WHY IT RATES: The Ruby of Siam award has been given to dedicated agency owners or managers since 1987. — Lacey Pfalz, Associate Editor, TravelPulse
Virtuoso, the leading global network specializing in luxury and experiential travel, honored Sharon Fake, Executive Director of Travel Experts, with the prestigious “Ruby of Siam” award, an honor with long standing tradition within Virtuoso since 1987. It is presented to an agency owner or manager who selflessly gives their time, effort and wisdom to elevate Virtuoso’s collective reputation and perceived value.
The award was announced at the 2025 Virtuoso Global Awards during the 37th annual Virtuoso Travel Week, which took place August 9-15 in Las Vegas.
Sharon Fake is the Executive Director of Travel Experts, the premier Host Agency with more than 600 independent advisors who focus on the luxury market.
She joined Travel Experts in 1999 when she and her husband moved from Delaware to Raleigh, NC for her husband’s work. Prior to that, Fake had worked as a teacher for 15 years, entered the travel industry in corporate travel and then joined a small three-person luxury travel agency in Wilmington, DE.
Travel Experts was celebrating its 10th anniversary with 30 independent contractors when Fake joined in 1999. The host agency now has more than 600 advisors and a support staff of 26.
“Sharon has been the backbone of Travel Experts for 26 years, and for that, I’m beyond grateful,” said Susan Ferrell, Owner & President of Travel Experts, adding: “From the beginning, her commitment has extended not only to Travel Experts but also to the Virtuoso network.”
Ferrell noted: “It was Sharon who first suggested we apply for Virtuoso membership; which we did in 2000. Since then, she has made countless contributions to the Virtuoso community, always recognizing the tremendous value it brings to our independent contractors. I am thankful for Sharon, for her vision, dedication, and unwavering support.”
Sharon Fake said: “I am deeply touched and surprised by this honor that Virtuoso has bestowed on me. My respect for Matthew Upchurch and the entire team at Virtuoso is unparalleled. We, at Travel Experts, are always indebted to Virtuoso for their support of our advisors and now receiving this award only strengthens our commitment to Virtuoso’s luxury program.”
“Virtuoso Awards celebrate those who are shaping the future of luxury travel through integrity, outstanding service and unforgettable experiences,” said Virtuoso Chairman and CEO Matthew D. Upchurch. “These annual awards celebrate the exceptional members and partners who bring our shared purpose to life: enriching lives through human connection and the power of travel. Sharon Fake exemplifies the innovation, collaboration, and unwavering commitment that define our network, and she deserves to be recognized for her dedication that elevates the Virtuoso network and the industry as a whole.”
For more details on Virtuoso’s network of the world’s best travel agencies, advisors, and preferred partners, please visit www.Virtuoso.com.
SOURCE: Virtuoso press release.
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