Travel Leaders Network (TLN), one of the largest networks of travel agencies in North America, celebrated a return to in-person travel – and the “resilience of the travel advisor – last week with a gathering of close to 1,400 attendees at its annual international EDGE (Educate, Discover, Gather, Evolve) conference in Orlando.

Last held live in 2019, the event was held at the Loews Royal Pacific Resort at Universal Orlando.

“It feels surreal but wonderful to gather again,” said Roger Block, President of Travel Leaders Network. “EDGE is a treasured tradition to Travel Leaders Network and our members, and the energy is like no other.”

Travel advisors took part in daily general sessions with company and supplier updates from the mainstage plus over 100 workshops. New this year was the concept of a tiered learning system, with TLN members placed in a training track that allowed them to get the education tailored to their experience, whether a new travel advisor or the owner of a large, established agency.

EDGE’s host, Universal Orlando Resort, also hosted attendees at a private party at Universal’s Islands of Adventure theme park on opening night.

With more than 30 years of experience in the hospitality industry including serving as sales director for Disney Institute based at Walt Disney World Resort, Simon T. Bailey served as keynote speaker.

“As we celebrate the recovery of travel at EDGE, we also celebrate the resilience of the travel advisor, and the way they have fought through the incredible challenges our industry has faced,” said Block, who called EDGE “a joyful reunion.”

“The pandemic has taught us the incredible importance of travel and human connections,” he added. “Being together with our fabulous partners, including our host, Universal Orlando, and each other, is something that has been sorely missed.”

Canadian winners

At the conference, a number of affiliate member awards were presented, as chosen by the consortia’s executives as examples of agencies embodying the attributes of their award.

“The global pandemic continues to affect travel advisors,” said Block. “This year’s affiliate member awards are given to those who are not only all-around excellent travel advisors, but also business owners who have persevered and thrived in various ways.”

Canadian winners included:

• LaSalle Travel Services, Inc., based in LaSalle, Ont., was named the Champion of Supplier Partners. Owned by Jacqueline Mizon, this agency “has gone above and beyond when it comes to supporting TLN’s preferred suppliers… (and) has not only actively promoted these suppliers but has been a tireless champion in encouraging other travel advisors to do so as well.”

• Victoria, BC’s KVI Travel and owner Kyle Oram was given the Member Engagement Star Award recognizing an agency that has been a prolific user of TL Network’s vast sources of support, such as programs, tools, and educational offerings. The Member Engagement Star Award winner leveraged these programs to successfully manage their business.

• The Peer-to-Peer Service Award winner, Cruise Holidays of Oakville, Ont., owned by Lola Vassiliadis, were recognized for generously sharing time and knowledge with fellow TLN members, management, and the travel industry.

• Also known as the “MacGyver Award,” the Resourceful Response to 2020 Challenges winner adapted to the numerous challenges COVID-19 brought to the travel industry, working hard to diversify their revenue sources, maintaining excellent customer service and figuring out innovative ways to reduce their business risk. The award was given to Dennis Laliberte of Newwest Travel in Edmonton, AB.

• The 2021 President’s Award winner embodies each of the award attributes, in addition to showing sales success and being a top member of TL Network. Carlton Montaut of Centre Holidays Inc. in Mississauga, Ont. was this year’s honoree.

“I am deeply proud of all the Affiliate Award winners,” said Christine James, VP TL Network Canada. “This year more than ever, these agencies have fought through challenges that would have been unimaginable a few years ago. Our recipients have much to be proud of, and I know that they are on the road to continued success.”