We absolutely love seeing our agents out in the world, deepening their knowledge, building relationships, and getting that first-hand experience that makes all the difference when it comes to serving clients.
Recently, one of our amazing agents, Ricky, was invited by our brilliant bedbank partner Yalago to join their very first FAM trip – and what a trip it was!
The group, made up of agents from a range of agencies, split their time between Kos and Rhodes, experiencing standout properties including Ikos Aria, Grecotel LUXME Dama Dama, Mitsis Selection Alila, and Sheraton Rhodes Resort.
They also squeezed in some unique experiences – from a traditional Greek night in the mountain village of Zia to an island-hopping adventure to Symi, and an evening soaking up the charm of Rhodes Old Town.
Yalago’s UK Sales Executive, Kyle Donald, shared that the trip was a huge success — even with a bit of rain at the start! The focus was on making the experience smooth, valuable, and full of inspiration. Huge thanks to the Yalago team and their Greek partners for the warm welcome and exceptional hospitality.
We caught up with Ricky when he got back to hear all about it — the hotels, the highlights, and how trips like this help shape confidence and connections as a travel professional.
Let’s dive into the Q&A:
1. What were your first impressions of Rhodes and Kos?
My first impression of Rhodes and Kos was how green the islands were, set against the backdrop of crystal-clear waters. This natural beauty is enhanced by the rich history that both islands have to offer. What also stood out to me was how warm and welcoming the Greek people are, some of the friendliest I’ve ever met. Nothing is too much trouble for them, and you truly feel well looked after. It was my first time visiting Greece, and I already can’t wait to go back!
2. Can you give us a quick overview of the hotels you visited? Any standout favourites?
We visited a range of 4 and 5 star hotels across both islands, staying in 4 different properties over 6 nights. The standout hotel for me was Ikos Aria in Kos—it truly felt like it was in a league of its own. The sheer range of facilities caters to both couples and families, ensuring there’s something for everyone. It’s a hotel that genuinely won’t disappoint.
We also toured a number of Mitsis hotels, which offer excellent value across their portfolio—from budget-friendly options to ultra all-inclusive resorts. There’s something suitable for every type of client.
3. Were there any small touches at the hotels that really elevated the experience?
Yes, many of the hotels offered thoughtful extras that enhanced the stay—like complimentary minibars in the rooms and small gifts left for guests to take home. These little touches made a big impression and added to the sense of care and quality.
4. Which hotel would you recommend most for families? And which for couples or solo travellers?
For families, I would highly recommend the Mitsis hotels. They go above and beyond to keep all ages happy—with stone-baked pizza on the beach, unlimited ice cream, crepes, waffles, à la carte restaurants, and an extensive cocktail menu for the adults.
For couples or solo travellers, Mitsis hotels are also a great option due to the variety of experiences available, from relaxing by the pool to enjoying high-end dining and spa treatments. But if you have clients looking for more of that wow factor I would recommend the Ikos brand and you get a more included as standard.
5. How do you think seeing these properties in person will change how you talk about them with clients?
Having in person site inspections was incredibly valuable. They gave us a thorough understanding of each property, far beyond what brochures or websites can offer. I’ve already been able to use this knowledge to advise clients more effectively, matching them with properties that best meet their preferences and needs.
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6. What was the biggest thing you learned from this trip as an agent?
The biggest thing I learned was how powerful firsthand experience is when it comes to selling a destination or hotel. No amount of online training or brochures can compare to actually walking through the properties, seeing the rooms, tasting the food, and feeling the atmosphere. It’s given me so much more confidence when recommending these places to clients because I can now speak from genuine experience, not just information.
7. How did this trip help build your confidence with selling Greece?
This trip has massively boosted my confidence in selling Greece. Visiting the destinations and hotels in person gave me a much clearer understanding of what each island and property offers. I also discovered just how diverse Greece is in terms of accommodation, activities, and atmosphere, there really is something for everyone.
8. What advice would you give to agents who’ve never been on a FAM trip before?
This was my first FAM trip, and I didn’t know what to expect, but it’s definitely an opportunity you should never turn down. The amount you learn and experience on a FAM is something you simply can’t get from online training. Seeing the properties in person brings everything to life and gives you so much more confidence when recommending them to clients.
9. What’s one thing you wish you’d packed but didn’t?
A power bank for my phone! One day, we visited six hotels, and I took so many photos and videos that my battery didn’t last. A power bank would’ve been a massive help. Luckily, a few other agents let me borrow theirs, I didn’t want to miss any photo opportunities that could help me sell these hotels later on.
10. Any tips for getting the most out of a FAM?
Ask as many questions as you can, there’s no such thing as a silly question. Chances are, if you’re wondering about something, someone else is too. Asking questions helps you get a deeper understanding of what the hotel or resort offers. And if you have a niche or specific type of client, use the opportunity to learn how well the property caters to that market.
11. Best Greek dish you ate on the trip?
The best dish was a slow cooked lamb served at a local restaurant in the Old Town of Rhodes. It was absolutely melt in the mouth, rich, tender, and full of flavour.
12. Most Instagrammable spot you found?
Definitely the day trip to the island of Symi. It was breathtaking, colourful houses cascading down the hillside, crystal-clear waters, and the perfect marina setting. Sitting at a waterfront café with great food and drinks while taking in those views was unforgettable.
13. Funniest moment or unexpected surprise from the trip?
The funniest moment had to be watching some of the other agents try oysters for the first time, their facial expressions were priceless when they realised they couldn’t stomach them!
14. If this FAM trip had a soundtrack, what song would sum it up?
On Top of the World by Imagine Dragons – all for the excitement and views!
15. One Greek phrase you picked up (or tried to)? 😄
“Yamas!” — definitely the most-used word of the trip, especially before taking an Ouzo (or two!) each night. Cheers to that!
16. If you could go back to one moment on the trip, which would it be?
I’d love to go back to Symi, sitting by the water with a glass of wine, just watching the world go by. It was one of those perfect, peaceful moments.
Also, I’ve made some amazing new friends on this trip, we even created a WhatsApp group to support each other and share updates on all the fantastic properties we visited.
Being an independent travel agent doesn’t mean you have to go it alone. Join the JLT Team and enjoy fantastic opportunities—just like these lucky agents!
