Today we’d like to introduce you to Bella Narvaez
Hi Bella, so excited to have you with us today. What can you tell us about your story?
After building a successful career in banking I found myself burned out and lacking motivation, getting out of bed every morning was becoming difficult and I was really struggling. My job wasn’t fulfilling anymore. This all happened during the pandemic when I had the involuntary but necessary time to slow down and reflect on my life,
During that time I developed a healthy routine, which I carry with me still today, and the closer I got in touch with my spirituality the more distant I found myself from the money-hungry business of banking.
I was searching for a purpose, looking for a sign, to a path that would lead me to a happier professional life while doing something I was passionate about.
One day, after a difficult day at work, I was driving home and all I could think about was that I couldn’t wait to go on vacation, and that I worked to travel. I had been planning my own complex family trips for the last 6 years, from beginning to end and I absolutely loved it. Then it hit me!
I had already made my decision to leave my job, and that was the easy part, pulling the trigger and resigning from my secure high-paying job of 15 years was the single hardest decision I’ve ever made in my professional life, but it was worth it! I love my job as a travel advisor.
At the very beginning of my career in the travel industry, I decided that If I was going to sell travel I wanted to do it with a purpose and do it right. If we don’t become more aware of our actions and make a conscious effort to help preserve all that we enjoy experiencing through our travels – culture, nature, wildlife, local cuisine, etc – there won’t be much left for the future generations.
To help promote sustainable travel and tourism I educated myself. I’ve obtained a professional certificate in sustainable tourism from the Global Sustainability Tourism Council (GSTC) and other relevant certificates. I’m actively engaged in the topic and I’m building a fantastic network of like-minded individuals and tourism enterprises with values worth sharing.
My goal is to promote a responsible traveler mindset and spark some curiosity and awareness on the topic.
Would you say it’s been a smooth road, and if not what are some of the biggest challenges you’ve faced along the way?
The biggest challenge in the beginning was my ego. Going from an expert and respected business professional to new-to-the-business was a humble experience.
Alright, so let’s switch gears a bit and talk business. What should we know about your work?
As a leisure advisor, I help clients with all aspects of their travel, starting with a free consultation to learn more about them and their interests, travel style, budget, etc. This step is key in designing the vacation of their dreams, the more they talk the more equipped I am to anticipate their needs.
My recommendations and suggestions are tailored to their needs and likes, promoting tourism enterprises with practices in place aligned with the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), as often as possible.
Since I work in a retail office where we get all kinds of requests, from cruises, and land packages to a complex tailored-made itinerary, I have to be well versed. However, I thrive when I’m challenged to use my creativity in designing active itineraries with immersive and meaningful experiences,
It is worth noting that I have an educational background in culinary arts and I always find a way to pepper in culinary recommendation.
We’re always looking for the lessons that can be learned in any situation, including tragic ones like the Covid-19 crisis. Are there any lessons you’ve learned that you can share?
I think I answered that on my story…but yes. I learned that we need to slow down to listen to our hearts. Take nice, slow, deep breaths, and listen to your heart.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.froschvacations.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bella_recommends/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@simplybella_3619
Image Credits
N/A
