Valerie Wilson Travel

ITA Access

Our training and mentoring program, empowering individuals to become luxury travel advisors.

Valerie Wilson Travel is proud to present VWT ITA Access, a 6-month training and mentoring program expertly designed for individuals who are new to the travel industry.
If you are passionate about turning your love of travel into a business, ITA Access is the perfect way to begin!

Why VWT ITA Access?

  • Leverage your entrepreneurial spirit with the globally recognized, women-led travel firm that has serviced luxury clients for more than 40 years.
  • Train with a dedicated team to actively apply the resources available through VWT’s Power of Access.
  • Engage with VWT’s management team to help you develop your business.

ITA Access Curriculum

  • Book travel and earn commission within the first 6 months.
  • 6 months of personalized training with VWT’s travel experts.
  • Self-paced program modules to build your business.
  • Exclusive access to competitive commission programs, supplier training, and webinars.
  • Participate in specialized Virtuoso training, including Virtuoso Travel Basic curriculum and Virtuoso Certified Travel Advisor (VCTA).
ITA ACCESS MEMBERS
Melissa James | Silicon Valley, California
@melissajamesic
Originally from Cape Town, South Africa, I relocated to the San Francisco Bay Area, later joining the travel industry in 2021 with VWT’s ITA Access program. Having traveled extensively, I have lived in several countries, love learning about different cultures and try to experience as many adventures as I possibly can.
When I decided to join the travel industry as a seasoned traveler, not fully understanding the behind-the-scenes picture, I decided to invest in the training and skills necessary to be able to provide the highest quality of service possible. I was used to a high level of standard after working with luxury travel advisors in the past. That meant joining the best, with an excellent reputation and an experienced team to build a strong foundation. Learning began with modules covering each aspect of the advisor’s role to understand what they are, who they appeal to and which supplier or options would be applicable for the client. What many people do not know or understand is that advisors have thousands of resources not available to the public and know who to work with. There are many layers to the advising role and the ITA Access program walks you through each phase. Being part of the ITA community at VWT has been invaluable and has helped me launch my travel business with great success!
Favorite Destinations: Seychelles, Bora Bora, France and South Africa
Favorite Places to Stay: One & Only Resorts, Oetker Collection, LVMH group and A&K
Bucket List: Iceland, Australia, BVI and the Maldives
Amy Nidds | New York City
@white.glove.getaways
My career started on Wall Street in Fixed Income sales with a break to raise my children. I then began working with a website writing about my tips, trips and more. I started traveling overseas in my 20’s and never stopped. I planned a 38 day European vacation for my family and we visited 10 countries. My three kids were 11-14 years old at the time. I spent weeks planning and researching the trip. It was an invaluable experience for all of us. As the saying goes…travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer!
I had no real experience in the travel industry. The ITA Access program gave me training and an introduction to how everything works. My training class is invaluable when it comes to recommendations and advice. Cheryl, who runs the training classes always has time to help with all our needs. I also had to take Virtuoso training for a week which helped as well.
Favorite Destinations: Safari in Botswana, Ravello, Hawaii, Iceland, and Cabo San Lucas
Favorite Places to Stay: Four Seasons Lanai, Castello di Casole-Tuscany, Ezperanzo and Ritz Zadun Cabo, Xigera-Botswana
Bucket list: Kenya, Chile, Alaska, New Zealand

“At VWT, we are committed to finding and growing new talent. In seeking out young people and career-changers who are passionate about travel, we are able to help shape and guide the next generation of Advisors. There is nothing more thrilling than to help cultivate new talent and see an entrepreneur succeed under the VWT umbrella.”

-Kimberly Wilson Wetty, Past Co-President & Owner
Join the Valerie Wilson Travel family as you train with
exceptional leaders in the travel industry, develop your own unique
brand, and learn to bring the Power of Access to your clients.
Contact Leslie Cole to learn more: [email protected]