All Reviews

172 reviews
  • 5 stars
  • 4 stars
  • 3 stars
  • 2 stars
  • 1 star

Top Review

November 30, 2022
A passion project in retirement that turned into a thriving business: Two reasons why and the how: First, a little background: After twenty years of trading risk arbitrage and equity derivatives in downtown manhattan, the time had come for chapter two, or no chapter at all; the latter option was not appealing. My dad said, "what about being a travel advisor? You love to travel, have a great client list and have been to +60 countries. We use an advisor and it makes all the difference in the world?" I love the idea, but where do you begin? With Wall Street clientele, the appeal of Virtuoso as the luxury leader in travel helped me narrow my search for a host agency on this very site. The other requirement was a real education; only GTN had both. The year-long program was vital to my success. One could launch without the education on the back of my extensive travel and business experience, but aren't your odds of success drastically higher if you are a true expert? Doesn't that take immersion and mentorship? Would I have done more damage to my budding travel reputation with the finance clients I hoped to convert to travel clients had I not? Would I get more than one chance from those clients? Fast forward to December 2021, I am in GTN's top producers club (top 30) in my first full year of business! I am invited to the Virtuoso ultraluxe community, attended Belmond's signature Bellini event for 10 USA advisors in Sicily and was on a top producer retreat with GTN. Without education, it would not have unfolded this way and certainly not this quickly. The second reason is: In real estate, the most valuable metric is location, location, location, but at a host agency, it is culture, culture, culture. The collaboration and support amongst advisors in our community is the silver bullet and goes hand in hand with the educational foundation of GTN. Imagine how much the collective mindshare benefits our clients. I was not expecting instant responses to questions or requests for advice yet opening up the browser to 7 responses in thirty minutes is common. It's another level of vetting and advocacy, but it only happens if the culture is there. We are not competing like local real estate agents who might compete for a listing in town. Our clients are worldwide, an enviable difference, and it means we are not competing so let's help each other win. We share tips, insights and experiences on our internal system in discussion groups that pale in comparison to snarky online forums. We travel together, 14 GTN advisors and I are just back from 12 days in Tanzania, and as a result, we grow together. It's made all the difference in professional growth inspired by culture and education. What more can you ask for?
October 31, 2022
Updated Review

After being in the industry for 8 years as an IC with a very small agency, I decided I needed more. My move to GTN was absolutely the "more" I was looking for.
The GTN founders and staff, truly breathe the industry, their depth of knowledge is apparent from the start. They are actively involved in all aspects of travel and the travel industry. This translates to a great amount of support for an IC. The connections a host agency has and ability to support their ICs when in need is really one of the most important things you can look for when searching for a host. GTN offers training, FAMs, vendor calls, conferences and more; all of which mean you have many opportunities to be well aware of what is the latest happenings in the industry and to better your own agency and goals. I absolutely rate this host a 5/5 and would recommend anyone thinking of moving to GTN to make the move!

Host Agency Response
November 2, 2022

Lisa, thank you for your kind words. It is truly amazing to know that someone like yourself, who has been in the industry for as long as you have, chose Gifted Travel Network as the host agency to fit your needs perfectly. We value our GTN community of advisors and ensure that our members have exceptional support and superior access through Virtuoso and our exclusive hotel elite programs.

We love having you be a part of Gifted Travel Network and love watching your success!

October 31, 2022
Previous Review

After being in the industry for 8 years as an IC with a very small agency, I decided I needed more. My move to GTN was absolutely the "more" I was looking for.
The GTN founders and staff, truly breathe the industry, their depth of knowledge is apparent from the start. They are actively involved in all aspects of travel and the travel industry. This translates to a great amount of support for an IC. The connections a host agency has and ability to support their ICs when in need is really one of the most important things you can look for when searching for a host. GTN offers training, FAMs, vendor calls, conferences and more; all of which mean you have many opportunities to be well aware of what is the latest happenings in the industry and to better your own agency and goals. I absolutely rate this host a 5/5 and would recommend anyone thinking of moving to GTN to make the move!

October 31, 2022
Previous Review

After being in the industry for 8 years as an IC with a very small agency, I decided I needed more. My move to GTN was absolutely the "more" I was looking for.
The GTN founders and staff, truly breathe the industry, their depth of knowledge is apparent from the start. They are actively involved in all aspects of travel and the travel industry. This translates to a great amount of support for an IC. The connections a host agency has and ability to support their ICs when in need is really one of the most important things you can look for when searching for a host. GTN offers training, FAMs, vendor calls, conferences and more; all of which mean you have many opportunities to be well aware of what is the latest happenings in the industry and to better your own agency and goals. I absolutely rate this host a 5/5 and would recommend anyone thinking of moving to GTN to make the move!

October 31, 2022
Previous Review

After being in the industry for 8 years as an IC with a very small agency, I decided I needed more. My move to GTN was absolutely the "more" I was looking for.
The GTN founders and staff, truly breathe the industry, their depth of knowledge is apparent from the start. They are actively involved in all aspects of travel and the travel industry. This translates to a great amount of support for an IC. The connections a host agency has and ability to support their ICs when in need is really one of the most important things you can look for when searching for a host. GTN offers training, FAMs, vendor calls, conferences and more; all of which mean you have many opportunities to be well aware of what is the latest happenings in the industry and to better your own agency and goals. I absolutely rate this host a 5/5 and would recommend anyone thinking of moving to GTN to make the move!

October 31, 2022

I cannot say enough amazing things about Gifted Travel Network. After dipping my toes in the industry for a year, I knew I needed more training, support and mentorship. Through my own research I discovered that GTN had an amazing Travel MBA program that not only focused on industry education but how to be a successful business owner. I was looking for a host made up of professionals that were serious about the luxury travel industry and dedicated to the success of their agents . I found that with GTN. In June of this year I founded my own travel agency with the support and dedicated mentorship of some of the smartest, savviest and experienced travel professionals in the industry. Not only do they have dedicated mentors for the Travel MBA program, but the continuing educational calls, partner engagement, and other opportunities are ongoing. The network is engaging and collaborative, from the newest agent, to the top execs. Although I am still new and have a lot to learn, I am 100% positive that I joined the best host out there, and am on the path to success as a luxury travel advisor and business owner.

Host Agency Response
November 2, 2022

Patricia, we are so happy with your research that you chose Gifted Travel Network! You are correct! We prioritize the success of our advisors and ensure that our members are dedicated to building their businesses. As you continue on in our Travel MBA program, it is important to remember our dedicated mentors are always there to support you, no matter what! We are so excited to see where your path to success takes you next!

October 3, 2022

Prior to being with Gifted Travel Network I was with a different host agency and I can say without a doubt that my move to Gifted Travel Network has been one of the best decisions of my career. Support, Care, Knowledge, Contacts, Relationships...GTN is the total package. My business is more successful due to the connections and "clout" that a partnership with GTN gives you. The best in the business! I truly believe that GTN has the best commission structure, the most supportive and "present" leaders, and the most amazing and positive fellow agents in the business.

Host Agency Response
October 20, 2022

We are so happy you found us Jamey and that you feel we are the 'total package'! GTN has worked hard to have the quadrant of success: Education, Community/Care, Virtuoso Relationships and our curated partners beyond that. We believe that you sit at the intersection of it all- and that's where success is found and made. Our staff - from Leadership through the entire company - are committed to supporting our advisors, it is our company belief and engrained in our culture. But you, YOU are a true testament of success and we are happy you are a part of GTN.

Thank you for sharing and we can't wait to watch your successes continue to grow!

September 30, 2022

I joined Gifted Travel Network in 2020 and it's been the best decision for my agency and career. There is so much support from leadership and peers (other owner/agents), it seems impossible not to succeed. Everyone wants to help each other improve and excel. Having access to Virtuoso (through GTN) brings my agency immediate credibility with clients. The network of relationships I've been able to create through GTN and their affiliation with Virtuoso has provided tremendous depth to the trips I offer. I can confidently send anyone anywhere in the world (having not been there) because I have trusted partners to lean on. Gifted is a gift! My agency wouldn't be where it is today without their connections, support and leadership in the industry.

Host Agency Response
October 4, 2022

Thank you so much Keely for sharing your experience with Gifted Travel Network! We often say it matters who YOU know, but it's often more important who knows YOU! Gifted Travel Network and our Virtuoso affiliation along with the carefully curated Preferred and Recommended Partner access puts you in front of the right partners to provide those amazing experiences and perks for your clients.

We love having you be a part of Gifted Travel Network and love watching your success!

September 22, 2022

I joined GTN and started in their Travel MBA program last year. That was hands down the best decision I could have made. I was brand new to the industry and didn't know much about it but that has all changed for the better now. One thing I LOVE about GTN, is not only do they teach you the ins and outs of the industry but they really focus on the business side of things. Being an entrepreneur and knowing how to run a successful business is just as important as learning the travel industry. The year long Travel MBA program really helped me excel and is great for all business travel experience levels. The GTN community is so supportive and helpful. We are truly like one big family just trying to help one another out in anyway possible. I could go on and on about GTN but this has been 100% the best decision I made for my business. I have exceeded all my goals and have grown so much just in my first year with them!!

Host Agency Response
September 26, 2022

We are so happy to hear that this has been the best decision you could have made! The Travel MBA program was designed for that exact reason - to help those new to the industry crush the odds by learning how to be successful entrepreneurs in their business of travel - along with teaching the ins and outs of booking travel! It can be overwhelming, but the Travel MBA gives you the support and roadmap for you to build and navigate your business with incredible success.

Couple that with mentorship and a community like no other, and incredible partners - this all gives you that leg up to hit your goals and create lifelong bonds with all! We are thrilled you decided to join GTN and are part of our amazing collaborative community. We can't wait to celebrate you and your next win!

August 1, 2022

If there's the perfect community to belong to, it's Gifted Travel Network! It's especially needed now, at this early stage when I don't always feel like I'm doing the right things or when I'm doing completely the opposite of everyone else. They provide educational, entrepreneurial, and emotional support as I continue to grow my brand and business.

Host Agency Response
August 1, 2022

We are so glad you have found the host agency that fills all the boxes for you. We love what we do; helping advisors build their business, their brand, and attract the clients that make their business highly successful and profitable. We love having YOU at Gifted Travel Network!

July 22, 2022

I absolutely LOVE being a member of Gifted Travel Network. They have an incredible training program with their Travel University "Accelerate Program" and so much more. Everyone that works with GTN cares so much for each other, the Independent Travel Advisors, our Vendor Partners and the entire Travel Community! We are all very caring and supportive of each other. I have learned so much from all of the Training programs that I've been a part of and our entire community of brilliant minds. I would highly recommend this host agency if you're looking for a caring, supportive community. Throughout the horrid COVID experience, we couldn't have asked for greater support from both GTN and the GTN community at large. Top notch, BEST Host Agency in the industry in my view!

Host Agency Response
July 24, 2022

Thank you Patti for your kind words- we think you are pretty spectacular too! We love training 'new to the industry' advisors in their entrepreneurial journey but the education doesn't end there. For those experienced advisors we have the Accelerate program to help fine tune, direct, and do a deeper dive into marketing, branding, client acquisition! Add that to the community that you mention-it truly makes a difference for those advisors involved at GTN! We are so thrilled to have you share your experience, THANK YOU!

June 14, 2022

I joined GTN in March of 2022 and attended the 3-day Travel MBA Jumpstart program. I decided to make the investment in business and I am so happy that I did. The 3-day program was full of amazing content and the GTN team was incredible. All 3 days of the jumpstart was full of knowledge and I left knowing that I had made the right decision. The support from GTN during the 3 days was amazing and to know that it doesn't end there was the icing on the cake. Coming from a different host agency, I was fascinated how much I learned from the team at GTN in just 3 days. If you are interested in becoming a true luxury travel advisor, Gifted Travel Network it the way to go.

Host Agency Response
June 15, 2022

We are so thrilled to find you as excited and confidant in your decision to join the Gifted Travel Network's Travel MBA program. You are on such an incredible journey and we are happy to be a part of your success trajectory. You are well on your way to a successful business and we can't wait to continue to celebrate you and those clients that are yours, your niche, and so pleased with their experiences with YOU!

June 14, 2022

I have been with Gifted Travel Network for 1 year and participated in the Travel MBA program. I can't say enough good things about the company. GTN wants its agents to be successful and provides the support and tools for that to happen. And I would definitely recommend the Travel MBA program for people who are either new to the business or want to grow and expand their business. I am so happy that I found GTN.

Host Agency Response
June 15, 2022

YAY Erin! We are so excited for you, your graduation, and the success partnership you have created with Gifted Travel Network. It truly is a teamwork situation and we are excited to watch your continued successes! Thank you for your kind words about Gifted Travel Network and your experiences with the Travel MBA program.

May 21, 2022
Updated Review
Verified Review

I've been with Gifted Travel Network since 2015, when I first entered the travel industry as a student in their Travel MBA Program. GTN has provided an incredibly supportive and enriching framework in which to learn about being an entrepreneur in the travel industry. GTN's Virtuoso affiliation coupled with a deep network of preferred partners provides independent contractors like me with a great range of options to offer my clients. Recently GTN's organizational structure has changed in that GTN is now solely focused on the Host Agency, its members and its partners. The team at HQ has expanded 5-fold during my time and the support and opportunities given to members are both outstanding. There is a wealth of information available to members (and it's archived so it's available on demand.). The community is amazing and there's a genuine spirit of collaboration rather among community members which is so appreciated.
I am very fortunate to be a member of GTN!

Host Agency Response
May 23, 2022

Thanks for your kind words about Gifted Travel Network, Joan. We have loved watching your growth through Travel MBA and beyond, you inspire us and so many others. GTN is growing staff-wise to be able to provide the best service to our incredible GTN advisors and we love having you a part of that community!

May 21, 2020
Previous Review

I am coming up on my 5-year anniversary in this industry, and I am so thankful that a seasoned agent recommended Gifted Travel Network (GTN) when I asked her about how to do what she did. Coming from a healthcare finance background, with a "real" MBA, I enrolled in GTN's Travel MBA program - which not only taught me the nuts and bolts of the industry, but more importantly, taught me about entrepreneurship. I am so proud to be an associate of GTN. They aim to be an industry "disruptor" - with a unique approach to supplier relationships and even more importantly, to supporting their independent contractors. They have successfully created a community of independent contractors who support each other in a completely non-competitive way. Suppliers consistently compliment GTN on both the engagement and professionalism of GTN advisors. With the Virtuoso affiliation in 2019, several seasoned high-producing advisors have joined and their enthusiasm for the community have both made me proud and confirmed that starting with and staying with GTN has been a sound decision. GTN offers advisors commission rates ranging from 70% to 100%. The educational opportunities and support are overwhelming. Each of the principals of GTN are stars in their own right, and they complement each other beautifully. During my association with GTN, they have built a strong supporting team and as a whole are incredibly responsive to advisor needs. I highly recommend GTN as a host and am happy to speak with anyone considering this affiliation.

Sign up for a free account to submit reviews.