Avoya Travel is entering an exciting new era. As of June 2025, Certares Inc. has assumed full ownership of the company, marking a significant milestone in Avoya’s storied legacy of innovation, family entrepreneurship, and commitment to excellence in leisure travel.
Leadership Transition
This change in ownership signifies a heartfelt farewell to the Anderson family, the visionaries who began building what would become Avoya Travel over 60 years ago. The Andersons launched their first brick-and-mortar travel agencies in San Diego during the 1970s, under names like Palomar Travel Inc., Pal Anderson Travel, and Anderson Travel. Their family-run business eventually expanded to 10 locations at its peak.
While Jeff and Michael Anderson will continue to support the business through mid-June to ensure a smooth transition, they will be stepping away from day-to-day operations. Their departure marks the end of an era, but also the beginning of a new phase fueled by strategic investment and forward-thinking leadership.
"We're grateful to Jeff Anderson and Michael Anderson, who helped build Avoya into an innovative leader in leisure travel,"" shared Phil Cappelli, Chief Sales Officer at Avoya Travel.
Certares: A Strategic Partner for Growth
Certares, which initially invested in Avoya Travel in 2021, has expressed strong confidence in Avoya’s unique model. "This change reflects a strong vote of confidence in Avoya’s business model, platform, and future growth trajectory,” Certares said in a statement.
As a private investment firm with holdings in Internova Travel Group, LATAM Airlines, and various hospitality and hotel brands, Certares brings robust resources and a deep understanding of the travel industry to the table.
The remainder of Avoya’s executive leadership team – including Cappelli and CFO Mark Francone – will remain in place, ensuring continuity and supporting the next phase of expansion and innovation.
Honoring a Legacy of Innovation
From the early days of storefront agencies, the Andersons pioneered a shift to digital operations by leveraging the internet to connect travelers with specialized vacation planners. Avoya Travel’s evolution included introducing the Independent Vacation Planner model in the early 2000s, redefining the travel landscape and establishing a “category of one.” This innovation earned Co-Presidents Brad and Van Anderson a place in the CLIA Hall of Fame with the Cruise Innovator Award.
With a business model grounded in personal relationships and a reputation for integrity and professionalism, Avoya has become one of the most trusted names in travel. The company has received numerous accolades, including repeated recognition as Travel Partner of the Year from Norwegian Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, and more.
Celebrating 60 Years of Travel Excellence
In 2024, the Anderson family proudly celebrated 60 years in the travel industry – a legacy of guiding travelers toward unforgettable experiences that laid the foundation for Avoya Travel. As the company looks toward the future under the full leadership of Certares, the core values that built Avoya remain unchanged: innovation, service, and a commitment to empowering independent travel professionals.
The next chapter begins with confidence, clarity, and a continued passion for helping people see the world.
If you’re inspired by Avoya’s legacy and excited about what lies ahead, there’s never been a better time to join the Avoya Network. Become part of a forward-thinking travel community backed by industry-leading support, cutting-edge technology, and a renewed vision for growth. Learn more about how you can be part of the new future of Avoya by filling out the form below.
