Travel Den: building a dream travel agency

Founded by Gilli Knight and operating under our managed services model, Travel Den has not only embraced the travel industry but also exceeded expectations by smashing its targets. We caught up with Gilli, the founder and owner, who shared her journey of launching her own travel agency and how our Managed Service model has played a key role in driving its growth.

Can you tell us about your background and what inspired you to start your own travel business?

"I’ve always had a love for travel, but I wanted to take a slightly different path than most. While my friends were off backpacking through Asia, I thought, 'Why not explore Africa instead?' That decision sparked a passion for travel that has never really left me.

Before diving into the travel world, I had a successful career in financial services. But when I became a mum, I gave up my career to focus on family life. Once the kids were off to school, I spotted a Facebook ad about becoming a travel agent and something just clicked. I absolutely loved it!

After gaining experience and trying out a few roles in the industry, I realised it was time to take the leap and start my own travel business. And here I am, doing what I love and helping others see the world in their own unique way! I made the decision to help other travel agents to grow and build their business without the constraints of large fees and unfair commission splits. I wanted to offer agents more flexibility, and the right level of reward for all their hard work! Empowering them without limitations as to what we can create for our clients"

How has our managed services solution helped you overcome some of the operational challenges of running a travel business from home?

"Being part of Advantage Managed Services has honestly been a game-changer. It’s helped me set up new supplier contracts and create completely bespoke trips for my customers, I can really live up to my ‘anything is possible’ motto!

What I love most is how supported I feel. You’re not just another number, everyone at Advantage genuinely cares. I’ve been able to be open about challenges, and Gemma, my Business Development Manager, has listened and helped. Attending the Advantage Managed Services Conference last year was a real eye-opener too. Especially the flagship conference in May; there are so many people, yet every voice is heard.

I’m also a big fan of the systems used, and having help with cash flow has taken a lot of pressure off. It’s made running a travel business from home feel a lot less lonely and a lot more doable for me."

What is your proudest or most rewarding moment so far since starting your travel business?

"There have honestly been so many proud moments, it’s hard to pick just one! Hitting a million turnover within the first seven months was a huge milestone. Smashing that target felt incredible and really validated all the hard work that went into building the business.

But beyond the numbers, one of the most rewarding things has been seeing my team of agents grow, watching them truly understand the value of what we do and the impact we can have. I’m proud to have created a proposition for agents that is unique in the industry, offering a space where those who join me feel trusted and empowered.

And being shortlisted for the Travel Weekly Agent Achievement Awards 2025, well that was the cherry on top. It’s been an amazing journey so far and I’m really excited for what’s next!"

With the support of Advantage, what exciting developments or future plans do you have for your business?

"We’ve been able to start exploring some really exciting and practical developments. For example, we’re bringing on an agent who previously worked part-time in a school and couldn’t commit to being a full-time homeworker due to financial commitments. However, I have changed the way I have worked previously to be able to help and accommodate her needs. So, from September, she’ll be joining us in a flexible commission-based role. There’s real potential in this space and we’re keen to grow it carefully and sustainably. We’re focused on realistic, well-planned growth, nothing too over the top, but still ambitious.

I would also love to expand our website with more blog content and explore AI tools, like virtual hotel tours, in a way that supports the business without losing the personal service our customers value. However, that’s all down to time, but I’m sure we’ll get there."

What advice would you give to others considering a homeworking travel business, and how can the services Advantage offers make a difference?

"My biggest piece of advice? Do your research. It's hard work going out on your own, so you need to have all the information before making the final decision. It takes real commitment!

It’s important to understand what your business will be inside out and have a clear idea of how you plan to make it successful. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach. The Business Development team at Advantage Travel Partnership have the knowledge to be able to talk through your proposition and guide you to the model that’s right for you.

And ultimately, take the leap! It was one of the best decisions I have made. Be brave but make sure your risks are calculated. And that’s where Advantage can really help. They offer support, structure and a network of people who’ve been through it, so you’re never doing it alone."

And finally, how do you feel about our recent glow up?

"I absolutely love it. The recent glow up hasn’t felt overpowering, it’s been thoughtful, fresh and exciting. It’s great to be a part of something that still feels true to its values, especially the sense of community and ethos that runs through everything.

What’s really special is how the positivity filters down. It’s not just about me, it affects how I feel, how my agents feel and ultimately how our clients experience what we do.

Honestly, I’m so grateful. Being part of Advantage Travel Partnership has helped me shape the business I always dreamed of. I genuinely don’t think I could have done that anywhere else."

Ready to start your own travel business or grow your existing business with the support of Advantage Travel Partnership?  Find out more here.