Today we’d like to introduce you to Barb Wright.
Hi Barb, please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Growing up, travel always meant visiting family—it was about building connections and nurturing relationships. Those early trips shaped my belief that travel brings people together, bridging distances both literal and emotional. After spending several years in various sales careers, I found myself traveling on incentive trips and exploring places like Bulgaria, Romania, Paris, and Israel. Each new destination broadened my perspective, but it was my journey to Africa that truly transformed my outlook and career ambitions.
During my time in Africa, one moment stands out vividly: in a small village in Kenya, I met with three mothers who were teaching me beading. Sitting together, swapping stories over our task at hand, I realized that despite our differences in culture, language, and customs, our hopes and dreams were remarkably similar. Everyone I met, regardless of where they came from, wanted to be loved, feel safe, and be respected. This experience deepened my understanding of our shared humanity and sparked a new sense of purpose in my professional life.
Motivated by this revelation, I decided to shift my career focus to travel, aiming to make a meaningful impact through each journey I helped facilitate. In September 2019, I joined Largay Travel as my host agency and enrolled in their mentoring program. On April Fools’ Day, I graduated—just as the world was shutting down due to COVID. Navigating the challenges of a closed world was daunting, but as travel slowly resumed, my years of community service and sales experience became invaluable. Friends and colleagues reached out, seeking help to plan their “Trips of a Lifetime.”
Now, six years into my travel career, my network has grown through heartfelt referrals, targeted advertising, and classic networking. As I continue to help others experience the world, I am committed to fostering deeper connections and understanding across cultures—one journey at a time. Looking ahead, my vision is to inspire others to see the world not just as a collection of destinations, but as an opportunity for personal growth, shared experiences, and lasting relationships.
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?
Transitioning from being an employee to owning my own business was anything but smooth. In addition to learning tough lessons about taxes—like the shock of owing a sizeable amount my first year as a full-time travel advisor—I also struggled with time management and the constant balancing act between work and personal life. Building a client base from scratch was challenging; there were days I questioned if I’d ever gain traction, especially when leads went cold or bookings fell through. I often found myself working late nights and weekends, trying to juggle client needs, administrative work, and marketing efforts on my own. Looking back, I would advise anyone starting out to consult with a professional early on to avoid costly mistakes and to focus on building a strong support network. These experiences taught me the importance of seeking help when needed and prioritizing self-care alongside business growth.
As you know, we’re big fans of Travel Wright with Barb. For our readers who might not be as familiar what can you tell them about the brand?
I design luxury travel experiences that go far beyond simply booking a trip. My specialty is creating highly personalized itineraries for clients who want more than “just a vacation”—they want a journey filled with meaning, joy, and a little bit of magic. Whether it’s a multi-generational family adventure, a wellness retreat, or a once-in-a-lifetime vacation, I curate every detail so my clients can relax and truly savor the experience.
What sets me apart is the way I blend insider access, trusted global partnerships, and thoughtful touches that make each trip feel effortless and unforgettable. My clients know me for anticipating needs they didn’t even realize they had and for crafting moments that feel both seamless and special.
I’m most proud that my brand stands for care, connection, and curiosity. Every itinerary is designed not only to elevate travel but also to enrich lives through the stories, people, and places encountered along the way.
At the heart of my work is this: travel should feel extraordinary, stress-free, and tailored to you.
If we knew you growing up, how would we have described you?
Growing up as the youngest in a family with much older parents and siblings, I was constantly surrounded by adults—an environment that shaped my slightly quirky personality and preference for a few close friends over large groups. I found joy and self-expression through ice skating at the old King Louie rink, where I performed in their “Ice Capades.” I vividly remember the thrill of stepping onto the ice in a sparkling costume, my heart pounding as the lights came up and the crowd cheered—it was a mix of nerves and exhilaration that taught me how rewarding it could be to push past fear. Later, I discovered community theater as a teenager, immersing myself in rehearsals and performances that challenged me to step outside my comfort zone, like the first time I had to sing solo in front of an audience. Despite these brave moments, I was still hesitant about adventure; when my class in Roanoke, VA, planned a trip to Washington DC, I was too frightened to join and stayed home instead. It’s amazing to think how much I’ve changed since then—what once scared me now excites me. One vivid example came years later when I traveled solo to China for the first time; I was anxious about not knowing the language, but I chose to embrace the challenge and ended up making friends with local guides who helped me navigate the city. Now, whether I’m exploring new corners of the world alone or with my husband, I look forward to each new adventure, grateful for how far I’ve come from the nervous kid I once was.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.travelwrightwithbarb.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travelwrightwithbarb/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TravelWrightwithBarb
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/travelwrightwithbarb/
- Other: https://www.virtuoso.com/advisor/barbwrig49715
