More from every destination: Why DMCs are an essential part of the Global Single Stop Solution

Total trip management is about more than getting travellers from a to b. Air, rail, hotel and car services may form the foundations of an itinerary, but what happens at the destination is just as important to the overall experience.

Travellers are increasingly looking for more from their trips. Business travellers are extending trips to enjoy leisure experiences, cruise passengers want bespoke pre- and post-sailing itineraries, while Conference delegates are seeking memorable activities beyond the event itself. 

From my perspective, this is where strong local partnerships become particularly valuable. No matter how comprehensive an itinerary may be, having trusted expertise on the ground can make a significant difference, both to the experience of the traveller and to the travel business responsible for delivering it.

At Advantage Travel Partnership, our collaboration with the Lufthansa City Center (LCC) DMC Programme connects our members with local expertise and on-the-ground support, helping them respond to these evolving requirements while creating additional revenue opportunities.

Why work with a local DMC?

A Destination Management Company (DMC) gives travel businesses access to local expertise, established supplier relationships and on-the-ground support, helping them plan and deliver high-quality itineraries with confidence..

Local expertise and

insider access 

DMCs bring in-depth destination knowledge, current advice on local conditions and access to authentic experiences that can help travel businesses create more distinctive itineraries.

Less planning,

greater efficiency 

Acting as a single point of contact for local research, supplier coordination and bookings, a DMC can save travel professionals valuable time, particularly when managing complex or tailor-made itineraries.

Better value and

stronger margins 

Established supplier relationships can give travel businesses access to preferential rates, upgrades and added amenities, while providing greater control over margins.

Support when it

matters most 

On-the-ground assistance during delays, cancellations or emergencies can reduce operational pressure for travel businesses while providing additional reassurance for clients during their trip.

Bespoke

experiences 

With specialist support spanning luxury travel, MICE, cruises and other niche segments, DMCs can help travel professionals create flexible itineraries shaped around individual client interests.

Exceptional client

experiences 

By supporting seamless delivery and providing access to authentic local experiences, DMCs can help increase perceived value, strengthen client satisfaction and encourage repeat bookings and referrals.

A trusted local

network 

DMCs work with pre-vetted hotels, guides, transport providers and experience partners, helping to maintain consistent standards across an itinerary.

Sales and product

development support 

Destination training, product inspiration, local updates and marketing materials can also help travel businesses remain competitive and relevant, while supporting the conversion of new opportunities.

GO BEYOND THE BOOKING

For travel businesses, working with a DMC is about more than outsourcing elements of an itinerary. The right local partner can help enhance the overall trip, introduce experiences that might otherwise be difficult to source, and add value for both the client and the travel business. It can also open up additional revenue opportunities, making destination services an important part of the wider commercial proposition.

Advantage Travel Partnership members can visit the dedicated DMC page on the member intranet to access the LCC DMC portal and discover more about the destinations and services available.

Attending ITB Berlin 2027?

Advantage Travel Partnership members attending ITB Berlin, taking place from 16–18 March 2027, will also have an opportunity to connect with DMC partners from the Lufthansa City Centre network and discover more about the local expertise and support available.