what travel agency does wheel of fortune use

Does Wheel of Fortune Pay for Contestants Travel

Are you wondering if Wheel of Fortune covers your travel expenses when you become a contestant? Well, we’ve got the answers for you! In this article, we’ll delve into the ins and outs of the Wheel of Fortune Contestant Agreement to understand what they will pay for. We’ll also provide some insider tips on how you can offset those travel costs and explore the fine print of their travel policies. Get ready to spin that wheel without worrying about breaking the bank!

Key Takeaways

• Wheel of Fortune covers travel expenses for contestants, including flights and accommodations.
• Contestants do not have to spend any money on their journey to the show.
• Contestants should carefully read the contestant agreement to understand if travel expenses are covered.
• Contestants can explore strategies to offset travel costs, such as seeking sponsorships or using crowdfunding platforms.

The Travel Expenses Covered by Wheel of Fortune

Wheel of Fortune pays for your travel expenses when you appear as a contestant on the show. Isn’t that amazing? You don’t have to worry about spending a single penny on your journey to fame and fortune. It’s all taken care of by the generous folks at Wheel of Fortune. Whether you need to fly across the country or drive a few hours, they’ve got you covered. This means more freedom for you to focus on practicing your spinning skills and preparing your best puzzle-solving strategies. So go ahead and dream big, because with Wheel of Fortune, there are no limits. They believe in giving their contestants every opportunity to shine, without any financial burdens holding them back. It’s time to pack your bags and get ready for an adventure like no other!

Understanding the Wheel of Fortune Contestant Agreement

To participate in the show, you’ll need to understand the details of the contestant agreement, including any provisions regarding travel expenses. It’s important to know what you’re getting into before you spin that wheel! Here are a couple of things to consider:

• Travel arrangements : The contestant agreement may outline whether or not Wheel of Fortune covers your travel expenses. Make sure to read this section carefully so there are no surprises.
• If covered: Woo-hoo! You won’t have to worry about shelling out for flights or accommodations. That means more cash in your pocket for shopping sprees and sightseeing!
• If not covered: Bummer! You’ll need to plan and pay for your own travel arrangements. But hey, at least you have the freedom to choose how and where you want to go!

How Contestants Can Offset Travel Costs on Wheel of Fortune

If you’re looking to offset your travel costs on the show, there are a few strategies you can consider. First off, you could try reaching out to local businesses or community organizations in your area. They might be willing to sponsor your trip in exchange for some publicity. Another option is crowdfunding platforms like GoFundMe, where friends, family, and even strangers can contribute towards your expenses. Additionally, you could explore the possibility of finding discounted or free accommodations through websites like Couchsurfing or Airbnb. Lastly, don’t forget to take advantage of any travel rewards programs that you may be a part of. By using miles or points earned from previous trips, you can significantly reduce your overall expenses. With these tactics in mind, you have the freedom to make your dream of appearing on Wheel of Fortune a reality without breaking the bank.

Insider Tips for Traveling as a Wheel of Fortune Contestant

One thing you should keep in mind is that you can save money on accommodations by utilizing discounted or free options like Couchsurfing or Airbnb. Here are some insider tips to help you make the most of your travel experience as a Wheel of Fortune contestant:

• Pack Light : Traveling with minimal luggage not only gives you more freedom to move around but also saves you from paying extra baggage fees.
• Explore Local Cuisine : Instead of eating at expensive touristy restaurants, venture out and try local street food or affordable eateries for an authentic experience without breaking the bank.

Exploring the Fine Print: Travel Policies on Wheel of Fortune

Keep in mind that it’s important to understand the fine print of the travel policies when participating as a contestant on Wheel of Fortune. As someone who values freedom, you want to make sure you know exactly what is covered and what isn’t. While Wheel of Fortune does cover some travel expenses for contestants, it’s essential to note that they may not cover everything. For instance, they usually provide round-trip airfare and hotel accommodations for you and a guest. However, other costs like meals, transportation to and from the airport, and any additional expenses during your stay might be your responsibility. So before you spin that wheel, take a moment to review the travel policies thoroughly. By doing so, you’ll have peace of mind knowing what’s included and can plan accordingly for your exciting adventure on Wheel of Fortune!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much money do wheel of fortune contestants receive for travel expenses.

You receive money for travel expenses on Wheel of Fortune based on factors like distance and location. The show covers your transportation, but the exact amount varies.

Are Meals and Accommodations Covered by Wheel of Fortune During the Contestant’s Travel?

Yes, meals and accommodations are covered by Wheel of Fortune during your travel. You don’t have to worry about those expenses, so you can focus on playing the game and enjoying your experience.

Can Wheel of Fortune Contestants Choose Their Own Mode of Transportation for Travel?

Yes, you can choose your own mode of transportation when traveling as a Wheel of Fortune contestant. The show does not cover travel expenses, so it’s up to you to decide how you want to get there.

Are Family Members Allowed to Accompany Wheel of Fortune Contestants on Their Travel?

Yes, family members can accompany you on your Wheel of Fortune travel. Enjoy the freedom to bring loved ones and create lasting memories as you embark on this exciting journey together.

Is Travel Insurance Provided by Wheel of Fortune for the Contestants?

Yes, Wheel of Fortune provides travel insurance for contestants. It’s important to have that peace of mind knowing you’re covered in case anything unexpected happens during your trip.

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of follow-up comments by email.

Notify me of new posts by email.

What It Actually Means To Win A Trip On Wheel Of Fortune

Who among us hasn't dreamed of getting on a game show and walking away with a big win — say, a trip to someplace glamorous and just out of reach under normal circumstances? "Wheel of Fortune" offers that possibility with the spin of its titular wheel, a few well-chosen letters, and a correct guess of the latest word puzzle. Can't you just imagine yourself on that stage with host Pat Sajak and Vanna White? Would you scream if you won? Jump up and down with excitement?

Winning a trip on "Wheel of Fortune" is no small matter and contestants' enthusiastic reactions are part of what make the show so fun to watch — that and their sometimes muted responses to astonishing correct guesses . But we've all heard the rumors that game show wins aren't always what they appear — and there could even be some downsides to this kind of kismet. Does "Wheel of Fortune" really offer travel prizes with no strings attached?

Free trips from Wheel of Fortune? Not exactly

Alas, the rumors are true: prizes won on "Wheel of Fortune" are taxed in the state of California. So, if you win a high-priced trip, in a sense, you're going to have to pay for it. Another bit of bad news: as  Frommer's  reports, game shows get a deal on trips, and it's not a great one for contestants. While these prizes are usually donated to the game show, their values are inflated. For example, a trip to London and Paris was valued at nearly $10,000 when offered as a prize. But the same package cost only about $2,000 when purchased directly from the travel company.

That's not the end of the story, though. After all, the object of the game (aside from solving word puzzles) is to reward winners, not punish them. That's why "Wheel of Fortune" offers options. Behind door number 1: winners are allowed to forfeit the trip. That's what contestant Timothy Mark decided to do when he won a $7,000 trip to Antigua in 2018. "The income tax on that would be about $1,700," he wrote on his blog. "I decided I would rather save the tax money for something else, maybe a trip to Australia."

Trades are allowed on Wheel of Fortune

Taxes notwithstanding, not everyone wants to give up a trip they've just won on "Wheel of Fortune." That's why there's a second option. Behind door number 2: as  MarketWatch  reports, contestants can swap out pricey trips for less-costly travel packages. This was helpful when contestant Matt McMahon won a trip to Chile and a cruise down the Danube River valued at $15,300 in 2017. He found vacations priced at $10,800, for a significant savings that didn't cost him the opportunity to travel with his partner, Adam Hart. "(G)iven that it's just the two of us and we share living expenses, experiences are worth more than money right now," he said.

And really, that's a great, big-picture attitude, too. If you're going to go on "Wheel of Fortune" as a contestant, it's not all about winning is it? It's got to be about the thrill of using your brain power on national television, too, and walking a way with a great story to tell. The experience is a priceless slice of deliciousness. Winning a trip — even with some strings attached — is the cherry on top.

• Facebook Group

Chip and Company

The BEST in Disney and More!

Wheel of Fortune is at Disney again for ‘Disney Grand Adventures Week’

Disney fans love seeing Disney Parks represented in their favorite television shows, so we’re excited to let you know that Disney has announced that Wheel of Fortune will again be doing a Disney-themed week, starting tomorrow, September 26th. Disney released details about the upcoming episodes:

The shows feature fantastic prize trips to both Walt Disney World Resort and the Disneyland Resort – a pretty good reminder that it’s time for you to be thinking about planning your next magical vacation, right? Plus, you’ll see Grandparents who are all big Disney fans, clever puzzles, and many more surprises. And… there’s even a chance for you and your gang to win a magical Grand Adventure at Walt Disney World Resort, just for tuning in! ( Details on that are here .)

We were thrilled to host Pat, Vanna and the whole “Wheel” Crew here at Walt Disney World Resort this summer, when we filmed all new content for this year’s shows.

And, because I know you love it when we can “lift the curtain” and give you a behind-the-scenes look at Production … here we go!

These spectacular photographs were taken during the shoot in July by “Wheel of Fortune” Photographer Carol Kaelson. They’ll give you a true “insider’s look” at just how many people it takes to make “television magic.” (And, yes, that’s yours truly sharing some of my favorite Disney Trivia with Pat and Vanna. But be sure you look closely. You just might see a favorite character from Disney’s Animal Kingdom lurking amongst the trees.)

Of course, after a fantastic time here in Florida, it was time to pack it up and head to California to tape the shows. And, yes … Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Goofy were with us, as well. Here’s one more sneak peek, as the Gang shot a fun scene that will open tomorrow night’s episode.

Disney Grand Adventure Week on “Wheel of Fortune” begins tomorrow, September 26, and continues through September 30.

Will you be watching this week?

If you are unsure of where to begin planning your Disney Parks Vacation, contact me today to take advantage of my FREE vacation planning services! I specialize in Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani resort in Hawaii, as well as Adventures by Disney. Email  me today at [email protected]  for a free quote, or you can follow along on Facebook  here .

Photos: Disney Parks Blog

Let our friends at Destinations to Travel help you book your next Disney Vacation. They are the preferred Travel Agency of Chip and Company and Disney Addicts, and who we use ourselves.

Get started below for your FREE No Obligation Quote.

Book With our friends at Destinations to Travel

For the BEST in Disney, Universal, Dollywood, and SeaWorld Theme Park News, Entertainment, Merchandise & More follow us on,  Facebook , Instagram , and Youtube . Don't forget to check out the Chip and Company Radio Network too!

Written by:

Chip and Co Past Writers and Friends 18,195 Posts

Related posts.

180-Acre Adventure Hub Coming to Kansas City

Critter Co-Op and Tiana’s Bayou General Coming to Tiana’s Bayou Adventure in the Magic Kingdom

Disney Studios Wows at CinemaCon 2024 with Sneak Peeks and Star Appearances

Shop the latest disney items.

New Up Collection Debuts at Disney’s Animal Kingdom!

New Psychedelic Alice in Wonderland Collection For A Trip To Tulgey Wood!

New Tomorrowland Collection Spotted At Magic Kingdom!

Not to be Missed Popcorn Buckets, Sippers, and Other Novelties Coming to Pixar Fest

‘Wheel of Fortune’ Hits the Road with First-Ever Live Tour (EXCLUSIVE)

By Carson Burton

Carson Burton

• ‘A Simple Favor 2’ to Reunite Anna Kendrick, Blake Lively and Director Paul Feig 2 weeks ago
• ‘Gen V’ Trailer: College-Set ‘The Boys’ Spinoff Promises Insane Amounts of Blood, Guts and Hormones 7 months ago
• ‘Kraven the Hunter’ Trailer: Aaron Taylor-Johnson Stars in Bloody Spider-Man Villain Origin Story 10 months ago

“ Wheel of Fortune ” is going on its first-ever live tour. “Wheel of Fortune Live!” is set to travel across North America for a tour of over 60 dates starting on September 8, offering fans a unique experience of the massively popular game show.

The tour is produced by Right Angle Entertainment in partnership with Sony Pictures Television and UTA. Attendees will have the chance to spin a replica of the iconic “Wheel of Fortune” wheel and solve the puzzles on the tour’s puzzle-board to win prizes including $10,000, or trips to Paris and Hawaii, among others. Additionally, other audience members will be randomly selected to win cash and prizes.

“This partnership with Right Angle presents an opportunity to expand our reach to give more people a live experience as close to being on the televised show as you can get without actually being in the studio,” said Suzanne Prete, Executive Vice President, Game Shows for Sony Pictures Television. “We look forward to providing this incredible local immersive experience to people who might not otherwise make it out to Los Angeles to be on the set with Pat and Vanna.”

“Wheel of Fortune,” one of the the longest-running syndicated game shows in American television, began in 1975. The show is currently in its 39th season and is hosted by Pat Sajak , with Vanna White. The show has also spawned the primetime edition “Celebrity Wheel of Fortune” on ABC.

Popular on Variety

“Partnering with Sony to take America’s Game on the road for the first time is an honor for Right Angle,” Justin Sudds, Right Angle Entertainment co-Founder, said. “This game has a fan base that spans generations and we can’t wait to bring it to theaters across North America giving fans the chance to live the dream of spinning the Wheel and winning big live on stage!”

Tickets for the live show start at $29.50. Pre-sale begins May 17 at 12 p.m. PT, and general sale opens on May 20 at 10 a.m. local time. VIP Packages will offer fans early access, premiere seats, pre-show lounge access and photo opportunities to spin the wheel. For tickets and more information, including a full list of locations, visit  www.WheelofFortuneLive.com .

The show will begin in Owensboro, Ky. on Thursday, September 8. Hosts for the tour will be announced in the coming weeks, as will 2023 tour dates.

More From Our Brands

Jellyroll vs. jelly roll: pennsylvania band sues country star for trademark infringement, facebook’s former cfo drops a record $52 million on malibu’s point dume, spirit of st. louis: ufl’s battlehawks are proof of league’s concept, the best loofahs and body scrubbers, according to dermatologists, the golden bachelor’s gerry turner and theresa nist to divorce after three months of marriage, verify it's you, please log in.

The Truth About Winning A Trip On Wheel Of Fortune

A lot of us would love the chance to compete on the legendary game show Wheel of Fortune , and winning lots of cash or an awesome trip would really be the icing on the cake. After all, walking away from the experience with winnings is the object of the game, but what if winning Wheel of Fortune wasn't everything it seemed.

For starters, just doing well on the show is a bit of a challenge. It's one thing to be able to shout out all the answers from the comfort of your favorite chair at home, but actually doing so on live TV is a whole other beast. Former executive producer Harry Friedman told San Francisco's  ABC7  that half the battle includes being the type of person who already likes to solve problems and puzzles.

Host Pat Sajak added that success on the show really rests with a contestant's approach. "The trick is just treat it as a fun experience ... it doesn't hurt to watch a show occasionally because there are strategies involved." And so if one can do all that, and actually win cash, a car, or a trip, what of the victor's spoils. How much do winning contestants get to actually keep?

Wheel of Fortune winnings are taxed

Many of the prizes on Wheel of Fortune seem almost too good to be true. Contestants regularly win enormous sums of money, expensive cars, and trips around the world. It turns out that there is a reason the prizes might feel unrealistic: winners end up paying taxes on everything they take home from their TV experience.

When you win big on the show, the IRS treats the price tag of your winnings just like income: You're taxed in a big way. CinemaBlend explored the case of Wheel of Fortune winner Matt McMahan, who walked away with over $16,000 in cash and two trips worth more than $15,000. The show does allow winners to find less expensive versions of their trips to avoid a higher tax hit. McMahan took this option, ending up with trips for $10,000.

Once the taxes were paid out, McMahan estimates he walked away from Wheel of Fortune with about $6,000 out of over $30,000 in prizes. It really makes you think. When speaking to MarketWatch , he did say that the trips were worth it, saying that even with all the strings attached, "experiences are worth more than money right now."

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Sweepstakes
• Culture + Design
• TV + Movies

This 'Wheel of Fortune' Contestant Lost Her Trip to Nashville Over a Controversial Rule — but a Tour Company Stepped in to Save the Day

A tiny mistake almost cost Kristen Shaw, a recent contestant on the game show Wheel of Fortune , her prize money and an incredible trip to Nashville . But luckily for her, one Tennessee travel company decided to step in, according to USA Today .

Shaw was a guest on Wheel of Fortune on Thursday night. During a crossword puzzle challenge, she faced off against other contestants Bryan Idler and Jessie Pankow, the Tennessean reported. When it was her turn, she made one teeny, tiny mistake that cost her — big time.

All Shaw had to do was read off the four words that had begun to appear in the game. However, one of the rules of the game is to not “add” any words and to only say the phrases or words on the screen, verbatim. When Shaw’s turn came around, she nearly had it.

The correct answer was: “right, football, left, Sally.” Unfortunately, Shaw answered, “right, football, left, and Sally.” That “and” ended up being a technicality that caused Shaw to lose $1,950 in prize money and a trip to Nashville, Tennessee worth $8,000, according to USA Today . Many Wheel watchers voiced their opinions on the sad injustice of Shaw losing her prize over one tiny, inconsequential word.

Sadly, rules are rules. According to USA Today , the show’s host, Pat Sajak, always tries to warn contestants not to add words.

Shaw ended up taking home $3,000 after her stint at Wheel of Fortune , but her trip was lost forever. That is, until L.J. Whalen, a director at a Nashville-based tourism company, Adventureworks , recruited some hospitality companies to help pay for Shaw’s trip.

“Our hospitality community is so close-knit, and we’d love to show Ms. Shaw and the nation that we’re a lot more than boot-stomping and beer drinking. This is what we do here in Nashville. We give second chances,” Whalen said in a statement to USA Today . “And we are not going to make you solve a puzzle to claim it.”

Whalen’s gift to Shaw includes plane tickets, a hotel, and tickets to the Grand Ole Opry, according to USA Today . Shaw told the news outlet that she intends to visit with her mother, but they haven’t picked a date yet.

Besides being shocked, Shaw is also incredibly thankful for such a generous gift. “There is a lot of negativity in this world, but this shows me we are all human, we make mistakes, and for someone to want to give me a second chance, it just blew me away.”

Inside Fora, the startup igniting a possible renaissance for travel agents

Somewhere in between travel lockdowns during the first year of the pandemic and the current chaos plaguing airports around the world, a bevy of new travel startups launched with promises of a better experience.

The latest entry is Fora , self-described as a tech-forward travel agency that essentially serves as a hub for experienced travelers looking for a launchpad to run a side gig (or more) as a travel agent.

Since launching in August just one year ago, Fora now boasts nearly 500 travel advisers worldwide (97% of whom have never worked in the sector before), operating within its network, with more than 30,000 people on the wait list.

And this week, the New York–based company announced $13.5 million in Series A funding, which will help advance the development of the travel agency’s technology for advisers.

Fortune recently spoke with cofounders Henley Vazquez, Evan Frank, and Jake Peters, who shared more about what it‘s like to run a travel business right now.

The following interview has been condensed and lightly edited for clarity.

Could you share a bit about your professional backgrounds before launching Fora?

Vazquez: Each of us are repeat founders who have worked in the travel industry for decades. I originally caught the travel bug in college when I took a gap year, and have been a travel adviser for more than 15 years. I was on the founding team at Indagare, which is where I learned all about being a travel adviser and working with hotels. Then, I founded Passported, a Virtuoso travel agency. 

My cofounder, Evan Frank, started in corporate finance, then venture capital, and has spent the last 10-plus years building new disrupters in the travel and hospitality space. He’s a three-time founder or CEO of travel and hospitality marketplace startups, including Onefinestay, which was bought by Accor Hotels. 

Jake Peters, Fora’s cofounder and chief product and technology officer, is our tech genius. He’s a self-taught programmer and tech entrepreneur with more than two decades in the industry. With his passions rooted in tech, data, and travel, Jake wanted to make dramatic shifts within the travel agency industry alongside Evan and I. 

The three of us make up a dynamic team, each with very different specialties and interests, which is what makes it work so well. We cofounded Fora in order to create a new type of travel agency that welcomes everyone with the interest or passion—the go-to person for travel tips in their networks—to sell travel in a way that was previously reserved for pro travel agents. Our mission is to build the next-generation brand in travel, empowering a network of travel entrepreneurs along the way.

What inspired the launch of Fora?

Frank: When we first started Fora, we actually looked at the real estate industry and drew some inspiration. Compass had just IPOed, and we read that there were 3 million real estate license holders in the U.S., the majority of whom were not full-timers. Yet, there were only 100,000 travel agents. We asked ourselves why there was such a disconnect, especially considering how fun a full-time career in travel could be, as I observed in my cofounder Henley. Having our kids in the same school, Henley and I were constantly surrounded by other moms and parents who were planning trips for their families all around the world, but they had no idea that they could be monetizing those bookings by being a travel adviser.

That said, traditional travel advisers had to hit a certain amount of sales in order to be successful and work in the industry, so there was never room to sell travel as a side gig. We wanted to change that and began brainstorming over the pandemic, when travel had come to a screeching halt. Henley and I both had the same idea: Travel is coming back and remote work isn’t disappearing, so why can’t more people do this job, and how can we build a more viable organization? Even though travel was on hold, we knew the current travel industry was dominated by big online booking sites and big agencies, but people craved human connection and experiences they’d receive with a traditional travel agency for when we’d start to travel again. 

There were also 1.5 million women who left the workforce due to the pandemic, and we knew these people would have the time and interest in a side hustle or new career. Plus, much of education and training was forced to move online due to the pandemic, and this created the first opportunity to train up a remote labor force at no real disadvantage to being based in an office. The creator economy and cohort-based courses also really exploded due to being stuck at home with a computer. 

From there, we decided we wanted to enable entrepreneurs to transform their passion for travel into revenue, and to do it by curating the most incredible experiences for travelers. By empowering the long tail of who could sell travel for a living and building tools to make the work easier and efficient, we created Fora that has the technology of an online booking site, but human touch like a traditional travel agency.

Being a travel agent as a career significantly changed as consumers were able to book travel themselves via the internet, causing a decline for the profession since the 1990s. Why do you think there might be a comeback now?

Vazquez: The market for travel agents is at an all-time high with all things COVID as it relates to cancellations, last-minute changes, and stress-free travel in the midst of a pandemic. It’s our job to stay on top of the current travel advisories, trends, and restrictions so you don’t have to worry about it. 

The internet is also uncurated and uncontrolled, with endless possibilities but no one to sort through the noise for you. That’s where our agents step in. Plus, they’re there to support when things go wrong. 

On top of that, travel advisers are able to set you up with perks and added benefits that you can’t get when booking with an online booking site. Because of their direct relationships with the property, people using travel advisers are more likely to get an upgrade, dining and spa credits, and added amenities. Plus, we’ll make sure the special occasions that you’re traveling for are celebrated because we’re in constant contact with the properties and their team. Think: wine in-room upon arrival, a romantic turndown, or a surprise treat for the kids. 

The travel industry is certainly rebounding, even as airports suffer from record delays, cancellations , losses of luggage , and meltdowns ( in some cases, literally ). But inflation and a looming recession have some people nervous about spending on travel. What do you think will be some of the top travel trends this fall and holiday season?

Vazquez: The looming recession hasn’t stopped travel from happening, but we do continue to see last-minute travel planning as the trend that won’t quit, and we suspect that has to do with confidence in spending. We recently saw one-third of a record week of bookings all with departure dates for the following week. If there’s uncertainty in the markets, what we’re seeing is a hesitation to plan much further into the future (rather than a hesitation to not travel at all).

That said, what’s unique is that everything is so much more expensive in travel right now, but people are still booking their dream trips regardless of the cost. After being stuck at home for two years, they are eager to see the world again. 

In terms of trends, there’s also less of a focus on action-packed itineraries. Fewer people are asking for tickets to the Louvre or museums; most don’t want to plan a back-to-back itinerary. Instead, they’re wanting to wander and explore the cities they’re in, eat great meals, and feel immersed in places they’ve missed. We’ve also seen a major rise in adventure and outdoors-focused travel. I lived in Costa Rica for part of the pandemic, driven in large part by the need to do things again and not be stuck indoors. From national parks to tropical rain forests, we’re seeing the same trend in trip planning—let’s get active!

In terms of airfare, now there are more travelers than there are seats available. For people who haven’t thought about your flights this holiday season, you have to get on it now, although we do know from our data that last-minute remains the name of the game. The big thing is that people are adjusting their behavior to the unpredictability of flights, building in buffer days or flying in earlier versus later to safeguard against delays and cancellations. We’ve all gotten pretty good at the “go with the flow” approach, even if we don’t like it. Working with a travel agent means that you have a friend in the industry who can help you navigate the ever-changing nature of travel right now.

How is the company funded? Is it self-funded or have you reached out to investors? What has the financing process been like?

Frank: In order to innovate in the travel agent industry—historically very fragmented with lots of small owner-operators, and as a result generally too low margin to build technology and many of the capabilities typically seen only at OTAs [online travel agencies]—we needed to raise capital early. Agents have been left behind in the online booking revolution in travel; we want to put the power back in their hands and build something that feels halfway between a traditional agency and an OTA. An OTA that’s powered by humans.

As a result, we’ve been VC-backed since early days. We closed a $5 million seed round in fall 2021 and just announced our Series A funding for $13.5 million that was co-led by Heartcore Capital and Forerunner. This Series A funding will be used to accelerate the next evolution of our platform: an innovative client and booking management system—the first of its kind in the industry—exclusively for our community of travel advisers.

We’re an experienced team with exits under our belts and diverse backgrounds—agency, travel supplier, building technology products—which has helped attract this equity capital.

Looking forward five years, how do you want to Fora to grow? What kind of services do you want to add in the future?

Peters: Travel advising can really be the best job in the world. However, in order for this to be true, and in order to welcome thousands of travel-passionate people into this industry, a lot needs to be rethought: from payments to marketing to enabling different ways of working to community—and to simplify the planning and booking process. 

We have grand visions and many ideas for things we can build; piecing our platform together thoughtfully is the work we are undertaking now. At the moment, our focus is laying foundations both from a product and underlying tech perspective, but also more importantly from a process perspective—how we build, how we listen to and support our advisers, and how we interact with the travel tech and supplier community at large.

And we’re doing this all with a laser focus on enabling our advisers to be productive and enjoy the work of selling travel and serving their clients. I enjoy looking ahead a few years and thinking about how we will have a product that weaves together all of the necessary components; this includes booking tools, client management tools, payments, supplier information, training, and community, and more into a single offering that is powerful and a joy to use.  

I know I speak for everyone on the team when I say that we’re very committed to growing Fora and getting it to a much larger scale than today. We want to bring new people into the industry and empower them to transform their passion for travel into a meaningful career, side hustle or full-time. We want to support travel advisers as best we can with technology and community. The travel agent industry has roughly 100,000 agents. Our mission at Fora is to bring in the next 100,000 agents, or more, with a more progressive approach to training, labor, and technology. We want to make being a Fora adviser the best job in the world.

This is an installment of   Startup Year One , a special series of interviews with founders about the major lessons they have learned in the immediate aftermath of their businesses’ first year of operation.

Latest in Lifestyle

• 0 minutes ago

Defeated CEOs are now conceding hybrid working is here to stay—a year after 62% said they expected a full-time return to office by 2026

Shohei Ohtani’s long-time translator set up the baseball star’s bank account and stole over $16 million to pay gambling debts, prosecutors say

Harvard becomes latest Ivy League school to backtrack on SAT admissions requirement

OJ Simpson dead at 76

Meet a Missouri dad who went from a ‘full-on bigot’ to fighting bathroom bans on behalf of his 16-year-old daughter: ‘When it was my child, it just flipped a switch’

Tennessee judge finds NBA star Ja Morant punched a teenager in self-defense: ‘If you start a fight, then you should be ready to finish it’

Most popular.

$2.3 billion hedge fund manager on his move from New York to Florida: ‘I know of no business that has generated long term success by driving away its highest paying customers’

In-N-Out’s billionaire heiress says she stood in line for 2 hours to land a job at her own store when she was just a teenager to shake the ‘stigma of being the owner’s kid’ and ‘earn respect’

Billionaire and Virgin Group founder, Richard Branson’s wealth has tumbled by more than half since 2021 to $3bn as SPAC problems gave him ‘a big jolt from the side through COVID’

The Trump donor whom Biden can’t fire is running the U.S. Postal Service directly into the ground—just what everyone warned about when he was confirmed during the pandemic

Donald Trump booted from prestigious list of billionaires after Truth Social parent’s swan dive

Air Canada pilots land a Boeing 737 in Idaho after another in-flight emergency

• 7 Little Johnstons
• The Kardashians
• Vanderpump Rules

Where is Wheel of Fortune filmed and how can you get tickets?

Wheel of Fortune is a gameshow that’s been running since 1975! Vanna White and Pat Sajak are still hosting the show in 2021 and contestants are winning all kinds of prizes in season 39 including new homes, but others are losing out on prizes such as Audi Q3s…

Airing weeknights, Wheel of Fortune is keeping viewers entertained year-round, but it appears that fans of the show want to know more about where Wheel of Fortune is filmed.

Where is Wheel of Fortune filmed?

For anyone wondering where the iconic gamshow takes place, Wheel of Fortune is filmed at Sony Pictures Studios in Culver City, California.

Since the Covid-19 pandemic, the show hasn’t had a live audience in for filming in the studios, however, Wheel of Fortune will liking be able to resume its regular filming in the future.

• Read More: When was Celebrity Wheel of Fortune 2021 filmed? ABC show explored

How to get tickets for the show

Usually, fans of Wheel of Fortune would head over to the show’s website to bag themselves tickets but the show isn’t currently featuring a live audience.

Anyone who wants to be kept updated on when tickets will be available can sign up to get emails here .

The show is currently filming without a live audience, but it still features hosts Pat and Vanna.

Can anyone be a contestant on Wheel of Fortune?

To be a contestant on Wheel of Fortune, applicants have to be 18 years old.

It’s free to apply to be on the show, but should you get selected, you have to cover your own travel expenses.

The process of application involves filling out an online form as well as sending in an audition video of yourself. The audition video has to be under one minute long, and applicants are advised not to film it in their office, not to ramble and to remember to smile and be natural.

There are rules on Wheel of Fortune that protective contestants should be aware of including the timing rules that caught out Charlene Rubush in 2021!

• See Also: Why didn’t Charlene Rubush win an Audi on Wheel of Fortune?

WATCH WHEEL OF FORTUNE WEEKNIGHTS ON WPSD LOCAL 6, 6:30 PM.

AND GET FREAKY WITH US ON INSTAGRAM AND FACEBOOK

MORE CELEBRITY STORIES

Related posts, more in what's hot.

Get the Hottest Deals First!

.sale-hero { margin-top: -130px !important; } .sale-hero img { filter: drop-shadow(0 0 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.2)); } .sale-hero p { color: #fff; font-size: clamp(2rem, 6vw, 2.7rem); font-weight: bold; line-height: 1.4; margin-top: 10px; margin-bottom: 40px; text-shadow: 0 0 25px rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.3); } .home-search-hero-form a.btn-primary { height: 4.8rem; font-size: 1.6rem; line-height: 1.6rem; padding: 1.6rem; margin-bottom: 15px; filter: drop-shadow(0 0 10px rgba(0,0,0,0.1)); } .collette-hero-overlay { border: unset; box-shadow: inherit; display: none; } @media only screen and (max-width: 767px) { .py-5.mt-5.d-none.d-md-block { display: block !important; } .sale-hero { margin-top: -40px !important; padding: 25px; } .sale-hero p { margin-bottom: 25px; } } Save up to 20% * on tours worldwide Learn More *Restrictions Apply

Special offers, the collette difference.

Expertly Designed

We get it. You’re not the homebody type. We aren’t either. Your passion, needs, and desires have shaped our business. Destination experts hand-craft transformative experiences designed specifically with you – our fellow traveler – at heart. We wouldn't trust your experience with anyone else.

Guided Touring Reimagined

We know you want to explore and also dive in. We’re curious travelers, just like you, so rest assured, you’ll experience must-sees and connect with the people and culture that define the destination. You’ll eat in locals’ homes, take cooking classes, travel by trains and tuk tuks, explore cities with food tours, and stay in igloos, castles, and chateaus.

Value Beyond Price

Your time is one of your most precious commodities, so you should spend more of it in the destination, not driving between places. We design tours that spend the fewest hours on the coach. One-night stays are a rarity. This is your trip, and you shouldn’t feel rushed. With choice, flexibility, and free time, take it all in – this is your tour.

Confidently Collette

Travel with trust. Because this is your trip - something you've planned for and dreamed about. You should feel confident in your journey every step of the way.

Industry-Leading Travel Protection

Cancel for any reason (bad hair day applies) up to 24 hours before your tour leaves and get a full money-back refund. Collette issued a record-breaking $185 million cash back to travelers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Experience & Expertise

We've been doing this for a long time. Since 1918, in fact. Collette is the most experienced and longest-running tour operator in North America. You choose...

Traveling Well

Our team is on the pulse of world events and protocols, so you are kept fully aware and feel well-prepared for your trip.

Service Rating

Independent

Why Guided Travel

You're a traveler with places to go. We'll take care of the details. You embrace the journey.

Social Connections

Meet a group of people who share your love of travel. Learn from locals. Forge friendships in the coolest places.

Independence

There's plenty of time built into our itineraries, plus optional tours, Choice on Tour excursions, and more. It's your trip, your way.

Expertly Planned

You know what you want to see and do - let a team of experts handle all the details from the must-sees to centrally-located accommodations and local lessons.

The Best Pacing

Don’t rush – this is your time to see the world. Get more time in the destination, and enjoy an ideal balance of included excursions and free time.

Our Best Moments

When you go, capture all those incredible moments, and use the hashtag #GoCollette so that we can share your joy!

Featured Tours

Collette travelers choose from 160 tours across all 7 continents, as well as 5 travel styles including small group touring and destination spotlights. Check out some trending tours for inspiration on your next adventure.

Explorations

$3,599 pp* $3,999 pp

Alaska's Northern Lights

$2,549 pp* $2,999 pp.

Tuscan & Umbrian Countryside featuring Italy's Charming Hill Towns

$5,661 pp* $6,165 pp.

African Safari: Kenya and Tanzania

Winter in Croatia featuring Plitvice Lakes and the Adriatic Coast

$4,542 pp* $5,299 pp.

Icelandic Adventure

$2,699 pp* $2,999 pp.

Costa Rica: A World of Nature featuring Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano & Manuel Antonio National Park

$4,929 pp* $5,799 pp.

Mediterranean Coastal Journey Spain, France & Italy

$5,157 pp* $5,899 pp.

Exploring South Africa, Victoria Falls & Botswana

$3,739 pp* $4,399 pp.

The Best of Ireland featuring the Wild Atlantic Way

$3,329 pp* $3,699 pp, historical greenbrier featuring washington d.c. & williamsburg, $2,124 pp* $2,499 pp, spotlight on northern italy featuring venice, verona & the dolomites, $1,699 pp* $1,999 pp.

Spain's Costa del Sol & Madrid

Find a travel agency.

Once you've found the perfect Collette tour, your local travel agent can assist you in making reservations. To find a preferred travel agent in your area, please enter your 5-digit zip code, then click Search.

Enter a Whole or Partial Zip Code

Please tell us everything, we want it all.

We really value your feedback, please be open an honest. Tell us where we can improve, how we can get better. This feedback is anonymous, but if you would like us to get in touch with you regarding an issue provide your email address as part of your feedback and we will get right back to you.

Talk to an Expert

Please fill out the form below, and a Collette Expert will contact you shortly.

• Yes, I'm a Travel Professional
• Yes, I am working with a Travel Professional
• I am traveling with 8 or more travelers

View or Download