A Conversation with Reshandia Phillips, Veteran Travel Advisor

Reshandia Phillips is a highly experienced and passionate travel advisor based in Raytown, Missouri, with over a decade of success in curating unforgettable travel experiences for clients across the globe. Known for her meticulous attention to detail, personalized service, and deep destination knowledge, Reshandia specializes in all-inclusive vacations, group travel, destination weddings, and multi-city international itineraries.

Her career began with a love of planning trips for family and friends, which quickly grew into a full-time profession driven by a commitment to delivering seamless and meaningful journeys. Reshandia’s clients value her ability to transform travel dreams into reality, all while navigating logistics with ease and offering insider perks and personalized touches.

She continuously stays ahead of industry trends through certifications, professional development, and partnerships with global tourism networks. Whether planning a romantic escape, a milestone celebration, or a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, Reshandia is dedicated to making travel stress-free, enriching, and unforgettable.

Outside of work, she enjoys exploring new cultures, sharing travel tips, and connecting with her community. For Reshandia Phillips, travel isn’t just about getting from one place to another—it’s about creating stories worth telling.

What first sparked your passion for travel, and how did it lead you to become a travel agent? 
Growing up in Raytown, Missouri, I was always fascinated by the idea of far-off places and different cultures. I remember watching travel shows as a child and being captivated by the vibrant colors, unique foods, and traditions from around the world. But I didn’t get to travel much in my early years, which only deepened my curiosity. As I got older, I started planning small trips for friends and family—just for fun at first—and I realized I had a knack for logistics, budgeting, and finding hidden gems. Eventually, I decided to turn that passion into a profession, and I haven’t looked back since.

How do you approach crafting a travel itinerary that’s truly personalized? 
It all starts with listening. I take the time to understand what the client is really looking for—whether it’s relaxation, adventure, cultural immersion, or a bit of everything. I ask about their past travel experiences, likes and dislikes, comfort levels, and even things like dietary preferences. From there, I tap into my knowledge and trusted supplier network to design a trip that’s more than just a cookie-cutter package. My goal is to create a story they’ll want to tell again and again.

What destinations are currently your top recommendations for travelers looking for something new and exciting? 
Lately, I’ve been recommending Portugal for its rich history, stunning coastlines, and incredible value. Vietnam is also a rising star—so much beauty, culture, and amazing food. For clients who prefer something closer to home, I’m seeing a lot of interest in the Pacific Northwest—places like Oregon and Washington offer a great mix of nature, culture, and culinary experiences. And of course, the Caribbean never goes out of style, especially the less-touristy islands like St. Kitts or Grenada.

What sets you apart from online booking platforms or DIY travel planning? 
Online platforms offer convenience, but they can’t provide the human touch, context, or real-time support that I do. I bring years of experience, insider knowledge, and professional connections to the table. If a flight gets canceled or a hotel overbooks, I’m the one making the calls and resolving the issue—my clients aren’t left to figure it out on their own. More than that, I add value by suggesting options they wouldn’t have found online, often at better rates or with added perks. It’s about service, trust, and peace of mind.

What do you enjoy most about working in the travel industry? 
There’s something deeply rewarding about helping people create memories that last a lifetime. When a client returns home and tells me their trip exceeded expectations—that they felt seen, taken care of, and inspired—it fuels me. I also love the constant learning. Travel is always evolving, and being in this industry keeps me engaged with new cultures, technology, and ideas. No two days are the same, and that keeps the work exciting.

Have you had a particularly memorable travel planning experience you can share? 
One that stands out is when I helped plan a surprise 25th wedding anniversary trip to Italy for a couple. The husband wanted to recreate their honeymoon but add some extra flair. I arranged for a private gondola ride in Venice, a cooking class in Tuscany, and even a vow renewal ceremony with a local officiant. When they got back, they sent me a handwritten letter—yes, a real letter—thanking me for bringing them closer together. That’s the kind of impact that makes this career incredibly fulfilling.

What types of travel do you specialize in, and what makes each one unique to plan? 
I specialize in all-inclusive vacations, group travel coordination, destination weddings, and multi-city international itineraries. Each type has its own rhythm and challenges. Group trips require attention to detail and communication to keep everyone on the same page. Destination weddings mean managing vendors across borders, sometimes in different languages. Multi-city trips demand efficient transportation planning and balancing sightseeing with rest. But I thrive on that complexity—it allows me to be both creative and strategic.

How do you stay current with the fast-changing travel landscape? 
I’m constantly learning. I participate in webinars, attend trade shows, complete certifications with tourism boards, and maintain active memberships in professional travel organizations. I also stay connected with fellow agents and suppliers around the world. Social media helps too—I follow travel trends closely and listen to what people are excited (or nervous) about. Staying ahead of the curve allows me to give my clients the most up-to-date and relevant advice.

What advice would you give to someone traveling internationally for the first time? 
Keep an open mind and stay flexible. Things may not always go as planned, and that’s okay—it’s part of the adventure. Learn a few basic phrases in the local language, be respectful of cultural differences, and make copies of important documents just in case. I always advise my first-time international travelers to pace themselves—you don’t need to see everything to have a meaningful trip. Sometimes the best memories come from the unexpected.

What do you hope your clients take away from working with you? 
I hope they feel empowered, inspired, and cared for. I want them to know that they’re not just another booking on a spreadsheet—they’re part of a community of travelers I truly care about. My clients trust me with some of their most important moments, whether it’s a honeymoon, a long-awaited retirement trip, or a family reunion. I take that responsibility seriously, and I always aim to deliver an experience that feels personal, memorable, and joyful.

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