Freedom, Flexibility and Fulfillment: The Triple Win of Independent Travel Entrepreneurship

There’s a reason so many travel professionals are choosing to go independent, and it’s not just about being their own boss. It’s about creating a life that blends purpose and passion. It’s about building a business that reflects who they are, what they value, and the journeys they love to design, all while being part of a community that has their back every step of the way.

For advisors across the Envoyage network, independence doesn’t mean isolation. It means having access to industry-leading tools, technology, and trusted support to design a business as unique as their clients’ itineraries. With innovative systems like HOME, a centralized platform for managing daily operations, and iReach, an all-in-one marketing suite, Envoyage provides the foundation advisors need to grow confidently. Paired with itinerary tools like Travefy, a support team that truly understands their business, and opportunities to connect through Envoyage events, it’s everything advisors need to thrive independently, while staying part of something bigger.

BUILDING A BUSINESS THAT REFLECTS YOU

For Julie Smigadis of Travel Our World, the decision to become an independent advisor marked a turning point. “Becoming an

Julie Smigadis of Travel Our World

independent advisor has been the most rewarding chapter of my career. It’s given me the freedom to build something that truly reflects who I am, blending my love for travel, storytelling, and creating meaningful experiences for my clients, all while having the strength, support, and global reach of Envoyage behind me. It’s the perfect balance of entrepreneurship, lifestyle, connection, and a constant reminder of why I love what I do.”

Julie’s story captures what makes independence so powerful: the freedom to lead with authenticity, shape your business around your passions, and define success on your own terms.

DESIGNING A LIFESTYLE THAT FITS

For many advisors, independence also unlocks something less tangible, the ability to live life with intention. “Managing my own business has been a revolutionary change to my lifestyle over the past five years,” shares Stephen Brunetta, who thrives on balance. “It’s given me the freedom to structure my days balancing travel consulting, personal fitness, and quality time with family and friends. Working with a global brand has afforded me opportunities to travel to all corners of the world while always staying connected with my loyal clients who share the same sense of adventure.”

Stephen’s journey is a reminder that entrepreneurship isn’t just about financial success; it’s about designing a life that aligns with your values. Flexibility and fulfillment aren’t perks; they’re the foundation of a sustainable career in travel.

Stephen Brunetta in Edinburgh

 

LIVING, LEARNING & LEADING BY EXAMPLE

For Mariya Khlupin of Bluebird Travel, independence means embracing creativity and family life in equal measure. “Being an independent travel advisor gives me the freedom to build a business that reflects who I am, creative, curious, and always exploring. With Bluebird Travel, I can create my own schedule, travel with my kids, and show them the world, while my clients benefit from the firsthand experiences I bring to their trip planning. And being part of an amazing company like Envoyage helps me stay inspired, grow my business, and always move in the right direction. It’s the perfect balance of family, travel, creativity, and freedom.”

Her story perfectly captures the “triple win” of independence, the ability to build a business, live a balanced life, and find fulfillment in doing meaningful work.

Mariya Khlupin of Bluebird Travel

EMPOWERING INDEPENDENCE, TOGETHER

At its heart, Envoyage is about enabling travel entrepreneurs to thrive. Through innovative systems, marketing support, business coaching, and a global community of like-minded professionals, advisors gain both the confidence and connection to reach new heights. Because independence doesn’t mean going it alone, it means having the freedom to create your own path, with a network that’s always with you, for every journey.






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