How Di Rhodes built a business she loves with Travel Counsellors

For Di Rhodes, joining Travel Counsellors was about building a business she could be proud of – and finding the right support, training, and franchise model to make it happen. The result is a thriving luxury travel business built on Di’s terms, backed by a community that supports both her business and her ambition.

Di’s values-first approach to travel

Travel has always been a part of Di’s life. “I have always wanted to work in travel and very nearly pursued that path instead of advertising and marketing in my late teens,” she says. After building a successful career for over 30 years, she knew the time was right to make that change. And when researching the options, she soon realised that Travel Counsellors was the perfect match.

“I wanted to create my own business while being supported by a strong, reputable franchise,” she explains. But it wasn’t just Travel Counsellors' reputation within the industry that attracted her. “I focus heavily on adding value, enhancing experiences and double-checking every detail so my customers feel completely confident and looked after.” It’s this level of personalised care and people-focused service that she saw in our franchise model – backed up by all the training and community support she needed to focus on what matters most: her customers. Trust and training from day one

Di already had trust on her side, with friends and family frequently asking her to plan their trips. "I realised I already had the experience, confidence, and customer trust," she explains. However, moving from planning personal trips to running a professional agency was a steep learning curve. The scale of systems, processes, and industry abbreviations was a challenge in those early months, but our best-in-class tools ensured Di overcame these hurdles quickly. "Travel Counsellors’ training, technology, and support network were invaluable during this period," she says. The resources helped her find her feet and build the confidence she needed to succeed in a new industry.

A franchise model that supports ambition

Di was clear from the start: “I wanted to do this wholeheartedly as a full-time business rather than a side hustle,” she says. “I was determined to build my business properly from day one.” The franchise model and ethos at Travel Counsellors “gave me the confidence to do exactly that,” Di explains. Rather than worrying about the logistics of getting off the ground, she could focus on shaping her brand. With our strong supplier relationships and product offerings, her business expanded naturally into luxury hotels, tailored itineraries, and personalised experiences.

“The strength of the network, combined with excellent tools, technology and supplier partnerships, allowed me to scale quickly while maintaining a highly personalised service,” Di adds.

Support that makes growth possible

Running the business meant juggling a lot, especially early on. “My role involves constant juggling; managing enquiries, bookings, networking, marketing, supplier relationships and customer communications,” she says. Her first year demanded long hours, but she knew it was worth it. “Investing that time early allowed me to build solid foundations and deliver the level of service my customers expect.”

Crucially, she didn't have to do it alone. From our advanced technology to a warm community of fellow business owners, Di wasn't building in isolation. With that support, she could stay focused on delivering exceptional service, knowing help and guidance was always only moments away.

A strong first year and a business she loves

In her first year, Di achieved close to one million pounds in turnover. She attributes this incredible success to focusing “completely on my customer, making sure at every stage I am offering the high level of service I have promised,” she says. Today, she’s selective and intentional. “I plan to continue building steadily and sustainably, with a clear focus on the luxury end of the market,” she says.

Most importantly, she enjoys the work. “I genuinely love my work,” Di says. “Every customer is different, and it is incredibly rewarding knowing I have delivered a memorable travel experience.”

Di’s advice for those considering the same path is simple: “Be prepared to invest time, energy and commitment in the first year and ensure you have financial stability in place while the business builds momentum. If you are passionate about travel, customer service, and building something of your own, and you are willing to put the work in, Travel Counsellors offers an exceptional platform to succeed.”

Discover if Travel Counsellors is right for you

Di’s story shows what’s possible when determination meets the right help, guidance and support. If you’re ready to take control of your career, join one our Discovery Days and find out how we can support you in building a future you love.