Tales of a Travel Agent

This week, we’re joined by Bruce from Travel Gossip. We dive into how a tiny Facebook group became one of the most chaotic, powerful and downright addictive corners of the travel industry. From fam trip scandals to keyboard warriors, from award nights to who’s on the amber list… we get into it all.We play This or That, talk about what really happens behind the scenes of the trade, and Bruce faces Becky’s quiz based entirely on Travel Gossip’s own headlines. (Spoiler: it goes about as well as you’d expect.)If you’ve ever worked in travel, lurked in the group, or wondered why agents are always 3 seconds away from a meltdown – this is your episode. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This one lives up to the name. Jake and Becky kick off with a hotel horror that turns from sleepless night to full-blown x-rated chaos before diving into travel agent life — from refund nightmares and quoting tools to the hidden costs of subscriptions. Expect rants, revelations, and way too many jokes about nuts. Oh, and a wild uni trip story that proves Becky’s lived about nine lives. It’s explicit, unfiltered, and absolutely hilarious — welcome to Pure Filth. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎙️ This week on Tales of a Travel Agent…From dating disasters and stalker stories to birthday surprises and skiing dreams, Jake and Becky are back with chaos, confessions, and zero filter 😅They dive into the real truth about price parity, why travel agents are sick of working for pennies, and how the industry needs to change the way it sells travel 💸✈️Expect brutal honesty, industry tea, and the kind of conversations every travel agent has had but rarely says out loud…If you’ve ever wondered why clients still try to DIY their holidays, why price matching drives agents mad, or why travel agents deserve more credit than they get, this episode is for you 👀🎧 Listen now to Tales of a Travel Agent Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Jake and Becky dive into chaos, confessions, and a surprisingly musical moment from one very talented listener.From podcast jingles that nearly end friendships, to dating app dilemmas, boxing nerves, and prize draw drama at travel events, this episode is packed with unfiltered opinions and classic Tales of a Travel Agent energy.Expect discussions about:✈️ Listener-created podcast jingles (and the battle over who really runs the show)🥊 Becky’s terrifying boxing match training and fundraising plea💌 Dating apps as a travel agent marketing strategy (yes, really)🎁 The ethics of prize draws and luxury travel giveaways🎤 Meeting podcast listeners in real life🏋️‍♂️ High Rocks, cruises, and niche travel trends🧳 Travel events, airport refurbishments, and industry gossipAs always, it’s honest, chaotic, and very relatable for anyone working in travel — or anyone who’s ever wondered what really goes on behind the scenes.🎧 Tune in for laughs, rants, and the kind of conversations that definitely shouldn’t be edited out. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

January might be over, but not before Becky and Jake get everything off their chests. From why January feels approximately 5,000 days long, to reality TV near-misses, surprise trips to Madrid, and the unnecessary early return of Mini Eggs — nothing is safe.This episode covers a lot:Becky’s very random (and very boujee) last-minute trip to MadridJake’s questionable logic when applying for reality TV showsA full Facebook clear-out and why most people are doing social media wrongRyanair Tweets return (yes, again — and yes, they’re still brutal)Ridiculous client enquiries that made January even longerWhy finding travel clients isn’t about Instagram followers — and what actually worksIt’s ranty, honest, chaotic, and painfully relatable for anyone in travel… or anyone who survived January.🎧 Tales of a Travel Agent — the podcast by travel agents, for travel agents. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

🎙️ This week on Tales of a Travel Agent…Jake and Becky are deep in Peaks chaos and feeling everything that comes with it — the bookings, the burnout, the pressure, the incentives, and the stats obsession that comes with January in travel.From debating whether Peaks really matters anymore, to agents discounting holidays just to hit targets, the pair unpack the real impact of Peaks on homeworkers, retail agents and agency owners alike — and whether all those £5 vouchers are actually worth it.Along the way, they cover:✈️ The return of “traditional” Peaks and why this year feels different💸 Margin vs volume and why desperation discounting is dangerous🎁 Supplier incentives, reward trips and why fam trips aren’t always educational🧠 Burnout, sleep scores and why Jake is absolutely shattered🍰 A VERY civilised industry afternoon tea (with elite scones)🎭 A theatre trip that went… slightly off script📺 Travel TV chat including Accidental Tourist and shows that genuinely inspire travel🎶 A call-out for listeners to finally make them some jinglesIt’s honest, opinionated, funny and a little bit unhinged — exactly what January in travel feels like.If you’ve ever questioned Peaks pressure, incentives, or why everyone suddenly wants to talk about data… this one’s for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

t’s just Jake and Becky this week, no guests, no plan… and absolutely no filter.From January burnout, insane workloads and sleep deprivation, to the things travel agents actually sacrifice behind the scenes, this episode is a brutally honest look at life in the industry when peak season hits hard.Becky reflects on the opportunities she’s missed from years of being constantly on the move, Jake talks visibility, supplier relationships and why shouting loud actually matters, and somehow the conversation spirals into boxing matches, Hinge dating disasters, porn accidentally playing on ferries, nightmare transfers, and why agents end up telling clients to just get a taxi and send the receipt.If you’ve ever:Questioned your work-life balance in JanuaryBeen burned by transfers (again)Felt personally attacked by bed bank room descriptionsOr wondered why you still love this job despite all of it…This one will absolutely hit home.Unstructured, unhinged, and very relatable — welcome back to Tales of a Travel Agent. ✈️🎙️ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this deeply personal and powerful episode of Tales of a Travel Agent, Becky finally tells her story.From being bullied at school, to becoming a senior librarian nerd, to living and working in eight different countries, Becky opens up about a decade spent as a professional nanny for high-profile families, travelling the world, living a life most people never see… and constantly being asked “when are you going to get a real job?”She shares what it’s really like working 24/7, the emotional toll of childcare, why Covid changed everything, and how a breakup, burnout and a bold leap of faith led her into the travel industry full time. This is a raw, honest conversation about risk, passion, side hustles, imposter syndrome and finally backing yourself.If you’ve ever felt stuck, judged for your career choices, or scared to take the leap into something new – this episode is for you. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We’re kicking off the new year by heading to the coldest, wildest corners of the planet as we’re joined by Akvile, co-founder of the Expedition Cruise Network, to talk all things expedition cruising.From her unexpected start in the travel industry to spending a decade at Silversea, Akvile shares how expedition cruising went from a niche product to one of the fastest-growing sectors in travel — and why Antarctica remains the ultimate bucket-list destination.We chat about what really defines an expedition cruise, why ship size matters, and how travel agents can confidently sell high-value trips by matching clients to the right experience. There’s also a big focus on sustainability, responsible tourism, and why promoting lesser-known expedition destinations is more important than ever. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

From Antarctica to Mexico, Becky and Jake catch up on two very different trips — one involving icebergs, penguins, polar plunges and a life-changing expedition, the other featuring sunshine, butlers and all-inclusive luxury. Becky shares why Antarctica completely blew her mind (and mildly traumatised her), while Jake explains how Mexico has officially ruined normal holidays for him. Along the way, they talk about unexpected friendships formed on FAM trips, the moment you realise a travel connection might actually be a real-life friend, and why some trips change you forever. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s the most wonderful (and chaotic) time of the year, because Becky’s birthday and Christmas collide into one glorious celebration. In this very special episode, Jake turns the mic firmly onto Becky as they celebrate all things Bex – whether she likes it or not.Expect birthday messages, questionable gifts (including a Grow Your Own Boyfriend), a quiz designed to humble even the most confident travel pro, and plenty of laughs along the way. The pair dive into solo travel, dating disasters, free upgrades, airport pet peeves, industry events, and why themed parties are actually a gift to humanity.There’s festive chaos, travel chat, gentle roasting, and proof that when your birthday falls at Christmas, you’re absolutely entitled to make it everyone else’s problem.Pour yourself a drink, pop it on 1.5x if you’re Becky, and enjoy… Merry Bexmas! 🎁✈️🎙️ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

n this episode, Becky and Jake catch up on December life, the quiet weeks before peaks, and plans for their upcoming consumer travel show. They read a new listener email that sparks the idea of a “Becky vs Jake” itinerary challenge — and put out a call for any suppliers brave enough to host it.Becky talks through her recent trip to Egypt, including visiting the pyramids, exploring Cairo, and what it’s really like going inside the ancient tombs. Jake shares a few customer stories from the week, and the pair inevitably drift into their usual mix of travel chat, life updates, and light-hearted tangents.As always, listeners are invited to send in their stories, questions, and votes on who they'd rather travel with to talesofatravelagent@gmail.com. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

It’s the 1st of December, and Becky and Jake are getting festive—well, sort of. From the realities of being a travel agent during the quiet pre-Christmas lull to budgeting tips (and confessions of blowing it all), this episode dives into the highs and lows of the holiday season.Jake reveals why big ship cruising just isn’t for him, Becky shares a wild story from her days cliff jumping with strangers in Australia, and the pair swap restaurant disasters, book recommendations, and TV obsessions (spoiler: Below Deck and Race Across the World feature heavily).Plus, there’s another hilarious listener email, some strong opinions about TV volume settings, and a peek into Jake’s chaotic back-to-back event schedule.Grab a cuppa—or something stronger—and get ready for another unfiltered, laugh-out-loud episode of Tales of a Travel Agent. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

This week, Becky and Jake are back with another hilarious mix of travel tales, rants, and revelations! Becky kicks things off with her latest book obsession before the pair dive into flight frustrations — from kids without headphones to people yanking on the seat in front. Jake shares a side-splitting story about accidentally smuggling a tin of beans through airport security, and Becky reveals how she managed to lose not one but two pairs of Gucci sunglasses (and an AirPod!) on her travels.The duo also debate missing row 13s, Ryanair’s sassiest social post yet, and give their unfiltered advice to a new travel agent listener — with, as always, questionable helpfulness. Expect laughs, chaos, and a dose of brutally honest travel chat.✈️ Highlights include:Jake’s “bean gate” airport disasterBecky’s lost designer sunglasses (again!)The truth about missing row 13s on planes and shipsRyanair’s savage tattoo comebackReal talk on growing up, working hard, and making it in travel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Becky and Jake are back with another laugh-out-loud episode of The Becky Show, diving headfirst into the realities of expat life and what it’s really like living abroad. From dodgy drama teachers to expat horror stories, the duo share personal tales, play an airport code guessing game, and swap mind-bending travel trivia.Expect chaos, candid confessions, and some truly wild stories—from hostel life in Cuba to conversations with locals in Vietnam. Plus, find out which city has more canals than Venice and which country has no mosquitoes (you’ll never guess!).If you’ve ever wondered what travel agents really talk about when they’re off-duty, this is your backstage pass. 🌍✈️ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this week’s episode of Tales of a Travel Agent, Jake and Becky are joined by the incredible Claire Brighton, Head of the Association of Touring and Adventure Suppliers (ATAS). Known as the “Queen of Adventure Travel,” Claire shares her fascinating journey from failing her A-levels to leading one of travel’s most exciting sectors.The trio dive into everything from the growth of touring and adventure holidays to why travel agents shouldn’t be afraid of selling them. Expect laughs, insider industry chat, and some brilliantly funny stories – including Claire’s unforgettable “slip of the tongue” moment on a trip to Morocco and a shocking balcony incident.They also chat about: ✨ Why touring isn’t just for coach holidays 🌍 Family adventures vs. kids’ clubs 💡 How TV shows like Race Across the World inspire travel trends 🎥 The importance of real, unpolished content in travel marketingAnd, of course, Becky puts Claire through her paces with a tricky travel quiz — but who comes out on top? Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this hilariously chaotic episode, Becky and Jake kick off with some unexpected compliments, supplier shoutouts, and a chat about why Jetset deserves more love. The duo debate airport-themed travel shops (bad idea), the future of group travel, and why travel agents should be thinking like influencers.Jake shares his upcoming BBC radio appearance to talk work uniforms, while Becky recounts a terrifying dingo encounter in the Australian outback that left her frozen in fear. There’s also talk of WhatsApp marketing, lounge perks, and — somehow — Jane Goodall, Netflix, and venomous fish.It’s another wild ride full of travel talk, industry insights, and Becky’s unbelievable life stories. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this laugh-out-loud episode, Jake and Becky dive into everything from The Devil Wears Prada 2 to near-death “fun,” ethical safaris, and why conservation isn’t always what it seems. Becky shares her latest book obsession, her run-in with Tanzanian police (and a suspicious roll of cash), and a terrifying standoff with a London fox. Meanwhile, Jake admits to a newfound fear of flying and rants about greenwashing in travel. Expect chaotic tangents, travel confessions, and a lot of unsolicited life advice along the way.Send your stories to talesofatravelagent@gmail.com and don’t forget to vote in the great Jake vs Becky debate! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A listener email sparks a big conversation about how to choose the right host agency — from spotting MLM-style traps to finding genuine support and community. Plus, the rivalry continues with an all-important poll: Who would you rather travel with — Becky or Jake?It’s a fun, unfiltered, and laugh-out-loud look at travel life, industry truths, and total nonsense in between. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode, Becky returns from the Expedition Cruise Network Conference with wild stories — including being dragged on stage for The Price is Right to win a £22k Antarctic cruise cabin! Jake and Becky dive into the collapse of Classic Collection and share what really happened while Jake was in Marbella with the team when the news broke.The pair also tackle the upcoming Entry/Exit System chaos, talk about the end of print magazines in the travel trade, and explore fascinating ocean facts — from 16,000-year-old sea creatures to Becky’s insane night dive in Zanzibar (involving sardines… lots of them).As always, expect laughs, chaos, and unfiltered chat from your favourite travel industry duo.✉️ Have a story to share? Email: talesofatravelagent@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.