2024 Fall Travel Trade Newsletter Spotlight

For each seasonal issue, we will spotlight a partner in our Travel Trade Community! Let us know if you would like to be our next “spotlight” guest.

This fall, we are pleased to highlight Q Duong. Regional Director of Sales & Marketing at the Sheraton, Marriott & Hilton Vancouver Airport Hotels.

Spotlight Questions:

How long have you been with Sheraton/Hilton/Marriott?  

I joined the company in 2011, and I am nearing my 13-year anniversary this fall. 

Who inspired you to pursue the career you have today?

My inspiration came from one of my previous Director of Sales, Sue Belzer. I was still quite new to hotel sales, and she was very informative and helpful in building my skillset. 

What do you love most about your job?

We can see the impact of our sales role on the entire hotel. The conferences, groups and business travelers that are staying at the hotel help contribute to the vibrancy of the environment, from delegates roaming around the hotel to go to their event sessions to groups dining and drinking in the restaurant lounge. A busy hotel is good for our staff and associates.   

Where were you born?

Winnipeg, Manitoba.  

What’s something about you (a fun fact) that few people know?

After university, I backpacked for 9 months around Southeast Asia and China. I visited 9 countries and did over 40 scuba dives. 

What’s one item you can’t live without?

My iPhone. It’s my alarm clock, diary, photobook, newsreader and much more. 

An item on your bucket list.

Spend one month or two to travel across Canada by train.

Favourite place you have visited?

Ko Tarutao, Thailand. I visited this remote island in Southern Thailand in 2004. There were not too many residents or travelers, even electricity. Lots of tranquility and peace. 

Tea or coffee?

Coffee, lattes are my favourite. 

If you could have lunch with anyone in the world who would be (could be alive or dead) and why?

Tiger Woods. I love playing golf and Tiger is one of the best golfers of all time. My passion for golf came from watching him play and win so many events.