Agent Diary: Success isn’t just about opening loads of shops or racking up awards

It’s easy to get caught up chasing fame and recognition, but don’t lose sight of why you started, says Arundel Travel’s Helen Parry

As I wrap up my first few weeks of teaching travel and tourism at Leeds City College, I’m still pinching myself. I knew I’d enjoy it – but I didn’t expect to love it this much. Stepping into the classroom has been a breath of fresh air, and I’m really thriving in my part-time role.

When I first thought about applying, I had to ask myself: why on earth would I do this? I already had – and still have – an amazing job running Arundel Travel, with our fabulous customers and a brilliant team.

After a bit of soul searching, it all made sense: success isn’t about staying in one lane. When Nick and I set up the agency, it was never just about making money – it was about sharing our passion for travel, helping people fall in love with the world, and bringing the joy back into holiday booking.

The bigger picture

Our five-year plan wasn’t just a list of business goals; it was about what we wanted to build for ourselves – personally and professionally. We set goals that would let us grow the business and have time for the things we love: family, the community and, of course, a bit of travel for ourselves.

Seven years later, we’ve ticked off loads of those goals. We’ve built a close-knit team that feels more like family, and the agency itself has become something of a community hub – you’re always welcome to pop in, and the kettle’s never far away. We made it through the pandemic and we’ve just opened The Lounge@Arundel Travel, offering bespoke long-haul holidays with a touch of luxury.

I’m giving us a well-deserved pat on the back here, but it’s important to remember that success isn’t just about opening loads of shops or racking up awards. Sometimes, the smaller, quieter businesses are overlooked in our industry. We may not be shouting from the rooftops, but we’re still here, working hard and doing what we love every day.

To my fellow small-business owners: it’s easy to get caught up chasing fame and recognition, but don’t lose sight of why you started. You don’t have to be the loudest to be successful. Focus on what’s important to you, your business and your customers. The real reward comes from building something that reflects your passion and making a positive impact along the way.

To the tour operators and industry leaders, I say: don’t forget the little guys. We’re just as passionate and loyal as the big players, and we put everything into what we do. If you champion us, we’ll champion you right back.

New perspective

So, why teaching? Simple: I love this industry, and I want to pass on what I’ve learnt to the next generation. I want to show them that success isn’t always what you see on the surface, and that there’s so much more to this world than meets the eye. Teaching has given me a new perspective, and it’s a perfect balance alongside my work at Arundel Travel.

Here’s to the next chapter – both in the classroom and back in the shop, doing what I love.

Conferences are my cup of tea

Conference season is a bit like a good cuppa: it warms you through and gives you a bit of a lift. I might not be out and about as much as I used to be, but I still get a real buzz from seeing friends and colleagues enjoying these events. Last week, I was lucky enough to head out to Fuerteventura for the Advantage Managed Service (AMS) conference, and it was lovely.

AMS was celebrating its 15th birthday, and we marked the occasion with one of its very first members – my dear friends from Destination Travel over in Silsden. It was a proud moment for all of us. I know it’s easy to feel too busy to step away from work for these events, but they’re so worth it.