Top travel agency franchise for veterans has given away 66 free home-based travel businesses since 2012 

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (December 16, 2025) – One of the leading travel agency franchises for veterans, Dream Vacations, recently awarded two military veterans with free travel franchises as part of its 14^th annual award-winning business plan contest “Operation Vetrepreneur: Become Your Own General.” Currently more than 30 percent of franchise owners within Dream Vacations are military veterans and in the past decade, the travel agency franchise has awarded 66 free franchises valued at more than $800,000 to deserving military veterans. For the first time, this year’s recipients also won a complimentary Carnival cruise that includes an ocean view stateroom for two on sailings up to eight days, as part of their grand prize package.

“Our veterans bring a lot of passion, enthusiasm, and determination to everything they do, and that energy shines through when they become small business owners,” said Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager for Dream Vacations. “Since launching the contest, Operation Vetrepreneur has provided us with the opportunity to show our gratitude to veterans and open a door to a new career path filled with community, support, and limitless potential. I can’t wait to see what this year’s winners accomplish with their businesses.”

The Dream Vacations franchise contest was 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. Candidates participated in a rigorous three-part application process which included creating a business plan, video essay and phone interviews. More than 5,000 people have applied for franchise ownership through Operation Vetrepreneur since 2012.

This year’s winners are U.S. Coast Guard Reserve Johnny Zeng, Huntersville, N.C., and U.S. Navy Veteran Katie Cox of League City, Texas.

“We’re excited to serve others and broaden perspectives by opening the world through travel while bringing clarity and confidence to every itinerary. Our goal is to help travelers navigate a DIY world overflowing with options, secure meaningful perks, and advocate when plans change so every trip is seamless, cost-effective, and turns imagination into reality,” said Johnny and Jessica Zeng. “Entrepreneurship also gives our family the flexibility we want with two kids and the chance to build something together that brings joy to others.”

All military veterans who purchase a Dream Vacations travel agency business receive a 30 percent discount off the initial franchisee fee. Veterans also receive an enlistment package valued at more than $5,000, which includes waived administrative fees valued at $1,350. 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.

As the only travel franchise to receive a 5 STAR ranking from VetFran, Dream Vacations proudly supports military veterans and is consistently recognized by leading industry publications as a veteran-friendly franchise. It has been ranked the #1 franchise for veterans in the travel agency category by Entrepreneur magazine the last 9 years. Other recent number one rankings include Military Times and Forbes. Additional recognitions include inclusion on G.I. Jobs annual “Hot Franchises for Veterans,” US Veterans magazine’s “Top Veteran-Friendly Companies”, USA Today’s “50 Top Franchises for Military Veterans” and recognition by MSC Cruises in its Seaside Salute Award. The Operation Vetrepreneur program won gold from the Travel Weekly Magellan Awards and the IFA Franchising Gives Back Awards.

Dream Vacations is committed to being “Rich in Diversity” and empowers all owners, franchisees and employees to reach their highest potential by leveraging their broad range of talent, experiences, personalities, viewpoints and ideas to generate business growth.

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

About Dream Vacations
Dream Vacations is a home-based travel agency franchise that gives its advisors everything they need to plan smooth and memorable vacations for their clients—all while delivering great value. As part of World Travel Holdings and a proud member of the International Franchise Association, Dream Vacations has earned top honors, including franchise partner of the year from major cruise lines. The franchise is also nationally recognized for its strong commitment to supporting military veterans. For more details, visit www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com. You can also connect with Dream Vacations on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

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Based on sales, bookings and digital engagement data, these destinations are growing in popularity 

Wakefield, Mass. (December 11, 2025) – Villas of Distinction®, the premier luxury villa provider, is spotlighting destinations projected to trend in 2026. Several emerging hot spots are set to offer fresh and unique experiences for travelers seeking something new.

A destination’s rise in popularity is often driven by factors such as increased accessibility, distinctive cultural experiences and growing interest from travelers eager for new adventures. Based on current travel patterns and growth indicators, Villas of Distinction has identified several locations expected to see notable momentum.

“We’re seeing remarkable growth in emerging markets such as Barbados, Spain, Portugal, Los Cabos, and Belize, where booking and engagement trends are climbing year-over-year,” said Jamie Cash, chief operating officer for Villas of Distinction. “As traveler interest evolves, our goal remains the same: to deliver exceptional villa experiences in the world’s most sought-after destinations.”

Top Destinations to Watch in 2026 

• Barbados is emerging as a top villa destination for 2026, thanks to rising demand for private, high-end accommodations. With its world-class beaches and exceptional service culture, the island delivers the luxury and ease today’s travelers want most.
• Belize, known for its eco-tourism and natural beauty, is rebounding in traveler interest for immersive, nature-driven vacations. Guests enjoy spacious villas at a more approachable price point than many Caribbean markets.
• Los Cabos continues to attract luxury travelers with its dramatic landscapes and villas with sweeping ocean views. It’s a destination where effortless luxury meets unforgettable experiences.
• Portugal is gaining momentum among travelers drawn to its rich history, vibrant culture, and scenic coastlines. Villa stays are gaining a growing reputation, natural scenery and soulful experiences make it a standout European escape.
• Spain remains one of the strongest performers in Europe, enticing visitors with diverse regions, culinary experiences, and historic sites. Spain remains a top choice for travelers seeking both relaxation and rich, local experiences.

These insights provide valuable guidance for travelers planning future vacations. Villas of Distinction remains committed to delivering expert recommendations and resources to elevate the travel-planning experience.

Explore the next dream villa experience in one of these sought-after locations by contacting a travel advisor, visiting VillasofDistinction.com, or calling 1-800-289-0900.

About Villas of Distinction_®
Villas of Distinction_®, as part of World Travel Holdings, is an award-winning, full-service villa experience creator with an exclusive portfolio of vetted and inspected villas in more than 60 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 1988, the Villas of Distinction team has made vacation planning effortless by helping 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 a “Best Villa Rental Company Overall” winner in the annual Travvy Awards since 2015. www.VillasofDistinction.com

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Travel advisors gain smarter tools, innovative programs, and immersive learning opportunities tailored to every stage of their business

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (December 4, 2025) – Building on the momentum of its 2025 National Conference, Dream Vacations/CruiseOne is accelerating its commitment to travel advisor education with an expanded catalogue of award-winning training programs and a robust 2026 events and training calendar. From AI-powered innovations to new certifications and advisor-focused learning series, the brand continues to invest in helping franchise owners succeed at every stage of their business.

The franchisor’s innovative AI Assistant Learning Center, recently earning a Travel Weekly Silver Magellan Award, reflects the brand’s forward-thinking approach to education. The redesigned platform harnesses artificial intelligence to personalize learning and equip advisors with real-world sales tools, including airfare, shore excursions, and product matching, giving advisors the insights they need to deliver remarkable customer experiences.

“Every milestone in training is a steppingstone toward confidence, community, and success. What makes our training programs so powerful is that they’re built around connection,” said Charity Santiago, vice president of training and events for Dream Vacations/CruiseOne. “Connection to resources, to our team, and to one another. Our events bring the network together to share ideas, learn new strategies, and celebrate success. It’s that spirit of collaboration that transforms training into lasting impact.”

A cornerstone of the Dream Vacations/CruiseOne learning collection is its award-winning training curriculum. This includes the Business Intensive, Cruise Control Intensive, Foundation and Masterclass Series, designed to support advisors from their first booking through advanced business growth:

• Business Intensive – A 3-day training class focusing on essential topics for business ownership, such as database mining, market analysis, sales reporting, commission tracking, marketing trends, and more.

• Cruise Control Intensive – A deep dive into Cruise Control, the franchisor’s proprietary booking engine, designed for agents who want to master the tool and stay on top of new updates.

• Foundation Series– A monthly webinar series hosted by the training team, covering the essential knowledge every advisor needs to begin their business with confidence. Topics include the network’s proprietary booking engine, qualifying, supplier selection, travel requirements (such as passports and visas), quoting, payments, and more.

• Masterclass Series – Curated for seasoned travel advisors, this monthly series features parent company, World Travel Holdings leadership and special travel industry guest speakers diving deep into budgeting, leadership, team building, industry trends, advanced marketing, groups, personal branding, entrepreneurship, and learning theory that equips franchise owners with high-level strategies to scale their businesses.

These programs complement Dream Vacations’/CruiseOne’s expanding library of destination certifications, including newly launched Caribbean, Alaska, and Hawaii certifications, each along with upcoming 2026 content such as:

• AI Decoded: Expert Knowledge for Everyday Innovators
• AI Unlocked: Foundations for the Future
• Europe Travel Certification
• Travel Fraud Awareness & Prevention
• Launch Your Own Travel Club: Build Loyalty, Boost Bookings & Create Community

These additions reinforce the franchisor’s commitment to equipping travel advisors with technical expertise and entrepreneurial skills that drive results.

Looking Ahead: 2026 Events and Continued Learning
Education and connection remain at the forefront of Dream Vacations’/CruiseOne’s 2026 event lineup. Whether in-person or virtual, every event is built to foster collaboration, spark new ideas, and empower franchise owners to take their business to the next level.

• Six Regional Trainings Nationwide:
  • Fort Lauderdale Regional Training
  • Austin Regional Training
  • Philadelphia Regional Training
  • Phoenix Regional Training
  • Kansas City Regional Training
  • Virtual Regional Training

• Immersive Education Series:
  • River Summit aboard Viking River Cruises (Mainz to Amsterdam)
  • Luxury Summit at The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe
  • MarTech Summit
  • Groups Summit
  • Land Summit at Princess Grand Jamaica

• 2026 National Conference – Setting sail aboard Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas.

At the 2025 Dream Vacations and CruiseOne® National Conference, the organization proudly announced it is the first Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Premier Agency Member (PAM) to offer advisors the ability to earn CLIA elective credits. As part of its CLIA Premier Agency Member status, advisors also receive four complimentary CLIA courses, accelerating their progress toward certification and enhancing their professional credibility. These benefits give Dream Vacations and CruiseOne franchise owners a meaningful competitive advantage as they grow their businesses.

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

About Dream Vacations and CruiseOne®
Dream Vacations and CruiseOne® are home-based travel agency franchises that give their advisors the flexibility to run their businesses their way. CruiseOne, established in 1992, and Dream Vacations, introduced in 2016, provide advisors with powerful tools and resources to plan seamless, personalized travel experiences. As part of World Travel Holdings, they have been named franchise partner of the year by major cruise lines and are recognized for their dedication to supporting military veterans. Find out more at www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com. Connect with them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

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Guests can choose up to $2,000 in cashback on luxury villa vacations

Wakefield, Mass. (November 20, 2025) – Villas of Distinction®, the premier luxury villa provider, is offering travelers two Cyber Week deals this holiday season. Guests who book a villa between Nov. 23 and Dec. 6, 2025, for travel through Dec. 31, 2026, can earn up to $2,000 in cashback paid upon deposit.

“There’s no better time than Cyber Week to plan a villa getaway,” said Jamie Cash, chief operating officer for Villas of Distinction. “It’s the perfect opportunity for guests to get an even greater value on their next villa vacation.”

Villas of Distinction’s portfolio includes thousands of privately owned villas across more than 50 destinations worldwide. Many feature amenities such as private pools, home theaters, game rooms and professional staff. Every booking includes access to the company’s concierge team, who can coordinate details such as yacht charters, excursions and grocery pre-stocking.

Cashback Offer:

Booking Value	Villas of Distinction Visa Prepaid Card
$5,000 – $15,000	$150
$15,001 – $25,000	$250
$25,001 – $35,000	$350
$35,001 – $50,000	$500
$50,001 – $75,000	$750
$75,001 – $100,000	$1,000
$100,001 +	$2,000

For more information about our exclusive Cyber Week offers, please visit www.VillasofDistinction.com or call 800-289-0900.

*Direct Guests Terms and Conditions:
Offer valid for new bookings made between 11/23/25 – 12/06/25 for travel between 11/24/25 – 12/31/26. Amount is based on the base villa cost only. Minimum booking value applies. Cash back will be paid in a Villas of Distinction Visa® Prepaid Card upon deposit. Villas of Distinction Visa® Prepaid Card is issued by MetaBank®, N.A., Member FDIC, pursuant to a license from Visa U.S.A. Inc. No cash access or recurring payments. Can be used everywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. Card valid for up to 12 months; unused funds will forfeit after the valid thru date. Card terms and conditions apply. Offer is valid for travel advisors’ clients. The Villas of Distinction Prepaid Card will be mailed directly to the travel advisors’ client within 30 days of deposit. Client mailing address must be provided. May not be combinable with other offers. All offers are subject to availability and may not apply to all villas or travel dates. Other restrictions may apply; please call for full details.

About Villas of Distinction_®
Villas of Distinction_®, as part of World Travel Holdings, is an award-winning, full-service villa experience creator with an exclusive portfolio of vetted and inspected villas in more than 60 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 1988, the Villas of Distinction team has made vacation planning effortless by helping 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 a “Best Villa Rental Company Overall” winner in the annual Travvy Awards since 2015. www.VillasofDistinction.com

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More than $118,000 raised for Make-A-Wish^® Southern Florida and $15,000 raised for Hurricane Melissa Relief

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (November 17, 2025) – The grand finale of the 2025 Dream Vacations and CruiseOne National Conference aboard the Star Princess was marked by an engaging fireside chat between World Travel Holdings Co-CEO/Chairman Brad Tolkin and Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager for Dream Vacations and CruiseOne. The discussion provided an in-depth look at key industry trends, the state of leisure travel, and actionable strategies to help travel advisors thrive in an ever-changing customer-centric marketplace.

Tolkin shared his perspective on why leisure travel continues to surge even amid economic uncertainty, pointing to shifting consumer priorities and a cultural embrace of travel as an essential part of life. “We’re seeing consumers redefine what truly matters,” said Tolkin. ” Travel has become more than a luxury – it’s a necessity for connection, renewal, and creating lasting memories. Even as other sectors struggle, the demand for travel remains strong. Advisors in this room are at the center of this movement, helping travelers navigate choices, find value, and design experiences that enrich their lives. The fish are biting – our opportunity has never been greater.”

Tolkin went on to highlight that this trend is not cyclical, but structural, fueled by a cultural shift where travel is now viewed as an investment in personal well-being and family connection. He also addressed the growing focus on sustainable tourism, the importance of destination management, and the increasing value of travel insurance in today’s environment.

During his fireside chat, Tolkin underscored that personal relationships continue to be the greatest differentiator for travel advisors competing against direct-to-consumer platforms. “The human touch will never go out of style,” he noted. “Our repeat rates outpace the direct-to-consumer market because travelers trust their advisors to provide insight, advocacy, and care that AI alone can’t replicate.”

Daly echoed this message of optimism, emphasizing the importance of focus, passion, and purpose citing specific success stories to paint the picture that there are many paths forward. “To achieve success, it’s about being intentional with your choices, staying focused on your goals, and loving what you do,” said Daly. “The advisors in our network are thriving because they’re not just selling travel – they’re building relationships, experiences, and communities.”

The fireside chat ended with a forward-looking discussion about the role of technology, including AI and automation, and how it can empower advisors rather than replace them. Tolkin and Daly encouraged attendees to continue adopting the growth-focused tools provided by the MarTech team and educational programs from the training team to enhance efficiency, client engagement, and long-term growth.

To close out the 2025 National Conference, Daly was joined on stage by Debbie Fiorino, chief operating officer for Dream Vacations and CruiseOne, to reflect on their favorite moments and key takeaways, reinforcing how the event embodies the organizations’ core values of learning, connection and giving back. One of the most inspiring moments was Gary Sadler’s, executive vice president of sales and industry relations at Unique Vacations Inc., who delivered an impactful and inspirational presentation about the impact of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica. Tolkin committed to donating $15,000 on behalf of World Travel Holdings to the Sandals Foundation to help affected communities recover and rebuild stronger after the devastation from Hurricane Melissa.

Continuing a long-standing tradition of giving back, Dream Vacations and CruiseOne once again supported Make-A-Wish^® Southern Florida, raising more than $118,000 during the conference. Fundraising events included a lively dance-off, a 50/50 raffle, and a silent auction, allowing attendees to actively participate in supporting this meaningful cause. Over the course of a 14-year partnership, World Travel Holdings has raised more than $2 million to help make dreams come true for children facing critical illnesses.

“National Conference is an opportunity for our family to come together and celebrate what makes our network special,” said Daly. “We leave this week inspired, connected, and ready to keep thriving into 2026 and beyond.”

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

About Dream Vacations and CruiseOne®
Dream Vacations and CruiseOne® are home-based travel agency franchises that give their advisors the flexibility to run their businesses their way. CruiseOne, established in 1992, and Dream Vacations, introduced in 2016, provide advisors with powerful tools and resources to plan seamless, personalized travel experiences. As part of World Travel Holdings, they have been named franchise partner of the year by major cruise lines and are recognized for their dedication to supporting military veterans. Find out more at www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com. Connect with them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

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Milestone marks a new standard in travel advisor training and professional certification

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (November 14, 2025) – Dream Vacations and CruiseOne® have set a new standard in travel industry education, becoming the first Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Premier Agency Member (PAM) to earn CLIA elective credits for their franchise training program. Charity Santiago, Vice President of Training and Events, made the announcement during Friday’s general session of the 2025 Dream Vacations and CruiseOne National Conference.

This unprecedented recognition underscores the depth and quality of the Dream Vacations and CruiseOne Initial Training curriculum, which guides new franchise owners through business setup, travel industry fundamentals, sales mastery, and the use of proprietary booking tools.

The evaluation process, conducted by CLIA’s Senior Manager of Industry Training, Maria Fonseca, assessed the program’s multi-phase structure—including online foundational learning, live instructor-led training, and an onboard ship inspection. As a result, participants who complete the program now earn 40 CLIA elective credits and one ship inspection credit, fulfilling more than half of the requirements toward achieving CLIA’s prestigious Certified Cruise Counselor (CCC) certification.

“This milestone underscores our mission to elevate professional standards in cruise sales and support our CLIA Premier Members with forward-thinking recognition of educational excellence,” said Charles Sylvia, ECC, vice president, industry and trade relations, CLIA. “By awarding elective credits to Dream Vacations and CruiseOne’s Initial Training, we’re empowering new franchise owners to accelerate their careers and reinforcing the value of certified cruise travel expertise across our community.”

The redesigned training program reflects a thoughtful approach to supporting franchisees in their dual roles as both business owners and travel advisors. Phase 1 focuses on Franchise Foundations, covering key topics like business setup, ethics, and operational excellence, while Phase 2 transitions advisors into confident sellers through instructor-led sessions on sales techniques, destination expertise, and Cruise Control, the franchisor’s proprietary booking engine.

“We’ve redefined what professional travel education looks like,” said Charity Santiago, vice president of training and events for Dream Vacations/CruiseOne. “From day one, you gain CLIA elective credits, real-world experience, and structured learning that blends foundational business skills with travel expertise. This isn’t orientation—it’s a launchpad for building a profitable travel business with recognized industry credentials and a competitive edge.”

As a CLIA Premier Agency Member, Dream Vacations and CruiseOne advisors also receive four complimentary CLIA courses, further accelerating their progress toward certification and professional mastery. Together, these opportunities empower franchise owners with both practical knowledge and recognized credentials—giving them a significant competitive advantage as they grow their businesses.

For more information about franchising opportunities with Dream Vacations and CruiseOne, visit www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com.

About Dream Vacations and CruiseOne®
Dream Vacations and CruiseOne® are home-based travel agency franchises that give their advisors the flexibility to run their businesses their way. CruiseOne, established in 1992, and Dream Vacations, introduced in 2016, provide advisors with powerful tools and resources to plan seamless, personalized travel experiences. As part of World Travel Holdings, they have been named franchise partner of the year by major cruise lines and are recognized for their dedication to supporting military veterans. Find out more at www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com. Connect with them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

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Kevin and Donna Gott Take Home 2025 Rookie of the Year Honor 

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (November 13, 2025) – It was a star-studded and touching evening filled with laughter, tears, and awe at the Dream Vacations and CruiseOne^® annual awards ceremony hosted by Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager and  Joelle Delva, vice president of operations. The interactive and engaging ceremony featured mesmerizing performances thanks to the wonderous talent onboard the Star Princess.

The Franchise of the Year Award was re-named the Bobbye Haupt Franchise of the Year Award in memory of a beloved franchisee who passed away in September 2021. She led by example, inspired many, and left a legacy in our network. Under the leadership of franchise owners Amy and Michael Madson, Madson & Associates was recognized as this year’s Bobbye Haupt Franchise of the Year.

“This award is more than a milestone—it’s a reminder of how far we’ve come and how much this community means to us,” said Amy Madson. “Dream Vacations has been our home for so many years, and it’s where our passion for travel turned into a lifelong mission to help others do the same.” 

Madson & Associates, led by franchise owners Amy and Michael Madson, has become one of Dream Vacations’ most inspiring success stories. Amy began her career in hospitality, working in theme parks, restaurants, hotels, and family entertainment centers with a specialty in training and operations. She and her husband, Michael, launched their travel agency 23 years ago while continuing to work full-time. Over the years, they have grown their business from original host agency Cruises Inc. to a thriving Dream Vacations franchise with a talented team specializing in river cruise, land, and custom travel.

A passionate mentor and respected leader, Amy serves on the ASTA Central Florida Chapter board, helping coordinate local events for travel professionals, and is an active member of both CLIA and ASTA. She has served as a certified spokesperson for Dream Vacations, a member of the IT Committee, and both a prior and current member of the Training & Events Committee.

Madson & Associates Dream Vacations has achieved Circle of Excellence honors every year since 2021 and continues to be recognized for excellence in sales, marketing, and engagement. Amy was also the recipient of the 2024 OPAL Award for Outstanding Performance and Leadership, reflecting her dedication to mentoring others and elevating the advisor community.

Based in Orlando, Fla., Amy and Michael lead by example—escorting groups, exploring new destinations, and maintaining a deep commitment to client satisfaction. Their business has evolved from serving short contemporary cruise clients to curating luxury and small-ship travel experiences, earning a reputation for exceptional service and trusted expertise.

Dream Vacations is also proud to recognize Kevin and Donna Gott as the recipients of the 2025 Rookie of the Year Award, honoring a new franchise owner who demonstrates exceptional growth, engagement, and commitment to service excellence.

Based in Livermore, Calif., Kevin and Donna bring a lifetime of leadership and dedication to their travel business. After serving more than 30 years in law enforcement, the Gotts have channeled their shared love of world exploration into helping clients discover the joy of travel. Since launching their Dream Vacations franchise, they have quickly distinguished themselves through outstanding customer care, community involvement, and a passion for creating meaningful, memory-making experiences for their clients.

“Travel has been our passion since the day we met,” said Kevin and Donna Gott. “After three decades of serving our community, it’s an incredible feeling to now serve people in a different way—by helping them explore the world and build memories with their families. This award is such an honor, and we’re grateful to be part of a network that shares our belief that travel is one of life’s best investments.”

The onboard ceremony honored departmental awards where advisors were recognized for their sales, marketing, public relations, social media, IT, and more. The ceremony also recognized those who served the network by participating on the advisory council, those with milestone anniversaries, and top-producing advisors, and more.

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

About Dream Vacations and CruiseOne®
Dream Vacations and CruiseOne® are home-based travel agency franchises that give their advisors the flexibility to run their businesses their way. CruiseOne, established in 1992, and Dream Vacations, introduced in 2016, provide advisors with powerful tools and resources to plan seamless, personalized travel experiences. As part of World Travel Holdings, they have been named franchise partner of the year by major cruise lines and are recognized for their dedication to supporting military veterans. Find out more at www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com. Connect with them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

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Marketing and Technology Join Forces to Empower Advisors and Drive Record Results 

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (November 12, 2025) – Dream Vacations and CruiseOne are celebrating a landmark year of advisor success driven by strong collaboration between the marketing and technology (MarTech) teams. Vice President of Marketing Alicia Linden and Vice President of Information Technology Sandi Szalay took centerstage at the Dream Vacations and CruiseOne National Conference on the Star Princess to highlight how new tools and enhancements are helping advisors connect with customers, build their brands, and increase sales.

“Our network is thriving. This year proved that when you combine the right MarTech tools, and creativity, growth follows,” said Linden. “Our advisors are busier than ever and continue to increase sales year over year, which is why working smarter has never been more important.”

What We’ve Accomplished: Making Waves in Travel Innovation
Since the 2024 National Conference, Dream Vacations and CruiseOne have continued to enhance the advisor experience with game-changing tools and programs including:

• Transformative Website Enhancements – The updated website with custom pages, built-in blogs, and an immersive content management tool has driven a 50 percent increase in traffic.
• National Brand Visibility – Dream Vacations investment in streaming TV advertisements and regional digital campaigns take brand exposure to the next-level.
• Exclusive HQ Funded Promotions – Dream Vacations’ and CruiseOne’s fully-funded promotions continue to deliver significant booking volume for advisors.
• More Qualified Leads – The Agent Directory has increased lead generation by 50 percent, connecting advisors with more potential clients.
• AI Search Assistant within its Business Center – This feature is designed to make navigating resources more intuitive by allowing advisors to ask questions naturally. AI learns and adapts, delivering increasingly relevant results and saving valuable time.
• AI Learning Assistant within its Learning Center – This 2025 Silver Travel Weekly Magellan Award-winning tool allows travel advisors to quickly seek help finding relevant training or receiving concise course summaries with step-by-step instructions.
• Marketing Campaign Builder with AI – Advisors can quickly build and execute full marketing campaigns including blog content, landing pages, emails, social media posts and more.
• AI Tailored Itinerary Builders – Travel itinerary content and supplier integrations have been combined with the power of AI so advisors can import bookings and itinerary information faster than ever.
• Smarter Marketing Decisions – Advisors can activate performance tagging on their websites to access real-time Google and Meta analytics, giving them true ROI visibility and empowering smarter, data-driven ad spend.
• Automated Engagement, Elevated Results – Enhanced email automation is driving stronger subscriber interaction and conversions.
• Seamless Group Payments – Travelers can now pay online for group trips creating a smoother booking experience.
• More Efficient Group Management – Advisors can now edit multiple group bookings at once, saving time and reducing manual work. 

“Turnkey MarTech solutions help our business thrive from anywhere in the world – giving us the tools to balance our clients’ needs while freeing time to live our nomadic lifestyle,” said Kara Roundtree, a Dream Vacations franchise owner.

What’s New: Enhancements on the Horizon
A new round of updates is underway to help advisors work smarter and deliver even more personalized travel experiences:

• Proprietary Booking Engine Transformation:
  • More Intuitive Workflow – Updated processes and customization options will reduce clicks and streamline the booking journey.
  • New Navigation and Intelligent Global Search – This new functionality will introduce faster access to features across the CRM and booking tools.
  • Franchise Metrics – Advisors will have access to more detailed franchise and individual performance insights at a glance.
  • Smart Tables – This feature will make managing data easier than ever for advisors with quick sorting and filtering, easily accessible calls to action and customizable views based on preferred workflow.
• Personalized Marketing Videos – Advisors can now customize videos for social media and TV advertisements.
• Updated Quote with Online Payment Option – An online quote that can be customized by travel advisors, features an online payment option and displays bonus offers, ultimately spiking sales.
• Introducing Land-Only Email Subscription – Advisors will have hyper-personalized control for how they market land-only products to their clients. This feature grants advisors the flexibility to pursue their specific niches.

“Our MarTech tools are designed to save advisors time, increase efficiency, and simplify daily tasks so they can focus on what matters most — their clients,” added Szalay. “When technology removes friction behind the scenes, it gives advisors more time to grow their business and live the lifestyle they’ve envisioned.”

Looking Ahead
Dream Vacations and CruiseOne remain focused on providing tools and support to help advisors thrive in today’s travel landscape. The MarTech Summit will return in 2026, offering hands-on learning, advanced marketing strategies, and new technology resources.

“This is just the beginning,” added Linden. “We understand that each business in our network is unique, which is why we don’t settle for a one-size-fits-all approach. We continue to seek out tailor-made MarTech solutions that empower our network to launch and promote their businesses in the way that best suits their individual goals.”

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

About Dream Vacations and CruiseOne®
Dream Vacations and CruiseOne® are home-based travel agency franchises that give their advisors the flexibility to run their businesses their way. CruiseOne, established in 1992, and Dream Vacations, introduced in 2016, provide advisors with powerful tools and resources to plan seamless, personalized travel experiences. As part of World Travel Holdings, they have been named franchise partner of the year by major cruise lines and are recognized for their dedication to supporting military veterans. Find out more at www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com. Connect with them on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube.

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 The Absolute Best in Travel as Awarded by Travel Advisors

Wakefield, Mass. (November 10, 2025) – Villas of Distinction_®, the world’s premier luxury villa rental company, has been awarded the gold statuette for Best Villa Rental Company – Overall at the 2025 Travvy Awards, marking it’s 10th consecutive year winning in this category!

The Travvy Awards, now in their 11th year, celebrate excellence across the global travel industry. The 2025 ceremony took place on Nov. 6 at the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention Center, during CruiseWorld, another event produced under TravelPulse’s parent company, Northstar Travel Group. Travel advisors, suppliers, and industry leaders gathered to honor companies and destinations that set the standard for innovation, service, and quality in travel.

“Winning Gold this year is incredibly special,” said Steve Lassman, vice president of villa product and agency relations for Villas of Distinction. “Our travel advisor partners are at the heart of everything we do, and this recognition is really a reflection of their loyalty and belief in us. We’re honored to work alongside such dedicated professionals who share our passion for creating unforgettable villa experiences.”

For more information, a breakdown of categories and to view the full list of winners, please visit www.TravvyAwards.com.

Travelers interested in booking a luxury villa should contact their travel advisor, visit   VillasofDistinction.com or call 800-289-0900.

About The TRAVVY Awards
The annual Travvy Awards, presented by TravelPulse, part of Northstar Travel Group, recognizes the highest standards of excellence in the travel industry by honoring travel companies and destinations for their outstanding achievement with this prestigious award. Thousands of votes — cast by the travel professionals who sell the vast majority of these trips to tens of millions of consumers yearly — determined the very best in the travel industry. The selections by advisors reflect the suppliers and destinations they believe provide outstanding service to their clients. For more information, please visit www.TravvyAwards.com

About Villas of Distinction®
Villas of Distinction®, as part of World Travel Holdings, is an award-winning, full-service villa experience creator with an exclusive portfolio of vetted and inspected villas in more than 60 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 1988, the Villas of Distinction team has made vacation planning effortless by helping 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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Travelers can secure their next cruise for as low as $25 

Wakefield, Mass. (November 10, 2025) – Cruises.com, one of the nation’s leading cruise vacation retailers, is kicking off the holiday savings season early, on November 10^th, giving travelers the opportunity to earn double Cruises.com Rewards Points and lock in select cruises for as low as $25 per cabin.

Available for a limited time, these exclusive offers apply to cruises departing through December 31, 2027, and features leading cruise lines including Royal Caribbean, Carnival, Norwegian, Celebrity, Princess, and Holland America. Travelers can double their rewards on qualifying bookings and secure future sailings with minimal upfront costs, making it easier than ever to plan a dream vacation.

Double Rewards, Minimal Cost 

These Cyber Deals are designed to maximize value without the financial commitment:

• Lock In for Just $25: Travelers can lock in a cruise for as little as $25 per cabin on select itineraries, covering a wide variety of destinations and durations through 2027. This removes the barrier to entry for booking a future trip.

• Double Rewards Points: Customers who book an eligible cruise will earn twice the rewards, which can be redeemed for valuable perks like onboard spending, cash back, and more. Points activate two months before departure, giving travelers time to enhance their experience before setting sail.
• Earn Twice: Not only will travelers earn Cruises.com Rewards points, but they will also earn cruise line loyalty benefits.
• Stackable Savings: These exclusive deals can be stacked on top of all the cruise line offers, ensuring customers receive the deepest discounts and most value available.

“Cyber Week is the perfect time for travelers to start planning ahead for their next cruise,” said Rosemarie Reed, senior vice president of marketing for Cruises.com. “With our Double Rewards promotion, guests can get more value from every booking, and the option to secure a cruise for just $25 makes reserving a dream vacation more accessible than ever.”

To find your next cruise and secure these limited-time offers, visit Cruises.com or call 1-800-288-6006 to speak with an expert Travel Advisor.

For full offer details, terms, and conditions, visit Cruises.com/promotion/terms-and-conditions.do.

About Cruises.com
Cruises.com is the smart way to book. Our team of Travel Experts makes it easy to find and book the perfect cruise, offering a seamless, stress-free experience. Customers enjoy all cruise line promotions plus unlock exclusive perks through Cruises.com Rewards. For more information, visit Cruises.com, like us on Facebook at Cruises.com, or follow us on Instagram@cruisescom.

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