The travel planner who turned 1.2M views into unforgettable client experiences.
Meet Ant from HotDog Holidays Manchester — a travel agent who’s living proof that it’s never too late to follow your passion. With travel qualifications that sat on the shelf for years, Ant finally took the leap in February 2025, and let’s just say the results speak for themselves.
“I’ve always had a fire inside that wanted to see and explore as much of the world as I could,” Ant shares. “If I’m not on holiday, I’m thinking about my next one.”
Travel Niche & Personal Touch
Ant specialises in family packages with a focus on waterparks, theme parks, and those all-important last-minute getaways. But here’s what sets him apart — his background in sales and marketing combined with an obsessive attention to detail.
“I’ve always been a massive planner,” he explains. “Whether it’s a group holiday, corporate event, or my own personal travel, I do my research to avoid mishaps.”
This translates into exceptional client care. Ant’s clients don’t just get a booking — they get the full experience. “It’s not unusual that I will spam them with links, itineraries, things to do, nicest beaches in the area. I’d like to think that they feel looked after.”
The JLT Journey So Far
Since joining JLT in February, Ant has absolutely smashed it with £270k in bookings. But the numbers only tell part of the story. He’s been securing amazing free upgrades for clients, earning glowing reviews and repeat business.
Plus, his social media game is on fire — 1.2M views in just 28 days last month, which has done wonders for raising his profile and working the algorithm.
His proudest moments? Those free hotel day passes he secured while on his own holiday, getting treated like VIP for free. It’s this insider knowledge and relationship-building that makes all the difference. Next up, Ant’s expanding his cruise industry knowledge — watch this space.
Memorable Booking Moment
The booking that really stands out happened during Ant’s own family holiday. “A client called me whilst on my own family holiday and I took it on as it was a special anniversary and I wanted the challenge,” he recalls. It was a Sandals booking, and Ant threw himself into piecing together the perfect trip — complete with free lounge access arrangements.
“I really enjoyed piecing the trip together for them and organising free lounge access so they have the most memorable time.” It’s this dedication that shows exactly why Ant’s clients keep coming back and recommending him to others.
Words of Wisdom
When asked what surprised him most about the travel business, Ant’s answer was immediate: “How addictive it is and how much it doesn’t feel like work — in fact, the opposite. I regularly have to be prised from my laptop.”
His biggest regret? “Not doing it sooner.” His advice to anyone considering the leap? “Just go for it.”
Ant also wanted to shout out the JLT core team: “How patient and knowledgeable the core team are” — something every agent appreciates when building their business.
Looking Ahead
Next on Ant’s personal bucket list? Mexico — and he’s finally settled on a date to go! Plus, here’s a brilliant tip from someone who knows his way around travel planning:
“Add custom pins of your favourite restaurants, places of interest to Apple Maps or Google Maps online before you go.”
From qualifications that sat on the shelf to £270k in bookings and viral social media success — Ant’s proving that passion, planning, and the right support can turn travel dreams into thriving businesses.
We’re so excited to watch this journey unfold, and we know this is just the beginning!
