Anna Psarros (Source: Anna Psarros)
Travel Advisor Success Stories focus on veteran advisors and how they achieved success. Here’s a look at Anna Psarros, a travel advisor with Carlisle Travel Management.
How did you get your start as a travel advisor?
I started in the travel industry right out of high school, and more than 20 years later, it has become a career I truly love. Over the years, I have worked in corporate travel, leisure air and wholesale travel, which has given me a strong understanding of how different travelers think, plan and make decisions.
Corporate travel has been a major focus for me, especially supporting domestic and international business travelers. I also enjoy planning leisure vacations, particularly to destinations such as the Caribbean and Mexico.
What drew me in early was the pace of the industry, the problem-solving and the chance to help people feel taken care of before they ever leave home.
The relationships I have built with clients are what continue to inspire me. Being a trusted advisor and helping travelers from the planning process until they return home is one of the most rewarding parts of what I do.
How did you build your business over the years?
I built my business through trust, consistency and service. I have always believed clients come back when they know you are available, honest and paying attention to the details that matter.
A large part of my business has grown through referrals and repeat clients. That has never happened because of one booking. It comes from showing up before, during and after each trip, and from making clients feel confident that someone is looking out for them.
Strong relationships have always mattered more to me than simply completing a transaction. When clients know you genuinely care about their needs, they naturally become your strongest advocates.
What characteristics make you a successful advisor?
I think my strongest qualities are dedication, attention to detail, communication and a real commitment to my clients. I try to treat every trip with the same care I would want for myself or my family.
Travel can be complicated, especially with business travel or international itineraries. I work hard to anticipate issues, respond quickly and help clients feel supported from the first conversation until they are home again.
For me, success comes down to trust. Clients need to know that their advisor truly cares about the outcome of the trip and looks out for their best interests.
What have been your greatest challenges?
The biggest challenge has been learning to navigate the constant changes in travel. Airline schedule changes, weather issues, global events, changing regulations and unexpected disruptions are all part of the job.
COVID-19 was the most difficult period I have experienced in the industry. At that time, the work shifted from planning trips to helping clients manage cancellations, refunds, credits and changing restrictions.
It was demanding, but it also reminded me why advisors matter. In difficult moments, clients need someone calm, knowledgeable and willing to advocate for them.
What are your greatest accomplishments?
My greatest accomplishment is building a long career in an industry I love and earning the trust of clients who continue to come back year after year.
I am proud of the range of experience I have built across corporate, leisure and wholesale travel. That background allows me to help with many types of trips, from detailed business itineraries to personalized vacation planning.
More than anything, I am proud of the relationships I have built. Repeat business and referrals are the best confirmation that clients value the care and service I provide.
What tips can you provide to advisors new to the industry?
Focus on relationships first. A booking is one trip, but a relationship can last for years.
Also, keep learning. Travel changes constantly, and strong advisors stay curious about destinations, suppliers, technology and travel rules.
Pay attention to details, be responsive, and do not be afraid to go the extra mile. Clients remember how you made them feel, especially when something goes wrong. If you care about people and take pride in the work, the business can grow from there.
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