We recently connected with Gretna Davis and have shared our conversation below.
GRETNA, thanks for taking the time to share your stories with us today What was it like going from idea to execution? Can you share some of the backstory and some of the major steps or milestones?
Travel had always been a passion of mine. The allure of new places, the thrill of exploring different cultures, and the joy of tasting exotic cuisines were all things that filled my daydreams. But there was one problem—I didn’t want to go alone. The idea of wandering foreign streets, dining at charming cafes, or taking in breathtaking views without someone to share those moments with felt incomplete. It wasn’t just about the destinations; it was about the connections, the shared laughter, and the memories that would last a lifetime.
I started to wonder if others felt the same. Perhaps there were people out there, just like me, who had the same wanderlust but hesitated to venture out alone. People who longed for an adventure but didn’t want to embark on it solo. That’s when the idea struck me—why not create a way for people like us to travel together?
The concept was simple yet powerful: organized international trips for groups. I envisioned a community where people could come together, share their love for travel, and embark on unforgettable journeys without the fear of being alone. It would be more than just a trip; it would be an experience filled with camaraderie, new friendships, and the kind of memories that make life rich.
I began to plan, pouring over maps, researching destinations, and crafting itineraries that would offer the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural immersion. Each trip was designed with care, considering the diverse interests of travelers—whether it was exploring the bustling markets of Marrakech, sailing through the crystal-clear waters of the Maldives, or wandering the ancient streets of Istanbul.
As I organized the first few trips, the response was overwhelming. People from all walks of life joined in—solo travelers, couples, friends—all seeking the same thing: a shared adventure. The trips became a space where strangers became friends, and friends became travel companions for life.
Vacation Envy International was born out of this simple desire to travel together. What started as a solution to my own hesitation became a gateway for others to experience the world in a way that was not just about the places we visited, but about the people we shared those experiences with. Each trip became a story, each destination a chapter in the book of our shared adventures.
GRETNA, before we move on to more of these sorts of questions, can you take some time to bring our readers up to speed on you and what you do?
For those who may not have heard of Vacation Envy International before, I’m excited to share a bit about myself and the journey that led me into this incredible industry. My name is Gretna Davis and I’m the founder and heart behind Vacation Envy International, a luxury group travel company that specializes in creating unforgettable travel experiences for those who share a passion for exploring the world—but prefer not to do it alone.
How I Got Started
My love for travel started early, but like many, I often found myself hesitating to take trips solo. There was something about the idea of traveling alone that felt incomplete. I craved not just the adventure of discovering new places but the connection of sharing those experiences with others. It was this realization that sparked the idea to create group trips—opportunities for like-minded travelers to explore the world together, forging new friendships and memories along the way.
What We Offer
Vacation Envy International offers a range of meticulously planned international trips designed to cater to those who seek both adventure and luxury. Our services include all-inclusive group travel packages that cover flights, accommodations at top-rated hotels, immersive tours, ground transportation, and unique cultural experiences. We pride ourselves on offering more than just a vacation; we offer a curated journey where every detail is taken care of, allowing our clients to relax and fully immerse themselves in the destination.
Problems We Solve
Travel can be daunting, especially for those who don’t want to go it alone. We solve this problem by providing a community of travelers who share the same interests and enthusiasm for exploring the world. Our clients don’t have to worry about the logistics of planning, safety concerns, or feeling isolated in a foreign country. We handle everything, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience from start to finish.
What Sets Us Apart
What truly sets Vacation Envy International apart is our commitment to creating a sense of connection and community among our travelers. We believe that the best journeys are those shared with others, and we go the extra mile to foster an environment where strangers become friends, and friends become lifelong travel companions. Our trips are not just about the destinations but about the people you meet and the memories you make together.
What I’m Most Proud Of
I’m incredibly proud of the community we’ve built over the years. Watching our clients form lasting bonds and seeing the joy on their faces as they experience new cultures and destinations is what fuels my passion. Each trip is a testament to the power of travel to bring people together, and I’m honored to be a part of that journey.
What I Want You to Know
If you’re considering joining us on a future trip, know that you’re not just booking a vacation; you’re joining a family of explorers. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or someone who’s just starting to dip their toes into international travel, Vacation Envy International is here to provide a safe, luxurious, and unforgettable experience. We handle all the details so you can focus on what truly matters—enjoying the journey and making memories that will last a lifetime.
Have you ever had to pivot?
In early 2020, Vacation Envy International was thriving. I had several trips in the pipeline, with groups eagerly anticipating their upcoming adventures. Everything was running smoothly, and the year was shaping up to be one of the best yet for my business. The itineraries were set, hotels were booked, and clients were counting down the days until they could step onto that plane and immerse themselves in new cultures.
But then, the world changed almost overnight.
The news of a rapidly spreading virus began to dominate headlines. At first, it seemed distant—a problem for other parts of the world. But as days turned into weeks, it became clear that this wasn’t just a passing storm. The COVID-19 pandemic had arrived, and with it came uncertainty, fear, and a wave of lockdowns that brought the travel industry to a standstill.
Suddenly, the carefully planned trips I had worked so hard to organize were in jeopardy. Borders were closing, flights were being canceled, and the once-reliable rhythm of travel ground to a halt. My inbox was flooded with messages from anxious clients, many of whom wanted immediate refunds. They were understandably worried, not only about their travel plans but also about their health and safety.
The situation was daunting. I had to act quickly to navigate this uncharted territory. The first step was to communicate transparently with my clients. I knew that in times of uncertainty, clear and honest communication would be key. I reached out to everyone, explaining the situation as best as I could, outlining their options, and assuring them that I was working tirelessly to find solutions.
But as I spoke with my clients, I realized that this was more than just a logistical nightmare. These trips represented something deeper—a much-needed escape, a long-anticipated adventure, a moment of joy that they had been looking forward to in an otherwise challenging year. I didn’t want to simply cancel these experiences; I wanted to find a way to preserve the hope that travel brings.
That’s when I decided to pivot.
Instead of processing mass refunds and closing the door on these trips, I worked with airlines, hotels, and tour operators to secure credits and flexible rebooking options for my clients. I negotiated tirelessly to ensure that their investments in these trips weren’t lost. At the same time, I began to explore new ways to keep the spirit of travel alive, even while borders were closed.
One of the key pivots was introducing virtual travel experiences. I partnered with local guides and experts to offer clients virtual tours of the destinations they were supposed to visit. It wasn’t the same as being there in person, but it allowed my clients to experience the culture, history, and beauty of these places from the safety of their homes. These virtual experiences kept my clients engaged and reminded them that the world was still out there, waiting for them.
I also started offering personalized travel consultations, helping clients plan future trips with the flexibility to adapt to changing circumstances. This approach allowed me to keep my business afloat while ensuring that my clients felt supported and valued during such a difficult time.
The pandemic forced me to rethink how I operated, but it also reinforced why I started Vacation Envy International in the first place—to create meaningful connections and experiences that transcend the ordinary. The crisis tested my resolve, but it also gave me an opportunity to innovate and grow in ways I hadn’t imagined.
As travel began to slowly resume, I was able to reschedule many of the postponed trips, and I’m proud to say that most of my clients stayed with me through it all. The experience taught me the importance of adaptability, resilience, and the value of staying connected with my clients, even in the most challenging times.
Today, as we continue to navigate the new normal, I’m more committed than ever to providing exceptional travel experiences. The pandemic was a wake-up call, but it also reaffirmed my belief in the power of travel to bring people together, even when we’re physically apart. And as the world opens up again, I’m excited to continue this journey with my clients—stronger, wiser, and more inspired than ever.
How did you build your audience on social media?
When I first started Vacation Envy International, I had a clear vision of what I wanted to achieve—a travel business that would bring people together to explore the world. However, I didn’t have a big budget for marketing or a team to help me get started.
I decided to focus my efforts on social media. It was the perfect platform to reach like-minded individuals, share my passion, and build a community around the idea of group travel. I started by creating accounts on the major platforms—Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter—but my primary focus was Instagram because of its visual nature, which is perfect for showcasing beautiful travel destinations.
In the beginning, I didn’t have many followers. I knew I had to be strategic about how I grew my audience. I began by posting consistently, sharing stunning images of destinations I wanted to explore with my future clients. But I didn’t stop at just posting pretty pictures—I made sure each post told a story. I shared travel tips, personal anecdotes, and insights into the destinations. I wanted my followers to feel like they were getting to know not just the places I was featuring, but also the heart behind Vacation Envy International.
Engagement was key. I didn’t just post content and disappear—I actively engaged with my audience. I responded to comments, answered questions, and participated in conversations within the travel community. I also made a point of connecting with other travel enthusiasts, influencers, and businesses by liking, commenting, and sharing their content. This helped me build relationships and gain visibility within the travel niche.
Over time, I began to see my audience grow. People were not only following me but also engaging with my content. They started to share their own travel experiences, ask for recommendations, and express interest in the trips I was planning. This engagement was invaluable—it wasn’t just about numbers; it was about building a community of travelers who were excited to be part of what I was creating.
As my audience grew, I started using social media to promote specific trips. I created targeted ads, shared client testimonials, and used features like Instagram Stories and Facebook Groups to create a sense of exclusivity and excitement around my offerings. These efforts paid off—my trips began to sell out, and word of mouth started to spread. Clients who had traveled with me would share their experiences on their own social media accounts, bringing even more attention to Vacation Envy International.
One of the most powerful tools I used was user-generated content. I encouraged my clients to share photos and stories from their trips, which I would then repost on my channels. This not only provided authentic testimonials but also made my clients feel like they were part of the brand’s story.
For anyone just beginning to build their social media presence, here are a few key pieces of advice:
Be Authentic: People are drawn to authenticity. Share your passion, your story, and your unique perspective. Don’t try to be like everyone else—be yourself, and let that shine through in your content.
Consistency is Key: Post regularly, and make sure your content is high quality. Consistency helps build trust with your audience and keeps them engaged.
Engage, Don’t Just Broadcast: Social media is a two-way street. Don’t just post and walk away—engage with your audience. Respond to comments, ask questions, and show genuine interest in what your followers have to say.
Tell a Story: People love stories. Whether it’s the story behind your brand, a client’s travel experience, or the history of a destination, storytelling is a powerful way to connect with your audience.
Leverage User-Generated Content: Encourage your followers and clients to share their experiences with your brand. Reposting their content not only provides social proof but also makes your audience feel valued and involved.
Be Patient and Persistent: Building an audience takes time. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t see immediate results. Stay focused, keep refining your strategy, and remember that growth is a journey, not a race.
Building Vacation Envy International through social media has been an incredible journey. It’s allowed me to connect with so many amazing people, share my love for travel, and grow a business that I’m truly passionate about. For anyone starting out, know that with dedication, authenticity, and a clear vision, social media can be a powerful tool to build not just a following, but a thriving community.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.vacationenvyintl.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vacationenvyforus
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/VacationEnvyInternational
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbZuILBhjsHMqACKzcc7Ug
- Other: https://www.zoominfo.com/c/vacation-envy-international-llc/469160441
Image Credits
Vacation Envy International