Pat Rochon
Where were you born? In Toronto.
How long have you been in the business? 17 years. Before that I worked as a computer systems analyst for the federal government.
What’s the best part of the job? Talking to people about adventure travel, opening their horizons and hearing them say, “Wow! I could do that!”
What did you want to be as a kid? A pilot.
What was your 1st job? When I was 14, stocking toilet paper into residences at Ottawa U. (laughs) I was a sanitary engineer!
What’s the scariest thing you’ve ever done? Parapenting – jumping with a parachute off a mountain in New Zealand. And I crashed into a bush with wicked 2 inch thorns. That’s one of many!
Any guilty pleasures? Chocolate.
Do you have a favourite travel app? Tripit.com
What do people not know about you? Yes, I can relax!
Any hobbies or interests? Golf, gardening, diving, cycling, trekking and travel. Love travel.
How many countries have you been to? 137.
When were you happiest? Spending time with my mum when she was alive.
What skill or talent do you admire in someone? Anyone who can play a musical instrument, or speak multiple languages. Also handymen.
Is there anything you won’t eat? The weird stuff like cockroaches and tarantulas. I’ll pretty well try anything once.
Ever had a brush with fame? I met Bobby Orr when I played Triple A hockey.
How do you spend your frequent flyer points? I give them away to family and friends.
What was your proudest moment? Shooting par in a game of golf. And climbing Kilimanjaro with my father.
What is your greatest extravagance? Shopping for gifts overseas. The only thing I really spend money on is travel.
If you could change 1 thing about the industry what would it be? Airport security.
If you could sit next to anyone on a long-haul flight who would it be? Jane Goodall.
Do you have a favourite charity? African Preschool Society, based in Victoria B.C.
What do you hope to be doing in 10 years? Teaching. I don’t think I’ll ever retire. And travelling of course!
