FRONTLINE
JENNIFER LYNCH general manager, ArrangeMY Escape, Worcester
Since my last article I’ve been on holiday,
and what a trip it was! I finally convinced my other half to try a cruise, something he was adamant wasn’t for him. It was also my first sailing with Oceania Cruises and we chose a classic Mediterranean itinerary from Athens to Barcelona – the perfect introduction for a cruise sceptic. I’m happy to report he absolutely loved it. In fact, he’s now completely converted and already talking about our next sailing. Since we returned, he’s been enthusiastically recommending cruising to friends, family and even his clients. It’s like he’s taken on the role of an unofficial cruise ambassador! What’s refreshing is hearing him speak about the experience with such passion, from a totally different point of view. As travel professionals, we can get caught up in the whirlwind of information, offers and logistics. Sometimes we forget how magical travel can feel for someone seeing it with fresh eyes.
INTENSE TRAINING Over the past six to eight weeks, I’ve kept the team incredibly busy and with good reason. We’ve packed our schedule with an array of training opportunities: in-store evening supplier sessions, ship visits, virtual webinars, even a few special dinners. The world of travel is continually evolving; there’s always something new to learn, whether it’s
42 31 JULY 2025 AGENT
Training strengthens client relationships and deepens our crucial partnerships with suppliers
a route update, a hotel opening or an exciting new product launch. A huge thank you goes out to the
travel partners who’ve supported our recent training efforts: Fred Holidays, Regent Seven Seas, Kerzner, Premier, Grecotel, Railbookers, Sunvil, Tipto and Travelsphere. Your time and expertise are truly appreciated. Even with product we know
well, a refresher can spark renewed confidence and insight. It’s no coincidence that we’ve seen an uplift in bookings following these sessions – proof that investing in product knowledge drives results. Beyond obvious benefits, training strengthens our client relationships
and reinforces our position as a knowledgeable, trusted agency. It also deepens our partnerships with suppliers, which is crucial in this industry. Ongoing training is now a fundamental part of our strategy, and I’d highly recommend that any agency or homeworker integrate it into their annual plan.
US UNCERTAINTY Has anyone noticed a dip in US bookings? We’ve seen a marked slowdown and, truthfully, I’m not sure the US travel market ever fully bounced back post-pandemic. Some fluctuation is expected, but rising prices, political uncertainty, Trump’s return and general cost- of-living pressures across the pond are starting to show. Add in resort fees, various taxes and an increase in Esta charges and it begs the question: is the US unintentionally discouraging inbound tourism? Industry leaders have already acknowledged a decline in visitor numbers, but I believe the real impact will become clear over the next 12-18 months. In contrast, we’ve seen a rise in interest for Europe and Asia, particularly from families – a trend I suspect will carry through well into 2026. It’s a space to watch, and as
always, we’ll keep adapting to where the demand takes us.
Aston Merrygold at the AAAs
travelweekly.co.uk
A NIGHT AMONG THE STARS
This year’s AAAs were nothing short of spectacular. With the ever-charismatic Ashley Banjo hosting and the incredible Aston Merrygold providing entertainment, the evening was a true celebration of our industry. Magician Keith Barry had the entire room in awe as well – we could have watched him all night. The AAAs are always a highlight in my calendar, not just for the event itself but to reconnect with familiar faces. I was lucky enough to walk away with an amazing prize: a cruise, flights and pre-cruise hotel stay to Abu Dhabi, courtesy of Celestyal. Huge congratulations to all the winners – it was certainly an evening to remember!
Andrea Clare HelenJen i Sharon Colin Andrea Clare Helen
Jenniferfer diary diary Sharon Colin
Jennifer
fer
PICTURE: Steve Dunlop
Page 1 |
Page 2 |
Page 3 |
Page 4 |
Page 5 |
Page 6 |
Page 7 |
Page 8 |
Page 9 |
Page 10 |
Page 11 |
Page 12 |
Page 13 |
Page 14 |
Page 15 |
Page 16 |
Page 17 |
Page 18 |
Page 19 |
Page 20 |
Page 21 |
Page 22 |
Page 23 |
Page 24 |
Page 25 |
Page 26 |
Page 27 |
Page 28 |
Page 29 |
Page 30 |
Page 31 |
Page 32 |
Page 33 |
Page 34 |
Page 35 |
Page 36 |
Page 37 |
Page 38 |
Page 39 |
Page 40 |
Page 41 |
Page 42 |
Page 43 |
Page 44 |
Page 45 |
Page 46 |
Page 47 |
Page 48 |
Page 49 |
Page 50 |
Page 51 |
Page 52 |
Page 53 |
Page 54 |
Page 55 |
Page 56 |
Page 57 |
Page 58 |
Page 59 |
Page 60 |
Page 61 |
Page 62 |
Page 63 |
Page 64 |
Page 65 |
Page 66 |
Page 67 |
Page 68
