TORONTO — Direct Travel has announced a major upgrade to its proprietary Direct Lift technology platform, making it even more valuable for leisure travel advisors.

Originally launched in 2022, Direct Lift allowed advisors to reserve, ticket, change, cancel and invoice air bookings. The platform now includes a hotel booking component that offers 24/7 access to Direct Travel’s leading hotel agreements worldwide through a streamlined, user-friendly interface.

Along with access to the Virtuoso Hotel Program and Direct Travel’s own Global Hotel Program, the platform highlights Direct Travel’s Preferred Partner status with leading hotel groups such as Accor, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group, Rosewood Hotels & Resorts, Belmond Hotels, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts and the Dorchester Collection.

“Post pandemic, we are seeing a huge surge in the demand for FIT travel,” said Stephen Smith, Direct Travel’s SVP of Strategy & Marketing. “Having access to exclusive rates and complimentary amenities and benefits, such as airport transfers, upgrades, daily breakfast, early check-in and late check-out makes using a Direct Travel advisor invaluable.”

Smith added that the upgraded tool is ideal for advisors without GDS experience. “With a quick and intuitive search, our 900-plus leisure advisors can access the best pricing in a straightforward interface.”

He also highlighted that Direct Travel’s strength in corporate and incentive travel gives the company a competitive edge in accommodation buying power.

Deanna Rigby-Sutherland, who won the GEM Trip award for top usage of Direct Lift’s air booking platform, praised the new hotel feature. “The new hotel booking interface is simple to use and clearly defines the various rate codes and their amenities,” she said. “Ultimately, it allows me to spend more time focusing on my clients.”

For more information, visit www.dt.com/discover.