What Being a New Travel Agent Really Looks Like (It’s Not Always Palm Trees)

When people think of travel agents, they imagine sun-soaked beaches, complimentary cruises, and Instagram-perfect trips. And don’t get me wrong — that dream is very real and very possible. But when you’re just starting out? The journey is a lot more complicated.

Let’s talk about what it really feels like to build something from the ground up — with no safety net, no consistent paycheck, and sometimes, no response to the emails you poured your heart into.

The Dream Was Planted…

For me, it started with a love of movement — of imagining myself in a different place, in a different life, free to explore. Free to breathe. I didn’t want to just visit the world, I wanted to guide others through it too. That’s when I found the courage to become a travel agent. I got certified, joined a host agency, started watching every webinar I could, and earned destination certifications that made my heart race with hope.

I believed I was on the path to something beautiful. I still do.

…But The Hustle is Real

What nobody tells you is how lonely it can be at first. You’re reaching out to hotels and tour companies, pitching yourself with shaky confidence. You’re watching others with bigger followings get brand deals or FAM trip invites while you’re still waiting for your first sale. You’re trying to be your own marketing team, graphic designer, and social media manager — all while working other jobs, showing up for life, and trying not to burn out.

You feel like you’re constantly pouring out — time, effort, energy — and praying that it blooms into something more than a dream.

The Hard Days Are Real Too

There were nights I went to bed hungry, not because I wasn’t trying, but because rent was due and groceries had to wait. Days when I questioned if I was “too late,” if I should’ve started sooner, if I was enough. Watching others live the life I dream about — the trips, the bookings, the success — sometimes hurt more than I’d like to admit.

But I never gave up. I couldn’t.

Because this is my path — my own personal uncharted pathway. The path God laid before me.

The Hope That Keeps Me Going

I’ve learned that it’s okay to grow slowly. That patience isn’t a weakness, it’s a superpower. That the right people will find you not because you’re flashy, but because you’re real. I don’t just book trips — I create bold journeys for those ready to reconnect with wonder.

I’ve started to share more online. Built resources. Launched digital products. Dreamt of hosting groups, leading retreats, and building a legacy of mindful, heart-led travel. Even on my hardest days, I keep one truth close: my story isn’t done yet.

If You’re a Dreamer Too…

I see you. If you’re in the messy middle — unsure, exhausted, excited, hopeful — you’re not alone. This life isn’t easy, but it’s yours to build. One city, one conversation, one step at a time.

And if you’re ready to book that trip that changes everything, or just want to talk about the possibilities… I’m here.

Always.

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Written with love by Ashleigh Simmone

Owner | Uncharted Pathways

Helping you build your bold life, one unforgettable journey at a time.