From the serene sandy beaches of coastal towns to the bustling streets of city centers around the world, travel transforms us, exposing us to different cultures, people, and life experiences. A leading figure, whose relentless efforts in the travel industry have shaped our understanding of the adventure that travel can be, is set to take her final bow. Her name is Paula Twidale, and her impending retirement from AAA in late 2024 is an event of note. Paula’s tireless work ethic and vision have not only enhanced AAA’s reputation, but she’s also paved the way for explorers and travel enthusiasts alike to see the world through a larger purview.
Paula Twidale, the impressive senior vice president of the AAA Travel organization, has announced her decision to retire by the end of 2024. Paula has been a paragon at AAA, inspiring countless individuals with her visionary approach to travel and her dedication to enhancing customer experiences. Her leadership and invaluable contributions to the organization will have a lasting impact.
Paula’s legacy at AAA includes developing and implementing strategic plans and initiatives to advance the organization’s presence and performance in the travel sector. As a result of her efforts, AAA recognized significant growth within travel services, budding from her innovative approaches to adapting to a rapidly changing environment.
Her innovative leadership resonated throughout her tenure, from situational adaptation to exceptional growth strategies, all contributors to solidify AAA’s standing in the competitive travel industry. To set a vivid picture of her impact at AAA, the organization saw its largest membership growth in history, surging from 58 million to 62 million members.
While the news of Paula’s retirement might be initially met with heavy hearts, it’s crucial to acknowledge her monumental role in uplifting a generation of travelers and shaping AAA’s robust travel division. There’s no doubt that her absence will be felt, yet the lasting impacts of her leadership will continue to resonate long after her departure.
Paula’s departure doesn’t spell the end of AAA, but rather signifies the beginning of a new era. An era defined by the lessons learned and the experiences gleaned from her leadership. AAA remains at the forefront of providing its members with unmatched travel services and experiences, all thanks to the foundation built by Paula and her team. As they forge ahead, her legacy will undoubtedly remain amplified in AAA’s ambition to continue unleashing the joy and transformative power of travel for its millions of members.
A crucial role for AAA going forward will be to continue fostering meaningful relationships with its members while carrying forward the high levels of performance, innovation, and service that have become synonymous with the AAA brand during Paula’s time. The wheels are already in motion for AAA to continue thriving in this fast-paced and ever-evolving sector while maintaining the high standards Paula set during her tenure.
As we approach the horizon of Paula Twidale’s career at AAA, we tip our hats to her unwavering commitment, passion, and leadership that have indeed set a truly inspiring course not merely for a brand, but for an industry. Surely, her contribution will remain a touchstone, resonating deeply within the realms of the travel sphere. So, while it’s indeed a farewell to her role at AAA, it’s certainly not a goodbye to Paula Twidale’s remarkable legacy — a legacy built on dedication, vision, and an undying love of travel.
Ava Thompson is a vibrant and adventurous travel writer, who has been captivating audiences with her vivid storytelling and insightful travel tips for nearly a decade. At the age of 29, Ava has already traversed the globe, exploring over 60 countries on six continents. Her passion for discovery and her degree in Cultural Anthropology from the University of California, Berkeley, have fueled her pursuit to uncover the world’s hidden gems and share them with her readers.
Ava’s journey into travel writing began shortly after her graduation, when she embarked on a year-long solo backpacking trip. Her experiences, from the bustling markets of Southeast Asia to the serene landscapes of the Scandinavian fjords, became the foundation of her now-popular travel blog. This platform not only showcased her talent for engaging narrative but also her keen eye for the cultural nuances that make each destination unique.
As the lead travel writer for a major online news outlet, Ava specializes in off-the-beaten-path destinations, sustainable travel practices, and cultural immersion experiences. Her articles are a treasure trove of practical advice, covering everything from budget-friendly itineraries to luxury retreats, always with a focus on traveling respectfully and responsibly.
Beyond her written work, Ava is a sought-after speaker at travel conferences, where she shares her expertise on ethical tourism and the transformative power of travel. She is also deeply involved in various conservation projects, advocating for the protection of natural sites and cultural heritage around the world.
Ava’s infectious enthusiasm for adventure and her commitment to sustainable tourism make her a beloved and inspiring figure in the travel community. Through her stories, she encourages her readers to embrace the unknown, connect with different cultures, and see the world with an open heart and mind.
