Airlines Reporting Corporation (ARC) reports that Avanti Destinations is now a Helix preferred supplier, while Aon Affinity Berkely Travel is the newest Helix business services partner.
Avanti Destinations will offer Helix members the ability to sell to their clients unique travel experiences throughout Europe, Latin America, and Mexico. Founded in 1981 and based in Portland, Ore., the company offers travel agents a wide range of modular FIT packages and stand-alone products for resale including air, rail, cars, hotels, sightseeing, transfers, and experiential travel options.
“We are delighted to join ARC’s Helix program to provide their members with our unique offerings,” said Harry Dalgaard, president of Avanti Destinations. “We know agents will satisfy their most discriminating clients with our private and specialty travel products, which we personally select based on our own experiences. The Avanti Destinations team looks forward to growing close business relationships with Helix members.”
Since 1977, Berkely has provided Professional Liability (Errors & Omissions) Insurance designed specifically for travel agents and tour operators. Helix members can access Berkely’s E&O program, which covers events that occur worldwide and is backed by an A.M. Best A-rated carrier.
“Doing business in today’s litigious environment, regardless of a company’s size, can be concerning,” said Paula Cartagena, manager of marketing and consortia programs at Berkely. “Joining Helix will allow Berkely to focus on the growing home-based agent community and offer them a unique coverage plan that is cost-effective, comprehensive, and provides peace of mind. We look forward to being of service to Helix members.”
Helix is a members-only program for home-based and retail travel agencies. It offers a preferred supplier portfolio covering all segments of travel, multiple business services, and the professional education and training opportunities to assist agencies in operating more efficiently and becoming more profitable. Helix currently features more than 30 preferred suppliers in its portfolio.
“We welcome Avanti Destinations to our portfolio of outstanding preferred suppliers,” said Christopher Flores, Helix program director. “Our members will be delighted with the range of FIT options offered in Latin America and Europe. Moreover, I’m certain our members will enjoy introducing Avanti’s unique products to their clients and providing them with a quality travel experience through this great partner."
“As a business services provider, Berkely brings our members a reputable company offering affordable liability insurance. Their inclusion within the Helix family demonstrates our desire to provide members with the best possible options in the market.”
ARC announced last month that the Helix program surpassed the 200-member mark. The program will also host the second Helix Regional Symposium in Chicago on September 23 at the Westin Lombard Yorktown Center, with one-on-one supplier meetings, featured speakers, and educational sessions.
Visit www.joinhelix.com