Travel Consultant Takes Clients Under Her Wing

Name of business:

Owner: Linda Tatten

How many years have you been in business?

August 14 marked Certified Travel Counselor and tour escort Linda Tatten's 40th year in business. For the last 10 of those years, she has been running her company out of her home in Marlborough. In the past, Tatten had offices in Lexington and Wellesley.

Do you live in Marlborough?

Tatten has visited over 50 countries and lived in Hawaii but she grew up in Marlborough. “I moved back here when my dad got sick,” said Tatten, “I opened my home office so that I could care for my aunt and keep her out of a nursing home."

What do you like best about running and owning your business?

“It is very rewarding to be involved in projects that mean something to me,” said Tatten, who specializes and is certified in Hawaiian travel. “One of the most rewarding things that I do is small, women-only groups. It’s a big market for women of all ages. Many are widows who have never traveled with anyone but their husbands. The group gives them the opportunity to try new things and socialize with other women.”

Tatten shared the motto of these trips, “A little wine, a lot of chocolate and women bond.”

“Women come to the edge of the cliff and then they help each other,” said Tatten, “I’m the mom. I always come on the trips and I always bring the chocolate.” Tatten packs Lindt chocolate for her customers.

Are you on Facebook or Twitter?

Travel by Tatten’s Facebook page is currently under construction but it is expected to be up and running by Monday, August 27.  The business is not on Twitter.  Click here to be linked to Tatten’s travel blog or sign up for the weekly newsletter by emailing her at lindat@travelbytatten.com.

Do you have any advice for someone new to the business?

“The industry is very different from when I started,” said Tatten, “I think specializing in an area is important as the travel consultant business is fluid.” Tatten also highlights the importance of social media and keeping up with your clients.

What do customers like about your business?

Tatten credits her clients’ enjoyment to her personal touch, “Tell me what you like and don’t like and I’ll take care of all of the details. I’m the mom.” She mentions that some people enjoy large hotels with a lot of amenities and others prefer a quaint inn for example.

Anything else you’d like us to know?

Travel by Tatten is affiliated with Signature Travel Network. “This membership gives me the buying power of a $5 billion company,” said Tatten, “I get specials on cruises, hotels, resorts, etc.” Tatten is also an agent for Gourmet Magazine and The Food Channel, having booked trips for chefs. She is available by appointment only.