VAX VacationAccess is introducing VAX VacationAccess Air Only
powered by G2 SwitchWorks. VAX VacationAccess Air Only allows agents guaranteed full content access to book air seats from the following airlines: Alaska Airlines, America West Airlines, American Airlines, Continental Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Northwest Airlines, United Airlines and US Airways.
Trisept Solutions added the air-only engine to VAX VacationAccess as a convenience tool that allows home based travel agents to shop across multiple airlines without leaving the VAX VacationAccess platform. The air-only booking engine is seamlessly integrated into VAX VacationAccess and does not require additional logins or passwords.
"Many of VAX VacationAccess' home based and independent agents asked us to add an air-only booking engine to the platform," said John Ische, president and CEO of Trisept Solutions. "We're glad to meet the need of this growing agency segment." VAX VacationAccess Air Only is the latest addition of several new booking engines to VAX VacationAccess.
Earlier this year, Trisept Solutions unveiled VAX VacationAccess Cruise, an engine that allows home based travel agents to book 10 cruise lines using a simple, five-step booking process. No special registration or ARC status is needed to use VAX VacationAccess Air Only. Agents can simply log into VAX VacationAccess and select Air Only from the Reservations drop down menu. For more information, visit http://www.vaxvacationaccess.com/
Learn How to Become A Travel Agent... Open your own Home Based Travel Agency
Saturday
Time Management Tips
By Phil and Doris Davidoff, CTCs, CTIEs, MCCs
Time is our most precious, and often least controllable resource. We cannot change the amount of time we have (there are only 24 hours in a day), but we can change how we use the time we have. Here are a few tips to make your use of time more effective:
Set Priorities. Every morning, make a list of all the things you want to accomplish and put them in priority order. Work on the first item until it is finished. When you are interrupted, handle the interruption, but then get right back to work on the item. That's the key. Everybody gets interrupted - but most people never make it back to what they were working on. At the end of the day, you won't have finished everything, but you'll have finished the most important things. Integrate what's left with whatever new tasks have developed, and make a new list the next day.
Start a "Tickler File." Take an expandable file folder or index card holder and put 31 file folders or index divider cards in it, numbered 1 to 31 for the days in the month. Put notes of what needs to be done on specific days in the proper file. Review the next day's notes before each day. At the start of each day, take out the items to be accomplished, integrate them into your priority list, and move the file folder or divider to the back of the pack.
Quick chores. Create a list of one- or two-minute chores that you can accomplish whenever you are put on hold. This "hold time" could add up to hours over time. These quick chores could include getting rid of old computer files; writing short memos; going through the mail; reading trade publications.
Set up a "Worry Hour." Norman Vincent Peale scheduled a "worry time," when he would get all his negative thoughts out of the way. The rest of the time, he wouldn't let them interfere with his positive approach to management. Any time you start to worry, jot down the concern on a pad, and make a mental note to deal with it at "worry hour." Most worries will solve themselves before you get to them.
Combine tasks. Every time you work on a task, ask yourself which aspects of the task could be applied to something else you do. For example, could the copy for an upcoming group promotion be edited to be used as part of a proposal to another group? Save time by re-using the material.
Free Home Based Travel Agent Magazine
Recommend is a home based travel agent's trusted source for destination and travelproduct information. It provides a monthly publication that is at no charge to you and is filledwith worldwide coverage, education and information that helps you expertlysell travel.
That's it - nothing else. It's easy to subscribe, just click on the link below or paste it in yourbrowser and fill out the short subscription form to qualify and you'll start receiving the magazine that some agents call their travel selling "bible."
http://www.recommend.com/ver3/html/main_add1aEmail.aspx
P.S. You can also subscribe to the no charge weekly e-bulletin, Recommend Weekly, on the online subscription form. If you're interested in getting a weekly email with current specials, fams and more product and destination information, please subscribe to that as well.
That's it - nothing else. It's easy to subscribe, just click on the link below or paste it in yourbrowser and fill out the short subscription form to qualify and you'll start receiving the magazine that some agents call their travel selling "bible."
http://www.recommend.com/ver3/html/main_add1aEmail.aspx
P.S. You can also subscribe to the no charge weekly e-bulletin, Recommend Weekly, on the online subscription form. If you're interested in getting a weekly email with current specials, fams and more product and destination information, please subscribe to that as well.
Thursday
Major impact of Woman and the Net
More than half of US Internet users are women and their choices have a major impact on the web. Women's choices in buying and planning vacations for the family, as well as pursuing their own interests, have a major impact on travel agents.
According to some researchers women have been the majority among US Internet users for a number of years. They now make up 51.6% of the US online population and nearly 100 million American women will be online by 2008.
So how do you do market to them? According to Paul Davis, President and CEO of http://www.homebasedtravelagents.org "The best way is to set up your own BLOG, on your favorite destination or subject. Blogs are FREE just wright about your subject and make it personal."
If you need help on making and marketing your blog, MR. Davis has a DVD and white paper report on how to make and market blogs successfully. Call 800-619-8646 and ask for a copy. The cost $19.95 and includes free shipping in the USA. "
For all home based travel agents, the rising influence of females online is something that can't be ignored. More and more women on the go, do their online shopping and buying on line. This is vitally important to home travel agents looking for clients. Agents MUST be on the net to obtain clients. " If you Focus on one destination or subject, for example (Adventure Family Vacations) or (Exploring China) it will bring you a lot more clients on the net than trying to be all thing to all people. The smaller the focus the bigger the reward. Said Mr. Davis
The data shows that more women are going online to find travel vacations for them selves and there families. One of the newest trends is girl friend vacations to spa destinations and shopping sprees in foreign countries.
According to some researchers women have been the majority among US Internet users for a number of years. They now make up 51.6% of the US online population and nearly 100 million American women will be online by 2008.
So how do you do market to them? According to Paul Davis, President and CEO of http://www.homebasedtravelagents.org "The best way is to set up your own BLOG, on your favorite destination or subject. Blogs are FREE just wright about your subject and make it personal."
If you need help on making and marketing your blog, MR. Davis has a DVD and white paper report on how to make and market blogs successfully. Call 800-619-8646 and ask for a copy. The cost $19.95 and includes free shipping in the USA. "
For all home based travel agents, the rising influence of females online is something that can't be ignored. More and more women on the go, do their online shopping and buying on line. This is vitally important to home travel agents looking for clients. Agents MUST be on the net to obtain clients. " If you Focus on one destination or subject, for example (Adventure Family Vacations) or (Exploring China) it will bring you a lot more clients on the net than trying to be all thing to all people. The smaller the focus the bigger the reward. Said Mr. Davis
The data shows that more women are going online to find travel vacations for them selves and there families. One of the newest trends is girl friend vacations to spa destinations and shopping sprees in foreign countries.
Nurturing Your Groups To Success
By Phil and Doris Davidoff, CTCs, CTIEs, MCCs
Why sell groups? As notorious bank robber, Willie Sutton, said when asked why he robs banks - "It's where the money is!"
While groups do not develop overnight, payoffs are solid. A group of 50 people on a one-week mass market cruise can produce commissions in excess of $7,000 - even if you have to give the tour conductors to the group.
Why sell groups? As notorious bank robber, Willie Sutton, said when asked why he robs banks - "It's where the money is!"
While groups do not develop overnight, payoffs are solid. A group of 50 people on a one-week mass market cruise can produce commissions in excess of $7,000 - even if you have to give the tour conductors to the group.
Some of the reasons why it pays to focus on groups for growing your business:
- High commissions (as noted above).
- Rates are locked in, usually at the lowest possible level.
- Successful groups create an annuity for future group and individual business.
- Group promotions can generate business during traditionally slower periods of the year.
- There are tremendous group opportunities, including family reunions, clubs of all kinds, celebrity hosts, corporate functions, incentive trips, theme groups and many more.
Here are some ideas for nurturing your groups so that they can develop to their full potential:
- Work together with representatives of the cruise line or tour operator as both organizations will benefit from success.
- Keep in contact with your group organizer, "pied piper," or anyone else who is helping you with your group.
- Be aware of where you are in relation to your goals and to the time line - the number of weeks or months before full deposits and final payments are due.
- If you are not on target, find out why. Work with your contacts to see what more can be done to convert prospects to bookings. Can adjustments be made?
- Even if you are on target, be sure to continue to contact your clients to show that you care about their business.
- Be sure to work with your sales representative and your supplier's group department. Plenty of assistance is available for the asking
Tuesday
Match The Cruise to the Client
By Phil and Doris Davidoff, CTCs, CTIEs, MCCs
It is exceedingly important to make sure that the cruise you are selling to a client or prospect will provide the activities (or lack of them) and lifestyle that your client is looking for. One of the great things about today’s cruise industry is that there is a cruise for everyone. Putting the wrong person on the wrong ship is, however, a disaster in the making.
It is exceedingly important to make sure that the cruise you are selling to a client or prospect will provide the activities (or lack of them) and lifestyle that your client is looking for. One of the great things about today’s cruise industry is that there is a cruise for everyone. Putting the wrong person on the wrong ship is, however, a disaster in the making.
Cruise ships range in size from Sea Dream and Windstar vessels carrying fewer than 150 passengers to Royal Caribbean’s mammoth Freedom of the Seas, which will soon carry more than 3,500 passengers, and in style from the bare-bones of EasyCruise (more of a ferry than a cruise ship) to the ultra- luxury of Regent Seven Seas, Seabourn and Silversea.
A recent column by Arthur Frommer in the travel section of our Sunday newspaper provides a very well-balanced view of the different lifestyles available on today’s ships. “On a cruise ship with 2,000+ passengers, I stand in line for meals, tours, lectures, shows. This is not cruising as I like it. Crowds, crowds everywhere,” he writes. He adds that lines move quickly, but “it is not a quiet, contemplative week at sea.”
Frommer does write: “Let me, in all fairness, compliment the cruise lines on providing a considerable degree of comfort – indeed, luxury – at an extremely reasonable price.” He states that lower cost cruises do offer real value. “But, to thoughtful Americans, it provides no real vacation.”
Most travel agents who sell cruises are aware of the different activities and lifestyles available on different cruise lines. Information provided by cruise lines and CLIA along with the many seminars offered to travel agents by the cruise lines and at events such as Travel Trade’s Cruise-a-thon and CLIA’s cruise3sixty provide excellent product knowledge learning opportunities.
The area where travel agents all too often fall down is to truly understand the lifestyle and activity desires of their clients. Does your client want the high-energy activity of contemporary mega-ships, low-key relaxation of smaller, more refined cruises – or something in between?
Another failure is to assume that your client will like the lifestyle you prefer. Just because you love the lavish, Las Vegas-type shows presented on mega-ships, does not mean your client will, or vice- versa.
Little things can also be important. We remember hearing two women on a contemporary cruise ship complaining about the casual dress worn by most passengers. Clearly, they would have been more comfortable on a premium or luxury ship. They probably chose (or accepted a travel agent’s recommendation) of a contemporary ship because it was less expensive.
If you know your clients and your cruise lines and ships and match them properly, you will have a profitable sale and satisfied clients who value your recommendations and will return to you for future vacations.
Friday
Trafalgar offers travel agents incentive for doing e-Learning
Trafalgar Tours expanded its e-Learning travel agent program with two additional programs, bringing the total to four, and introduced an incentive to encourage agents to participate.
According to Trafalgar’s President John Severini, the e-Learning program has succeeded in increasing the sales performance of past participants. Since the program was initiated in September 2005, 3,000 travel agents have participated, according to the company.
Agents who complete the two new modules by June 15 are eligible to win a trip for two on Trafalgar’s seven-night Best of the Canyonlands tour. They’ll also receive a certificate that names them as a Trafalgar Super Agent Specialists.
The first module, based on a Snakes and Ladders game format, is on the subject of selling tours. The second module is called “Myth Busters.” The third module, also based on Snakes and Ladders, focuses on Canada and the U.S. And the fourth is called “Dare to Compare: Touring versus Self-Drive.”
The training modules are available online and each module takes about 15 minutes to complete, the company said. The training has been effective in helping agents boost sales.
To participate, agents must log onto http://www.trafalgar.com/, click on the Travel Agent Login link, followed by the e-Learning tab.
According to Trafalgar’s President John Severini, the e-Learning program has succeeded in increasing the sales performance of past participants. Since the program was initiated in September 2005, 3,000 travel agents have participated, according to the company.
Agents who complete the two new modules by June 15 are eligible to win a trip for two on Trafalgar’s seven-night Best of the Canyonlands tour. They’ll also receive a certificate that names them as a Trafalgar Super Agent Specialists.
The first module, based on a Snakes and Ladders game format, is on the subject of selling tours. The second module is called “Myth Busters.” The third module, also based on Snakes and Ladders, focuses on Canada and the U.S. And the fourth is called “Dare to Compare: Touring versus Self-Drive.”
The training modules are available online and each module takes about 15 minutes to complete, the company said. The training has been effective in helping agents boost sales.
To participate, agents must log onto http://www.trafalgar.com/, click on the Travel Agent Login link, followed by the e-Learning tab.
Thursday
The Internet has changed the world of travel
While the Internet has certainly changed the world of travel, that isn't necessarily a bad thing. Yes, some people are booking online, but cruise and vacation customers will always appreciate the advice and customer service that they can never get from a computer.
The Internet has helped travel agents by leveling the playing field. You don't have to work in a giant call center to have the best technology. Any agent with a home computer and high-speed Internet can compete with even the biggest travel agencies.
Let's face it, many consumers don't know the difference between Crystal Cruises and Carnival cruise line. Customers looking for cruises, tours, and vacation packages will continue to rely on expert advice to find the right vacation, and they will feel more comfortable with a professional booking those trips for them.
As a home based travel agent, if you take advantage of the technology that is available to you and provide your customers a hassle-free booking experience that they can't get by trying to do all the researching and booking themselves, then not only will technology never be able to replace you, it will help you serve more customers and make more money than you otherwise could.
The Internet has helped travel agents by leveling the playing field. You don't have to work in a giant call center to have the best technology. Any agent with a home computer and high-speed Internet can compete with even the biggest travel agencies.
Let's face it, many consumers don't know the difference between Crystal Cruises and Carnival cruise line. Customers looking for cruises, tours, and vacation packages will continue to rely on expert advice to find the right vacation, and they will feel more comfortable with a professional booking those trips for them.
As a home based travel agent, if you take advantage of the technology that is available to you and provide your customers a hassle-free booking experience that they can't get by trying to do all the researching and booking themselves, then not only will technology never be able to replace you, it will help you serve more customers and make more money than you otherwise could.
Free Marketing - Using PR
Most home based travel agents think that they need to spend a lot of money on marketing if they want to get more customers. However, the expression "you have to spend money to make money" isn't always true.
Issuing press releases about your accomplishments or or stories about where you just came back from can be a great way to get your name out there -- and it doesn't have to cost you a dime.
You don't have to be the biggest travel company in the country to have something newsworthy to announce. Even if your travel agency is just you, your computer, and a phone, you're able to make news.
If you join a host agency, your community should know that you've just made a new partnership that will enable you to provide customers better rates and exclusive availability (as any good host agency will have groups you can book into).
Even if you're not doing anything "new," you can still make news. When you have anniversaries as an agent, or if you have a month where you sold more cruises than normal -- that's news.
Once you've written your press release, you can post it to a free wire service like PRWeb.com. Not only do wire services have a large number of subscribers, but they also post your release on their web sites, which then get scoured by search engines like Yahoo! And googol. Finally, send (by mail or by e-mail) copies of your release to the travel editors of your local newspapers.
Remember to finish every press release with "Customers interested in booking their next trip with [you] can do so by calling [your phone number]." Not only can you get a good boost in business for free, but by getting your release on the web, you can get new customers for months or years to come.
Press release should always be written in third-person, like a news article. When you send a press release allays put in the upper left corner "For immediate release" in the upper right corner put two lines 1st "For further information:" 2nd line " you name and phone number"
Skip a couple of lines and put "Press Release" skip a couple more lines and do you press release.
Issuing press releases about your accomplishments or or stories about where you just came back from can be a great way to get your name out there -- and it doesn't have to cost you a dime.
You don't have to be the biggest travel company in the country to have something newsworthy to announce. Even if your travel agency is just you, your computer, and a phone, you're able to make news.
If you join a host agency, your community should know that you've just made a new partnership that will enable you to provide customers better rates and exclusive availability (as any good host agency will have groups you can book into).
Even if you're not doing anything "new," you can still make news. When you have anniversaries as an agent, or if you have a month where you sold more cruises than normal -- that's news.
Once you've written your press release, you can post it to a free wire service like PRWeb.com. Not only do wire services have a large number of subscribers, but they also post your release on their web sites, which then get scoured by search engines like Yahoo! And googol. Finally, send (by mail or by e-mail) copies of your release to the travel editors of your local newspapers.
Remember to finish every press release with "Customers interested in booking their next trip with [you] can do so by calling [your phone number]." Not only can you get a good boost in business for free, but by getting your release on the web, you can get new customers for months or years to come.
Press release should always be written in third-person, like a news article. When you send a press release allays put in the upper left corner "For immediate release" in the upper right corner put two lines 1st "For further information:" 2nd line " you name and phone number"
Skip a couple of lines and put "Press Release" skip a couple more lines and do you press release.
What is a client worth?
What is a client worth to a home travel agent. The people take a minimum of two family vacations per year at an average total price of $6,000 per trip for a family of four. Using an average commission percentage of 13 percent for these trips, the travel agent handling this business is earning $1,560 per year per family.
Over a seven-year period, this customer has a value to the travel agent of $10,920 ($1,560 x 7) How many families do you need to earn a good living selling travel in your town? You can do the math.
Have you taken the time and invested even a small amount of money to create awareness for your services? Go ahead and Google "Advertising Specialties" to see the variety of companies that offer you the ability to create customized promotional products imprinted with your logo and contact information.
You'll be surprised at just how cost effective it is. Check out advertising opportunities in your local supermarket, coffee shop, or any other place your potential customers frequent. Create a monthly budget, invest in promoting your business, and monitor the results -- the key word being "invest."
Over a seven-year period, this customer has a value to the travel agent of $10,920 ($1,560 x 7) How many families do you need to earn a good living selling travel in your town? You can do the math.
Have you taken the time and invested even a small amount of money to create awareness for your services? Go ahead and Google "Advertising Specialties" to see the variety of companies that offer you the ability to create customized promotional products imprinted with your logo and contact information.
You'll be surprised at just how cost effective it is. Check out advertising opportunities in your local supermarket, coffee shop, or any other place your potential customers frequent. Create a monthly budget, invest in promoting your business, and monitor the results -- the key word being "invest."
Wednesday
Antigua and Barbuda Sets Trade Expo & Fam Trip
The Antigua & Barbuda Ministry of Tourism is inviting home travel agents from North America to experience the islands during a Trade Expo and familiarization trip, May 14-17, 2006, including pre-expo activities May 12-14 and post-expo activities May 17-18.
One of the main attractions of this event will be a sailing tour around the island with stops at some of the Caribbean's most upscale properties. In addition to site inspections, agents get to partake in exclusive and exciting activities that include: dining, private barbecue parties, eco and safari tours, guided island excursions, horseback riding, swimming encounter with stingrays, kayaking, snorkeling and scuba diving, duty free shopping.
Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer and Minister of Tourism Harold Lovell will be on hand to extend a personal welcome to agents to rediscover Antigua and Barbuda.
The cover charge for the expo is $45 per person, per night and includes accommodations, meals, beverages, expo activities, taxes and service charges. Select special activities cost $25 per person, per experience. Discounted airfare is available on Delta ($99 agent/$199 companion – on Sundays and Wednesdays only from East Coast gateways) and American Airlines ($149 agent/$299 companion). To register, contact the Antigua and Barbuda Department of Tourism via e-mail at general@antigua-barbuda.org or call 888-268-4227.
One of the main attractions of this event will be a sailing tour around the island with stops at some of the Caribbean's most upscale properties. In addition to site inspections, agents get to partake in exclusive and exciting activities that include: dining, private barbecue parties, eco and safari tours, guided island excursions, horseback riding, swimming encounter with stingrays, kayaking, snorkeling and scuba diving, duty free shopping.
Prime Minister Baldwin Spencer and Minister of Tourism Harold Lovell will be on hand to extend a personal welcome to agents to rediscover Antigua and Barbuda.
The cover charge for the expo is $45 per person, per night and includes accommodations, meals, beverages, expo activities, taxes and service charges. Select special activities cost $25 per person, per experience. Discounted airfare is available on Delta ($99 agent/$199 companion – on Sundays and Wednesdays only from East Coast gateways) and American Airlines ($149 agent/$299 companion). To register, contact the Antigua and Barbuda Department of Tourism via e-mail at general@antigua-barbuda.org or call 888-268-4227.
Southwest Offers Fares as Low as $49
Southwest Airlines is offering fares as low as $49 in some markets on tickets with 21-day advance purchases, only at Southwest.com. The price varies by day of travel and destination. The lowest fares are for flights, for example, between BWI and Columbus, Ohio, Los Angeles and Tucson and Fort Lauderdale and Orlando.
Flights in longer city-pairs, such as Indianapolis and Omaha and Austin and Jackson are $99. They differ somewhat by region; in the Midwest, fares start at $49, from select California cities, they are $59 and in the Northwest they range from $49 to $99. It also is promoting Houston-Hobby Airport with fares to Chicago-Midway, Las Vegas and Phoenix at $89, and to Los Angeles, Oakland and Philadelphia for $99. All fares except for interstate Florida travel are available for purchase through May 11. For more information, visit www.southwest.com.
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Flights in longer city-pairs, such as Indianapolis and Omaha and Austin and Jackson are $99. They differ somewhat by region; in the Midwest, fares start at $49, from select California cities, they are $59 and in the Northwest they range from $49 to $99. It also is promoting Houston-Hobby Airport with fares to Chicago-Midway, Las Vegas and Phoenix at $89, and to Los Angeles, Oakland and Philadelphia for $99. All fares except for interstate Florida travel are available for purchase through May 11. For more information, visit www.southwest.com.
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CCRAonelink.com hotel booking portal goes Live
CCRAonelink.com contains advanced functionality and content features. "With this rollout, thousands of home based travel agents can now book accommodations for their clients with the assurance that they have access to the most competitive rates and will receive commission for their service without a delay or collection effort," said Bill Guerin, CEO of OneLink.
Some of its partners using the technology are Vacation.com, NACTA, ASTA, Cruise Shoppes and WESTA. With this rollout, 24,000 North American agencies can now log on to the portal and book from an inventory of 80,000 hotels. For more information, visit http://www.onelinkcorp.com/.
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Some of its partners using the technology are Vacation.com, NACTA, ASTA, Cruise Shoppes and WESTA. With this rollout, 24,000 North American agencies can now log on to the portal and book from an inventory of 80,000 hotels. For more information, visit http://www.onelinkcorp.com/.
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Saturday
Exponential growth in luxury hotel spas and spa resorts
Why the current spa explosion is still the tip of the iceberg.
by: Robert Zimmer
The past decade has seen exponential growth in luxury hotel spas and spa resorts, due mainly to significant customer demand, and the fact that margins on spa operations are among the largest in the hotel industry.
So what explains this dramatic rise in customer demand? Although many reasons are often cited, many link the growth primarily to aging baby boomers, and the global growth in high net worth individuals, whose stress levels and need for self-actualisation have increased along with their net worth.
In addition, other factors such as the loss of job security have created a worried and time-poor population, in greater need of relaxation and its related health benefits. People are less formal and ‘younger’ in mind and spirit than they were 10 years ago, with many focusing on personal appearance to remain youthful.
The growth of terrorism has created a shift to more philosophical ways of thinking and greater introspection. Overall, the clutter of today’s world is creating a need for simplicity, and peace of mind.
As a result, today’s luxury traveller is seeking new life structures: authentic and life-enriching experiences – with a shift from fundamental needs, to higher needs and wants. This means that the demand for restorative and healing services provided by spas is likely to continue to grow exponentially over the coming decade.
This is a great oppertunity for home based travel agents to sell luxury hotel spas and spa resorts.
by: Robert Zimmer
The past decade has seen exponential growth in luxury hotel spas and spa resorts, due mainly to significant customer demand, and the fact that margins on spa operations are among the largest in the hotel industry.
So what explains this dramatic rise in customer demand? Although many reasons are often cited, many link the growth primarily to aging baby boomers, and the global growth in high net worth individuals, whose stress levels and need for self-actualisation have increased along with their net worth.
In addition, other factors such as the loss of job security have created a worried and time-poor population, in greater need of relaxation and its related health benefits. People are less formal and ‘younger’ in mind and spirit than they were 10 years ago, with many focusing on personal appearance to remain youthful.
The growth of terrorism has created a shift to more philosophical ways of thinking and greater introspection. Overall, the clutter of today’s world is creating a need for simplicity, and peace of mind.
As a result, today’s luxury traveller is seeking new life structures: authentic and life-enriching experiences – with a shift from fundamental needs, to higher needs and wants. This means that the demand for restorative and healing services provided by spas is likely to continue to grow exponentially over the coming decade.
This is a great oppertunity for home based travel agents to sell luxury hotel spas and spa resorts.
Friday
Air Sales from NY
Several airlines just announced sales from New York, LongIsland, Hartford, Albany, and other nearby airports.Fare sales have been rare this year, and prices for summer travel continue to climb.
That means this is a great opportunity to plan your spring and early summer travel.How to find the low fares:- Lowest fares are for travel now through May 31.- Act quickly! Some sales must be booked by April 21.- Be flexible: Try alternate dates if necessary, and avoid Fridays and Sundays for the lowest fares.- Try secondary airports, such as Newark, out of which fares are often cheaper.
That means this is a great opportunity to plan your spring and early summer travel.How to find the low fares:- Lowest fares are for travel now through May 31.- Act quickly! Some sales must be booked by April 21.- Be flexible: Try alternate dates if necessary, and avoid Fridays and Sundays for the lowest fares.- Try secondary airports, such as Newark, out of which fares are often cheaper.
Thursday
Sunset Resorts Jamaica Unveil Agent Fam Rates
Sunset Resorts, owners and operators of Sunset Beach Resort & Spa in Montego Bay, Sunset Jamaica Grande in Ocho Rios, and Sunset at the Palms in Negril, is luring agents with new fam rates for home based travel agents.
The company also launched a new brochure so home based travel agents have a new tool to sell their clients on Sunset Resorts. Home based travel agents are asked to register online at www.sunsetresortsjamaica.com, where they can enter each of the resort's individual websites.
They can just simply click on the new "Travel Professionals" link to sign up for news and promotions as well as order brochures. Valid for travel now through June 15, 2006.
Agents can visit each of the resorts for only $69 per person, per night, based on double occupancy. The rate applies to spouse/companions. If agents wish to bring their children, regular child rates of $30 net per child per night are extended. Single occupancy rates are $119 per person, per night. Rates include accommodations with a private balcony, all meals, bar beverages, wine by the glass, all non-motorized water sports, tennis, nightly entertainment, taxes, and gratuity. For more information, call 800-234-1707 or visit www.sunsetbeachjamaica.com.
To become a travel agent and travel at agent rares go to www.homebasedtravelagents.org
The company also launched a new brochure so home based travel agents have a new tool to sell their clients on Sunset Resorts. Home based travel agents are asked to register online at www.sunsetresortsjamaica.com, where they can enter each of the resort's individual websites.
They can just simply click on the new "Travel Professionals" link to sign up for news and promotions as well as order brochures. Valid for travel now through June 15, 2006.
Agents can visit each of the resorts for only $69 per person, per night, based on double occupancy. The rate applies to spouse/companions. If agents wish to bring their children, regular child rates of $30 net per child per night are extended. Single occupancy rates are $119 per person, per night. Rates include accommodations with a private balcony, all meals, bar beverages, wine by the glass, all non-motorized water sports, tennis, nightly entertainment, taxes, and gratuity. For more information, call 800-234-1707 or visit www.sunsetbeachjamaica.com.
To become a travel agent and travel at agent rares go to www.homebasedtravelagents.org
Tuesday
Destination Hawaii, a Journey to Paradise
Like snowflakes or fingerprints, no two Hawaiian islands are exactly alike. While every Hawaiian island boasts magnificent beaches, great culture, and fantastic cuisine, each island has something unique to offer.
Kauai is the most lush and tropical of all the Hawaiian Islands, with cascading waterfalls, white beaches, and serene rivers. In Kauai you can explore the rugged and beautiful Na Pali Coast by kayak and look for nesting sea turtles along remote beaches. You can learn the hula, enjoy the majestic views of the Waimea Canyon, or take the river ride to the Fern Grotto - a breathtaking cave lush with ferns and waterfalls.
The island of Oahu is home to some of the most famous destinations on the islands. The world's most famous beach, Waikiki, is ideal for swimming, surfing, or just soaking up the sun. Honolulu is home to historical landmarks and monuments such as Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial. At Oahu's North Shore, you'll marvel at thrilling 30-foot waves and enjoy world-class surfing, and body boarding.
Maui is one of the most popular islands for return visitors, because of its spectacular natural scenery, prestigious resorts, and wide selection of activities to choose from. During the winter, you can find yourself encircled by migrating humpback whales. You can take a half-day or daylong charter and go fishing for mahi mahi and ahi tuna. If you're looking to relax for the day, take the road to Hana, bordered by waterfall pools, botanical gardens, and lush rain forests.
The island of Hawaii is called the "Big Island" for a reason -- it is larger than all the other islands combined. The Big Island is home to the world's most active volcano, Kilauea, which is celebrating 20 years of continuous eruption. Visitors can watch as hot lava flows into the ocean and see the color and texture of molten rock that photographs can never adequately capture. A true golfer's paradise, the golf course of the Big Island Country Club offers a challenge to all levels of players and is one of the most spectacular courses anywhere. With crystal blue beaches and great weather year round, there's never a bad time to visit the Hawaii Islands.
Whatever island (or islands) you choose, your vacation will be a journey to paradise.
Home based travel agent not only get paid for selling Hawaii they get to travel to Hawaii at travel agent rates or go on travel agent FAM trips. To become a travel agent go to www.homebasedtravelagents.org
Kauai is the most lush and tropical of all the Hawaiian Islands, with cascading waterfalls, white beaches, and serene rivers. In Kauai you can explore the rugged and beautiful Na Pali Coast by kayak and look for nesting sea turtles along remote beaches. You can learn the hula, enjoy the majestic views of the Waimea Canyon, or take the river ride to the Fern Grotto - a breathtaking cave lush with ferns and waterfalls.
The island of Oahu is home to some of the most famous destinations on the islands. The world's most famous beach, Waikiki, is ideal for swimming, surfing, or just soaking up the sun. Honolulu is home to historical landmarks and monuments such as Pearl Harbor and the USS Arizona Memorial. At Oahu's North Shore, you'll marvel at thrilling 30-foot waves and enjoy world-class surfing, and body boarding.
Maui is one of the most popular islands for return visitors, because of its spectacular natural scenery, prestigious resorts, and wide selection of activities to choose from. During the winter, you can find yourself encircled by migrating humpback whales. You can take a half-day or daylong charter and go fishing for mahi mahi and ahi tuna. If you're looking to relax for the day, take the road to Hana, bordered by waterfall pools, botanical gardens, and lush rain forests.
The island of Hawaii is called the "Big Island" for a reason -- it is larger than all the other islands combined. The Big Island is home to the world's most active volcano, Kilauea, which is celebrating 20 years of continuous eruption. Visitors can watch as hot lava flows into the ocean and see the color and texture of molten rock that photographs can never adequately capture. A true golfer's paradise, the golf course of the Big Island Country Club offers a challenge to all levels of players and is one of the most spectacular courses anywhere. With crystal blue beaches and great weather year round, there's never a bad time to visit the Hawaii Islands.
Whatever island (or islands) you choose, your vacation will be a journey to paradise.
Home based travel agent not only get paid for selling Hawaii they get to travel to Hawaii at travel agent rates or go on travel agent FAM trips. To become a travel agent go to www.homebasedtravelagents.org
Brooklyn Cruise Terminal Ready to Open
The new Brooklyn Cruise Terminal will officially open April 15
with the arrival of Cunard's Queen Mary 2. The opening of the $52 million Brooklyn facility will help increase cruise capacity in New York while minimizing congestion at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, which will limit capacity to three berthing spaces from five, said Bronson Fox, assistant vice president of transportation for the New York City Economic Development Corp.
"We are shifting future growth to Brooklyn," Fox said. "This facility is meant for the larger ships." Brooklyn will also host Princess Cruises' Crown Princess when it makes its debut in June. The Brooklyn terminal is in a neighborhood called Red Hook, home to art galleries, restaurants and shops. "The Brooklyn terminal is right across from the Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan," Fox said during a press briefing at CLIA's cruise3sixty show. "When the cruise executives saw the view, they were sold on it." For more information, visit www.nycruiseterminal.com or www.nycvisit.com
with the arrival of Cunard's Queen Mary 2. The opening of the $52 million Brooklyn facility will help increase cruise capacity in New York while minimizing congestion at the Manhattan Cruise Terminal, which will limit capacity to three berthing spaces from five, said Bronson Fox, assistant vice president of transportation for the New York City Economic Development Corp.
"We are shifting future growth to Brooklyn," Fox said. "This facility is meant for the larger ships." Brooklyn will also host Princess Cruises' Crown Princess when it makes its debut in June. The Brooklyn terminal is in a neighborhood called Red Hook, home to art galleries, restaurants and shops. "The Brooklyn terminal is right across from the Brooklyn Bridge from Manhattan," Fox said during a press briefing at CLIA's cruise3sixty show. "When the cruise executives saw the view, they were sold on it." For more information, visit www.nycruiseterminal.com or www.nycvisit.com
Baby Boomer Travel Explosion Expected
Over 55 million baby boomers are getting ready to retire. When asked what they intend on doing, Travel and see the world is on top of there list. Most of the baby boomers have been to the Caribbean, Alaska and England and Italy.
So where do they want to go?? Asia, especially China Japan and India. They also are interested in Russia and eastern Europe like Hungary and seeing beautifully renaissance cites like Budapest.
The have cruised the Caribbean now they want to cruise the Mediterranean. River cruises thought Europe are especially appealing. You get to see several cites with out all the packing and unpacking.
Cruise lines and hotelers are in a building frenzy preparing to meet the travel demand of the baby boomers for more ships and hotels and they are barely keeping up.
Home Based Travel Agents that are specialist in specific destinations will be in huge demand. Example: if you need hart surgery you don't go to a GP, you go to a heart specialist. If you are going to China you don't go to a general travel agent, you go to a China specialist travel agent. One the that is an expert in that destination and can advise you on what to see and do.
People that are interested in becoming a home based travel agents and geting trained as a destination specialist should go to www.homebasedtravelagents.org for more information.
So where do they want to go?? Asia, especially China Japan and India. They also are interested in Russia and eastern Europe like Hungary and seeing beautifully renaissance cites like Budapest.
The have cruised the Caribbean now they want to cruise the Mediterranean. River cruises thought Europe are especially appealing. You get to see several cites with out all the packing and unpacking.
Cruise lines and hotelers are in a building frenzy preparing to meet the travel demand of the baby boomers for more ships and hotels and they are barely keeping up.
Home Based Travel Agents that are specialist in specific destinations will be in huge demand. Example: if you need hart surgery you don't go to a GP, you go to a heart specialist. If you are going to China you don't go to a general travel agent, you go to a China specialist travel agent. One the that is an expert in that destination and can advise you on what to see and do.
People that are interested in becoming a home based travel agents and geting trained as a destination specialist should go to www.homebasedtravelagents.org for more information.
GO GO Helps Home Based Travel Agents email specials to clients
At GOGO Worldwide Vacations, we are always looking for ways to help Home based travel agents grow your business.
You asked for a way to reach your customer database by e-mail with great GOGO offers, and we listened. Now you can sign-up to receive GOGO e-mails with your name and contact information right at the top of the message, so you can easily forward these offers to your clients with the click of a button. Your contact information will be the first thing customers see in the e-mail, making it easy for them to book directly with you.
To sign up for this program, log into your GOGO profile page at GOGOWWV.com and check the box that says, "Would you like to receive a copy of the InFocus newsletter to send to your clients?" After that, you will receive a version of InFocus every Thursday that includes your contact information, and you can simply forward this e-mail to your customer list.
We are confident this feature will improve your ability to communicate our expanded inventory of great GOGO offers to your clients, and it is one of many steps we are taking to provide better service for you, our only customer. To become a home based travel agent go to www.homebasedtravelagents.org
You asked for a way to reach your customer database by e-mail with great GOGO offers, and we listened. Now you can sign-up to receive GOGO e-mails with your name and contact information right at the top of the message, so you can easily forward these offers to your clients with the click of a button. Your contact information will be the first thing customers see in the e-mail, making it easy for them to book directly with you.
To sign up for this program, log into your GOGO profile page at GOGOWWV.com and check the box that says, "Would you like to receive a copy of the InFocus newsletter to send to your clients?" After that, you will receive a version of InFocus every Thursday that includes your contact information, and you can simply forward this e-mail to your customer list.
We are confident this feature will improve your ability to communicate our expanded inventory of great GOGO offers to your clients, and it is one of many steps we are taking to provide better service for you, our only customer. To become a home based travel agent go to www.homebasedtravelagents.org
Friday
Home Based Travel Agents share secrets to there success
You can't be afraid."Upscalers in the Making - Stacy Acree, St. Louis, Mo., has found an upscale niche for herself:
Young professionals on their way up. One great source for her are her friends' office happy hours. She joins them at after-hours social functions and is never without her business card. She even takes them with her to the gym where she works out. She mentions in passing that she sells travel and exchanges cards. Then she follows up with a postcard, finding that cruise lines' postcards work very well: "It's short and sweet."
Acree tailors the card to the prospect - matching the spa cruise to the person who mentioned an interest in spas, the family cruise to the couple with children and so on. "I carefully listen to the needs of the client as they answer the questions, mention my background and experience to establish credibility, make recommendations based on the conversation and then always ask for the sale - that's the most important part," she says.
PS If you don't have a list of up-scale clients, make one. Start with the yellow pages, how many types of doctors can you find in it. What other people listed in yellow pages also make good money (hint- anybody use a plumber lately) Just to name 1 out of 600.
Agentnet.com has a GREAT marketing program. You supply them with your list of names and address and they will mail and email to the people you supply with great travel specials with your name address phone number. To be part of this program cost $100. per year.
If you would like to share your secrets to your success, send it to hbta@optonline.net to become a home based travel agent go to www.homebasedtravelagents.org
Young professionals on their way up. One great source for her are her friends' office happy hours. She joins them at after-hours social functions and is never without her business card. She even takes them with her to the gym where she works out. She mentions in passing that she sells travel and exchanges cards. Then she follows up with a postcard, finding that cruise lines' postcards work very well: "It's short and sweet."
Acree tailors the card to the prospect - matching the spa cruise to the person who mentioned an interest in spas, the family cruise to the couple with children and so on. "I carefully listen to the needs of the client as they answer the questions, mention my background and experience to establish credibility, make recommendations based on the conversation and then always ask for the sale - that's the most important part," she says.
PS If you don't have a list of up-scale clients, make one. Start with the yellow pages, how many types of doctors can you find in it. What other people listed in yellow pages also make good money (hint- anybody use a plumber lately) Just to name 1 out of 600.
Agentnet.com has a GREAT marketing program. You supply them with your list of names and address and they will mail and email to the people you supply with great travel specials with your name address phone number. To be part of this program cost $100. per year.
If you would like to share your secrets to your success, send it to hbta@optonline.net to become a home based travel agent go to www.homebasedtravelagents.org
Thursday
Newest Luxury Boutique Hotel opens in Sivory Punta Cana
The newest luxury boutique hotel to open on the Dominican Republic's eastern coast, Sivory Punta Cana, celebrates its grand opening by adding one extra free night to "The Good Life" package.
According to Mr. Paul Davis, President of www.homebasedtravelagents.com "they are offering home based travel agents 20 percent commission and one complimentary night stay for two people for every five nights booked"
The booking window is April and May and is valid for travel until July 31, 2006. The luxury property features 55 suites. "The Good Life" includes: a three-night stay in a deluxe junior suite plus one free night's accommodations; private ground transportation to and from Punta Cana International Airport; private check-in; breakfast daily; daily selection of house wines in each suite; one premium cigar box of Arturo Fuentes per room; a 55-minute aromatherapy treatment per person, per stay at the hotel's Aquarea Spa & Wellness Center; and one gourmet dinner for two. Package rates start at $1,596 per room, based on double occupancy. For more information, call 809-552-0500 or visit www.sivorypuntacana.com
According to Mr. Paul Davis, President of www.homebasedtravelagents.com "they are offering home based travel agents 20 percent commission and one complimentary night stay for two people for every five nights booked"
The booking window is April and May and is valid for travel until July 31, 2006. The luxury property features 55 suites. "The Good Life" includes: a three-night stay in a deluxe junior suite plus one free night's accommodations; private ground transportation to and from Punta Cana International Airport; private check-in; breakfast daily; daily selection of house wines in each suite; one premium cigar box of Arturo Fuentes per room; a 55-minute aromatherapy treatment per person, per stay at the hotel's Aquarea Spa & Wellness Center; and one gourmet dinner for two. Package rates start at $1,596 per room, based on double occupancy. For more information, call 809-552-0500 or visit www.sivorypuntacana.com
Home Based Travel Agents can register today for the 2006 Sandals & Beaches Ultra Conventions
Home Based Travel Agents can register today for the 2006 Sandals & Beaches Ultra Conventions set to take place starting May 23 in Atlanta. The conventions will move to four other North American cities over the summer including Chicago, June 7; Atlantic City, June 15; Toronto, July 13; and Los Angeles, July 20.
According to Paul Davis, President of www.HomeBasedTravelAgents.com , this year's seminars will offer an array of educational opportunities designed to improve agent's product knowledge, as well as build better sales skills.
Seminars will energize agents with a host of topics including trends in destination weddings, spa and new product developments, hotel expansion news, as well as the newest branding opportunities and unique marketing tools.
Red Lane spa director, Karen Sprung, will be on hand to describe Sandals' latest approach to well-being and relaxation Caribbean-style at the 2006 Ultra Conventions. To register for this year's Ultra Conventions, contact your local sales manager or call the Sales Department at 800-48-SPECIAL or visit http://www.sandals.com/.
According to Paul Davis, President of www.HomeBasedTravelAgents.com , this year's seminars will offer an array of educational opportunities designed to improve agent's product knowledge, as well as build better sales skills.
Seminars will energize agents with a host of topics including trends in destination weddings, spa and new product developments, hotel expansion news, as well as the newest branding opportunities and unique marketing tools.
Red Lane spa director, Karen Sprung, will be on hand to describe Sandals' latest approach to well-being and relaxation Caribbean-style at the 2006 Ultra Conventions. To register for this year's Ultra Conventions, contact your local sales manager or call the Sales Department at 800-48-SPECIAL or visit http://www.sandals.com/.
Home based travel agents can start booking Disney cruises to the Mediterranean
You can start booking Disney Cruise Line's first-ever Mediterranean cruises in 2007. The Disney Magic is offering alternating 10- and 11-night itineraries from Barcelona to Italy and France during the summer of 2007.
"This is a great opertunity for home based travel agents to sell two great products Disney and the Mediterranean" said Mr. Paul Davis President of www.HomeBasedTravelAgents.com
Ports of call include gateways to Florence, Rome, Pisa and Cannes. The four 11-night itineraries depart on Saturdays: May 26, June 16, July 7 and July 28, while the four 10-night itineraries depart on Wednesdays June 6, June 27, July 18 and Aug. 8.
Also, the line will operate two 14-night transatlantic sailings with the eastbound itinerary departing Port Canaveral May 12 and the westbound starting Aug. 18 from Barcelona. Rates for the 10- and 11-night itineraries range from $2,399 to $3,499, double occupancy. For more information, call 888-DCL-2500 visit www.disneycruise.com.
"This is a great opertunity for home based travel agents to sell two great products Disney and the Mediterranean" said Mr. Paul Davis President of www.HomeBasedTravelAgents.com
Ports of call include gateways to Florence, Rome, Pisa and Cannes. The four 11-night itineraries depart on Saturdays: May 26, June 16, July 7 and July 28, while the four 10-night itineraries depart on Wednesdays June 6, June 27, July 18 and Aug. 8.
Also, the line will operate two 14-night transatlantic sailings with the eastbound itinerary departing Port Canaveral May 12 and the westbound starting Aug. 18 from Barcelona. Rates for the 10- and 11-night itineraries range from $2,399 to $3,499, double occupancy. For more information, call 888-DCL-2500 visit www.disneycruise.com.
Wednesday
New Free Princess Cruise DVD for Home Based Travel Agents
Princess Cruises has released a new "Complete Escapes 2006"
DVD that home based travel agents can use as a marketing tool. The new 59-minute disk, which comprises a dozen videos, showcases Princess' ships and highlights the 11 regions Princess visits -- Alaska, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, Mexican Riviera, Panama Canal, South America and Tahiti.
In addition, a special Movies Under the Stars section gives a close-up look at the 300-square-foot outdoor movie screens. Each two- to nine-minute segment is accompanied by music. A Home Based Travel Agent Options menu offers the opportunity to show many of the popular destinations pieces bundled together -- such as the Caribbean and Mexico -- and combine it with the Princess overview video for a seamless presentation. Home Based Travel Agents can request copies of the DVD by calling 888-478-6732 and referencing code DVD0105. To become a approved home based travel agent and earn extra income and travel benifits, go to www.HomeBasedTravelAgents.org
DVD that home based travel agents can use as a marketing tool. The new 59-minute disk, which comprises a dozen videos, showcases Princess' ships and highlights the 11 regions Princess visits -- Alaska, Asia, Australia/New Zealand, Canada/New England, the Caribbean, Europe, Hawaii, Mexican Riviera, Panama Canal, South America and Tahiti.
In addition, a special Movies Under the Stars section gives a close-up look at the 300-square-foot outdoor movie screens. Each two- to nine-minute segment is accompanied by music. A Home Based Travel Agent Options menu offers the opportunity to show many of the popular destinations pieces bundled together -- such as the Caribbean and Mexico -- and combine it with the Princess overview video for a seamless presentation. Home Based Travel Agents can request copies of the DVD by calling 888-478-6732 and referencing code DVD0105. To become a approved home based travel agent and earn extra income and travel benifits, go to www.HomeBasedTravelAgents.org
Tuesday
Cruise Line News
CARNIVAL CRUISE LINES
on April 6 will permanently switch itineraries operated by the Fantasy and the Sensation, due to a technical issue with the propulsion system on the Sensation. The ship is unable to operate at maximum cruising speed to complete five-day itineraries to Bahamas and Grand Turk and will take over the Fantasy's three- and four-day itineraries to the Bahamas. The Fantasy will take over the Sensation's route.
THE FANTASY AND SENSATION
are sister ships with the same features, amenities, accommodations and layout, and passengers' reservations will automatically change from one ship to the other; booking numbers and stateroom assignments will stay the same. Guests also can use their preexisting cruise documents.
PRINCESS CRUISES
canceled the remainder of its Caribbean cruise season and a transatlantic cruise on the Star Princess. The ship was taken out of service after a fire damaged 100 cabins; one person died and 11 people were injured in the fire. The ship's next scheduled sailing will be May 15, from Copenhagen, Denmark. Passengers booked on the canceled cruises will receive full refunds and a 25% credit toward future Princess cruises.
NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE
is getting loads of airtime. The Norwegian Jewel was the center of an episode of NBC's "The Apprentice." The two teams faced off to create a 30-second ad for NCL's Freestyle Cruising concept. On April 6 HBO will air "All Aboard! Rosie's Family Cruise," a documentary about the first cruise for gay and lesbian families, which was held on the Norwegian Dawn.
ROYAL CARIBBEAN
is wearing its heart on its sleeve -- or at least on its building. The line kicked off its Travel Agent Appreciation Month on April 1 by unveiling the slogan: "Royal Caribbean Recommends Using a Travel Agent" and by hanging a giant banner from its Miami headquarters. Other facets of the campaign: a sweepstakes for bookings made in April for travel between August and December and Travel Agent Appreciation Month promos in newspaper and online ads.
Crystal Introduces Private Adventures
The trend toward enhancement of the shore side of a cruise experience continues with the news that Crystal Cruises has launched "Crystal Private Adventures" to further personalize its guests' shore experiences. The line's Private Adventures specialists will accommodate everything from personalized arrangements to a private chartered yacht. Crystal Private Adventures is offered to guests already booked on a Crystal cruise for a $100 nonrefundable charge, due upon receipt of request.
If the guest accepts the personalized shore program, the service fee is applied to the booking. There are three ways to pre-reserve. Agents or clients may go to [www.crystalcruises.com] and click on "Crystal Private Adventures" under the Crystal Adventures (shore excursion) tab. Guests complete the online form and e-mail it directly to [PrivateAdventures@crystalcruises.com]. Also, a form is included in the 90-day preliminary documents sent to all guests, with a direct return fax number to the Crystal Private Adventures desk. Or, agents or guests may call 866-446-6625 to discuss details. All verbal requests must then be confirmed in writing via email or fax. Details of each Crystal Private Adventure are shared with the respective ship in advance of sail date, and guests receive a confirmed agenda and tour tickets upon boarding
on April 6 will permanently switch itineraries operated by the Fantasy and the Sensation, due to a technical issue with the propulsion system on the Sensation. The ship is unable to operate at maximum cruising speed to complete five-day itineraries to Bahamas and Grand Turk and will take over the Fantasy's three- and four-day itineraries to the Bahamas. The Fantasy will take over the Sensation's route.
THE FANTASY AND SENSATION
are sister ships with the same features, amenities, accommodations and layout, and passengers' reservations will automatically change from one ship to the other; booking numbers and stateroom assignments will stay the same. Guests also can use their preexisting cruise documents.
PRINCESS CRUISES
canceled the remainder of its Caribbean cruise season and a transatlantic cruise on the Star Princess. The ship was taken out of service after a fire damaged 100 cabins; one person died and 11 people were injured in the fire. The ship's next scheduled sailing will be May 15, from Copenhagen, Denmark. Passengers booked on the canceled cruises will receive full refunds and a 25% credit toward future Princess cruises.
NORWEGIAN CRUISE LINE
is getting loads of airtime. The Norwegian Jewel was the center of an episode of NBC's "The Apprentice." The two teams faced off to create a 30-second ad for NCL's Freestyle Cruising concept. On April 6 HBO will air "All Aboard! Rosie's Family Cruise," a documentary about the first cruise for gay and lesbian families, which was held on the Norwegian Dawn.
ROYAL CARIBBEAN
is wearing its heart on its sleeve -- or at least on its building. The line kicked off its Travel Agent Appreciation Month on April 1 by unveiling the slogan: "Royal Caribbean Recommends Using a Travel Agent" and by hanging a giant banner from its Miami headquarters. Other facets of the campaign: a sweepstakes for bookings made in April for travel between August and December and Travel Agent Appreciation Month promos in newspaper and online ads.
Crystal Introduces Private Adventures
The trend toward enhancement of the shore side of a cruise experience continues with the news that Crystal Cruises has launched "Crystal Private Adventures" to further personalize its guests' shore experiences. The line's Private Adventures specialists will accommodate everything from personalized arrangements to a private chartered yacht. Crystal Private Adventures is offered to guests already booked on a Crystal cruise for a $100 nonrefundable charge, due upon receipt of request.
If the guest accepts the personalized shore program, the service fee is applied to the booking. There are three ways to pre-reserve. Agents or clients may go to [www.crystalcruises.com] and click on "Crystal Private Adventures" under the Crystal Adventures (shore excursion) tab. Guests complete the online form and e-mail it directly to [PrivateAdventures@crystalcruises.com]. Also, a form is included in the 90-day preliminary documents sent to all guests, with a direct return fax number to the Crystal Private Adventures desk. Or, agents or guests may call 866-446-6625 to discuss details. All verbal requests must then be confirmed in writing via email or fax. Details of each Crystal Private Adventure are shared with the respective ship in advance of sail date, and guests receive a confirmed agenda and tour tickets upon boarding
Mother /daughter clients for Home Based Travel Agents
Apple Vacations reports that more adult women than ever are choosing to spend vacation time with their mothers.
A growing trend in 2006 for mother/daughter vacation bookings. Unlike traditional family vacations, mother-daughter vacations generally include more "me time," focusing on spa treatments, gourmet dining and off-resort activities. So much so that some Caribbean resorts are now including massages, manicures, pedicures and golf in their purchase prices.
Mother/daughter getaways can be surprisingly affordable. Three nights in a Platinum Club suite at the all-inclusive Bavaro Princess All Suites Resort, Spa and Casino in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic start from $609.99, departing from Detroit. The package includes roundtrip airfare and transfers, all meals and drinks, a complimentary 20-minute massage, one hour of motorized water sports, an open water dive, 24-hour room service and a dinner at Licey, a specialty restaurant not covered by the all-inclusive plan. For more information, visit http://www.applevacations.com/.
A growing trend in 2006 for mother/daughter vacation bookings. Unlike traditional family vacations, mother-daughter vacations generally include more "me time," focusing on spa treatments, gourmet dining and off-resort activities. So much so that some Caribbean resorts are now including massages, manicures, pedicures and golf in their purchase prices.
Mother/daughter getaways can be surprisingly affordable. Three nights in a Platinum Club suite at the all-inclusive Bavaro Princess All Suites Resort, Spa and Casino in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic start from $609.99, departing from Detroit. The package includes roundtrip airfare and transfers, all meals and drinks, a complimentary 20-minute massage, one hour of motorized water sports, an open water dive, 24-hour room service and a dinner at Licey, a specialty restaurant not covered by the all-inclusive plan. For more information, visit http://www.applevacations.com/.
Monday
Virtual Fams for Home Bsed Travel Agents
Here's an idea whose time has surely come
The virtual fam! Fam trips (short for Familiarization Trips) are sponsored by suppliers and destinations to allow home based travel agents learn more about those products and destinations. That way, they will be better able to sell those products and destinations to their clients.
It's the classic win-win situation. The trouble is, fam trips are by their very nature small scale events. Only a certain number of travel agents can participate. The virtual fam solves that problem. By conducting their tours online, via the Internet, suppliers can reach a much wider audience of homed based travel agents. Another plus is that the supplier can have a high level of confidence that the agents who participate in virtual fams have a genuine interest in selling the properties and destinations involved.
Apparently it's working. Funjet reports that 10,000 home based travel agents tuned in for a virtual fam of the Maya Riviera in December. If you'd like to see what a virtual fam looks like, you're in luck. Funjet is doing it again this week, this time for Cozumel. For more information and the tour schedule, visit the Fun jet site.http://www.funjetlive.com Persons interested in becoming a FT or PT home based travel agents and becoming an approved CLIA or IATAN agent can go to http://www.homebasedtravelagents.org/
The virtual fam! Fam trips (short for Familiarization Trips) are sponsored by suppliers and destinations to allow home based travel agents learn more about those products and destinations. That way, they will be better able to sell those products and destinations to their clients.
It's the classic win-win situation. The trouble is, fam trips are by their very nature small scale events. Only a certain number of travel agents can participate. The virtual fam solves that problem. By conducting their tours online, via the Internet, suppliers can reach a much wider audience of homed based travel agents. Another plus is that the supplier can have a high level of confidence that the agents who participate in virtual fams have a genuine interest in selling the properties and destinations involved.
Apparently it's working. Funjet reports that 10,000 home based travel agents tuned in for a virtual fam of the Maya Riviera in December. If you'd like to see what a virtual fam looks like, you're in luck. Funjet is doing it again this week, this time for Cozumel. For more information and the tour schedule, visit the Fun jet site.http://www.funjetlive.com Persons interested in becoming a FT or PT home based travel agents and becoming an approved CLIA or IATAN agent can go to http://www.homebasedtravelagents.org/
Travel Agent School to be held on Princess Cruise Line
Platinum Seminars and the Cruise Line International Association
have introduced a travel agent school, Express CLIA Certification cruise onboard Princess Cruises' Crown Princess. The Aug. 16 sailing will offer a Platinum Seminars Module, a Travel Institute approved program. Tom Cogan, director of training for CLIA, will conduct the CLIA sessions.
The course is only available to to CLIA or IATAN approved Agents. Persons interested in becoming a FT or PT home based travel agents and becoming an approved CLIA or IATAN agent can go to http://www.homebasedtravelagents.org/
Home Based Travel Agents who attend the travel agent school will be able to earn 65 points toward three certification levels along with 14 credits from the Travel Institute. The rate is $599 plus port fees and taxes. The western Caribbean cruise sails roundtrip from New York. Information is at http://www.ntmllc.info/z/cjUucD9taT01NDI3OSZwPTEmdT0xNzc3MjEwJmxpPTQxNDgx/index.html.
have introduced a travel agent school, Express CLIA Certification cruise onboard Princess Cruises' Crown Princess. The Aug. 16 sailing will offer a Platinum Seminars Module, a Travel Institute approved program. Tom Cogan, director of training for CLIA, will conduct the CLIA sessions.
The course is only available to to CLIA or IATAN approved Agents. Persons interested in becoming a FT or PT home based travel agents and becoming an approved CLIA or IATAN agent can go to http://www.homebasedtravelagents.org/
Home Based Travel Agents who attend the travel agent school will be able to earn 65 points toward three certification levels along with 14 credits from the Travel Institute. The rate is $599 plus port fees and taxes. The western Caribbean cruise sails roundtrip from New York. Information is at http://www.ntmllc.info/z/cjUucD9taT01NDI3OSZwPTEmdT0xNzc3MjEwJmxpPTQxNDgx/index.html.
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