The Vacation.com navigator monthly newsletters are now accessible and can be downloaded in PDF format from the Marketing Page (“Additional Documents & Links section”) in AgentNet.
Back issues begin with January 2006 and run through to the present (August 2006). Each month will have the current navigator newsletter description and include a link to download the PDF. Click here to access the current and back issues of the navigator
Learn How to Become A Travel Agent... Open your own Home Based Travel Agency
Thursday
Ski.com Pioneers New Resort Finder Website
Ski.com has launched a revamped website, http://www.ski.com/. Features include interactive 3D resort maps as well as interactive regional maps, the Ski.com Resort Finder, comprehensive resort and lodging property slide shows, revamped comparative snow reports, faster booking engine and an improved community area featuring a message board and blog giving skiers and snowboarders a forum to meet, share stories, ask questions and offer advice.
HomeBased Travel Agents can also access resort information by first identifying a region, the Western United States, Europe, South America, Canada or the Eastern United States, and then by getting more specific.
For example, clicking on the state of Colorado reveals all of the resorts in the state represented by Ski.com and allows the user to view resort details by simply clicking on the desired resort on the map. For skiers and snowboarders who do not know which resort is best for them, Ski.com's Resort Finder, a new tool, will help clear the path.
Home based travel agents8
use Resort Finder by ranking the importance of things like night life, shopping, cuisine, slope difficulty, snow conditions and family friendliness. The Resort Finder then returns immediate suggestions based on the user's rankings. For more information, visit http://www.ski.com/.
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HomeBased Travel Agents can also access resort information by first identifying a region, the Western United States, Europe, South America, Canada or the Eastern United States, and then by getting more specific.
For example, clicking on the state of Colorado reveals all of the resorts in the state represented by Ski.com and allows the user to view resort details by simply clicking on the desired resort on the map. For skiers and snowboarders who do not know which resort is best for them, Ski.com's Resort Finder, a new tool, will help clear the path.
Home based travel agents8
use Resort Finder by ranking the importance of things like night life, shopping, cuisine, slope difficulty, snow conditions and family friendliness. The Resort Finder then returns immediate suggestions based on the user's rankings. For more information, visit http://www.ski.com/.
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SuperClubs Launches Big Fall Sale
SuperClubs is offering discounts up to 50% on bookings by Sept. 7 (for travel Dec. 1-Jan. 15, 2007) at its resorts.
Participating properties include all Breezes Resorts (except Runaway Bay and Costa do Sauipe), Grand Lido Resorts & Spas, Hedonism Resorts, and Starfish Trelawny. Call 877.GO.SUPER or check www.superclubs.com.
Participating properties include all Breezes Resorts (except Runaway Bay and Costa do Sauipe), Grand Lido Resorts & Spas, Hedonism Resorts, and Starfish Trelawny. Call 877.GO.SUPER or check www.superclubs.com.
Wednesday
Apple Announces Trade Show and Seminar Schedules
Apple Vacations has announced dates for this year's WinterSun Home Based Travel Agent Trade Shows and Seminars. The annual Trade Show features up to 150 hoteliers from Mexico, the Caribbean, Hawaii and Europe at each trade show, providing opportunities for Home Based travel agents to learn about the destinations and resorts offered by Apple Vacations.
This will also be home based travel agents first opportunity to take home Apple Vacations 2007 WinterSun brochures for Mexico, the Caribbean and Hawaii.
The 2006 Trade Show schedule is: Mon., Sept. 11: Milwaukee - Country Springs Hotel; Tues., Sept. 12: Chicago - Drury Lane (Oak Brook, Ill.); Wed., Sept. 13: St. Louis - Hyatt Regency St. Louis; Mon., Sept. 18: Denver - Renaissance Denver Hotel; Tues., Sept. 19: Minneapolis - Crowne Plaza Minneapolis; Wed., Sept. 20: Detroit - Performing Arts Center (Dearborn, Mich.); Mon., Sept. 25: Newark - Sheraton Edison; Tues., Sept. 26: Portland - Double Tree Lloyd Center; Wed., Sept. 27: Seattle - Double Tree Airport Hotel; Wed., Sept. 27: Philadelphia - Citizens Bank Park; Thurs., Sept. 28: Baltimore - Martin's West; Mon., Oct. 9: Cleveland - Embassy Suites Rockside; and Thurs., Oct. 12: Pittsburgh - Sheraton Station Square.
Apple Vacations will also offer seminars in smaller, more intimate venues with a focus on educating travel agents about vacation destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean, Hawaii and Europe, including specific Apple Vacations product information. These events are limited to 30 to 50 agents per city, include a sit-down dinner and are conducted by Apple Vacations' regional sales managers and a select group of hotel and airline partners.
The 2006 Fall Seminar schedule is: Tues., Oct. 10: Columbus - Hyatt Regency Columbus; Wed., Oct. 11: Cincinnati - Hyatt Regency Cincinnati; Mon., Nov. 6: Hartford, Conn. - Hilton Garden Inn (Windsor, Conn.); Tues., Nov. 7: White Plains, N.Y. - Crown Plaza; Wed., Nov. 8: Brooklyn - El Caribe; and Thurs., Nov. 9: Long Island, N.Y. - Fox Hollow (Woodbury, N.Y.). Call 800-727-3400 or visit www.applevacations.com/power.
This will also be home based travel agents first opportunity to take home Apple Vacations 2007 WinterSun brochures for Mexico, the Caribbean and Hawaii.
The 2006 Trade Show schedule is: Mon., Sept. 11: Milwaukee - Country Springs Hotel; Tues., Sept. 12: Chicago - Drury Lane (Oak Brook, Ill.); Wed., Sept. 13: St. Louis - Hyatt Regency St. Louis; Mon., Sept. 18: Denver - Renaissance Denver Hotel; Tues., Sept. 19: Minneapolis - Crowne Plaza Minneapolis; Wed., Sept. 20: Detroit - Performing Arts Center (Dearborn, Mich.); Mon., Sept. 25: Newark - Sheraton Edison; Tues., Sept. 26: Portland - Double Tree Lloyd Center; Wed., Sept. 27: Seattle - Double Tree Airport Hotel; Wed., Sept. 27: Philadelphia - Citizens Bank Park; Thurs., Sept. 28: Baltimore - Martin's West; Mon., Oct. 9: Cleveland - Embassy Suites Rockside; and Thurs., Oct. 12: Pittsburgh - Sheraton Station Square.
Apple Vacations will also offer seminars in smaller, more intimate venues with a focus on educating travel agents about vacation destinations in Mexico, the Caribbean, Hawaii and Europe, including specific Apple Vacations product information. These events are limited to 30 to 50 agents per city, include a sit-down dinner and are conducted by Apple Vacations' regional sales managers and a select group of hotel and airline partners.
The 2006 Fall Seminar schedule is: Tues., Oct. 10: Columbus - Hyatt Regency Columbus; Wed., Oct. 11: Cincinnati - Hyatt Regency Cincinnati; Mon., Nov. 6: Hartford, Conn. - Hilton Garden Inn (Windsor, Conn.); Tues., Nov. 7: White Plains, N.Y. - Crown Plaza; Wed., Nov. 8: Brooklyn - El Caribe; and Thurs., Nov. 9: Long Island, N.Y. - Fox Hollow (Woodbury, N.Y.). Call 800-727-3400 or visit www.applevacations.com/power.
Trafalgar Promotes Programs for Family Travelers
Trafalgar is promoting its programs for family travelers. Trafalgar's "Young Traveler" offer allows parents or grandparents who bring children between 5 and 17 years of age, to receive a 10 percent discount on the land portion of their tour.
A sample of family friendly travel packages would include the 11-day "Footprints of the Southwest" which visits Nevada, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico on a journey that combines the relaxed urban charm of cities such as Phoenix, Scottsdale, Albuquerque, Taos and Santa Fe with natural monuments such as the Petrified Forest, Mesa Verde and the Grand Canyon, and is priced from $1,810 per person double;
the seven-day "Canada's Rockies", which visits Calgary, Lake Louise, Jasper National Park and the Columbia Ice Fields is priced from $1,435 per person; the eight-day
"An English Christmas" uses London as a headquarters for daytrips to Bath, Stratford-Upon-Avon and Stonehenge on day trips through the countryside, and priced from $935.
Trafalgar also arranges personalized tours for families and other groups. With Trafalgar's "Travel with Friends," groups of five or more will receive significant savings. Trafalgar's packages include accommodations; breakfast daily plus many other meals; sightseeing; luxury touring on modern coaches and the services of a tour director. For more information, call 800-854-0103 or visit www.trafalgar.com.
A sample of family friendly travel packages would include the 11-day "Footprints of the Southwest" which visits Nevada, Arizona, Colorado and New Mexico on a journey that combines the relaxed urban charm of cities such as Phoenix, Scottsdale, Albuquerque, Taos and Santa Fe with natural monuments such as the Petrified Forest, Mesa Verde and the Grand Canyon, and is priced from $1,810 per person double;
the seven-day "Canada's Rockies", which visits Calgary, Lake Louise, Jasper National Park and the Columbia Ice Fields is priced from $1,435 per person; the eight-day
"An English Christmas" uses London as a headquarters for daytrips to Bath, Stratford-Upon-Avon and Stonehenge on day trips through the countryside, and priced from $935.
Trafalgar also arranges personalized tours for families and other groups. With Trafalgar's "Travel with Friends," groups of five or more will receive significant savings. Trafalgar's packages include accommodations; breakfast daily plus many other meals; sightseeing; luxury touring on modern coaches and the services of a tour director. For more information, call 800-854-0103 or visit www.trafalgar.com.
Barceló Hotels Set Agent Rates at Mexico Properties
Barceló Hotels & Resorts is offering certified travel agents the opportunity to experience any of its nine Mexican all-inclusive resort hotels at special industry savings available now through Dec. 15, 2006.
Choose from any of the four hotels at the Barceló Maya Beach Resort in Riviera Maya; the newly renovated Barceló Tucancun Beach Hotel in Cancun; the Barceló La Jolla de Mismaloya Hotel in Puerto Vallarta; the Barceló Karmina Palace Hotel in Manzanillo; The Barceló Huatulco Beach Hotel; or the Barceló Ixtapa Beach Hotel.
These special travel industry rates are only for certified travel agents and are per person based on double occupancy and subject to availability. All rates are all-inclusive and include accommodations, food and house beverages, daily and evening entertainment, as well as taxes and gratuities. Rates start at $44 per person. For more information, call 800-BARCELO or visit www.barcelo.com.
Choose from any of the four hotels at the Barceló Maya Beach Resort in Riviera Maya; the newly renovated Barceló Tucancun Beach Hotel in Cancun; the Barceló La Jolla de Mismaloya Hotel in Puerto Vallarta; the Barceló Karmina Palace Hotel in Manzanillo; The Barceló Huatulco Beach Hotel; or the Barceló Ixtapa Beach Hotel.
These special travel industry rates are only for certified travel agents and are per person based on double occupancy and subject to availability. All rates are all-inclusive and include accommodations, food and house beverages, daily and evening entertainment, as well as taxes and gratuities. Rates start at $44 per person. For more information, call 800-BARCELO or visit www.barcelo.com.
Tuesday
Seabourn and Silversea Top Luxury Cruise Lines
The 2006 Luxury Brand Status Index survey rates Seabourn Cruise Line as the most prestigious cruise line, followed closely by Silversea Cruises and last year's winner, Lindblad Expeditions.
Crystal Cruises rounds out the A List of luxury cruise lines. Regent Seven Seas Cruises also moved up in the rankings of the survey, which was conducted by the Luxury Institute.
Seabourn received the strongest ratings in delivering consistently superior quality and was rated the cruise line "most used by people who are admired and respected" by wealthy consumers.
Silversea nearly matched Seabourn in uniqueness and exclusivity scores and in making the customer "feel special across the entire customer experience." The high net worth customers rated Seabourn and Silversea as "worthy of a significant price premium."
"We live in a transparent world where the only expert opinions that count are those of consumers, not pundits or reviewers," said Milton Pedraza, CEO of the Luxury Institute. A nationally representative sample of 1,000 wealthy consumers was surveyed online. Respondents had an average household income of $616,000 and average net worth of $3.8 million.
Survey results are weighted to match the demographic and net worth profile of the same audience according to the latest Survey of Consumer Finances from the Federal Reserve. For more information, call 646-792-2669 or visit www.luxuryinstitute.com.
Crystal Cruises rounds out the A List of luxury cruise lines. Regent Seven Seas Cruises also moved up in the rankings of the survey, which was conducted by the Luxury Institute.
Seabourn received the strongest ratings in delivering consistently superior quality and was rated the cruise line "most used by people who are admired and respected" by wealthy consumers.
Silversea nearly matched Seabourn in uniqueness and exclusivity scores and in making the customer "feel special across the entire customer experience." The high net worth customers rated Seabourn and Silversea as "worthy of a significant price premium."
"We live in a transparent world where the only expert opinions that count are those of consumers, not pundits or reviewers," said Milton Pedraza, CEO of the Luxury Institute. A nationally representative sample of 1,000 wealthy consumers was surveyed online. Respondents had an average household income of $616,000 and average net worth of $3.8 million.
Survey results are weighted to match the demographic and net worth profile of the same audience according to the latest Survey of Consumer Finances from the Federal Reserve. For more information, call 646-792-2669 or visit www.luxuryinstitute.com.
Why sell Travel Guard
“911” Emergency Travel Assistance
1. We will help locate your lost delayed luggage; plus, we’ll or reimburse you for the necessities you have to purchase until yourbaggage arrives.
2. We will reimburse your nonrefundable deposits and get you home if your cruise line, airline, or tour operator goes bankrupt.
3. We will cover your lost expenses when you’re forced to cancel your trip because a terrorist incident just occurred in the city to which you’re scheduled to travel within 30 days of your scheduled arrival.
4. We will get your family home when you arrive at the airport at 10 p.m. only to find your flight is cancelled.
5. We can arrange for an emergency cash advance and help you obtain a new passport when
your important travel documents are stolen.
6. We will coordinate an emergency medicalevacuation and find adequate medical care when you are involved in an accident or become suddenly ill.
7. We will replace the medication that was in your lost luggage.*
*Subject to terms and conditions of the policy.
Visit www.travelguard.com to protect your investments today!
1. We will help locate your lost delayed luggage; plus, we’ll or reimburse you for the necessities you have to purchase until yourbaggage arrives.
2. We will reimburse your nonrefundable deposits and get you home if your cruise line, airline, or tour operator goes bankrupt.
3. We will cover your lost expenses when you’re forced to cancel your trip because a terrorist incident just occurred in the city to which you’re scheduled to travel within 30 days of your scheduled arrival.
4. We will get your family home when you arrive at the airport at 10 p.m. only to find your flight is cancelled.
5. We can arrange for an emergency cash advance and help you obtain a new passport when
your important travel documents are stolen.
6. We will coordinate an emergency medicalevacuation and find adequate medical care when you are involved in an accident or become suddenly ill.
7. We will replace the medication that was in your lost luggage.*
*Subject to terms and conditions of the policy.
Visit www.travelguard.com to protect your investments today!
Wednesday
WE’RE PLEASED TO ANNOUNCED A NEW EDUCATION AND TRAINING WEBSITE FOR VACATION.COM MEMBERS
The Education and Training team is pleased to announce the launch of the new Education and Training website for Vacation.com Members - the Agent Advancement Center (AAC).
The Agent Advancement Center (AAC) houses all the information you need to support your professional development and continuing education goals. From here you can register for hands-on training classes at the Vacation.com Learning Center, schedule and view both live and recorded WebEx lessons, obtain information on our Personal Trainer Program, view upcoming regional training events, access our Reference Library and much more.
Click here to access the AAC or, from AgentNet, go to the Training Page and click on the Agent Advancement Center link.
The Agent Advancement Center (AAC) houses all the information you need to support your professional development and continuing education goals. From here you can register for hands-on training classes at the Vacation.com Learning Center, schedule and view both live and recorded WebEx lessons, obtain information on our Personal Trainer Program, view upcoming regional training events, access our Reference Library and much more.
Click here to access the AAC or, from AgentNet, go to the Training Page and click on the Agent Advancement Center link.
EDUCATION AND TRAINING
FALL REGIONAL EVENTS COMING TO SIX U.S. CITIES
You already know how to use the innovative, powerful tools that come with your FREE
Vacation.com membership when you are a member of HomeBased-TravelAgents - now let us show you how to put all the pieces together.
Catch the complimentary Knowledge is Power Tour, scheduled to arrive in Tampa, Orlando, Boston, San Diego, Seattle and Denver this Fall.
Click here for more details.
You already know how to use the innovative, powerful tools that come with your FREE
Vacation.com membership when you are a member of HomeBased-TravelAgents - now let us show you how to put all the pieces together.
Catch the complimentary Knowledge is Power Tour, scheduled to arrive in Tampa, Orlando, Boston, San Diego, Seattle and Denver this Fall.
Click here for more details.
$750 OFF PER CABIN 10-DAY GALAPAGOS ADVENTURE
10-DAY GALAPAGOS ADVENTURE ABOARD THE CELEBRITY XPEDITION, $750 OFF PER CABIN Cruise Fares Start at just $3,800 US per person before per cabin promotion.
Your clients will experience this intimate, luxurious cruise to 11 islands that are home to an astounding 1,900 species of plants and animals found nowhere else on earth. While resting from the island explorations, they will be invited to join their on-board Concierge Host and Guest Naturalist, Marylee Stephenson, for intimate lectures on this enchanting region.
In addition, guests will enjoy a host of complimentary amenities like the services of a Concierge Host and Bon Voyage Reception......this once in a lifetime adventure just got better!
Book any cabin on this departure, by September 30, 2006, and your clients will receive $750 off per cabin. An incredible value!
Terms and Conditions: Promotion applies for new bookings made after August 21, 2006 and deposited by September 1, 2006. Restrictions may apply. Commissions, sailing dates, prices and amenities, including exclusive shore events, are current at time of printing and are subject to change without notice. Guests must be booked in a featured group departure to receive amenities. Offers are subject to availability, at time of booking, and may be altered or withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing will be confirmed at time of booking. Cancellations, refunds, and penalties are imposed by the individual cruise lines. All changes or cancellations for reservations made through the CruiseCentre must be in writing to Vacation.com CruiseCentre.
Your clients will experience this intimate, luxurious cruise to 11 islands that are home to an astounding 1,900 species of plants and animals found nowhere else on earth. While resting from the island explorations, they will be invited to join their on-board Concierge Host and Guest Naturalist, Marylee Stephenson, for intimate lectures on this enchanting region.
In addition, guests will enjoy a host of complimentary amenities like the services of a Concierge Host and Bon Voyage Reception......this once in a lifetime adventure just got better!
Book any cabin on this departure, by September 30, 2006, and your clients will receive $750 off per cabin. An incredible value!
Terms and Conditions: Promotion applies for new bookings made after August 21, 2006 and deposited by September 1, 2006. Restrictions may apply. Commissions, sailing dates, prices and amenities, including exclusive shore events, are current at time of printing and are subject to change without notice. Guests must be booked in a featured group departure to receive amenities. Offers are subject to availability, at time of booking, and may be altered or withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing will be confirmed at time of booking. Cancellations, refunds, and penalties are imposed by the individual cruise lines. All changes or cancellations for reservations made through the CruiseCentre must be in writing to Vacation.com CruiseCentre.
VIKING RIVER CRUISES $1,000 OFF PER CABIN ON EUROPEAN CRUISES
Danube Explorer - 8 Days / 7 Nights from $1,099 Per PersonVienna to Nuremberg or reverse .
Your Holiday Cruise Includes All This:
8-Day/7-Night cruise cruise with river-view, outside cabin;
6 tours with English-speaking guides: Vienna; Linz; Passau;Melk/Benedictine abbey; Regensburg; Nuremberg;
All meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 7 dinners;
Welcome Cocktail Reception & Dinner;
Captain’s Farewell Dinner;
Private motor-coach for all coach excursions;
Old World Highlights®: Port lectures by your knowledgeable Cruise Manager, apple strudel making demonstration and Bavarian folkloric entertainment;
All port charges; Plus, low cost airfare is available.
Viking Europe: November 19, 26; December 3, 10.Viking Sky: November 21, 28; December 5, 12.
Imagine a European vacation visiting quaint towns rich in culture and villages that come alive with the bustling joy of the holiday season. You’ll experience the magic of age-old holiday traditions in the place where many originated...and if you book now, you’ll save up to $1,000 per cabin!
Terms and Conditions: Special discount offer valid on new bookings only as of August 1, 2006 and must be paid in full at time of booking. Not combinable with any other offer except Past Passenger Discount. Prices are per person, double occupancy and include port charges. Cruise fuel surcharges are additional and will be quoted at time of booking. See Terms and Conditions on our website. Viking River Cruises reserves the right to correct or revise any pricing or date errors throughout the season. Offer expires September 30, 2006.
Your Holiday Cruise Includes All This:
8-Day/7-Night cruise cruise with river-view, outside cabin;
6 tours with English-speaking guides: Vienna; Linz; Passau;Melk/Benedictine abbey; Regensburg; Nuremberg;
All meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 7 dinners;
Welcome Cocktail Reception & Dinner;
Captain’s Farewell Dinner;
Private motor-coach for all coach excursions;
Old World Highlights®: Port lectures by your knowledgeable Cruise Manager, apple strudel making demonstration and Bavarian folkloric entertainment;
All port charges; Plus, low cost airfare is available.
Viking Europe: November 19, 26; December 3, 10.Viking Sky: November 21, 28; December 5, 12.
Imagine a European vacation visiting quaint towns rich in culture and villages that come alive with the bustling joy of the holiday season. You’ll experience the magic of age-old holiday traditions in the place where many originated...and if you book now, you’ll save up to $1,000 per cabin!
Terms and Conditions: Special discount offer valid on new bookings only as of August 1, 2006 and must be paid in full at time of booking. Not combinable with any other offer except Past Passenger Discount. Prices are per person, double occupancy and include port charges. Cruise fuel surcharges are additional and will be quoted at time of booking. See Terms and Conditions on our website. Viking River Cruises reserves the right to correct or revise any pricing or date errors throughout the season. Offer expires September 30, 2006.
EUROPE ON WINDSTAR CRUISES – 7 DAYS FROM $1,999
Casual Elegance - 148 to 308 Guests - Open Seating Dining;Five Star Service and Cuisine - Cruising Unique and Intimate Ports of Call.
7- Day Wind Surf Sailings from $1,999ppBarcelona to Lisbon
• September 10 and November 5, 2006Ibiza, Palma de Mallorca, At Sea, Málaga, Tangier
Rome to Nice • October 1 and 15, 2006Porto-Vecchio, Portoferrio, Livorno, Portofino, Monte Carlo Nice to Rome
• October 8 and 22, 2006St. Tropez, St. Florent, At Sea, Ponza, Amalfi, Sorrento, Capri
Rome to Barcelona
• October 29, 2006Portoferraio, Portofino, Monte Carlo, St.Tropez Marseille, Séte
7- Day Wind Spirit Sailings from $2,249ppAthens to Rome
• October 28, 2006Ermoúpolis, Návplion, Gythion, Messina, Capri
Rome to Barcelona
• November 4, 2006Portoferrio, Portofino, Monte Carlo, Nice, Marseille, Port-VendresBarcelona to Lisbon
• November 11, 2006Palma de Mallorca, Ibiza, Málaga, Tangier, Portimao
7- day Day Wind Star Sailings from $2,249ppRome to Barcelona
• October 28, 2006Portoferrio, Portofino, Monte Carlo, Nice, MarseiIlle, Port-Vendres
Barcelona to Lisbon • November 4, 2006Palma de Mallorca, Ibiza, Málaga, Tangier, Portimao
Sign Up For eSail At www.windstarcruises.com/esail and receive Great Values via email.
7- Day Wind Surf Sailings from $1,999ppBarcelona to Lisbon
• September 10 and November 5, 2006Ibiza, Palma de Mallorca, At Sea, Málaga, Tangier
Rome to Nice • October 1 and 15, 2006Porto-Vecchio, Portoferrio, Livorno, Portofino, Monte Carlo Nice to Rome
• October 8 and 22, 2006St. Tropez, St. Florent, At Sea, Ponza, Amalfi, Sorrento, Capri
Rome to Barcelona
• October 29, 2006Portoferraio, Portofino, Monte Carlo, St.Tropez Marseille, Séte
7- Day Wind Spirit Sailings from $2,249ppAthens to Rome
• October 28, 2006Ermoúpolis, Návplion, Gythion, Messina, Capri
Rome to Barcelona
• November 4, 2006Portoferrio, Portofino, Monte Carlo, Nice, Marseille, Port-VendresBarcelona to Lisbon
• November 11, 2006Palma de Mallorca, Ibiza, Málaga, Tangier, Portimao
7- day Day Wind Star Sailings from $2,249ppRome to Barcelona
• October 28, 2006Portoferrio, Portofino, Monte Carlo, Nice, MarseiIlle, Port-Vendres
Barcelona to Lisbon • November 4, 2006Palma de Mallorca, Ibiza, Málaga, Tangier, Portimao
Sign Up For eSail At www.windstarcruises.com/esail and receive Great Values via email.
Got a Specialty??
If not, why not turn your passion into profitability by earning a specialist designation from The Travel Institute. Your knack for creating the perfect Honeymoon or the ultimate Ski vacation are great ways of making a name for yourself.And, during the month of August, all Lifestyle Specialist courses in PDF format are 25% off!
Look at all the niche markets you have to choose from!
Accessible Travel
Adventure Travel
Gay and Lesbian Travel
Golf
Honeymoons and Destination Weddings
Luxury Travel
Skiing
Spas
Plus, during the month of August each of the above courses are 25% off - $59 instead of $79*.
And, when you enroll, you will also receive a FREE PDF of Selling Special Interest Travel ($40 value) and a $20 Thank You Voucher to be used toward any Destination Specialist course.
Enroll by August 31 to receive any Lifestyle Specialist course at the special price of $59.A specialist designation from The Travel Institute demonstrates to your customers that you have the expertise to create that memorable experience.
Look at all the niche markets you have to choose from!
Accessible Travel
Adventure Travel
Gay and Lesbian Travel
Golf
Honeymoons and Destination Weddings
Luxury Travel
Skiing
Spas
Plus, during the month of August each of the above courses are 25% off - $59 instead of $79*.
And, when you enroll, you will also receive a FREE PDF of Selling Special Interest Travel ($40 value) and a $20 Thank You Voucher to be used toward any Destination Specialist course.
Enroll by August 31 to receive any Lifestyle Specialist course at the special price of $59.A specialist designation from The Travel Institute demonstrates to your customers that you have the expertise to create that memorable experience.
Tuesday
earn $50 bonus commission
Book an Ocean View or above stateroom on any 7 Night or longer 2006 Celebrity departure, between now and September 18th and earn $50 bonus commission!
PLUSFor every booking created, Agent's name will be placed in drawing for a chance to win a 2007 Celebrity Cruise for Two.
Click here for the tracking form.
PLUSFor every booking created, Agent's name will be placed in drawing for a chance to win a 2007 Celebrity Cruise for Two.
Click here for the tracking form.
Free Training Courses!
Use your computer and telephone together and attend these unique training sessions right from your home. Enroll Now! Space is Limited.Courses are scheduled for 60 minutes. Click here for complete listing of all Current and Upcoming seminars.
Introduction to AgentNet:This class is a 60-minute overview of the basic navigation and functionality of AgentNet. The content is targeted to Vacation.com's newest members, and for those members who may have been with Vacation.com for quite a while but want a refresher on the basics of what AgentNet has to offer.
Sign Up for one of the following classesNo password is needed for registration, but pre-registration is required and class size is limited to twenty.
Introduction to AgentNet:This class is a 60-minute overview of the basic navigation and functionality of AgentNet. The content is targeted to Vacation.com's newest members, and for those members who may have been with Vacation.com for quite a while but want a refresher on the basics of what AgentNet has to offer.
Sign Up for one of the following classesNo password is needed for registration, but pre-registration is required and class size is limited to twenty.
CCRA
On August 12th, we changed the name of the CCRA booking portal to www.CCRAtravel.com. Our new portal name more accurately reflects our relationship to the travel industry and you! This should not affect your current username or password. If you have the old CCRA International portal bookmarked, you'll automatically be re-directed to the new url without any effort required on your part. Vacation.com agents can continue to access the CCRA portal through AgentNet.com.
At the same time that we're changing our url, we're also upgrading our IT network and adding some more functionality to the CCRA portal.
At the same time that we're changing our url, we're also upgrading our IT network and adding some more functionality to the CCRA portal.
Saturday
CSA Enhances Insurance Products
Beginning September 5, 2006, we're simplifying our product line by offering only the Freestyle and Freestyle Luxe plans.
These newly enhanced versions of Freestyle and Freestyle Luxe address what we've heard with overwhelming frequency from partners and customers:
There are too many choices in travel insurance; You can't always tell the difference between products or when to choose one over the other; and you don't have time to learn the difference. CSA understands that you just want solid protection for your customers at a fair price - backed by excellent customer service, claims handling, partner support, and the assurance that we'll be present and prepared whenever we're needed.
For all those reasons, Freestyle, our core product, is by far our most popular plan for the value-driven consumer. We are confident this simplified product offering will help avoid confusion, ensure your clients are paying a fair price, and enable you to sell more successfully. Why are we so confident? Because the best features of CSA's travel protection are still included:
Your clients will still have the opportunity to purchase a pre-existing condition waiver. This is available anytime from initial deposit all the way to final payment with our upgrade plan - Freestyle Luxe.
Our industry one-of-a-kind pricing engine takes multiple factors of the trip into consideration to provide the most accurate, customized price for your client, ensuring no customer subsidizes another.
There is no reduction in commission for phone, mail, or in-fact, ANY kind of order. You'll get credit for the sale - even if your clients call or visit us on the web directly.
You and your clients will receive CSA's signature: personalized attention and care.
Plus, these significant extras round out our newly enhanced plans:
Full concierge services are available on both the Freestyle and Freestyle Luxe plans; Coverage for Extensions of Military Service and Extension of School Year are available in both plans and applicable to most states.
You have the ability to save and e-mail quotes to your customers that lock in rates for 14 days.
You're backed by a newly developed 9-point CSA Customer Pledge, which reinforces our customer commitment.
Your specific needs can be addressed by a dedicated CSA Partner Phone Line staffed with trained, responsive professionals.
CSA's Comfort and Luxe plans will continue to be available for policies purchased through September 4, 2006. Beginning September 5, 2006, all new policies purchased will be based on the newly enhanced Freestyle Plan with its customized pricing. Your clients will be charged the lower or higher price, based on their specific trip parameters.
An updated, new-look Freestyle consumer brochure will be available at the end of August. You will be notified via e-mail when a new brochure is available and any orders will be fulfilled with this new collateral.
This correspondence is accompanied by Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the newly enhanced versions of Freestyle and Freestyle Luxe. Shortly, via regular mail, you should also receive hard copy versions of an announcement letter and these same FAQs. Please share this information with your staff and outside agents. As always, please feel free to call your dedicated CSA Account Manager at 888-470-9123 if we can help in any way.
These newly enhanced versions of Freestyle and Freestyle Luxe address what we've heard with overwhelming frequency from partners and customers:
There are too many choices in travel insurance; You can't always tell the difference between products or when to choose one over the other; and you don't have time to learn the difference. CSA understands that you just want solid protection for your customers at a fair price - backed by excellent customer service, claims handling, partner support, and the assurance that we'll be present and prepared whenever we're needed.
For all those reasons, Freestyle, our core product, is by far our most popular plan for the value-driven consumer. We are confident this simplified product offering will help avoid confusion, ensure your clients are paying a fair price, and enable you to sell more successfully. Why are we so confident? Because the best features of CSA's travel protection are still included:
Your clients will still have the opportunity to purchase a pre-existing condition waiver. This is available anytime from initial deposit all the way to final payment with our upgrade plan - Freestyle Luxe.
Our industry one-of-a-kind pricing engine takes multiple factors of the trip into consideration to provide the most accurate, customized price for your client, ensuring no customer subsidizes another.
There is no reduction in commission for phone, mail, or in-fact, ANY kind of order. You'll get credit for the sale - even if your clients call or visit us on the web directly.
You and your clients will receive CSA's signature: personalized attention and care.
Plus, these significant extras round out our newly enhanced plans:
Full concierge services are available on both the Freestyle and Freestyle Luxe plans; Coverage for Extensions of Military Service and Extension of School Year are available in both plans and applicable to most states.
You have the ability to save and e-mail quotes to your customers that lock in rates for 14 days.
You're backed by a newly developed 9-point CSA Customer Pledge, which reinforces our customer commitment.
Your specific needs can be addressed by a dedicated CSA Partner Phone Line staffed with trained, responsive professionals.
CSA's Comfort and Luxe plans will continue to be available for policies purchased through September 4, 2006. Beginning September 5, 2006, all new policies purchased will be based on the newly enhanced Freestyle Plan with its customized pricing. Your clients will be charged the lower or higher price, based on their specific trip parameters.
An updated, new-look Freestyle consumer brochure will be available at the end of August. You will be notified via e-mail when a new brochure is available and any orders will be fulfilled with this new collateral.
This correspondence is accompanied by Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the newly enhanced versions of Freestyle and Freestyle Luxe. Shortly, via regular mail, you should also receive hard copy versions of an announcement letter and these same FAQs. Please share this information with your staff and outside agents. As always, please feel free to call your dedicated CSA Account Manager at 888-470-9123 if we can help in any way.
Friday
Air France Offers Bargain Paris Packages
Air France Holidays' "Presenting Paris" fall package is priced for travel in September from $749. The six-night package includes roundtrip air on Air France, hotels, Bateaux Mouches River Cruise, Paris city map, continental breakfast daily, hotel taxes and service charges.
The package is priced per person double with departures from Boston, New York (JFK), and Newark. Additional gateways are available including Washington, D.C. (add $60) Philadelphia (add $80); Chicago (add $110); Detroit ($120); Atlanta and Miami (add $150); Houston (add $190); Los Angeles and San Francisco (add $200); and Seattle (add $220). The package is valid Sept. 7-Oct. 31 from $749; Nov. 1-Dec. 15; Jan. 4-March 25, 2007 from $639; Dec. 16-24 from $679; and Dec. 25-Jan. 3, 2007 from $669. Call 800-2-FRANCE (800-237-2623) Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Pacific Time) or visit www.airfranceholidays.com.
The package is priced per person double with departures from Boston, New York (JFK), and Newark. Additional gateways are available including Washington, D.C. (add $60) Philadelphia (add $80); Chicago (add $110); Detroit ($120); Atlanta and Miami (add $150); Houston (add $190); Los Angeles and San Francisco (add $200); and Seattle (add $220). The package is valid Sept. 7-Oct. 31 from $749; Nov. 1-Dec. 15; Jan. 4-March 25, 2007 from $639; Dec. 16-24 from $679; and Dec. 25-Jan. 3, 2007 from $669. Call 800-2-FRANCE (800-237-2623) Monday through Friday, 6 a.m. to 5 p.m. (Pacific Time) or visit www.airfranceholidays.com.
Sandals Features $59 Companion Air to St. Lucia
Sandals Resorts has made travel to St. Lucia even more affordable this winter with a special $59 companion airfare deal available on all seven-night stays or more to any Sandals resort in St. Lucia when booked between Sept. 7 and Nov. 22, 2006.
This offer is valid for round-trip, economy-class travel on Air Jamaica from JFK to St. Lucia on Thursdays, Sundays and Mondays from the time of booking through Feb. 11, 2007. Certain restrictions and blackout periods apply. This offer may be combined with other consumer savings promotions. For more information or reservations, call 800-SANDALS or visit www.sandals.com.
This offer is valid for round-trip, economy-class travel on Air Jamaica from JFK to St. Lucia on Thursdays, Sundays and Mondays from the time of booking through Feb. 11, 2007. Certain restrictions and blackout periods apply. This offer may be combined with other consumer savings promotions. For more information or reservations, call 800-SANDALS or visit www.sandals.com.
Disney Unveils New Vacation Packages for 2007
The complete collection of 2007 Walt Disney World Resort vacation packages is now available for booking through the Walt Disney Travel Company. Next year's product includes new exclusives and enhancements ranging from a package with special features such as watercraft rentals to the ultimate in Disney pampering.
For 2007, the-all-inclusive Disney's Magic Your Way Platinum Package is now available exclusively through the Walt Disney Travel Company. The package includes all of the components in the Premium Package such as Disney Dining and unlimited recreational activities, plus deluxe accommodations, additional dining options, spa treatments, a special keepsake, a fireworks cruise, private in-room child care, reserved seating at the Fantasmic! show at the Disney-MGM Studios and more.
Packages are available starting at $1,177 per adult, $863 per junior and $519 per child for a three-night stay during value season at a select deluxe resort. Disney's Magic Your Way Package includes new enhancements for 2007 including certificates to Disney's Miniature Golf, Sea Raycer watercraft rentals, Planet Hollywood meals and non-alcoholic beverages, and Disney's PhotoPass Service.
Accommodations are now available for up to 14 nights on all Disney's Magic Your Way packages. The Disney's Magic Your Way Package Plus Dining, offering clients a savings of up to 40 percent per person on dining, is available again for 2007.
Other special benefits include a commemorative luggage tag and the "Must See, Must Do, How To" Guide to help clients best maximize their Disney vacation. Home based travel agents should call 800-327-2996 for more information or visit http://www.disneytravelagents.com/.
,
For 2007, the-all-inclusive Disney's Magic Your Way Platinum Package is now available exclusively through the Walt Disney Travel Company. The package includes all of the components in the Premium Package such as Disney Dining and unlimited recreational activities, plus deluxe accommodations, additional dining options, spa treatments, a special keepsake, a fireworks cruise, private in-room child care, reserved seating at the Fantasmic! show at the Disney-MGM Studios and more.
Packages are available starting at $1,177 per adult, $863 per junior and $519 per child for a three-night stay during value season at a select deluxe resort. Disney's Magic Your Way Package includes new enhancements for 2007 including certificates to Disney's Miniature Golf, Sea Raycer watercraft rentals, Planet Hollywood meals and non-alcoholic beverages, and Disney's PhotoPass Service.
Accommodations are now available for up to 14 nights on all Disney's Magic Your Way packages. The Disney's Magic Your Way Package Plus Dining, offering clients a savings of up to 40 percent per person on dining, is available again for 2007.
Other special benefits include a commemorative luggage tag and the "Must See, Must Do, How To" Guide to help clients best maximize their Disney vacation. Home based travel agents should call 800-327-2996 for more information or visit http://www.disneytravelagents.com/.
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Thursday
Golfpac Offers Agents Handbook to Book Golf Trips
Golfpac Inc. is launching a new campaign to reach out to home based travel agents to help them tap into the $26 billion spent on golf travel.
Many experts expect this number to grow as baby boomers retire, and as interest continues to increase in young golfers such as Tiger Woods and Michelle Wie. "Our 30 years of experience in the golf travel business has shown us that many travel agents shy away from this niche because they were uncomfortable booking golf," said Steve Fouts, director of agency development at Golfpac. "Golfpac is renewing its commitment to home based travel agents by returning to the basics and educating them on the golf travel business."
The group has created a new Travel Agents Handbook designed to take the mystery out of booking golf travel. In addition to the new publication, Golfpac's trained and knowledgeable staff is available to take travel agent calls (during normal business hours) to assist in all phases of arranging domestic and international golf vacations. Golfpac's in-house IT staff maintains an up-to-date website at http://www.golfpactravel.com/ to give home based travel agents the necessary tools and systems to sell and book golf vacations.
Golfpac travel representatives have visited the 250 properties and 600 golf courses they represent so agents can feel confident in the services their clients will receive. Golfpac also asks each course to supply a maintenance schedule so rounds will not be scheduled when conditions are not optimum. To receive the Agents Handbook and learn more about the Golfpac Travel Agent program, travel agents can call Steve Fouts at 888-848-8941, visit http://www.golfpactravel.com/
Many experts expect this number to grow as baby boomers retire, and as interest continues to increase in young golfers such as Tiger Woods and Michelle Wie. "Our 30 years of experience in the golf travel business has shown us that many travel agents shy away from this niche because they were uncomfortable booking golf," said Steve Fouts, director of agency development at Golfpac. "Golfpac is renewing its commitment to home based travel agents by returning to the basics and educating them on the golf travel business."
The group has created a new Travel Agents Handbook designed to take the mystery out of booking golf travel. In addition to the new publication, Golfpac's trained and knowledgeable staff is available to take travel agent calls (during normal business hours) to assist in all phases of arranging domestic and international golf vacations. Golfpac's in-house IT staff maintains an up-to-date website at http://www.golfpactravel.com/ to give home based travel agents the necessary tools and systems to sell and book golf vacations.
Golfpac travel representatives have visited the 250 properties and 600 golf courses they represent so agents can feel confident in the services their clients will receive. Golfpac also asks each course to supply a maintenance schedule so rounds will not be scheduled when conditions are not optimum. To receive the Agents Handbook and learn more about the Golfpac Travel Agent program, travel agents can call Steve Fouts at 888-848-8941, visit http://www.golfpactravel.com/
Wednesday
New Holiday Gift for Agents to give to Clients
Carnival Cruise Lines has created a high-impact direct mail package that can be sent by home based travel agents to their clients, encouraging them to purchase "Fun Ship" cruises as holiday gifts.
The promotional piece, which can be ordered by travel agents via Carnival's travel agent website, is designed to resemble a wrapped holiday gift. The package includes a musical greeting card that plays Carnival's signature song, "Beyond the Sea," along with a new DVD highlighting a Carnival vacation and a personalized note from the travel agency touting the benefits of purchasing "Fun Ship" cruises as gifts.
The new campaign is designed in a turn-key style–after they receive the packages, travel agents simply readdress the gift boxes and mail them to their client list. This year's holiday gift box campaign will be promoted to travel agents by Carnival's business development managers.
The holiday gift-giving concept will also be incorporated into a variety of collateral materials, including posters, post cards, and ad slicks which will be available in early fall. Travel agents must request the holiday promotional packages by Sept. 15 to provide adequate time to mail to their clients prior to the start of the holiday season. Quantities are limited. For more information on the promotion, visit Carnival's agent website at www.bookccl.com.
The promotional piece, which can be ordered by travel agents via Carnival's travel agent website, is designed to resemble a wrapped holiday gift. The package includes a musical greeting card that plays Carnival's signature song, "Beyond the Sea," along with a new DVD highlighting a Carnival vacation and a personalized note from the travel agency touting the benefits of purchasing "Fun Ship" cruises as gifts.
The new campaign is designed in a turn-key style–after they receive the packages, travel agents simply readdress the gift boxes and mail them to their client list. This year's holiday gift box campaign will be promoted to travel agents by Carnival's business development managers.
The holiday gift-giving concept will also be incorporated into a variety of collateral materials, including posters, post cards, and ad slicks which will be available in early fall. Travel agents must request the holiday promotional packages by Sept. 15 to provide adequate time to mail to their clients prior to the start of the holiday season. Quantities are limited. For more information on the promotion, visit Carnival's agent website at www.bookccl.com.
Tuesday
Apple Fall Sale
Apple Vacations is offering bargain prices on fall vacations all month long during the Hawaiipalooza sale. Clients that book any air/land package to Hawaii throughout August will receive value added extras like a free rental car, two-for-one excursions, lei greeting and a $50 Hilo Hattie gift card.
Five nights at Royal Kona Resort start from $649 including roundtrip air from San Francisco, a Hertz rental car with unlimited mileage and a $100 resort credit. Eight nights at ResortQuest Kauai Beach Makaiwa are priced from $1,229 including roundtrip air from Chicago, a Hertz rental car with unlimited mileage, a $75 dining credit, 2 for 1 luau, and kids stay, play and eat free. For more information, visit www.applevacations.com.
Five nights at Royal Kona Resort start from $649 including roundtrip air from San Francisco, a Hertz rental car with unlimited mileage and a $100 resort credit. Eight nights at ResortQuest Kauai Beach Makaiwa are priced from $1,229 including roundtrip air from Chicago, a Hertz rental car with unlimited mileage, a $75 dining credit, 2 for 1 luau, and kids stay, play and eat free. For more information, visit www.applevacations.com.
Friday
Guidance for Airline Passengers
Source: Press Office - U.S. Department of Homeland Security
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has requested travel industry assistance with the dissemination of their Guidance for Airline Passengers. Travel professionals are asked to assist with the dissemination of the attached guidance information to your clients planning on traveling by air.
Homeland Security Travel Guidelines
If you are unable to open the above Homeland Security document, the same information may be collected from the Transportation Security Administration site at:
www.tsa.gov/press/happenings/threat-change-passenger_guidance.shtm
If you are unable to collect the information through either of the before mentioned means, please copy the text underneath.
GUIDANCE FOR AIRLINE PASSENGERS
Raised Threat Levels:
The U.S. threat level is raised to Severe, or Red, for all commercial flights flying from the United Kingdom to the U.S.
The U.S. threat level is raised to High, or Orange for all commercial aviation operating in the U.S., including international flights. Flights from the U.S. to the U.K. are also Orange.
Increased Aviation Screening Procedures:
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will be implementing a series of security measures - some visible and some not visible -- to ensure the security of the traveling public and the Nation's transportation system. TSA is immediately implementing following changes to airport screening procedures:
NO LIQUIDS OR GELS OF ANY KIND WILL BE PERMITTED IN CARRY ON BAGGAGE, SUCH ITEMS MUST BE IN CHECKED BAGGAGE.
This includes all beverages, shampoo, sun tan lotion, creams, tooth paste, hair gel, and other items of similar consistency.
Exception: Baby formula, breast milk, or juice if a baby or small child is traveling; prescription medicine with a name that matches the passenger's ticket; and insulin and essential other non-prescription medicines, which all must be presented for inspection at the checkpoint.
Beverages purchased in the boarding area (beyond the checkpoint) must be consumed before boarding because they will not be permitted on board the aircraft.
Passengers traveling from the U.K. to the U.S. will be subject to a more extensive screening process.
These measures will be constantly evaluated and updated when circumstances warrant.
How Every Passenger Can Assist in Security:
Pack lightly, without clutter to facilitate easier screening
Arrive earlier than usual at the airport
Cooperate with TSA personnel at checkpoints and with airline personnel at all gates
Be attentive and vigilant to any suspicious activity and report it to authorities
Increased Border Protection Procedures:
U.S. Customs and Border Protection will increase enforcement efforts in international arrival areas including the use of advanced targeting tools, special response teams including baggage and aircraft search teams, baggage x-ray equipment, specially-trained canine units, and explosive detection technology.
DHS has also mandated that all flights from the U.K. transmit passenger manifest information for intensive screening prior to departure from the gate. In addition, passengers on these flights and all other international flights will be subject to heightened inspection upon arrival in the U.S.
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has requested travel industry assistance with the dissemination of their Guidance for Airline Passengers. Travel professionals are asked to assist with the dissemination of the attached guidance information to your clients planning on traveling by air.
Homeland Security Travel Guidelines
If you are unable to open the above Homeland Security document, the same information may be collected from the Transportation Security Administration site at:
www.tsa.gov/press/happenings/threat-change-passenger_guidance.shtm
If you are unable to collect the information through either of the before mentioned means, please copy the text underneath.
GUIDANCE FOR AIRLINE PASSENGERS
Raised Threat Levels:
The U.S. threat level is raised to Severe, or Red, for all commercial flights flying from the United Kingdom to the U.S.
The U.S. threat level is raised to High, or Orange for all commercial aviation operating in the U.S., including international flights. Flights from the U.S. to the U.K. are also Orange.
Increased Aviation Screening Procedures:
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) will be implementing a series of security measures - some visible and some not visible -- to ensure the security of the traveling public and the Nation's transportation system. TSA is immediately implementing following changes to airport screening procedures:
NO LIQUIDS OR GELS OF ANY KIND WILL BE PERMITTED IN CARRY ON BAGGAGE, SUCH ITEMS MUST BE IN CHECKED BAGGAGE.
This includes all beverages, shampoo, sun tan lotion, creams, tooth paste, hair gel, and other items of similar consistency.
Exception: Baby formula, breast milk, or juice if a baby or small child is traveling; prescription medicine with a name that matches the passenger's ticket; and insulin and essential other non-prescription medicines, which all must be presented for inspection at the checkpoint.
Beverages purchased in the boarding area (beyond the checkpoint) must be consumed before boarding because they will not be permitted on board the aircraft.
Passengers traveling from the U.K. to the U.S. will be subject to a more extensive screening process.
These measures will be constantly evaluated and updated when circumstances warrant.
How Every Passenger Can Assist in Security:
Pack lightly, without clutter to facilitate easier screening
Arrive earlier than usual at the airport
Cooperate with TSA personnel at checkpoints and with airline personnel at all gates
Be attentive and vigilant to any suspicious activity and report it to authorities
Increased Border Protection Procedures:
U.S. Customs and Border Protection will increase enforcement efforts in international arrival areas including the use of advanced targeting tools, special response teams including baggage and aircraft search teams, baggage x-ray equipment, specially-trained canine units, and explosive detection technology.
DHS has also mandated that all flights from the U.K. transmit passenger manifest information for intensive screening prior to departure from the gate. In addition, passengers on these flights and all other international flights will be subject to heightened inspection upon arrival in the U.S.
Wednesday
Globus offers BONUS Commission
Earn $50 CASH BONUS on ANY Globus Product!!Receive a $50 bonus commission* per land & cruise booking of $3000 (land only) or more on any Globus Product.Globus Products include:
GLOBUS ESCORTED TOURS
COSMOS
BRENNAN
AVALON WATERWAYS
MONOGRAMS
Trips must be booked Aug 10 - August 31, 2006, for departures between June 15 - December 31, 2006. Must complete redemption form by August 31, 2006 for bonus commission offer. Open to U.S. members only.
GLOBUS ESCORTED TOURS
COSMOS
BRENNAN
AVALON WATERWAYS
MONOGRAMS
Trips must be booked Aug 10 - August 31, 2006, for departures between June 15 - December 31, 2006. Must complete redemption form by August 31, 2006 for bonus commission offer. Open to U.S. members only.
Tuesday
Religious Travel Symposium
Globus will host its second annual National Religious Travel Symposium this fall. The symposium will be held in four cities:
Chicago (Sept. 25),
Washington, D.C. (Sept. 29),
Dallas (Oct. 26)
Los Angeles (Nov. 16).
Paul Davis CEO of Home Based Travel Agents said "Religious Travel is a great idea for agents looking to grow there group business"
Agents can register for $199 per person (including the conference admission, one night's lodging, breakfast, lunch, and key resources), or $69 for everything but the lodging.
The resources include online materials such as sample letters that you can use to promote trips to local religious leaders, a copy of the Globus religious travel guidebook, PowerPoint presentations of religious tours, and a Religious Travel Business Plan template for travel agencies. For full details, call 800.851.0728, x 7094, or visit www.globusfaith.com/symposium.
Chicago (Sept. 25),
Washington, D.C. (Sept. 29),
Dallas (Oct. 26)
Los Angeles (Nov. 16).
Paul Davis CEO of Home Based Travel Agents said "Religious Travel is a great idea for agents looking to grow there group business"
Agents can register for $199 per person (including the conference admission, one night's lodging, breakfast, lunch, and key resources), or $69 for everything but the lodging.
The resources include online materials such as sample letters that you can use to promote trips to local religious leaders, a copy of the Globus religious travel guidebook, PowerPoint presentations of religious tours, and a Religious Travel Business Plan template for travel agencies. For full details, call 800.851.0728, x 7094, or visit www.globusfaith.com/symposium.
Monday
Disney Confirms 2006 Hurricane Guarantees
Disney Resorts just announced its 2006 hurricane cancellation policies that apply to many Disney bookings. If the National Hurricane Center issues an official hurricane warning for the Orlando region (or your clients’ place of residence) within seven days of any scheduled arrival date, you can re-schedule or cancel the Disney package without incurring any fees. You’ll find complete details at www.disneyworld.com (click on “Tropical Weather Policy” under the heading “Plan and Prepare”).
In fact, the National Weather Service recently recognized Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort as “StormReady” communities. They’re the only theme parks in the United States that have achieved this honor (which means they have set up an emergency operations center, developed a formal hazardous weather plan, and taken other steps such as emergency exercises to protect guests in a major storm).
In fact, the National Weather Service recently recognized Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort as “StormReady” communities. They’re the only theme parks in the United States that have achieved this honor (which means they have set up an emergency operations center, developed a formal hazardous weather plan, and taken other steps such as emergency exercises to protect guests in a major storm).
Sunday
Disney Cruise Line Announces New Offer
Disney Cruise Line Announces New Offer for Travel Agents to "Sail and Save"
You can sail for just $25 per person/per night as part of theTravel Agent Appreciation Program
Here's to you! As a special "thank you" for helping provide magical cruise vacations to your Clients, Disney Cruise Line would like to extend this opportunity for Travel Agents to save on upcoming 10- and 11-night sailings aboard the Disney Wonder.
Starting now, you can book the 10-night sailing on Sept. 7, 2006, for a special rate of $250 per person. The 11-night sailing on Sept. 17, 2006, is available for $275 per person. These rates are available for up to four people in your traveling party, and do not include taxes/fees or gratuities.
Call 1-800-511-1333 today and ask for booking code TAAM while space is still available! And thanks for everything you do to help make enchanting vacation dreams come true.
You can sail for just $25 per person/per night as part of theTravel Agent Appreciation Program
Here's to you! As a special "thank you" for helping provide magical cruise vacations to your Clients, Disney Cruise Line would like to extend this opportunity for Travel Agents to save on upcoming 10- and 11-night sailings aboard the Disney Wonder.
Starting now, you can book the 10-night sailing on Sept. 7, 2006, for a special rate of $250 per person. The 11-night sailing on Sept. 17, 2006, is available for $275 per person. These rates are available for up to four people in your traveling party, and do not include taxes/fees or gratuities.
Call 1-800-511-1333 today and ask for booking code TAAM while space is still available! And thanks for everything you do to help make enchanting vacation dreams come true.
Friday
Royal Caribbean Debuts Cruise Gift Certificates
Royal Caribbean unveiled a new gift certificate program this week. You can order certificates that will come via regular mail or email to give to clients for use toward any cruise or onboard service. The certificates come in $50, $100, $250, or $500 denominations. Check http://www.royalcaribbeancertificates.com/ for more information, or call 800.722.5970.
Thursday
Summer School for Travel Agents
Host agents of HomeBased-Travel Agents.com are invited to FREE Travel Agent training classes at the "Learning Center" this summer! Our hands-on classes offer you the opportunity for individualized training that is targeted to adult learners. Every class is small, hands-on and interactive — this is designed to assure you receive the requisite personal attention needed to maximize retention and help you apply what you learn to your business practices. These are full-day classes, so come prepared to learn!
Our summer schedule is as follows:
Monday, August 21: Cruising Concepts
Tuesday, August 22: AgentNet 101
Wednesday, August 23: VacationPort 201
Thursday, August 24: Print Marketing with MS Publisher
For more detailed information, including course descriptions and class registration forms, click here
Our summer schedule is as follows:
Monday, August 21: Cruising Concepts
Tuesday, August 22: AgentNet 101
Wednesday, August 23: VacationPort 201
Thursday, August 24: Print Marketing with MS Publisher
For more detailed information, including course descriptions and class registration forms, click here
Wednesday
Walt Disney World adds Suites
Walt Disney World adds “All-Star Family Suites” at the Disney All-Star Music Resort in Orlando. The resort took about 400 regular guestrooms and converted them into 214 suites that can accommodate up to six people.
The change resulted from requests from larger families that wanted to stay together instead of renting two separate rooms. Each suite contains a master bedroom, a kitchenette, two full bathrooms, two flat-screen TVs, high-speed Web access, and more. Check www.disneytravelagents.com for more information.
The change resulted from requests from larger families that wanted to stay together instead of renting two separate rooms. Each suite contains a master bedroom, a kitchenette, two full bathrooms, two flat-screen TVs, high-speed Web access, and more. Check www.disneytravelagents.com for more information.
Tuesday
Group Travel
NYCVP can help you earn money easily ... with a minimum of time and effort on your part!
Selling New York Made Easy:
Lesson One
Promote a New York City package using our pre-formed group dates during peak tourism season in New York. You'll find a huge market, and you'll find it very easy to attract sales!
The best part about promoting these special vacations is that there is no minimum number you have to guarantee, and a very small, affordable deposit is all that is necessary to hold space. Call our Group Department at 877 NYC-TRiP (touch 2) for more information.
US Open Tennis Tournament 2- or 3-night vacations over Labor Day Weekend
Thanksgiving and Macy's Parade 4-night vacations
Pre-Holiday Shopping Weekends 2- or 3-night vacations the first 3 weekends in December
Christmas Week vacations including the Radio City Christmas Spectacular
New Year's Eve 3-, 4- or 5-night vacations
2007 4th of July vacations
Remember, there is no minimum number so even if you only sell 1 traveler, the price will not change!
For even more information about Group Travel to New York click here, or call our Group Department at 877 NYC-TRiP (877 692-8747) -- touch 2 for groups.
Selling New York Made Easy:
Lesson One
Promote a New York City package using our pre-formed group dates during peak tourism season in New York. You'll find a huge market, and you'll find it very easy to attract sales!
The best part about promoting these special vacations is that there is no minimum number you have to guarantee, and a very small, affordable deposit is all that is necessary to hold space. Call our Group Department at 877 NYC-TRiP (touch 2) for more information.
US Open Tennis Tournament 2- or 3-night vacations over Labor Day Weekend
Thanksgiving and Macy's Parade 4-night vacations
Pre-Holiday Shopping Weekends 2- or 3-night vacations the first 3 weekends in December
Christmas Week vacations including the Radio City Christmas Spectacular
New Year's Eve 3-, 4- or 5-night vacations
2007 4th of July vacations
Remember, there is no minimum number so even if you only sell 1 traveler, the price will not change!
For even more information about Group Travel to New York click here, or call our Group Department at 877 NYC-TRiP (877 692-8747) -- touch 2 for groups.
Air Sale
Several airlines just announced sales from New York, Newark, White Plains, and other nearby airports.
Airfares have been expensive all year, so this is a great opportunity to plan travel in late summer and fall. But act fast, some sales must be booked within a week.
How to find the lowest fares:-
Travel from mid-August to early December.-
Try regional airports, such as Fort Lauderdale.-
Be flexible:
Try alternate dates if necessary, and avoid Fridays and Sundays.
Airfares have been expensive all year, so this is a great opportunity to plan travel in late summer and fall. But act fast, some sales must be booked within a week.
How to find the lowest fares:-
Travel from mid-August to early December.-
Try regional airports, such as Fort Lauderdale.-
Be flexible:
Try alternate dates if necessary, and avoid Fridays and Sundays.
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