Inspiring Journeys: Ella Wright, Founder of Goodlife Travel

Inspired by a desire to create something of her own and to show her daughter that girls can achieve anything they set their minds to, Ella now helps others discover incredible destinations while sharing the confidence and determination she first developed during her time at Leicester High.

What inspired you to open your own travel agency?

I have worked in travel for many years and have lived all over the world. I have always dreamed of having my own business, something that I would have complete creative control over. Since having my own daughter, I wanted to create a business that could show her that girls can achieve anything that they set their mind to, and hence Goodlife Travel was born.

Looking back, what advice would you give your younger self when you were a student at Leicester High?

Looking back, I wish I had believed in myself more, my teachers always told me I could, but I never believed them. I remember not wanting to open my GCSE results in front of the teachers as I thought I would have failed, but to my surprise I had excelled far beyond what I thought I was capable of and achieved A's & B's.

What has been the most rewarding part of opening your own business?

Honestly, I love the creative side, from designing the interior of the store to the branding. Sometimes when I open the store, I have a real pinch me moment of wow, I have actually achieved this. I love helping people travel and visit places they never thought would be possible. So often people are shocked at how far their budget can actually take them and the countries they can explore.

If you could jump on a plane tomorrow, where would you go and why?

This question is so hard! A couple of years ago I embarked on an Alaskan cruise, the scenery was picturesque and calming. Right now, I would probably love to sit, have a coffee and sail past those views for an hour or two.

What is one travel destination you think everyone should visit at least once?

This will come as no surprise to many, but the answer is Walt Disney World! A place where you honestly leave your worries behind, live in the moment and everyone is a big kid! It's one of the most magical places on earth for children and adults alike. I recently took my daughter on her first Disney trip and seeing it through her eyes was even more magical. I previously worked at Walt Disney World so it will always have a special place in my heart.