Direct Travel launches Altitude luxury host network

Direct Travel has launched Altitude by Direct Travel, a luxury hosted advisor network within its Leisure Travel organization, aimed at supporting independent advisors who specialize in premium and luxury travel.

Altitude formalizes what Direct Travel described as one of its fastest-growing segments. 

The company’s hosted advisor network, previously operating within its leisure business, will now run under the Altitude brand to better signal the scale of its leisure offering to advisors and industry partners.

“Altitude represents more than a new brand, it formalizes our commitment to the luxury advisor community,” said Gerard Bellino, president of Leisure Travel at Direct Travel. 

“We’ve long been known for operational excellence, supplier strength, and high-touch support. Altitude gives that foundation a distinct identity designed specifically for today’s premium travel entrepreneur.”

Altitude advisors will have access to luxury hotel programs, cruise benefits and a top-tier membership in Virtuoso®. 

The company said cruise is one of its strongest verticals, alongside partnerships across air contracts, luxury hotel programs and bespoke travel services.

Technology is also a core part of the launch, according to Stephen Smith, executive vice president of Leisure Travel at Direct Travel.

“Independent advisors are entrepreneurs. Our investment in technology ensures they can streamline client management, access booking tools seamlessly, and leverage data-driven insights to grow their business. We’re building out a platform where advisors can focus on what matters most—the client experience,” Smith said.

The announcement follows the appointment of a dedicated management team focused on independent travel advisors. 

Joelle Goldman, vice president of host services and luxury hotel program at Direct Travel, said the team is intended to deliver tailored support and programming.

“Our advisors are the heart of Altitude. With a specialized management team in place, we are committed to delivering tailored support, curated marketing programs, and meaningful community connections that help advisors thrive in today’s competitive landscape,” Goldman said.

Direct Travel said Altitude includes nearly 700 independent travel advisors across North America.

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