We had the good fortune of connecting with Natalia Yepes and we’ve shared our conversation below.
Hi Natalia, we’d love to start by asking you about lessons learned. Is there a lesson you can share with us?
The most important lesson my business has taught me is to know my value. When I first opened my agency I wanted to be the travel advisor for everyone, but I realized that my specialized services aren’t made for mass appeal. I had to learn to stand my ground and know that my time is very valuable, and the level of service I provide should be appreciated. I’ve learned to find my voice and it’s helped me in every aspect of life: not just professionally
What should our readers know about your business?
My business is Adventuresque Travel Boutique. I take pride in the fact that it is not simply a travel agency. I provide specific travel advice and create customized itineraries for clients that are looking to travel domestically or internationally.
Over 2 years I’ve really taken pride in the trips that I’ve built for clients because they come back stating that locals are impressed with the routing or uniqueness of their trips. I built my company hoping to expose my clients to the path less traveled at their destinations.
Adventuresque Travel Boutique has now created over 150 trips in just 2 years to every continent except Antartica. Getting here has been anything but easy, but it has been the most rewarding endeavor I’ve taken on in my life. I am facing the normal challenges of growth, while trying to maintain my high level of service. I previously faced the stresses of building this business alone, while still maintaining a full time job.
Now I’m entering the exciting phase of full-time entrepreneurship putting full faith and time into my business. While it is the boldest thing I’ve done in my career, I am doing it knowing that my passion will be noticed by my clients which will lead to repeat business and referrals.
I have learned that working without rest leads to mistakes and burnout. Taking care of yourself is just as important as taking care of your business. I am trying to create a better work/life balance and am doing so by participating in more community events, dance classes for myself, and spending more time with family and friends.
I want people to know that my brand stands for beautiful travel experiences for travelers of all budgets. The main focus of Adventuresque is exposing you to a new world, new cultures, and new way of traveling.
Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
If my friend was visiting, I’d expose them to all the parts of Miami I have loved over my lifetime that have made me who I am.
I’d start with Coral Gables for its history and beautiful architecture. My favorite spot is Books & Books, I always relax there and have a nice drink while reading a new book. I also love the restaurant: Calista Greek Seafood Taverna.
I’d take them to the Everglades for nature and exposure to the Miccosukee Reservation, I used to love doing the airboat rides and learning about the wildlife there when I was a child.
I’d then go over to Coconut Grove for the beautiful views and I’d have drinks at CocoWalk, it’s very different now but I recently had some great drinks at The Key Club.
I would also check out the Little River section of Miami with places like The Citadel and Off Site.
I am a huge museum lover so I would take them to PAMM and the Frost Museum of Science. That way they can also get beautiful bay views.
If we are going to enjoy some beach time I’d visit North Beach, it’s my favorite one to visit.
Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
I definitely want to thank my family; since the day I announced my idea they’ve been standing behind me, hearing my ideas, and cheering me on. I don’t think many people realize how important it is to have a support system. Entrepreneurship is very fulfilling but also takes a toll on your mental health. I would not be as confident without their support.
Website: www.adventuresquetravel.com
Instagram: @adventuresqueTB
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalia-y-a5530924/
Twitter: @adventuresqueTB
Facebook: @adventuresqueTB
Yelp: https://www.yelp.com/biz/adventuresque-travel-boutique-miami-lakes