Dream Vacations Travel Advisors Embark on Weeklong Itinerary Filled with Learning and Philanthropy
Fort Lauderdale, Fla. (November 18, 2024) – The excitement was palpable as Dream Vacations kicked off their highly anticipated 2024 National Conference aboard Celebrity Cruises® Celebrity Ascent. Anchored by this year’s conference theme, ELEVATE, the event aims to inspire franchisees to reach new heights in their business, delivering elevated experiences, expertise, and innovations for the ever-evolving world of travel. Attendees set sail on a seven-night Caribbean cruise visiting Bimini, Grand Turk, and Grand Cayman.
The conference opened with an energized welcome ceremony led by Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager for Dream Vacations, who introduced this year’s theme. ELEVATE represents a collective commitment to transcend the ordinary, push business limits, and capitalize on every opportunity for growth.
“Our theme this year, ELEVATE, challenges us to reimagine the standards of travel and service, to sharpen our skills, and to embrace innovations that will propel our businesses to new heights,” said Daly.
Throughout the week, three dynamic general sessions will offer franchisees the chance to hear directly from industry experts and Dream Vacations’ leadership, so all attendees leave with practical tools to elevate their businesses. Celebrity Entertainment set the tone for a memorable conference, capped by a Q&A panel led by David Crooks, senior vice president of product and operations for World Travel Holdings joined by Celebrity Cruises leaders Katina Athanasiou, Keith Lane, and Michael Scheiner.
Notable workshops, such as “Hey ChatGPT, Book My Clients a Vacation! How to Use AI Tools to Be More Effective and Efficient,” led by AI expert Dave Birss, reflects this commitment to future-forward thinking. Meanwhile, sales strategist Stuart Cohen will guide attendees through his 15-step plan in “Instantly Engage More Prospects,” providing a strategic framework to deepen connections with new clients.
The conference will also feature Make-A-Wish fundraising activities, including a spirited dance-off and a silent auction, continuing the 13-year tradition of supporting the organization. World Travel Holdings has raised over $1.6 million for Make-A-Wish. This year’s event brought together more than 900 participants, including 600 travel advisors, all focused on learning, connecting, and making an impact.
Attendees will also enjoy special meetups for new agents and military members, nightly themed cocktail parties, and tailored workshops for beginners, intermediate, and advanced agents.
“Our conference is not just an event -it’s an embodiment of our values,” said Daly. “Every day onboard will challenge us to inspire us to elevate ourselves and our businesses, ultimately providing even more remarkable experiences for our clients.”
Photo Cutline: From L to R: Katina Athanasiou, senior vice president, sales and service with David Crooks, senior vice president of product and operations for World Travel Holdings (Photo Credit: Watson Visuals).
About Dream Vacations
Travel agents with the top-ranked home-based travel agency franchise Dream Vacations have the resources to plan and create seamless vacation experiences for their customers while offering the best value. A member of the International Franchise Association, Dream Vacations is part of World Travel Holdings and has received franchise partner of the year, a top-ranking status, by all the major cruise lines as well as national recognition for its support of military veterans. Like Dream Vacations on Facebook at www.facebook.com/DreamVacationsFranchise or watch videos at http://www.youtube.com/DreamVacationsBusiness.
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Media Contact:
Michael Cadigan
Public Relations Manager, Dream Vacations
954-958-3627
mcadigan@wth.com
