A zest for travel

With over 40 years of experience as a travel agent, Sandra Murray of Sandy's Travel Escapes, reminds us why this is "the best industry to be in" and how celebs are influencing travel trends.

“Having started in travel way back in 1976 at Thomson Holidays' new regional office in Leeds, I've noticed a lot of change in the industry, both good and bad. Although the internet has had a big impact on bookings, I still think many people, especially families, feel safer booking with a travel agent. And certainly travel agents come into their own when a disaster happens – we are contactable and quick to find a solution, and that is something that the internet will never be able to do."

The celeb appeal

"Rail holidays and cruising have become more popular thanks to TV programmes

such as Chris Tarrant: Extreme Railways, Michael Portillo's series Great

Railway Journeys and

Simon Reeve's various travel documentaries. These programmes make people want to do more than just lay on a beach or sit by the pool. It also benefits agents as people booking experiential travel trips such as these tend to entrust in a travel agent rather then booking online."

Travel with a consciences

"I now work from home but my love of travelling has only grown stronger. I often travel and always try and meet local people and eat where they eat as you can't beat that authenticity. I am also passionate about animal welfare and warn customers against going to animal attractions and having photos taken with captive animals, and I discourage elephant riding as I believe it is unethical.

"To further support my animal welfare cause, I organise the Yorkshire Travel Ball – now in its 22nd year – and we raise money for animal welfare charities.

"As well as being a great event for industry folk, we've helped Born Free, Elephant and Dog sanctuary in India, Soi Dog Foundation, Hull Greyhound Dogs, Donkey Sanctuary and Greek Cat Rescue – I even acquired my oneeyed cat Tiger from Crete and he now meows with a Yorkshire accent!

"I still believe that travel is the best industry to be in. Doing what you like is freedom – liking what you do is happiness, and that's why I'm still working in travel today."

Rail holidays and cruising have become really

popular