Local residents are dreaming of the Land of the Rising Sun in 2024.

"The hottest destination for 2024 so far has been Japan," said Teagan Underwood, a 28-year-old travel agent from Helensburgh. 

Driving the demand, she said, are its "cherry blossom beauty, timeless traditions, mouthwatering cuisine, thrilling snow sports, futuristic cities and unparalleled hospitality".

"You can explore the perfect blend of ancient charm and modern marvels. It’s the perfect trip for the whole family!"

Feeling inspired? Thanks to Teagan for taking the time to tell us more about her work.

Please tell us a bit about yourself.

I have been a travel agent for over eight years, and I have been lucky enough to have visited 40+ countries. My favourite country to visit at the moment would have to be Japan!

Before I was a travel agent, I was an early childhood educator.   

I also have two chihuahuas, Oreo and LeBron – they are very spoiled.

What is your business called?

Teagan-TravelManagers is my own small business travel agency.

How did it begin?

I started travelling the week after I finished high school and, safe to say, I got bitten by the travel bug.

I found I was booking all my friends and family's trips already and constantly researching holidays to find the best deals. So I decided to become a travel agent! I absolutely loved my job and creating my clients’ journeys whilst finding them the best deals.

During Covid, the company I worked for went bankrupt which meant I was made redundant. I tried a few new roles after this but missed being a travel agent every single day.

I decided to come back to being a travel agent but this time for myself with my very own business. I have not looked back since!  

Best part of your job?

Finding my clients better deals compared to online and seeing their happy faces when they are travelling.  

Most challenging?

Challenges are part of the job as a travel agent – that is why I am here, to take that pressure off my clients so they can enjoy their trip.

Flights can be tricky with cancellations and time changes. I always try to have a solution ready to go before my clients even know something has happened.  

What are your picks for travel trends in 2024?

The hottest destination for 2024 so far has been Japan. Travel trends for 2024 also include beach escapes to Bali, Thailand and Fiji.

Europe is also always popular – who doesn’t want to escape our winter and live it up in Europe!

I am constantly posting the latest trends and hot destinations on my Facebook page – check it out here.

What is your favourite local way to relax?

Grabbing an iced latte from Stokes Lane Cafe and going for a walk along the beach.

For more information, visit the website or follow Teagan's business page on Facebook.