Latest news with #Envoyage
Travel Weekly
24-07-2025
- Business
- Travel Weekly
Envoyage names Shauna Stedner global supply business partner
Envoyage, Flight Centre Travel Group's network for agencies and travel advisors, has named Shauna Stedner its global supply business partner. Stedner's role is a new one for the company. She will oversee the Envoyage Product Marketplace. Working with Envoyage's supply technology product managers, Stedner will also assess distribution capabilities and platforms that Envoyage uses to identify and fill any gaps. She joins Envoyage after more than 20 years with Flight Centre in several areas, including supply, procurement and vendor relationship management. She was most recently travel technology product manager. "Her expertise will be invaluable as we look to expand the breadth and depth of our Product Marketplace offerings across all travel verticals to provide our member advisors with the latest tools they need to drive their businesses forward," Christina Pedroni, Envoyage's executive vice president and general manager in the U.S., said in a release.
IOL News
27-06-2025
- IOL News
Don't let these 6 DIY travel planning blunders ruin your getaway
While the ease of booking flights and accommodations online is empowering, it can quickly turn into a frustrating experience. Yet, with the rise of DIY travel planning , many travellers are hitting bumps on the road to their dream getaway. Planning a trip should be exciting, not stressful. The vast array of options available at our fingertips can be overwhelming, leading to confusion and uncertainty about the best choices. In today's digital age, where information is abundant but often contradictory, it's easy to make mistakes that can derail your travel plans. From navigating complex booking platforms to understanding the intricacies of travel regulations, the journey from inspiration to reality can be fraught with challenges. However, with the right knowledge and preparation, you can sidestep these common pitfalls and ensure a smoother travel experience. Here are some common mistakes to avoid, along with practical tips from Envoyage's seasoned travel advisors that can save you time, money and headaches. Mistake #1: Booking through third-party sites It can be tempting to hunt for deals on search engines. But beware! Often, you'll be redirected to unfamiliar booking platforms. This can lead to a muddle of reference numbers and confusion about whom to contact if issues arise. If your flight is delayed or you miss a connection, getting assistance can become a nightmare, especially if you're stuck on hold with an overseas call centre. Booking directly with airlines or using a trusted travel advisor provides clearer communication and reliable support when you need it most. Mistake #2: Forgetting about location Price and star ratings are important, but don't overlook the significance of location. A cheap hotel on the outskirts can incur higher transport costs and wasted time getting to the attractions. Instead, a slightly pricier hotel closer to your desired spots may ultimately be the smarter choice. Always align the hotel's location with your travel plan for a smoother experience. Mistake #3: Waiting for last-minute flight deals Many travellers delay booking flights, thinking they'll nab a better deal later. This rarely works out. Airfares typically rise as the departure date looms, especially for popular routes. If you find a fare that fits your budget, grab it. Commit early for peace of mind and potentially better savings. Mistake #4: Ignoring passport validity and entry requirements Don't let your passport be the reason your travel plans go awry. Many countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your return date. Skipping this important detail can result in denied boarding. Plus, visa-free access often comes with its caveats. Always confirm your destination's entry requirements well in advance to keep surprises at bay. Mistake #5: Relying too much on social media influencers Instagram and TikTok are chock-full of travel inspiration, but remember to tread carefully. Influencers often showcase places at their most photogenic, but they may leave out essential details like crowd levels and transport costs. Use these platforms as a springboard for ideas, but do your research or consult an expert for the full picture. Mistake #6: Winging it Improvisation can feel adventurous, but it can lead to added stress. For example, don't assume your airline will take care of special meal requests or that hotels will know about your dietary restrictions without you informing them. Instead, pre-book important services like seating, transfers, and local tours. A little planning goes a long way in making your trip relaxing. Next time you're ready to hit the "book now" button, remember these tips. With a bit of preparation, you can ensure a smoother, safer, and far more enjoyable travel experience.
Travel Weekly
21-05-2025
- Business
- Travel Weekly
Flight Centre rebrands Liberty Travel as Envoyage to unify U.S. leisure operations
Flight Centre Travel Group is rebranding Liberty Travel as Envoyage, consolidating its U.S. leisure operations under a single global brand. Liberty Travel will now be integrated into Envoyage, a brand that Flight Centre launched last year to unify roughly 1,400 independent contractors from Independent by Liberty Travel, Independent by Flight Centre, Travel Managers, Travel Associates at Home, Flight Centre Independent and Travel Partners. According to Flight Centre, the Envoyage network has since grown to 2,500 members across the U.S., Canada, Australia, New Zealand and South Africa. In the U.S., Envoyage said it has nearly doubled membership numbers and sales volume since its February 2024 debut. At the time of the network's launch, Envoyage executive vice president and general manager Christina Pedroni said the Envoyage model is designed for experienced advisors selling more than $250,000 a year. Both its IC and agency tiers carry monthly fees, with commission splits ranging from 70% to 90% for ICs and accredited agencies receiving 100% commission. "Through extensive market research conducted in the U.S. and across our global markets, the message from consumers and the industry alike is clear: Envoyage is a desirable, aspirational brand," said Danielle Galloway, global managing director of luxury and independent brands at Flight Centre Travel Group. With the rebranding, Flight Centre said it plans to leverage Liberty Travel's extensive customer database and digital assets to extend Envoyage's reach beyond Liberty Travel's traditional Northeastern U.S. stronghold. Flight Centre added that Envoyage advisors will benefit from an integrated consumer marketing campaign and lead-generation service. Liberty Travel closed most of its storefronts during the pandemic. Today, most Liberty Travel advisors work remotely. According to Liberty's website, some advisors work in Flight Centre's U.S. corporate headquarters in Montvale, N.J. The Liberty Travel rebranding comes amid Flight Centre's decision to ramp up its focus on luxury travel and independent contractors, which the company has identified as high-growth sectors. Early last year, Flight Centre shuttered its Gogo Vacations wholesaler business, which it acquired alongside Liberty Travel in 2007. The closure came as Flight Centre said the wholesale model had been "struggling in recent years" with "high costs of maintaining this brand" becoming increasingly difficult to justify, said Charlene Leiss, Flight Centre president of the Americas. The company has also expanded the U.S. leadership team for high-end tour operator Scott Dunn, which it acquired in 2023. Scott Dunn opened its first New York City office last year.
