FyndTravel Founder Lisa Watson Receives 2025 ASTA Partner Medal of Excellence
Lisa Watson, Founder and Owner of FyndTravel, has been awarded the 2025 ASTA Partner Medal of Excellence—one of the highest honors given by the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA).
Driven by the travel advisor community through a 100% write-in vote, the award is a true reflection of the impact Watson and FyndTravel have had on the professionals they serve.
Launched in 2023, FyndTravel is a small, independently owned, comprehensive and directory-driven platform that helps travel advisors discover vetted opportunities—from conferences and FAMs to training programs, supplier partnerships, and beyond—all in one place.
Earning this recognition, Watson shared, reflects the growing impact the company is making within the travel advisor community—earning acknowledgment alongside some of the industry's most recognized names; AmaWaterways, Delta Air Lines, Royal Caribbean International, Marriott International, and the Globus family of brands were all companies that also received ASTA honors in 2025 across various award categories.
"What started as an idea on a notepad has turned into something I never could have imagined," said Watson, who was also named an ASTA Entrepreneur of the Year Award finalist in 2024. "FyndTravel was built to give travel advisors more—more access, more opportunities, and more ways to grow their business without feeling lost or overwhelmed. Receiving this award is not just about me; it's a statement that even small businesses can have a powerful voice in this industry."
FyndTravel was born from Watson's more than 20 years of working behind-the-scenes supporting travel advisors, her deep industry relationships, and a personal dream to create something different: An independent platform built for the travel advisor community, by someone who truly understands their needs.
Having launched without corporate funding or a huge team behind it, FyndTravel has grown in just over three years into what Watson often describes as, "the ultimate events guide and industry directory for travel professionals." Unlike traditional platforms that feature only preferred suppliers, FyndTravel takes an independent, directory-style approach, allowing vetted advisors to explore hundreds of events, FAM opportunities, trainings, and supplier connections.
"This award reflects every late night, every 'yes' when it felt scary, and every advisor who's trusted FyndTravel as their resource," Watson shared. "It's humbling, it's emotional, and it's also a reminder that in this industry, it's not about the size of your business—it's about the relationships you build and the value you bring to the travel advisor community."
For Watson, this recognition proves that vision, heart, and community can truly make waves, even in an industry often dominated by long-established brands and big budget players. She hopes this inspires other small businesses, especially women entrepreneurs, to keep pushing forward.
"There's still plenty of room for independent voices in this industry. FyndTravel is proof of that."
Learn more by visiting FyndTravel.
Courtesy of Groups Today.
Photo courtesy of ASTA.
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