Expedia Cruises Announces Signed Agreements in Utah and Idaho

By: Expedia CruiseShipCenters International Inc | 44 Shares 655 Reads

August 21, 2024 // Franchising.com // VANCOUVER - Expedia Cruises announces it has secured two separate single-unit franchise agreements.

The first agreement is for Bountiful, Utah - located just north of Salt Lake City - and is expected to open in late 2024, and the second agreement is slated for a mid-2025 opening in Boise, Idaho.

Behind the Utah single-unit agreement are husband and wife, Ramon and Garimirka Chaparro. Ramon brings a wealth of financial experience from decades of controlling finances and accounting for global corporations, including one of the world’s largest gold mining companies. Garimirka previously worked as a marketing professional within the banking and financial field before taking a job in human resources, while at the same time, she worked as an independent contractor arranging all-inclusive resort vacations for affinity groups. With a deep passion for travel and engaging with people, Garimirka jumped at the opportunity to bring Expedia Cruises to Bountiful. While a joint venture for the duo, Garimirka will focus on the day-to-day operations and Ramon will oversee the financial side of the business.

“Travel has always been one of our favorite things to do, and I wanted our next chapter to be something we were really passionate about, so joining Expedia Cruises was a no-brainer for us,” said Garimirka. “We’re first-time franchisees, and the Expedia Cruises corporate team is making the process as seamless as possible.”

The new Boise, Idaho location is owned by husband and wife, Mike and LesliAnn Hansen. Mike comes from a chemical engineering background and has more than 15 years of experience managing teams of engineers and technicians. LesliAnn has a master’s degree in mental health counseling and worked for several years at low-income elementary schools before leaving the workforce to focus on her family.

“LesliAnn and I never thought about opening our own business, but we were drawn to Expedia Cruises for their commitment to providing customized vacation experiences to every customer,” said Mike. “We love traveling and know the importance of having a travel agent with you every step of the way. There is a great need and demand for more travel agencies in Boise, so we’re excited to bring this travel brand to our community.”

SOURCE Expedia Group

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