The Gateway Travel Team

Dotty

Owner and Operator of Gateway Travel

Gateway Travel opened in 1976, right at the same location where our office still is today. I entered the picture when Gateway hired me in 1985, after having worked for 4 years with Madera Travel.

The Gateway team focused on improving what is still the core of our business: matching travelers’ budgets with their dreams. I know how important and heartfelt those dreams can be, as I had wanted to travel a great deal during the first few years of my career, but family and other obligations made that impossible at the time. Since those early years, I have had the opportunity to visit Fiji, Tahiti, the Cook Islands, and New Zealand, as well as Hawaii, Mexico, Jamaica and the US Virgin Islands (Obviously, my favorite travel destinations are anywhere that has a beach and a view of the ocean!)

The thrill and satisfaction of being able to fulfill my fantasies of travel gave me an even greater drive and desire to make our business something truly great and magical. In 2008, I became the owner of Gateway Travel, and haven’t lost any of my drive since then.

Mia

Mia joined the family in 2003 as a part-time agent, and transitioned to working with us full-time a couple of years later. She constantly goes above and beyond the call of duty in order to fulfill the desires and hopes of our customers. Despite having been with us for more than ten years, her passion has not diminished in the least. As she puts it, “I love working with people and making their dream vacations come true. Experiencing new destinations of all types is my passion.” Her desire to serve extends outside of the workplace, as she volunteers her time organizing mission trips abroad for her church. This November, they will be heading to England.

She has had the opportunity to visit Chile, Cabo, Puerto Vallarta, Guadalajara, Mazatlan, Canada, and many U.S destinations such as Hawaii, Puerto Rico, New York, Chicago, and Vermont. Mia also LOVES Disneyland and is happy to send her clients to the happiest place on earth.

Mary

I have worked in the travel industry for 25 years. I love to travel and experience new cultures and destinations.  I’m always up for any new adventure.  I’ve escorted and organized many cruise groups. I love working with people to make their travel dreams a reality.

Destination Weddings is a specialty of mine. I love working with the bride and groom to find the perfect destination for their special day!  You would be amazed at how affordable a Destination Wedding can be in comparison to a traditional wedding.  Whether it s an intimate celebration for just the two of you, or a grand ceremony and reception for 150 of your family and friends, I can help you find your perfect destination. Planning a destination wedding on your own can be frustrating and stressful.  However, with me as your Certified Destination Wedding Specialist, I will eliminate the worry and stress for you and your guest.

Places I’ve traveled include Africa, Austria, Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Cancun, Cozumel, Dominican Republic, Riviera Maya, Cabo San Lucas, Puerto Vallarta, Mazatlan, Hawaii, Jamaica, Scotland, Alaska, Vancouver and numerous U.S. cities. I’ve also sailed with several different cruise lines.

Debbie

I have been a travel agent for 25 years and started with Gateway Travel in 1980.  After moving to Kern County in 1991, I continued my travel career until 2005.  In 2014, I was able to return to Gateway Travel where it all began and am an Independent Consultant for the company.  Helping others achieve their travel goals is what motivates me.  I love creating new and exciting itineraries for my valued clientele.  As your agent, I will run weekly checks on your vacation to make sure that you are always receiving the best price and promotions.  I will be with you from start to finish, making sure that your holiday will be the experience of a lifetime!  I specialize in group travel arrangements and vacations to any where in the world.   My favorite destination to travel to is Hawaii.  There is nothing more pleasing than to disembark from an airplane and smell the sweet scent of plumeria in the air.  I became a Certified Hawaiian Specialist in 1999 and have grown quite knowledgeable of what the islands have to offer.  Cruising is another favorite of mine.  I earned my Master Cruise Counselor Certification at the CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) Institute in Miami, Florida in 1996 and have been fortunate enough to cruise some of the most exciting waters in the world!  Weather it be Destination Weddings, Sports Events or those Quirky little getaways, I can get the job done!  I look forward to meeting you soon to discuss your travel needs.