NEST (Network of Entrepreneurs Selling Travel)

06/19/2024

Today we honor and reflect on the freedom and history of Black Americans. We celebrate the progress we’ve made as a nation while noting the work that still needs to be done. We’re committed to a more equitable world where everyone can venture freely!

06/18/2024

🚢 Ready to set sail without the extra fees? Book a Norwegian Cruise Line voyage through NEST now until June 26th, 2024, and enjoy FREE Pre-Paid Service Charges on all 7+ night sailings! 🌊

Don't miss this limited-time opportunity to cruise the high seas with more savings and less hassle! Whether you're dreaming of the Caribbean's sandy beaches or the Mediterranean's historic shores, now is the perfect time to plan your escape. 🌍✨

🔗 Book now and let your dream cruise begin!

www.findyouragent.jointhenest.com

06/05/2024

NEST was in Dallas last week for the sold-out ASTA - American Society of Travel Advisors Global Conference.

We’re excited to be a sponsor of the Chapter Connections mini trade show, sharing the unique benefits we provide to our affiliated agencies. It’s wonderful connecting with our owners, managers, advisors and prospects here and discovering how ASTA is always advocating for our profession!

We were among 1,600 travel professionals at the event discussing the most critical issues facing advisors today. Sessions are designed to help people run and grow their travel business. They’re exploring everything from how to build your brand and innovative sales techniques to the power of supplier partnerships.

06/04/2024

Ready to turn vacations into VIP status? With Delta Vacations, every dollar you spend on your dream getaways earns you Medallion Qualification Dollars towards Medallion Status. That's right, travel more and gain exclusive perks!

Whether it’s soaking up the sun in Mexico, exploring the vibrant cultures of Europe, or embarking on an exotic adventure in Asia, Delta Vacations has you covered. Plus, SkyMiles Members can save up to $250 on global bookings until July 31, 2024!

Seamless booking, exclusive deals, and the joy of earning more towards your Medallion Status - it's all just a booking away.

Where will your next adventure take you? Contact a NEST Advisor near you today!
www.findyouragent.jointhenest.com

05/28/2024

Sail into Savings with Avalon Waterways!

Receive FREE pre-paid gratuities on select 2024 European river cruises with ! Enjoy the beauty of Europe's rivers while Avalon takes care of the rest. Book now to ensure a seamless and unforgettable journey.

Don't miss out on this special offer! Contact your NEST advisor today to secure your spot!
www.findyouragent.jointhenest.com

05/27/2024

This Memorial Day, let's honor and remember the brave men and women who have served and sacrificed for our freedom. As we reflect on their courage, may we also find inspiration in the beautiful destinations across our nation that symbolize the liberty they fought to protect. Wishing everyone a day of meaningful remembrance.

05/23/2024

☀️Make Every Moment Simply Stunning with Delta Vacations!

Dreaming of a tropical getaway? Delta Vacations offers incredible savings on luxurious escapes to Mexico and Central and South America!

Enjoy up to 50% off rooms, resort credits, and more, making your next adventure unforgettable. Dive into crystal-clear waters, explore vibrant cultures, and relax in style.

Don't miss out on these exclusive deals! Book your stunning escape with a NEST advisor today and create memories that will last a lifetime.
www.findyouragent.jointhenest.com

05/21/2024

✨Celebrate Every Moment with Travel Impressions!✨
NEST is excited to announce Travel Impressions as our May Supplier of the Month! ✈️Seize your sunshine at Inclusive Collection resorts with $200 instant savings and hotel discounts up to 40%!

🌺Impression by Secrets: Tailored luxury for unforgettable moments.
🌿Zoëtry® Wellness & Spa Resorts: Tranquility and wellness redefined.
🌊Secrets® Resorts & Spas: Adults-only havens for ultimate relaxation.
🌺Dreams® Resorts & Spas: Family-friendly luxury with endless activities.
🌿Breathless Resorts & Spas®: Vibrant, social, and sophisticated.
🌊Sunscape® Resorts & Spas: Fun-filled, stress-free vacations for all.

Contact your NEST advisor today to book your dream getaway!
www.findyouragent.jointhenest.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 https://www.koretraveleducation.com/.

05/20/2024

Set sail on a luxurious European river cruise with Avalon Waterways, where every journey is a personalized adventure. Imagine gliding past picturesque landscapes, exploring charming villages, and immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of Europe's most beautiful waterways.

Plus, book now to receive free pre-paid gratuities on select 2024 European river cruises!

Experience the comfort of 's Suite Ships and the freedom to tailor your itinerary. Your dream river cruise awaits, find a NEST advisor in your area today!
www.findyouragent.jointhenest.com

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. Just over half the respondents treasure the flexibility to work as much as they like from wherever they like.

Forty-one percent delight in making people’s travel dreams come true. One-third appreciate the choice of specializations to fit their interests. And 31% love travel discounts and perks.

“Travel advising is a wonderful career with so many advantages,” says NEST President Kathryn Mazza-Burney. “We need fresh ways to get out the word, recruit promising new talent, and provide wide-ranging training that empowers them to be successful in their new field.”

05/16/2024

NEST advisors and suppliers built valuable connections in Fredericksburg, VA at the latest Lunch ‘N’ Learn.

The fun began with a mini trade show, where cruise lines, tourism boards, tour operators and more shared the newest products, developments and offers. Then a networking lunch with partner presentations provided another prized opportunity to exchange the latest news.

The goal of the training and networking event: to offer even better experiences to travelers.

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 booking travel is tops – named by 43%. Forty-two percent said advisors should have a grounding in supplier types such as air, hotels and cruise lines. Forty-one percent said customer service is key.

Training that covers a range of skills is critical, since new hires may not be seasoned advisors. Forty-four percent look for candidates with a travel industry background and one-third want people with client service experience.

Other desirable qualities include a passion for travel, detail orientation and communication skills.

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.

Fifty-four percent offer a job shadow with colleagues and 53% use supplier training programs. Three in ten rely on industry webinars.

Programs that train newcomers in a range of critical skills are less common. About a quarter depend on agency and industry programs. Fifteen percent rely on KORE, our comprehensive advisor training curriculum.

“This is exactly why we invested in creating KORE,” said NEST President Kathryn Mazza-Burney. “We wanted to attract new talent to the profession and provide them with a strong foundation in all the skills today’s travel advisors need to succeed.”

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

05/14/2024

How will NEST 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. NEST 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, theater, disco, bars, shops and waterpark.

To book Lopesan Costa Bávaro and receive exclusive amenities, click here: https://ow.ly/Um6j50REZNs

05/09/2024

Set sail on a bold adventure with Virgin Voyages!🚢✨

Experience innovative itineraries that redefine sea travel, crafted for those seeking spontaneous discovery and vibrant experiences.

Whether it's the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean or the charming coasts of the Mediterranean, Virgin Voyages offers an escape like no other. Book through a NEST advisor to unlock exclusive offers and enjoy risk-free booking.

Ready to voyage differently? Contact a NEST advisor in your area today!
www.findyouragent.jointhenest.com

05/09/2024

Being a travel advisor was Elizabeth Henn’s childhood dream. As a girl, she experienced firsthand the magic of excitement and wonder that travel brings. She knew she wanted to make travel dreams come true for others.

The story of Liz’s success as the owner of NEST affiliate LBAC Travel recently appeared in TravelPulse. The feature outlines how she started as a one-person operation and small local business, then grew to a team of advisors serving clients across the country and around the world.

Find out how Liz is coping with her greatest challenge here: https://ow.ly/wEHO50Ru2ot

‘Always remember – as a good travel advisor you are not just selling trips, you are curating dream vacations.’

05/06/2024

What makes Erin Johnson a successful advisor?

Listening skills and compassion for those around her.

Erin loves people and loves seeing them win. That’s how she’s built such a successful agency, NEST affiliate My Live Love Travel. Erin’s success was recently profiled in TravelPulse.

She works closely with her advisors to shape leaders in the travel community. That plus breaking into the luxury market are two of Erin’s greatest professional accomplishments.

Discover her advice for advisors here: https://ow.ly/xgbp50Ru1FE

‘Never stop learning! We work in an industry that is ever evolving and changing.’  

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-five percent said applicants don’t have the right skills. Almost half said the pay isn’t high enough to attract qualified candidates, while 43% said many applicants just want to travel for free.

To attract the best consultants, says NEST President Kathryn Mazza-Burney, “we need to shout from the rooftops that travel advisors are thriving. Those who are a fit will enter a wonderful community of talented people in an industry with unlimited potential.”

05/02/2024

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

The most common ways agencies find advisors: referrals (64%), networking (35%) and job listings (28%).

Another issue they face in their search is lack of awareness: 19% 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.

Seven in ten agencies plan to or may hire advisors in the coming year. But only 7% say it’s easy to find qualified applicants.

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

“The travel industry is facing a perfect storm,” says NEST President Kathryn Mazza-Burney. “Veteran advisors are leaving the field at the same time that travelers are eager to partner with them. As an industry, we have an obligation to attract new talent.”

05/01/2024

Today on Travel Advisor Day, we at NEST 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

Set sail on a journey to Northern Europe with Holland America Line and experience the majestic fjords of Norway, Iceland's intriguing lava fields, and England's historical castles. 🚢

✨ Celebrate Holland America's anniversary with up to 45% off, plus $300 onboard credit and 50% reduced deposits on select itineraries.

Whether you choose a convenient roundtrip voyage or a longer expedition, these cruises promise unforgettable adventures in some of Europe's most captivating cities like Copenhagen and Reykjavík.

Don't miss out on this incredible sale! Book your Northern Europe cruise through a NEST advisor today and start your voyage of discovery.
www.findyouragent.jointhenest.com

04/30/2024

Dream Big with Pleasant Holidays & NEST! 🌍✈️

Since 1959, Pleasant Holidays has been crafting unforgettable travel experiences across the globe. From the sun-soaked beaches of Hawaii to the historic landmarks of Europe, we've got your perfect getaway covered!

Why book with us?
✔️ Customizable vacation packages
✔️ Flights, hotels, cruises, and more
✔️ Expert advice and exclusive offers through a NEST Advisor

Ready for your next adventure? Contact a NEST advisor today and start packing!
www.findyouragent.jointhenest.com

04/23/2024

Ready to sail in style? Book your Avalon Waterways river cruise with a NEST advisor and enjoy FREE pre-paid gratuities!

Don't miss out on this amazing offer! Find an advisor near you today to plan your dream voyage and take advantage of this incredible deal!
www.findyouragent.jointhenest.com

04/22/2024

🌍 This Earth Day, let's celebrate our planet with travel that respects and preserves its wonders.

NEST is committed to offering eco-friendly travel options that ensure our adventures today don't compromise the world of tomorrow. 🌱💚

Explore sustainable travel opportunities with us!
www.findyouragent.inthenest.com

04/19/2024

Our Wayne Spector inspired a sold-out crowd at Cruise360 as he addressed how important it is for travel advisors to be entrepreneurial.

This month NEST is celebrating its 20th anniversary, and Wayne talked about how the entrepreneurial spirit of its members has driven the network’s success. He also moderated a hot seat session featuring cruise executives sharing the latest on sales and marketing.

Cruise360 is CLIA’s biggest professional development event of the year. It features insights and trends from expert speakers, spotlights new innovation, offers ship inspections, focuses on opportunities in the industry and provides plenty of networking.

04/19/2024

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 NEST advisor and snag $125 onboard spending money for extra fun at sea! Don't let this exclusive offer slip away – book now!

www.findyouragent.inthenest.com

04/18/2024

NEST is experiencing massive growth as it enters its third decade.

The first and only network for independent home-based agencies turns 20 this month. It’s celebrating by rapidly expanding. This year, NEST has accepted 27 agencies so far, bringing with them $78 million in sales.

“With NEST we have had more support and personal care than we’ve had for over seven years with our previous consortia,” said Lesley Sawhook of Exclusive Travel Partners, which joined in February. “We are so thankful for this team at NEST and all they’ve done for us in this short time that we can’t wait to continue to build this relationship and partnership for years to come.”

“NEST has been incredibly successful because it has stayed true to its core values,” said NEST Senior Vice President Wayne Spector. “We’ve kept our promise to home-based advisors to champion their interests.”

04/16/2024

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

🚢 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 NEST Advisor in your area today!
www.findyouragent.inthenest.com