Meet Maurice Smith

Today we’d like to introduce you to Maurice Smith.

Thanks for sharing your story with us Maurice. So, let’s start at the beginning and we can move on from there.
I started my first blog in 2012, which was a lifestyle blog with its main focus on sneaker culture. Because of my passion for shoes, I attended a number of events and trade shows around the country which of course required me to travel whenever possible. I was working a full-time job and trying to build a brand at the same time, which was honestly extremely difficult to manage, not only from an operational standpoint but also mentally and financially.

As my following began to increase, I would receive invites to events all over the US and even out of the country on occasion. Coincidentally, I was introduced to the travel industry from the perspective of a travel professional and my initial interest in the profession was an opportunity for me to save on my travel expenses and my taxes…I did not know that this would be the start of a new career. I immediately fell in love with the industry and committed to learning as much as I could. I started off with a small client base, booking a variety of vacations for close family and friends without focusing on a particular market or niche. During this timeframe, I was dedicated to building my knowledge base and really began to focus on the relational aspect of marketing my services, all while using the established platform that I built from my blog as a tool to reach more people. Approximately five years now into my role of a travel advisor, I’ve transitioned to focusing on luxury travel and bespoke itineraries. In doing so, I’ve evolved my “sneaker blog” into a lifestyle blog with a strong focus on luxury travel and everything “lifestyle” pertaining to travel… from accessories to luggage to some of the most fascinating accommodations in the world. This project launched April 29, 2019, and I’m excited as to what’s in store for Eugene Toriko!

Great, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
The road hasn’t been smooth at all. Being new to the industry almost 5 years ago, I still have a lot to learn as travel is an industry that evokes itself but also, you have to keep up with technology and marketing trends. Some of my main struggles early on were building a solid client base and trying to find a niche market that I was passionate about. Another MAJOR obstacle was discrediting the myths that people have about travel advisors like myself. The traditional brick and mortar travel agency no longer exist with the emergence of online retailers like Expedia, Travelocity, Priceline, etc., so I had to learn to sell the value of a travel advisor like myself.

Please tell us more about what you do, what you are currently focused on and most proud of.
I’ve pretty much evolved my previous brand, which was a sneaker/lifestyle blog (Sole Obsessed) and online boutique, to what I have today. The main focus isn’t sneakers anymore, it’s travel. Eugene is my middle name and the word Toriko is Japanese and means to be held captive by something, fixated, captured. It all comes together as my audience will watch the brand evolve.

I’m a Travel Advisor, specializing in luxury travel across the globe and customized itineraries based on my client’s needs. I create captive experiences with my overall goal being to provide exceptional service to my clients. My main focus is to create positive memorable experiences of a lifetime. Anyone can book a hotel, flight, rental car but what kind of experience do you have? From the initial consultation until the time you arrive back home safely, I involve myself heavily into planning my client’s itineraries. This is worrying about free travel at its best! Transportation, activities, hotel accommodations, and even airfare are all secured for my clients as I work with some of the top vendors and suppliers in the industry. I’m certified with multiple tourist boards across the globe, ambassador for hotel chains/brands, certified with major cruise lines, etc. I leverage these relationships to help provide an exceptional experience for my clients.

Is there a characteristic or quality that you feel is essential to success?
The most important characteristic of my success is authenticity. One of my major beliefs is that in order to reach what you define as success, you have to have a certain level of passion for what you’re involved in. Without passion, you’ll eventually reach a plateau. I’m not driven by money or financial gain solely. My main objective is to help people create memories. When my clients travel, it’s almost like I’m traveling. I want to ensure that everything goes smoothly and that come back from their vacation more than satisfied. This is what sets me apart from others in the industry and online retailers. Building on the relational aspect of my client interactions is what I focus on. You have to be genuine, passionate and authentic in order to succeed in this industry.

Contact Info:

• Website: www.toriko.us
• Email: travel inquiry/bookings: travel@toriko.us press: press@toriko.us general info: info@toriko.us
• Instagram: www.instagram.com/mosmitty404 www.instagram.com/eugenetorikotravel
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eugenetorikotravel
• Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/eugenetoriko

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