Fort Lauderdale-based OLA Vacations announced on October 13, 2026, the launch of the OLA Host Network (OHN), a host agency program designed to give independent travel advisors stronger economics, modern technology, and comprehensive support. The program aims to help advisors build and grow their businesses with a straightforward model: a $99 annual membership fee, a $15 per-booking fee, and the opportunity for qualified advisors to earn up to 100% of their commission.
Members also gain access to OLA's proprietary technology, AI-powered tools, supplier relationships, training, and seven-day support. The network was developed by a team with over 100 years of combined travel industry experience, blending traditional travel expertise with OLA's growing investment in technology and artificial intelligence.
"Travel advisors work incredibly hard to build their businesses and earn their commissions. We wanted to create a model that allows them to keep more of what they earn while also giving them the technology, products and support they need to grow," said Anthony Hamawy, CEO of OLA Vacations and a longtime travel industry executive.
The launch of OHN matters because it signals a shift in the host agency landscape, where independent advisors often face high fees and limited commission retention. By offering up to 100% commission and low fixed costs, OLA Vacations is positioning itself as a disruptive force that could pressure competitors to revise their own pricing and support models. For travel advisors, this means potentially higher take-home pay and better tools to compete in an increasingly digital marketplace.
"Technology and AI are going to change many aspects of how travel is researched, marketed and sold, but I believe the travel advisor will remain a critical part of this industry," Hamawy said. "Our goal is to combine the best of both worlds — the knowledge and relationships of experienced travel professionals with the technology & economics that can help independent advisors compete and grow."
The network is initially focused on experienced travel advisors and is designed to evolve alongside their businesses. OLA plans to continue expanding OHN with additional AI capabilities, marketing resources, travel products, and advisor tools. "We think it is time for a different kind of host agency," Hamawy added.
For the broader travel industry, the move underscores the growing role of artificial intelligence in travel retailing and the importance of hybrid models that pair human expertise with digital efficiency. Independent advisors interested in learning more or applying can visit OLAHostNetwork.com or call toll free 844-OLA Host, Monday-Friday, 9AM – 5PM Eastern time. OLA Vacations, a member of Signature Travel Network, is an online travel agency that blends advanced technology with expert guidance to design elevated vacations. More information about the company is available at olavacations.com.
