Home is where the heart is: Sally’s return to Travel Counsellors

When Sally Strang reflects on her return to Travel Counsellors, her message is clear: “It feels so good to be back!” Nearly ten months on from rejoining as a Travel Counsellor, she describes the renewed sense of purpose our cutting-edge technology, unwavering support, and strong community have given her – and how they’ve empowered her to thrive.

Balancing family life with a career she loves

Sally first joined Travel Counsellors in 2011 after a successful career in hotel sales and marketing. With a young son and a husband frequently travelling as a commercial pilot, she was seeking a way to combine her passion for travel with being there for her family. “Travel Counsellors offered that perfect balance of flexibility, autonomy, and genuine support,” Sally says. Over eight years as a Travel Counsellor, she built a thriving business through referrals, specialising in bespoke, high-end holidays, all while being there for her son’s rugby, cricket, and football matches.

Recognising the foundations needed to truly flourish

When Sally left to explore the ultra-luxury sector, she quickly realised something was missing. “I noticed how much harder it was to manage bookings without the seamless technology Travel Counsellors provides,” she explains. Our in-house travel booking system, Phenix, had always allowed Sally to build tailored itineraries efficiently and creatively. Without it, administrative tasks began to outweigh the parts of the job she enjoyed most.

Beyond the tools, Sally also missed the Travel Counsellors community. “There is a warmth, care, and collaboration at Travel Counsellors,” she says. “It’s like being part of a family that genuinely wants you to succeed.”

Finding the courage to change direction

The catalyst to return arrived while watching the 2024 Travel Counsellors Conference highlights. The energy and togetherness she saw on screen reminded Sally exactly why she’d joined all those years ago. “I realised Travel Counsellors wasn’t just a business platform. It was home,” she says. When the chance to return arose, she didn’t hesitate.

Returning to a place that still felt like home

Now, almost a year later, Sally describes her return as fantastic. “The support and training were even better than before,” she says. “The onboarding process was first class.” With Phenix back at the heart of her business, she feels equipped to deliver exceptional service. “It’s so intuitive and powerful, allowing me to design completely bespoke itineraries while staying in control of every detail.”

The community has also renewed her passion. “Everyone genuinely cares, not just about clients but about each other’s success,” she says. The willingness to share advice, celebrate successes, and encourage one another has strengthened her connection to the network she once missed so much. “After ten months back, the sense of belonging and positivity is stronger than ever.”

Building a business shaped by confidence and support

Now, Sally is excited about the future of her business, driven by her passion for luxury travel, and supported by the tools and supplier relationships she now has access to. She also feels strongly about supporting others. “I would love to mentor newer Travel Counsellors,” she says. The support she’s experienced since returning, combined with her appreciation for the Travel Counsellors community, makes this feel like a natural next step.

For anyone considering joining Travel Counsellors, Sally’s advice is clear: “Do it! If you’re looking for freedom, flexibility, and the best technology and support in the business, there is nowhere like Travel Counsellors. You’ll be surrounded by people who genuinely care, not just about your business but about you.” Returning, she adds, has only reinforced her belief that sometimes the best move you can make is coming back to where you truly belong.

Find your new beginning with us

Sally’s story is a powerful reminder of how the right environment can transform your career. If her journey resonates with you, now could be the time to explore your own future with Travel Counsellors. Make 2026 the year you pursue the career you’ve been dreaming about. Join one of our upcoming Discovery Days and find out how we can help you build a business you’re proud of.