WHY IT RATES: As demonstrated at its recent 2022 Luxury Summit, Dream Vacations/CruiseOne is creating training and marketing resources and opportunities to help its advisors capitalize on consumers' newfound eagerness to take once-in-a-lifetime-type trips, now that travel is back on the agenda. - Laurie Baratti, TravelPulse Associate Writer
Knowing and staying on top of luxury getaway trends is more important than ever for travel advisors. Luxury is the highest-selling segment among repeat cruisers according to a luxury trends article by Forbes, travelers are taking their dream trips now. As a result, Dream Vacations/CruiseOne is continuing to invest in its home-based travel advisors by providing the most innovative and engaging resources to help franchise owners maintain and grow their businesses.
Recently, the travel advisors participated in the latest Luxury Summit, where more than 70 Dream Vacations travel advisors increased their skillset in assisting clients secure and book luxurious getaways. As part of the event, the team also announced marketing and training resources, including a new program that gives agents access to local tour companies in the destination they are booking.
Forbes cited that due to the health crises; travelers are seeking once-in-a-lifetime experiences. This was further echoed in the supplier presentations. The suppliers explained that all-inclusive amenities, gourmet food, and big, luxurious cabins are the most important decisions for travelers when they consider luxury cruise products. Attendees were enlightened about the factors that can sway clients. These include bucket list destinations and itineraries, the experience and reputation of the cruise line, and the recommendation of the travel advisor.
"We wanted to set the tone with the latest luxury trends. They paint a clear picture that clients are turning to travel advisors for their expertise," said Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager for Dream Vacations/CruiseOne. "We understand that innovation, customization, and consumer insights are key when growing a small business, and at our Luxury Summit, we made sure to address relevant best practices and equip our travel advisors with the latest tools, assets, and content to help them generate new leads, and retain loyal customers."
Dream Vacations/CruiseOne also unveiled a new program at the summit, giving franchise owners more ways to stay in front of their new and existing customers. Travel advisors now have access to In Country Partners. The program gives agents access to local tour companies in the destination they are booking. These destination management companies bring value by being locals, people that live and work in the location, and bring a wealth of knowledge to the vacation experience.
In addition, the Marketing Team compiled a robust directory of luxury suppliers' marketing portals, providing agents who want to market luxury products a one-stop shop. These portals provide varying assets such as social media, email, video, etc. which agents can incorporate into custom marketing programs.
"We are looking forward to using the Luxury Asset Directory created by our marketing team. This is just one of the many takeaways I can't wait to implement," said Amy Madson, owner and vacation specialist, Dream Vacations Madson & Associates. "Attending the luxury summit allowed us to hear from top suppliers in a short timeframe, giving us the opportunity to compare and contrast their products more clearly. This helps us better qualify which cruise line is the best for each particular client. The knowledge we gain from these types of events is an invaluable tool in helping us grow our business."
Those passionate about travel with an entrepreneurial spirit who would like to be part of a travel agency network that cares more about its advisors and travelers should visit www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com or call 888-249-8235.
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