Dream Vacations Only Travel Franchise Named a Game Changer by Franchise Dictionary Magazine

Dream Vacations Only Travel Franchise Named a Game Changer by Franchise Dictionary Magazine

More than 100 franchise brands across all industries recognized 

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (December 12, 2019) – Dream Vacations was recently the only travel agency franchise named to Franchise Dictionary magazine’s annual Game Changers list. More than 100 franchises are included on this list of dynamic corporations that are creating business opportunities for entrepreneurs.    

Game Changers are extraordinary brands that are changing the landscape for small business owners. They fill a niche in the market, help the community, turn heads with a unique product, impact veterans and impress millennials.

“We pride ourselves on being risk takers, early adopters and innovators, and to be recognized as the only travel franchise on the Game Changer list, is just icing on the cake,” said Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager of Dream Vacations. “We are honored to be listed alongside so many other prestigious organizations.”

Dream Vacations was recognized for being a trailblazer in the travel agent franchise industry for being the first to have a name that reflects what it sells – vacation experiences. As the best travel agency franchise opportunity, travel agents are given the resources to plan and create seamless vacation experiences for their customers while offering the greatest value.

Daly adds, “The response has been overwhelmingly positive since we launched Dream Vacations in 2016 as the sister brand to CruiseOne.”

Those passionate about travel with an entrepreneurial spirit who would like to be part of a travel agency network that cares more about its agents and travelers, should visit www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com or call 888-249-8235 to learn about franchising with Dream Vacations. 

About Dream Vacations
Travel agents with the top-ranked home-based travel agency franchise Dream Vacations have the resources to plan and create seamless vacation experiences for their customers while offering the best value. A member of the International Franchise Association, Dream Vacations is part of World Travel Holdings and has received partner of the year, a top-ranking status, by all the major cruise lines as well as national recognition for its support of military veterans. For more information about Dream Vacations, visit www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com. Like Dream Vacations on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DreamVacationsFranchise, follow on Twitter at @Dream_Franchise and watch its videos at http://www.youtube.com/DreamVacationsBusiness.

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Villas of Distinction® Expands its Villa Inventory throughout Italy

Villas of Distinction® Expands its Villa Inventory throughout Italy

The luxury villas added are in some of the most sought-after regions in Italy including Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, Sicily and Venice

 Wilmington, Mass. (December 4, 2019) – In 2018, Italy welcomed 14.5 million U.S. visitors according to the Italian National Institute of Statistics. Villas of Distinction®, the world’s premier luxury villa rental company as part of World Travel Holdings, is also seeing an uptick in travel to Italy and announced today that it has recently added villas throughout the country to its already robust portfolio.

“Our bookings to Italy continue to increase year-after-year,” said Willie Fernandez, general manager and vice president for Villas of Distinction. “With Italy’s surge in popularity, we want to ensure that we are offering a wide array of villa options in some of the sought-after destinations.”

According to the 2019 Italian Enogastronomic Tourism Report, tourists are interested in themed experiences including visits and tastings in wine cellars; breweries and mills; food and wine festivals; social eating; and cooking classes.

Wellness and golf are also popular travel trends in Italy. The Global Wellness Institute estimates that wellness tourism grew into a $639 billion market in 2017, and that number continues to rise. With more than 250 golf clubs in Italy, it is a hot spot for those seeking a vacation centered on the game of golf. Visitors are looking for rejuvenating vacations and local businesses are catering to travelers who’ve already seen the likes of Rome, Florence and Venice, and want to escape the high-traffic tourist areas for a more authentic, relaxing experience of Italian life.

“We pride ourselves in offering a full-service villa vacation planning experience,” said Steve Lassman, vice president of villa product and agency relations for Villas of Distinction. “In addition to booking the villa, every guest receives a personal concierge that fully-customizes the experience based on the guest’s vacation desires. From arranging cooking classes in the villa with a private chef and booking a private suite at Italy’s most popular horse race – Palio di Siena to booking golf tee times and spa services, our concierges go above and beyond in creating experiences so that our guests can truly immerse themselves in the destination.”

Villas of Distinction’s Italy-based concierge team provides guests firsthand knowledge on the finest and most authentic Italian experiences – truly immersing them in Italy’s culture. In addition, many of Villas of Distinction’s Italy villas are staffed with premier Italian chefs who provide guests a taste of Italian cuisine.

Here are the villas in Italy that have been added to the Villas of Distinction portfolio:

 

 

Tuscany
Distinta
Cardinale
Rovea
Carista
Hortus

Amalfi Coast
Carmana
Litodora
Sicily
Aieri
Delphina

Venice

Doge

 

To learn more about a vacation to Italy and these newly added luxury villas offered through Villas of Distinction, visit VillasofDistinction.com or to book a villa vacation, call 1-800-289-0900.

About Villas of Distinction®
Villas of Distinction®, as part of World Travel Holdings, is an award-winning, full-service premier luxury villa provider with an extensive portfolio of thousands of privately-owned villas in more than 50 luxurious destinations including the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, Europe, Central America, the Continental United States and many private islands. Most villas feature private pools, butlers, maids and chefs. The luxury provider has gained its guests’ trust by ensuring every villa meets strict standards so that each home exceeds the guest’s expectations. For more than 25 years, Villas of Distinction’s team of experts have made vacation planning effortless by helping travelers find their perfect vacation home, and creating one-of-a-kind getaways and lasting memories at the world’s top villas. www.VillasofDistinction.com.

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CruisesOnly® Extends Cyber Week Sale with Exclusive Travel Tuesday Offers

CruisesOnly® Extends Cyber Week Sale with Exclusive Travel Tuesday Offers

Customers who book through CruisesOnly can choose double cash on mainstream cruise lines, or 50 percent more on luxury and river lines   

Wilmington, Mass. (November 27, 2019) – There is good news for people who don’t want to fight the crowds in stores on Black Friday or who get caught up surfing the web on Cyber Monday and forget to snag a travel deal — travelers can still get hot cruise deals on Travel Tuesday. The first cruise agency to ever participate in Travel Tuesday, CruisesOnly, is offering “double cash” or “50 percent more” to its promotional offers for cruise bookings made December 3-4, 2019. What’s even better, no deposit is required on these bookings.

For most mainstream cruise lines, customers can choose one of these perks — up to $2,000 Cash Back, up to a $1,500 Amazon Gift Card or an up to $1,500 onboard spending credit (double the standard amount). For many luxury cruise lines and river cruises, customers have a choice of 50 percent more for onboard spending or 50 percent more travel credit which is applied to the booking after the cruise. Perk options offered are based on cruise line.

“We are always looking for new ways to deliver remarkable experiences to our customers and after the biggest shopping weekend of the year, people are going to need a vacation,” said Rosemarie Reed, senior vice president of marketing for CruisesOnly. “By participating in Travel Tuesday, our customers can skip the holiday rush and still enjoy special savings and offers.”

Travel agents with CruisesOnly, America’s Largest Cruise Agency, have access to exclusive offers as a result of its affiliation with World Travel Holdings, the nation’s largest cruise agency and award-winning leisure travel company. CruisesOnly’s team of travel professionals are highly trained and knowledgeable to assist in planning complex cruise vacations and matching customers to the right vacation experience.

To book your next cruise adventure and take advantage of these offers or for terms and conditions about these offers, please visit CruisesOnly.com or call 1-800-CRUISES (1-800-278-4737).

About CruisesOnly®
CruisesOnly® is America’s Largest Cruise Agency and the leading cruise brand of World Travel Holdings offering huge savings on brand-name cruises. Since 1984, CruisesOnly has offered travelers the very best in value and service by carefully matching each customer with their ideal cruise vacation. The agency’s website features an extensive selection of sailings aboard the world’s top cruise lines, plus in-depth information about each ship and a wealth of both customer and expert reviews. Users can compare prices for interior, oceanview, balcony, and suite accommodations at a glance, then book online or by telephone 24/7/365 with the assistance of highly qualified agents. CruisesOnly also offers customers both a Best Price Guarantee and a Satisfaction Guarantee with every booking.

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Debbie Fiorino Named a Power Woman by Moves Magazine

Debbie Fiorino Named a Power Woman by Moves Magazine

Fiorino, Chief Operating Officer for Dream Vacations, CruiseOne®, Cruises Inc.®, one of 25 influential women recognized for driving social change 

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (November 19, 2019) – Dream Vacations, CruiseOne® and Cruises Inc.® Chief Operating Officer Debbie Fiorino was recently named a Power Woman by Moves magazine at its 16th annual Moves Power Women Gala in New York, which was hosted by Emmy-winning news anchor and former Power Woman Sukanya Krishnan. This event honors and celebrates women who embody the magazine’s commitment to women’s rights, social fairness and equality. 

Honorees are considered to be influencers unafraid to stand up for their beliefs, yet are compassionate by nature; dedicated to making a difference in the lives of others and in society; demonstrate leadership; and seen as a role model for future women leaders. They are selected from a broad spectrum of industries – from Hollywood to the boardroom to paving the way for females in the military and in the newsroom. Fiorino was one of 25 honorees and she shared the spotlight with Academy Award nominee actress Helena Bonham Carter; Critics’ Choice Television Award Winner Bellamy Young; the first female fighter pilot in the U.S. Air Force Major General Jeannie Leavitt; and Celebrity Cruises’ Captain Kate McCue, the first American female U.S. cruise liner captain; among others. Past travel industry award winners include Christine Duffy, Carnival Cruise Line and Lisa Lutoff-Perlo, Celebrity Cruises, who both won in 2016.

“To be recognized alongside these world-renown influential women has been a surreal experience,” said Fiorino. “Becoming a travel agent with Dream Vacations, CruiseOne or Cruises Inc. empowers women to take control of their destiny and have a career in an industry they are passionate about. It provides the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others by opening the world through dream vacation experiences.” 

Fiorino was honored for her leadership and contributions to making entrepreneurial dreams come true for women within the travel agent industry. A dynamic leader who excels at delivering results and driving change. Under her leadership, Dream Vacations, CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. comprise the fastest-growing cruise division in North America within parent company World Travel Holdings. Not afraid to take risks, Fiorino immersed herself in all areas of the business, helping others realize their full potential, challenging what once was and making sacrifices along the way to transform this area of business.

The companies are looking for individuals who are passionate about travel with an entrepreneurial spirit who would like to be part of a travel agency network that cares more about its agents and travelers. For more information on joining these award-winning agencies, please visit www.dreamvacationsfranchise.com to learn more about owning a CruiseOne / Dream Vacations travel franchise, and visit www.sellcruises.com to learn more about the Cruises Inc. business opportunity. 

About Dream Vacations, CruiseOne® and Cruises Inc.®
Dream Vacations, CruiseOne® and Cruises Inc.® are part of World Travel Holdings, the nation’s largest cruise agency and award-winning leisure travel company. The Dream Vacations and CruiseOne franchise opportunities give entrepreneurs a choice in how they want to brand their travel business, and Cruises Inc. is an independent business opportunity. Both business models provide a work-from-home opportunity to those interested in selling all types of travel experiences whether it be a cruise, resort stay or land tour. With a mission of delivering a remarkable experience, travel agents with all three brands are given premium resources to plan and create a seamless vacation experience for the customer while offering the best value. For more information on Dream Vacations and CruiseOne, visit www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com, like the Facebook page www.facebook.com/DreamVacationsFranchise, follow on Twitter at @Dream_Franchise or watch its videos at www.youtube.com/DreamVacationsBusiness. For more information on Cruises Inc., visit www.SellCruises.com and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SellCruises.

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In Celebration of Veteran’s Day, Dream Vacations, CruiseOne® and Cruises Inc.® Expands Support of Military Community with Launch of Command Center

In Celebration of Veteran’s Day, Dream Vacations, CruiseOne® and Cruises Inc.® Expands Support of Military Community with Launch of Command Center

Entrepreneur magazine ranks Dream Vacations #1 franchise for veterans as a result of programs like this 

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (November 8, 2019) – On this Veteran’s Day and every day throughout the year, Dream Vacations, CruiseOne® and Cruises Inc. ® proudly salutes the military community and Dream Vacations is consistently recognized as a veteran-friendly franchise for its support of veterans and their families. This year’s celebration is extra special as Dream Vacations, CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. announces the launch of the Command Center, an internal portal with military resources, as well as its recent number one ranking as the Top Franchise for Veterans by Entrepreneur magazine.

“Supporting the military community is in our DNA and is part of what makes our franchise stand out,” said Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager of Dream Vacations, CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. “Our vast range of benefits for veterans purchasing a franchise and our support have grown leaps and bounds over the years and as a result, nearly 35 percent of our network are veterans, which is more than double the national average.”

The Command Center takes a two-prong approach with a focus on agents of all backgrounds looking to support the military and gain military clientele, as well as on veteran-owned businesses that have past service records and seek assets for their marketing efforts. The Command Center serves as the hub for everything military-related from discounts, reward programs and marketing assets to educational tools, special dates that should be observed to honor the military, and valuable information to assist those who have and are serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.

“The Command Center is one of the best business marketing and resource pages I have ever seen in a corporate organization,” said Army First Sergeant Grant Springer, Dream Vacations franchise owner and vacation specialist in Alexandria, Va. “It is a well-organized list of basic information and helpful links that our entire network, both veterans and non-veterans, can turn to whenever they have a specific content need. The creativity, research, effort, professionalism and compassion the World Travel Holdings’ team put into this project truly shows in the design and functionality of the webpage.”

The Entrepreneur magazine ranking is based on incentives for veterans, how franchisors attract and support veterans, and the franchisor’s score in the Entrepreneur 2019 Franchise 500. Other recent number one rankings include Military Times and Forbes. Additional recognitions include inclusion on G.I. Jobs annual “Hot Franchises for Veterans,” US Veterans magazine’s “Top Veteran-Friendly Companies”, USA Today’s “50 Top Franchises for Military Veterans” and recognition by MSC Cruises in its Seaside Salute Award. Dream Vacations is the only travel franchise to receive a 5 STAR ranking from VetFran, a strategic initiative of the International Franchise Association.

“Upon retiring from the military I wasn’t sure what direction my life would take, but after learning about Dream Vacations’ support of the military, coupled with my own personal love of travel, joining Dream Vacations seemed to be the perfect opportunity for me and my family,” said U.S. Army MSG (Retired) Mike Hanlon, Dream Vacations franchise owner and vacation specialist in Wilmington, N.C. and 2019 Ambassador of Veteran Affairs. “During our most recent National Conference, we hosted a meetup for former and current military members of all branches to discuss our service and how special it is to be involved with such a military-friendly organization. These conversations re-affirmed my decision to join Dream Vacations and I look forward to giving back to active service members and veterans alike in my role as Ambassador of Veteran Affairs.”

All military veterans and Gold Star families who purchase a Dream Vacations or CruiseOne travel agency business receive an enlistment package valued at no less than $5,000 and ongoing support. They can select one of four perks currently being offered — $2,000 travel training credit; receive up to $7,000 back based on initial fee through the Earn Back promotion; waived administrative fees valued at $1,350; or a Microsoft® Surface Pro tablet valued at $1,000. All veterans and Gold Star families receive a waived training fee for a business partner and the ability to hire active-duty military spouses and veterans as associates at a discount. Additional veteran incentives include the ability to move residences and stay in business, travel discounts for military customers and access to veteran networking groups.

Military veterans who are passionate about travel with an entrepreneurial spirit who would like to be part of a travel agency network that cares more about its agents, travelers and military veterans, should visit www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com or call 888-249-8235 to learn about franchising with Dream Vacations and CruiseOne. Visit www.sellcruises.com or call 888-462-4992 to learn more about the Cruises Inc. business opportunity.

About Dream Vacations, CruiseOne® and Cruises Inc.®
Dream Vacations, CruiseOne® and Cruises Inc.® are part of World Travel Holdings, the nation’s largest cruise agency and award-winning leisure travel company. The Dream Vacations and CruiseOne franchise opportunities give entrepreneurs a choice in how they want to brand their travel business, and Cruises Inc. is an independent business opportunity. Both business models provide a work-from-home opportunity to those interested in selling all types of travel experiences whether it be a cruise, resort stay or land tour. With a mission of delivering a remarkable experience, travel agents with all three brands are given premium resources to plan and create a seamless vacation experience for the customer while offering the best value. For more information on Dream Vacations and CruiseOne, visit www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com, like the Facebook page www.facebook.com/DreamVacationsFranchise, follow on Twitter at @Dream_Franchise or watch its videos at www.youtube.com/DreamVacationsBusiness. For more information on Cruises Inc., visit www.SellCruises.com and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SellCruises.

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Villas of Distinction® Announces Partnership with Caesars Palace Las Vegas and Nobu Hotel Caesars Palace

Villas of Distinction® Announces Partnership with Caesars Palace Las Vegas and Nobu Hotel Caesars Palace

Premier villa rental company to offer these luxury accommodations in one of the most sought-after destinations, Las Vegas 

Wilmington, Mass. (November 5, 2019)Villas of Distinction®, the world’s premier luxury villa rental company as part of World Travel Holdings, announced today that it has rights to sell luxury villas at the famed Caesars Palace Las Vegas and Nobu Hotel Caesars Palace.

“It is an honor to have been selected as the villa company to work with Caesars Entertainment Corporation,” said Willie Fernandez, general manager and vice president for Villas of Distinction. “We are constantly looking to offer our guests the finest in accommodations and service in the most in-demand destinations, and securing the rights to sell these luxury accommodations is just one way we are delivering on this promise.”

Rarely seen by the public, the sprawling villas at Caesars Palace feature imported marble floors, private elevators, hand-painted wall murals and more, along with amenities such as around-the-clock butlers and roundtrip airport limo service. The Marcus Aurelius Villa and the Titus Villa at Caesars Palace are currently available for booking on VillasofDistinction.com, with more options to be added soon. With a Spanish design theme, the 9,500-square-foot Marcus Aurelius Villa offers three bedrooms and various over-the-top amenities including an exotic fish tank, a double-sided fireplace, grand piano, billiard room, a media room with theater-style seating and massage chairs and private terrace with a whirlpool spa and fire pit. The larger, 11,200-square-foot Titus Villa features a British design theme with a private outdoor garden offering a 390-square-foot pool, fire pit and direct access to the Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis. Additional standout highlights include massage chairs in the media room, a billiard room with a bar, an integrated audio/visual system and grand piano – making it the perfect villa for entertaining.

“Known worldwide for its collection of opulent villas, which have hosted some of the world’s most discriminating guests including celebrities, dignitaries and royalty, Caesars Palace has partnered with Villas of Distinction to sell these luxury accommodations,” said Annette Weishaar, senior vice president of partnerships and channel marketing for Caesars Entertainment. “Through this partnership, luxury travelers can enjoy lavish suites and villas with elevated service and customized experiences at the center of the Las Vegas Strip.”

Also available on the site, the two-story Nobu Penthouse and $35,000-per-night Nobu Villa at the Nobu Hotel Caesars Palace offer spacious accommodations with a modern Japanese-inspired design by the Rockwell Group. Ranging from 2,200 to 4,350 square feet with the option of connecting up to five bedrooms, the Nobu Penthouse features a curved staircase with a second-story terrace, a stone hearth wall, sleek furnishings, a 90-inch flat screen TV, a billiard table and a separate dining area. A celebrity favorite, the 10,300-square-foot Nobu Villa offers three bedrooms and unsurpassed views of Las Vegas Boulevard. The villa’s rooftop terrace features a full barbeque pit with Robatayaki grill, zen garden and Japanese-inspired onsen tub, while the master bedroom includes a private massage room, sauna and elevated round soaking tub. In addition to around-the-clock butler and roundtrip airport transportation, guests can lavish in exclusive Nobu Hotel amenities including VIP check-in, priority seating at Nobu Restaurant and access to Chef Nobu Matsuhisa’s 24-hour in-room dining menu.

“Caesars Entertainment truly embodies the best of Las Vegas,” said Steve Lassman, vice president of villa product and agency relations for Villas of Distinction. “Caesars is the best-in-class when it comes to entertainment, service, restaurants and luxury villas, and we are excited to bring our guests this amazing vacation experience. From dining, casinos, shows and nightlife to golf, shopping, spas and more, Las Vegas is the epicenter of entertainment and now we are part of the action.”

Villas of Distinction will also be the luxury villa rental company to offer villas at Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai, coming to the site toward the end of 2019, beginning of 2020.

To learn more about these newly added luxury villas offered through Villas of Distinction, visit VillasofDistinction.com or to book a villa vacation, call 1-800-289-0900.

About Villas of Distinction®
Villas of Distinction®, as part of World Travel Holdings, is an award-winning, full-service premier luxury villa provider with an extensive portfolio of thousands of privately-owned villas in more than 50 luxurious destinations including the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, Europe, Central America, the Continental United States and many private islands. Most villas feature private pools, butlers, maids and chefs. The luxury provider has gained its clients’ trust by ensuring every villa meets strict standards so that each home exceeds the guest’s expectations. For more than 25 years, Villas of Distinction’s team of experts have made vacation planning effortless by helping travelers find their perfect vacation home, and creating one-of-a-kind getaways and lasting memories at the world’s top villas. www.VillasofDistinction.com.

About Caesars Palace
World-renowned Las Vegas resort and a Top 10 “Best U.S. Casino” by USA TODAY 10BEST Readers’ Choice, Caesars Palace features 3,980 hotel guest rooms and suites, including the all-new Palace Tower featuring 10 new luxury villas, the 182-room Nobu Hotel Caesars Palace and Forbes Star Award-winning The Laurel Collection by Caesars Palace. The 85-acre resort offers diverse dining options from the award-winning Bacchanal Buffet, to celebrity chef-branded restaurants, including the newest additions Gordon Ramsay HELL’S KITCHEN and from Giada De Laurentiis, Pronto by Giada, as well as Bobby Flay’s Mesa Grill, one of Nobu Matsuhisa’s largest Nobu Restaurant and Lounge, Restaurant Guy Savoy and MR CHOW. From restauranteur and television star Lisa Vanderpump, Vanderpump Cocktail Garden is the resort’s newest hot spot, featuring craft cocktails, small bites and of course, Rosé. The resort also features nearly 130,000 square feet of casino space, including a recently renovated race and sports book boasting the largest screen on the Strip at 138 ft., a five-acre Garden of the Gods Pool Oasis, the luxurious Qua Baths & Spa, COLOR Salon by celebrity hairstylist Michael Boychuck, five wedding chapels and gardens, and the 75,000-square-foot OMNIA Nightclub with the top DJs such as Calvin Harris, Martin Garrix and Zedd. The 4,300-seat Colosseum, Billboard Magazine’s “Venue of the Decade: 2000 – 2009,” spotlights world-class entertainers including Sting, Rod Stewart, Reba, Brooks & Dunn, Jerry Seinfeld and Mariah Carey. The Forum Shops at Caesars Palace showcases more than 160 boutiques and restaurants. Caesars Palace is operated by a subsidiary of Caesars Entertainment Corporation (NASDAQ: CZR). For more information, please visit caesarspalace.com or the Caesars Entertainment Las Vegas media room. Find Caesars Palace on Facebook and follow on Twitter and Instagram.

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Dream Vacations, CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. Win Seven 2019 Travel Weekly Magellan Awards

Dream Vacations, CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. Win Seven 2019 Travel Weekly Magellan Awards

Innovative Marketing, Training and Technology Programs Recognized with Gold and Silver 

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (October 10, 2019) – The B2B division of award-winning leisure travel company World Travel Holdings has been recognized again this year by Travel Weekly. Dream Vacations, CruiseOne® and Cruises Inc.® further differentiated themselves from the competition as the best travel agency franchise and business opportunity when they received top honors for innovative marketing, engaging training and groundbreaking technology.

“We have the best team in travel creating and designing diverse programs to support our agents’ success and the variety of categories we were recognized in validates this,” said Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager of Dream Vacations/CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. “The Magellan Awards represent the best of the best in the industry and it is an honor to be recognized among the elite.” 

Gold Winners

Charleston Cruise & Travel Show – As part of the Dream Vacations Road Show series, we created a travel show unlike any other where attendees could not only book travel and speak with suppliers and agents, but also recreate vacation experiences. What’s more, the event kicked off with a ceremonial ribbon cutting featuring local councilmembers; representation from the South Carolina Ports Authority; and reality TV Stars Shep Rose and Captain Lee Rosbach, who were invited as social media influencers.

Immersive Educational Series takes a personal and hands-on approach to training Dream Vacations, CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. travel agents about niche topics – river, luxury, groups and land. More than 400 agents attended these intimate trainings in 2019.

Group Registration Payment makes it possible for travel agents with Dream Vacations/CruiseOne to accept credit card payments within our existing online groups registration platform. This tool empowers travel agents to create and customize professional group event websites that showcase amenity options, highlight itineraries, outlines payment schedules and accepts secure payments during the initial registration process. The ability for travel agents to capture initial booking information any time of day, coupled with a consumer having the ability to choose how much they want their initial payment to be and each passenger in a cabin having the option of paying together or individually adds flexibility for both the Dream Vacations/CruiseOne agency and the client.

Silver Winners

The 2019 Luxury Brochure was a direct mail piece designed completely in-house in an innovative style that exudes luxury and does not look like a typical cruise brochure. This aspirational marketing piece uses storytelling, unexpected imagery, varnishes and textures to symbolize how special and unique a luxury vacation experience is.

Vacation Magazine is a high-quality publication that inspires readers to travel to new destinations and experience different cruise lines. With a different theme each issue, it includes articles about travel trends, industry news, cruise news and destination highlights. Messaging about the benefits of using a travel agent are sprinkled in throughout the magazine.

Promo Websites for DreamVacations.com, CruiseOne.com and CruisesInc.com clearly illustrates complex pricing and promotions down to the most basic level in an easy-to-use system, making it a valuable resource for travelers and travel agents. These websites give consumers the confidence to take their bookings into their own hands without being detached from a travel agent. People can book a cruise on our websites and have comfort in knowing they have a travel agent as an advocate.

Dream Vacations, CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. have leveraged strategic partnerships with four consumer brands that have national audience of qualified clientele who are likely to travel or book a vacation — online wine retailer Wine.com, high-end luggage outfitter Tumi, Swarovski crystals and travel apparel line Beyond Proper. Using reciprocal marketing, Dream Vacations, CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. gain national exposure to new clients, while existing customers are introduced to other desirable brands and memorable life-affirming experiences. These partnerships are being leveraged through consumer promotions to offer more value and perks to enhance client’s vacations and lifestyle, as well as provide agent incentives.

The Magellan Awards are judged and overseen by a one-of-a-kind panel of top travel professionals representing the best names and most accomplished leaders from the industry. In determining winners, entries do not compete with one another, instead they are judged against a standard of excellence based on the long experience of Travel Weekly. To uphold this high standard of excellence, a category may have multiple winners, or may have no winners at all.

The Magellan Awards honor outstanding design, marketing and services in a broad range of industry segments including Hospitality, Travel Destinations, Cruise Lines, Online Travel Services, Airlines and Airports, Travel Agents and Agencies, Tour Operators and Ground Transportation. 

Those who are passionate about travel with an entrepreneurial spirit who would like to be part of a travel agency network that cares more about its agents and travelers, should visit www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com to learn about franchising with Dream Vacations and CruiseOne, and www.SellCruises.com to learn about becoming an independent vacation specialist with business opportunity Cruises Inc.

About Dream Vacations, CruiseOne® and Cruises Inc.®
Dream Vacations, CruiseOne® and Cruises Inc.® are part of World Travel Holdings, the nation’s largest cruise agency and award-winning leisure travel company. The Dream Vacations and CruiseOne franchise opportunities give entrepreneurs a choice in how they want to brand their travel business, and Cruises Inc. is an independent business opportunity. Both business models provide a work-from-home opportunity to those interested in selling all types of travel experiences whether it be a cruise, resort stay or land tour. With a mission of delivering a remarkable experience, travel agents with all three brands are given premium resources to plan and create a seamless vacation experience for the customer while offering the best value. For more information on Dream Vacations and CruiseOne, visit www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com, like the Facebook page www.facebook.com/DreamVacationsFranchise, follow on Twitter at @Dream_Franchise or watch its videos at www.youtube.com/DreamVacationsBusiness. For more information on Cruises Inc., visit www.SellCruises.com and become a fan on Facebook at www.facebook.com/SellCruises.

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Dream Vacations/CruiseOne’s Chief Operating Officer Debbie Fiorino Named “Woman Of Wonder” By Franchise Dictionary Magazine

Dream Vacations/CruiseOne’s Chief Operating Officer Debbie Fiorino Named “Woman Of Wonder” By Franchise Dictionary Magazine

 Fiorino one of 50 franchising executives recognized 

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (October 3, 2019) – Dream Vacations/CruiseOne’s Chief Operating Officer Debbie Fiorino was recently named a “Woman of Wonder” by Franchise Dictionary magazine for changing the face of the franchise industry. Fifty prominent business leaders were recognized in this first-ever award from the franchising publication.  

“Women of Wonder” are considered remarkable female franchisors who are making a positive impact on their brands. They empower other women to succeed, help others with their business, fill a niche in the market that benefits families and other women, are business disrupters and inspire others to make change.

“I am honored to be included on this list of visionary women who are making business dreams become reality for women all over the world,” said Fiorino. “I am so proud to represent Dream Vacations/CruiseOne and our incredible travel professionals, and I thank my team at our corporate headquarters who make my job easy by caring more and delivering remarkable experiences to our customers, partners and each other.” 

Fiorino was recognized for the engagement-focused culture shift that she instilled within Dream Vacations/CruiseOne. She inspired employees to create a culture of caring and recognize that the organization’s ultimate customers are its franchisees, and her focus on engagement has resulted in industry-leading satisfaction survey results year-after-year. Under her leadership, her accomplishments include launching Dream Vacations; celebrating women franchisees with the OPAL Award; increased support of military families and spouses; and more. Fiorino is renowned for being a respected leader because she takes risks, is innovative, produces results, engages with all, and leads with transparency and care. 

Those passionate about travel with an entrepreneurial spirit who would like to be part of a travel agency network that cares more about its agents and travelers, should visit www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com or call 888-249-8235 to learn about franchising with Dream Vacations/CruiseOne. 

About Dream Vacations/ CruiseOne®
A member of the International Franchise Association, the top-ranked home-based travel agency franchise CruiseOne® has been in operation since 1992, and its sister brand Dream Vacations launched in April 2016, giving franchisees a choice in how they want to brand their travel business. Dream Vacations/CruiseOne franchisees have the resources to plan and create seamless vacation experiences for their customers while offering the best value. Dream Vacations/CruiseOne is part of World Travel Holdings and has received partner of the year, a top-ranking status, by all the major cruise lines as well as national recognition for its support of military veterans. For more information, visit www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com. Like CruiseOne / Dream Vacations on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DreamVacationsFranchise, follow on Twitter at @Dream_Franchise and watch its videos at www.youtube.com/DreamVacationsBusiness.

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RCI, The Global Leader In Vacation Exchange, Selects World Travel Holdings As New Private-Label Cruise Partner

RCI, The Global Leader In Vacation Exchange, Selects World Travel Holdings As New Private-Label Cruise Partner

Members receive exclusive deals by booking through RCI Cruise 

WILMINGTON, Mass. (Oct. 1, 2019) – RCI, the world’s largest vacation exchange company has teamed up with the nation’s largest cruise agency, World Travel Holdings, as its private-label cruise partner. World Travel Holdings’ agents are now booking cruises online and directly for millions of RCI’s members through RCI® Cruise.

“We are thrilled to be partnering with World Travel Holdings to offer our members the company’s outstanding expertise and service when booking their next cruise vacation,” said Fiona Downing, senior vice president, Global Strategic Growth & Development for RCI Exchanges.  “Cruising has always been incredibly popular with RCI members and being able to offer an even wider array of cruise offers will help to further expand their vacation possibilities. Enhancing the RCI travel portfolio with new services aligns with our vision to put the world on vacation in a way no other company can.” 

Through this partnership, RCI members have access to World Travel Holdings’ exclusive offers and pricing on every major cruise line. Members also receive RCI Cruise Club exclusive offers, available on every sailing and stateroom category.

“Our partnership with RCI enables us to deliver enhanced services and travel options to members planning cruise vacations,” said Jennifer Gasser, senior vice president of the Partner Brands division at World Travel Holdings. “Our private-label program allows us to partner closely with RCI to create a Cruise Club that uniquely meets the needs of RCI and its members.”

World Travel Holdings has more than 20 years of experience creating and managing licensed private-label travel programs for some of the top travel providers including almost every U.S. airline, leading hotel brands and prominent corporations.

For more information about World Travel Holdings’ private-label partner program, please visit www.WorldTravelHoldings.com.

About World Travel Holdings
World Travel Holdings is the nation’s largest cruise agency and award-winning leisure travel company with a portfolio of more than 35 diverse brands. In addition to owning some of the largest brands distributing cruises, villas, resort vacations, car rentals, resort day passes and luxury travel services, World Travel Holdings has a vast portfolio of licensed private-label partnerships comprised of top travel providers, including almost every U.S. airline, leading hotel brands and prominent corporations. The company also operates a top-rated travel agency franchise and the country’s original host agency, and is consistently recognized as an industry leader in work-at-home employment. Its global presence includes operating multiple cruise and vacation brands in the United Kingdom. World Travel Holdings has offices in Wilmington, Mass.; Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.; Virginia Beach, Va.; New York, NY; and Chorley, England. For more information, visit WorldTravelHoldings.com.

About RCI®
RCI is the worldwide leader in vacation exchange, housing a unique portfolio of brands. RCI pioneered the concept of vacation exchange in 1974, offering members increased flexibility and versatility with their vacation ownership experience. Today, through the RCI Weeks® program, the week-for-week exchange system, and the RCI Points® program, the industry’s first global points-based exchange system, RCI offers its 3.8 million members access to more than 4,300 affiliated resorts in approximately 110 countries. RCI’s luxury exchange program, The Registry Collection® program, is the world’s largest program of its kind with approximately 200 affiliated properties either accessible for exchange or under development on six continents. RCI’s portfolio of brands also includes Love Home Swap, one of the world’s largest home exchange programs, DAE, a direct-to-member exchange company, and @Work International, a leading provider of property management systems. RCI is part of Wyndham Destinations (NYSE:WYND). For additional information visit our media center. RCI also can be found on Facebook, YouTube and Twitter.

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CruiseOne® Franchise Owners Recognized For Outstanding Contributions To Franchising

CruiseOne® Franchise Owners Recognized For Outstanding Contributions To Franchising

Bob & Bobbye Haupt of Newark, Del. Honored by the International Franchise Association

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (September 25, 2019) – CruiseOne® franchisees Bob and Bobbye Haupt were recently honored by the International Franchise Association with its annual Franchisee of the Year Award.

“When we opened our travel agency franchise in 1990 we knew that our success would always be under construction and that ultimately the client will be the judge of if we are a successful franchise,” said Bob Haupt, CruiseOne franchise owner. “We are honored that the IFA and CruiseOne have recognized our 30 years of providing our clients with the best advice and guidance. This is not an end but a new beginning.”

Honorees are selected based on their outstanding performance and the contributions they have made to enhance the growth and development of franchising. The Haupts were honored because they are not only top producers, but role models for all CruiseOne franchisees. They are always willing to share their expertise and secrets to their success with other franchisees.

“Bob and Bobbye have been franchise owners for almost 30 years and we were thrilled to have them represent CruiseOne in Washington, D.C.,” said Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager of CruiseOne. “They exemplify what it takes to be a successful franchise owner – a strong work ethic, team-player mentality and commitment to continuing education within the industry.”

“The strength of the U.S. economy significantly relies on the hard work of franchisees,” said IFA President & CEO Robert Cresanti.  “IFA is proud to recognize the outstanding efforts of Bob and Bobbye with the Franchisee of the Year Award and thank them for their work in the promotion of franchising as well as for their daily contributions that not only showcase how local business owners propel the economy, but also foster community ties throughout the U.S.”

The Haupts were one of 30 franchise owner-operators recognized at IFA’s Franchise Action Network Annual Meeting in Washington, D.C. which brings together more than 400 franchise business leaders to raise awareness with policymakers and other D.C. influencers about the industry’s continued success and economic contributions.

For more information on owning a CruiseOne/Dream Vacations travel franchise, please visit www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com or call 888-249-8235. 

Photo Cutline (From L to R): David Barr, IFA Chair of the Board, Chairman of PMTD Restaurants and Managing Director of Franworth; Bob and Bobbye Haupt, CruiseOne Franchise Owners; and Tom Baber, Franchise Owner of Money Mailer of Mercer, Somerset County, franchisee with IHOP, and Chair of the IFA Franchisee Forum.

About CruiseOne®
In operation since 1992, travel agents with the top-ranked home-based travel agency franchise CruiseOne® have the resources to plan and create seamless vacation experiences for their customers while offering the best value. A member of the International Franchise Association, CruiseOne is part of World Travel Holdings and has received partner of the year, a top-ranking status, by all the major cruise lines as well as national recognition for its support of military veterans. For more information about CruiseOne, visit www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com. Like CruiseOne on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DreamVacationsFranchise, follow on Twitter at @Dream_Franchise and watch its videos at www.youtube.com/DreamVacationsBusiness.

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