Four Gold and one Silver for its innovative technology, custom marketing assets and top-notch resources for its franchisees 

Wakefield, Mass. (October 17, 2023) – Travel Weekly, a top travel industry trade publication, recognized World Travel Holdings with five Magellan Awards. Many of the winning entries are incredible initiatives and programs from the Dream Vacations travel agency franchise.

“We are immensely proud of our achievements in the 2023 Travel Weekly Magellan Awards,” said Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager for Dream Vacations. “These awards are a testament to our ongoing commitment to innovation and excellence within the travel industry. We are dedicated to providing our network of travel advisors with the tools and support they need to succeed, and these wins reflect our unwavering commitment to their success.”

Gold Winners

The Associate Onboarding Toolkit provides Dream Vacations franchise owners a beautifully branded kit that assists them in providing a seamless onboarding process for their associates. By providing customizable resources and activities, this toolkit ensures that associates receive comprehensive training and support from day one.

The groundbreaking Agent Directory is a transformative lead generation tool for Dream Vacations travel advisors. Designed to showcase their expertise, increase online visibility, and enhance credibility with prospective customers, the Agent Directory allows the Dream Vacations network to reap all the SEO benefits.

Dream Vacations has harnessed the magic of Personalized Videos, collaborating closely with a professional videographer to deliver captivating content that forges deep connections with clients and prospects. The most unique aspect of these videos is that Dream Vacations franchise owners and associates can customize the videos with their own travel advisor call-to-action information.

Cruises.com, another prominent brand within World Travel Holdings, added to the trophy case with a Gold win for their remarkable Countrywide Innovative Marketing Campaign. The initiative included the use of creative placements in key highway networks to drive ports and serving as a proud sponsor of collegiate athletics through partnerships with the University of Florida and the University of Houston.

“We’re so proud of the work the team has done to build brand awareness for the Cruises.com brand,” said Rosemarie Reed senior vice president for World Travel Holdings who oversees the marketing for Cruises.com.” I know their immense creativity is what earned them this award and we are so honored to have won Gold in the 2023 Travel Weekly Magellan Awards.”

Silver Winner 

In February 2023, Dream Vacations launched its highly anticipated Groups Application, which has contributed to the highest group sales the B2B division has seen since 2017. The award-winning online interface allows agents to manage the entire life cycle of a group easily and effectively. Three standout features include:

• Group Registration: Allows agents to auto generate and customize a website page to promote each group. The best feature is the ability it provides for customers to easily register into a group, creating a frictionless customer experience while minimizing an agent’s effort.
• Group Share: A unique set of features weaved in every part of the suite of applications that allows agents to share their group inventory with all agents in the Dream Vacations network, so everyone benefits from the price and amenities of group travel.
• Block Groups: Allows Dream Vacations headquarters the ability to manage corporate held group space and gives the network the ability to book into these group types effortlessly, while comparing prices to FIT to ensure their clients get the best deal.

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.

“Now that travel has come roaring back, it’s clear that those who provide travelers with vacation opportunities were inspired as never before,” said Arnie Weissmann, editor in chief of Travel Weekly. “We had a record-breaking number of entries this year, and the creativity and innovative approaches really wowed the judges. The entrants’ collective desire to exceed consumers’ expectations was never more evident.”

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.

For a complete list of silver and gold winners, please visit www.travelweeklyawards.com.

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. 

About Cruises.com
Cruises.com is the smart way to book. With a team of Travel Experts, customers can easily find their dream cruise through a stress-free booking experience and enjoy all the cruise line offers on top of an exclusive bonus. For more information, visit Cruises.com, like them on Facebook at Cruises.com, or follow them on Instagram @cruisescom.

About World Travel Holdings
World Travel Holdings is the nation’s largest cruise agency and award-winning leisure travel company with a portfolio of nearly 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 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 is consistently recognized as an industry leader in employee engagement and work-at-home employment. Its global presence includes operating multiple cruise brands in the United Kingdom. World Travel Holdings has offices in Wakefield, Mass.; Ft. Lauderdale, Fla.; and Chorley, England. For more information, visit WorldTravelHoldings.com.

About Travel Weekly
Travel Weekly is the most influential provider of news, research, opinion, and analysis to the North American travel trade marketplace. It reaches a broad industry audience in print, online and with face-to-face events throughout the year. Travel Weekly is a division of Secaucus, New Jersey-based Northstar Travel Media, the largest travel business-to-business travel publisher in the world.

About Northstar Travel Group
Northstar Travel Group is the leading B-to-B information and marketing solutions company serving all segments of the travel industry including leisure/retail, corporate/business travel, corporate and sports meetings, incentives, hospitality, and travel technology. Northstar is the owner of leading brands serving these travel segments. The company produces more than 100 face-to-face events in 13 countries in retail travel, hospitality, corporate travel, travel technology, sports travel, and the meetings & incentive industry. In addition, Northstar owns Phocuswright, the leading research and event producer serving the travel technology industry. Northstar

Travel Group owns the BHN Group, the leading producer of hotel investment conferences.

Northstar is also the majority shareholder in Inntopia, the leading SaaS e-commerce software business serving the mountain destination, golf, activities, and hospitality markets. Based in Rutherford, NJ, the company has seven offices in the U.S., UK, and Singapore. Northstar Travel Group is owned by funds managed by EagleTree Capital.

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Hyatt Inclusive Collection hosted the four-day intensive training at Secrets/Dreams Playa Mujeres

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (September 26, 2023) – Land and resort vacation business is booming for travel advisors with Dream Vacations and CruiseOne^®, with land sales up 20 percent year over year. The need for travel agent training in this niche is more important than ever. Hyatt Inclusive Collection co-hosted the annual Dream Vacations and CruiseOne Land Summit at the Secrets/Dreams Playa Mujeres in Cancun, Mexico. During the four-day training, more than 140 travel advisors participated in interactive workshops, agent panels, round-table discussions, hotel events, and site inspections.

“We were honored to have hosted the 2023 Dream Vacations and CruiseOne Land Summit at the beautiful Secrets and Dreams Playa Mujeres Golf and Spa Resort,” said Mary Ellen Burke, national director of sales for Hyatt Inclusive Collection. “Spending time with these key travel advisors and the leadership team at this impressive event is a privilege and wonderful opportunity to network and collaborate. Inclusive Collection is proud and grateful for the strong partnership with Dream Vacations and CruiseOne. We look forward to our continued partnership and growing successfully together.”

The booming year for land vacations also highlighted some shifts in consumer habits:

• Dream Vacations and CruiseOne have seen an increase in the average booking window.
• Luxury is in high demand.
• The Caribbean, Mexico, and Europe remain extremely popular, and bookings are significantly up.

Dream Vacations and CruiseOne travel advisors grew their businesses due to the marketing programs provided. The marketing team unveiled a new initiative called “Destination Spotlight.” The first edition of the Destination Spotlight features the Dominican Republic. The goal is for agents to be able to showcase the highlighted destination and provide travel inspiration to their customers. An agent’s toolkit includes:

• A dedicated landing page.
• Email template.
• Customizable assets.
• Social media content.

Marketing also announced a land-exclusive promotion, funded by the franchise, which runs from September 19^th through October 3^rd to commemorate the 2023 Land Summit.

“The small training groups enable our advisors to engage with suppliers and each other, ultimately gaining a deeper understanding of the product,” said Sean Tolkin, vice president of land strategy and network performance for Dream Vacations and CruiseOne. “Small businesses must create a unique brand, customize their products, and think about their customers’ needs to succeed. To ensure that our travel advisors are successful, our Land Summit covered relevant best practices and provided them with the latest tools, resources, and content. These insights will help them generate new leads and keep loyal customers.”

Dream Vacations and CruiseOne also announced the official endorsement of the TAToolkit. Dream Vacations franchise owner Debby Corwin developed this robust resource. The TAToolkit provides first-hand accounts of various resorts that can allow travel advisors to be comfortable selling and recommending packages for their customers. The Land Summit concluded the 2023 Immersive Education Series, which featured intimate training opportunities on niche topics such as groups, luxury, and river cruising.

“We try to attend the Land Summit every year. The relationships we cultivate with suppliers are so important,” said Jeff Leach, a Dream Vacations franchise owner based in Omaha, Neb. “This year, it was wonderful to meet with new contacts and reacquaint with those connections already established. We saw some beautiful resorts and can provide our guests with first-hand recommendations and information. The Dream Vacations/CruiseOne staff did an amazing job putting this together.”

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

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Top-selling travel advisors share best practices for elevating the luxury villa vacation experience for clients 

Wakefield, Mass. (August 22, 2023) – Villas of Distinction_®, the world’s premier luxury villa rental company, announces insider tips from some of its top-selling travel advisor partners. According to Flywire Corporation (Nasdaq: FLYW), a global payments enablement and software company, 83 percent of luxury travelers surveyed plan to spend more on travel in 2023 than they did in 2022.*

The Flywire Corporation report also highlighted the value of the travel advisor when creating a luxury experience. 81 percent of respondents say working with travel experts is the only way to have a true luxury travel experience – up from 74 percent in 2022.*

“Our top priority is working with our travel advisor partners to educate; support; provide value, such as special bonus commissions; and help them earn more,” said Steve Lassman, vice president of villa product and agency relations for Villas of Distinction. “The trends speak for themselves; travelers are willing to spend on a luxury vacation and they are going to use a travel advisor to book it. We are here to help our travel advisor partners succeed.”

Villas of Distinction reached out to some of its top-selling villa vacation experts to share tips and best practices for selling luxury villa vacations:

• “It is not enough to get a count of the number of people, you need to know the exact bedding type they need and who can and cannot share a bed. That calculus determines how many bedrooms are necessary. When evaluating options, it’s always better to go with a bigger unit than originally anticipated than smaller unit. Personal space is crucial.” – Ellen Goldman, luxury travel advisor & president of Trav-ellen’ Inc.
• “Plan as far in advance as possible for the best selection of private tours, desirable suites, and the most attractive pricing. Even people in the luxury space value “perks” that are included in travel. I think my high-end clients, even though they have bigger budgets, are more conscientious of the overall cost of travel. They value ease and all-inclusive where possible even if that means having a chef available when needed for family vacations in villas or private dinners with chefs.” – Nicole Karuzas, Nicole’s Getaways Dream Vacations
• “European villas offer so much value in comparison to luxury hotels. The value is incredible when you consider the space, the number of bedrooms, and the freedom you have compared to the costs of luxury hotels these days. A family of four or five will need two rooms, ideally a connecting. These rooms will likely start around 250 square feet at an incredible cost during the summer months in the luxury market. When you compare that to the price of a villa rental for three bedrooms and the amount of space you can have, there is fantastic value. Use a villa as a base and take day trips. Enjoy yourself and go at a slower pace and take in all of the beauty the destination offers. You will have much more cultural experience, feel like a local, and appreciate the space.” – Jessica Griscavage, Departure Lounge
• “Have your clients think of a villa as their own personal hotel AND home away from home. I’ve never had a client complain after returning home from a villa vacation. First timers usually wonder what took them so long. Repeat renters realize it’s the only way to have a relaxing, self-paced trip. There are so many positive selling points for those interested in a villa vacation. For example, staffed villas — the staff are there to focus on your client, so they are more attentive. Villas also offer more flexibility; no more worrying that your comped breakfast can only be served before 10 a.m. Kids don’t share a room at home and with multiple bedrooms in a villa, they won’t have to on vacation. Your clients also don’t have to worry about getting up at 5 a.m. to get a lounge chair or fight for space at the pool because villas have private pools. Whenever hungry during the day or in the middle of the night, at a villa, there aren’t reduced room service hours or $18 scoops of ice cream. Clients can simply go to their pre-stocked kitchen and grab a bite to eat. Some villas even offer an on-call chef to cook up that perfect late-night grilled cheese. The point is you get all the luxury and amenities of a hotel with the personal touch and privacy of a home.” – David Kass, Frosch Travel
• “In the competitive world of travel, catering to the discerning needs of luxury travelers requires a unique set of skills and strategies. With an unwavering commitment to providing unparalleled service and curating extraordinary experiences we must provide invaluable guidance in order to excel in this highly specialized niche. Luxury travelers crave tailor-made experiences that resonate with their unique preferences. It is therefore our responsibility to emphasize the importance of understanding clients on a personal level in order to craft itineraries and find properties that surpass their expectations. The significance of offering exclusive access to attractions, private tours, dinner reservations and VIP experiences is also key to the unique property we are providing for our clients. We as advisers work together as a team with our trusted suppliers in order to do so. In the luxury market, every detail matters and I firmly believe that meticulous attention to even the smallest aspect of a holiday, from seamless transportation to exquisite accommodations, is essential to creating a flawless experience. Rather than focusing solely on the price, I recommend highlighting the unique value of the experience and curate the details to match the client’s personality and wish list. By showcasing the once-in-a-lifetime moments and unparalleled service, luxury travelers are more likely to invest.  It is also very important to underscore the importance of building lasting relationships with clients. By providing exceptional service before, during, and after the trip, we as advisers can foster trust and secure repeat business.” – Maryann Gaskin | Gaskin Travel Inc.

In addition to being the only luxury villa provider to consistently partner with the travel agency community, Villas of Distinction supports advisors by directing its guests to book with a travel advisor, providing enhanced promotions for their clients as well as hosting special “Wine Down Wednesday” and “Lunch and Learn” events. It also continues to increase advisor engagement by providing more educational knowledge about villas, which has helped them to successfully sell this unique product.

For more information about educational opportunities or how to get started selling villa vacations, visit the Travel Advisors page on VillasofDistinction.com or call 800-289-0900.

*Flywire Survey: Luxury Travelers Expected to Spend Even More Than Last Year on Vacations

About Villas of Distinction_®
Villas of Distinction_®, as part of World Travel Holdings, is an award-winning, full-service villa experience creator with a portfolio of thousands of privately-owned villas in more than 52 destinations worldwide including the United States, Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, Central America, and beyond. Many villas feature excellent staff and state-of-the-art amenities – like private pools, home theaters, in-villa game rooms, and fitness centers. The luxury villa provider has gained its guests’ trust by ensuring every villa meets strict standards so that each home exceeds expectations. Since 1989, the Villas of Distinction team have made vacation planning effortless by pairing travelers find their perfect vacation home and curating one-of-a-kind getaways at the world’s top villas. Travel Advisors have named Villas of Distinction as the Gold winner for “Best Villa Rental Company Overall” in the annual Travvy Awards since 2015. www.VillasofDistinction.com.

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The villa rental company adds new destinations and further expands its portfolio in the U.S. 

Wakefield, Mass. (August 3, 2023) – According to the article “The Ultimate Fact Guide to America’s Tourism Industry Including Outbound, Inbound, Domestic & Business Travel Figures”, 61 percent of Americans say they are only taking domestic trips within the U.S. in 2023 and most will drive to their destination.* With the continued increase in demand for travel within the U.S., Villas of Distinction_® announces that it’s added new destinations to its portfolio.

“We are continuously monitoring travel trends and speaking with our travel advisors about what their clients and our guests are seeking in their next dream vacation,” said Steve Lassman, vice president of villa product and agency relations for Villas of Distinction. “We are not seeing the demand for domestic travel slow down, so we are continuing to increase our villa options in popular U.S. destinations to feed this desire.”

New destinations to the Villas of Distinction portfolio include Arizona, Oregon, and Washington State.

In Arizona, there are new villa options in Phoenix and Scottsdale. Arizona, “The Grand Canyon State”, is the perfect destination for visitors who want to take in beautiful desert landscapes and learn about its Native American and Old West heritage. From the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon, a geological masterpiece, to stunning red rock formations, nature’s artistry unfolds at every turn. Adventure seekers can revel in a host of outdoor activities, including hiking, rock climbing, and stargazing in some of the darkest skies in the country. History enthusiasts can trace the footsteps of ancient civilizations at iconic sites like Montezuma Castle and explore the cultural richness of Native American tribes.

New villa options in Oregon are in cities including Boring, Damascus, Government Camp, Lincoln City, Monmouth and Warrenton. Oregon’s draw for visitors is its unspoiled coastlines, natural beauty, rushing rivers and snow-capped mountains — a true paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Embracing its artistic spirit, Oregon boasts vibrant cities, known for their unique blend of creativity, artisanal delights, and cutting-edge culinary experiences. History comes alive at landmarks like the Oregon Trail Interpretive Center, offering insights into the pioneer spirit that shaped the state’s rich heritage.

In Washington State, new villas to the Villas of Distinction portfolio can be found in Bellingham and Blaine. This destination is renowned for its breathtaking natural landscapes, vibrant cities, and rich cultural heritage, inviting travelers to embark on an adventure like no other. From the rugged peaks of the Cascade Mountains to the serene beauty of the Puget Sound, visitors can indulge in a diverse range of outdoor activities, including hiking, skiing, and kayaking. The bustling metropolis of Seattle offers a unique blend of technology, art, and cuisine, while charming towns and wineries in Eastern Washington captivate wine enthusiasts.

Villas of Distinction has also expanded its villa offerings in California locations including Del Mar, La Jolla, Napa Valley, San Diego and Yosemite as well as in Florida in Fernandina Beach, New Smyrna Beach, Palm Beach and Punta Gorda.

For more information and to explore villas in these newly added destinations, visit VillasofDistinction.com or call 800-289-0900.

*The Ultimate Fact Guide to America’s Tourism Industry Including Outbound, Inbound, Domestic & Business Travel Figures. Sources: Tourism Analytics, Travel agent central, Skift, Trade.gov, Trade.gov 2, Statista, AAA, TravelAgentCentral, MMGY 

About Villas of Distinction_®
Villas of Distinction_®, as part of World Travel Holdings, is an award-winning, full-service villa experience creator with a portfolio of thousands of privately-owned villas in more than 52 destinations worldwide including the United States, Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, Central America, and beyond. Many villas feature excellent staff and state-of-the-art amenities – like private pools, home theaters, in-villa game rooms, and fitness centers. The luxury villa provider has gained its guests’ trust by ensuring every villa meets strict standards so that each home exceeds expectations. Since 1989, the Villas of Distinction team have made vacation planning effortless by pairing travelers find their perfect vacation home and curating one-of-a-kind getaways at the world’s top villas. Travel Advisors have named Villas of Distinction as the Gold winner for “Best Villa Rental Company Overall” in the annual Travvy Awards since 2015. www.VillasofDistinction.com.

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Dream Vacations billboard featured in NYC’s Times Square through August 20^th 

New York, N.Y. (August 2, 2023) – Leading travel agency franchise Dream Vacations is illuminating New York City as its vibrant digital billboard shines bright in the heart of Times Square at 43^rd St. & Broadway. Standing more than seven stories tall, this iconic LED display has become the talk of the town, garnering attention from the bustling traffic in the city that never sleeps for a chance to win a dream vacation.

From July 31^st to August 20^th, Dream Vacations’ captivating 15-second ad will grace the Nasdaq digital billboard, rotating every two minutes alongside other esteemed advertisers. Operating for 18 hours a day on weekdays and 20 hours a day on weekends, the billboard offers a prime opportunity to generate leads, enhance brand awareness by delivering 18 million impressions through this placement, and emphasize the unparalleled value of a travel advisor. To enter the contest, passerby can scan the giant QR code or visit www.DreamVacations.com/NYC for a chance to win the Dream Vacations sweepstakes.

“We are thrilled to make a splash in the big apple with our Times Square digital billboard,” said Alicia Linden, vice president of consumer and recruitment marketing for Dream Vacations. “It’s the perfect moment for us because we’re seeing a surge in vacations being booked and the prominent display raises awareness of the incredible value a travel advisor offers.”

To commemorate this momentous occasion, Dream Vacations is inviting travelers to explore exclusive offers during the “Splash into Cash” sale. From now until August 15^th, customers can cash in on incredible savings for their next cruise, resort stay, tour, or villa vacation. The billboard and promotion coincided with an in-street activation event near Bryant Park where some of the network’s top selling agents and headquarter’s staff interacted with foot traffic and gave out some free Dream Vacations branded merchandise.

“As a Dream Vacations franchisee, seeing our brand shine in Times Square is awe-inspiring,” said Aggie Batista, a Dream Vacations franchise owner from Rockaway Park, NY. “It reaffirmed the impact we have as travel advisors and drives me to continue to create everlasting memories for my clients.”

For more information on owning a Dream Vacations travel franchise, 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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Dream Vacations/CruiseOne^® is the only travel agency ranked #1 on this list 

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (July 26, 2023) – Dream Vacations/CruiseOne^®  was recognized as one of the   by Entrepreneur. The ranking, which is featured in the July/August issue of Entrepreneur magazine and on Entrepreneur.com, highlights the brands from Entrepreneur’s 2023 Franchise 500 ranking that ranked at the top of their industry categories. Dream Vacations/CruiseOne^® was ranked No. 1 in the Travel Agencies category.

“We are ecstatic and honored to be ranked as the top travel agency franchise,” said Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager for Dream Vacations/CruiseOne^®. “We wouldn’t be number one without our network of engaged and hard-working franchise owners. They inspire our headquarters’ teams to innovate, be agile, and be better than we were the day before.”

Entrepreneur’s Best of the Best Franchises ranking is based on information submitted for its annual Franchise 500^® and is part of the brand’s continuing effort to best understand and evaluate the ever-changing franchise marketplace. The franchises selected as 2023’s Best of the Best are ranked not only in the increasingly competitive Franchise 500 list this year but also at the top of their respective industry categories, based on an evaluation of more than 150 data points in the areas of costs and fees, size and growth, franchisee support, brand strength, and financial strength and stability. There are 152 categories represented this year, a testament to the ever-growing diversity of industries represented in the franchise world.

“Everyone wants to join a winning team, and that’s why we love making this annual Best of the Best Franchises list,” says Jason Feifer, editor in chief of Entrepreneur magazine. “The companies on this list exemplify what it takes to thrive in franchising: They are innovative and nimble, but also stable and growing. They are truly the best of the best.”

To view Dream Vacations/ CruiseOne^® in the 2023 Best of the Best list, pick up the July/August issue of Entrepreneur magazine, on newsstands now, or visit https://www.entrepreneur.com/franchises/directory/best-of-the-best-ranking.

About Dream Vacations and 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 and CruiseOne franchisees have the resources to plan and create seamless vacation experiences for their customers while offering the best value. Dream Vacations and CruiseOne 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, 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 www.youtube.com/DreamVacationsBusiness.

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 This new website provides consumers a curated selection of Italy villas offering authentic and immersive experiences for travelers 

Wakefield, Mass. (July 11, 2023) – With the continued increase in demand and popularity of travel to Italy, Luxury Travel Holdings has announced the launch of ItalyVillas.com, which focuses on the unique experiences that Italy offers including cultural immersion, culinary delights, access to hidden gems, and insider knowledge of the best attractions and activities in Italy.

“At Italy Villas, we not only match our guests to a villa that fits their needs, but our team of concierges plans the trip itinerary from start to finish ensuring that each guest gets a fully immersive Italy vacation experience,” said Andrew Kaye, general manager for Italy Villas. “With consumer interest and reservations both up around 50 percent over last year, we want to provide a destination-specific website that allows us to cater to the unique experiences that Italy has to offer.”

Italy Villas handpicks each property in the portfolio, ensuring that every villa meets the highest standards of quality, comfort, and authenticity. While Italy Villas will continue to grow its portfolio to include new destinations across this beautiful country, here is a highlight of some luxurious villas:

Brillalta in Apulia, the heel of Italy’s boot, is famous for its warm climate year-round and is surrounded by the pristine waters of the Ionian and Adriatic seas. This six-bedroom, six-bathroom villa allows for complete privacy. Its outdoor space features a private pool, and a lounge/dining area under a covered patio which is perfect for dining al fresco and enjoying views over ancient olive trees. Truly an authentic slice of Italian life!

Also in Apulia, villa Cantamusa, is ideal for groups or families who wish to enjoy the real local vibe and find their refuge in a land blessed with picturesque landscape, rich history, and unique cultural heritage. The main room which is flooded by natural light is harmonious and functional combining three different activities: cooking, dining, and lounging, so that everyone can enjoy each other’s company.

Villa Cocco is a unique luxury property in Tuscany. It has two buildings connected by a charming courtyard. The house has eight bedrooms, with a further two in the barn. Seven of the bedrooms in the main house have ensuite bathrooms and the eighth is an interconnecting room, ideal for children. There is generous living accommodation both inside and out, and an extremely attractive covered terrace with barbecue for al fresco dining.

Also in Tuscany, Villa Paola is just one mile away from the Camaiore village center and five miles from the seaside. It has four bedrooms and four bathrooms for up to eight guests on three floors, with amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi in all rooms, flatscreen satellite TV, and a beautiful garden surrounded by two acres of olive trees.  Each of the rooms has spectacular views of the valley and the sea.

For more information or to plan an immersive Italy vacation, visit ItalyVillas.com or call 800-820-1696.

About Italy Villas
Italy Villas, which is owned and operated by Luxury Travel Holdings, is a full-service villa provider that offers a curated selection of luxury villas and tailor-made experiences in Italy’s most desirable destinations. From Tuscany to the Amalfi Coast and beyond, each villa is handpicked to ensure an authentic and unforgettable stay. And with a concierge team of local experts, every guest’s experience is personally crafted to their wishes. Discover a world of privacy, luxury, and incredible experiences in one of the world’s most alluring destinations: Italy.

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Dream Vacations travel agency franchise launches 12^th annual “Operation Vetrepreneur: Become Your Own General” contest on May 29, 2023

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (June 6, 2023) – Leading travel agency franchise Dream Vacations is recruiting military veterans to enlist in its 12^th annual, award-winning “Operation Vetrepreneur: Become Your Own General” contest. The number one franchise opportunity for veterans will be awarding three veterans a free franchise as part of the nationwide contest that since 2012, has given away 58 franchises valued at nearly $700,000 dollars.

“Supporting our nation’s veterans is an ongoing commitment that we hold dear. At Dream Vacations, we strive to go above and beyond in assisting our military heroes and their families in every way possible,” said Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager of Dream Vacations. “As we look ahead to the future, our dedication remains unyielding. Through our annual Operation Vetrepreneur contest, we’re thrilled to make it easier for veterans to pursue their dreams of owning a business, achieving prosperity, and securing success for their families – no matter where they may be. It’s our way of expressing gratitude and giving back to those who have served our country with honor and valor.”

The Dream Vacations franchise contest is open to former members of any of the six branches of the U.S. military (Army, Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, Space Force and Coast Guard) who are retired, off active duty and/or honorably discharged prior to the contest start date and 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.

Three winners will be notified in October 2023. Each grand prize is valued at $12,300 and includes a complimentary Dream Vacations franchise with a waived $10,500 initial start-up fee and monthly administrative service fees for the first year. After completing Dream Vacations’ New Franchisee Training, the winners will be armed with all the tools and knowledge they need to begin their next journey as small business owners creating dream vacations.

“I am so honored to have won a Dream Vacations travel franchise. It was a complete shock,” said Crystal Ureta, Army Veteran and 2022 Operation Vetrepreneur: Become Your Own General winner from Kingwood, Texas. “Dream Vacations is a company that gives back to the military community and offers many incentive programs to assist veterans in transitioning back to civilian life. I had never won anything of this magnitude before and to me it meant that they saw success in me, that gave me the confidence and drive to work my business. Dream Vacations is my dream come true and I get to live it every day. Thanks to the wonderful network and support they provide to help others live their dream.”

According to the Department of Defense, more than 200,000 military veterans are entering the civilian workforce each day, and Dream Vacations recognizes that franchising provides a unique opportunity to leverage the traits gained in the military and translate them to entrepreneurship. This includes teamwork, decisive thinking, leadership and self-discipline to name a few. Those who have served in the Armed Forces also have an innate desire to serve others and see the world, which are important aspects of being a successful travel franchise owner.

Military veterans and Gold Star families interested in starting a work-from-home business immediately can purchase a Dream Vacations travel agency business now at a 30 percent discount, receive an enlistment package valued no less than $5,000 and will have their administrative fees waived which is valued at $1,800. In addition to having access to the Command Center, an internal portal with veteran-specific training and veteran-themed marketing assets, 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.

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. Dream Vacations was named Entrepreneur magazine’s top franchise for veterans in 2021, and in the category, has ranked either first or second out of 150 franchises nationwide since 2017. Other recent number one rankings include Military Times and Forbes. In 2022, Dream Vacations was named the No. 1 travel agency franchise by Entrepreneur magazine for adapting and evolving when facing the unique challenges and changes that shaped the franchise industry over the last year. 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. The “Operation Vetrepreneur: Become Your Own General” program won gold from the Travel Weekly Magellan Awards and the IFA Franchising Gives Back Awards.

Military veterans with a passion for travel and entrepreneurship who are interested in opening a Dream Vacations travel franchise and want to be considered as a candidate for the “Operation Vetrepreneur: Become Your Own General” contest, 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 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.

Begins May 29th, 2023, at 12:01 a.m. ET and ends September 4^th, 2023 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 six 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. 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 video, Dream Vacations candidate profile, 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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The villa rental company is reporting limited summer availability in Italy

Wakefield, Mass. (May 23, 2023) – With the pent-up demand for travel and so many travelers with Europe on the bucket list, summer availability is booking up fast. Villas of Distinction_® announces some villa rentals are still available for summer travel.

According to the Airlines Reporting Corporation’s (ARC) data, Italy is up 82 percent year on year for U.S. travelers this summer (for travel between Memorial Day and Labor Day).*

“Renting a villa in Italy allows visitors to live like the locals, something a hotel or resort can’t offer,” said Steve Lassman, vice president of villa product and agency relations. “Our villa guests are able to immerse themselves in the exquisite Italian culture with wine tastings, farm to table experiences, truffle hunting, al fresco dining and so much more.”

Tuscany is well known as a hot spot for summer travel to Italy, but there is still some availability at these two villas within the Villas of Distinction portfolio.

The area in Tuscany where villa Rubirossa is located is known for producing prestigious wines. Once a simple country house, Rubirossa has been converted to a welcoming and enhanced accommodation with a private vegetable garden, ancient olive trees and immaculate vineyards. Guests can enjoy the nearby Bolgheri Nature Reserve and the Rimigliano Coastal Park which are perfect for hiking, bird watching, and nature photography.

Villa Aurelisia, also in Tuscany, can host up to 16 guests and is just less than 20 minutes away from, San Miniato, a medieval hilltop town where guests can immerse themselves in the Italian culture at the local food markets and restaurants. This villa is especially appealing for groups or families as its annex offers guests additional space and privacy, allowing a greater level of independence and flexibility.

According to the American Express Travel’s 2023 Global Travel Trends Report, “Travelers who decided to go to Sicily this year may have made their decision after watching the second season of ‘The White Lotus,’ demonstrating another trend called Set Jetting-flocking to places that they’ve seen onscreen, either TV, movies or social media.”

Located in Mondello, less than seven miles from Palermo, the capital city of the Italian island of Sicily, Raggiosa, sits on a long stretch of white sand beach with crystal-clear waters. This is the perfect location for guests who want to swim, sunbathe and enjoy water sports such as windsurfing and kiteboarding, while also having the opportunity to experience the natural beauty and culture of Sicily.

Olgian, which recently underwent a renovation, is tucked away in an enchanted corner of Malfa overlooking the sapphire blue Mediterranean Sea and Panarea, an ancient island paradise. Guests can also see the incendiary volcano Stromboli in the distance. This location gives visitors the opportunity to explore by making it easy to island-hop and visit the other six islands of the Aeolian archipelagos trying authentic food, excellent wines and visiting Volcanic beaches.

For more information or to find out about summer availability in other European countries, visit VillasofDistinction.com or call 800-289-0900.

*US Travelers Target Europe For Summer 2023 Vacations
**Just Released: American Express Reveals The Latest Trends In Travel

About Villas of Distinction_®
Villas of Distinction_®, as part of World Travel Holdings, is an award-winning, full-service villa experience creator with a portfolio of thousands of privately-owned villas in more than 52 destinations worldwide including the United States, Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, Central America, and beyond. Many villas feature excellent staff and state-of-the-art amenities – like private pools, home theaters, in-villa game rooms, and fitness centers. The luxury villa provider has gained its guests’ trust by ensuring every villa meets strict standards so that each home exceeds expectations. Since 1989, the Villas of Distinction team have made vacation planning effortless by pairing travelers find their perfect vacation home and curating one-of-a-kind getaways at the world’s top villas. Travel Advisors have named Villas of Distinction as the Gold winner for “Best Villa Rental Company Overall” in the annual Travvy Awards since 2015. www.VillasofDistinction.com.

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New Groups Application, Network Success Headlines 2023 Group Summit

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (May 23, 2023) – Dream Vacations/CruiseOne^®, a leading travel agency franchise, proudly announces record-breaking group sales in its history for the year-to-date in 2023. The company has sold more affinity groups this year compared to the same time last year. This remarkable achievement can be attributed to the game-changing new groups application, empowering franchise owners with unparalleled success.

The launch of Dream Vacations/CruiseOne’s innovative group application in February revolutionized the way franchise owners manage group bookings. The streamlined and intuitive platform has simplified the booking process, enabling franchise owners to focus on what they do best, providing remarkable experiences to their customers.

“We are thrilled to see how much of a difference-maker the new groups application is on our franchise owners’ group sales,” said Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager of Dream Vacations/CruiseOne. “The success of the new application is a testament to our commitment to innovation and offering our franchise owners the latest tools and technology to take their group business to the next level.”

This remarkable achievement was celebrated during the recent two-day virtual Group Summit for Dream Vacations/CruiseOne travel advisors. More than 200 franchise owners and associates from across the country participated in the event, gaining invaluable insights and practical tips to elevate their group sales to new heights. The summit featured engaging presentations and breakout sessions, providing attendees with the opportunity to hear directly from suppliers and headquarters staff. Noteworthy sessions included “How to Negotiate with Group Leaders and Create the Win-Win Relationship,” “New Marketing Group Assets,” “Unraveling the Mysteries of Group Contracts to Reduce Risk and Maximize Success,” “Managing Group Communication,” and “Top 10 Tips for the New Groups Application.”

During the summit, the Dream Vacations/CruiseOne marketing team made several exciting announcements. Franchise owners can now take advantage of the following marketing assets to further enhance their group sales:

• Custom Group Registration Landing Page Graphics: Create a custom landing page that highlights your groups – leverage pre-designed banners or create and upload your own, creating a professional and enticing user experience.
• Email and Landing Page Templates: Professionally designed email and landing page templates, enabling franchise owners to create captivating and effective marketing campaigns with ease.
• Homepage and Email Banners: Eye-catching banners that can be incorporated into franchise owners’ websites and email communications, promoting group travel opportunities, and generating excitement among customers.
• Postcard: A custom-designed postcard, allowing franchise owners to reach out to potential group leaders and showcase the benefits of planning group vacations through Dream Vacations/CruiseOne.
• Social Media Posts: Engaging and shareable social media posts that franchise owners can leverage to expand their reach, attract new group leaders, and promote their expertise in planning unforgettable group vacations.

Franchise owners were captivated by real-life success stories shared during the summit. “The Group Summit was worth every minute of my time. The variety of topics from suppliers and staff members answered a lot of questions that I needed answered to scale my business,” said Lillie West, a Dream Vacations franchise owner from Waldorf, Md. “The groups application and the Group Summit have given me the confidence to step out and take on more group business.”

The 2023 Dream Vacations/CruiseOne Training and Events schedule features the upcoming 2^nd annual Marketing Summit June 13 and 14. This event will provide franchise owners with cutting-edge marketing strategies to drive even greater success in their businesses.

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

About Dream Vacations and 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 and CruiseOne franchisees have the resources to plan and create seamless vacation experiences for their customers while offering the best value. Dream Vacations and CruiseOne 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, 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 www.youtube.com/DreamVacationsBusiness.

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