Luxury villa brand praised for curated portfolio and personalized service 

Wakefield, Mass. (July 09, 2025) – Villas of Distinction®, an award-winning luxury villa rental brand, has earned a top spot in the 2025 Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, rising two spots to No. 3 among the best villa rental companies worldwide. This recognition reflects the brand’s continued investment in high-touch service, a growing portfolio, and strong relationships with the travel advisor community.

In a feature announcing the Villa Company winners, Travel + Leisure’s Sarah Bruning wrote: “The third edition of this category sees four out of five honorees return, mainly owing to their outstanding portfolios and strength of service. Case in point: Villas of Distinction, which rose two spots to No. 3. Operating in more than 50 destinations worldwide, it has an extensive roster of 2,500-plus handpicked properties, including nearly 1,500 in the Caribbean alone. The team’s high standards and attention to detail also make an impact.” One reader noted, “These villas are in some of the most beautiful places. They are well maintained and managed.”

“We are honored to be included among the world’s best travel companies,” said Steve Lassman, vice president of villa product and agency relations at Villas of Distinction. “This recognition reinforces our belief in personalized service, quality partnerships, and the continued importance of working with the travel advisor community to deliver dream vacations.”

Now in its 30th year, Travel + Leisure World’s Best Awards, annual readers’ survey, honors top destinations, hotels, airlines, cruise lines, and travel experiences as rated by its global audience. The survey offers a snapshot of how and where people are traveling today, reflecting both long-standing favorites and emerging trends across the industry.

To explore the complete list of winners and learn more about the award categories, please visit Travel+Leisure World’s Best Awards 2025.

Travel advisors who have clients interested in booking a luxury villa should visit VillasofDistinction.com or call 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 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 travel agency franchise launches 14^th annual “Operation Vetrepreneur: Become Your Own General” contest®

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (July 4, 2025) – Leading travel agency franchise Dream Vacations is recruiting military veterans to enlist in its 14^th annual, award-winning “Operation Vetrepreneur: Become Your Own General” contest and is accepting entries from now through September 1, 2025. The number one franchise opportunity for veterans will award three military veterans a free travel agency franchise, continuing a tradition that has given away 64 franchises valued at more than $787,200 dollars since the contest began in 2012.

For the first time, Dream Vacations franchise is partnering with Carnival Cruise Line® to provide this year’s three recipients with 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.

“At Carnival, honoring our military members and their families is a part of who we are. Our commitment goes beyond a single moment – it’s about creating a lasting tradition of gratitude,” said Janet Wygert, senior vice president of sales and trade marketing for Carnival Cruise Line. “From our Heroes Tribute Bar & Lounge, a popular venue on many of our ships that are dedicated to honoring our military heroes, to appreciation gatherings on every sailing and year-round community support for nonprofits and veterans, we strive to show our appreciation in meaningful ways. Through this partnership with Dream Vacations, we’re proud to give even more military members the chance to relax and recharge with the kind of fun only Carnival can deliver.”

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 the winners are selected. The entry form and all contest details can be found at www.operationvetrepreneur.com.

Three winners will be notified in September 2025. Each grand prize is valued at $12,300 and includes the Carnival cruise and 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’ve always had a passion for travel, especially cruising, and I’ve relished in the fact that cruise lines like Carnival go above and beyond to honor veterans. They do this not just through words and discounts, but through meaningful connections with veterans in onboard ceremonies and gatherings that create a real sense of community,” said Josh Bauer, Minnesota Army National Guard veteran and one of the 2024 Operation Vetrepreneur: Become Your Own General winners from Saint Cloud, Minn. “Dream Vacations didn’t just open a door, they flung it open by flying us to training, providing the necessary tools to own and operate a home-based travel agency, and then continuing to surround us with unmatched support. Now, just months into launching my franchise, I’m not only planning dream vacations but also sharing my cruise experiences with fellow veterans and educators, helping them discover the joy and incredible power of travel.”

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.

“At Dream Vacations, we’re proud to honor our military heroes—not just with words, but with real opportunities,” said Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager of Dream Vacations. “With Carnival joining us as a partner for the 2025 Operation Vetrepreneur: Become Your Own General contest, we’re more energized than ever to support veterans in building a successful future. This partnership strengthens our mission to give back to those who’ve served by helping them launch their own travel businesses and gain the freedom and flexibility they deserve.”

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 has ranked first or second out of 150 franchises nationwide in Entrepreneur magazine’s top franchise for veterans since 2017. Other recent number one rankings include Military Times and Forbes. In 2024, 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 Instagram at @official_dream_vacations and watch its videos at http://www.youtube.com/DreamVacationsBusiness.

About Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival Cruise Line, part of Carnival Corporation & plc (NYSE/LSE: CCL; NYSE: CUK), is the first cruise line to sail over 100 million guests and is proud to be known as America’s Cruise Line, for carrying more Americans and serving more U.S. homeports than any other. Since its founding in 1972, Carnival has continually revolutionized the cruise industry and popularized the cruise vacation as an affordable and fun travel option. Carnival operates from 13 U.S. and two Australian homeports, as well as seasonally from Europe and employs more than 50,000 team members representing 120 nationalities.

Carnival’s fleet of 29 ships reflects an exciting period of growth that continues with the addition of five ships through 2033: a fourth and fifth Excel class ship scheduled for 2027 and 2028 respectively; followed by three additional new ships from an innovative new class currently under development. Carnival’s next new guest offering will be the all-new exclusive destination, Celebration Key, set to debut on Grand Bahama this summer.

MEDIA CONTACT: media@carnival.com

Begins July 4^th, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. ET and ends September 1^nd, 2025 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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Annual survey includes the largest, most successful retailers in the industry

Wakefield, Mass. (July 1, 2025) – Industry powerhouse World Travel Holdings announces it ranked #16 in Travel Weekly’s 2025 Power List of the industry’s top retail travel agencies. The Power List is the definitive annual ranking of the travel industry’s top-selling retail agencies based on 2024 performance.

“Being recognized on this list year after year is truly an honor,” said Co-CEO for World Travel Holdings, Jeff Tolkin. “This achievement is a testament to the dedication of everyone involved with our company – our employees, suppliers, and all our customers, including our Dream Vacations and CruiseOne franchise owners, their associates, partner brands, and those who book their vacations directly with us. My brother Brad and I extend our heartfelt thanks to each person who contributes to our company’s success.”

Privately held World Travel Holdings, owned by Co-Chairmen/Co-CEOs Brad and Jeff Tolkin,  operates more than 35 travel brands which includes three in the United Kingdom, a top-rated travel agency franchise and the company is also the cruise vertical for 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.

Its Dream Vacations franchise provides owners live and virtual training opportunities, robust marketing assets, a dedicated Business Development Manager, support services and more. Each year, the franchisor fully funds $4 million in exclusive promotions, national branding, and marketing programs to help its network of travel advisors grow their business.

As it relates to its private label partners, corporations outsource their cruise and villa verticals to World Travel Holdings due to its size, which maximizes buying power and value creation for their customers, its technology, which is purpose built to handle private label accounts, and its customer centric reservations and operations.

In 2024, some of the company’s noteworthy developments include:

• Made a multimillion-dollar technology investment in its franchise brands Dream Vacations and CruiseOne.
• Redesigned Dream Vacations/CruiseOne’s website home page with an easy-to-use content management tool for its advisors.
• Launched a cruise vertical with Southwest Airlines.
• Introduced a marketing tool in Resort for a Day’s portal, making it easier for advisors to access and share promotional assets on social media.
• Villas of Distinction expanded its marketing and increased personnel dedicated to supporting its agency partners.

This year’s list features 70 companies, each of which recorded at least $125 million in gross travel sales — an increase from the $110 million threshold in last year’s Power List— highlighting the continued growth and concentration of influence among the industry’s most successful players.

To qualify for the 2025 Power List, agencies were required to report a minimum of $125 million in gross travel sales in 2024. Sales are defined as gross value of travel products sold worldwide, whether for leisure or corporate purposes, where the agency is the agent of record. Additionally, at least 15% of sales must have been generated within the U.S.

For a complete list visit https://www.travelweekly.com/Power-List-2025.

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.

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Live like a legend: Discover iconic luxury in celebrity-inspired villas 

Wakefield, Mass. (June 25, 2025) – Villas of Distinction®, the world’s premier luxury villa rental company, invites travelers to discover the epitome of luxury and exclusivity with its exceptional collection of celebrity-inspired villas. Perfect for exclusive group getaways, these properties offer unmatched experiences in some of the most stunning destinations around the world.

“Our collection of celebrity-inspired villas offers an unparalleled opportunity for groups to immerse themselves in luxury and iconic history,” said Jamie Cash, chief operating officer of Villas of Distinction. “These properties combine breathtaking design and world-class amenities with unique stories that create truly extraordinary group retreats.”

Featured Celebrity Retreats: 

Domaine Umbrella – Cote D’Azur, France

• Formerly the Kennedy family vacation home, the main house boasts nine bedrooms, each with an ensuite bathroom, ensuring comfort and privacy. This Domaine combines charm, authenticity, and tranquility, ideal for those seeking a serene haven on the French Riviera.
• Explore more: Domaine Umbrella 

Emara Estate – Providenciales, Turks and Caicos

• Formerly owned by the legendary musician Prince, Emara Estate is a luxurious beachfront property on the stunning shores of Providenciales. This expansive estate features exquisite indoor and outdoor spaces, a private pool, and direct access to the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. Perfect for larger groups, guests can bask in the serene atmosphere and vibrant beauty of this prestigious villa.
• Explore more: Emara Estate 

Invisible House – Joshua Tree, California

• Designed and owned by the producers of “American Psycho,” Chris and Roberta Hanley, the Invisible House is a modern marvel nestled in the breathtaking landscape of Joshua Tree. This architectural masterpiece features sleek, minimalist design with floor-to-ceiling windows, creating a seamless connection between the villa’s interior and the natural surroundings. Ideal for group getaways, it offers a unique retreat for those seeking both luxury and adventure.
• Explore more: Invisible House 

Necker Island – British Virgin Islands

• Owned by Sir Richard Branson, Necker Island offers two unique experiences: Celebration Weeks and Exclusive Use. Celebration Weeks provide an opportunity for groups to enjoy the island’s luxurious amenities and activities at a more accessible rate, while Exclusive Use grants private access to the entire island for an unparalleled retreat. This is the ultimate group getaway destination, combining luxury, privacy, and adventure.
• Explore more: Celebration Weeks and Exclusive Use

Villa Veneziano – Lefkada, Greece

• The villa is nestled within an expansive 2,000-square-meter garden—a lush, green sanctuary that enhances its sense of tranquility and exclusivity. Featuring five luxurious suites accommodating up to 12 guests, the villa was meticulously crafted in 2009 by Russian shipbroker Sergei Kauzov as a loving tribute to his late wife, Christina Onassis.
• Explore more: Villa Veneziano

Villas of Distinction invites groups to experience the glamour and exclusiveness of these celebrity-owned villas. Whether planning a family reunion, friends’ getaway, or corporate retreat, these properties offer the space, amenities, and services needed for an unforgettable stay.

For more information, contact your travel advisor or visit VillasofDistinction.com or call 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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Shorter stays, reduced deposits, and increased availability make luxury travel to Italy is more accessible than ever 

Wakefield, Mass. (June 3, 2025) – For travelers dreaming of an Italian getaway, there may be no better time to turn those dreams into reality. Villas of Distinction®, a leading luxury villa provider, is reporting that 2025 is the optimal time to book a luxury Italian villa. With reduced minimum night stays, flexible check-in dates, and lower deposit requirements, private villa travel is becoming increasingly accessible, without compromising on luxury or personalization.

In high-demand regions like Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, and Lake Como, many villas are offering shorter stays of four to five nights this year, a notable departure from the traditional Saturday-to-Saturday booking model.

“People often think they need to wait for the ‘perfect time’ to book Italy,” said Jamie Cash, chief operating officer of Villas of Distinction. “But with these flexible new options, a decrease in airline prices, reduced minimum-night stays, and reduced villa rates, that perfect moment is right now.”

These updates come at a time when more travelers are prioritizing space, privacy, and authentic experiences over traditional hotel stays. Villas offer fully curated accommodation, from private chefs and vineyard tours to in-villa cooking classes and dedicated concierge service.

For more information, contact your travel advisor or visit VillasofDistinction.com or call 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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Earn up to $5,000—paid upon deposit—on every new booking 

Wakefield, Mass. (May 29, 2025) – Villas of Distinction_®, the premier provider of luxury villa rentals worldwide, is extending its bonus commission offer — up to $5,000, paid to the advisor upon receipt of deposit — for every new booking made now through June 30, 2025, for travel through December 31, 2026.

This extended program reaffirms Villas of Distinction’s long-standing commitment to the travel advisor community. With a portfolio of handpicked villas across more than 55 global destinations and personalized concierge services that elevate every client’s stay, Villas of Distinction empowers advisors to deliver truly exceptional experiences, while rewarding them earlier and more generously than ever before.

“Travel advisors are the heart of our business,” said Steve Lassman, vice president of agency relations and villa product for Villas of Distinction. “By extending this offer, we’re not only thanking advisors for their trust and partnership — we’re reinforcing our commitment to their success in a meaningful and immediate way by paying well-earned bonus commission right at the time of deposit.”

Advisors can enhance this offer by pairing it with select villa promotions, such as complimentary nights, exclusive amenities, and special rates — unlocking even greater value for their clients’ next luxury escape.

For more information about this exclusive offer or to start booking today, visit VillasofDistinction.com or call 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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Canadian travel advisors recognize Villas of Distinction as the leading luxury villa rental company in 2025 

Wakefield, Mass. (May 21, 2025) – TravelPulse Canada readers have spoken, naming Villas of Distinction_® Villa Rental Company of the Year. This award recognizes Villas of Distinction’s outstanding performance, innovation, and service across the travel industry, spotlighting those who continue to shape and elevate the experience for vacationers and travel advisors alike.

Each year, TravelPulse Canada invites its readers to weigh in on their favorite travel experiences across the globe, spanning hotels, airlines, cruises, luxury accommodations, and travel service providers. Companies are rated based on service, value, and overall experience—an area where Villas of Distinction continues to exceed expectations.

“We are incredibly proud to receive this award from Canadian travel advisors,” said Steve Lassman, vice president of villa product and agency relations at Villas of Distinction. “This recognition reflects our commitment to providing our travel advisor partners and guests with the finest luxury villa experiences, paired with a personalized concierge service that goes beyond expectations. We believe that true luxury is not just about stunning properties, but the memories and moments created during each stay. This award is a tribute to our dedicated team and the trust our travel agency partners and guests place in us.”

This esteemed honor highlights Villas of Distinction’s ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional, tailor-made vacations. Featuring an expansive collection of stunning villas in many of the world’s most desirable locales, the brand is dedicated to crafting unforgettable getaways for every traveler.

To explore the complete list of winners and learn more about the award categories, please visit TravelPulse Canada.

For travelers seeking a one-of-a-kind villa vacation designed by a full-service team, Villas of Distinction offers an unmatched experience. A dedicated Villa Specialist helps match guests with their ideal destination, while a personal Concierge handles every detail—from excursions to in-villa amenities. To start planning your personalized escape, contact your travel advisor or visit VillasofDistinction.com or call 800-289-0900.

About TravelPulse Canada
TravelPulse Canada is the leading online news and information source for the Canadian travel trade. Offering the latest insights, trends, and updates on the travel industry, TravelPulse Canada delivers relevant content to Canadian travel professionals and keeps them informed on the latest developments shaping the market.

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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Nation’s Largest Cruise Agency and Award-Winning Leisure Travel Company Soars to #4 Finish

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (May 12, 2025) – World Travel Holdings, the parent company of South Florida-based Dream Vacations/CruiseOne, a homebased travel agency franchise, has been awarded a 2025 Top Workplaces honor by the Sun Sentinel for a record-setting 11^th year in a row (every year since the award’s inception). World Travel Holdings placed #4 out of the 44 companies ranked in the medium-sized employers’ category. World Travel Holdings’ Dream Vacations/CruiseOne brands house the lion’s share of the division’s talented and experienced employees out of its Fort Lauderdale headquarters.

“Climbing to the #4 spot in the mid-size employer category—especially in our first year being recognized at this level—is an incredible achievement and one we’re deeply proud of,” said Debbie Fiorino, chief operating officer of Dream Vacations/CruiseOne. “This milestone is a testament to the strength of our culture, the dedication of our teams, and our ongoing commitment to creating an environment where people feel valued and inspired. Being the only employer listed as a Top Workplace for all 11 years reinforces that when you invest in your people, the results speak for themselves.”

The Sun Sentinel Top Workplaces list is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage  LLC. The confidential survey uniquely measures the employee experience and its component themes, including employees feeling Respected & Supported, Enabled to Grow, and Empowered to Execute, to name a few.

The company’s 11^th consecutive placement in the awards program reflects its commitment to fostering a positive work environment. To see the full list of winners, visit the Sun Sentinel Top Workplaces website.

To learn more about World Travel Holdings and its career opportunities, visit the company’s Careers page.

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 Dream Vacations
Dream Vacations is a home-based travel agency franchise that gives its agents 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.

About Dream Vacations and CruiseOne®
Dream Vacations and CruiseOne® are home-based travel agency franchises that give their agents the flexibility to run their businesses their way. CruiseOne, established in 1992, and Dream Vacations, introduced in 2016, provide agents 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. 

About Energage
Energage is a purpose-driven company that helps organizations turn employee feedback into useful business intelligence and credible employer recognition through Top Workplaces. Built on 16 years of culture research and the results from 27 million employees surveyed across more than 70,000 organizations, Energage delivers the most accurate competitive benchmark available. With access to a unique combination of patented analytic tools and expert guidance, Energage customers lead the competition with an engaged workforce and an opportunity to gain recognition for their people-first approach to culture. For more information or to nominate your organization, visit energage.com or topworkplaces.com.

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CLIA Recognizes Daly’s Lasting Impact on the Travel Industry, Celebrating a Career of Innovation, Advocacy and Heart

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (April 29, 2025) — Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager of Dream Vacations and CruiseOne, has been honored with the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) Hall of Fame Lifetime Achievement Award, one of the industry’s highest honors. This recognition celebrates Daly’s nearly 30-year legacy of leadership, advocacy, and unwavering dedication to empowering travel advisors and inspiring his teams.

Daly’s journey in travel began in 1995 when he joined National Leisure Group—now World Travel Holdings. He started as a travel advisor after graduating college, it quickly became clear that this was more than a job for him, it was a long-term career, and he had found his calling. Over the years, Daly has made an indelible mark across many corners of the travel industry—from launching one of the earliest virtual call centers before remote work was mainstream, to helping thousands of entrepreneurs launch successful businesses through Dream Vacations and CruiseOne.

“Drew has been a driving force in the travel industry for three decades, and I’ve had the honor of working side-by-side with him for many of those years,” said Debbie Fiorino, chief operating officer of Dream Vacations and CruiseOne. “What makes Drew so special is that he leads with both heart and vision. He doesn’t just talk about caring about it, every single day, in every interaction. His ability to connect with people, to inspire, to innovate, and to champion travel advisors is unmatched. This honor is so well-deserved, and I couldn’t be prouder to see him recognized.”

In 2009, Daly transitioned into the franchise and host side of the business, where his passion for mentorship and advisor development took center stage. Today, he leads a variety of business functions including training, sales, marketing, recruitment, business development, events, and more. Under his leadership, Dream Vacations/CruiseOne has cultivated a culture of inclusion, innovation, and FUN—something Daly quite literally wrote the book on. His award-winning 2018 book Selling Fun has become a staple resource for travel professionals across the country.

Beyond business growth, Daly’s heart for service shines brightly. He’s rappelled buildings for Gilda’s Club, hammered nails for Habitat for Humanity, and led fundraising initiatives that have raised nearly $2 million for Make-A-Wish® Southern Florida since 2011. His signature energy and ability to inspire collective action are on full display each year during National Conference, where he helps rally advisors around giving back.

In 2019, Daly stood shoulder-to-shoulder with Oprah Winfrey as a guest speaker at the christening of Holland America’s Nieuw Statendam. During the pandemic, he represented the travel advisor community before the U.S. Senate to advocate for the safe return of cruising. A two-term Chair of CLIA’s STARBoard, he continues to serve on numerous supplier advisory boards and nonprofit boards, including The Travel Institute and PATH.

“I’m incredibly honored and humbled by this recognition,” said Drew Daly. “I’ve been fortunate to work alongside some of the most passionate, hardworking, and inspiring people in the world of travel. This award is a reflection of all the teams, advisors, supplier partners and mentors who have made this journey so meaningful. I truly believe that when we lead with kindness, stay curious, and support one another, we can do incredible things—and have a whole lot of fun doing it.”

Known affectionately as the “Selfie King,” Daly is never without a smile—or a camera. He’s the kind of leader who remembers names, celebrates wins big and small, and always finds time to strike up a conversation. Whether he’s encouraging someone’s next big idea or leading a themed dance party at an industry event, Drew’s warmth and authenticity are unmatched.

CLIA’s Lifetime Achievement Award is a fitting tribute to a professional who has helped shape the travel industry with both head and heart. Through his leadership, advocacy, and relentless enthusiasm, Drew Daly has built more than a career—he’s built a legacy.

When you join the Dream Vacations and CruiseOne network, you’re not just starting a business—you’re gaining a team that truly cares more. With the guidance of industry leaders like CLIA Hall of Fame honoree Drew Daly, you’ll have the support, education, and partnerships you need to thrive. If you’re ready to turn your passion for travel into something bigger, visit www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com to learn more.

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Luxury villa bookings surge across Mexico, the Caribbean, and Europe 

Wakefield, Mass. (April 24, 2025) – Villas of Distinction®, a premier luxury villa rental company, reported double-digit growth in bookings across top global destinations in the first quarter of 2025. The uptick underscores continued demand by travelers for high-end, private villas and luxurious travel experiences.

“Guests are increasingly valuing unique properties, high-touch service, and authentic local experiences,” said Jamie Cash, chief operating officer of Villas of Distinction. “We’re seeing strong interest in both last-minute getaways and long-range planning for key travel periods.”

Key Booking Insights: 

• Top Growth Destinations: Mexico (Los Cabos, Punta Mita, Puerto Vallarta), the Caribbean (Barbados, Anguilla, St. Martin, Jamaica), and Europe (Portugal, Greece, Spain, France) saw the highest year-over-year increases.
• Booking Behavior: Travelers continue to book both spontaneous trips and future travel, with strong activity for summer and the 2025 holiday season.
• Stay Trends: There is growing interest in larger groups traveling together, with guests valuing the shared luxury experience.
• S. Travel Trends: U.S. travel also surged, with notable growth over last year, primarily in Hawaii and Florida. These trips are longer in duration and often include larger parties.

For more information, contact your travel advisor or visit VillasofDistinction.com or call 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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