Homeworking agency Designer Travel has hailed the “priceless” experiences of fam trips, as 18 agents are taking part in four long-haul luxury ‘Exclusive Journeys’ in the coming months.

Six of the team have flown out this week to the Maldives on a four-day educational trip (pictured), being run in partnership with luxury operator If Only. The agents will be visiting Oblu Select Sangeli, Atmosphere Kanifushi and Varu by Atmosphere.

Karen Pocock, Designer Travel co-owner, said: “The Indian Ocean is one of our biggest selling destinations.

“We are already so fortunate in having an excellent all-round knowledge of the Maldives, but, ultimately, in order to retain our reputation as Indian Ocean experts, we need to keep abreast of new products and updates at hotels and resorts that are much loved by our customers.

“Providing advice and recommendations based on our own travel experiences is priceless.”

Other holiday types will be experienced on three more fam trips over the coming 12 weeks as part of Designer Travel’s annual ‘Exclusive Journeys’ initiative.

Six agents will fly to South Africa in October for a luxury safari trip, in partnership with upmarket operator Carrier.

It will include a stay at Jaci’s Lodges in Madikwe Game Reserve, then a night at The Residence before heading to Victoria Falls River Lodge.

“There is no doubt that when they return from Africa their customers and colleagues will all benefit from this very special experience and close encounter with Africa’s magical wildlife,” said Pocock.

November’s trip will see a group travel to Costa Rica with operator partner Exsus, for a nine-day exploration of the country’s beaches, wildlife and rainforests.

The final Exclusive Journeys trip will take place in December with eight flying out to Antigua to experience Carlisle Bay Resort and Blue Waters Resort and Spa.

Pocock said:c “Designer Travel Journeys complements our already extensive educational programme where we work hard to secure at least one educational place for every team member – subject, of course, to their availability – once per year.

“We also have an annual luxury overseas conference, so the opportunities for hands-on learning experiences are exceptional within the business.

“After each trip the team member completes an educational dossier, which is then shared with every member of the Designer Team helping to ensure maximum impact and results for the destination and accommodation visited.”

Several Exclusive Journeys are planned for 2024 and details are set to be revealed “very soon”.

Designer Travel has a travel agency in Ramsbottom and 120 homeworkers around the UK.