Testimonials
After belonging to another consortium, we joined NEST in early 2005. As a home-based host agency, our decision to join NEST was truly the right one! The benefits of belonging to an organization that is focused on the home-based business model far outweighs the benefits of belonging to one that tries to be all things to all agencies, whether they are store-front or home-based.
These are just a few of the reasons we are happy to be a NEST member
1. NEST preferred vendors match up very well with our preferred vendors.
2. Ease of communications with NEST staff.
3. Working with people that understand the opportunities and challenges of being home-based.
4. Training opportunities, both online and seminar-based.
5. Member-based website.
6. Flexibility to pick and choose the marketing plans you want to participate in.
-- Bob Lyons, Owner, VacationTime Travel
Having come from a very large consortium, I really enjoy being a member of NEST because of its ideal size. It’s large enough to have the benefits of things like free direct mail, rewards, support of the cruise lines and tour companies, yet small enough to know the staff and get assistance when needed. Plus, the networking opportunities like the annual NEST FEST conference and Seminars at Sea are intimate enough to network with fellow members and supplier executives. I believe sharing business experiences with other home-based agents and owners (which I have always been) is extremely beneficial.
-- Fran Card, Owner, Card’s Cruise Connection
I have been a travel consultant for 33 years (21 years in an office) and six years ago I decided to go home based and open my own agency…it was the best thing I ever did. Joining NEST was the next best thing. It has helped me to compete with the big companies. I not only get amazing help seven days a week, but great amenities as well. Would you believe NEST is now a part of my family, or I am part of theirs? I call whenever I need to know anything. Andy and Rosemary are always there to help.
From the first convention in Las Vegas to sailing on the Celebrity Seminar at Sea, we have all become great friends and I look forward to seeing my fellow NEST members again soon. The NEST just keeps growing and getting better.
-- Phyllis Brody, CTC, Owner, Now Travel
Cruise Travel Services has been a home-based agency since we started 18 years ago. At that time home-based agents/agencies were looked down on as those annoying little people who didn't and wouldn't really count. My, oh my, how things have changed! Over the years we have been members of several consortiums, some very large and a few very small. We have always felt there was a need for an organization that catered to the needs of the home-based agent/agencies. Thanks to the forethought of a few individuals in the industry, NEST was created. This has turned out to be one of the best business decisions we’ve ever made.
NEST offers us benefits similar to the larger consortiums without our having the feeling of being "just another number" in a computer. NEST has an excellent assortment of preferred suppliers and their blocked group space offering extra amenities is some of the best we have seen. This gives us a definite advantage. In this ever-changing industry, education should be at the top of everyone's list. NEST's webinars give us the chance to enhance our knowledge and speak with supplier representatives without ever having to leave our desks. All in all, we are very satisfied with our membership in NEST, and we will continue to encourage other travel professionals to look into NEST membership.
-- Jerry & Myra Funkhouser, MCC's, Cruise Travel Services, Inc.
As an Owner of a home-based/host agency, I came to NEST for a variety of reasons and NEST truly turned out to be a great fit. The support system and membership structure is excellent! If I have a question or concern, it is addressed immediately. If I need assistance, they are there to offer suggestions and help guide me.
The NEST website houses a variety of information at a click. Miss a virtual meeting, get the notes on line. You’re never out of the loop. On Cruise Nest, I love the layout of the site, and seeing the deck plans while booking is a huge help. My favorite feature is having the ability to see what the difference is on all cabins, this feature can help you up sell your clients.
In addition, with a huge inventory of selected sailings to sell into, with the perks already listed, it’s a win-win for any agent and if that isn’t enough, you also have opportunities through NEST Rewards to earn additional commissions.
Lastly, every year NEST has an annual conference for its members. It’s a great way to meet not only the NEST staff and other NEST members, but have a one-one opportunity with your vendors and network.
NEST has truly helped me soar. If you are looking for an organization that gives support, not lip service, NEST is it. You want a great value in your membership NEST is it. Joining NEST will give you wings!
-- Michelle Duncan, MCC, CEO/President, Odyssey Travel Inc.