The Newest Instagram Update That Changes Everything (And Why Travel Advisors Should Care)
Here's the deal: As of today, Instagram officially launched the feature that lets Google and other search engines index content from business and creator accounts. Translation: Your Instagram posts can now show up in organic Google search results alongside all the other videos, news articles, and blog posts. Not just your profile but your actual posts, Reels, carousels, all of it.
A Million Dollar Journey from Uncomfortable to Unstoppable
We often talk about the mechanics of building a successful travel business: the marketing strategies, the sales techniques, the operational systems. But my conversation with Anna Harrison of Travel Observations on The Travel Business Unpacked podcast recently reminded me that the real foundation of success lies somewhere deeper - in our willingness to embrace discomfort as a catalyst for transformation.
The Hidden Gaps Experienced Advisors Face - And How to Fill Them
In luxury travel, experience counts. The destinations you've explored, the relationships you've cultivated, the complex itineraries you've managed, these all shape how well you serve your clients. Yet even the most accomplished travel professionals can encounter unexpected challenges when they decide to build and scale their own business. What they may not realize is that selling travel and running a travel business aren’t the same thing.
Alignment Vs. Achievement: When Success Stops Feeling Like Success
Jerzy spent years switching between corporate roles, searching for that elusive sense of fulfillment. Sound familiar? Sometimes we need to acknowledge that the disconnect isn't coming from the specific job or company; it's the path itself.
Why Travel Advisors Need to Overcome Their AI Fears
Every time I open social media, there's another post/reel/carousel about AI. Some are helpful, introducing me to new tools and techniques. Others are silly and fun, sharing creative prompts like generating an image of what my dog would look like as a Muppet. But there's also a lot of doom and gloom about how AI will replace jobs and destroy creativity. I’ve heard a lot from travel advisors in particular, nervous that clients can just tell AI where they want to go and generate their own "perfect" itinerary.
What's in a Name? Everything, Actually
The hardest part of any project is naming it. It seems so simple, doesn't it? Just pick some words that capture what you're trying to say. But anyone who's ever stared at a blank document, wrestling with what to call their creation, knows the weight that sits behind those few syllables.
Making the Intentional Choice to Build a Splendid Life
Have you ever had one of those moments where life hits you from every direction? That was Eysa Portugues in early 2020. After building a solid career in telecommunications and luxury goods, she suddenly found herself laid off.
Demystifying LinkedIn for Travel Advisors
LinkedIn is a great tool for some advisors, especially those who came into this industry from other careers. If you’ve spent years in a corporate role and already have a strong professional network, there’s a good chance at least some of your ideal clients are already on LinkedIn. So, it makes sense to meet them there.
Navigating Growth: Inside Gifted Travel Network's 3rd Annual Symposium
Gifted Travel Network (GTN) distinguishes itself by its deep-rooted commitment to education and mentorship, a philosophy powerfully demonstrated at its third annual Symposium, held March 26 – April 1, 2025. This year's immersive experience took place aboard the Avalon Poetry II river cruise along the Rhône River, beginning and ending in Arles, France.
Gifted Travel Network Launches The Swirl - A New Weekly LinkedIn Newsletter for Luxury Travel Professionals
Gifted Travel Network (GTN) announced the launch of "The Swirl: Insights & Inspiration for Luxury Travel Advisors," a weekly newsletter dedicated to supporting travel entrepreneurs and industry partners in the luxury travel space.
Two Callings: Merry Jennifer Markham’s Success in Medicine and Travel
In the world of travel entrepreneurship, success stories come in all forms, but few are as inspiring as that of Merry Jennifer “MJ” Markham. A practicing oncologist, MJ discovered that travel was more than just a personal passion - it was a necessity for balance and well-being.
Motherhood & Travel Entrepreneurship: Can You Have Both?
Motherhood and entrepreneurship—two of life's most demanding yet rewarding paths. For many women, the thought of combining these two paths may seem overwhelming. But for those who take the leap, the rewards can be life-changing.
Banking on Bliss: Heather Parker’s Journey to Luxury Travel Success
What happens when a 20-year veteran of the banking industry takes a leap of faith to follow her heart? For Heather Parker, the answer is a successful career as a luxury travel entrepreneur.
"My Hobby is My Job": How Jen Campbell Boles Turned a Passion for Travel into a Thriving Business
Jen shares her inspiring journey from corporate finance to becoming a top travel advisor. Let’s dive into how she transitioned from managing finances to managing dream vacations for families, and how her passion for travel became a thriving business.
Gifted Travel Network Announces 2025 Top Producers Club & Million Dollar Advisors
The Top Producers Club (TPC) recognizes the network's highest-performing agencies. Million Dollar Advisor (MDA) is a recognition to acknowledge and celebrate the GTN advisors who have surpassed $1 million in 2024 sales.
Celebrating the Incredible Mentors of Travel Business University
In celebration of January's National Mentoring Month, we’re thrilled to take a moment to express heartfelt gratitude to the incredible mentors of Travel Business University. Week after week, they generously dedicate their time and expertise to support Gifted Travel Network advisors, guiding our members through the ever-changing currents of the travel industry.
Gifted Travel Network Becomes Part of Trevello World Holdings Inc.
Trevello World Holdings Inc., parent company of Trevello Canada, the leading host agency in Canada, today announced its acquisition of Gifted Travel Network (GTN), a host agency renowned for its dominance in the luxury travel sector.
From Corporate Hustle to Luxury Travel Success - The Journey of Celtic Hearts Travel
In this episode of The Travel Business Unpacked, Meredith Calloway sits down with Emer Coughlin and Dervila Stivers of Celtic Hearts Travel. These inspiring entrepreneurs share how they transformed their passion for travel into a thriving business, becoming top producers in the industry.
From Corporate to the World: How Deana King Built Her Dream Career with Gifted Travel Network
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to turn your passion for travel into a lucrative career? For Deana King, founder of King Travel Design, that dream is now her reality. After more than 30 years in the corporate world, Deana found herself longing for something more fulfilling, and that's where her journey with Gifted Travel Network began.