Lynda Falcone
Where were you born? In Montreal.
How long have you been in the business? I started as a tour guide in the National Capital Commission in 1977… (calculates) 37 years ago! Wow!
What’s the best part of the job? I would say my VisitBritain and industry colleagues are my favourite part.
What did you want to be as a kid? A French teacher.
What’s the scariest thing you’ve ever done? Riding a roller coaster in Belmont Park in Montreal and I thought I was going to die. I’ll never do it again.
Any guilty pleasures? The Young and the Restless. I tape it every day.
What’s your favourite airline? Air Canada, everything about it – the service, the frequency, the in-flight entertainment.
Favourite hotel? The Rimrock Hotel near the hot springs in Banff . It’s where I spent my honeymoon.
What’s on your iPad? I don’t have iThings!
What do people not know about you? I used to be sanctioned as a judge in hot air ballooning.
Any hobbies or interests? I’ve been actively swimming in the Mississauga masters’ swim club… and walking.
When were you happiest? When my son was born. He’s 15 now. And living in the Rockies was a pretty happy time.
What skill or talent do you admire in someone? People who are crafty – sewing, knitting.
Is there anything you won’t eat? Bugs, like crickets.
What’s at the top of your bucket list? Italy.
What keeps you awake at night? Everything! I’m at that age. Anything I can think about!
How do you spend your frequent flyer points? On flights for family holidays.
What was your proudest moment? When my mum was 86, she was awarded a medal during the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee for volunteering.
What is your greatest extravagance? Home renovations.
How do you stay fit when you travel? Walking. It’s so easy in Britain.
If you could change one thing about the industry what would it be? I’d like to see businesses become more profitable so employees can earn higher salaries.
If you could sit next to anyone on a long-haul flight who would it be? Oprah.
Do you have a favourite charity? Heart and Stroke Foundation.
What will be the biggest challenge for the industry in the next 12 months? The falling Canadian dollar and the Internet. People aren’t involving travel companies in their vacation plans.
What do you hope to be doing in 10 years? I hope to be with VisitBritain as long as possible. And in retirement, become a tour escort again.
