TravelMax named Best Travel Business in Northern Ireland at 2025 TTNG Awards

(L-R) Savannah Bracewell (Travelmax Sales, Media & Marketing Manager), Maxine Bracewell (Travelmax Founder & Owner), Ionela​​​​ Dinu‑Mihai (TTNG), Marcus Bracewell (Travelmax Sports Manager), and Stephanie Slark - (TTNG).

Local family-run travel company Travelmax.co.uk has been officially crowned Best Travel Business in Northern Ireland at the 2025 TTNG Awards, in recognition of its outstanding customer service, innovation, and dedication to the travel industry.

The prestigious awards ceremony was held on Monday 30th June in the historic Palace of Parliament in Bucharest, Romania, and brought together the UK and Ireland’s leading independent travel agencies.

Organised by The Travel Network Group (TTNG), the annual event celebrates excellence across the travel trade, honouring businesses that demonstrate a commitment to high-quality service and strong client relationships.

(L-R) Maxine Bracewell (Travelmax Founder & Owner), Marcus Bracewell (Travelmax Sports Manager), and Savannah Bracewell (Travelmax Sales, Media & Marketing Manager), outside the historic Palace of Parliament in Bucharest, Romania

Maxine Bracewell, Travelmax, founder and owner

Founded in 2001 by respected Ballymena entrepreneur Maxine Bracewell, Travelmax was created with a pioneering vision—to combine the convenience of an online travel agency with the personal touch of a local retail office.

From its humble beginnings, the business has flourished into one of Northern Ireland’s most trusted names in bespoke travel, offering tailor-made holidays and 100% financial protection on every booking.

“We are truly honoured,” said Maxine. “This award is a testament to our team’s unwavering dedication and the incredible trust our clients place in us to bring their travel dreams to life.”

WINNER: TravelMax, Best Travel Business, Northern Ireland 2025

With over 160 years of combined travel industry experience, the Travelmax team is known for its attention to detail, product knowledge, and friendly, client-focused approach. The company is fully licensed as both a Travel Agent and a Tour Operator, ensuring complete peace of mind for its customers.

Now a multigenerational business, Maxine’s daughter Savannah Bracewell plays a key leadership role as Head of Sales, Media, and Marketing, helping drive the company’s continued growth and online presence.

Under Savannah’s guidance, Travelmax has significantly expanded its digital reach, with its engaging travel videos and social content attracting over 16.65 million views across platforms.

(L-R) Marcus Bracewell (Travelmax Sports Manager), Savannah Bracewell (Travelmax Sales, Media & Marketing Manager), and Maxine Bracewell (Travelmax Founder & Owner)

“It’s been an incredible journey through some very challenging times,” Maxine added. “This recognition belongs to our loyal clients and the hardworking Travelmax team who’ve supported me from day one.”

Innovation, trust, and experience at the core

Travelmax is not just a booking agency—it’s a destination specialist. Staff frequently travel to the locations they recommend, offering genuine insights and trusted advice based on first-hand experience.

Whether it’s a luxury honeymoon, a bespoke family adventure, or a once-in-a-lifetime cruise, every holiday is tailored with precision and care.

This hands-on expertise, combined with a strong community connection, has been key to Travelmax’s reputation for reliability and service excellence.

TravelMax, Linenhall Street, Ballymena

The business has become a go-to choice for customers seeking value without compromise, backed by a team that prioritises honesty, safety, and memorable experiences.

“We believe that travel is about more than just booking flights and hotels—it’s about creating memories that last a lifetime,” said Savannah Bracewell. “We take pride in listening to our clients and delivering a truly personalised experience from start to finish.”

National recognition for a Ballymena business

The TTNG Award represents a major achievement not only for Travelmax, but for the local business community in Ballymena and Northern Ireland more broadly. In an industry increasingly dominated by online-only operators, Travelmax’s success proves that personalised service, local expertise, and strong relationships still matter.

As the demand for tailor-made travel continues to rise, Travelmax’s blend of traditional customer care with modern digital engagement puts it in a strong position for continued success.

Pictured (L-R), Colleen Gribbin (Accounts Manager), Claire Martin (Senior Travel Specialist), Leon Bracewell, Savannah, Marcus, Maxine and husband Simon Bracewell.

The Bracewell family, along with both Colleen and Claire, who have been with TravelMax for 24 years, will be happy to help you plan your next getaway.

For more information or to plan your next trip, you can contact the award-winning Travelmax team on 028 2565 4477 or visit www.travelmax.co.uk.