Fresh off her win (and still reeling from the shock of it!) in the prestigious Most Outstanding Travel Consultant Leisure category at the National Travel Industry Awards (NTIA), Back Track Adventures star Emma Smith spills on what it’s like to be recognised among the best in the biz. Karryon caught up with Emma while she was still buzzing from the big win (and maybe a jet-lagged Tokyo sunrise) to chat passion, perseverance and the power of getting gloriously lost.
Congratulations on the win… what does this award mean to you personally and professionally?
It means everything to me to win this award. I was a finalist last year so to come away with the win this year against such strong competition was a big shock!
It is such an honour to be acknowledged at this level for all the hard work and dedication I put into my role as a consultant on a daily basis.
To what do you attribute your success?
I think the fact that I simply love what I do. Each day is different and there is always a new destination or supplier to learn about, which keeps me engaged and eager to broaden my knowledge.
And of course my colleagues at Back Track Adventures – they are like family to me who support and nurture me, so they have played a big role in my success.
Any advice for anyone looking to become a travel consultant in the adventure travel space?
Do it! Don’t get me wrong, there will be days that will be challenging and stressful, but the good days will outweigh the bad. You will make lifelong friends with clients and industry colleagues and be part of an amazing travel community.
The feeling of excitement when you plan someone’s dream trip and the gratitude they have for you when they return home is what drives me. There is no better feeling!
What are you most excited about that’s coming up for travel or your sector?
Well, I’m currently in a hotel room in Tokyo as I’m on an Intrepid trip! I hope to have many more amazing travel experiences both with my family and at work.
What does the future look like for you and your business?
Busy! As I continue to grow my knowledge and expertise, it gives my existing clients the confidence to refer their friends and family, which I so greatly appreciate.
What do you love most about your job and the travel industry?
It has to be the people and of course the travel opportunities. I think the travel industry is the most resilient bunch of people who support and encourage each other.
We’ve been through some really tough times but we stick together and here we are on the other side. That’s something we should all be so proud of.
Care to share a fun travel tip that you swear by when exploring new places?
Get lost, it will lead you on a great adventure!
Read our wrap of NTIA 2024 including all the winners here.
