TRAVELSAVERS Canada

06/19/2024

Sandy Knox is not only a Mexico specialist - she also lives there part-time. 🏝️ The owner of JWS Travel - Journeys With Sandy was recently featured in PAXnews.com.✨

Sandy shares her take on travel trends and challenges along with her most cherished travel memory. Find out what her secret to her success is by clicking here: https://ow.ly/rqCb50Sl3Om

Sandy Knox of JWS TRAVEL is a Mexico travel specialist. She’s from Red Deer, AB, but spends her winters living in Puerto Vallarta, where she gets an on-the-ground look. Her proudest itinerary to date? “I was able to put a wedding group together in less than three days when another agency did not...

05/29/2024

TRAVELSAVERS Canada is honored to be the first network invited to experience the new Sandals Saint Vincent and the Grenadines. Twenty-five of our agency owners, all top sellers, enjoyed four days at the all-inclusive resort during its soft opening.

Sandals Saint Vincent sits on 50 acres surrounded by the Caribbean Sea, a mountain range and rainforest. Its two-story overwater villas are breathtaking, perched above a vast turquoise expanse. Other villas include butler service and private pools. Suites may feature outdoor soaking tubs, swim-up access and private fitness or media rooms.

The group sampled the cuisine at some of the resort’s 11 restaurants, which offer everything from seafood and steak to sushi and pizza. Its nine bars offer unlimited premium liquors. Recreation options such as scuba diving, snorkeling, kayaking and paddleboarding are included.

We’re excited to welcome Sandals as a new TRAVELSAVERS Canada partner. If you’re interested in booking a trip, find an advisor near you at http://www.travelsaverscanada.com/.

05/28/2024

🌍 Ready for a summer of adventure? Save 20% on G Adventures! 🌟 From the pyramids of Egypt to the icy landscapes of Iceland, classic trips await. 🏔️ Feel the rush on active trips in Greece or sail the seas on our marine trips in the Galápagos.

Book by May 31 to travel by August 31, 2024. Start your journey with G Adventures and explore the world in style! 🌐 Contact a TRAVELSAVERS advisor to book now!
www.travelsavers.com

05/23/2024

Ready to make every moment count? 🌅✨ Dive into Transat's family collection, where everyone finds their joy—from sunset beach romances for parents to kids' club movie nights and TikTok-ready teen adventures! 🏖️ Enjoy perks like free kids' meals, teen deals, and Wi-Fi. 📱 Plus, exclusive on-site water parks and more!

Book your hassle-free holiday with a TRAVELSAVERS advisor and let the whole family bask in unforgettable experiences.
www.travelsavers.com

05/22/2024

🌍 Discover Central Europe's hidden gems withScenic Ocean Cruises! Explore charming towns, lush vineyards, and historical sites along Europe’s grand rivers with our Jewels of Europe river cruise. Perfect for those looking to experience a unique cultural journey.

✨Book now to grab your spot with free airfare and save up to $3,000 per couple! Or, find out how you can save even more, with discounts up to $6,600 per couple.

Ready for an unforgettable adventure? Contact a TRAVELSAVERS advisor today to plan your trip!
www.travelsavers.com

05/21/2024

Set sail on an unforgettable Mediterranean adventure with Princess Cruises! Get 35% off and sail with 3rd and 4th guests FREE! But wait, there's more! Book through a TRAVELSAVERS advisor and snag $125 onboard spending money for extra fun at sea! Don't let this exclusive offer slip away – book now!

www.travelsavers.com

05/21/2024

KORE students and graduates experienced the new Secrets Playa Blanca Costa Mujeres in Cancun firsthand during an exclusive fam trip. The trip is one more way the KORE program offers a comprehensive education to prepare new travel advisors for the profession.

During their four-night stay, participants toured area resorts so they can sell them better to clients. They also learned from suppliers including host ALG Vacations and had free time to explore and enjoy the all-inclusive adults-only resort.

To discover more about the KORE advisor program, visit
http://www.koretraveleducation.ca/.

05/20/2024

Wishing everyone a royally splendid Victoria Day! 🇨🇦👑 Whether you're exploring your backyard or venturing afar, let's make this long weekend majestically memorable.

Did you know? Victoria Day isn’t just a celebration of Queen Victoria’s birthday—it’s the unofficial start of the travel season for Canadians. It’s when everyone’s travel dreams start to take flight, literally! What's your top Canadian destination recommendation for this Victoria Day weekend? Share your hidden gems and help inspire your fellow travellers!

05/17/2024

The travel industry needs to recruit more advisors to meet demand from potential clients. One way to do that is to share how great the profession is.

Our recent survey found that travel advisors enjoy many career benefits. Almost half the respondents treasure the flexibility to work as much as they like from wherever they like.

Forty-seven per cent delight in making people’s travel dreams come true. Thirty-six per cent enjoy the continuous learning and development and 27% appreciate the choice of specializations to fit their interests.

“Being a travel advisor is a very rewarding job," says Jane Clementino, Senior Vice President and General Manager. "We desperately need more advisors and must make sure recruiting is a top priority. We also need to provide proper training avenues to ensure the gems that we hire have fulfilling and successful careers."

05/16/2024

What are the most important skills that training for new travel advisors should cover?

A recent survey of our affiliated advisors said customer service is tops – named by 58%. Forty-seven per cent said advisors should have a grounding in sales, and 44% said booking travel is key.

Training that covers a range of skills is critical, since new hires may not be seasoned advisors. Sixty-four per cent look for candidates with a travel industry background, 31% want people with communication skills and 29% seek candidates with customer service experience.

Other desirable qualities include sales savvy, a passion for travel and detail orientation.

05/15/2024

A huge majority of our affiliated travel advisors agree training new consultants is important. But there’s no consensus on how to do that.

To relieve the current advisor shortage, agencies are prioritizing finding and onboarding new consultants. Our recent survey sheds light on the diverse ways agencies train them.

Two-thirds offer a job shadow with colleagues and 38% use supplier training programs. Thirty-six per cent rely on industry webinars.

Programs that train newcomers in a range of critical skills are less common. One in five depends on agency programs. Eighteen per cent rely on KORE, our comprehensive advisor training curriculum that's new to Canada.

“We’re delighted that KORE is now available here as we really believe it’s the best-in-class training platform, and we encourage all of our agencies to enroll new recruits into the program," says Jane Clementino, Senior Vice President and General Manager.

Find out more about KORE here: www.koretraveleducation.ca

05/14/2024

How will TRAVELSAVERS grow the success of its affiliated agencies and preferred partners in the coming year?

That was the overarching topic at the network’s annual planning meeting, held at the stunning Lopesan Costa Bávaro Resort Spa & Casino in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Attendees discussed emerging trends and how to make the most of them with new marketing, technology and professional development advances.

Thank you to Lopesan Costa Bávaro for being a wonderful host. TRAVELSAVERS staff toured the luxury resort, enjoyed a rooftop reception and danced the night away at a farewell fiesta. They even learned how to craft the perfect margarita with instruction from an expert mixologist.

The all-inclusive resort occupies a prime location along the white sands of Bávaro Beach. Swim in the turquoise waters or in one of the resort’s seven pools. Enjoy 10 restaurants spanning Italian, pan-Asian, French and Mexican cuisine and more. For entertainment, visit the Boulevard, with its casino, theatre, disco, bars, shops and waterpark.

To book Lopesan Costa Bávaro and receive exclusive amenities, click here: https://ow.ly/P82o50RF1y3

05/03/2024

Travel agencies are facing an uphill battle to find and hire the next generation of advisors. Many interested candidates aren’t a fit for the profession, according to a new survey of our affiliated advisors.

Fifty-nine per cent said applicants don’t have the right skills. The same percentage - 59% - said the pay isn’t high enough to attract qualified candidates, while 32% said many applicants just want to travel for free.

“As a travel advisor, you’re running your own business,” says Jane Clementino, Senior Vice President and General Manager. “And this boils down to three key things – investing in building a network, getting the right training, and delivering excellence in client services – to be successful in this industry.”

05/02/2024

Travel agencies are trying many methods to solve a big challenge: finding new advisors. Our new survey offers insights into the issues facing agencies looking for talent.

The most common ways agencies find advisors: referrals (56%), job listings (47%) and social media posts (36%).

Another issue they face in their search is lack of awareness: 23% say people don’t know the travel advisor profession still exists.

05/01/2024

To honor , our new survey provides insights into one of the profession’s biggest challenges: an advisor shortage.

Nearly 90% of our agencies plan to or may hire advisors in the coming year. But only 2% say it’s easy to find qualified applicants.

Of the agencies hoping to hire, two-thirds want to fill more than one position. One-quarter say they would bring on as many good candidates as they can find.

“We’re delighted to experience such momentum around leisure travel,” says Jane Clementino, Senior Vice President and General Manager. “Our concern is not having enough staff to support the increased clientele. As an industry, we have an obligation to attract new talent to get ahead of the huge demand we face.”

05/01/2024

Today on Travel Advisor Day, we at TRAVELSAVERS celebrate the invaluable contributions of travel advisors.

Their expertise transforms your trips into meticulously crafted adventures. From navigating the complexities of travel bookings to personalizing your itinerary, our advisors ensure each journey is as unique as you are.

Join us in appreciating these professionals who do so much more than plan trips; they create memories that last a lifetime. 🌍✈️

04/30/2024

Dreaming of mastering the art of Italian cooking? 🍝✨ With Bedsonline US & Canada and TRAVELSAVERS, you can immerse yourself in the flavors of Rome, learning to craft perfect pasta and tiramisu from local experts! Transform your culinary skills and indulge in the rich tastes of Italy.

Ready to whisk yourself away on this delicious journey? Contact your TRAVELSAVERS advisor today and start planning your unforgettable Italian cooking adventure!
www.travelsavers.com

04/30/2024

Celebrate Holland America Line's Anniversary Sale with us at TRAVELSAVERS!

🚢 Set sail with up to 45% off cruise fares, enjoy up to $300 onboard credit per stateroom, and benefit from 50% reduced deposits. Plus, fantastic deals for 3rd/4th guests.

Don't miss out on unforgettable destinations and renowned service. Book by April 30 to lock in these incredible savings.

For more details, contact a TRAVELSAVERS Advisor in your area today!
www.travelsavers.com

04/25/2024

Be truthful, be respectful and always be honest.

That’s Leo Sgovio’s secret to success. The owner of TRAVELSAVERS affiliate Markham Cruise & Travel Centre shared insights on his successful career with PAXnews.com in a recent feature.

Leo dipped his toe in the travel planning waters with an annual golf trip that he started organizing 15 years ago. From there, he’s built a full-service agency specializing in cruising. “I have a passion for making people’s dreams come true,” says Leo.

Find out his top advice to other advisors by clicking here: https://ow.ly/Fhp550Rnzjg

Leo Sgovio of Markham Cruise & Travel Centre has been a travel advisor for seven years, but has been a business owner for almost 30 years. The proudest booking he ever made was creating an FIT "all over Italy, from Venice to Sicily." His personal motto? “If I wouldn’t go there, I will not send y...

04/22/2024

04/18/2024

Our popular Dine & Discover event has returned to Toronto!

A full room of advisors and suppliers built valuable connections at the education and networking event. Adding to the fun this year: a new travel trivia contest with prizes for the winners.

During a trade show, preferred partners shared the latest product news and trends with advisors.

Dinner was the perfect opportunity for everyone to catch up informally and enjoy the camaraderie of the event.

04/10/2024

Are you following our newest profile on social media?

Our KORE travel education program has debuted on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/koretraveleducation/. There you'll discover what's up with the innovative, all-online program that's recruiting and educating the next generation of travel advisors.

The KORE Instagram profile shares sneak peeks of the in-depth curriculum, testimonials from participants, media coverage, the program's presence at events and much more.

04/04/2024

Canadians are getting more adventurous with cruise itineraries this year, booking sailings to more exotic destinations.

As wave season ends, TRAVELSAVERS Canada reports ocean cruise bookings are up 34% in the first quarter this year over last.

Sales to popular cruise destinations such as the Caribbean, Alaska and Europe are growing. But the strongest increases are for less traditional journeys. For premium cruise bookings, Asia is up 148% and South America is 57% higher than 2023.

04/03/2024

As industry demand for travel professionals continues to increase, we’re thrilled to launch KORE, a gold-standard education program, in Canada.

KORE is a comprehensive digital platform that attracts and trains the incoming tide of new travel advisors and equips them with the skills they need to succeed in the industry as it continues to evolve.

KORE's premier education program is a great fit for aspiring travel professionals and individuals looking for a career change, as well as a wonderful tool for travel agency owners.

Learn more about what makes KORE different and enroll on our website: http://www.koretraveleducation.ca/.

04/02/2024

Improving the quality of life for people with autism is a cause close to our heart. Today, on , we salute everyone who promotes understanding, acceptance and encouragement for people with autism.

For more than 15 years, we’ve supported Autism Speaks. The organization enables individuals with autism to reach their potential and live meaningful lives.

We’re proud to have raised close to $500,000 for Autism Speaks. We’re grateful for all those who have helped us in our drive to create a more inclusive society for people with autism.

03/27/2024

Dreaming of your next getaway? ✈️ Look no further than Transat Travel for an unforgettable travel experience!

From exotic beach destinations to exciting city escapes, Transat has it all. Book now through TRAVELSAVERS and turn your travel dreams into reality.

Find your advisor today to start planning your next adventure!
www.travelsavers.com

03/27/2024

Our latest Dine & Discover event in Montreal was a hit! ✨

Organized by Director of Business Development Marylène Lupien and Senior Vice President Jane Clementino, the event facilitated networking and education among travel agency owners, advisors and preferred partners.

Among great food, drinks, and conversation, our guests went through the travel industry version of “speed-dating” through round-table talk and timed sessions.

Check out Profession Voyages’ article on the event here: https://ow.ly/g78t50R3teU



Nous avons organisé un autre événement Dégustez et Découvrez (cette fois à Montréal) et la soirée était un grand succès! ✨

Organisé par notre directrice du développement des affaires, Marylène Lupien, et notre vice-présidente principale, Jane Clementino, l'objectif de l'événement était de faciliter le réseautage et l'éducation entre les propriétaires, les conseillers et les partenaires privilégiés de l'industrie du voyage.

Entre repas, verres, et discussions, nos invités ont participé à la version «speed-dating» de l'industrie du voyage autour des tables rondes.

Vous pouvez en savoir plus sur la soirée à Montréal en lisant l'article de Profession Voyages ici: https://ow.ly/g78t50R3teU

Au programme de l'événement Dégustez et Découvrez de TravelSavers : Réseautage, échange, jeu-questionnaire et développement des affaires.

03/14/2024

✨ Dive into the magic of guided tours with CIE Tours, available through TRAVELSAVERS!

🌍 Discover the charm of Ireland, Scotland, England, and beyond, where expert storytellers guide you through breathtaking landscapes and captivating history.

Plus, with our exclusive offer, save up to $1,100 per couple on select tours to Ireland!

🍀Explore ancient castles, wander through quaint villages, and savor authentic culinary experiences on your journey. With tour options catering to every traveler's preferences, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Let TRAVELSAVERS be your gateway to unforgettable adventures with CIE Tours. Contact us today to start planning your guided tour experience!
https://www.travelsavers.com

03/11/2024

When massive winter storms hit, the potential for flight delays increases exponentially. Fortunately, agent24 is here to help affected travelers.

The after-hours service provider handles up to 400% of its normal call volumes when weather wreaks havoc with flight schedules. The TRAVELSAVERS sister company is one of North America’s largest providers of travel support.

Demand for agent24’s services is increasing, as flight disruptions are dramatically above typical norms. Increasingly extreme weather, a shortage of travel advisors, and an upswing in corporate travel are all contributing to the growing need.

Discover more about the service that gives travel advisors and their clients peace of mind here:
https://ow.ly/MMYw50QOUZE.

03/08/2024

Happy International Women's Day from TRAVELSAVERS! Today, we celebrate the strength, resilience, and achievements of women around the world. 🌎

To all the fearless female travelers who inspire us with their wanderlust and adventurous spirit, we salute you!

May your journeys be filled with empowerment, exploration, and unforgettable experiences.

As we honor the remarkable women who have shaped the world of travel, let's continue to uplift and support each other on our journey to new horizons. ✈️

Here's to women making waves, breaking barriers, and creating lasting memories wherever they roam.