LOCAL LEGENDS: How Continental Travel Group transforms travel dreams into reality

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In the realm of travel, few names resonate as strongly as Continental Travel Group, led by the visionary President Darryl Silver. Founded in 1956, the company was located within the hustle and bustle of the downtown Hudson Bay Store.

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Yet it wasn’t until 1984, when Daryl Silver bought the company, that the transformation began. When you stop in at their beautiful Portage Avenue office space and meet the team of travel experts, you know you are going places when you connect with the Continental Travel Group. Silver’s leadership in guiding the company toward unparalleled innovation, community engagement, and customer satisfaction has been a great guiding light for the team.

Silver’s unique journey in the travel industry began with organizing concert trips for groups to see their favourite bands, primarily across the border. This early experience sparked a profound passion for travel, shaping a career dedicated to making exploration accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

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Daryl says, “Travel has the power to transform lives. It’s not just about reaching a destination; it’s about experiencing the world and creating lasting memories.” His belief in travel as a catalyst for personal growth is a driving force behind Continental Travel Group’s mission.

Under Daryl’s leadership, the company has grown to serve a broad clientele base, including corporate entities, private clients, local professional sports teams, and tour groups traversing the globe’s most exotic destinations. Daryl and his team of 30 travel experts are ready to serve all your travel needs, and their service excellence mindset is a hallmark of the company.

At Continental, Daryl says, “We don’t focus on contracts, we focus on satisfied clients.” This philosophy permeates every aspect of the business, evident in the personalized travel solutions crafted by their exceptional team.

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Daryl is committed to his family, staff, and friends and is a staunch supporter of Winnipeg, Manitoba, and Canada. He supports the community, assists non-profits, sits on local and national boards, and works towards Indigenous Reconciliation.

At Continental Travel Group, employees are more than just workers, they are vital to the organization’s success. The team is committed to delivering unforgettable experiences, with a mantra centred on outstanding service, providing savings and the best possible deals. Their dedication shines through in the memorable journeys they create, supported by a positive, nurturing work environment that fosters growth and satisfaction.

Daryl focuses on the team’s well-being beyond professional development and emphasizes building strong workplace relationships believing that a valued and happy team translates directly into excellent client service. As he puts it, “A happy team creates happy travellers.”

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Community involvement holds a special place in Daryl’s heart, and his team actively participates in various initiatives that support local charities and organizations and reflect their core values. Their community-minded approach aligns seamlessly with the business model, where fostering genuine relationships is a strong foundation for the team.

As the world awakens to the joys of travel in a post-pandemic landscape, Daryl inspires seasoned travellers and novices alike to embark on adventures near and far. He believes travel enriches lives and cultivates a deeper understanding of diverse cultures. Recently returning from Italy, Darryl delighted in the region’s rich history and culinary wonders. His adventurous spirit also extends to skiing and golfing, affirming his belief that life should be embraced in all its fullness.

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To assist potential travellers in their journey planning, here are four essential tips to ensure a successful experience:

Plan early and be flexible

Booking your trip in advance can secure better rates, while being flexible with your travel dates can yield significant savings. Consider booking during off-peak seasons for the best deals.

Research your destination

Familiarize yourself with local customs, cuisine, and attractions. This knowledge enhances your experience and fosters a deeper connection with the places you visit.

Pack smart

Create a checklist of essentials and strive to pack light. Have you ever returned home realizing you didn’t even wear half of the clothes you brought? Many have! Fewer bags facilitate easier navigation through airports and local transport, and you’ll save on baggage fees.

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Stay connected

Share your travel itinerary with friends and family for safety. Using travel apps can enhance your journey, providing helpful insights from nearby attractions to language translation.

Through a relentless passion for travel, an unwavering commitment to customer service, and a strong focus on community involvement, Darryl Silver and his team at Continental Travel Group exemplify the best of what the travel industry can offer. They are true local legends dedicated to crafting exceptional experiences for travellers. Their experience transcends conventional business models, making them leaders in the field while nurturing authentic relationships.

As Daryl reminds us, “The world is a beautiful place waiting to be explored; all you need to do is take that first step.”

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This unwavering belief in the transformative potential of travel encourages people to venture beyond their comfort zones and discover the wonders that lie just beyond their doorsteps.

Whether you are plotting your first adventure or planning your next escape, the Continental Travel Group stands ready. They are ready to turn your personal, corporate or group travel dreams into reality, helping you explore a world of endless possibilities. Stop by their office at 1345 Portage Avenue, find them online continentaltravel.ca or call them at 204-989-8575. When you connect with Darryl, tell him that Art sent you to help you journey beyond borders.

— Art Alexander is a leadership expert and the founder of Art Alexander and Associates. With a deep understanding of people and business, Art helps organizations thrive through leadership training and DISC personality assessments. You can reach Art at [email protected]

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