From redundancy to reinvention: how Vicky found her perfect fit at Travel Counsellors

Having spent her entire career in travel, Vicky always knew the industry was where she belonged.

Starting as an apprentice with Going Places before moving to Thomas Cook, she developed a passion for helping customers create unforgettable holidays. She then spent 10 years with Kuoni, specialising in tailor-made and luxury travel and building long-standing relationships with her clients.

Unfortunately, like many travel professionals, Vicky's career took an unexpected turn during the pandemic.

" I was made redundant during Covid, but travel has always been such a huge part of who I am that I knew I wanted to stay in the industry and continue doing what I love," she says.

Finding the right home at Travel Counsellors

When considering her next step, Vicky wanted something that would allow her to continue delivering exceptional customer service while giving her greater flexibility and freedom.

"What really attracted me to Travel Counsellors was the ability to offer a truly personal service whilst also having the freedom to run my business in a way that works for me and my clients," she explains.

After years working in retail travel, the opportunity to focus entirely on client relationships and tailor-made holidays was particularly appealing.

"I loved the idea of being able to focus completely on building relationships and creating amazing holidays, without the pressures that can sometimes come with a traditional shop environment.

"The technology, support and supplier relationships behind the scenes also mean I can focus on creating the best possible experience for my customers."

Greater flexibility and freedom

One of the most significant changes Vicky has experienced since becoming a Travel Counsellor is the ability to work in a way that suits both her clients and her lifestyle.

"The flexibility has honestly been one of the biggest positives for me," she says. “I have two young children, and becoming self-employed has allowed me to say ‘yes’ more often to the things that matter. Being a Travel Counsellor means I can work around my clients whilst also having more control over my own time and work-life balance."

Unlike the fixed schedules and targets that often come with retail travel, she now has the freedom to shape her business around what works best for her customers.

"In retail travel, you're very tied to shop hours and targets, whereas now I have the freedom to run my business in a way that suits both me and my customers."

Relationships that last

For Vicky, the heart of her business is the relationships she builds with her clients.

Because she manages every stage of the customer journey, from the first enquiry through to their return home, she's been able to create deeper connections and stronger levels of trust.

"Clients know they can contact me directly and that I genuinely care about making their trips special, which I think makes a huge difference."

Those relationships continue to drive the success of her business.

"A lot of my business now comes from repeat customers and recommendations, which is incredibly rewarding."

Her advice for anyone considering the move

For former colleagues or other travel professionals considering a move into self-employment, Vicky understands why it can feel like a daunting prospect. However, she’s quick to point out that becoming a Travel Counsellor doesn't mean facing the challenge alone.

"Travel Counsellors offers so much support, training and guidance that you always feel part of a wider team."

For Vicky, taking the leap has been one of the best decisions she has made.

"It's given me the chance to build something for myself whilst still doing the job I love. If you're passionate about customer service and building relationships, it's such a rewarding path to take."

Could Travel Counsellors be right for you?

If you're considering your next step in travel, our Discovery Days are the perfect opportunity to find out what it's really like to run your own travel business with Travel Counsellors.

You'll hear from existing franchise owners, meet members of our support teams, and gain an honest insight into the flexibility, support and earning potential that comes with building a business of your own. Secure your place today.