Dream Vacations Celebrates Five Years as an Experiential Travel Agency Franchise

“The equity of a powerful brand name such as Dream Vacations was never so apparent as it was this year when cruises stopped sailing as a result of COVID-19,” said Drew Daly, senior vice president and general manager of Dream Vacations. “We were able to capitalize on the name this year as our travel advisors refocused their efforts on selling land vacations, since this was the first vacation-type to return, all while inspiring their customers to dream about their next cruise vacation. Plus, we were able to quickly and seamlessly pivot our initial training to be entirely virtual so we could continue onboarding new Dream Vacations franchisees.

In fact, we are experiencing growth of new agencies because travel advisors see the value in having a brand name that speaks to more than cruise, but one that also inspires, especially in this current environment.”

Since launching Dream Vacations, land-based vacation sales have increased by double-digits each year as a result of the innovative marketing programs, training resources and technology tools created for its network of travel advisors. Engaging videos and virtual events such as the recently rebranded “Take Me Away” series; enticing consumer promotions; and social media and direct mail assets, have kept consumers connected with Dream Vacations travel advisors. Consumer websites that have a strong land presence, including a partnership with Villas of Distinction to create a dedicated luxury villas landing page, also contributed to this growth.

Other programs launched over the past five years that enhance the Dream Vacations agent experience include but are not limited to the creation of the Travel Planner app and the development of land booking technology, which consists of a collaboration with GOGO Vacations for reservation pull functionality, both of which simplify the process of booking resort vacations and sharing vacation itineraries.

“When I purchased my Dream Vacations franchise five years ago, I knew I had made the right decision. Not only was I attracted to the name Dream Vacations and what it represents, but I was looking for a good business investment with a company that would offer innovative strategies for marketing our travel products, and I wanted to build on my sales and marketing expertise with a solid brand,” said Julie Vowell, Dream Vacations franchise owner and vacation specialist in Missouri City, Texas. “Dream Vacations fit the bill, and continues to support my efforts, even through the most challenging year in the history of the travel industry.

From weekly engagement calls offering support and motivation, to new and fun additions to our marketing strategy, I am confident that with the professional assistance Dream Vacations provides, my business will thrive and grow exponentially in 2022 and beyond.”

Today, more than 85 percent of its travel agent franchise owners operate under the Dream Vacations brand and nearly 100 percent join as Dream Vacations.