Absolutely! I’ve been working as a freelance travel planner for a few years now, and it’s been a rewarding journey. Initially, I focused on family travel because that's where my personal travel experience lay, but I’ve since expanded into adventure travel as well.
Starting out, I volunteered to plan trips for friends and family, which was instrumental in building my confidence and portfolio. Word-of-mouth was my best marketing tool at the beginning. I can’t stress enough how important it is to have those first few satisfied clients.
Regarding certifications, I found the Certified Travel Associate (CTA) course incredibly helpful. It not only expanded my knowledge base but also helped me understand the business and marketing side of things, which as a freelancer, is just as important as the planning aspect. The Travel Institute offers some excellent courses, and there are many online resources that focus on niche markets like eco-tourism or luxury travel.
On a day-to-day basis, my work varies massively. Some days I’m deep into researching new destinations or accommodations, and other days I'm on calls with clients, resolving itinerary changes due to unforeseen circumstances (which happens more than you’d think!). I also spend time keeping up with industry trends and participating in travel workshops and webinars to stay informed.
Something to keep in mind is the seasonality of travel. Certain times of year, especially around holidays and peak travel months, can be incredibly busy. It's crucial to manage your workload and set realistic boundaries.
If you're contemplating which niche to start with, think about where your personal travel interests lie. This could be a great way to find your specialty and build expertise in a particular type of vacation. What destinations or types of travel are you most passionate about? That could be a great angle to explore further!