CA Compass 2024

WELLNESS IS ON THE MENU

SIX PROPERTIES PRIORITIZING CULINARY WELL-BEING

Travel in Bloom

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>> Departments

9. PRESIDENT’S NOTE

Insights from John Ische, president of Trisept Solutions.

10. EDITOR’S NOTE

Sometimes being selfish is a good thing.

14. TRUE NORTH

This quarter’s most important news for advisors.

18. CONVERSATIONS

We asked: What has been your most unique spa experience while traveling?

20. BY THE WAY (A PSA)

ASTA has redesigned its VTA program to accommodate the modern travel advisor.

22. HOW I CARRY ON

Glenda Beagle’s podcast is helping advisors step into the natural role of “salesperson.”

24. TAKING OFF

Kelli Bertram, travel advisor and mental health therapist, shares how she blended her two passions into one dream career.

26. THE RIGHT DIRECTION

With this community impact program, travelers’ tourism dollars leave a legacy of positive change.

28. TECH TO KNOW

With an aligned goal of helping small businesses succeed online, two best friends became co-owners of a website design company.

82. BREAKOUT SESSION

Travel advisors share how to know when to fire a client.

84. DESTINATION NEXT

Succumb to Bali’s allure and embrace ultimate relaxation in this health and wellness haven.

86. YESTERDAY’S NEWS

Learn how Hyatt celebrated Confidant Collective’s one-year anniversary.

88. ASK MAXWELL

Our beloved flippered friend answers your VAX questions.

89. CROSSWORD

Test your knowledge of wellness and spa treatments around the world.

90. ONE FOR THE ROAD

Wisdom to take with you till next time.

30. SPAS AT SEA

These cruise line spas boast unique treatments and design-driven experiences.

40. TURN FEEDBACK INTO YOUR GROWTH ENGINE

The case for collecting customer feedback — and interpreting it for your business needs.

44. TRAVEL IN BLOOM

Gardens are a hot commodity right now — and travel advisors are wellpositioned to hop on the niche.

54. WELLNESS IS ON THE MENU

These properties are focused on their guests’ culinary well-being.

60. HOW INDIGENOUS GROUPS ARE SHARING THEIR OWN STORIES

Travel operations built around Indigenous storytelling bring something fresh to tourism.

70. LEAD THE WAY: HOW QUALIFYING CLIENTS CAN STEER YOU TOWARD SUCCESS

Not every client is the right fit for you; here’s how to use lead qualification as a matchmaking tool to find customers you’re aligned with.

76. 8 RESOURCES YOU MIGHT NOT BE UTILIZING ON VAX

Make sure you’re taking advantage of these helpful tools on VAX VacationAccess.

80. IT’S TIME FOR A DIGITAL DETOX

Take a break from technology and learn how to unplug during the workday and after hours.

TRAVEL IN BLOOM (PG 44)

PHOTO: CHEVAL IMAGERY

President and Publisher

John Ische

Editor in Chief – Sarah Kneisler

Managing Editor – Codie Liermann

Senior Editor – Jenna Buege

Contributing Writers – Samantha Anderson, Alesandra Dubin, Leslie Lang, Rossilynne Skena Culgan, Joni Sweet

Advertising

Vice President – Joe Shomperlen

External Account Managers – Carey Driscoll, Melissa Haskin, Pam Lowe, Sue Ulickey

PRESIDENT

Steve T. Strickbine

A division of Times Media Group Editorial

Marketing Operations

Director, Operations and Marketing – Sarah Kneisler

Advertising Product Specialist – Kati Kohler

Advertising Coordinator – Rowanna Bailey, Hannah Ulickey Manager, Digital Marketing – Ashley Perego

Advertising Producers – Joseph Enslin, Kyle Krause

Brand Ambassador – Vonda Keeler

Published by Firebrand Media

DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS

Nadine Johnson

FOUNDER / FIREBRAND MEDIA

DIRECTOR OF CUSTOM PUBLISHING

Steve Zepezauer

GROUP EDITOR

Justine Amodeo

CREATIVE & MARKETING DIRECTOR

Tracy Powell

PRODUCTION MANAGER

Tina Leydecker

Wellness

comes in many different forms, just like luxury and adventure. Everyone has their own definition of it — for some people it’s a yoga session followed by a juice bar, and for others it’s

standing at the top of a mountain taking in the views. Some people define wellness through fitness and

diet, and for others it’s about prioritizing their mental health or rest and relaxation.

Mental health awareness has increased rapidly over the past few years, and the segment of wellness travel has also expanded and become more and more prominent. Do the two go hand in hand?

In a lot of ways, travel is therapy, and that’s the beauty of it — you can get wellness in so many different ways through traveling: going to the spa, sleeping in, relaxing by the pool, having the time for long walks. It naturally aids a traveler’s mental health.

As travel advisors, your clients come to you in need of a break, and it’s up to you to figure out what type of travel is therapeutic to them. It’s up to you to figure out their WHY. Simply booking a trip might not be

John Ische PRESIDENT, TRISEPT SOLUTIONS

John’s industry tenure spans more than three decades.

enough. Advisors need to ensure the trip will check their boxes and leave them feeling rejuvenated.

It’s important to get to the core of why the traveler is going, and most advisors are really good at this. You become much more valuable to the customer when you craft an itinerary that is focused on their needs. Is it a single mom who is stressed and needs to fully relax? Make sure a spa service is included in her stay. Is it a couple who desperately need to reconnect with each other? Book them a quiet candlelight dinner on the beach to ensure quality time together is had.

Using the five whys technique might be a tool to help you figure out your clients’ “whys” — why their trip is important to them. This technique was originally developed by Sakichi Toyoda and used within the Toyota Motor Corporation to develop their manufacturing methodologies, but can easily be applied to travel planning. It’s simple: continue to ask “why” five times until the root issue is revealed. If you keep on digging and peeling the layers back, you’ll get to the core. Once you get to the core, you’re able to create the perfect trip.

Today I’m going to encourage you to be selfish. Think about what you need before you think about what everyone else around you needs.

While this might have a negative connotation at first, we need to remember that taking responsibility for our own needs and filling up our cup first (in other words, being selfish) can actually be a good thing.

If you haven’t noticed, the people who are happy, healthy and successful take care of themselves first. They’ve figured out that they simply cannot pour from an empty cup. They fill up their tank first in order to be available for their family, friends and businesses. They’re optimistic. They have a positive approach to life, and this positivity naturally fuels the people around them. They have the space and energy to help others. The life of a travel advisor is a selfless one. You spend all hours of the day and night helping to ensure client satisfaction, but it’s important to take a step back, set boundaries and make sure your well-being is also being taken care of. We want to help you do this.

Codie Liermann MANAGING EDITOR

CODIE AIMS TO DELIVER VALUABLE CONTENT TO TRAVEL ADVISORS

This issue of The Compass magazine is all about wellness, and we’ve tried to provide unique topics to help spark some new ideas for you to offer your clients. You’ll see a fun round-up of spas at sea and advice on doing a digital detox. You’ll also hear from Kelli Bertram, a mental health therapist and travel advisor.

In between the wellness-focused content are business tips you don’t want to miss. Learn how to properly qualify and survey your clients and check out eight features on VAX VacationAccess you might not know existed.

In this issue, there’s also an important feature on the shift in tourism when it comes to Indigenous groups sharing their own stories firsthand. All this and so much more lies ahead.

We hope the content on these pages inspires you to take care of yourself today … and maybe even be a bit selfish.

This issue of The Compass magazine is all about wellness, and we’ve tried to provide unique topics to help spark some new ideas for you to offer your clients.

CONTRIBUTORS

SAMANTHA ANDERSON

Samantha Anderson is the editorial intern for VAX VacationAccess. A communications and journalism major at Carroll University, Samantha can always be found on the soccer field or with her nose in the latest book. New to the industry, she’s excited to write travel content and is looking forward to the next big adventure that awaits!

LESLIE LANG

Leslie Lang is a Hawai’i-based writer who writes about technology as well as the Hawaiian Islands. Her latest book, “What Would Our Kupuna Do?: And What We Can do For Future Generations” is co-written with Richard Ha and available on Amazon.

JENNA BUEGE

Senior editor for VAX VacationAccess and world explorer, Jenna Buege loves writing about all things travel. When she’s not busy creating content, she spends her time exploring the great outdoors, cuddling with her two black cats and researching her next big (sometimes strange) adventure.

ROSSILYNNE SKENA CULGAN

Rossilynne Skena Culgan is a journalist and author whose writing can be found in Saveur Magazine, Atlas Obscura, Thrillist, Google Arts & Culture and the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. She’s the author of the travel guidebook “100 Things to Do in Pittsburgh Before You Die” and is currently writing a Pittsburgh history book. A Pittsburgh native, she now lives in New York City. No matter where she travels, she’s always keeping her eyes peeled for vintage signage.

ALESANDRA DUBIN

Alesandra Dubin is a news and lifestyle editor and writer based in Los Angeles. A veteran digital journalist, she’s covered travel, food, events, fashion and beauty, entertainment, home, parenting and viral content for more than 15 years, for both consumer and business audiences. Her work has appeared in Town & Country, Esquire, Cosmopolitan, Good Housekeeping, Parents, E!, BravoTV. com, BuzzFeed, TODAY.com and countless other online and print outlets.

JONI SWEET

Joni Sweet is a freelance writer who’s driven by adventure. Her journalistic pursuits have taken her around the globe — rafting down the Ganges, hiking the rainforests of Borneo, swimming with whale sharks in Mexico and hot air ballooning over Cappadocia. Her work has been published by National Geographic, Lonely Planet, Forbes, TIME, Travel Weekly and many other publications.

SERENITY

TRANQUILITY & REJUVENATION

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Stay the course on these big issues.

WORDS / JENNA BUEGE

PLANE SPOTTING AT CHARLOTTE DOUGLAS INTERNATIONAL

Juneau Caps Cruise Ship Visitors

Following concerns from frustrated locals, the city of Juneau, Alaska is working with cruise brands like Carnival Corporation, Disney, Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings and Royal Caribbean Group to implement new capacity limits for daily visitors. Beginning in 2026, the popular domestic destination will welcome 16,000 daily passengers Sunday through Friday and 12,000 daily passengers on Saturdays. “The cruise industry is vital to our local economy, and we need to improve our infrastructure and grow our tour capacity to create a great guest experience and reduce impacts on residents,” said Alexandra Pierce, director of Juneau Visitor Industry, in a statement. “With this agreement, we are committing to a cap to manage our busiest days and to meet annually to ensure that our visitor numbers remain sustainable.”

North Carolina is encouraging people to look to the skies with its new 600,000-square-foot overlook area less than two miles from Charlotte Douglas International Airport (CLT). An ideal place to spend an afternoon, visitors can watch planes roar overhead in addition to enjoying the overlook’s various aircraft-themed amenities: a playground with a mini air traffic control tower and an airplane-shaped climbing wall, an impressive lineup of food trucks, informative exhibits, memorials and more. “The Airport knows how important the Overlook is to the local community and we worked diligently to create a place that people of all ages will enjoy,” said Jack Christine, chief infrastructure officer for CLT, in a statement earlier this year. “This space showcases many displays and features that will educate, inspire and create lasting memories.” The new lookout deck is free and open to the public and features accessible parking, bike racks, restrooms and more.

The playground at CLT’s new aircraft-themed overlook

The Carnival Spirit docks in Juneau, Alaska.

MEET BARK AIR, AN AIRLINE FOR DOGS

Thanks to BARK Air, a new, dog-centric luxury airline, travelers don’t need to worry about leaving their furry friends behind when packing for their next vacation. After taking to the skies earlier this year, the canine-friendly air carrier is expanding its existing service connecting New York, Los Angeles and London to include Paris, Chicago, San Jose, Phoenix and Fort Lauderdale beginning in October 2024. “We’re excited to expand BARK Air’s service to new cities and through new routes, accommodating customer demand and bringing our unique, stress-free dog-centric travel experience to even more families,” said Matt Meeker, co-founder and CEO of BARK Air, in a press release announcing the expansion. BARK Air operates a fleet of Gulfstream G5 jets, and each flight can accommodate up to 14 dogs and humans although the airline never sells more than nine tickets to ensure ample space. Domestic flights start at $6,000, and international routes begin at $8,000.

Behind the Seams is a new attraction at The Dolly Parton Experience.

DOLLYWOOD’S NEW ATTRACTION

Dolly Parton fans rejoice: Dollywood, the beloved entertainer’s amusement park in Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, recently unveiled The Dolly Parton Experience, a new attraction chronicling the singer’s life from her upbringing in a tiny cabin in Locust Ridge to the countless stages she’s graced throughout the years. The Dolly Parton Experience spans three buildings and a retired tour bus and gives visitors a behind-the-scenes look at Parton’s endeavors in music, movies and more. A few noteworthy attractions include “Behind the Seams,” a display showcasing all things glam — think hair, makeup, costumes and jewelry — and “Precious Memories,” an exhibit honoring the singer’s friends and family and the ways they’ve impacted her career.

GREECE’S FIRST-EVER HELICOPTER AIRLINE

Island hopping in Greece is easier than ever thanks to the recent introduction of Hoper, the country’s first-ever scheduled helicopter airline. Nixing the need for tedious cruises, ferry rides and inconvenient flight schedules, the new service, which launched in the summer of 2024, connects visitors to 11 popular destinations in the Aegean, including Athens, Antiparos, Folegandros, Ios, Kea, Mykonos, Patmos, Santorini, Sifnos, Spetses and Tinos. Hoper comprises a fleet of five Robinson R44 and R66 helicopters and offers year-round service travelers can book online up to three hours before departure. Best of all, Hoper is affordable, with one-way fares ranging from 160 to 350 euros.

Hoper is a convenient and affordable option for island hopping in Greece.

BARK Air is a private, luxury-focused airline for dogs and their humans.

SIX FLAGS’ VIRTUAL EXPERIENCE

COURTESY OF SIX FLAGS

Six Flags has ventured into the virtual world with “Six Flags Virtual Theme Park on Roblox,” the company’s new VR experience where guests can ride roller coasters, explore challenging Fright Fest-inspired mazes, play engaging games and more without ever stepping foot inside a theme park. “Bringing Six Flags to Roblox has enabled us to create a one-of-a-kind metaverse experience that will engage and entertain our fans in innovative ways,” said Selim Bassoul, CEO of Six Flags, in a statement. “This initiative underscores our dedication to pioneering new entertainment frontiers and setting industry standards.” Alas, this doesn’t mean the theme park is leaving the physical world behind. Instead, users are encouraged to collect “coastercoins,” digital points that can be redeemed for Six Flags rewards and activities at physical Six Flags parks — it’s the perfect amalgam of the virtual and physical world.

INTREPID EMBRACES SLOW TRAVEL

Tour operator Intrepid Travel is promoting slower, more sustainable travel with the launch of its new rail collection comprising 40 trips and three new itineraries — the Trans-Mongolian Railway Adventure, Express to the Orient from Paris to Istanbul and Paris to Rome by Rail — in Asia and Europe for 2025. According to the brand, this launch supports the company’s long-term product development plans to replace international flights with less carbon-intensive options, when possible, as part of its global decarbonization strategy. And there’s demand too, as, according to the company, its customer data shows train travel is hot, with 75% of its clients sharing they hope to travel by rail during their next vacation.

Six Flags has entered the virtual world with its new metaverse experience on Roblox.

One of Intrepid Travel’s new itineraries is “Express to the Orient from Paris to Istanbul.”

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Offering something epic not only sets you apart — it truly transforms your Sailors’ time off. As their go-to vacation guru, your Sailors trust you to serve up the very best. And that’s where we come in.

Whether they’re craving a quick 4 to 5-night escape or a grand 6 to 8-night adventure in the Eastern or Western Caribbean, Virgin Voyages has the most inclusive sailings around. And we’re not just talking about our stunning Caribbean destinations — we mean Wi-Fi, all dining, tips, entertainment, and workout classes, all included. No surprise fees, just pure luxury.

And speaking of fitness, we’ve just won the TravelAge West WAVE Award for the best onboard Wellness Program. With sunrise yoga, spa bliss, and sweat-worthy fitness classes, your Sailors will cruise in true Virgin style — enjoying an experience that redefines relaxation and rejuvenation.

So, give your Sailors more than just a getaway — offer them the most inclusive experience on the high seas where every sailing comes packed with Always Included Luxury.

WE ASKED: WHAT WHAT HAS BEEN YOUR MOST UNIQUE SPA EXPERIENCE WHILE TRAVELING?

Shirley Morris

OWNER AND SENIOR TRAVEL ADVISOR AT FAIRY GODMOTHER TRAVEL

WEBSITE fairygodmothertravel.com

FACEBOOK facebook.com/FairyGodmotherTravel

“My most unique spa treatments have always been while cruising. I travel frequently and have had many wonderful Swedish, poultice, hot stone and Himalayan salt stone massages, but the cruise spas add a unique twist and elevated sense of relaxation. I believe this is due to the ship’s rocking movement. Very few cruise lines, however, have the Quartz bed massage experience due to the price of the bed itself. It was delightful to try this experience first in Virgin Voyages’ Redemption Spa. Quartz therapy usage goes back to ancient times due to its proven well-being benefits. I felt incredibly relaxed and relieved of muscle pain when the treatment was completed. Since that time, I have sought spas on land and at sea where I can receive this treatment. It is truly luxurious!”

Sanya L. Weston CEO OF YPT TRAVEL GROUP INC

WEBSITE yourpremiertravelservice.com

INSTAGRAM instagram.com/travelonthego

“One of the best spa experiences I’ve ever had was in Morocco. Over the past five years, I’ve visited five continents, and indulging in spa experiences has been a highlight of my travels. Some have been amusing, some relaxing, and others have swept me off my feet. However, none have topped my experience in Morocco. The Moroccan spa experience, particularly the traditional hammam, stands out for its unique combination of physical, mental and spiritual rejuvenation. The meticulous process, from steam baths and vigorous exfoliation to soothing massages with fragrant oils, is deeply rooted in Moroccan culture. It offers not just a cleanse but a profound sense of renewal and connection. This transformative experience in Morocco left a lasting impression on me, surpassing any other spa experience I’ve had worldwide.”

Carla Joy Schipper CEO AND FOUNDER OF UNIQUE

ROMANCE & ADVENTURE TRAVEL

WEBSITE UniqueRomanceTravel.com

INSTAGRAM instagram.com/uniqueromancetravel

“When I travel, I always try to find the best spa to experience not only the style but the different techniques that each location has adopted into the experience of a massage. What comes to my mind as very memorable and unique is when I traveled to Riviera Maya, Mexico, stayed at Hotel Xcaret and experienced a spa that made me feel as if I had walked into a cenote. Between the smell and the visual, it was the most unique spa I have seen up to this point in my career. The waiting room had running water that was so calming. It was the perfect place to unwind and relax before being led into a beautiful cabin with the same smells and ambience the relaxing room offered. After the treatment, I entered another room with swinging beds and hammocks, snacks and views of the water running through the area as if the cenote just continued on. I will continue to look for the best spa experience in my travels since I believe it is the best way to start or end your trip.”

Shamica Davis

CHIEF EXPERIENCE OFFICER AT JTS VACATIONS

WEBSITE JTSVacations.com

INSTAGRAM instagram.com/jtsvacations

“One of my most unique spa experiences occurred at the LeBlanc Los Cabos Resort and Spa. From the moment I arrived, the service was exceptional. I began with the hot sauna and a refreshing ice room session. The highlight was the hydrotherapy circuit, which left me feeling rejuvenated and relaxed. The attention to detail was impeccable, and the decadent delights served throughout my visit added a luxurious touch. This experience was unlike any other spa visit I had ever had, making it truly unforgettable. The serene environment and top-notch service at LeBlanc Los Cabos created a spa experience that exceeded all expectations.”

Hotel Riu Palace Bavaro

NEW Friends & Family Rooms

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Book through your preferred Tour Operator or visit riupro.com

Discover the perfect space for your clients to stay close to the people they love.

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As you like it

ENHANCE CREDIBILITY WITH THE ASTA VERIFIED TRAVEL ADVISOR CERTIFICATION PROGRAM

The American Society of Travel Advisors has redesigned its VTA program to accommodate the modern travel advisor.

WORDS / CODIE LIERMANN

As travel scams continue to be on the rise and fraudulent websites get more and more sophisticated, the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) is determined to look for resolutions to this growing issue in the travel industry. One solution? Enhancing its Verified Travel Advisor (VTA) certification program.

“Consumer complaints have regrettably required ASTA to discipline members in the past,” said Zane Kerby, ASTA president and CEO, at this year’s ASTA Travel Advisor Conference in Dallas. “However, since 2017 when we launched the ASTA Verified Travel Advisor Certification, we’ve never fielded a single complaint against an ASTA Verified Travel Advisor.”

With this in mind, the organization decided it was time to give the program an overhaul, redesigning it to accommodate the modern travel advisor and increase consumer confidence.

“From now on, when the media calls us and asks how to avoid travel scams, we’re going to point them to our new directory that will display ONLY Verified Travel

Advisors,” Kerby said.

The program was once nine courses, and it has now been narrowed down to four main courses. The remaining five have been combined with the other additional courses that can be taken to maintain the certification.

The core courses include Legal Insights: Protecting ASTA Member Agencies and Professionals, Ethical Excellence: Mastering the ASTA’s Code of Ethics, Legal Compass: Navigating Agency Relationships and Regulatory Guidebook: Understanding Federal Compliance for Travel Agencies.

MANDATORY ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Emphasizing the importance of being a reputable travel advisor with ethical principles, ASTA has set eligibility criteria now mandatory for all advisors new to this program to meet.

In addition to being an ASTA member, advisors must have either a minimum of two years of uninterrupted experience and an annual sales volume of $500,000 for at least one of those two years or at least five years of experience and an annual sales volume of $250,000 for five consecutive years.

“Key and important to us is to maintain the professionalism of the business, the professionalism of the travel advisor, so that a consumer can count on an ASTA Verified Travel Advisor as someone to be trusted to do business with and to indeed do what’s right for the traveler,” said Mark Meader, ASTA’s senior vice president of industry affairs and education, during a press conference at the ASTA Travel Advisor Conference.

MAINTAINING VTA CERTIFICATION

Similar to other certifications, it’s important to maintain the status, especially in an everevolving industry such as the travel industry. To do so for their VTA certification, advisors must earn four continuing education units (CEUs) every two years.

The CEUs can be earned by completing additional courses or by attending events including the ASTA Travel Advisor Conference, ASTA River Cruise Expo, ASTA Legislative Day, ASTA Premium Business Summit and ASTA Caribbean Showcase.

“The recertification is a critical step to

ensure that our members are maintaining their competitive edge and learning the relevant skills to meet the changes of this evolving market,” said Kerby. “Our promise to consumers rests on this.”

Once advisors earn their VTA certification, they have authorization to use the VTA logo, which validates the earned trust and professionalism travelers expect from the

travel advisor they choose to work with.

“People are looking for travel they can trust, and ASTA’s Verified Travel Advisors are the solution,” said Kerby. “Travel advisors who take this step are not only staying relevant by doing so. They’re making themselves indispensable.”

To learn more about obtaining the VTA certification, visit ASTA.org/VTA.

MASTERING THE ART OF SELLING TRAVEL

Glenda Beagle’s podcast is helping advisors step into the natural role of “salesperson.”

Whatever your opinion is on fate, sometimes it’s hard to contest the fact that some things are simply meant to be. For Glenda Beagle, working in the travel industry is one of those things. “I had applied randomly to a blind ad in a newspaper to be a receptionist, as a way to save for a family vacation to Hawaii,”

she said. That was in 2006, and after working her way up to the position of “travel advisor,” entering talks to buy the business, and, ultimately, deciding to open a brick-andmortar agency in a new city, 18 years later, that pivotal blind ad sealed Beagle’s fate as a successful podcaster, business coach and agency owner.

In addition to landing the career of her dreams, Beagle has found her experience in various roles has made her an expert in sales, and she’s determined to share her knowledge with others through her podcast “Art of Selling Travel.” “It didn’t take long to realize that I loved coaching even more than I loved selling,” she said. “I knew (that sales) was by far the training that lacked the most in the industry, so it was a perfect fit.”

Easily accessible to anyone with a connection to the internet, podcasts are one of the most popular mediums in modern entertainment. And, whether they tune in during a workout at the gym, their commute to work or while cleaning around the house, Beagle explained that “Art of Selling Travel” began as a way to connect with other travel pros, even when they weren’t in the same room. “It was a way to talk about some of the struggles they were having inside of Facebook groups, but that couldn’t be answered in just a line or two,” she said. “Everything I do, either on the podcast or as a coach, is through the lens of what I wish someone was talking about in the industry or what I wish I knew when I was building my travel business.”

In addition to tapping into Beagle’s wisdom, listeners to the pod will hear from various guests whose expertise runs the gamut. “(We’ve had) everyone from current travel advisors who had questions they needed coached through to Liz Wilcox, an email marketing guru (and) finalist from “Survivor” season 46, and amazing sales minds like Gina Trimarco,” said Beagle.

When asked what she’s learned on the show, Beagle remembered Erin Erdos’ advice for getting started with automation and another guest’s practical approach to accounting. However, Beagle noted her most memorable moment as talking with Wilcox

WORDS / JENNA BUEGE / PHOTOS COURTESY OF GLENDA BEAGLE

Glenda Beagle

about what she learned on “Survivor.” “She said ‘(I learned) to give myself grace, I’ve always given it to everyone else, but I hadn’t extended it to myself.’ That one rocked me to my core, I think we all forget to extend grace to ourselves,” said Beagle.

Regarding advisors, Beagle understands they might be hesitant to don the title of “salesperson.” But she says they shouldn’t be. “Sales is something we all do every day in some capacity. Getting a puppy to sit on command for a treat or our kids to pick up their toys is all sales. Ultimately though, I get it, no one wants to ‘bother people’ or be ‘icky’ when it comes to sales — but your clients need a nudge, they need YOU to have enough confidence left over so that they can borrow some from you.”

For those who are still hesitant, Beagle recommends a change of perspective. “Sales is simply the process of helping your clients to discover opportunities they didn’t know were possible, guiding them through the selection process and ultimately receiving payment for securing the most amazing adventures,” she said. “That’s it — nothing sleazy or manipulative, only helping your clients.”

Finally, Beagle wants advisors to know that an objection is not the end, only an opportunity to ask better questions. “So often travel advisors stop when they get a ‘no.’ The reality is, there are more — better — questions to be asked,” she said. “It’s so common … to internalize that ‘no’ as a rejection of yourself, however that’s never what it’s about … The ultimate key to sales success is the ability to ask better questions while remaining detached from the outcome.”

WHAT’S IN GLENDA’S CARRY-ON?

“Books, old school paperback books. I always pack too many of them, but love having them with me when I travel. And yes, at least one at all times is sales or marketing-related.”

“It didn’t take long to realize that I loved coaching even more than I loved selling.”

Beagle viewing an episode of her podcast, “Art of Selling Travel”

MENTAL

HEALTH ON THE MOVE

Kelli Bertram, travel advisor and mental health therapist, shares the story of how she came to blend her two passions into one dream career.

WORDS / SAMANTHA ANDERSON / PHOTOS COURTESY OF KELLI BERTRAM

Like many advisors in the industry, Kelli Bertram’s career in travel wasn’t her first.

A Licensed Clinical Social Worker (LCSW) since 2019, Bertram knew from a young age that her goal was to make a difference in people’s lives. Following her cousin’s battle with leukemia and coupled with her desire to help others, all roads ahead seemed destined to lead Bertram into social work and mental health therapy. Despite her confidence that becoming an LCSW was the right move, a part of Bertram couldn’t deny the gravitational pull she had always felt toward the travel industry.

“It was always in the back of my mind that I wanted to do travel; it’s always been my thing. I remember being in high school and creating a vision board, and mine was travel-focused,” Bertram said. “I loved geography class because I was learning about the world, and I also was really interested in

Bertram interacts with an elephant at a sanctuary in Thailand during a service trip.

Kelli Bertram

learning about different cultures, too.”

Recognizing her passion for travel and in search of a job after graduating with her master’s degree, Bertram was seeking a way to merge her two loves into one ultimate dream job, though she quickly realized the combination of careers didn’t exist on the market. After her valiant search efforts, Bertram settled into a 9-5 position with a local nonprofit organization, where she remained for two years, until that itch for travel became too hard to ignore.

“I thought about starting my own business because my dream job didn’t exist,” Bertram

said. “I started thinking, ‘Well, I’ll just have to create it myself.’” In October 2021, she did just that, taking a leap of faith and turning her dreams into a reality. Bertram opened her own independent mental health practice and joined Come and See Travel as an advisor in the same month, unafraid of tackling two major endeavors at once. Both businesses grew far more rapidly than Bertram anticipated, and she eventually became a full-time owner in February 2022.

With nearly three years of experience as an advisor under her belt, Bertram initially kept her work for each business separate but came

to appreciate their complementary nature.

“It’s so easy for me to overlap the two in both parts of my business,” she said. “When I’m in therapy sessions with my clients, they’ll say that they feel like they’re going through the motions and every day is the same. We’ll talk about stepping outside your comfort zone, trying new things and broadening your horizons — travel just naturally gets brought up in the conversations.”

Bertram explained the relationship between the two, noting that travel is good for improving mental health as it provides a change in scenery and day-to-day life. It’s also a great way to build character, test emotion regulation and learn appropriate coping skills when things inevitably go awry — delayed flights, canceled excursions, complicated public transportation systems and language barriers with locals — which can invoke intense feelings of frustration. When travelers overcome this adversity, they feel a renewed sense of strength, resiliency, bravery and confidence — all skills Bertram attributes to positive self-esteem and general well-being.

Seeing the benefits of the overlap between travel and mental health, Bertram delved into this niche area of the industry, hosting her first retreat in Arizona this past June. Joined by nine other women, the group embarked on a rejuvenating four-day getaway, participating in spas, resort classes and activities planned by Bertram. While an organized retreat is one way to explore the art of traveling as a mental health break, the options are truly endless.

“For travel to help mental health, you don’t have to be going on big wellness retreats,” Bertram said. “It can just be a break. You can go to a resort and lay at the pool all day, or you can go to Costa Rica and go zip-lining for the adrenaline rush. All of those things contribute to overall wellbeing, and that’s what matters.”

Her key to success in life is simple: “Do what makes you happy. Think about the things you enjoy and that make you happy, and do those things,” she said. “I genuinely believe the point of life is to enjoy it, so just have fun.”

Bertram takes in the views of Santorini.

EVERY STAY GIVES BACK

With this community impact program, travelers’ tourism dollars leave a legacy of positive change.

WORDS / JENNA BUEGE

A2024 study from Booking.com found that 59% of Americans feel they are the best versions of themselves when they adopt sustainable practices while traveling. Pair this with the 74% who said they want to travel more sustainably in 2025, and the desire to embrace this growing trend is clear.

“There is a strong link between traveling sustainably and responsibly and increased trip satisfaction,” said Jessica Blotter, co-founder and CEO of public benefit corporation Kind

Traveler. Helping to foster this connection — and the warm fuzzy feelings it inspires — is Kind Traveler’s Every Stay Gives Back (ESGB) community impact program, an initiative where funds from every guest stay with a participating destination or lodging partner go directly to local charities.

“From planting trees in San Luis Obispo to healing wildlife on Catalina Island, funding sustainable agricultural programs in Oceanside schools, supporting farm animals in Sonoma County, helping women

and children in Sri Lanka, and supporting children’s educational initiatives in Tulum, Every Stay Gives Back ensures your travel dollars leave a legacy of positive change,” said Blotter.

As of June 2024, ESGB has raised $194,764 in donations. The program is rapidly growing too, and what began as a sixmonth global pilot comprising 15 boutique hotels and seven local charities across eight destinations in 2023 has now blossomed into 59+ lodging partners, 25+ charity

Farm to Pantry volunteers in Sonoma County powered by ESGB

beneficiaries and eight-plus destination partners.

As for determining which destinations and properties to partner with, Blotter shared the process typically begins when Kind Traveler works with a DMO to establish a destination program dedicated to advancing responsible tourism efforts. From there, DMOs invite local hotels to participate in the ESGB program. However, that’s not to say hotels without a destination program aren’t eligible. Blotter says all are welcome, and interested properties can contact Kind Traveler to learn more about how to get involved.

Similarly, participating DMOs and hotels determine which charities they want their ESGB dollars to support. Blotter shared it’s not uncommon for participants to have a

cause in mind before joining the program. Whatever they decide, there are a few guidelines for determining beneficiaries: 1) The charity must be registered in its country of origin, 2) It must be locally aligned, and 3) It must meet at least one of the United Nation’s Global Goals for Sustainable Development, which Blotter says are largely centered around climate action and building resilient and equitable communities.

Curious if you’ve ever stayed at a participating property? Lodging partners are encouraged to flaunt their involvement with pride, displaying the ESGB membership seal and QR codes in shared spaces to raise awareness of the program and encourage guests to get further involved in community impact efforts. Additionally, Kind Traveler

verifies and tracks monthly donations associated with ESGB via a virtual impact dashboard on its website to aid its partners in communicating their sustainability initiatives to guests and stakeholders.

Blotter says these impact dashboards can be utilized by travel advisors too, stating they’re easy to share with potential clients and are a great tool for empowering responsible travel education and vacation planning. “The impact dashboards also provide itinerarybuilding ideas that are helpful to advisors,” she said. “Charities provide tips and ideas on how to travel kindly and recommended activities and experiences for visitors to get further involved.” In addition to being a resource, Blotter wants travel pros to know they can support ESGB by booking participating properties. “Every guest stay funds a local charity, whether the booking takes place directly with the hotel or on a third-party platform,” she said.

Vacationers are seeking responsible and sustainable travel experiences; ESGB gives them a tangible way to do so. “It’s important for advisors to understand how responsible travel helps to create more emotionally connected travel experiences while also helping to serve essential community and environmental needs in destinations,” said Blotter. “The (faster) advisors can educate (clients) on the importance of responsible travel, the faster the travel industry can work towards creating a sustainable future.”

WHAT IS EVERY STAY GIVES BACK?

Every Stay Gives Back (ESGB) is a community impact program helmed by Kind Traveler. With this initiative, the funds from every guest stay at a participating property or destination go directly to a local charity.

HOW CAN ADVISORS GET INVOLVED?

Advisors can get involved by sharing the ESGB Collection impact dashboards via Kind Travelers’ website: kindtraveler.com/content/ every-stay-gives-back-directory. Advisors can also have discussions surrounding sustainability with their clients.

Money raised through ESGB funds charity efforts in San Luis Obispo.

SOLSTICE COLLECTIVE: YOUR ONLINE PRESENCE STARTS HERE

With an aligned goal of helping small businesses succeed online, two best friends became co-owners of a website design company.

WORDS / CODIE LIERMANN

Solstice Collective co-founders Kate Barnes (left) and Jane Linsea

Most advisors can’t tell you exactly what their day will look like when they dive into work. Maybe they have plans to confirm several guests attending a destination wedding in Aruba or wrap up an extensive itinerary for a client headed to Africa. But, of course, the morning begins with rebooking travelers on a canceled flight followed by sitting on hold with a cruise line to add a passenger to a last-minute reservation.

By the time they’ve gotten all their existing travelers situated and worked on new reservations, the clock strikes closing time, and just like that, another day has come and gone. When you’re busy putting out fires and creating new business, it’s difficult to find time in the day to do things like freshen up a website or social media account.

Solstice Collective’s Jane Linsea, CEO & co-founder and Kate Barnes, COO & co-founder, understand this and made it their mission to help small businesses find success online. Established in 2019, Solstice Collective is a website design company started by two best friends with the same goal.

“We met in college and immediately bonded over a lot of different things — one of them being the desire to launch a small business with the goal of helping other small businesses navigate and succeed in the online world,” Linsea said. “When we first started out, we focused solely on social media management as Solstice Social Media, but as we grew and got into the industry, we really saw the need for website design services.

So, we changed our plans and learned A TON about best practices for designing and maintaining professional, successful websites.”

While it might be difficult to keep an updated website and active social media pages, there are many benefits to doing so.

“The internet is where people go to find things — simple as that,” said Barnes. “So, why would you not make sure that the top search engines can find you and your services? A website not only gives your visitors a more robust presentation of what you do/provide, but also increases your SEO — which helps those search engines find you and keep you at the top.”

Linsea is a luxury travel agency owner

herself and not only knows how quickly an advisor’s day can fill up but also understands the needs advisors have. “Having insight into the industry is extremely beneficial to ensuring that our travel clients are getting what they need and what fits their business plan best,” she said. “We understand the ins and outs so that definitely helps in developing any of our clients’ communications strategies.”

Solstice Collective and VAX VacationAccess recently collaborated to provide resources that can make travel advisors’ lives a bit easier. Advisors can access free social media templates on VAX, located in the Travel Inspo Tool Kit.

“We also provide social media services for advisors and custom content creation, management, and design,” Barnes said. “We also are offering custom website design, website revamps, and our new ‘Website In A Day’ service! Travel advisors who book any services with us that are referred through VAX receive an exclusive discount, as well.”

To learn more about Solstice Collective, visit solstice-collective.com.

Spas at Sea

THESE CRUISE LINE SPAS BOAST UNIQUE TREATMENTS AND DESIGN-DRIVEN EXPERIENCES.

WORDS / ALESANDRA DUBIN

The world’s top luxury resorts and destination spas are known for their innovative wellness offerings. But these trends aren’t only found on land: A handful of cruise ships are raising the bar for wellness on the water, developing new and innovative spa facilities and treatment offerings that rival some of the finest around the globe.

For clients seeking elevated wellness at sea, these cruise lines’ spas are notable options worthy of recommendation. These are design-forward facilities with features like thermal suites, saunas, salt caves, heated loungers and floor-to-ceiling windows. They offer a range of tricked-out treatments, from med-spa procedures (think cosmetic injections, acupuncture and healing IV therapies) to soothing modalities inspired by destinations all over the world (from Scandinavian snow bathing to Turkish baths).

Read on for a look into some of the best spas available on cruise ships now — including facilities on Celebrity Cruises, Crystal, Princess Cruises, Explora Journeys’ debut ship and Viking’s sea and expedition vessels — plus tips for successfully booking cruise ship spa experiences for clients.

TIPS FOR BOOKING

When advising clients on the best cruise option, “consider their preferences for intimacy versus adventure, and the extent of spa facilities they desire,” said Scenic Group Vice President of Sales Elizabeth Fettes.

Generally, many larger ocean-going vessels have fully equipped spas, whereas smaller and more intimate river cruise vessels may have limited or no spa facilities. “Travel advisors should highlight the unique aspects of each type of cruise to match their client’s expectations and desires, ensuring they choose the perfect cruise that aligns with their wellness and travel aspirations,” Fettes said.

Lauren Doyle, president of the Travel Mechanic, a member of Ensemble, further notes that most cruise ship spa experiences can be booked via app prior to sailing, so she sets up a reminder email that goes out to each client prior to their trip. “A simple reminder can help them make sure they have a better cruise experience,” she said. She also notes that pre-booking has distinct advantages for clients, “especially if they can use shipboard credits, which are offered when you book through a consortium like Ensemble or a host agency.”

Crystal’s Aurōra Spa

Among the updates that are part of its recent relaunch, Crystal (formerly known as Crystal Cruises), has a notable new spa concept. Inspired by the Goddess of Dawn, Aurōra has a new design and sunrise-inspired signature treatments led by expert therapists.

The spa offers an abundant selection of med-spa treatments with a menu you might expect to sooner see at a land-based

spa: think Restylane dermal fillers, Dysport wrinkle treatments, microneedling, teeth whitening services, Chinese herbal medicine consultations, acupuncture, cryo-facials, Ionithermie for reducing the appearance of cellulite and LED light therapies.

Crystal Serenity features 12 treatment rooms, and Crystal Symphony features 10 treatment rooms, with steam rooms, saunas and a relaxation room on both ships.

Crystals’ Aurōra Spa is inspired by the Goddess of Dawn.

EXPLORA JOURNEYS’

OCEAN WELLNESS

Launched just last summer, the highend Explora Journeys cruise line offers an expansive Ocean Wellness spa experience, with more than 7,500 square feet of space dedicated to luxury wellness, including spa, fitness and beauty facilities, plus a space for classes and programs. (Explora I is the first ship for the luxury brand owned by the MSC Group, with five more Explora ships slated to launch by 2028.)

There are 11 treatment rooms, including one dedicated to specialized med-spa treatments using Dr. Levy Switzerland’s stem-cell products, a sensorial therapeutic circuit and two private spa suites, each with their own outdoor relaxation area. The facilities also include a hydrotherapy pool, steam room, Finnish sauna, salt cave, experience shower, ice fall and heated marble loungers. The starting treatment price for massages and facials is less than $200; passengers can also access the spa facilities without a treatment booked.

Overall, Explora’s first ship “had the feeling of a luxury hotel on the sea,” said Lou deLisser, owner of Lou deLisser Travel, an affiliate of Brownell Travel and Virtuoso member, who sailed on its maiden voyage in August 2023. She noted its “exquisite decor and spacious, well-designed outdoor spaces.” But even still, “it was the spa that set Explora I apart from other ships,” she said. “I opted for a facial that rivaled any I’ve had in Paris or New York City.”

Explora Journeys offers an expansive Ocean Wellness spa experience.

VIKING’S LIVNORDIC SPA

A standout feature of Viking’s wellequipped LivNordic spa, available on its oceangoing and expedition vessels, is that the facilities are open to all guests without an additional fee. The spas feature a sleek and attractive design — clearly reflecting the Scandinavian influence — meant to channel fire, ice and natural elements. The look features stone finishes in soothing gray tones and even a faux fireplace for ambiance. The co-ed spas feature a resistance pool, a sauna, heated tile loungers, a snow grotto and an ice shower.

For an additional fee, cruise passengers can opt to add treatments to their experience, including a bathing ritual that dates to the Viking age: Based on the Russian banya, it contrasts the heat of the sauna with an invigorating jaunt in the cold, either in the snow room or under a cascade of cool water — meant to evoke the Scandinavian tradition of following a hot sauna with a roll in the snow.

Viking’s LivNordic spa is avaialble on its oceangoing and expedition vessels.

PRINCESS CRUISES’ LOTUS SPA

Princess Cruises recently introduced its new ship, Sun Princess, which has its largest Lotus Spa at sea. The wellness facility now spans two full floors, with the spa facilities and beauty and barber services located on a separate deck to diversify the experiences. (In a first for Princess, the beauty salon and barbershop on this ship are a standalone offering on Sun Princess’ top deck.)

Lotus Spa offers a full suite of more than 30 services, from traditional treatments like facials and massages to medi-spa offerings like Restylane and Dysport injectables and its popular Retreat thermal spa with hydromassage, steam room, saunas and a plunge pool.

Guests can purchase a one-day pass for the Enclave portion of Lotus Spa for $49 or pay $149 for access during the full cruise when booking online or $199 for the full cruise when booking onboard.

A pool at Princess Cruises’ Lotus Spa

CELEBRITY CRUISES’ SEA THERMAL SUITE

The SEA Thermal Suite on Celebrity’s Edge series ships infuse elements of salt, earth and air across eight therapeutic spaces. Highlights include heated tile loungers with panoramic views, an infrared sauna, a salt room and a steam room.

The spa offers more than 120 treatments, many inspired by the destinations to which Celebrity sails. Highlights include Elemis BIOTEC technology facials, plus personalized IV therapies and nutrient injections — meant to help support cruise passengers’ common concerns like hydration, immunity and nausea relief.

Additional beauty and fitness options on board include the Kérastase Institute — the first of these premium salon concepts available at sea — with services and a specialty color bar; plus, the fitness centers on Celebrity Apex and Celebrity Beyond offer an F45 training studio specializing in high-intensity group workouts.

Even guest accommodations on Celebrity get into the holistic wellness atmosphere: Elements are infused throughout AquaClass and Aqua Sky Suite stateroom categories, which offer top-end cashmere mattress and pillow menus, clean and healthy cuisine options, a spa concierge, a fitness pass, preferential rates on spa packages, a yoga mat for use on board and access to the SEA Thermal Suite.

Doyle says she and her clients appreciate the multiple unique spaces within Celebrity’s spa offering on the Edge ships — varied enough to spend a whole day or pop in multiple times for a different experience each time.

For her wellness-motivated clients, Doyle also calls out the integration of the spa experience across guest accommodations as a way to have a holistic wellness experience at sea. “I love that if you upgrade to the AquaClass stateroom, you get access to the thermal suite complimentary, depending on cruise dates,” she said.

The fee to use Celebrity’s spa amenities (for non-AquaClass guests) depends on the ship and duration of the cruise, but the costs do not fluctuate when the ship is at port versus at sea. For example, rates to access the SEA Thermal Suite on Edge-class ships can begin at $99 on shorter sailings.

Celebrity Cruises’ SEA Thermal Suite

ANGELA HUGHES OWNER OF TRIPS & SHIPS LUXURY TRAVEL

“Now [that] you’ve secured the business, you want to make sure that person becomes a marketer for you, when they’re willing to recommend someone to you … that’s when you know they’ve been successful in the marketing funnel.”

TURN FEEDBACK INTO YOUR GROWTH ENGINE

CLIENT FEEDBACK CAN BE A USEFUL TOOL FOR MAKING IMPORTANT BUSINESS DECISIONS — HERE’S HOW TO HARNESS IT.

WORDS / ROSSILYNNE SKENA CULGAN

Want to know what your client really thought about their trip? It can be tough to gauge someone’s true opinions, but surveying your clients can crack that code to help you gain valuable feedback that you can leverage to improve their experience — and your business’ success. Surveying takes time, and it may not be as fun as some of the other parts of the job. But experts insist it’s crucial to your business’ progress — helping you retain current clients and find new ones.

DON CAPPARELLA CEO AND FOUNDER OF QUALITY TRAVEL SOLUTIONS

“Always circle back. We have to let them know that their voices [are] being heard, we’ll reach out and say, ‘Here are some outcomes and results of the quarterly survey we did about upcoming destinations, and this is what we’re finding.’”

DON CAPPARELLA CEO AND FOUNDER OF QUALITY TRAVEL SOLUTIONS

“In order to grow our business, we need to personally step outside of our own comfort zone and hear the voice of our clients”

ANGELA HUGHES OWNER OF TRIPS & SHIPS LUXURY TRAVEL

“I want new advisors and old advisors to think about continually asking for feedback and crafting those questions throughout, emphasizing the need for constant feedback.”

“Our growth is because of repeats and referrals,” said Don Capparella, CEO and founder of Quality Travel Solutions. “It’s so much easier to retain an existing client than to go out and find a new one.”

It can be easy to fall into the trap of assuming you know what a client thinks, but it’s pivotal to build a relationship and truly hear from the client.

“In order to grow our business, we need to personally step outside of our own comfort zone and hear the voice of our clients,” Capparella said. “We need to truly understand what their needs and their travel motivators are.”

Whether you’re new to surveying or you want to hone your existing surveying prowess, consider this a step-by-step, how-to guide with advice from the pros.

BUILDING YOUR TOOL KIT

First, decide what survey medium works for you.

For Capparella, online surveying through Jotform makes the most sense for his

business. It’s one of many online platforms (SurveyMonkey is another popular option) that allows advisors to customize questions, send a link to clients and easily interpret the data. If a client prefers to talk things out, he’ll happily jump on a phone call, or preferably a Zoom meeting, so they can speak face to face.

He’ll also occasionally post a poll on Facebook to ask about destinations of interest. But, he cautions, that’s not always effective, as Facebook followers may never turn into clients.

On the other hand, Angela Hughes, owner of Trips & Ships Luxury Travel, does all her surveying by phone — through text or call. This method offers her clients a personal touchpoint to help build a relationship, which she advises is a two-way street. If a customer has been difficult to work with or bad with communication, she may opt not to survey that person.

When talking with a client, she doesn’t even call it “surveying” per se. Instead, she thinks of it as a post-trip conversation. Plus, this method allows her to directly

upsell or cross-sell.

“I want new advisors and old advisors to think about continually asking for feedback and crafting those questions throughout,” she said, emphasizing the need for constant feedback. “There are so many missed opportunities in cross-selling and upselling when you’re just sending out the package, then you’re getting final payment, and then you’re just sending out the brochures.”

WHEN TO SURVEY

As for when to survey, both experts share a similar philosophy of following up to seek feedback after the client returns home.

Hughes never reaches out for feedback during a trip, saying it can open a can of worms. Instead, she recommends waiting two to three weeks after the client has returned to contact them. “You want feedback when someone’s rested,” she said. “The memory becomes sweeter for people.”

Even if they had a negative experience, they’ll now have had time to process it and get some rest and distance from it.

WHAT TO ASK

Here’s where you can really customize the experience.

Hughes goes for an open-ended approach in her text messages to clients, often drawing on what clients have posted on social media during their trip. She’ll say something like, “I followed your trip. It looks like it went really well. How are you doing?”

She’ll also use this opportunity to talk through pain points, when needed. She makes sure to listen carefully and identify problems, ensuring clients feel heard. For example, if a client faced constant rainy days on a river cruise, she might suggest an ocean trip for next time.

For his online surveys, Capparella suggests a comprehensive post-travel survey with several questions:

• Did you feel that you got the best value?

• How was your experience with your advisor?

• What was the ease of the booking process?

• What was the quality of your lodging?

• What was your overall experience?

• Would you refer our company to other people you know?

• Would you book your travel with our company again?

Some questions ask travelers to type out an answer, while others ask them to rate their answer on a scale from one to five.

In addition to post-travel surveys, he recommends sending more general surveys to your full database several times a year. These surveys ask different questions:

• What are some destinations that you’re thinking of visiting?

• Have you been anywhere recently that you’ve loved?

• Here are 10 destinations; which of these have you thought of visiting?

These questions seek to gather information on what’s hot, what’s trending and what’s on the radar for potential customers. Then, he’ll train his team based on those destinations of interest and market to clients about those places.

IMPROVING SURVEY PARTICIPATION

No matter which method you choose, and which questions you ask, some people will never respond. Both experts accept this as a fact of the business. There are ways you can encourage participation though.

For Hughes, it always comes back to relationship building. If you’ve built a relationship with a client and made sure to ask them questions throughout the booking process, they’re more likely to respond when you text them to follow up.

If you’re sending surveys via email, Capparella recommends offering a variety. If it looks like the same survey every three months, recipients aren’t likely to participate. He also suggests using creative subject lines to spur people to open the email in the first place. In the past, his team sent surveys with the basic subject line “Post-trip survey.” That only garnered about a 15% return rate. Now, he’s changed that to read something like “Ready for your next trip? We need your help” or “We value you and we want the best, please open.” Those subject lines bring in about a 60% response rate, a massive increase by tweaking a few words.

Capparella has found another way to increase survey participation: Make the name field optional. It provides a level of comfort for clients who may prefer to reply anonymously.

HOW TO INTERPRET RESULTS

Online surveying tools typically offer the ability to interpret data within the website, as well as to export the details into a spreadsheet. Capparella exports all survey responses to Excel, then reviews it, makes notes in the document and sends the spreadsheet to his leadership team for review and feedback. Every month, the leadership team meets, and those survey results help inform their marketing and communications plans. Survey results help them decide which suppliers to use, which destinations to focus on and what training to give the team. After that’s complete, they share important details with the clients.

“Always circle back. We have to let them know that their voices [are] being heard,” he said. “We’ll reach out and say, ‘Here are some

outcomes and results of the quarterly survey we did about upcoming destinations, and this is what we’re finding.’”

Meanwhile, Hughes opts for a more openended option: She’s looking for verbal data that indicates client satisfaction. One key way to answer that question is to see if the client recommends your business.

“Now [that] you’ve secured the business, you want to make sure that person becomes a marketer for you,” she said. “When they’re willing to recommend someone to you … that’s when you know they’ve been successful in the marketing funnel.”

THE BOTTOM LINE

No matter what kind of travel you’re selling — from luxury adventures and safaris to honeymoons and leisure travel — surveying can help you build relationships with your clients that will keep them coming back and referring friends to your business. Whether you choose to text, call, email or video call your clients, these experts agree it’s worth your time to ask the tough questions and truly listen to your clients’ feedback.

The Keukenhof Gardens complex in Lisse, South Holland, The Netherlands is one of the world’s largest flower gardens.

Travel in Bloom

GARDENS ARE A HOT COMMODITY RIGHT NOW — AND TRAVEL ADVISORS ARE WELL-POSITIONED TO HOP ON THE NICHE.

WORDS / ALESANDRA DUBIN

Travelers’ interest in wellness and outdoor environments is continuing to soar: 79% of travelers are incorporating wellness facets like forest immersion and mindful strolls into their travels, according to KOA’s Camping and Outdoor Hospitality Report. The report also found that nearly six in 10 travelers prioritize slowing down and enjoying experiences. Those priorities dovetail with the surging worldwide demand for garden tours, a category that continues to flourish as a niche for travelers seeking not just visual splendor but also the mental and physical health boosts that come from immersion amid lush florals and abundant greenery.

Understanding and catering to these preferences sets travel advisors apart in a competitive market. Read on to learn about garden tours in destinations from Asia to Europe and discover why these verdant escapes are captivating travelers. Plus, learn how to leverage this trend to enhance your offerings and meet your clients’ expectations.

GROWING DEMAND

Artisans of Leisure’s latest Luxury Travel Trends report points to gardens as one among the “special interest travel” trends leading the market right now. And the global special interest tourism market, already valued at more than $3.5 billion, is expected to grow at a rate of about 22% by 2030, according to the latest market report by RationalStat.

Destinations and operators are taking note. Responding to customer demand, Riviera River Cruises launched a garden-focused sailing along the Rhône. “We started by surveying our customers to find out what hobbies and interests they would like to see incorporated into our cruising itineraries,” said Will Sarson, Riviera River Cruises’ head of product for cruise. “From these surveys, gardens came out as the most popular.”

The company had previously offered escorted tours that focused on horticulture, and they were popular sellers. “However, going to theming whole cruises around gardens was a big next step for us, and we had the confidence to offer this based on the feedback we have received from our guests,” Sarson said.

Indeed, Riviera River Cruises’ new gardenthemed cruise on the Rhône has been a bestseller. The line has added a departure date that will feature noted British TV gardener Charlie Dimmock. The company is also working on a garden-themed cruise on a different itinerary for launch in 2026.

Girls’ Guide to the World offers tours for women in locations all over the world, including gardens from Mexico to Holland. Doni Belau helms the company and shared her perspective that the demand of garden tours is not so much new but well established — and perennial. “We’ve observed a robust demand for garden-themed tours, underscoring the timeless love and fascination for exploring the world’s most beautiful and inspiring gardens,” she said. “Spending time in a quaint or grand garden can awaken the soul even for those nongardeners among us.”

Claude Monet’s garden at Giverny in the spring

GARDENS AROUND THE WORLD

From the Pacific Islands to Europe, destinations around the world are emphasizing their unique garden offerings amid the hot demand.

ITALY: SOFITEL ROME VILLA BORGHESE AND STENDHAL TOURS

In Italy, Sofitel Rome Villa Borghese, in collaboration with Stendhal Tours, is now offering a five-night luxury garden tour that unites the beauty and history of Rome’s most prestigious gardens with the experience of the historic five-star hotel. It includes visits to the Borghese, Vatican and Tivoli gardens, as well as some of the city’s private homes. Highlights include gardens that have served as a place of meditation for popes since the 13th century, plus one of the world’s largest collections of peonies.

Left: Ruspoli Castle in Italy; above: Ninfa garden in Italy

ENGLAND: THYME

In the English countryside, Thyme’s gardens envelop the 150-acre estate’s houses and cottages, inspiring the hotel’s menus, floral displays and interior designs. The farm’s gardens are both a central draw of the pastoral property as well as working gardens and orchards that supply flowers for the house, food for the kitchen and herbs for the spa. Meeting guests’ interest in garden immersion, the property offers accommodation in the Gardener’s Cottage, which sleeps six. And situated in the Farmhouse are four newly refurbished bedrooms, each decorated with a standout species from the garden: Pink Phlox, Mixed Phlox, Elderflower and Sidalcea.

ST BARTHS: CHEVAL BLANC ST-BARTHS

In St Barths, Cheval Blanc St-Barths’ tropical gardens are designed by worldrenowned landscape designer Madison Cox. There, guests are encouraged to do “garden therapy” among the lush and tropical settings on garden discovery tours led by the maison’s head gardener, an activity established for guests to explore the gardens’ 160 varieties of plants. Guests are also able to book a Guerlain spa treatment in a private pavilion located in the gardens.

FIJI: JEAN-MICHEL COUSTEAU RESORT

Across the Pacific in Fiji, Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort offers an immersive garden experience that focuses on plant medicine. Helmed by the resort’s traditional herbal medicine expert, Billy Railala, the Fijian medicine walk is a guided tour that allows guests to discover traditional medicines contained in the indigenous plants that have been used in Fiji for thousands of years. Curated and cultivated by Fijian elders, the medicine has been available at the resort for several years. The offerings are now increasing in size and scope to be the largest display of traditional Fijian medicinal flora and fauna, featuring more than 120 different species of plants.

Monet’s garden at Giverny

Lush tropical gardens at Cheval Blanc St-Barths

Belau’s own favorite gardens are a diverse lot spanning continents. “Probably my favorite garden in France is Villandry — it never ceases to amaze and surprise me no matter the season,” she said. She also loves the “magical” Monet’s Giverny and the “more formal architectural gardens” at Alhambra in Spain. And she marvels at the Ryoan-ji, the zen garden in Kyoto, for its uncanny ability to “move every visitor who sees it.”

MENTAL AND PHYSICAL WELLBEING

Garden tours offer more than a chance for a peaceful outing and a knockout array of snapshots for social media. “There is now significant research evidence that supports garden immersion being beneficial to mental health and physical wellbeing,” said psychiatrist Michael Schirripa.

He explains that the practice is actually known within the mental health field as “green care” and notes that it is now being prescribed as a treatment for people with a range of psychological disorders, including depression and anxiety, and for those at risk of developing cognitive disorders, such as dementia.

“One significant reason why garden immersion is good for mental and physical health is because it is a ‘whole of body’ activity,” Schirripa said. “It engages people in physical activities, such as being outside, walking, being in nature, as well as the cognitive and emotional elements of being in a garden. The aesthetic of a garden enriches the senses along with the smells and sounds that a garden produces.”

The psychiatrist cited a recent Japanese study indicating that being around green plants, whether indoors or outdoors, can reduce blood pressure, stress and sadness, as well as promote a sense of overwhelming wellbeing.

Unlike some other more rigorous outdoor activities, garden tours are typically gentle and can be undertaken by people with a range of physical abilities. “Garden immersion does not involve strenuous exercise [and] can be taken at an individualized pace, and that movement is beneficial to health,” Schirripa said.

Further, being immersed in a garden environment also provides insulation from a range of external environmental stresses, such as noise and pollution. “This can create a sense of being soothed and calmed,” he said.

Belau underscores this perk as particularly beneficial for travelers escaping the harried conditions of modern life. “In this day of 24/7 screen access, just getting outside and breathing in the fresh air is a boon to the system,” she said. “It lets all those daily stresses just melt away.”

Garden path at Ryoan-ji in Kyoto

Wellness is on the Menu

THESE

PROPERTIES ARE FOCUSED ON THEIR GUESTS’ CULINARY WELL-BEING.

WORDS / JENNA BUEGE

FEEL GOOD FARE

Today’s diners want more than just a meal; they want dishes that fuel their bodies, align with their values and help the planet. People are becoming more mindful about what they eat, and it doesn’t stop when they’re on vacation. While the hospitality industry continues to adapt to this shift in culinary consciousness, a few properties stand out for their wellness-focused approach. And no, we’re not talking about fad diets like nixing carbs and ultra-extreme juice cleanses. Instead, think of hotels and resorts that are leading the way with eco-minded ingredients and unique foodie-friendly experiences. Feeling hungry yet? Let’s dig in.

WHY WE LOVE IT:

Honest Food helps travelers support local communities by eating regional products that are responsibly grown.

Honest Food is Iberostar’s take on curated menus made with natural, environmentally conscious and ethically sourced ingredients.

It’s hard to dispute the supremacy of fresh, homemade cooking; it just tastes better. Iberostar Group understands this, which is why the brand is championing “Honest Food,” the hotelier’s take on curated menus made with natural, environmentally conscious and ethically sourced ingredients to “tell a story of sustainability, wellness and cultural diversity,” according to a press release. Iberostar describes Honest Food as homemade dishes with no artificial coloring or refined sugars. These meals are always low in salt and are cooked to preserve ingredients’ nutritional value — think steaming, grilling or using specialized equipment like a wok. But the brand can’t do it alone. Behind this culinary magic is Iberostar’s partnership with local producers from whom it procures seasonal seafood, meats, fruits and veggies that taste better with every tantalizing bite. Now that’s a match made in culinary heaven.

PLANT-BASED NOMZ

WHY WE LOVE IT:

In the case of food, more choices are always better; especially when it comes to accommodating our vegan and vegetarian friends.

Imagine visiting a restaurant and finding nearly nothing on the menu you can eat. Unfortunately, for our vegetarian and vegan friends, this is a scenario they’re all too familiar with. In fact, there’s even a phrase for it: “the sad vegetarian/vegan meal.” Alas, on the sunny shores of the Yucatan Peninsula, one resort has said “enough,” stopping the dietary debacle for non-meat-eating travelers in its tracks — if only for a few days. We’re talking, of course, about Mexico’s Palmaïa - The House of AïA. The resort boasts full plant-based menus at its four restaurants, onsite health cafe and 24-hour room service. And, before cautious carnivores turn up their noses, “no meat” doesn’t have to equate to “no way.” Instead, the folks at Palmaïa - The House of AïA insist its exquisite array of handcrafted dishes will “surprise and delight” the palate of every traveler. Still can’t get on board? Fresh, non-vegan items are available as optional add-ons … “Not that you’ll notice the difference,” quips the resort on its website.

All menu items at

COURTESY OF PALMAÏATHE HOUSE OF AÏA

Palmaïa - The House of AïA, are made using plant-based ingredients.

GET COOKIN’

WHY WE LOVE IT:

With the skills participants garner, these interactive cooking classes are the gift that keeps on giving.

Have you ever wanted to take a piece — or should we say a taste — of vacation home? At Miraval Resorts and Spas, visitors can do just that when they tap into their inner chef through exclusive Life in Balance Culinary Kitchen experiences. In these hands-on workshops, guests cook alongside experts like resident nutritionists, beekeepers, farmers and mycologists to craft delicious, quality meals with locally sourced ingredients. Each session has a special focus on wellness, and participants will learn how to bring mindfulness into the kitchen as they practice adding flavor and texture to their dishes without compromising nutrition. A few favorite Miraval recipes guests can look forward to preparing include BBQ chicken bowls, breakfast egg muffins, brussel wings, Texas shrimp & artichoke and chocolate avocado cookies for dessert.

Guests bring mindfulness into the kitchen with Miraval Resorts and Spas’ Life in Balance Culinary Kitchen experiences.

MINDFUL MIXERS

As more people swap colorful cocktails and hoppy brews for their non-alcoholic counterparts, the hospitality industry has adapted to deliver delicious mocktails and other booze-free concoctions. A prime example of this is Loews Hotels & Co as the U.S.-based hotelier recently launched Free Spirited by Loews Hotels, the brand’s exclusive program dedicated to slinging handcrafted, nonalcoholic and low-alcohol beverages at its properties across the nation. Each mixologist-approved beverage on the new menu is made using locally sourced ingredients and allows guests to treat their tastebuds to unique flavor combinations, including the programming’s inaugural libations: Coronado Cobbler, a mix of Amontillado Sherry, citrus and a touch of sweetness; Okiru Martini, which includes sake, cucumber and honey; Boulevard of Broken Dreams, a fresh take on the classic Boulevardier with interesting flavors and no alcohol, and Pineapple-Matcha-Jito, the fan-favorite green tea served with a tropical twist.

WHY

WE LOVE IT: This new wave of non-alcoholic cocktails proves you don’t need booze to have fun.

low-alcohol

Guests can now enjoy handcrafted, non-alcoholic and

beverages at Loews Hotel & Co properties across the nation.

NOT A PHASE

WHY WE LOVE IT:

Travelers don’t need to subscribe to the idea of the moon’s mystical properties to enjoy this intimate openair dinner.

New moon, waxing crescent, first quarter, waxing gibbous, full moon, waning gibbous, third quarter and waning crescent; for all recorded history, the moon’s captivating cycle has intrigued and inspired, encouraging people to look not only up, but within. The moon is Earth’s constant companion, and, as far as wellness goes, its ever-changing nature is believed to aid growth and manifestation and provoke feelings of transformation and renewal. In Santa Cruz, California, travelers can experience the wonder of the moon as never before with Chaminade Resort & Spa’s Moon Dinner Series, a collection of multi-course, chef-curated meals and wine pairings led by astronomy and astrophysics experts. According to the property, the lunar-themed mealtimes are a way to “celebrate the beauty and scientific wonder of supermoons,” and we feel confident participants will be whisked away by a magical evening as they dine and sip beneath the stars.

Travelers can dine and learn beneath the stars with Chaminade Resort & Spa’s Moon Dinner Series.

FARM-TO-FORK

Blackberry Farm, a Relais & Châteaux resort, has mastered the tricky amalgam of wellness, culinary, outdoor adventures and hospitality. Pair this with its coveted location, 4,200 acres in the foothills of the Great Smoky Mountains, and it’s safe to say the property has all the makings of a memorable retreat. And, whether they spend their days melting the tension away at the spa or moving their body with organized activities like yoga and cycling, fueling all the fun is Foothills Cuisine, wholesome dishes served at Blackberry Farm’s three award-winning restaurants. At the heart of the resort’s acclaimed cuisine, which toes the line of refined and rugged, are quality ingredients sourced from the property’s land, onsite garden and the greater Great Smoky Mountain region. Imagine buttermilk biscuits and gravy for breakfast, a farm-fresh salad for lunch and a multi-course extravaganza for dinner. Finally, to wash it all down, Blackberry Farm offers a curated beverage menu that complements its culinary philosophy with local ingredients that honor the land.

WHY WE LOVE IT: Unbeatable views and local ingredients give travelers a new reason to adore the Great Smoky Mountains.

Seared Pekin Duck Breast: Melted spring onions, tamari mushrooms and hakurei turnips

How Indigenous Groups

Are Sharing Their Own Stories

TRAVEL OPERATIONS BUILT AROUND INDIGENOUS STORYTELLING BRING SOMETHING FRESH TO TOURISM.

WORDS / LESLIE LANG

Warrior Women, led by Matricia Bauer, offers a range of Indigenous cultural experiences, from weekly fireside chats to artistic journeys.

Rēnata West, founder and managing director of Pacific Storytelling, grew up in Rotorua, a small New Zealand town known for its Māori culture and geothermal activity. Five generations of his family have spent their lives teaching visitors about their Indigenous way of life in Rotorua and their approach to the world.

But West says he’s long felt that tourism often takes that sort of engagement with local people for granted. “It almost pays lip service or tokenism to the real depths and incredible life-changing influences that travel, that those stories that come from engaging with local people and communities, can have on travelers and the tourism industry as a whole,” he said.

That’s one reason he founded Pacific Storytelling, a luxury sales and marketing agency focused on the Pacific region. It helps travel advisors bring local voices to the conversation by connecting their customers with some of the top South Pacific experts in travel tourism, sustainability and culture.

For a long time, tour operators have been the ones telling the stories of Indigenous history. But now, there’s a push to hand over the spotlight and let people tell their own stories to visitors. West is among those taking back the narrative to share Indigenous experiences and stories with tourists visiting their native lands.

He points out that tourism operates under a social license held by the people who live where the rest of us visit. “There are people who live there — that’s their home — and when you leave, they’re still a part of that community. I think it’s just common good manners and a good thing to understand where you are and what the customs of the people are. And I think, ultimately, that it’s a more meaningful experience for you as a traveler when you properly understand the destination.”

CONNECTING VISITORS WITH LOCAL CULTURE AND STORIES

Pacific Storytelling helps travel advisors arrange Indigenous experiences and support tours run by Indigenous people.

For example, West talks about a travel advisor working with a couple that wants to marry in a specific Pacific location and engage with the local culture and customs while staying in luxury accommodations. “We can connect them with the correct suppliers. We can set up the ceremony with cultural elders.

Village activities taking place, Te Pā Tū, Rotorua, NZ

And we can make sure they’re staying in highstandard accommodations that, when possible, are Indigenous-owned and -operated.”

“We also help travel advisors who are traveling themselves because it’s equally important for them to be experiencing the culture on a first-hand basis,” West said.

As an example, he describes what Indigenous tourism can offer a visitor in his hometown of Rotorua.

“They’ll learn what our culture tells us about why we have geothermal there, how geothermal has affected our everyday life, how we cook in the hot springs, and how we bathe in the hot springs,” he said. “What are the medicinal properties of different elements of geothermal? And how does that affect our life in the 21st century with the onset of visitors? It’s our oral history and also factors in some of the modern history and the effects of colonization and 21st-century life, as well.”

Spread of Modern Māori Cuisine

Squamish

is a vibrant cultural hub showcasing the art, history, and traditions of the Squamish and Lil’wat Nations.

The

Lil’wat Cultural Centre in Whistler

BETTERING THE INDUSTRY

West says people leave an Indigenous-led visit having experienced a lot more depth to their travels and then appreciate learning about the culture and people of a place at a much deeper level: “It’s something you almost can’t quantify sometimes. It’s a feeling. Quite often, it’s an emotion. People feel a connectedness to something, and I think that’s an innately human experience.”

There is an opportunity to do better as an industry and as travel advisors though. “Let’s appreciate that we have a role to play in protecting people and place, and [when] possible, think about how we’re using our tourism dollars,” West said. “And whether we’re participating in being good members of [the] community. I think the ultimate goal is to think about the impact we’re having.”

He says cultural topics can be intimidating for some who worry about offending or making a mistake. “But what I would say is that there’s a lot of goodwill on behalf of these operators, and they want to share who they are and where they come

from. So don’t be afraid to ask questions. And don’t be afraid to connect with us and lean in. It’ll be worth it.”

“It may feel a little bit uncomfortable in the beginning, but it leads to a much more beautiful journey for everybody,” West said.

CANADA STANDS OUT IN FUNDING INDIGENOUS TRAVEL OPERATIONS

Canada is the first country in the world to have a destination fund solely designated to support the Indigenous tourism industry.

Keith Henry is president and CEO of the Indigenous Tourism Association of Canada (ITAC), which created and administers the Indigenous Tourism Destination Fund (ITDF). He said the fund is on track to raise about $2 million in revenue this year.

“It helps us build the industry,” he said. “It’s the first Indigenous-led initiative like this in the world, and we’re very proud of that here in Canada.”

Indigenous tourism is challenging everywhere, he says, because there aren’t destination market funds or hotel taxes

earmarked for it as there are for the rest of the tourism industry.

“So we said, let’s just mimic what they’re doing,” he said. “Let’s create our own volunteer funding program and hopefully attract partners, and that’s exactly what it’s doing.”

COLLECTING FOR INDIGENOUS TOURISM

ITAC, which is a national nonprofit Indigenous-led tourism organization, asks businesses to voluntarily opt-in to support the growth of Indigenous tourism, usually by adding a small fee to each of their transactions. Those fees go back to ITAC and are invested in Indigenous development, marketing, partnerships and leadership.

Some partnering hotels charge a 25-cent fee per room night, and some small businesses, such as cultural center museums, charge a 25-cent fee per transaction.

Rocky Mountaineer, a high-end luxury train in Alberta, B.C. that’s not Indigenously owned, asks its customers to donate $5. “They’ve got about 100,000 visitors, so that’s about half a million dollars,” Henry said.

The Lennox Island Development Corporation in Prince Edward Island promotes the prosperity and self-sufficiency of the Lennox Island Mi’kmaq community through various business ventures and initiatives.

Totem from Bill Reid Gallery in Vancouver, British Columbia

TAKING BACK CANADA’S INDIGENOUS NARRATIVE

Henry, himself a member of the Indigenous Métis people, thinks that Indigenous people “taking back the narrative” is important.

“Canada is not known as an Indigenous destination, and we don’t look at Canada in an ancient way like we look at many other parts of the world,” he said. “When we think of ‘ancient,’ most Canadians would probably think of Egypt or the ruins in Mexico or other iconic places.”

“But the truth is, we have that here in Canada. By taking back the narrative, we actually understand that there is ancient history and ancient culture here,” he said. “There have been generations of Indigenous people here for thousands of years who just want to tell their story.”

HOW TRAVEL ADVISORS CAN SELL INDIGENOUS TRAVEL

Like Pacific Storytelling and other Indigenous travel groups, ITAC focuses on promoting Indigenous-related travel. ITAC has about 1,900 Indigenous-owned and -controlled tourism business members from across the country, everything from large resorts to small tour companies run by individuals. It works to improve the socioeconomic situation of Indigenous people throughout Canada by offering economic development advisory services, conferences, professional development training and workshops and industry statistics and information.

It also works with travel advisors. “Our 1,900 businesses can, of course, go work with anyone they want, but we try and find the right sales partners so they can work with the right markets,” Henry said. “We don’t charge anything for that. We just try to broker the relationships.”

When a travel advisor or individual works with an Indigenous tourism business, it creates a different kind of experience. There’s everything from whale watching in British Columbia and hearing Indigenous stories behind the killer or gray whales to the Indigenous-owned Aurora Village in the Northwest Territories for seeing the northern lights and learning about their traditional meanings.

“The more you can figure out how to understand that diversity and different type of experience and help people imagine looking at Canada in a different way, I think that’s to travel advisors’ advantage and will help them increase their ability to sell,” he said.

Ahi Tuku Fire Ceremony

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NOT EVERY CLIENT IS THE RIGHT FIT FOR YOU; HERE’S HOW TO USE LEAD QUALIFICATION AS A MATCHMAKING TOOL TO FIND CUSTOMERS YOU’RE ALIGNED WITH.

Generating leads is crucial for any travel business. However, proving your value to potential customers can overshadow an equally important consideration: Are they the right client for you?

Lead qualification, the process of assessing a potential client’s needs, interests, budget and compatibility with your services, ensures that you invest your time and resources wisely. Not every lead will convert into a customer — and for those who do, you’ll want to feel confident that you can bring their travel dreams to life.

THE IMPORTANCE OF QUALIFYING LEADS

Qualifying a lead can save you a lot of wasted time, disappointment and frustration.

“When you’re a new travel advisor, you try to be all things to all people,” said Diana Hechler, travel advisor and president of D. Tours Travel, a member of Ensemble. “You don’t have any clients, so you want to help anyone who comes to you. The issue is that some clients will not be the right fit.”

For Hechler, that meant a client who was looking for a “five-star vacation on a

three-star budget.” The client asked for help planning a trip early in Hechler’s career, leading her to spend hours trying to find deals on fantastic accommodations.

“In the end, it was a pointless exercise. They would come back unhappy because they didn’t get what they envisioned, which would have cost more than they were willing to spend,” Hechler explained.

A lead qualification process can help weed out people with unrealistic expectations and zero in on those who are most aligned with your niche, which makes designing trips more efficient. A well-qualified lead is also more likely to move through the sales funnel smoothly and commit to a booking.

Hechler has found that, by targeting leads who are a good fit, travel advisors can improve their conversion rates and close more deals, contributing to business growth and success. It has left her with happier clients who are much more likely to make referrals, ultimately contributing to the growth of her business.

“When you have happy clients in the right segment of the market for you, they’re more likely to refer you. All my business is now repeat and referral business, and I end up converting 98% of leads into clients,” she said.

QUALITIES OF A STRONG LEAD

A strong lead is someone who shows a likelihood of being converted into a satisfied customer — but that’s only part of the equation. Determining whether or not the two of you are a compatible match is just as important.

While a weak lead might send emails to half a dozen travel advisors to see who has the best deal, a strong lead is willing to have a personal conversation with you, either in person or over the phone, to see whether your working styles and personalities mesh.

“There has to be an investment from the customer in the time it takes to make sure you’re equally qualified for each other,” said Bill Coyle, travel advisor and vice president of agent engagement at KHM Travel Group.

Look for signs that this person is serious about trip planning and values your expertise. For example, if a potential client asks specific questions about unique local experiences on the Amalfi Coast based on your travels to Italy and shows excitement at your recommendations, it’s a clue that they’ll appreciate your services.

“The basis of a good business is that you’re solving somebody’s problem,” Hechler said. “For someone who doesn’t know where to start or doesn’t have the time to plan travel, they’ll find that a travel advisor is worth every penny.”

While would-be customers may not know their trip’s exact cost, a strong lead is forthcoming about their budget and what type of experience they can afford.

“I prefer to have that very transparent, essential conversation about budget early,” Coyle said. “Let’s talk about what you’re working with [to avoid] me sending you something way out of line or way under expectations.”

Hechler takes a more subtle approach when talking about budget. Rather than asking directly about money during the lead qualification process, she asks about the type of hotels they’re most comfortable in.

“If they tell me that a hotel is just a place for them to sleep, that’s a red flag. They probably won’t care about a hotel that’s authentic or interesting, which defines many of the hotels I have good relationships with,” she said.

Another sign of a strong lead is a readiness to commit. If a potential client is prepared to

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discuss timelines, make decisions promptly and put down a deposit to secure their plans, it shows they are serious about moving forward. They’re not just exploring options; they’re ready to invest in working with you to plan their next vacation.

How To Qualify a Lead (And Close the Right Business for You!)

Qualifying a lead is a little like a job interview. You need to ask the right questions to determine if the potential client is a good match for your services — as well as whether or not they’ll be happy working with you. One of the best ways to start qualifying a lead is to ask how they found you, Coyle says.

“A bad lead is someone who says they found you online and they’ve been shopping around. But if they found me through a referral from a good client, then there’s no question that I’m working with them,” Coyle said.

Over 25 years, Hechler has streamlined her lead qualification process to a 15-minute conversation. It starts with asking the lead what type of trip they’re envisioning and listening closely for about five minutes. She

may interject with a clarifying question, such as if they’ve considered how many flights they’ll need to take if they want to visit several European cities in just a week, which helps her get a sense of whether the person is willing to listen to reason.

Once they’ve explained what they’re looking for, Hechler drives the conversation for the remaining 10 minutes for what she calls “sampling.”

“That’s when I show them how much I already know about the places they want to visit. I show that I know my stuff and that they’re in the hands of someone who really gets it,” Hechler said.

She’ll explain how to work with geography to travel efficiently within a country and mention neighborhoods she recommends staying in. She’ll offer strategic suggestions on ways to enhance a trip (such as cruising the Amazon headwaters on an expedition boat after visiting Machu Picchu), which both demonstrates her knowledge and offers clues about the potential customer’s travel style and receptiveness to her expertise. She’ll also explain what to expect when working with her, such as a package with printed

reservations and tickets and personalized tips.

Finally, she mentions her travel planning fee. How the client reacts to her fee is one of the most useful tools Hechler has to determine whether this lead will convert into a customer. She says they either offer their credit card on the spot (something she doesn’t require upfront) or they’ll tell her they need to talk to their travel partner, which is a sign that they’re likely not moving forward.

“That fee determines whether or not this client is someone who cares about traveling in the way I can provide it,” Hechler explained. “If they have to consult with someone else, that usually means they don’t understand the value. The client is in complete control the entire time.”

A thorough lead qualification process helps travel advisors curate their clientele, save time and focus on delivering exceptional experiences. It’s a win-win strategy that enhances efficiency and generates repeat business, while also leading to higher customer satisfaction. That makes the journey more rewarding for both you and your clients.

8 RESOURCES YOU MIGHT NOT BE UTILIZING ON VAX

MAKE SURE YOU’RE TAKING ADVANTAGE OF THESE HELPFUL TOOLS ON VAX VACATIONACCESS.

WORDS / CODIE LIERMANN

One day, long, long ago, a website called VAX VacationAccess was created for travel advisors to book vacations with ease. It’s since expanded outside of simply being a booking engine and evolved into a marketplace for advisors to consume content of all kinds, from brand information and webinars to inspirational articles and destination knowledge, among so much more. With a constant flow of new and exciting resources being introduced and enhanced, it can be hard to keep up with what’s all available, but these tools are created just for you and are waiting to be utilized. While the options expand well beyond this list, let’s take a look at eight resources you might not be currently using.

MEET VONDA

If you haven’t already met her, our Brand Ambassador, Vonda Keeler, is a great person to know. Have questions about VAX? She’s your girl! Whether it’s shooting her an email or stopping by the VAX booth at one of the many trade shows throughout the year, Vonda is available to help navigate your questions and concerns. And if humor is your thing, be sure you’re following her on Facebook — just search for “VAX Vonda.”

TRAVEL INSPO TOOL KIT

It’s hip. It’s modern. It recently got a brand-new look. It’s none other than the Travel Inspo Tool Kit. This page is filled with content to share across your social media pages. There is now a navigation menu across the page which includes tabs for Reels (new feature alert!), Supplier Shareables, Social Media Posts, Inspomemes, Memes, The Compass and How-To. Be sure to check back often, as the materials on this page are regularly updated to keep things fresh, fun and buzz-worthy, with the ultimate goal of helping advisors get their clients talking (and booking their next vacation).

FIND IT HERE: RESOURCES à Travel Inspo Tool Kit

BRAND SHOWCASES

If you aren’t utilizing Brand Showcases, you’re missing out big time. These pages are jam-packed with important information. The brands that work with VAX (which includes hotels, cruise lines, tour operators and more) house all their resources on these pages. Advisors can find anything from marketing materials and brochures to contact information and promotions. Carve out some time to take a gander if you haven’t already done so.

FIND IT HERE: RESERVATIONS & BRANDS à Choose any option from the dropdown and find a list of brands on each page

THE COMPASS SEARCH

We all know about the general VAX search feature, but did you know there is a search bar specifically for The Compass on VAX? On The Compass, if you scroll past the Trending Articles section, you’ll find “The Compass Search.” Here you can look for articles that might interest you or your clients. From savvy insights and advice for your business to vacation inspiration and tips for

FIND IT HERE: THE COMPASS àThe Compass on VAX àThe Compass

DESTINATION PAGES

VAX teamed up with Arrival Guides to provide enhanced destination content available on most of the destination pages. What type of content? We’re glad you asked. Anything from points of interest and videos to shareable guides and diverse content libraries. Best of all, much of the content is available in an easily downloadable guide so you can conveniently share information with your clients. Applicable destination promotions and webinars will also pull through the destination pages providing you with the tools you need to inspire more travel to a wide variety of places. New destination pages are continually being added.

FIND IT HERE:

DESTINATIONS àChoose any dropdown and start browsing destinations

OFFSITE PROGRAMS

We know how important education is, and one of the best ways to learn about a brand you aren’t familiar with is by taking their specialist program. While we can’t house every single course directly on VAX, through one of our newest features, we’ve conveniently compiled a list of programs for you to browse and take at your leisure. We already have 60, and this list is sure to continue growing. Simply find the course you’d like to take and click “Begin.”

FIND IT HERE:

EDUCATION àSupplier Training & Education àOffsite Programs

AGENCY LOGOS

The Compass already helps make content marketing a breeze. With one click sharing buttons at the top right-hand corner of each article, you can easily share content to your social media pages or in an email. However, we’ve recently taken this feature one step further to help drive more business to you. When logged into VAX, travel advisors will find that their agency logo and information are listed on the right-hand side of each article, and when they share the article with clients, this information is shared right along with it, so they know where to find you when they’re ready to book. Go ahead and give it a try!

FIND IT

HERE: THE COMPASS àThe Compass on VAX àClick on any article to share

SPECIALTY TRAVEL

Vacations aren’t one-size-fits-all. You don’t book a family vacation in the same way you book a honeymoon. There are a lot of different aspects that go into each niche, and we’re helping advisors hone in on a handful of vacation types through our Specialty Travel pages. Each of our dedicated resource pages provides you with a collection of tools and information you need to master lucrative specialty markets and create the best possible vacation experience for your clients.

FIND IT HERE: RESOURCES àSpecialty Travel

ADVISOR INCENTIVES

Working as a travel advisor isn’t a walk in the park, and we think you need to be rewarded for all your hard work. You might already know about the Offer Wizard or the endless amount of discounts available for your clients under the Promotions tab, but did you know there’s another spot filled with deals specifically for you? Under the Advisor Incentives tab, you can find exciting perks like exclusive advisor rates and extra commission. After all, traveling is one of the best parts of the job, and how else are you going to gain firsthand knowledge?

FIND IT HERE: OFFERS & INCENTIVES àAdvisor Incentives

It’s Time for a DIGITAL DETOX

TAKE A BREAK FROM TECHNOLOGY AND LEARN HOW TO UNPLUG DURING THE WORKDAY AND AFTER HOURS.

WORDS / SAMANTHA ANDERSON

Technology is the foundation of day-to-day life, and as a result, many of us are connected to it for most of the time we’re awake — laptops and desktop monitors hold our attention during the workday, and cell phones, tablets and TVs pass the time after clocking out. No matter the purpose, the need to be accessible is an allconsuming habit, even if we don’t always realize it. Our reliance on technology wasn’t always this strong though, so let’s rewind it back a couple of years and explore one of the major causes.

A CHANGE TO THE DIGITAL LANDSCAPE

It’s no secret there have been growing concerns regarding the addictive nature of technology for quite some time now, but the COVID-19 pandemic played a significant role in this elevated attachment. As employees turned to a remote environment and began working out of their makeshift office spaces at home, technology filled in the missing gaps of human interaction. What started as workers taking face-to-face meetings, stopping to chat with their neighbors and having lunch with colleagues in the breakroom shifted to a more isolated experience — video calls were reduced to little squares on the computer; brain breaks were spent scrolling on social media, and meals were consumed in front of the TV or phone.

Every aspect of daily life quickly became tied to various screens, and now, as employees either head back into the office or embrace the work-from-home era, a heavy reliance on technology lingers, but not without a cost. In fact, a 2023 study from the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center linked high volumes of screen time to symptoms such as dry eyes, poor sleep quality and mental health concerns. Feelings of anxiety, stress and depression are exacerbated, and cognitive functions like memory and mood regulation suffer as a result.

It’s easy to fall into the trap of dismissing these symptoms as a result of other external factors, but habits like incessantly tapping to check for notifications every few minutes, the inability to leave your phone in another room and engaging in social media — even when you don’t want to — signal an anxious attachment style to technology. It’s unrealistic to think the solution is as simple as eliminating any unnecessary screen time because the reality is, the modern world is a digitized one. Instead of feeling pressured to quit cold turkey, embark on a digital detox and try implementing some of these tips into your daily routine.

BREAKING BAD HABITS DURING THE WORKDAY

It’s likely easier said than done, but there are a few ways to limit screen time during work hours. First off, as tempting as it is, avoid using any type of screen during breaks, and that includes lunch too. Instead, try taking a walk. Whatever time allows for — a quick trip

around the block or a leisurely stroll through the neighborhood — stretch those legs, get the blood flowing and most importantly, unplug the mind. If the year-round weather isn’t conducive for it, consider other stimulating activities such as reading, adult coloring or crafting. Household chores like starting a load of laundry, prepping dinner for the evening or emptying the dishwasher are options too — whatever it takes to walk away from the phone, it’s fair game!

However, if physical separation from devices won’t cut the bad habit, try to identify those guilty pleasures, and make them harder to access. For instance, if Facebook is the first app you gravitate towards when taking breaks during the day, consider logging out. Then, anytime the app is opened, a conscious decision has to be made to take the time to log back in. The instant gratification of the feed updating is no longer there, and for many people, it’s more convenient to close the app than enter all the necessary information. Start to practice setting self-imposed restrictions to combat the digital compulsion and watch those screen time numbers drop.

AFTER HOURS INSPIRATION

A digital detox is something that can apply any time of the day, any day of the week, and for some people, the unstructured hours between clocking out and going to sleep are the most tempting for technology consumption. However, after looking at a computer screen all day, it’s even more important to find pockets of downtime away

from the phone to let the mind reset. In order to properly disconnect, turning off work notifications is a great first step. Often, these accounts are synced to personal devices, meaning notifications are coming through long after the workday is done. The guilt of ignoring messages can be overpowering, and a looming sense of anxiety can ruin what is supposed to be a relaxing portion of the day. Avoid these conflicting feelings by removing those notifications. Maybe it’s putting the phone on “Do Not Disturb” mode, changing your email settings to turn off at a certain time or muting a group chat — however those notifications come through, quiet them until the next workday. When these boundaries are set, there’s no opportunity for guilt to fester.

As unconventional as it may sound, designated no-phone areas in the home might also be a worthwhile tool to explore. If hotspot spaces like the kitchen table, bedroom or living room seem to encourage technology use, consider them as off-limit zones. Make the new cookie recipe that’s been sitting on the counter, revisit an unfinished puzzle or try a new hobby completely out of the ordinary — take the opportunity to do some self-discovery and unlock new passion projects instead of indulging in extra screen time.

Take digital detoxing a step further and turn those phones to black and white. The vibrant colors that make a device attractive to look at are meticulously chosen and placed to retain the user’s attention. Remove the temptation and the boring, dull screen will ensure that the devices stay down for good.

INDUSTRY CHATTER ON A TOPIC THAT’S IMPORTANT TO YOU

TRAVEL ADVISORS SHARE HOW TO KNOW WHEN TO FIRE A CLIENT.

“Firing a client is necessary when values don’t align or situations become unmanageable. This includes persistent disrespect, unreasonable demands, late or missed payments or unethical behavior. If the client’s actions negatively impact your business’s wellbeing, employee morale or overall productivity, it’s time to consider ending the relationship. Prioritize a professional

and respectful approach, explaining the reasons clearly and offering a transition plan if possible. Maintaining integrity and a positive work environment is essential for long-term success.”

MARCUS WILLIAMS, OWNER OF IMPRESSIVE TRAVELS

“A

s a dedicated professional, I strive to assist clients in curating

“Knowing when to fire a client is crucial for maintaining a healthy business relationship. If a client consistently disregards agreements, exhibits unethical behavior or creates a toxic work environment, it may be time to part ways. Signs include repeated missed payments, disrespectful communication or unrealistic demands that strain your resources. Before firing a client, communicate concerns clearly, offer solutions and set boundaries. For example, I recently worked with a honeymoon client who was consistently dissatisfied despite our thorough research and updates. We parted ways amicably (or so I thought), but they retaliated with a 1-star review on The Knot. Despite agreeing to our standard engagement/ consulting fee, they initiated a chargeback, after we agreed to provide a refund. This experience taught me the importance of setting clear expectations, addressing issues promptly and prioritizing professionalism even in challenging situations.”

DENISE CANON, PRESIDENT/OWNER OF TRAVEL CONCEPTS KC

“As a travel advisor you want to work with your clients to do your best to curate a great travel experience. Often travelers come to me with their ideas in a ball of confusion. I explain why this may not be possible to execute. Some clients cannot give up hands-on control, making it difficult to plan. Trust is important in the client/advisor relationship. When you refuse to trust the process and acknowledge my experience, I know immediately you are not my client. I tell you I cannot help you and politely suggest that you seek help elsewhere.”

CONNIE A ELLIS, TRAVEL ADVISOR AT MOKKA TRAVEL

a vacation package that best meets their needs. Building relationships with clients is paramount for finding the top match for communication, itineraries and budget(s). Phone calls and in-person meetings provide key indicators for expectations and set the tone between travel agents and clients. However, once in a great while, a referral to another agent could be a better fit for all.”

DANA PAWLAK, TRAVEL AGENT AT MAGICAL MOMENTS VACATIONS

“The best travel agency and client relationship is symbiotic. Each party gains something for what they offer. Often the exchange can become uneven. When the client has unrealistic expectations, there is a disconnect between the parties. Recently, a potential client wanted to travel to Italy to visit her daughter attending school in Italy. While at my desk with her traveling companion, they both were on their phones finding ‘cheaper airfares.’ The prices were oneway and not round-trip. I was advised of an exact location in Florence for a hotel. They thought every hotel was too expensive. Sometimes you can have a discussion about expectations. In this instance, it was the right choice to tell them I cannot assist them further and advise them to do it themselves.”

RICK ARDIS, GENERAL MANAGER AT ARDIS TRAVEL

“Knowing when to fire a client is important for maintaining a healthy business. If a client consistently disrespects your boundaries, makes unreasonable demands or fails to pay on time, it might be time to part ways. Additionally, if they cause undue stress, ignore your expertise or negatively impact your work with other clients, reassessing the relationship is necessary. Letting go of a client can be challenging, but prioritizing your well-being and business integrity matters. Trust your instincts and remember your value — making the right choice for your business is key.”

SHAMICA DAVIS, CHIEF EXPERIENCE OFFICER AT JTS VACATIONS

“I have past clients who have booked three successful vacations with me, but last year after I did extensive research, they did not travel. Fast forward to this March, and I quoted at least six resorts and date changes over the course of several weeks. On my last follow up call, the husband tells me he’ll get back to me with new dates. Never heard back and then see a picture they posted on Facebook at one of the resorts I had offered. This was a Sandals property, and kudos to them that they don’t play with pricing. We as agents are always given the same price as direct

bookings, so the ‘better deal’ doesn’t apply here. They just took my quote and ran with it. So disappointing. Read this recently: ‘Maturity is learning to walk away from people and situations that threaten your peace of mind, selfrespect, values, morals and self-worth.’ AMEN!”

JOANNE HUNT, OWNER

OF POMPTON

PLAINS TRAVEL

“Honestly, firing a client is always a tough decision; however, it comes down to setting boundaries for myself and my business. Thankfully, I’ve only had to part ways with one client who simply did not appreciate my services. They had a vacation planned in advance with me and then a week before travel wanted me to change the entire trip to a completely different destination. And that’s only half the story. Even after quickly putting together a new itinerary (I did charge them a change fee) they didn’t complete a portion of the trip and then wanted a refund. They never got that refund, and I realized they are not the clients for me. As travel advisors we have to know our worth and value with regard to the services we provide. Not every person is your client and that’s okay.”

JANIS BAILEY, TRAVEL ADVISOR/OWNER OF SOL JOURNEY TRAVEL

BALI

Succumb to its allure and embrace ultimate relaxation in this health and wellness haven.

/ SAMANTHA ANDERSON

An Indonesian province and part of the Lesser Sunda Island group, this tropical destination is known for its rich culture, friendly locals, culinary expertise and thriving nightlife, though the true extensiveness of Bali’s offerings is hard to sum up. And while this wide range of options means travelers can take a more customizable approach when planning their itineraries, there’s one thing

Bali does best: health and wellness.

Beautifully blending modern and traditional practices with spas, temples and retreats, the naturalistic R&R charm continues to draw millions of visitors to hotspot areas like Ubud and Canggu each year, where rejuvenation awaits.

CULTURAL INFLUENCE

Nicknamed the “Island of the Gods” for good

reason, Bali is home to a religious population with most of its citizens practicing a form of Hinduism known as Agama Hindu Dharma. At its origin, the Tri Hita Karana, roughly translating to “Three Causes of Goodness,” is a key element of Balinese Hinduism focusing on an individual’s relationships with other humans, nature and the divine. Overall happiness is achieved when these relationships are balanced, and often, Balinese healers will

WORDS

Visitors can experience the culture of Bali at the Pura Tirta Empul.

address both the spiritual and physical realms to restore this equilibrium.

The nuances of Agama Hindu Dharma are far more complex than the Tri Hita Karana alone, but with a basic understanding of the spiritual tenets, traditional Balinese wellness treatments offer a much more meaningful experience, providing travelers with deeper relief and relaxation.

WELLNESS EXPERIENCES

Whether it’s a long hike, morning sun salutations or a deep tissue massage, wellness looks different to each traveler, and Bali, with its endless array of options, has something to meet every need. From mountain landscapes, quiet beaches and secluded villages to luxurious retreats, guests can choose their preferred treatment while exploring the diversity of the island’s terrain.

The first stop for many travelers is Pura Tirta Empul where visitors can participate in a “melukat,” or water purification ceremony. A staple in Balinese Hinduism, water is believed to possess the ability to cleanse the body and spirit from impurities, negative energy and karma through immersion into a sacred water source. Local priests attend these ceremonies to help guide new guests through the prayer and purification process.

Visitors can also honor Bali’s spiritual roots by embarking on a sunrise hike up the active volcano and holy site, Mount Batur. In Balinese culture, it is believed that gods and

other spirits reside here, acting as a gateway between the physical and spiritual realms. Not only does the peak offer breathtaking views of the world below basking in the morning sun’s glow, but it’s also an opportunity for visitors to cleanse the mind and soul while learning of ancient legends.

Wellness experiences rooted in Balinese spiritual beliefs may not be every traveler’s cup of tea, but luckily, there are plenty of

other ways to enjoy a health excursion on this island paradise. Zero-gravity floating therapy at Solace Float in Canggu is a great alternative for clearing the mind. Each pod is filled with warm Epsom salt water that allows guests to effortlessly float; simply pop in the provided ear plugs and turn off the lights to mute external noise and indulge in a journey of true relaxation. For a more movement-based experience, travelers should find their way to the Samyama Meditation Center in Ubud, where they can choose to participate in dark or silent yoga retreat options.

No matter if a traveler decides to take a traditional or modernized approach to their time spent on the beautiful lands of Bali, there’s one thing that never fails to heal the soul, and that’s some good eats. Here, food is viewed as medicine, not just obligatory sustenance. As a result, dishes are made with the freshest ingredients, often seasoned with specific herbs and spices for their healing properties. The cuisine also caters to dietary restrictions with vegan and vegetarian modifications available for most dishes. Visitors should be sure to sample popular meals before departing, such as urab, a traditional vegetable salad with coconut dressing; nasi campur, white rice with meat, vegetables or eggs on the side; and bubur mengguh, a dish reminiscent of porridge topped with chicken, peanuts and celery.

Practicing the art of yoga is one way to connect with Bali’s sacred lands.

Urab is a traditional Balinese salad made with vegetables and grated coconut.

CELEBRATING ONE YEAR OF CONFIDANT COLLECTIVE

Look back on the milestone occasion and learn more about Hyatt’s continued commitment to travel advisors.

WORDS / JENNA BUEGE

This summer, Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection popped the metaphorical confetti in celebration of the first anniversary of Confidant Collective, the brand’s innovative learning platform created specifically for travel advisors. Designed to help travel pros understand and sell the 10 luxury all-inclusive brands associated with the Inclusive Collection portfolio — Impression by Secrets, Hyatt Ziva, Hyatt Zilara, Zoëtry Wellness & Spa Resorts, Secrets Resorts & Spas, Breathless Resorts & Spas, Dreams Resorts & Spas, Hyatt Vivid, Alua Hotels & Resorts and Sunscape Resorts & Spas — Confidant Collective comprises enhanced sales and marketing collateral as well as an in-depth training program for advisors.

So far, with over 30,000 users logging in, the platform has been wildly successful. To mark the momentous occasion, Hyatt underscored its continued commitment to travel pros by implementing even more valuable tools and resources accessible within the suite.

“Travel advisors are the backbone of our industry, and at Hyatt, we recognize and champion their vital role in shaping unforgettable travel experiences. We are committed to supporting our network of more than 30,000 professionals with premier tools and resources,” said Mark Benson, associate vice president of sales & strategy for Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection.

Now, advisors can enjoy a more user-friendly experience across the platform with exciting updates like enhanced functionality, navigation and resources in addition to swanky features like a tiered progress bar, a centralized marketing collateral hub and export options for both registered bookings and points history. Other updates users may have noticed by now include an improved password reset process and username recovery, the ability to modify submitted bookings up to 30 days post-departure, a dedicated navigation for advisor travel and exclusive access to limited training sessions and VIP events.

Another huge perk to enrolling with Confidant Collective is access to Confidant Rewards, the platform’s dedicated incentive program where participants can earn points for every booking made and redeem them for special perks including travel, cash and merch. Additionally, Confidant Rewards members are eligible for select bonuses, giveaways and events throughout the year.

“These recent updates and enhancements to the Confidant Collective platform are directly in response to feedback from the travel advisor community, and we are confident they will continue to help them grow their businesses and succeed in an ever-evolving industry,” said Benson.

As the Inclusive Collection portfolio continues to grow, Confidant Collective is a valuable resource for advisors

looking to keep up to date with the latest resort news and updates. And, with their stellar reputation, luxurious, awe-inspiring locations and elevated experiences, the brands associated with the Inclusive Collection are in high demand among clients too.

According to the Confidant Collective website, travelers staying at these properties can look forward to stunning amenities and accommodations, access to world-class spas, fabulous event and wedding venues, premier perks, and, perhaps most importantly, attention to detail by the company’s award-winning staff who are always ready to accommodate guests’ every need.

Advisors can visit confidant.hyattinclusivecollection. com to get started with Confidant Collective today.

OUR BELOVED FLIPPERED

FRIEND ANSWERS YOUR VAX QUESTIONS.

YOU ASKED: My clients are booking a longer flight to Europe and already know they want to upgrade their seats for a more comfortable flight. What is the most efficient way to find upgraded seating?

MAXWELL SAYS: Europe is hot, and we’re getting a lot of questions about how to book these products more efficiently. Upgrading seats on a longer flight is a great idea and something you should recommend even if travelers don’t ask for it like this advisor’s traveler did. The best way to pull those upgraded seats into your search results is by starting with VAX’s Advanced Search. To access VAX’s Advanced Search reservation tool, click on New Reservation in the top navigation bar. After filling in your initial Vacation Details, expand the Flight option. Look for the Cabin preference drop-down and choose from Premium Economy, Business or First Class to find what best meets the needs of your traveler. If you skipped these steps and went straight to the next page, you can still use the filters to narrow down your search results. Just click the Outbound Flights or Return Flights link and look in the left column for Additional Search Items. In this section, you will find the same Cabin preference filter that will allow you to quickly reduce your search results to the best match.

YOU ASKED: I signed up for a webinar but ended up not being able to attend. Do you run webinars again or can I still watch it?

MAXWELL SAYS: We get this question at least once a day. We know with the nature of the work you do, things can change by the minute, and when you have a traveler that needs you, that will always be your top priority. Good news: all the webinars hosted

by VAX are recorded!

Make your way over to the Education tab in the gray navigation bar and choose Supplier Training & Education from the drop-down. You’ll see tabs in the middle of the page giving you the option to look at Live Webinars, On-Demand Webinars or Immersion Programs. All of our recordings are posted to the On-Demand Webinars tab within two or three days of the live event. Once you are on the list of On-Demand Webinars, you’ll notice you can search for keywords in a title or filter by the sponsor of the webinar.

YOU ASKED: I heard VAX has a new way to help me promote myself. How do I use it?

MAXWELL SAYS: I have been anxiously waiting for someone to ask this question.

In the summer of 2024, VAX released the coolest new functionality on The Compass designed specifically for our advisors. When you have a logo associated with your VAX profile, it now appears in the right column on articles on The Compass. All you have to do is use the one-click share buttons to share an article, and your logo and call-to-action will stay visible within the article. It’s the easiest way to get your travelers dreaming and keep your name and contact information top of mind. Try it and let us know what you think!

Have a question for Maxwell? Send it to us at training@vaxvacationaccess.com, and we’ll send it his way. Then check out the next issue of The Compass magazine to see if he answered it.

WELLNESS

Across

1. These organic substances can take the form of a pill or gummy, addressing imbalances in the body or supplementing nutrients not obtained from food.

3. A type of cognitive meditation practice in which the individual is present in the moment, focusing on immediate senses and feelings.

5. A cosmetic practice that involves cleaning and painting the nails on the hand.

6. The practice of taking time for oneself and improving overall physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.

8. This scented liquid is derived from natural plants.

10. A certified professional who recommends personalized skin care regimens and performs a variety of treatments to address facial concerns.

13. A type of alternative medicine that uses essential oils to help improve a person’s health or mood.

17. Whether it’s done in a gym or at home, for the purpose of getting stronger or pure enjoyment, this health maintenance practice looks different to everyone.

18. A geothermal, naturally heated pool that contains minerals and is good for relaxation.

19. A type of spa that combines traditional treatments with advanced techniques performed by a licensed healthcare professional.

Down

2. Considered a traditional practice in Chinese medicine, this bodily treatment includes the insertion of fine needles into the skin to relieve pain.

4. Designed to relieve tension and pain, this relaxing practice requires the gentle kneading of soft tissues in the body.

6. An establishment that offers various relaxing beauty treatments in a quiet environment.

7. A treatment for the face that includes cleansing, exfoliating and nourishing the skin to improve complexion and promote a clear, hydrated appearance.

9. Often done in yoga, this pose involves standing on one leg while placing the sole of the other foot against the inner thigh, while the hands come together above the head.

11. A small room that circulates hot air.

12. Commonly used as an alternative medicine practice, this type of therapy relies on the use of water for treatment.

14. Tasty drinks concocted without the use of alcohol.

15. This treatment involves covering the body in a green marine algae mixture to smooth, contour and hydrate the skin.

16. A shortened term for the practice of ridding the body of unhealthy substances.

Find the answers at vaxvacationaccess.com/ thecompasscrossword.

“One’s destination is never a place, but a new way of seeing things.”

—Henry Miller

VAX VacationAccess has always had one ambition:

to make travel advisors’ lives easier and provide a platform for them to succeed. In no time, VAX became a household name in the travel advisor community, and as some may call it, their very best friend. Now boasting a community of 100,000+ leisure travel advisors, VAX has established its title as the award-winning leisure travel marketplace.

But you don’t have to take our word for it. We are proud to have won coveted industry awards for the many facets of VAX: our industry-leading booking engine technology, our marketing resources, our travel advisor education and even our presence in print. We’re always striving to give our travel advisor users the best and to keep our winning streak alive.

Travel Weekly Magellan Awards

Gold Award

Booking Interface

Education Program

Travel Agent Only Website

Marketing Website Overall

Marketing Campaign

Silver Award

Travel Agent Only Website

Marketing Campaign

Trip Planning

Booking Interface

Web Marketing/Advertising

Promotional Video

Educational Program

Association of National Advertisers (ANA) B2 Awards

Silver Award

Travvy Awards

Best Travel Technology Provider

Best Travel Agent Reservation System

Best Travel Planning Technology

Travel Weekly Readers Choice Award

Best Travel Technology Provider

Nexion Awards

Best Technology/Booking Tool

Content Marketing: Magazine (Print or Digital) Category

Travel Inspo Tool Kit

Power your agency’s social media and content marketing with ready-made social media images, memes and articles The time to travel is now and the time to connect with travelers is now Turn to VAX’s Travel Inspo Tool Kit to get the content you need to make those connections

https://www.vaxvacationaccess.com/toolkit