Explaining the Explore More Network

I hear from people all the time that they think I just sell Virtuoso properties. I talk about non Virtuoso properties often, but I don’t think people realize that they are not a Virtuoso property. For example, most all inclusive resorts are not luxury or Virtuoso (remember my warning from a few weeks ago – just because a hotel says it is 5 stars, that does not mean it actually is!). Virtuoso is just one of the many tools I have at my disposal. At the core of all of these tools is relationships. Bottom line is that relationships are the biggest reason to use a travel advisor. Those relationships come in many forms so I thought I would share some details today that help explain the tools that I have at my disposal!

1. My host agency, Gifted Travel Network (GTN): They help facilitate the relationships that I have with everyone. While I have my own brand with my own LLC, I have their support which makes me more visible with the myriad of travel suppliers around the world! 
2. Virtuoso: Because GTN is a member of Virtuoso, I benefit from that affiliation. Suppliers that are associated with Virtuoso are thoroughly vetted and most offer exclusive perks and amenities to guests that book through a Virtuoso affiliated advisor. 
3. GTN Preferred Partners: GTN promotes relationships with plenty of suppliers that are not part of Virtuoso. These companies are vetted by GTN, and I know that if my clients experience an issue with them that I can not resolve, GTN has my back. 
4. Supplier Reps: I have reps that I can reach out to at all large travel suppliers – whether that is a hotel, a cruise line, or a tour company. I also have a large selection of contacts at smaller, more boutique suppliers.
5. Preferred Hotel Programs: GTN is a member of most hotel preferred agency programs. Many of these hotels are not in Virtuoso. For example, we are part of Marriott’s preferred program, and because of that, your chances of an upgrade on arrival is even higher than if you are a high level Bonvoy member.
6. Destination Management Companies: DMCs are really how we create the most magic for our client’s trips. They provide in destination support that I just cannot provide living half the globe away from where my clients are visiting. Using DMCs means the price of the trip is a little higher, but clients are receiving a seamless experience with the best of the best guides and high levels of service. An added bonus is that they have people on the ground in destination if anything goes wrong and often guide clients through any emergencies – such as medical issues or losing a passport.
7. Rep Companies: Here is a recap of what I told you last week about rep companies … They bring awareness to smaller hotels and tour companies around the globe. These smaller properties do not have the marketing budget for a global audience so these rep companies get their products in front of the right audience.

As you can see, I am not piecing together the trips I create. I am working with vetted travel partners all over the world. That is why I do not book every tour you find online. It is also why I can not assist with every request that comes my way. I want to make sure that I can add value before assisting clients with a trip.