Today we’d like to introduce you to Rachel Lackey.
Hi Rachel, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
I entered the travel industry in 2013, almost by chance. A former co-worker recruited me to join his agency, and I discovered how much I loved helping people plan memorable trips. After gaining a few years experience, I launched my own agency, Vacations Booked. What started as a one woman show has now grown into a strong team of 10 advisors across the Southeast. Over the years, we have built a reputation for creating seamless, personalized experiences that allow our clients to focus on what matters most, enjoying their time away.
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
There have definitely been bumps along the way, with 2020 being the toughest season my business has ever experienced. Like everyone in the travel industry, the pandemic brought business to a standstill. But it also gave me the opportunity to refine our systems and rethink how we support our clients. Out of that challenge came stronger processes, better tools, and a renewed focus on client care, all of which make the travel experience smoother today.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Vacations Booked?
At Vacations Booked, we specialize in creating customized itineraries for honeymooners, couples celebrating milestones, families, and multi generational groups. What we are known for is the personal touch. We get to know our clients deeply, from what excites them to what frustrates them while traveling, so we can design trips that feel effortless and perfectly tailored. We also give every client access to our mobile app, which keeps their itinerary and all travel documents right at their fingertips. Plus, they have a direct line to us as well as to our trusted on the ground partners. That means they are never left to figure it out on their own. Support is always just a message or call away.
I am most proud of the seamless experience we have built for our clients. When they return from vacation and tell us how easy, stress free, and enjoyable everything was from start to finish, that is the best compliment we can receive. It means our behind the scenes systems, app, and hands on support are doing their job. We care about each client’s trip as if it were our own, and hearing their gratitude makes all the effort worthwhile.
What sets us apart is the combination of personalization, technology, and heart. Every itinerary is tailored specifically to each traveler, our app ensures clients are always organized and in the know, and our direct support gives them peace of mind in destination. But most importantly, we truly care. We treat every trip as if we were planning it for ourselves or our families. That level of genuine care, paired with our professional systems, is what keeps clients coming back again and again.
Are there any apps, books, podcasts, blogs or other resources you think our readers should check out?
Travel itself is my biggest teacher. I make it a priority to explore new destinations several times a year so I can bring firsthand insights back to clients. I also stay on top of industry updates through training and resources to ensure there are no surprises when clients travel. Outside of travel, I enjoy listening to business and leadership podcasts and reading books on growth and mindset. They keep me inspired and help me show up as the best version of myself for my team and my clients.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.vacationsbooked.com
- Instagram: @vacationsbooked
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/vacationsbooked
