With the increased trend of travelers choosing to stay in a private home and traveling to domestic destinations, Villas of Distinction shares its top villa picks

Wilmington, Mass. (July 30, 2020) – As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, Villas of Distinction_®, the world’s premier luxury villa rental company as part of World Travel Holdings, is seeing increased bookings for this summer and beyond as consumers opt to stay in a private villa rental and travel to domestic destinations. According to Toby Babich, president, Vacation Rental Management Association, “Social distancing will become even more commonplace, especially in travel and tourism. Short-term rentals are the only true social distancing lodging option.”

“We are seeing a surge in interest from travel advisors, whose clients are ready to get out and travel, but who are seeking the comforts of home while having the peace of mind of staying in a private villa,” said Willie Fernandez, general manager and vice president for Villas of Distinction. “In addition to providing private villas, we have also worked with our villa partners to create enhanced, specific COVID-19 cleaning standards and provide more flexible cancellation policies.”

Here are five ultra-private villas that make for the perfect getaway as part of the “new normal”:

1. Villa Salt Acres in Connecticut is situated on a peninsula overlooking Fishers Island Sound with a Tri-State view. This extremely private 8.68 acre waterfront estate features a 30’ by 60’ saltwater pool, private beach with pier and dock, tennis court and sauna so guests don’t have to leave the villa to be entertained.

2. Villa Fredrics in New York is a secluded 2.3 acre waterfront property down a long meandering driveway in the Georgica Estate section of East Hampton. In addition to enjoying the evening sunsets from all angles of the home, guests will enjoy relaxing on the beach, going for a bike ride, kayaking, canoeing, playing in the game room, barbecuing or having a pizza party using the villa’s pizza oven.

3. Forge Lake Lodge in North Carolina offers the ultimate Smoky Mountain escape. This lakefront villa has a private dock, boat dock and swim platform. After an exciting day of outdoor activities such as kayaking, horseback riding, fishing, swimming, mountain biking or just taking in nature, guests can enjoy the hot tub, game room or library.

4. Chalet Cascada in Colorado offers ultimate privacy, and endless views of the ski mountain and valley from its unique location overlooking open space meadows. This villa is the perfect place to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of life. The comfortable living room is the ideal spot to gather with family and friends or watch a movie, and the expansive wrap-around deck offers the ultimate view to sneak away for morning coffee or al fresco summer dining.

5. Alpenglow in Montana is a ski-in, ski-out contemporary villa on a private, wooded lot. Fire up the BBQ grill for apres-ski al fresco, or simply take in the sun on the private patio in between ski runs. With a custom ski room to store gear, guests can easily ski and stop. For decadent home-cooked meals before or after a day of playing and exploring, guests can put the chef’s kitchen to use.

Many of Villas of Distinction’s properties have adopted the Villa Rental Management Association’s cleaning standard for COVID-19 and its “Peace of Mind” policy provides flexible travel policies. For more information, visit VillasofDistinction.com or call 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 experience creator with an extensive portfolio of thousands of privately-owned villas in more than 50 luxurious destinations worldwide including the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, Europe, Central America, the United States and many private islands. Many villas feature private pools, butlers, maids and chefs. The luxury villa provider has gained its guests’ trust by ensuring every villa meets strict standards so that each home exceeds expectations. Since 1989, 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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Travel agency franchise offering additional incentives, support and virtual training for new travel agents 

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (June 11, 2020) – Leading national travel agency franchise Dream Vacations is encouraging entrepreneurs who have always wanted to open a travel agency to not give up on their dreams and start a home-based business now, despite the current pandemic. The future of travel is bright and according to UBS research, 76 percent of people who had a canceled cruise have chosen a future cruise credit in 2021, while Cruise Critic reports that 92 percent of its members are open to cruising again.

“Whether you are brand new to the travel industry or are seeking a new host, now is the best time to start fresh with a travel agency business,” said Drew Daly, senior vice president & general manager of Dream Vacations. “All businesses have a ramp-up period and travel is no different. We are advising new agents to use this time to train, earn certifications and create a business plan so they can hit the ground running when people are ready to travel again.”

Leveraging the tools it already had as a home-based business and as a leader in remote work, Dream Vacations quickly launched a completely virtual weeklong initial training for new agents that provides the same amount of training and learning hours as in-person, with the classes booked to capacity each month. The week begins with an eLearning portion that is the equivalent of three days of classroom training, where they meet Dream Vacations’ senior leaders include Co-CEO/Chairman Brad Tolkin, Chief Operating Officer Debbie Fiorino and Daly. The final two days of training is a live-virtual class where new agents meet the marketing, business development, training and support teams live on-camera, and it concludes with a virtual graduation, complete with pomp and circumstance. One week after graduation, the Business Development team hosts a virtual happy hour to encourage engagement and camaraderie among classmates. Also, starting in June, new classes will have the opportunity to meet and engage with each other during a pre-class meet and greet.

“Hosting the initial new agent training virtually provides us with cost-savings, and we want to pass those savings on to our new franchisees as our way of saying thank you for not giving up on your dreams of having a work-at-home travel business,” adds Daly.

Dream Vacations is increasing its DiversityFran discount to 20 percent, while military veterans, Gold Star families and community heroes including first responders, educators and medical professionals, can now receive a 30 percent discount off the initial franchise fee. In addition, travel agents who are new to the industry can select one of three perks currently being offered — waived administrative fees valued at $1,350; through the Earn Back promotion and based on the initial fee, earn up to nearly $6,000 back plus nine months of waived administrative fees valued at $900; or a Microsoft^® Surface Pro tablet valued at $1,000.

Just like other companies, the Dream Vacations headquarters team adapted its support in this current environment. Dream Vacations has launched a virtual engagement plan that keeps its network informed and engaged. From webinars and Town Halls to virtual MeetUps and newsletters, agents always feel connected. Plus, the headquarters team is creating inspiring and educational marketing assets and resources to prepare for the travel rebound.

To learn more about joining the travel agency franchise that cares more about its franchise owners, please visit www.dreamvacationsfranchise.com or call 888-249-8235. 

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 franchise 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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More than 250 work-from-home travel agents attended first of three virtual regional trainings 

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (June 4, 2020) – Virtual conferences are becoming the new normal and when three of the five previously scheduled in-person Regional Trainings were impacted by COVID-19, the headquarters team at Dream Vacations, CruiseOne^® and Cruises Inc.^® jumped into action to reschedule those events, but in a virtual environment. As a result, the home-based travel agencies launched a series of two-day live Virtual Regional Trainings. The first was hosted the last week of May with more than 250 attendees, and the others are scheduled for July and August.

“We always say our agents are in business for themselves, but not by themselves, and that has never been more evident than during these past three months,” said Drew Daly, general manager and senior vice president of Dream Vacations CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. “Many are saying they feel more connected than ever before thanks to our shift in focusing on virtual engagement. They are craving this interaction, and as a result, participation is through the roof on all our virtual platforms. Our hope is that every single one of our agents will attend a regional training this year now that we have re-imagined them by adding the three virtual events this summer.”

Daly hosted the entire event with the same enthusiasm and energy he brings to an in-person event, which the network expects and appreciates. The Virtual Regional Training started each morning with a general session consisting of presentations from the corporate headquarters team, including Co-CEO/Chairman Brad Tolkin and Senior Vice President of Product & Operations David Crooks. In addition, Chief Operating Officer Debbie Fiorino, Vice President of IT Sandi Szalay, Vice President of Operations Joelle Delva and Vice President of Cruises Inc. Sean Tolkin participated on a Leadership Team panel, which allowed attendees to ask anything that was on their mind and get inspired for the future. In the afternoon, nearly 20 cruise and land suppliers hosted interactive breakout sessions. A highlight for attendees was hearing from Royal Caribbean International’s Senior Vice President of Sales, Trade Support & Service Vicki Freed, as well as Celebrity Cruises’ Senior Vice President of Sales, Trade Support & Service Dondra Ritzenthaler. Hearing directly from their peers is always the best way to learn, and Dream Vacations, CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. agents are always willing to help and support each other. Another highlight was the “all-agent” panel which featured four agents sharing their successful business building tips during this pandemic. All sessions were recorded so even those who were unable to attend or missed a session, were able to benefit from this training.

“Although there is nothing like in-person gatherings, our first-ever Virtual Regional Training was about as good as it can get,” said Rhonda Day, Dream Vacations franchise owner and vacation specialist in Louisville, Ky. “Our leadership team did an outstanding job putting together an engaging and informative two days. With the unique time we are in, the training naturally involved lots of talk about the state of the industry and how to move forward. With so much uncertainty right now, agents need to have positive reinforcement, support and connection and the Virtual Regional Training provided just that.”

Under the leadership of Director of Training Charity Santiago, and Director of Events & Corporate Giving Andrea Giraldo, the training and events team has amplified its online offerings and engagement. In addition to the creation of the Virtual Regional Trainings, they added a record-breaking number of training modules to the award-winning Learning Center, a robust online learning management system, and hosted nearly 100 webinars since mid-March that are experiencing a 252 percent increase in engagement.

To learn more about joining the travel agency network that cares more about its franchise owners and independent vacation specialists, please visit www.dreamvacationsfranchise.com for information about Dream Vacations/CruiseOne, 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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Ninth annual Operation Vetrepreneur contest begins Monday, May 25, 2020, and runs through July 31, 2020 

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (May 21, 2020) – This Military Appreciation Month, the number one franchise for veterans Dream Vacations announces that military veterans can enter-to-win a free travel agency franchise as part of the award-winning Operation Vetrepreneur business plan contest. Since 2012, Dream Vacations has awarded 42 free franchises valued at $533,400 to military veterans, and in recognition of the contest’s ninth anniversary this year and to pay tribute to the community heroes who have been on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic, in 2020 Operation Vetrepreneur is being expanded to award nine total military veterans and community heroes with a free franchise as well. The contest begins on Monday, May 25, 2020, and runs through July 31, 2020.

“Military veterans have been and always will be American heroes, but this year we have entered a new type of war with different heroes fighting the battle – first responders and healthcare workers,” said Debbie Fiorino, chief operating officer of Dream Vacations. “People are longing for a sense of community, are dreaming about their future and many are looking for their next career opportunity, and we provide that at Dream Vacations. This contest is just one way we express gratitude to those who are making the ultimate sacrifice to protect the American people.”

The Dream Vacations franchise contest is open to former members of any of the five branches of the U.S. military (Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard) who are retired, off active duty and/or honorably discharged prior to the contest start date, as well as community heroes such as first responders, educators and medical professionals who are residents of the U.S. To participate, candidates must complete an online entry form and an introductory phone interview with a franchise development manager. Candidates will be required to submit a candidate profile, business plan, and video. Finalists will be invited to participate in follow-up phone interviews before winners are selected. The entry form and all contest details can be found at www.OperationVetrepreneur.com.

Nine winners will be notified in August 2020. Each grand prize is valued at $11,600 and includes a complimentary Dream Vacations franchise with a waived $9,800 initial start-up fee and monthly service fees. After completing virtual franchisee training, the winners will be armed with all the tools and knowledge they need to begin their dream business creating dream vacations.

“I felt very honored to be named a winner in the 2019 Operation Veterepreneur contest, said Tawnya Caldwell, Navy veteran from Hermitage, Tenn. “It has opened so many doors for me to strive for financial freedom while doing something I absolutely love – travel. The Dream Vacations team really feels like a family and they are always watching out for us to help us achieve success.”

For military veterans, Gold Star families and community heroes interested in starting a work-from-home business immediately, they can purchase a Dream Vacations travel agency business now at a 30 percent discount, and receive an enlistment package and ongoing support. They can select one of three perks currently being offered — earn nearly $5,000 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. They also receive a waived training fee for a business partner; the ability to hire active-duty military spouses and veterans as associates at a discount; the flexibility to move residences and stay in business; veteran networking opportunities; and access to a Command Center which 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.

As the only travel franchise to receive a 5 STAR ranking from the International Franchise Association’s VetFran initiative, Dream Vacations proudly supports military veterans and is consistently recognized by leading industry publications as a veteran-friendly franchise. Other national accolades include number one rankings by Military Times, Entrepreneur and Forbes. Additional recognitions include inclusion on G.I. Jobs annual “Hot Franchises for Veterans,” US Veterans magazine’s “Top Veteran-Friendly Companies” and USA Today’s “50 Top Franchises for Military Veterans.”

Military veterans and community heroes who have a passion for travel and entrepreneurism who are interested in opening a Dream Vacations travel franchise and want to be considered as a candidate for Operation Vetrepreneur, please visit www.OperationVetrepreneur.com or call 888-249-8235.

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.

Begins May 25, 2020 at 12:01 a.m. ET and ends July 31, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. ET.  Void where prohibited by law. Must be 18 or older at the start of the Contest, have a computer and internet connection, be a legal resident of the US or DC and a former member in good standing of one of the five branches of the U.S. military who is retired, off active duty and/or was honorably discharged prior to the start date of the Contest or is currently employed as a U.S. First Responder, Educator or Medical Professional. If selected as winners, Contestants must commit to a 5-year  Dream Vacations home-based franchise, which requires attendance at a New Franchisee Training Class and a starting investment capital (for more information, go to www.dreamvacationsfranchise.com  or call 888-441-2542).  Only one (1) submission per contestant. To enter, complete the online entry form on our website (www.operationvetrepreneur.com).  If qualified and selected to move to the next round after a phone interview, Semi-Finalists must submit a résumé, video, Dream Vacations candidate profile, video and a minimum 300 – 1,200-word business plan. Submissions must comply with the Submission Guidelines in the Official Rules. Only complete, valid submissions will be accepted. Sponsored by Dream Vacations, 1201 W. Cypress Creek Rd. Ste. 100, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309.  See [www.OperationVetrepreneur.com] for complete Rules and details. 

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As part of its #WithYouToStay campaign, the villa rental company increases its existing up to $750 bonus commission to up to $1,500 

Wilmington, Mass. (May 20, 2020) – Villas of Distinction_®, the world’s premier luxury villa rental company as part of World Travel Holdings, launched today an increased bonus commission for travel advisors as part of its #WithYouToStay campaign. Travel advisors who book their clients in a Villas of Distinction villa from now until May 31, 2020, for travel until December 31, 2021, can earn a bonus commission of up to $1,500.

“We have received such a positive response to this campaign and have introduced dozens of guests to travel advisors in their local communities,” said Willie Fernandez, general manager and vice president for Villas of Distinction. “As we are beginning to see an increase in bookings, we are excited about extending and increasing the bonus commission for our travel advisor partners.”

Individual travel agents can earn the following bonus commissions:

• $250 bonus commission with every $10,000 – $25,000 booking
• $500 bonus commission with every $25,001 – $50,000 booking
• $750 bonus commission with every $50,001 – $99,000 booking
• $1,500 bonus commission with every $100,000+ booking

Additional benefits travel advisors can expect as part of Villas of Distinction’s #WithYouToStay campaign include the company directing its guests to book with a travel advisor; rich consumer promotions for travel advisor’s clients; a trusted villa partner working with its destination suppliers to provide the absolute best villa values and savings to pass on to their clients; and a commitment to making the planning process seamless.Villas of Distinction’s “Peace of Mind” policy continues to adapt and allows travel advisor’s clients to keep dreaming big – on their terms. For more information, visit the “Our Commitment to the Travel Advisor” page on VillasofDistinction.com or call 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 experience creator with an extensive portfolio of thousands of privately-owned villas in more than 50 luxurious destinations worldwide including the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, Europe, Central America, the United States and many private islands. Many villas feature private pools, butlers, maids and chefs. The luxury villa provider has gained its guests’ trust by ensuring every villa meets strict standards so that each home exceeds expectations. Since 1989, 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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The home-based travel agencies quickly respond with changes to ease financial burden as well as provide new virtual resources and a fresh marketing approach 

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (May 14, 2020) – The mantra “We Care More” can be found painted on the walls of the worldwide headquarters of Dream Vacations, CruiseOne^® and Cruises Inc.^®, yet this saying has never rang more true than now, when its employees, network of home-based travel agents and travel partners need to hear it most.

Everybody is craving social interaction and is anxious about the future. With a belief in transparency, the Dream Vacations, CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. leadership team has been providing business and industry updates daily through Town Halls, motivational webinars and a series of blog posts from Co-CEO/Chairman Brad Tolkin, Chief Operating Officer Debbie Fiorino and Senior Vice President/General Manager Drew Daly. Other educational content includes the ins and outs of virtual events so our agents can continue engaging with their clients. In addition, cruise line executives are hosting educational webinars to provide guidance on navigating this uncharted territory. All webinars are recorded to ensure every single agent has an opportunity to receive the information if they are unavailable to attend live.

Parent company World Travel Holdings has been a leader in the virtual workspace for more than a decade, so the corporate headquarters team was able to quickly deliver new virtual resources and tools. Previously scheduled in-person regional trainings and events have become interactive virtual conferences, enabling even more of our agents to attend and engage with the headquarters team while getting access to the same educational content the live events provided.

“We say it 365 days a year and during these unprecedented times, one thing has never changed – that our number one priority is taking care of our customers, and our customers are our Dream Vacations, CruiseOne and Cruises Inc. travel agents,” said Fiorino. “We are in the business of making business dreams become a reality, and this means making adjustments to ensure our agents can afford to stay in business while the industry is at a standstill.”

To ease the financial burden, agents have the option to defer their monthly fees for at least three months, as well as keep their administrative fees based on prior sales. Also, the company is helping its agents understand the opportunities provided to them through the CARES Act with one-on-one conversations, as part of its webinars and educational resources. As part of World Travel Holdings, a powerhouse in the cruise travel industry, the company advocates on behalf of its agents to ensure they receive their protected commissions.

As a result of the current environment, the supplier changes and promotional offers have become even more complex, so the headquarters team has created infographics, charts, videos and more to educate and support agents so they can readily assist their clients with Future Cruise Credits and get them rebooked.

“We are laser-focused on planning for the future and getting our agents prepared to handle the pent-up demand that we know will arise when people are able to start traveling again,” said Daly. “We are all in this together and rooting for the travel agent industry as a whole, we look forward to its resurgence.”

Training is also paramount for new travel agents, with in-person travel agent training now being conducted virtually, complete with an online video cruise tour. New agents are taking this time to work with their dedicated Business Development Manager to develop a business plan and learn the ins and outs of the industry, so they will be prepared when the industry rebounds.

In addition, the team is using their expertise to swiftly change direction in strategy, creating alternative engagement and marketing assets to support agents in staying in front of their clients. Leading by example to demonstrate what agents can do for their own clients, the Business Development Team has created weekly newsletters and is hosting virtual MeetUps, as a means of engagement. Marketing has taken an educational and aspirational approach, creating social media posts and a Virtual Travel Guide that educates consumers about why they need a travel agent now more than ever, while simultaneously inspiring them to dream about future travels.

“I have been a franchise owner of Dream Vacations for five years and this has been a very trying time professionally, but I am so thankful to have the support of my company headquarters,” said Dawn Beers O’Brien, Dream Vacations franchise owner and vacation specialist in San Jose, Calif. “In this time of uncertainty, having this support and encouragement is so important. I am eternally grateful to be a member of the Dream Vacations’ family.”’

To learn more about joining the travel agency network that cares more about its franchise owners and independent vacation specialists, please visit www.dreamvacationsfranchise.com for information about Dream Vacations/CruiseOne, 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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El Segundo, Calif. May 6, 2020 – Through the spread of COVID-19, we have seen our nation’s healthcare workers put their lives on the line for the welfare of the general population. Signature Travel Network is proud to partner with Villas of Distinction to honor our heroic healthcare providers in the way we know best. When we are all past today’s isolation orders, we would like to send four (4) winners on a well-deserved villa vacation in Los Cabos, Costa Rica, Utah or Florida.

Signature’s President Alex Sharpe said, “Our travel advisors have always enjoyed working with Villas of Distinction to provide their clients an unforgettable, personalized vacation at their elegant collection of villas. I am thrilled that through our joint program to honor our healthcare heroes we can give back to those who have given so much to our country by offering them a well-deserved vacation.”

“For more than 20 years, Villas of Distinction has partnered with the best travel advisors in the business, transforming the traditional approach to villa travel into something truly personal,” said Villas of Distinction’s VP and General Manager, Willie Fernandez. “I am happy that through this partnership with Signature we will now be able to honor our deserving healthcare heroes in the same personal way.”

Anyone may nominate a healthcare provider who is a resident of the U.S. online at www.honorahealthcarehero.com. Nominations will be accepted May 7, 2020, through July 31, 2020. Travel will be planned and curated by a Signature Travel Network advisor and will be valid through December 15, 2021 (with blackout dates).

Contest winners will be chosen based on a nominating essay describing the healthcare hero’s display of compassion, their support of colleagues and personal sacrifices as they served their community in battling the COVID crisis.   Selected winners will be announced the week of August 17, 2020.

Each of the award winners will enjoy a five-night villa stay and four (4) economy-class airline tickets:

• Grand Prize: 4-bedroom Villa 371, Los Cabos, Mexico
• Second Prize: 8-bedroom Villa Estrella, Guanacaste Coast, Costa Rica
• Third Prize: 4-bedroom Silver Star Penthouse with Spa, Park City, Utah
• Fourth Prize:7-bedroom Cypress at Reunion Resort, Orlando, Florida

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. A PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. Open to legal residents of the 50 United States (D.C.) 18 years of age and older. Void where prohibited. Promotion begins 5/7/20 and ends 7/31/20. For Official Rules, prize descriptions and odds disclosure, visit www.honorahealthcarehero.com. Sponsor: Signature Travel Network, 390 N Pacific Coast Hwy, Suite 3200, El Segundo, CA 90245

About Signature Travel Network
Signature Travel Network® is a member-owned travel cooperative, headquartered in El Segundo, California, with a regional office in New York City. The network was established in 1956, and today, includes more than 290 member agencies with over 600 retail locations in the United States, Canada, Brazil, Australia, New Zealand, Mexico and the Caribbean. Collectively, Signature members generate more than $8 billion in annual travel sales. Signature’s objective is to serve the needs of its members: boutique specialists, internet-based marketers and multi-location agencies, among others. Signature members include successful travel advisors who proudly serve a diverse group of clients.

 About Villas of Distinction
Villas of Distinction®, as part of World Travel Holdings, is an award-winning, full-service premier luxury villa experience creator with an extensive portfolio of thousands of privately-owned villas in more than 50 luxurious destinations worldwide including the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, Europe, Central America, the United States and many private islands. Many villas feature private pools, butlers, maids and chefs. The luxury villa 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 30 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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Campaign includes bonus commissions for the travel advisor, enhanced promotions for their clients and more 

Wilmington, Mass. (April 15, 2020) – Villas of Distinction_®, the world’s premier luxury villa rental company as part of World Travel Holdings, launched today its #WithYouToStay campaign devoted to supporting its travel advisor partners.

“We have always loved and appreciated our travel advisors; however, during this very difficult time for our industry we see a need and an opportunity to provide them with an enhanced level of support,” said Willie Fernandez, general manager and vice president for Villas of Distinction. “That is why we are encouraging our current and prospective customers to book with a travel advisor instead of booking direct.”

Here is what travel advisors who book Villas of Distinction vacation experiences can expect:

• Our Guests, Your Clients. Villas of Distinction is directing its guests to book with a travel advisor because now, more than ever, there is great value in having a travel advisor advocate.

• Money in The Travel Advisor’s Pocket. Up to $750 in Bonus Commission for every 2020 and 2021 booking. This offer is valid for new bookings made retroactively from now to May 31, 2020, for travel through December 31, 2021.

• Money for Travel Advisor’s Clients. A rich promotion with a choice of up to $2,000 in Destination Dollars or up to a $2,000 Amazon gift card.

• Better Value. Villas of Distinction is a trusted villa partner and as a result of the current situation, is working with its destination partners to provide the absolute best villa values and savings for travel advisors to pass on to their clients.

• The Ideal Partnership. Villas of Distinction knows the ins and outs of villa vacations and it is committed to making the planning process seamless for the travel advisor and their clients.

“Villas of Distinction will stand proudly by all travel advisors during this time and beyond to help them in the recovery,” said Steve Lassman, vice president of villa product and agency relations for Villas of Distinction. “Not only will we provide them with bonus commissions, but also incremental business by referring guests to them who would normally book direct.”

In addition, Villas of Distinction launched its “Peace of Mind” policy, which continues to adapt and allows travel advisor’s clients to keep dreaming big – on their terms. Villas of Distinction’s partners are working to:

1. Adapt new rebooking procedures to ensure clients’ villa vacations will happen
2. Relax payment terms to honor clients’ villa investments
3. Update travel policies, including cancelation policies up to 28 days prior to arrival, to ensure clients’ vacation plans are protected

For more information, visit the “Our Commitment to the Travel Advisor” page on VillasofDistinction.com or call 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 experience creator with an extensive portfolio of thousands of privately-owned villas in more than 50 luxurious destinations worldwide including the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, Europe, Central America, the United States and many private islands. Many villas feature private pools, butlers, maids and chefs. The luxury villa provider has gained its guests’ trust by ensuring every villa meets strict standards so that each home exceeds expectations. Since 1989, 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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Fiorino, Chief Operating Officer for Dream Vacations, CruiseOne^®, Cruises Inc.^®, one of 25 women recognized 

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (March 31, 2020) – Dream Vacations, CruiseOne^® and Cruises Inc.^® Chief Operating Officer Debbie Fiorino was recently named an Influential Business Woman by South Florida Business Journal. Honorees have strong records of leadership, performance and innovation in their industries plus meaningful community involvement.

“2020 has been a rollercoaster of a year and while being recognized as an Influential Business Woman is always an honor, this recognition is even more meaningful today as we are all navigating through unforeseen circumstances impacting the world we live in,” said Fiorino. “To me, being an Influential Business Woman extends beyond the boardroom, it is about being a role model, a calming voice of reason in times of uncertainty and inspiring others to persevere as we will all come out stronger on the other side.” 

Fiorino was honored for her dynamic personality and servant leadership; she not only changed the company culture, but also made the division experience incredible growth year-after-year since taking over in 2014. Her influence extends beyond Dream Vacations, CruiseOne and Cruises Inc., through her extensive community involvement and her advocacy for travel agents nationwide, which is more prevalent and important than ever before.

This recognition comes on the heels of several other accolades Fiorino received early this year, including being name a Power Woman by Moves magazine and a Woman of Wonder by Franchise Dictionary magazine.

To learn more about the CruiseOne / Dream Vacations travel agency franchise opportunity, please visit www.dreamvacationsfranchise.com, 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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Won in Customer Service Training Team of the Year – Internal Category for impressive travel agent training program

Las Vegas, Nev. – (March 12, 2020) – World Travel Holdings’ Talent Development team was presented with a Bronze Stevie^® Award in the Customer Service Training Team of the Year – Internal – Other Service category at the 14^th annual Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service.

The Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service are the world’s top honors for customer service, contact center, business development and sales professionals. The Stevie Awards organizes eight of the world’s leading business awards programs, also including the prestigious American Business Awards^® and International Business Awards^®.

The awards were presented to honorees during a gala banquet on Friday, February 28, at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas, Nev. More than 2,600 nominations from organizations in 48 nations of all sizes and in virtually every industry were evaluated in this year’s competition. Winners were determined by the average scores of more than 180 professionals worldwide on seven specialized judging committees.

“It was great to compete with so many Fortune 500 companies and receive accolades from our first-ever submission,” said Marilyn McCawley, director of talent management for World Travel Holdings. “I am so proud of my team for creating and delivering quality trainings that support the business and our employees.”

The World Travel Holdings’ Talent Development team was praised by the judges for their impressive use of role-playing, technology, multi-media training, real-time customer interactions, call certification, and more. One judge said, “This is a thorough and compelling story of your dedication in selling to and servicing your customers. Your training programs and agendas are more detailed than any others. Your processes and policies … are outstanding. Your enthusiasm is evident. Good work!”

“Stevie Award winners from around the world should be very proud of their achievements. The judges were impressed with the vast range of nominations submitted for 2020 and have agreed that their accomplishments are worthy of public recognition,” said Stevie Awards executive chairman, Michael Gallagher.

Details about the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service and the list of Stevie winners in all categories are available at www.StevieAwards.com/sales.

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 40 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 leisure 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 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 The Stevie Awards
Stevie Awards are conferred in eight programs: the Asia-Pacific Stevie Awards, the German Stevie Awards, the Middle East Stevie Awards, The American Business Awards®, The International Business Awards®, the Stevie Awards for Great Employers, the Stevie Awards for Women in Business, and the Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service. Stevie Awards competitions receive more than 12,000 entries each year from organizations in more than 70 nations. Honoring organizations of all types and sizes and the people behind them, the Stevies recognize outstanding performances in the workplace worldwide. Learn more about the Stevie Awards at http://www.StevieAwards.com.

Sponsors of the 14^th annual Stevie Awards for Sales & Customer Service include HCL Technologies, Sales Partnerships, Inc., and ValueSelling Associates, Inc.

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