By Gilly Bachelor, Travel Expert
Back in 2023, one of the highlights of my career was being awarded Travel Agent of the Year, and the icing on the cake was that the award was presented to me by none other than Davina McCall. She was every bit as warm and genuine as you’d imagine, so you can see why I was delighted when Hays Travel later secured her as their first-ever brand ambassador.
For those who don’t know, while I own and run my own travel business, we work under the umbrella of the Hays Travel Independence Group. This model gives us the best of both worlds: We keep our own brand identity and independence, while benefiting from Hays’ unmatched commercial terms, powerful back-office support, and brilliant technology. In practice, this means we can give my clients all the care and flexibility of an independent agent, combined with the strength and resources of the UK’s largest independent travel agency.
So when I read Davina’s recent interview with Travel Weekly, I couldn’t have agreed more with her words:
“We need to help the British public understand that booking a holiday is easier with a travel agent, and you will find the hidden secrets with a travel agent.”
Davina shared how she was once scammed in Ibiza by booking a hotel online that didn’t exist — something we hear far too often from clients who first come to us after having had a bad experience. As she rightly pointed out:
Social media and online deals can sometimes feel like the holiday version of being “catfished” — glossy pictures that don’t always match reality.
That’s where travel agents step in. We don’t just book holidays; we curate experiences. Often, we’ve been to the destinations ourselves (or know a colleague who has!), so we can give first-hand insight and advice that you’ll never get from a search engine or a bot. And unlike an algorithm, we get to know you personally — your preferences, your quirks, and the little touches that make a holiday special.
Davina also said something that struck a chord with me:
the more our world leans on AI and automation, the more important that human connection becomes. Travel is deeply personal, and when you trust me with your holiday, you’re not just getting an itinerary — you’re getting reassurance, backup, and someone who has your back if things don’t go to plan.
You can listen to her whole interview with Travel Weekly here.
So yes, everything really is easier with a travel agent. Easier, safer, and infinitely more personal. And I’m proud to do what I do, supported by Hays, with the same passion today as the day I won that award.
Ready for a holiday that’s stress-free, personal, and exactly what you’re looking for? Let us take care of the details — with expert insight, trusted advice, and the reassurance of Hays Travel behind every booking. Get in touch today to start planning. Give us a call on 01902 288104, send us a message, or book an appointment!