A Scottish agent says she is determined to support others in developing their travel careers after founding her first business. 

Edinburgh-based Leanne Rees left Swords Travel in October to launch Secret Paths, fulfilling a long-held ambition to be her own boss. 

The new venture will deliver a highly bespoke service, complete with one-to-one consultations, tailor-made itineraries and expert advice. “This isn’t just flights and hotels – these are fully authentic experiences that you can’t easily find yourself,” Rees told TTG Luxury. 

Secret Paths will cover a wide range of destinations, including South America, the Middle East and Asia, while also specialising in Italy, where Rees aims to offer clients a more local experience. 

“I won’t just be offering walking tours around Rome,” she said. “These activities will be far more immersive, from pasta making to truffle hunting.” All suppliers have been personally handpicked by Rees, who holds more than 25 years’ industry experience. 

Rees added that going solo has already brought greater freedom, allowing her to partner with more operators and to select her preferred customer relationship management (CRM) software. 

A self-confessed “travel addict”, Rees is also keen to nurture the next generation of travel professionals, having learned the value of strong leadership since starting her career at Thomas Cook in 1999. 

“I really want to mentor others,” she revealed. “Over the years, I’ve learned how to be a manager – and, just as importantly, how not to manage people.” 

Once fully established, Rees plans to build a small team of homeworkers across the UK. “I genuinely love helping people develop their skills and confidence,” she added. 

Rees also credited Swords Travel, where she spent two and a half years as an associate, describing the Wimbledon-based agency as an excellent training ground to build her entrepreneurial skills. 

Asked what advice she would give to agents who’d like to follow in her footsteps, Rees stressed the importance of finding a reputable bonder and having robust systems in place from the outset. She also warned of long hours and minimal time off – especially if you’re starting just before peaks. 

“I’ve been working from 9am until 11pm every day – I haven’t had a break yet,” Rees admitted. “But it’s going really well. My clients have been incredibly supportive, and I’m genuinely enjoying the journey.”