The continued easing of travel restrictions has encouraged brisk business and has allowed many more folk to resume their travels but of course brings with it new challenges and understandably lots of ‘what ifs?’ for all concerned.
Far be it for me to extol the virtues of a knowledgeable travel advisor but I hope my own recent holiday experience, along with the invaluable feedback received from travelling clients and my intensive studies of international entry requirements, help provide some reassurance and confidence that things are steadily improving.
With desired destinations such as the US, the Maldives, Canada, Sri Lanka and Mauritius starting to open up again, the winter and year ahead looks more promising than for some time.
In addition to the continued moving and rescheduling of existing arrangements, new bookings and enquiries, there has been a lot of exciting developments and plans being devised.
As my autumn newsletter hits your inboxes, Steve and I will be descending upon London to join esteemed associates at the industry’s eagerly anticipated 'Oscars' – The Travel Trade Gazette’s Awards – where I'm beyond flattered, a little overwhelmed, and mighty proud to have been nominated as one of eight nationwide finalists for Home-Based Travel Agent of the Year 2021.
It's been quite a journey.
I prepared by leaving the UK recently and heading to a villa in Lanzarote for a much-needed week in the sun upon which I will report in more detail soon.
It also provided some headspace to piece together the finer details for my forthcoming first 'live' client event at my new pop-up shop kindly hosted by The Patio at Gr8 Danes on Frinton’s bustling high street.
The launch of Holidaysplease on Connaught each Wednesday has been a been a breath of (very) fresh air and provided the opportunity to escape my home office and connect with the lovely local residents who, along with the local media and trade press, have been enormously supportive in welcoming the return of a quality travel agency to the North Essex coast. I even had an experience that left me totally speechless and an emotional wreck!
In further news, I have co-created a fabulous itinerary for November 2022, taking in highlights of Vietnam and Cambodia. In yet another 'first', I will get to escort my clients on their travels – it’s a tough job but someone has to do it! If you’ve always fancied a holiday with yours truly, now’s your chance!
Sincere thanks as always for the fantastic support and feedback via telephone and email along with comments and dialogue via my social media channels. It is a constant inspiration.
All the very best.
Jo x
