Global Connections, Inc. (GCI) was founded in 1996 with a singular mission: to provide families with affordable travel opportunities. GCI’s travel club, GDVPlus, combines over 30 years of industry expertise to offer a full-service travel club that is marketed by independent distributors. With an exclusive, turnkey sales process and comprehensive member servicing, GDVPlus has grown to serve more than 200,000 members, and it oversees a network of successful independent distributors throughout the United States and Hawaii. Year after year, thousands of families trust GDVPlus to create unforgettable vacation memories.
Members of GDVPlus have access to over 100,000 condos, with each login to the member website offering the ability to book condos, cruises, guided tours, and even weekly hotel stays worldwide. In addition, members enjoy a wide range of travel benefits, including last-minute deals, 24/7 flight, car, and hotel bookings, access to an award-winning travel agency, and exclusive offers from industry partners. GDVPlus stands out as one of the most sought-after clubs for distributors due to its unique offerings, making it a highly competitive program in the travel industry.
Customer Service
GCI provides multiple channels of communication to ensure that members are supported whenever they need assistance. Members can reach out via phone, chat, email, blog, and social media, offering flexibility and convenience. GCI’s customer service agents engage with members before, during, and after their vacations, fostering meaningful connections and providing the confidence needed to travel with ease. In addition to live agents available during business hours, GCI maintains 24/7 communication through social media, blogs, emails, and other website content. Recognizing that today’s members may seek assistance outside traditional business hours, GCI’s marketing team ensures continuous updates and travel inspiration, available anytime for members to access.
Industry Partnerships and Technology
GCI strives to enhance the member experience through technological solutions that benefit both the company and its members. Members can easily book and manage reservations, submit referrals, request inventory, renew memberships, make payments, and chat with agents—all online. In 2023, GCI’s technology team upgraded the inventory request process, shifting from agent-based handling to an automated digital system, setting a new industry standard. As digital engagement grows, GCI remains committed to meeting the needs of tech-savvy customers, partners, and employees. Through strategic vendor partnerships and innovative technology, GCI continues to lead the way in the vacation industry.
Referral Programs for Members and Distributors
GCI understands that a great product is even better when paired with a rewarding referral system. The company offers two unique programs—one for members and one for distributors.
The member referral program, known as “Share the Fun,” allows members to refer friends and family to GDVPlus, earning unlimited rewards in the form of gift cards, membership credit, or cash. Unlike other programs, there is no cap on the number of referrals, meaning members can earn rewards as much as they like. Additionally, the program includes certificates for condominium stays, giving potential referrals a taste of the membership benefits.
The distributorship referral program allows distributors to earn alongside their referrals. Launched in 2024, this program offers industry partners the opportunity to earn commissions, bonuses, and other rewards when referring new distributors to sell GDVPlus or other GCI products. The commission structure is highly customizable, creating a win-win situation for both GCI and its distributors.
GCI carries forward the legacy of its founder, Tom Lyons, with each product, employee, and member honoring the core belief in making memories and cherishing time with loved ones.
