DENVER — Direct Travel has launched Altitude by Direct Travel, a luxury hosted advisor network within its Leisure Travel organization, formalizing what it describes as one of its fastest-growing business segments.

The new Altitude brand is designed to support independent advisors specializing in premium and luxury travel, bringing greater visibility to Direct Travel’s established hosted advisor network in North America.

Within its Leisure Travel division, the company has long operated a substantial hosted advisor network. With the introduction of Altitude by Direct Travel, the organization is aiming to ensure both advisors and supplier partners clearly recognize the scale and strength of its leisure-focused operations.

“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.”

Backed by Direct Travel’s broader infrastructure and buying power, Altitude advisors gain access to elite programs with leading luxury hotel brands, exclusive cruise benefits and top-tier membership in Virtuoso, widely recognized as one of the world’s premier luxury travel networks.

Cruise remains a cornerstone of the division’s portfolio, supported by partnerships spanning air contracts, luxury hotel programs and bespoke travel services. 

Technology investment is also central to the new brand, said 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.”

The launch follows the recent appointment of a dedicated management team focused exclusively on supporting independent travel advisors. Said Joelle Goldman, Vice President of Host Services and Luxury Hotel Program at Direct Travel, noted: “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.”

For more information about Altitude by Direct Travel, go to www.altitudetrvl.com.