Today I found out about another trip. It is only a very short one, but a very exciting one.
When I changed jobs, I had to work towards my CLIA accreditation. CLIA is the professional body for anything to do with cruises. I did a bunch of courses through their online academy, had to upload the details of any cruises taken since May 2012 and finally had to write two blogs. For this, I got my Master status, which is the highest status you can get with them. When I submitted my last blog, I was encouraged to enter for an Agent Achievement Award for CLIA Masters. I was not keen. I am not very good at blowing my own trumpet at the best of times and considering that I had just changed jobs and was new to the cruise industry, I felt a bit like a fraud. I made the mistake of mentioning this to my boss and he was really keen on me entering. He periodically asked me if I had entered and with about a week to go before the closing date, I took the plunge. I kind of expected that this would be the end of it.
Today while I was in town running errands, I suddenly decided to check my work emails. I can do this via an app on the phone. I had an email from CLIA to let me know that I am one of the finalists for the award and have been invited to an awards ceremony in London in July. CLIA will cover the cost for the event and the company will cover train tickets and a night in a hotel. I rang my boss straightaway and he is as excited as I am. So now I have to start giving some thought as to what gown is making the trip to London as this is a formal event. I think the Heart of the Ocean should definitely feature in the outfit. I still can't believe that I actually made it in the final. I do not believe for a minute that I will actually walk away with the award, but this would be amazing.
Corinna