Husband and wife team Dena and Warren were extremely happy with their £28k booking to Jamaica.
Having just completed agent training in Stansted with luxury hotel group Sandals, they were able to handpick the perfect family-friendly, all-inclusive Beaches resort for their clients.
Not only was the commission good on such a big booking, but the training had an added bonus – Sandals recommended them for a FAM (familiarisation) trip to Barbados.
“The Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc (BTMI) were organising a FAM trip at short notice to attend the annual Run Barbados marathon weekend and there were a couple of free places for agents who enjoy running,” says Warren.
“As we work from home with unlimited annual leave, and can take bookings on a laptop anywhere in the world, we jumped at the opportunity. The weekend consists of events from 3km to 42km, with walks to enable everyone to take part and appreciate the scenic views of the island’s picturesque beaches and lush green interior.”
Warren entered the half marathon and Dena the 7k.
“Hundreds of people took part, there was an amazing atmosphere, I would definitely recommend going in 2023 – races are currently scheduled for the weekend of December 9 and if you are good you might be able to beat the current record of 2:22:33!”
Warren bonded with other agents and tour operators during the race and the rest of the trip was spent visiting numerous hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions, including a trip to a rum distillery and a cruise on a catamaran.
“One of the guys I met owned a sports group travel company, specifically for schools, and mentioned that they can only arrange travel for the group of children. He asked if I would be interested in organising the parents’ travel arrangements. We are now signing a Partners in Travel contract.”
“It’s incredible to think that one booking led to a free trip to Barbados and a partnership that will hopefully result in many future bookings.
“Our advice is to take every opportunity to train and network. You never know what it will lead to,” says Warren who bought the franchise with Dena in summer 2020.
“I wanted to give up my work in the city for an investment bank and do something different. It’s a dream job. We love helping people have a great holiday and can’t wait to organise many more.”
