Meet Claire Bruce, aged 43, she loves photography, which will compliment her new travel business perfectly.
Claire’s hopes for the future are to become even more adventurous: to become a qualified scuba diver, as well as buying a boat, learning to sail, and following the horizon.
What was your first-holiday booking like and who was it for?
It was for my sister in law and brother in law. The booking was for a holiday in Malta in May 2021. She is a teacher, so she needed a trip away in the school holidays. I’ve booked a boutique hotel for 7 nights.
I was a bit nervous about my first booking but also very excited. It was a big compliment that she felt confident to book with me following my online training, now that I am a certified Personal Travel Consultant.
My personal travel coach, which you get when you join, really helped me to put my first booking through, it was so nice to have that reassurance there.
Why did you decide to start your own travel business?
I have been following The Travel Franchise for nearly 4 years, so it’s been quite a journey.
I worked in Barclays Bank for about 10 years and I’ve had my own business in child care for 13 years.
I’m planning to do the travel business part-time for now. I’ve still got the kids off from school to take care of, 4 kids plus 2 step kids keep me busy.
I have the full support of my partner, who also runs his own business, in the engineering sector.
What made you choose The Travel Franchise in the end?
I went to a number of the events The Travel Franchise hosted pre-COVID, and I was really impressed.
I am 40 years old and I was ready for change, so I took the next step and joined. Every day is like a school day, I’m learning so much.
I love meeting new people and I really wanted to make a difference in people’s lives. I knew joining would give me that opportunity.
Honestly, it feels like I’m turning my hobby into a career. There is a real sense of being part of a team, the support is amazing.
Despite being self-employed you feel part of something much BIGGER.
