Andrea Phillips

For me, it’s really about getting to know you and what you actually want from your holiday. I’d rather have a proper conversation than just send you a list of hotels and leave you to work out which one is best. I’ll ask questions, listen to what you say, and probably a few things you hadn't thought about too. Whether you want somewhere with lots of history to explore, a beach where you can disappear into your Kindle, or just somewhere that makes life easy for a week or two, those little details can make a big difference. I’ll then do the searching and narrow things down to options that I think genuinely suit you. And if I don't think something is right, I'll tell you — there’s not much point booking a holiday that looks good on paper but isn't going to work for you. I also understand that going on holiday can sometimes mean leaving your dogs behind. As well as being a travel consultant, I run my own dog-sitting business, so for some of my clients I can help with both sides of the holiday — finding the right trip for them and making sure their dogs are well looked after while they're away.

What inspired you to be a travel consultant?

Obviously, a love of travel! But my route into travel probably wasn't the one most people would take. After years of sharing my home with dogs, I found myself without one for the first time in a very long while. I wasn't ready for another dog, but I missed having them around, so I started my dog sitting business. It wasn't long before I realised that almost every booking was because someone was going away on holiday. It got me thinking: if I was helping people enjoy their time away by caring for their dogs, why couldn't I help them plan the holiday too? I talked the idea through with family and close friends, and their encouragement gave me the confidence to take the next step. That's when I found Jamie Wake Travel, whose values felt very closely aligned with my own. What appealed to me was the opportunity to build my own business and identity, rather than having to fit into someone else's brand. Now, through Wanderlust & Wags, I can help people from the moment they start thinking about their holiday through to the point they return home — and, if they're also one of my dog-sitting clients, I can look after their dogs while they're away too. For me, it brings two things I really enjoy together: helping people make the most of their time away and making sure the dogs they leave behind are well cared for.

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

I love the opportunities it gives me and the fact that there is always someone willing to help. Everyone is so approachable and supportive, which makes a big difference when you're learning something new and building your own business. I also like knowing that I don't have to figure everything out on my own. There’s a real sense of support within the community, and that gives me the confidence to keep learning, developing my business and making the most of the opportunities that come along.

1. Romania 🇷🇴 Romania has definitely stolen a piece of my travel heart. It’s steeped in history, myths and legends, and there is so much to see and do — even if you decide to stay in Bucharest. I loved the culture, the people and the feeling that there was always something else to discover. 2. Iceland 🇮🇸 Iceland was another memorable trip, particularly because of its fascinating history and strong Viking connections. There is so much to explore, and being able to experience somewhere that feels so different without a particularly long flight makes it even more appealing. 3. Innsbruck 🇦🇹 Innsbruck is not the cheapest destination, but the scenery is absolutely beautiful and makes it well worth considering. I also love its location — you're not a million miles from other parts of Europe, so it can work really well as part of a wider trip rather than being somewhere you have to visit on its own.

I always recommend booking an airport lounge if the price is reasonable for the trip. It can make the start of your holiday much more relaxed, especially if you have an early flight or a long wait at the airport. I’d also suggest getting a cheap eSIM if your mobile plan doesn’t include roaming. Having data when you arrive makes things like maps, directions and keeping in touch much easier. And finally, take a power bank with you. Being able to charge your phone while you’re out and about is one of those little things you’re very glad you remembered!

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

What to Post on Social Media Over Bank Holiday Weekend

How to Upsell Airport Lounge Access and Transfers

Planning an Autumn Retreat Offer Now

Some of the Offers You can Book With Andrea

The Independent Travel Consultants