After more than 30 years in the travel industry, I’ve been fortunate enough to receive some wonderful recognition throughout my career.
Even so, 2026 is already shaping up to be a year I’ll always remember.
We’re only halfway through the year, yet I’ve already been shortlisted for three national awards and was honoured earlier this year to be named Riviera Travel’s Top Overall Agent for the UK & Ireland.
Whilst recognition is never the reason I do what I do, I would be lying if I said these moments don’t mean a lot. More than anything, they make me stop and reflect on just how fortunate I am to have such amazing customers, colleagues, partners and supporters around me.
Three National Award Shortlists
The first piece of news that left me completely gobsmacked was being shortlisted for Leisure Agent of the Year at the Travel Weekly Agent Achievement Awards.
Having won the award in 2023, I never imagined I’d find myself back amongst the finalists again. To be one of only six shortlisted agents from across the UK and Ireland is a huge honour.
I was then thrilled to learn that I’d also been shortlisted for Home-Based Travel Agent of the Year at the TTG Travel Industry Awards 2026, where I’m one of only eight finalists nationwide.
Most recently came the news that Wendy Haines Travel has been shortlisted in the Established Business of the Year category at the Great British Entrepreneur Awards.
Each of these awards recognises something slightly different, but together they represent the values I’ve always tried to build my business around: trust, personal service, expertise and genuinely caring about every customer who chooses to book with me.
A Reflection of the People Around Me
Whilst my name appears on the shortlist announcements, these achievements are really shared with many people.
My customers who trust me with their holidays.
My fantastic team, Claire, Jane and Amanda, who help deliver the service we’re known for.
Our travel partners who support the business.
And of course the incredible Wendy’s Wanderers community, which continues to grow and create unforgettable travel experiences together.
Thank You
With several award ceremonies still to come before the end of 2026, I have no idea what the rest of the year holds.
What I do know is that I already feel incredibly fortunate.
Thank you for being part of the journey.