THIS CAN’T-MISS EVENT, TO FIRST-TIME HOST CITY SAN ANTONIO, UNITES THE GLOBAL TRAVEL INDUSTRY

TICO names Dorian Werda as Registrar

MISSISSAUGA — TICO has appointed Dorian Werda as Registrar, Travel Industry Act, 2002.

Werda, who has been with TICO since its inception in 1997, will now oversee all regulatory functions for Ontario’s travel agencies, booking websites and tour operators.

Richard Smart, who has served the dual role of President/chief Executive Officer and Registrar since 2014, will continue as President/ CEO, focusing on overall strategic direction and stakeholder relationship management.

On Werda’s new role, Smart said: “As TICO continues its journey towards an end-to-end, digital and risk-based regulator, there was an opportunity to refine our organizational structure and how roles are aligned. Ms. Werda has been a valued member of TICO since its inception and brings a wealth of experience in the areas of compliance and enforcement to the Registrar role.

“As we evolve as an organization, we continuously strive to enhance TICO’s value proposition for both travel consumers and Ontario’s travel industry.”

Four Canadian Direct Travel advisors named to Condé Nast list

TORONTO — Congratulations are in order for four of Direct Travel’s independent travel advisors in Canada who’ve been named to the prestigious Condé Nast Travel Specialists list.

The list, which features some 400 travel advisors and niche tour operators around the world, recognizes top advisors for their experience, expertise, resourcefulness and customer care. As Condé Nast puts it, “They’ll pull off the impossible and spare you the logistics.”

This year, Direct Travel, which recently rebranded from Vision Travel, is celebrating four Canadian additions to the list: Ariane Henry of White-Rock, B.C., who’s making her third appearance on the list; sisters Lisa and Nancy Zupancic of Toronto, who also appeared on the list last year; and Kathryn Velan of Montreal.

On making the list for the third time, Henry said: “Travel is my passion and I love helping clients really experience a new destination or a familiar place with a different lens. Helping create amazing memories for my clients brings me so much joy.”