Other sectors dealing with complex issues and giving advice and guidance have recognised qualifications, says ArrangeMY Escape Worcester’s Jennifer Lynch
With the ongoing global conflicts and extreme weather patterns in the US, it’s only natural to anticipate those ‘what if’ enquiries from clients. I embrace this as a chance to showcase the vital role of booking with a travel expert, emphasising the confidence and reassurance we offer.
Just last week, we sprang into action for a distressed client after their flight from Florida was cancelled due to severe weather.
Without hesitation, we set about amending their travel arrangements. In that moment, our client found solace in our guidance, leaving them grateful for our intervention. This experience also served as a valuable lesson for my newer team members. It was essential for them to learn how to approach the unknown – understanding the protocols to follow with clients, providing accurate information, and collaborating swiftly with tour operators to find solutions.
That leads me to our role as travel professionals. What if there was no guidance for my team? What if we had advised our clients incorrectly? It begs the question as to whether our profession should be regulated. As travel professionals, dealing with complex issues on a daily basis and giving advice and guidance, we need to possess a recognised qualification. You would, without doubt, find it in other professions.
Cruise magic
As we come to the end of the summer season, I am starting to reflect and look ahead. How was summer trading for you? Traditionally, May to August aren’t our most prosperous, yet this year left me quite pleased. And what a whirlwind of excitement this year has been for cruising! It’s invigorating to witness an array of clients – from young families to honeymooners – discovering the magic it brings.
There’s nothing better than first-hand knowledge
TV shows like those hosted by Jane McDonald and Susan Calman have cast a spotlight on cruising, igniting interest. For those embarking on their cruise-selling journey, I’d recommend the numerous excellent training platforms, such as Clia, to guide you. Get yourself on a ship visit too, as they give you a good understanding for boarding procedures, ship layouts, stateroom sizes and the type of food your guests will experience. Better still, book a cruise for yourself as there’s nothing better than first-hand knowledge.
Inspirational evening
I recently attended the first Tui agent event at Birmingham airport, which showcased a wide variety of their product and knowledge. It was excellent. I even won four free nights with Margaritaville Hotels & Resorts. Result! The evening revealed Tui truly wants to collaborate with third-party agents and ignited a spark of inspiration in my team.
With summer 2026 being released, who’s excited? It seems so distant and yet so close. We have lots of customers who ask for travel further ahead, and I am already planning that far in advance. Crazy I know, but it’s always a good idea to forecast.
As you read this, I will be reflecting on summer 2024, devising plans for 2025 and looking ahead to 2026 while sipping on an espresso martini at the new Dreams Madeira Resort Spa & Marina!
Eyes opened to UK’s delights
This summer I decided to stay in the UK and focus on work, which gave me the rare opportunity to visit a few delights on my doorstep. The first was Hoar Cross Hall Spa Hotel in Burton upon Trent. This hidden gem was special; if you love a spa break, I’d definitely recommend a visit. It’s home to a new outdoor spa terrace, which is one of the largest in Europe!
My next stay was at West Midlands Safari Park in the Elephant Lodge. Wow! I had convinced myself safari is not my thing, but after a stay here, I might be wrong. It also got me thinking: are we missing an opportunity with UK breaks, given both these hotels were bustling with guests? Food for thought…