Envoyage, a division of The Flight Centre Travel Group (FCTG), has successfully enrolled its first class of travel advisors in the American Society of Travel Advisors' (ASTA) new Verified Travel Advisor (VTA) certification program.
The global network of independent travel agencies has committed to 100 initial credentials in a move that will bring an added level of trust and credibility to some of the industry's top advisors.
More than 50 advisors attending Envoyage’s recent conference in the Dominican Republic were the first to complete the VTA Fast Track Course and examination with ASTA staff on-site to lead the training.
The news is significant in that it marks the first time ASTA has partnered with an agency network to deliver the program in person. Looking ahead, the next phase of the program will focus on the broader group of Envoyage’s members with a goal of 200 advisors across the U.S. network becoming VTA certified within the next six months.
To promote the VTA program, Envoyage will spotlight advisors who have earned their VTA distinction on its new consumer website.
"This initiative is about setting the bar for what professional travel advising should and needs to be," Christina Pedroni, Executive Vice President and General Manager USA of Envoyage, said in a statement. "By supporting the Verified Travel Advisor program, we’re providing our members with access to the credentials they need and deserve and the opportunity to become officially certified by ASTA, our industry’s leading professional organization."
"We are also underscoring that the Envoyage brand is synonymous with the highest level of professionalism, knowledge and integrity," added Pedroni. "In a world where misinformation and misrepresentation is rampant, we want travelers to know they can trust an Envoyage advisor without question."
"Envoyage is setting an important precedent for our industry," said ASTA President and CEO Zane Kerby. "At a time when consumers are turning to social media and influencers for travel inspiration, often without knowing the source’s expertise, Envoyage is making a powerful statement. They are making professionalism, accountability and verified training in travel advising the top priority. This is exactly the kind of leadership our industry needs.”
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