It sounds like a dream job but reps work hard to make sure your holiday goes smoothly. From partying with twenty-somethings to dealing with disgruntled guests and living in close quarters with colleagues, five Irish people working around Europe tell us about the highs and lows of being a rep
Irish reps
Back in the heyday of package holidays, holiday reps were the kings and queens of travel. Pretty much every travel agency had their trusty reps on the ground, flitting between hotels with clipboards, organising busloads of travellers and making sure everything ran like clockwork. It was also one of the most coveted summer jobs — hanging out in the sun for months, having the craic with guests and living a party lifestyle while earning money. But now, as an increasing number of people plan their own trips independently, it seems like fewer agencies are hiring reps to work on location, instead relying on 24/7 phone support back at home.
However, some are still sticking with the classic format, employing holiday reps in locations all around Europe. We spoke to four Irish reps (and one veteran) to see what the job entails today, what their lifestyle is like, and if holidaymakers are still as wild as they once were…
