picklestravelnetwork.com
972-951-8000
Email Host Agency
4261 E. University Dr. #30-505 Prosper, TX 75078 Quite honestly, if I could give Pickles Travel Network more than a 5 star review I would! I am still a relatively new agent, however I started my journey as a TA with a host agency that was not supportive at all and did not care that I had no idea what I was doing. As a Type A, perfectionist - that was so difficult for me. But it led me to really researching and looking into who my second host agency would be - because I wanted that to be my final host agency.
I interviewed a few different hosts, and though they were all lovely, I was almost immediately in awe of PTN. Right away you can tell their dedication to their ICs and how much they care about your success.
Once you start with PTN you immediately feel like family! Their entire staff is so incredible and they just CARE so much. On top of that, all of their staff are TAs themselves, so when you are going to them for help/guidance they actually know what they’re talking about. When they give you their opinion/guidance/advice they are doing so from firsthand knowledge, and not knowledge from years ago - but from weeks or months ago!
Their agent portal is SO user friendly and it’s like they thought of EVERYTHING when they were building it out. Inside of the portal you are able to find so much information and resources. Something that I think is really cool about PTN and helps them stand out is that every single week (except for holidays of course) they have multiple live training sessions available for you to attend. These are a mix between training with the PTN staff to ask questions (they have an awesome New Agent Training they do regularly), training that focuses on a specific niche or area/destination, AND regular training with the suppliers that they partner with. What I also love is that if you’re unable to attend these training sessions for whatever reason you don’t have to worry. They have an impeccable upload schedule each week so if you miss a training you were hoping to attend, you’ll know exactly when it will be available to you.
And the big question - commission split. PTN provides you with the option to choose which commission split you want, and the lowest option available is 70%. I was floored when I recently learned that there are hosts who require you to start at 50%. I like that they give you the option to choose your split because it allows you to feel empowered, knowing the split you are receiving is a choice you made.
Whether you're looking for a host for the first time or you're looking to find a new host who will actually support you, I really believe that PTN is the perfect choice.
I joined Pickles as a New Agent and was with them a little over 2 years. I was able to grow my business significantly in sales and with team members. They have grown and changed a lot over that time, but the team is very nice. Appreciative that I was able to transfer my bookings when I decided to go independent.
Pickles was very little help in general. The first year there was not training available from Pickles except all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean. After they added some for other areas but it was very sparse. High fees and exceptionally targeted towards new agents that were from Careers on Vacation. COV steered many agents there as well. Very little support to fees just to have an account with Virtuoso because they accept all new agents. No phone line for support. I moved and have been amazed at the difference. Two stars only because some of the staff were really great. Owners and some of the senior staff acted like you were from Mars with some basic questions and situations. I am so glad I found another host agency that is very supportive, trains, and is in good standing with Virtuoso. There were so many changes within a year that were so hard as they recommended one platform and then said it was bad and instituted another within 1 1/2 years. It was a crazy ride. I am glad I am done with it now.
Thank you for taking the time to share your thoughts. While we’re sorry to hear that your experience didn’t meet your expectations, we’d like to clarify a few points for others who might read this review.
Over the past few years, we’ve worked hard to enhance our training offerings, refine our support systems, and better align with the diverse needs of our travel advisors. While change can be challenging, we make updates with the long-term benefit of our members in mind.
PTN offers extensive training that goes far beyond just all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean. We have consistently provided several training sessions per week tailored to both new and experienced advisors, covering a diverse range of topics and destinations. Additionally, our fees are among the most competitive for Virtuoso agencies and include valuable tools like Travefy and Sion, which many advisors find essential to their success.
Regarding support, we do have a phone line, and advisors can schedule calls to ensure we connect at a time that works best for their schedule. This approach allows us to provide personalized and timely assistance.
That said, this review doesn’t align with the feedback we received from you while you were an active member. While we’re always looking for ways to improve, we’re proud of the comprehensive resources, training, and support we offer our advisors. We remain committed to their success and wish you all the best in your future endeavors.
I wanted to take a moment to express my appreciation for the outstanding support and training that Pickles has consistently provided to their agents. From the very beginning, Pickles has been incredibly attentive to the needs of their agents, always taking the time to listen and respond to any concerns or feedback we have. It’s clear that they value their agents and understand the importance of providing the right tools and resources for success.
The training programs offered by Pickles are comprehensive and tailored to ensure agents are well-prepared to handle any situation. They go beyond just basic knowledge and offer real-world applications, making it easier to grasp concepts and apply them in our day-to-day roles. Whether it’s onboarding or advanced training, Pickles has been committed to ensuring we’re equipped with the skills necessary to thrive.
What I’ve also found invaluable is the open-door policy when it comes to asking questions. At Pickles, there’s always a sense of support, and no question is too big or small. Whenever I’ve had a query, the team has always been quick to provide clear, helpful answers. This level of support has created a positive and encouraging environment, where I feel confident reaching out and continuing to grow as an agent.
In addition to the excellent training, the consistent follow-up and ongoing support from Pickles have made a significant difference in my experience. It’s rare to find a company that is so proactive in ensuring its agents have everything they need to succeed and feel supported throughout their journey. I truly appreciate how Pickles has prioritized agent development and consistently shown a commitment to their well-being and success.
Overall, I couldn’t be more satisfied with the support, training, and open communication that Pickles offers. I feel well-equipped, valued, and confident in my role, and I look forward to continuing to grow with the company.
Thank you, Anthony, for your excellent review! We are honored to be able to support you and your business.
I am a new advisor in 2024 and after much research, I selected PTN as my host agency. My experience with PTN has been fantastic. They are very supportive, have an extensive network of suppliers, and are affiliated with Virtuoso. The team at PTN is always looking for the best resources to enable our success. I am very happy!
Thank you, Jennifer, it has been a pleasure! We are so happy to have you as a PTN member!
I decided to start my travel agency business with Pickles Travel Network due to several factors! One of the main things I liked was the personal touch added to enrolling. The discovery call with them is what really sealed the deal for me! Ever since then they have been there to support and answer questions.
Thank you, Curtis, for the awesome review! We are so happy you chose PTN as your host!!
I am so glad that I made the choice of starting my career off right with Pickles Travel Network! Everything from support, to commissions and everything in between has been wonderful. I still consider myself a fairly new agent that makes mistakes and not once have I not gotten support from someone on the PTN team.
The guidance that is given by everyone is so comforting. They give me the confidence to move passed the not so fun things, letting me know that everything will be ok. And giving out the Kudos when they are deserved.
PTN is always looking towards the future and providing information and trainings on a daily basis that keeps everyone “in the know”.
If you are looking for a host company I would choose Pickles Travel Network over anyone else!
Thank you, Keri, for your excellent review! We are honored to be able to support our amazing agents!
If you're looking for a host agency that feels like family, look no further than Pickles Travel Network. The support here is outstanding, with several knowledgeable coaches actively involved in the Facebook community, providing quick and helpful responses. The training programs are fantastic, covering everything from supplier trainings to coaching sessions on marketing, Disney planning, Cruises, and FITs, best practices, etc
What sets Pickles Travel Network apart is the genuine care and accessibility of everyone, from the owner, Stephanie Pickles to all the coaches, and the back office support. They are face-to-face with you every step of the way, ensuring you have the tools and support needed to succeed. This network truly makes you feel valued and supported, making it an invaluable resource for any travel advisor.
Thank you, Kim, for your excellent review! We are honored to be able to support our amazing agents!
Exceptional Host Company!
I’ve had an incredible experience with Pickles Travel Network. Their training and collaborative environment are truly outstanding. The team, led by Allison, Brittany, and Tabitha, consists of some of the most genuine and thoughtful agents and leaders in the industry. Stephanie and Baz, the owners, are equally fantastic. I’ve always felt welcomed, cared for, and appreciated. Pickles has been an amazing host company! 🌟
Thank you, Jessica, it has been a pleasure! We are so happy to have you as a PTN member!
I have been so happy with Pickles as my host agency as a new agent. They offer so many resources to training and to support the agent's business needs. There are so many tools included that agents at other agencies have to pay out of pocket for and the fees are very low. I highly recommend Pickles!
Thank you, Anne, for your excellent review! We are honored to be able to support our amazing agents!
Pickles Travel Network makes calm in the Chaos of being a Travel Advisor. They partner with many extremely helpful programs allowing the TA to choose what will work best for their own business. They offer helpful and insightful monthly training as well as Vendor/supplier opportunities. They are the key to successfully starting your own TA business. I could not have done it without them.
Thank you, Kathleen, it has been a pleasure! We are so happy to have you as a PTN member!