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From Conversations to Commerce: The Birth of a Travel Agency
At the heart of every entrepreneurial journey lies a story, and for Leanne Miller and Tricia Rickerby, it began with a casual conversation at a hen party. Ten years ago, these two determined women, both with extensive backgrounds in the travel industry, decided to take a leap into entrepreneurship by establishing their travel agency in Cumbria.
The Travel Experience That Shaped Their Path
Leanne's career began at a tender age of 16, progressing through notable positions at Lunn Poly and Thomas Cook, while Tricia started her journey at WH Smith Travel, later gaining valuable experience with Virgin Atlantic and Co-op Travel. Their shared passion for travel and customer service paved the way for their eventual collaboration.
Overcoming Challenges: Navigating the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic posed tremendous challenges, forcing the duo to close their Carlisle shop, a heartbreaking decision after years of hard work. However, the pair persevered, transitioning their agency to adapt to new realities in the travel landscape. “We had to close our Carlisle shop to save Whitehaven and Workington,” Leanne recalls, stressing the emotional toll of such decisions.
Resilience and Recovery: A Stronger Agency
Their post-pandemic recovery has been nothing short of remarkable. With a current team of 27 staff, including apprentices, they thrive on strong community ties and embrace innovative marketing strategies, primarily through social media and local sponsorships. Their agency's Facebook page boasts more than 44,000 followers, proving that engaging with the community is essential to their success.
Travel Trends: Where Are People Going?
As travel begins to rebound, Leanne and Tricia have observed exciting trends. Destinations like Turkey, the Caribbean, and Japan are gaining popularity, driven by travelers seeking unique experiences. Most notably, the agency has seen a surge in multi-generational bookings and special occasion celebrations, reflecting newfound confidence among clients in planning memorable trips.
Your Next Trip Awaits
For Florida homeowners looking to escape or explore, the insights from Miller and Rickerby emphasize the importance of connecting with trusted travel professionals who can navigate the complexities of modern travel. As travel continues to evolve, supporting local agencies like theirs not only enhances the customer experience but also empowers local economies.
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