At A S Training, we believe that travel apprenticeships are about more than just learning from textbooks or online modules. They’re about real-world experiences that bring the destinations to life for future travel professionals. This philosophy was brought to life recently when Georgia, an apprentice at Holiday Lounge, embarked on a life-changing Fam trip to the beautiful region of Riviera Maya and Cancun, Mexico, courtesy of the Palladium Hotel Group.
The Power of First hand Travel Knowledge
Fam trips, or familiarization trips, are crucial for travel consultants, offering an invaluable opportunity to explore destinations, hotels, and attractions first hand. For Georgia, this was her first long-haul trip, and the experience has armed her with the insights needed to guide clients confidently. As she herself noted, “this was the most incredible opportunity and has given me the knowledge I need to make the perfect recommendations for my clients.”
From the minute she stepped onto her British Airways flight to Mexico, Georgia was set for a week of learning and exploration. Staying at prestigious resorts such as The Family Selection at Grand Palladium Kantenah Resort & Spa and the TRS Yucatan, she was able to see first hand the range of luxury accommodations available for both families and adults-only travellers. These experiences provide apprentices like Georgia with the first hand insight necessary to craft personalized travel itineraries that truly resonate with clients.
The Importance of On-the-Ground Learning
Georgia’s Fam trip wasn’t just about relaxation—it was packed with learning. She visited Xel-Ha, a natural waterpark with activities like snorkelling, zip-lining, and bike riding, and enjoyed site visits at all four Grand Palladium Riviera Maya hotels, where she gained first hand knowledge of the services, amenities, and experiences each one offers.
For Georgia, highlights included the Family Boss service at Grand Palladium Kantenah, a unique concept that offers VIP treatment for children, and the adult-only atmosphere at TRS Yucatan, which expertly balances relaxation with lively day and night activities. Armed with these experiences, Georgia is now able to advise clients based on what she has seen and enjoyed herself, helping to match their needs with the best possible options in Mexico.
How Fam Trips Elevate Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships like Georgia’s at A S Training go beyond traditional education by combining formal qualifications with immersive learning. Fam trips provide apprentices with direct experience of the destinations they’ll be selling, ensuring that they can speak to their clients with genuine knowledge and enthusiasm.
By visiting a variety of hotels, dining in local restaurants, and participating in excursions, Georgia now has a deep understanding of the Riviera Maya and Cancun areas—knowledge that can’t be fully conveyed in a brochure or online research. When a client asks about TRS Yucatan’s VIP Beach Club, or what activities their family can do in Costa Mujeres, Georgia has first hand experiences to share.
This type of learning allows apprentices to grow into travel experts. Not only can they offer detailed recommendations, but they can also empathize with their clients, having experienced the highs and lows of long-haul travel and resort life themselves.
A S Training’s Commitment to Enriching Apprenticeships
At A S Training, we are deeply invested in making our apprentices’ journeys as enriching as possible. Georgia’s experience in Mexico is just one example of how we support our apprentices in gaining the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to thrive in the travel industry.
We believe that first hand experience is invaluable, which is why we encourage opportunities like this Fam trip with Palladium Hotel Group. By stepping into the destinations they will eventually sell, apprentices can provide clients with the best possible advice and create bespoke itineraries tailored to individual preferences. This level of detail is what sets travel consultants apart from DIY travel planning and ensures customer satisfaction.
Why Adventure Tourism and Travel Education Matter
The travel industry is constantly evolving, and today’s clients are more interested than ever in adventure tourism and immersive experiences. Whether it’s family-friendly resorts with dedicated VIP services for children or adult-only retreats that offer peace and quiet alongside excitement, having first hand knowledge is critical for today’s travel consultants.
We are proud to offer the Level 3 Travel Consultant Apprenticeship, which not only covers the fundamentals of travel but also includes a strong focus on growing sectors like adventure and experiential tourism. This ensures that our apprentices are fully equipped to meet the demands of modern travellers who are increasingly seeking unique and memorable experiences.
Looking Forward: Georgia’s Future in Travel
Georgia’s experience is a shining example of what’s possible when passion, opportunity, and education come together. We are incredibly proud of her journey and the way she has embraced every opportunity to grow, not just as an apprentice, but as a travel expert. With her newfound knowledge of Mexico and the Palladium Hotel Group, she is now even better equipped to help clients create the holiday of their dreams.
For Georgia, and all our apprentices at A S Training, the sky is the limit. Whether it’s attending Fam trips, completing their qualifications, or connecting with industry professionals, our apprentices are continually being provided with opportunities to thrive.
Join Us: Invest in Your Future with A S Training
If you are passionate about travel and want to embark on an exciting career that offers both adventure and growth, A S Training is here to support you every step of the way. With real-world opportunities like Georgia’s Fam trip to Mexico, our apprenticeships are designed to provide the knowledge and experiences you need to succeed in today’s travel industry.
Conclusion: Shaping Tomorrow’s Travel Experts Georgia’s trip to Mexico is a perfect example of how A S Training blends formal qualifications with immersive, real-world learning experiences. As our apprentices continue to grow and explore, they bring back with them the knowledge and skills necessary to deliver exceptional service to their clients.
At A S Training, we believe in the transformative power of education and are committed to offering every apprentice the best possible opportunities to shine. If you’re ready to start your journey into the world of travel, reach out today—we’re excited to help you take the first step toward an incredible career!