The Tribune

By JADE RUSSELL 

Tribune Staff Reporter 

jrussell@tribunmedia.net

RICKEA Hepburn, 24, has transformed her passion for travel into a career by launching a travel agency dedicated to showcasing The Bahamas’ true beauty and providing affordable travel options for those eager to explore the world.

Ms Hepburn’s agency aims to combat the negative press surrounding The Bahamas and offer personalised travel experiences for clients who wish to travel globally.

In an interview with The Tribune, Ms Hepburn shared that her love for travel began through trips with family and friends. She enjoyed planning every detail — arranging hotels, tickets, car rentals, and uncovering hidden gems. After earning a bachelor’s degree in business management and hospitality, followed by a Master’s in Global Hospitality Management from Georgia State University, she returned to New Providence to establish Rickea Hepburn Travel Agency.

In January 2024, The Bahamas made international headlines when the United States issued a travel advisory following a string of murders. This led to media outlets wrongly portraying the country as highly dangerous. Despite the government spending nearly $10m to counter the negative press, misinformation about The Bahamas persists.

Ms Hepburn’s agency caters to both international travellers visiting The Bahamas and Bahamians seeking to travel abroad. Proud of her Bahamian heritage, she said she is committed to showcasing the true essence of the country, which is often overshadowed by negative media. She emphasised the importance of tourism to The Bahamas and her efforts to collaborate with local businesses and resorts to support the economy.

“The Bahamas is a destination that thrives because of its people and the small businesses that bring so much character to the islands,” she said. “I work closely with local resorts, tour operators, and restaurants to make sure my clients have an authentic, seamless experience.“

Ms Hepburn also addressed the misrepresentation of The Bahamas on social media, pointing out that only the negative aspects — such as crime reports and safety advisories — tend to make headlines.

“What’s often overlooked is that the vast majority of The Bahamas is incredibly safe, especially in areas where tourists typically visit. The islands are known for their warmth, hospitality, and stunning natural beauty. As an agent, I share the real, positive stories with my clients,” she added.

Launching her business locally posed challenges due to scepticism around hiring travel agents, but Ms Hepburn has built strong relationships with her clients. She acknowledged that some people view travel agents as an unnecessary expense but explained that she offers discounted rates that are not easily accessible to clients on their own. She also ensures that her clients’ trips are safe and involve reputable businesses.

Ms Hepburn shared that some of her clients had negative experiences planning trips to non-English-speaking countries, where they were either scammed or overcharged by unreliable service providers.

She has also noticed a recent increase in interest in destinations like Panama, Miami, Dubai, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and non-visa routes.

“I ask clients about their budget, which helps me offer realistic options that fit their financial comfort while still providing great experiences,” Ms Hepburn explained.

Ms Hepburn is a member of the Bahamas Travel Agent Association and part of “The Dream Team,” a network of local women managing their own travel businesses.

She said her main goal is to create a win-win situation for both her clients and The Bahamas.

“I want to make travel accessible and enjoyable for everyone,” she said.

You can contact her on Instagram or Facebook @rhepburntravel or via WhatsApp at 914-771-2421.