Andrea Phillips

What inspired you to be a travel consultant?

I could say my love of travel or that I enjoy visiting new places, but that’s a bit clichéd and, let’s be honest, fairly obvious for a travel consultant! There wasn’t one big lightbulb moment. It was more a case of thinking, “This looks interesting… let’s give it a go!” I liked the idea of working for myself and having the flexibility to work around my other commitments, including my dog sitting. It seemed like a great opportunity to do something different, learn something new and build something of my own. I’m enjoying discovering more about the travel industry, finding out about different holidays and destinations, and helping people find trips that are right for them. So, no dramatic “I’ve dreamed of being a travel consultant since I was five” story — just a decision to give something new a try, and I’m really glad I did.

What do you love most about working as an independent travel consultant?

I think the support is probably the thing I value most. There’s no pressure to rush into things, and I like the fact that it’s recognised that everyone works at their own pace. I also like having the opportunity to build my own brand and develop the business in a way that works for me. It’s reassuring to know that there is support there when I need it, without feeling that I’m constantly being pushed to do more, more quickly. I’m much happier taking my time, learning as I go and doing things properly.

Romania really surprised me. We stayed in Bucharest and booked several trips around the country, but the city tour was probably the highlight. Learning about Romania’s recent history and seeing how much the country has changed made it a fascinating place to visit. We didn’t get to see as much as we would have liked, so I’d definitely like to go back and explore more. Iceland was one of my more recent trips and definitely somewhere I’d recommend. There’s a lot to see and do, and it’s very different from your typical holiday destination. One thing I would say, though, is don’t book a trip to Iceland thinking you will definitely see the Northern Lights! They’re a natural phenomenon, so there are no guarantees — although that shouldn’t stop you going. Nidri in Lefkas has just the right balance for me. You’ve got the beach, hotel pools, nightlife and plenty of opportunities to experience some of the local culture, all within a stone’s throw of most hotels. It’s a good option if you want a holiday where you can do as much or as little as you like without having to travel miles to find it.

A few, actually! If you can, I’d recommend booking an airport lounge. It can make the start of a holiday much more relaxing, particularly if you have a long wait or an early flight. Always remember a power bank (or two!), and check your mobile phone tariff before you travel. If it doesn’t offer good value for the country you’re visiting, an eSIM can be a much better option. And one tip I will never forget: don’t wear a nylon rucksack on your back if you’re going somewhere that’s above averagely warm. I learnt that one in Bucharest, where I spent a rather memorable time navigating the airport with a lovely wet patch on the back of my T-shirt.

Get in touch

Top 3 Destinations I Can't Stop Talking About

My Travel Personality in Three Words

Dream Trip on My Bucket List

Find out More about Andrea

What has been your favourite holiday you’ve ever taken?

Do you have a travel tip or hack that always makes a holiday smoother?

If you could recommend one hidden gem or must-visit place, where would it be?

What's your favourite travel snack, guilty-pleasure holiday read, or holiday cocktail?

Beach lounger, city explorer, or off-the-beaten-track adventurer - which best describes you?

If you weren't working in travel, what would you be doing instead?

Build Your Own Holiday Online with Andrea

Contact Me

Follow Wanderlust & Wags

End-of-Month Review: What August Taught You

End-of-Summer Client Check-In Email Template

How to Make Booking Forms Client-Friendly

Some of the Offers You can Book With Andrea

The Independent Travel Consultants