The Journal
Strategy & thoughts from a TA-turned-designer on websites, fees, and the business foundations for independent travel advisors.
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featured posts
featured posts
New Travel Advisor? Your Current Skills Are Worth More Than You Think
This one's for the travel advisor who came from somewhere else, a corporate role, a client-facing career, a decade of managing projects, people, or both, and is letting the word 'new' talk them out of charging what they're worth. You didn't leave your skills at the door when you switched industries. This post is a reminder of who TF you are.
How Travel Advisors Can Compete With and Embrace AI in 2026
AI is reshaping how people plan travel. I explore why travellers still need human advisors, what AI tools are helping and how to update your website to stand out in the AI era. Includes data, insights, and must-have website strategies for 2026.
Travel Planning Fees 101: How to Charge with Confidence (and Attract Clients Who Happily Pay It)
This guide breaks down why fees are non-negotiable, what the industry is charging right now, how to handle objections like a pro, and why your branding might be the reason clients aren't taking you seriously. Plus: real scripts you can use today and resources to finally get your business looking as professional as the service you provide.
10 Strategies for Independent Travel Advisors To Stand Out & Not Burn Out
After 12 years at Flight Centre and 4 years as an independent advisor before becoming a web designer, I've seen what works on both sides. This post breaks down ten essential strategies for travel professionals to build an online presence that’s sustainable.
How Travel Advisors Can Monetize Their Squarespace Website With Affiliate Marketing
Learn how travel advisors can monetize their websites by sharing authentic recommendations, building trust, and leveraging tools like Squarespace. From curating travel gear lists to setting up paywalls for exclusive content, you’ll find actionable tips to turn your website into a revenue generator.
How To Implement Travel Planning Fees That Feel Aligned & Sustain Your Business | A Case Study
Ever feel like you’re working around the clock for clients who don’t value your time? By 2019, Caitlin was drowning in client requests, endless revisions, and no-shows who promised to book but disappeared. Sound familiar? She knew something had to change before burnout got the best of her.
now in the birch & Bud Design Co. shop