Half a century ago Fidel Castro took over power in Cuba, Alaska became a state of the union, the Canadian government scrapped the Avro Arrow fighter jet, rocker Bryan Adams was born, and one of Delta’s longest running businesses began making travel plans for its customers.

It was 1959 when Ladner and Delta Travel first opened its doors with Cycil and Mary McGuire as owners.

In 1975 Eleanor Graham joined as part owner and in 1999 Connie Lucas bought the operation.

Lucas, semi-retired and still with the business, handed over reins to Chris Scurr in 2008.

Today, the agency remains a thriving modern business that specialises in cruises, group travel and all inclusive holidays.

Located in the centre of Ladner Village, it is part of a major travel agency network. As a result, customers get competitive prices and the value of knowledgeable service, plus the assurance of the provincial government’s Business Practice and Consumer Protection Authority which backs up customers’ hard-earned travel dollars.

Keeping up with the times, Ladner and Delta Travel also offers customers the opportunity to fly “green” by asking them to provide a small donation to offset the carbon output on flights.

The funds are sent to the Corporation of Delta which uses the money for Delta’s tree planting program to help improve local air quality.

Another innovative added service for clients is a special gift card which awards points towards free pet stays in local kennels and free pet check ups at local vets.

“We want you back again and again, so we offer you the best possible vacation experience,” says Scurr, adding the business is looking forward to serving customers another 50 years of service.