67. How Forbes Travel Guide Is Transforming The Travel Industry with Richard Lebowitz

Curious about what it takes for a hotel to earn a Forbes Travel Guide star rating? Jennifer sits down with Richard Lebowitz, the Senior Vice President of Travel Industry Outreach at Forbes Travel Guide, to discuss the rigorous evaluation process, as well as how Forbes Travel Guide is transforming the travel industry and how these changes could impact your business.   Richard has extensive experience in the hotel and travel industry, including once holding a position on the Asta Hotel Distribution Committee. He shares insights into the history and mission of Forbes Travel Guide, the process of rating hotels, and the significance of the star awards. He also discusses the Endorsed by Forbes Travel Guide program and how travel advisors can leverage the Forbes Travel Guide ratings to enhance their clients' experiences.   Connect with Richard Lebowitz: linkedin.com/in/richardlebowitz forbestravelguide.com/award-winners travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Travel-Agent-Issues/Advisors-prize-Forbes-Travel-Guide-endorsement     Today we will cover:  (04:20) Overview of Forbes Travel Guide and its history  (06:40) Differentiating Forbes Travel Guide ratings from other hotel ratings  (11:20) Highlights from the 2024 Forbes Travel Guide list; New travel trends and destinations  (14:15) Selection process for hotels to be rated by Forbes Travel Guide  (21:30) How travel advisors can utilize the list  (26:00) Forbes Travel Guide Endorsement for travel advisors  (33:20) Details about Forbes Travel Guide Endorsed Agencies  (43:10) Building relationships and making connections in the industry  (48:30) How Forbes Travel Guide lives up to its tagline   THE NICHE COMMUNITY: tiquehq.com/niche Join Niche - An interactive community membership for travel advisors wanting to grow their business!     CUSTOM CLIENT EXPERIENCE: tiquehq.com/custom-client-experience We build magnetic client experiences that help you create more super fans! _____     FOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM: instagram.com/tiquehq CHECK OUT OUR SERVICES & PROGRAMS: tiquehq.com