. 

Without hesitation, Kim connected with their travel insurance, collaborated with the hotel staff, and orchestrated a visit from a local doctor. This personalised touch exemplifies the unique service ethos of Reset Travel MTA.Another incident involved a client facing cancelled flights due to industrial issues after an Antarctic cruise. Kim quickly reorganised their travel arrangements, ensuring they had a comfortable solution—all while they were still enjoying their holiday. 

“I believe this ability to handle challenges with professionalism and empathy defines my commitment to clients,” Kim said with a warm smile.“I want to emphasise that none of this would have been possible without the unwavering support of my local community. Their encouragement, assistance, and belief in my endeavours have been the bedrock of my success, and I’m so grateful.”