All good things – that’s what Envoyage is hearing from its members after the new name and new-look branding debuted earlier this year. Travelweek connected with Anita Emilio, Vice President and GM at Envoyage Canada, to find out more for this edition of Take 5
1..The new Envoyage name and branding debuted earlier this year. What’s been the reaction from Envoyage advisors so far?
“The reaction has been overwhelmingly positive! The new Envoyage brand is a true reflection of the calibre of advisors in our network – elevated, sophisticated, and global. We’re proud to be the only truly global brand in our space, and this has resonated deeply with our advisors.
“Many have expressed their pride in aligning with a brand that not only matches their ambition and expertise but also supports their growth on an international scale. The rebrand has not only energized our existing members but has also attracted new advisors who are eager to join a forward-thinking, dynamic network that empowers them to excel. It’s an exciting time for us as we continue to grow and evolve together.”
2. What are you seeing that underlines the strong booking volumes for Envoyage?
“At Envoyage, we’re pleased to see a strong upward trajectory in our booking volumes, reflecting the growing demand for our expansive global product and the advantages offered by our in-house air contracts. Our cruise sector continues to gain momentum, particularly as travellers seek more personalized and experiential travel options. Advisors are increasingly crafting bespoke itineraries, moving beyond traditional pre-packaged holidays to deliver deeper, more immersive experiences.
“We’ve also observed a rising interest in cruise and tour combinations, where travellers explore a variety of port cities and then delve further into their journeys on land. It’s an exciting period of growth for us as we continue to meet and exceed the evolving expectations of our clients.”
3. What’s booking particularly well right now?
“Air has always been a powerhouse for us, and that trend continues. We’re also seeing a significant uptick in tour and cruise sales, which is fantastic.
“As for trends, ‘slow travel’ is having its moment – people are embracing the idea of staying longer in one place to truly soak it all in.
“And then there’s ‘Gig Tripping,’ which has absolutely ignited our industry. In 2024, it feels like everyone knows someone who has travelled for a concert! My own daughter jetted off to Paris to see Taylor Swift (though she didn’t take her mother, sadly). Several of our Envoyage advisors and staff have done the same for various musicians, and it’s easy to see why – combining a beloved destination with a favourite artist is a trend that’s only going to keep growing.”
4. What are some tips for travel advisors thinking of making the move from employee to independent?
“Making the leap from employee to independent is thrilling but requires careful planning. To succeed, you need to be motivated, disciplined, and organized – establishing a dedicated workspace is essential, as is creating a solid financial plan to support you during the transition.
“This shift allows you to achieve a better work-life balance and grants you the freedom to focus on your clients and the type of travel you’re truly passionate about. While the journey can seem daunting, it’s one you don’t have to navigate alone. Envoyage offers comprehensive support and resources tailored to independent advisors, from cutting-edge technology to a community of like-minded professionals. We’re committed to being part of your journey, providing the tools and guidance you need to thrive as you take this exciting step forward.”
5. What are some of the highlights of Envoyage’s suite of travel advisor tools, tech or otherwise, that make Envoyage such a compelling prospect for agents?
“Envoyage stands out in the travel industry with a comprehensive suite of tools tailored for travel advisors. Our advanced technologies, including CRM, GDS access, and an online air booking tool, streamline booking processes and boost efficiency, allowing advisors to manage their business seamlessly.
“Complementing these tools, our innovative iReach Marketing platform enhances business growth while our internal communication system builds a vibrant global community. With seamless access via the O365 and HOME single sign-on system, everything advisors need is at their fingertips.
“Envoyage’s commitment to continuous innovation ensures that advisors can concentrate on crafting exceptional, personalized travel experiences for their clients. We strive to be the home and heart of the travel industry, and that commitment is reflected in everything we do.”
For more details see https://join.envoyage.com/ca/home.
