Randy, a teacher at EPI Hospitality School, specialized in subjects like Hospitality Law, F&B Cost Control, and the Science of Wine and Spirits, has a unique story. For 19 years, he has already shared his knowledge with students in the field of Hospitality, but now he has managed to transform his passion for this industry into one of his two careers. It all began with the acquisition of a tour permit. This permit led him and a friend to establish Alpha Tours. Randy's unique combination of experience has become the driving force behind the success of his company, beyond the classroom.
You can have a world of experience, but starting a new business always comes with challenges, and for Alpha Tours, it was no different. "You enter a market dominated by established giants, and proving yourself is essential. What sets us apart from the competition is our personalized and luxurious level of service. Simply, exceptional service." For Randy, the most gratifying part of his work is dealing with people. "Hospitality is all about people. Normally, we are the ones who welcome them to the island, and we are also the ones who bid them farewell and invite them to visit us again soon. You develop a great personal relationship with your customers." Randy is enthusiastic about the opportunities created by the Vacation Rentals industry. It has not only been a significant contribution to Aruba's economy but has also opened doors for businesses like Alpha Tours.
"The larger/older companies have all sales points within most hotels blocked, making it very difficult, if not almost impossible, for new and smaller companies to compete/sell to hotel customers. The Vacation Rentals industry has opened up a new market with a level playing field, allowing us to compete, survive, and thrive."
"The market is generally defined by the consumer. If there is growth in vacation rentals, it's because there is an increase in demand. Also, since most major hotels are owned by foreigners, a large chunk, 80% according to the Minister of Tourism, will leave the island. This is not the case with Vacation Rentals, where local people are also largely owners.
This diversifies our industry and creates opportunities for new and upcoming businesses. For us specifically, it has become 40-50% of our business, giving our business a significant boost and allowing us to become competitive in the local transportation market."