At Tier One Travel, we’re proud to celebrate an incredible achievement by our own Karli MacKinnon, who was recently recognized on a global stage through Accor’s HERA program.
Karli was invited to Colombia as part of the exclusive HERA Challenge, an initiative designed to honour the top-performing travel advisors worldwide. Out of more than 36,000 advisors in the program, Karli earned her place among the top 30 globally, representing the Fairmont category. This recognition highlights not only her outstanding performance but also her deep industry expertise and commitment to her clients.
The hosted experience took place in Cartagena, where Karli stayed at two exceptional properties: Sofitel Legend Santa Clara Cartagena and Sofitel Barú Calablanca Beach Resort. The itinerary combined cultural experiences, networking opportunities, and a special award celebration recognizing the achievements of top advisors from around the world.
Reflecting on the experience, Karli shared:
“It was incredible! The Accor team did an exceptional job celebrating the top 30 advisors in the world out of 36,000 HERA advisors. I was there for the Fairmont category. I almost needed a second bag to bring home all the thoughtful gifts we received!”
With more than 20 years in the industry, Karli is known for delivering high-level corporate travel management with precision and care. She specializes in complex, time-sensitive itineraries and supports businesses where travel plays a critical role in operations. Her ability to remain calm under pressure and consistently deliver results has made her a trusted partner to her clients and a leader within the Tier One Travel team.
This recognition through Accor’s HERA program is a reflection of the dedication, expertise, and strong relationships Karli brings to her work every day. We’re thrilled to see her accomplishments celebrated on a global level and even more proud to have her as part of our team!
Q&A with Karli
What was your initial reaction when you found out you were selected for the HERA Challenge trip to Colombia?
I was honestly a bit in disbelief. When I first heard about the challenge, I thought it sounded so cool, but I didn’t think I’d have a chance. So to say I was shocked would be an understatement!
How did it feel to be recognized among the top advisors globally within the HERA program?
Incredibly humbling. It’s one thing to work hard every day, but to be acknowledged like that alongside such talented peers was really special.
What were your thoughts on the award ceremony and overall event organization?
The award ceremony and overall event organization were amazing. Everything felt extremely well thought out and elevated, but still fun and relaxed. You could tell a lot of care went into the experience, and a few times it brought tears to my eyes!
How would you describe the two Accor properties you experienced in Cartagena and Barú?
Sofitel Legend Santa Clara is one of those hotels that feels less like a hotel and more like stepping into a piece of history. It’s set inside a beautifully restored 17th-century former convent in the heart of Cartagena’s old city, so the architecture is incredible and feels really special from the moment you arrive.
Sofitel Barú Cartagena is one of those places that immediately feels like an escape, especially when we accessed it by boat. It’s set on a beautiful stretch of Caribbean coastline just outside Cartagena, so the whole experience is very beautiful, peaceful, and laid-back.
Together, these two properties offer the perfect trip combining a vibrant city stay with a relaxed beachfront escape.
How valuable are events like this for building relationships with hotel partners like Accor?
Events like this are so valuable for building relationships as it puts faces to names and really strengthen trust and connection, which makes collaboration so much more natural afterward.
What did it mean to you personally and professionally to be part of the Fairmont category winners?
Being part of the Fairmont category winners meant a lot personally and professionally. It felt like a recognition of consistency and care in what I do, and it made me feel really proud to represent that level.
What was your biggest takeaway from the HERA Challenge overall?
My biggest takeaway from the HERA Challenge is that hard work really does pay off. It feels amazing to be recognized among such an incredible group of advisors, and it makes me even more motivated. Experiences like this are such a great reminder of why I love what I do, and it makes me want to book even more Accor properties. The 2026 HEARA challenge has already begun, with the next HERA voyage taking place in 2027!
