by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 9:00 AM ET, Tue October 28, 2025
Carmen Gashnikov, Europe Express (Photo Credit: Carmen Gashnikov)
Bio
Born and raised in Cuba, Carmen’s passion for travel was sparked when her family immigrated to the US in pursuit of a better future. With over 15 years of experience in the travel industry, she began her career in hospitality with Marriott and Thomson/TUI, creating memorable vacation experiences for travelers. She later transitioned to the trade sector with Hotelbeds/Bedsonline and Europe Express, where she found her true calling: empowering travel advisors to grow their businesses.
Now Host Partnerships Director at Europe Express, Carmen is recognized for her leadership, innovation, and dedication to building strong advisor-supplier relationships. Carmen has made a meaningful difference in the travel community by championing the success of travel advisors and agency owners. As Host Partnerships Director at Europe Express, she has elevated the role of supplier–advisor relationships by building trust, creating collaborative initiatives, and delivering resources tailored to the unique needs of host agencies. Her strategic vision has directly contributed to host partner growth, while her advocacy ensures advisors feel supported in strengthening and expanding their businesses. Carmen’s ability to combine results-driven strategies with genuine care has empowered countless advisors to thrive, setting a new standard of excellence in the industry.
Carmen is 37 years old.
"It’s hard to put into words what it means to be named to the TravelPulse 40 Under 40, especially when it’s the result of simply doing what I love & a reflection of those around me. Even more meaningful is getting to do it alongside my colleagues and family at Europe Express, who share the same passion & inspire me to continue to make a difference," said Carmen.
"This recognition is a reminder that hard work, consistency, and passion truly pay off. Being surrounded by so many inspiring travel professionals motivates me to keep raising the bar and contributing to the industry’s growth. Seeing partnerships flourish and agency owners achieve their goals has been one of the most rewarding parts of my journey. As many have served as mentors and guided my path, I hope to do the same for other young travel professionals to help them see that no matter where you come from, you can make a difference when you lead with heart. I am honored to be part of this list & committed to continue to do my part to make a difference in the travel industry."
Industry References
It is a great honor to submit this recommendation for Carmen Gashnikov to be selected for the prestigious 40 under 40 program,” said Mark Yacker, VP of Business Development & Partnerships, Europe Express. “I have known and worked with Carmen for the past 6 years as her manager. It became clear very quickly that Carmen is an A-player with excellent knowledge of the B2B2C travel industry, a passion for service and the travel industry, and a work ethic that is second to none. I see her more as a partner than a direct report and rely on her experience to help shape our strategy, particularly related to strategic partnerships.
“Carmen exhibits exceptional qualities that make her a standout professional and a deserving candidate for this recognition. In her role as Director of Strategic Host Accounts at Europe Express, Carmen owns the partnership with a portfolio of large Host agencies and has consistently driven significant growth from this channel since taking on this role. She has achieved this through her natural relationship-building abilities, proactive partner support and creative engagement planning. As a result of Carmen’s efforts, Europe Express has seen 59% growth from the partners within Carmen’s portfolio…
“Carmen has been recognized as a rising star within our business and is on a promotion path to allow us to build a team under her leadership, and further expand our strategic partnerships. She will continue to be a positive force in our industry driving growth and innovation for many years to come,” said Yacker.
"It is my absolute pleasure to recommend Carmen for recognition in the 40 Under 40 list,” said Steven Gould at Steven Gould’s Travel. “I have had the privilege of witnessing her career growth firsthand, and I can confidently say she embodies the qualities of a true leader and innovator in the travel industry. I first worked with Carmen during her time as a BDM with BedsOnline, where her professionalism, drive, and ability to connect with advisors set her apart immediately.
“From there, I’ve watched her journey flourish as she advanced to Host Strategic Manager at Europe Express, and now, as Host Partnerships Director, she has taken her impact to an entirely new level. Carmen has not only excelled in her role but has elevated the standard for supplier–advisor relationships by fostering trust, creating meaningful collaborations, and driving initiatives that genuinely support the host community.
What impresses me most about Carmen is her ability to balance strategy with heart. She has a gift for always putting people first while also keeping a sharp focus on results and long-term growth. Her work has had a tangible, positive impact on both her team and the advisors in our industry (including myself). I am honored to call Carmen both a colleague and a friend, and I wholeheartedly recommend her for this recognition. She will bring the same energy, vision, and commitment to this program that she brings to everything she does,” said Gould.
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