TORONTO — A lucky group of 25 travel advisors from across North America took part in Direct Travel’s recent top-producers’ trip.

The nine-day European getaway included a stay at Munich’s The Charles, a Rocco Forte Hotel, a day trip to Nuremberg, complements of A&K, and an AmaWaterways river cruise from Nuremberg to Amsterdam onboard the AmaCerto.

The trip was part of Direct Travel’s GEM Recognition program, which celebrates the achievements of top-performing advisors who not only drive sales but also delivers unmatched service and supports Direct’s strategic partners.

In all, 42 guests took part in the trip including 24 winners, four Direct Travel executives, the Direct Travel leisure leadership team and nine supplier partners. Travel advisors earned their spot on the GEM trip by supporting partners in seven categories recognizing North American and regional winners.

“This was our sixth GEM trip and a wonderful opportunity to network with some of our most productive and enthusiastic agents,” said Gerard Bellino, EVP Leisure at Direct Travel. “Not only did the advisors experience some of our wonderful luxury travel product, but also spent time networking with some of our senior management and suppliers.”

Taking part in the trip was Vernon, B.C.-based Shanon Roberts, a Leisure Brand Supervisor, who said the trip was amazing, “probably one of the best trips I have been on in 20 years in the travel industry!” She added: “The Direct Travel team is fantastic and I am lucky to be part of this organization.”