As someone who has been on the above referenced list for several years I can confirm that a travel agent does not pay to be on the CNT list. It is based on genuine traveler feedback which CNT staff actively solicit. In turn CNT will reach out to the appropriate TA on the list for assistance/input when they are compiling a story and they feel their input would be useful to the article at hand. I cannot speak to some of the specific comments and experiences referenced earlier regarding trip planning but would encourage anyone to contact CNT with good or bad comments regarding anyone on the list as I believe that feedback is considered greatly.