Navan Travel has won the ITAA Travel Agency (Under 10 Employees) at the Irish Travel Industry Awards, having previously won in 2015.
Navan Travel stands as a shining example of the enduring value of expert, face-to-face advice. This independent, family-run agency, based in the heart of County Meath, has built a loyal following through its commitment to tailored holidays and exceptional customer care.
Established in 1972 by Martin Skelly, Navan Travel is a 100% Irish-owned enterprise with deep roots in the local community. Operating from its premises in Navan, the agency employs a small, dedicated team that prides itself on personal relationships with clients. Its activities centre on crafting bespoke holidays for individuals, couples, families, and groups, drawing on longstanding partnerships with tour operators, airlines, and hotels worldwide The company has become oes of Ireland’s leading walking specialists with its brand Uwalk.ie. .
In the Irish market, Navan Travel excels in several key areas. Package holidays form a cornerstone of its business, with popular destinations including Spain, Portugal, Turkey, and Greece for summer sunseekers. The agency also specialises in ski holidays to the Alps, walking tours, notably along the Camino de Santiago through its affiliated Uwalk brand, and family-friendly trips to theme parks or Lapland for festive experiences. Cruise bookings have grown significantly, reflecting Ireland’s rising interest in multi-destination voyages. Clients appreciate the agency’s ability to secure competitive pricing, flexible payment options, and added perks like free upgrades or excursions, often unavailable through generic online platforms.
As a longstanding Navan business, the agency supports local events and charities, reinforcing its role as a pillar of the town. Membership in the Irish Travel Agents Association (ITAA) and Worldchoice ensures clients benefit from financial protection under the Irish Aviation Authority’s licensing regime, providing peace of mind in an uncertain world.
Challenges abound for small agencies, from competition with global online giants to rising operational costs. Yet Navan Travel’s resilience shines through its adaptability, investing in digital tools for easier browsing while preserving the human element that clients cherish. As Ireland’s outbound travel continues to flourish, with strong demand for personalised packages, the agency is well-positioned to grow.
In an era of automated bookings, Navan Travel reminds us that travel is about stories, not just transactions. Its award-winning focus on individual journeys ensures it remains a trusted name for Irish holidaymakers seeking more than a standard package.
2026 awards
Previous winners
