By Geoff Percival,Stephen Aherne

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Holiday Experts, the dedicated homeworking division of Best4Travel, is proud to feature Sonia Gorry in the latest instalment of its “Focus on Holiday Experts” series with ITTN. Celebrating two decades in the Irish travel industry, Sonia’s story showcases the professionalism, resilience, and client-first ethos that define Holiday Experts.

How did you start in the Irish Travel Industry?

Having completed a one-year course in Travel and Tourism in 2005, I saw an advertisement for a junior position at the Navan branch of Budget Travel. I decided to take the bull by the horns, as they say, and applied for the interview. Two hours later, the job was mine. I couldn’t have been more thrilled, as Budget Travel was one of Ireland’s leading travel agencies at the time. I loved every minute of my time there and was genuinely passionate about my job.

What path did you take after your time in Budget Travel?

I worked at Budget Travel for four years until, unfortunately, the recession hit, and the company went into liquidation. Continuing within the travel sector—albeit in a different capacity—I secured a position at Blue Insurance. I spent three years in the call centre department, selling travel insurance. However, over time, I realized I was no longer enjoying the role and felt a strong desire to return to the travel trade.

How did you come to meet Jeff Collins and the Best4Travel Team?

I reached out to a former colleague, who introduced me to Jeff. We met for coffee and a chat, during which he invited me to join his Best4Travel team. I didn’t hesitate—I was excited to return to what I loved most: selling holidays.

In 2013, I opened the Scotch Hall branch for Best4Travel, where I worked for two years. I then transferred to the Navan branch, continuing my role for another eight years. During this time, I became a mother of three.

How did you transition from Best4Travel to being part of the Holiday Expert Homeworking Team?

In 2023, after the birth of my third child, I met with Jeff to explain that, as a busy mother of three, returning to a traditional office setting was no longer feasible due to childcare responsibilities. He offered me the opportunity to join the Holiday Experts team as a home-based consultant—an offer I gratefully accepted.

What are the benefits of being part of the Holiday Experts Team?

Being part of the Holiday Experts team allows me the flexibility to be present for my children while continuing to do what I love, all from the comfort of my home and during hours that suit my family life. The Holiday Experts team is also incredibly supportive, always available by email or phone when assistance is needed.

What advice would you give to others starting out as a Holiday Expert?

Working from home requires dedication and consistent effort to build a strong client base. Fortunately, many of my previous clients from the shop and kiosk environments continued to support me on my homeworking journey. Social media also played a significant role in my growth. I launched my Holiday Experts Facebook forum and actively promoted it within my local community. As a result, I’ve developed a substantial following, for which I’m truly grateful. I’m now busier than ever.

“If you are interested in learning more about becoming a Holiday Expert, please contact Ciara Foley at [email protected]”