Apple Vacations' new weather guarantee ensures a free replacement vacation if a category one hurricane or higher, interrupts a vacation for more than 24 hours.
Apple Vacations will automatically include its weather guarantee with the purchase of "AV-OK" travel insurance at the time of booking with participating hotels.
The weather guarantee is valid for vacations to participating hotels in Cancun, the Riviera Maya, Cozumel, Punta Cana and Jamaica when flying USA3000 Airlines or any other Apple-dedicated vacation flight for hotel stays between Aug. 15 and Oct. 31, 2006.
For complete details on Apple's weather guarantee, visit www.applevacations.com/weather
Learn How to Become A Travel Agent... Open your own Home Based Travel Agency
Sunday
Wednesday
About Club Med
History
In the summer of 1950, the very first Club Med guests lined the shores of Majorca, not really knowing what to expect. What they discovered was an entire vacation completely dedicated to the pursuit of relaxation, discovery and excitement, in an atmosphere so inviting they just had to come back. It was the birth of the all-inclusive concept, setting the standard for all vacations that followed.
Total All-Inclusive
Do what you want, when you want, with whomever you want, thanks to Total All-Inclusive vacations. Club Med was founded on the idea of allowing people to mingle, play, explore and relax without price tags ever getting in the way. Now, Club Med Total All inclusive vacations bring that philosophy to life like never before. Every meal, drink, activity and amenity is included, from the room where you'll rest your head to the fins you'll strap on your feet. Just choose what to do, who to do it with and how soon to do it again.
Sports & Activities
Since Club Med was founded, the activities offered at each village have been an integral part of our product offering. Over the years, the variety of sports, activities, entertainment options and ways to relax has grown exponentially. All are enjoyed here with the assistance of a highly trained staff featuring the latest in equipment. From sailboats and kayaks to golf courses and tennis courts, the playing fields at Club Med are among the finest in the world.
Accommodations
Accommodations at Club Med villages in the U.S., Bahamas, Caribbean and Mexico feature all the modern amenities, including CD alarm clocks, in-room safes, mini-fridges and cable or satellite TV. Air-conditioning is also standard in all Club Med villages, and additional conveniences like Internet access and video game systems are widely available as well.
Dining Experience
We have a passion for helping guests make memories, and they can taste it in every bite. Using the best and freshest ingredients, the chefs of Club Med deliver gourmet creations that are sure to delight every palate. Whether it's a quick breakfast before a day of relaxing on the beach or a romantic sunset dinner, every meal is a memory in the making.
Kids
Our famous Children's Clubs offer age-appropriate, supervised fun for all children, from toddlers to teens. While the youngest children are face painting at our wildly popular circus school, the older kids are earning applause with daring performances on the flying trapeze. Parents will cherish the time together as a family and savor their time with other adults knowing their children are in the caring, capable hands of our professional Children's Club staff.
In the summer of 1950, the very first Club Med guests lined the shores of Majorca, not really knowing what to expect. What they discovered was an entire vacation completely dedicated to the pursuit of relaxation, discovery and excitement, in an atmosphere so inviting they just had to come back. It was the birth of the all-inclusive concept, setting the standard for all vacations that followed.
Total All-Inclusive
Do what you want, when you want, with whomever you want, thanks to Total All-Inclusive vacations. Club Med was founded on the idea of allowing people to mingle, play, explore and relax without price tags ever getting in the way. Now, Club Med Total All inclusive vacations bring that philosophy to life like never before. Every meal, drink, activity and amenity is included, from the room where you'll rest your head to the fins you'll strap on your feet. Just choose what to do, who to do it with and how soon to do it again.
Sports & Activities
Since Club Med was founded, the activities offered at each village have been an integral part of our product offering. Over the years, the variety of sports, activities, entertainment options and ways to relax has grown exponentially. All are enjoyed here with the assistance of a highly trained staff featuring the latest in equipment. From sailboats and kayaks to golf courses and tennis courts, the playing fields at Club Med are among the finest in the world.
Accommodations
Accommodations at Club Med villages in the U.S., Bahamas, Caribbean and Mexico feature all the modern amenities, including CD alarm clocks, in-room safes, mini-fridges and cable or satellite TV. Air-conditioning is also standard in all Club Med villages, and additional conveniences like Internet access and video game systems are widely available as well.
Dining Experience
We have a passion for helping guests make memories, and they can taste it in every bite. Using the best and freshest ingredients, the chefs of Club Med deliver gourmet creations that are sure to delight every palate. Whether it's a quick breakfast before a day of relaxing on the beach or a romantic sunset dinner, every meal is a memory in the making.
Kids
Our famous Children's Clubs offer age-appropriate, supervised fun for all children, from toddlers to teens. While the youngest children are face painting at our wildly popular circus school, the older kids are earning applause with daring performances on the flying trapeze. Parents will cherish the time together as a family and savor their time with other adults knowing their children are in the caring, capable hands of our professional Children's Club staff.
Monday
Know your customers
You want to sell things to your customers, not become their best friend. True enough. But really getting to know your customers will enable you to sell them even more. And if, in the process, you become friends, well what's wrong with that?
It's just another reason so many "traditional" agents are heading home - to have a more satisfying person-to-person working experience. Getting to know your customers is not quite like getting to know your friends. It's a more professional and targeted process. You get to know your friends over time, almost accidentally.
Getting to know your customers is - or should be - a much more deliberate process.You will also want to know things about your customers that you don't know about your friends - unless, of course, your friends are also your customers. (And that, by the way, is a goal you should set for yourself.)You want to know everything you can about how and where they travel. Their likes and dislikes. Their must-haves and their can-do-withouts. Their budget guidelines and their cost/value equations.
In short, you want to know everything you possibly can to be able to tailor the perfect cruise, or tour, or hotel, or resort for them. GETTING TO KNOW YOUR CUSTOMERS ONE AT A TIME. I am a big believer in making the process of getting to know your customers a formal and professional one.
The Client Profile Form provides a sort of "road map" to the most important information you will want to have about each of your customers and it is an excellent start on capturing that information. If you don't have the Client Profile Form, it's easy enough to develop your own.
Just think of all the things you'd like to know about your customers and add them to the list. If you miss any, you'll surely discover them along the way and you can add them. You can fill out the Client Profile Form over time, as you go along, as your customers come to you for different things. Or you can do it all at once.
I would like to urge you to adopt the second course of action. If you are hesitant, think about your doctor. A good doctor will "take your history" on the first visit. She may even request records from your previous physician. This is a professional way to do business, and why should you be any less professional in conducting your travel marketing business? Sending a customer on the wrong cruise may not be as life threatening as giving them the wrong medication, but believe me they'll holler just as loud.
So if you haven't "taken a history" from your customers, do it soon. It will position you in your clients' minds as a true professional and send the unmistakable message that you are serious about earning their business. It will also put some psychological pressure on you (the good kind) to get serious about promoting and building your business.
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR CUSTOMERS ALL AT ONCE. Once you have a good supply of Client Profile Forms on a good supply of customers you will start to notice patterns. You will notice, perhaps, that most of your customers prefer cruising vacations and that most of the cruisers prefer the Western Caribbean. Or you may notice that you have a surprising number of golfers in your customer base. Or that the majority of your customers are over 50.
These little nuggets of information are trying to tell you something. They are trying to tell you where to focus your efforts. They are suggesting areas and travel products you should get to know more about. They are telling you what areas of your business are not very productive and which you might want to consider scaling back on or dropping altogether.
If you have gathered all this information, you'll be in a position to take advantage of special opportunities. When that great deal on a cruise and golf vacation comes along you won't be sitting there saying, "Gosh, I know I must have some customers who'd go for this, but who?" Instead, you'll be able to develop a list of hot prospects in short order and make some serious money.GETTING TO KNOW CUSTOMERS YOU HAVEN'T EVEN MET.
Those of you who have been reading this newsletter for a while know how keen I am on the concept of specializing. If you have specialized in your business, then you already know certain very crucial facts about your customers because you almost demand that they fit a certain profile before you let them become customers.
You also know that there are a lot of folks out there who fit your profile who aren't customers simply because you haven't met them yet. And because you know so much about them, it' relatively easy to find them. All it takes is a little creativity.
Even if you don't specialize, you can still take advantage of hot sellers among the customers you do know. For example, if you've had great success with a certain all-inclusive resort package, look for common traits among the folks who bought that package. All retirees? All young, recently divorced singles?
This gives you an idea of the type of people you haven't even met yet who are good prospects for that product.Getting to know your customers is an on-going project. To be successful at it you need to be organized and professional and above all you need to record your data. Don't say to yourself, "I must remember that Jim's an avid golfer." Write it down. Better yet, write it down
Reprinted, with permission, from The Home-Based Travel Agent Newsletter.
It's just another reason so many "traditional" agents are heading home - to have a more satisfying person-to-person working experience. Getting to know your customers is not quite like getting to know your friends. It's a more professional and targeted process. You get to know your friends over time, almost accidentally.
Getting to know your customers is - or should be - a much more deliberate process.You will also want to know things about your customers that you don't know about your friends - unless, of course, your friends are also your customers. (And that, by the way, is a goal you should set for yourself.)You want to know everything you can about how and where they travel. Their likes and dislikes. Their must-haves and their can-do-withouts. Their budget guidelines and their cost/value equations.
In short, you want to know everything you possibly can to be able to tailor the perfect cruise, or tour, or hotel, or resort for them. GETTING TO KNOW YOUR CUSTOMERS ONE AT A TIME. I am a big believer in making the process of getting to know your customers a formal and professional one.
The Client Profile Form provides a sort of "road map" to the most important information you will want to have about each of your customers and it is an excellent start on capturing that information. If you don't have the Client Profile Form, it's easy enough to develop your own.
Just think of all the things you'd like to know about your customers and add them to the list. If you miss any, you'll surely discover them along the way and you can add them. You can fill out the Client Profile Form over time, as you go along, as your customers come to you for different things. Or you can do it all at once.
I would like to urge you to adopt the second course of action. If you are hesitant, think about your doctor. A good doctor will "take your history" on the first visit. She may even request records from your previous physician. This is a professional way to do business, and why should you be any less professional in conducting your travel marketing business? Sending a customer on the wrong cruise may not be as life threatening as giving them the wrong medication, but believe me they'll holler just as loud.
So if you haven't "taken a history" from your customers, do it soon. It will position you in your clients' minds as a true professional and send the unmistakable message that you are serious about earning their business. It will also put some psychological pressure on you (the good kind) to get serious about promoting and building your business.
GETTING TO KNOW YOUR CUSTOMERS ALL AT ONCE. Once you have a good supply of Client Profile Forms on a good supply of customers you will start to notice patterns. You will notice, perhaps, that most of your customers prefer cruising vacations and that most of the cruisers prefer the Western Caribbean. Or you may notice that you have a surprising number of golfers in your customer base. Or that the majority of your customers are over 50.
These little nuggets of information are trying to tell you something. They are trying to tell you where to focus your efforts. They are suggesting areas and travel products you should get to know more about. They are telling you what areas of your business are not very productive and which you might want to consider scaling back on or dropping altogether.
If you have gathered all this information, you'll be in a position to take advantage of special opportunities. When that great deal on a cruise and golf vacation comes along you won't be sitting there saying, "Gosh, I know I must have some customers who'd go for this, but who?" Instead, you'll be able to develop a list of hot prospects in short order and make some serious money.GETTING TO KNOW CUSTOMERS YOU HAVEN'T EVEN MET.
Those of you who have been reading this newsletter for a while know how keen I am on the concept of specializing. If you have specialized in your business, then you already know certain very crucial facts about your customers because you almost demand that they fit a certain profile before you let them become customers.
You also know that there are a lot of folks out there who fit your profile who aren't customers simply because you haven't met them yet. And because you know so much about them, it' relatively easy to find them. All it takes is a little creativity.
Even if you don't specialize, you can still take advantage of hot sellers among the customers you do know. For example, if you've had great success with a certain all-inclusive resort package, look for common traits among the folks who bought that package. All retirees? All young, recently divorced singles?
This gives you an idea of the type of people you haven't even met yet who are good prospects for that product.Getting to know your customers is an on-going project. To be successful at it you need to be organized and professional and above all you need to record your data. Don't say to yourself, "I must remember that Jim's an avid golfer." Write it down. Better yet, write it down
Reprinted, with permission, from The Home-Based Travel Agent Newsletter.
Friday
Disney World Offers Magic Your Way Free Dining
The Walt Disney World Resort is remindng travel agents that the booking window on its Magic Your Way with Free Dining package will close on June 4, 2006.
The five-night Free Dining package features a savings of more than $190 per adult and is available most nights between Aug. 13 and Sept. 30.
The package starts at $435 per adult and includes accommodations, theme park tickets and the Disney Dining plan, good for one table-service meal, one quick-service meal, and one select snack, per person, per night.
The Dining Plan is valid at more than 100 select Walt Disney World restaurants. Walt Disney World further reminds agents of the package's value after AAA and TIA unveiled their summer travel forecast, which suggests that clients will be looking for more ways to economize when vacationing in coming months, and food purchases were the most popular item consumers said that they'll be examining for cost savings.
Agents can also assist clients in their efforts to economize by highlighting Disney's Magic Express, a complimentary transportation service that takes Disney Resort guests directly from the airport to their hotel, saving on transportation costs, tolls, and parking. For more information or reservations, call 800-327-2996 or visit www.disneytravelagents.com.
The five-night Free Dining package features a savings of more than $190 per adult and is available most nights between Aug. 13 and Sept. 30.
The package starts at $435 per adult and includes accommodations, theme park tickets and the Disney Dining plan, good for one table-service meal, one quick-service meal, and one select snack, per person, per night.
The Dining Plan is valid at more than 100 select Walt Disney World restaurants. Walt Disney World further reminds agents of the package's value after AAA and TIA unveiled their summer travel forecast, which suggests that clients will be looking for more ways to economize when vacationing in coming months, and food purchases were the most popular item consumers said that they'll be examining for cost savings.
Agents can also assist clients in their efforts to economize by highlighting Disney's Magic Express, a complimentary transportation service that takes Disney Resort guests directly from the airport to their hotel, saving on transportation costs, tolls, and parking. For more information or reservations, call 800-327-2996 or visit www.disneytravelagents.com.
Carnival Launches New Booking Promotion
Carnival Cruise Lines has launched a new promotion awarding Home Based Travel Agents with Reward Dollars toward select departures.
The Booking Bonanza promotion awards agents with up to $10 per booking for cruises of up to three days, $20 per booking for four days, $25 per booking for five days, $30 per booking for six to eight days, and $50 per booking 12 days or longer.
Carnival places Reward Dollars earned by travel agents in an in-house account, where agents can redeem them for cruises.
Bookings must be fully deposited by July 17. Reward Dollars will be awarded by Aug. 8 and must be redeemed by Dec. 13 for select cruises departing through April 2008. To participate, travel agents must complete a registration form at www.bookccl.com. For more information, visit www.bookccl.com or www.carnival.com.
The Booking Bonanza promotion awards agents with up to $10 per booking for cruises of up to three days, $20 per booking for four days, $25 per booking for five days, $30 per booking for six to eight days, and $50 per booking 12 days or longer.
Carnival places Reward Dollars earned by travel agents in an in-house account, where agents can redeem them for cruises.
Bookings must be fully deposited by July 17. Reward Dollars will be awarded by Aug. 8 and must be redeemed by Dec. 13 for select cruises departing through April 2008. To participate, travel agents must complete a registration form at www.bookccl.com. For more information, visit www.bookccl.com or www.carnival.com.
Europe Forecasts Record American Travelers in 2006
The European Travel Commission (ETC) is forecasting Europe will receive more American travelers this year than the record 13.12 million set in 2000.
"This is a fantastic opertunity for Home Based Travel agents" said Paul Davis CEO of www.homebasedtravelagents.org
In an upward trajectory since 2003, U.S. arrivals in Europe climbed past 12 million, to 12.6 million in 2005 -- four percentage points from 2000, surpassing the ETC's projected 12.4 million.
"It's wonderful to see rising numbers for a third straight year," said Conrad Van Tiggelen, ETC chairman. "While Europe is America's favorite overseas destination with more than 40% of overseas travelers, we are always communicating new reasons to visit." The commission said
"Europe hopping" is the latest trend with travelers -- mixing countries in unusual ways mainly due to low-cost carriers. The film industry also has helped with movies such as The Da Vinci Code sparking more travel.
France, Britain and Scotland have teamed up with Eurostar, the high-speed train connecting Paris and London, to offer Da Vinci Code travels and an online promotion ( www.jointhequest.com) with prizes including free lifetime travel on Eurostar and accommodations for five years at the Ritz Hotel in Paris and Claridge's in London.
American cruise passenger totals grew by 9 percent last year to 9.76 million, (out of 11.18 million worldwide). Northern Europe and the Mediterranean were among the top destinations, and this year the Med is hotter yet. Major cruise lines and ports are ratcheting up projects to meet demand.
Retiring Baby Boomers herald a coming wave of mature travelers. With more leisure time, they are catching on to the European pastime of renting a countryside villa for a month.
While Provence, Tuscany and Greece remain popular, lesser-known regions also make great home bases for day trips. Slovakia, for example, is positioned for exploring the Adriatic, Budapest, Vienna and Krakow. For more information, visit www.visiteurope.com.
"This is a fantastic opertunity for Home Based Travel agents" said Paul Davis CEO of www.homebasedtravelagents.org
In an upward trajectory since 2003, U.S. arrivals in Europe climbed past 12 million, to 12.6 million in 2005 -- four percentage points from 2000, surpassing the ETC's projected 12.4 million.
"It's wonderful to see rising numbers for a third straight year," said Conrad Van Tiggelen, ETC chairman. "While Europe is America's favorite overseas destination with more than 40% of overseas travelers, we are always communicating new reasons to visit." The commission said
"Europe hopping" is the latest trend with travelers -- mixing countries in unusual ways mainly due to low-cost carriers. The film industry also has helped with movies such as The Da Vinci Code sparking more travel.
France, Britain and Scotland have teamed up with Eurostar, the high-speed train connecting Paris and London, to offer Da Vinci Code travels and an online promotion ( www.jointhequest.com) with prizes including free lifetime travel on Eurostar and accommodations for five years at the Ritz Hotel in Paris and Claridge's in London.
American cruise passenger totals grew by 9 percent last year to 9.76 million, (out of 11.18 million worldwide). Northern Europe and the Mediterranean were among the top destinations, and this year the Med is hotter yet. Major cruise lines and ports are ratcheting up projects to meet demand.
Retiring Baby Boomers herald a coming wave of mature travelers. With more leisure time, they are catching on to the European pastime of renting a countryside villa for a month.
While Provence, Tuscany and Greece remain popular, lesser-known regions also make great home bases for day trips. Slovakia, for example, is positioned for exploring the Adriatic, Budapest, Vienna and Krakow. For more information, visit www.visiteurope.com.
Wednesday
Prospecting for Clients
Prospecting for Clients, it's as easey as 1-2-3
1. Create a Memory Jogger
Review the memory jogger below, then make your own name and address list of potential clients.
1. All your relatives
2. Your spouse’s relatives
3. Your friends, spouse’s friends
4. Coworkers
5. All your neighbors
6. All your old neighbors
7. Second
8. People from church
9. People from old jobs
10. Clubs, teams and organizations you belong to
11. Xmas, card list
12. Who do you know that owns a business?
13. Doctors
14. Dentist
15. Mechanic
16. Insurance agent
17. Druggist
18. Lawyer
19. Avon lady
20. Bank employees
21. Restaurant personnel
22. Teachers
23. School friends
24. Accountant
25. Friends of people you have met
26. Who is getting married that you know
27. Go through your address book
28.
29.
30.
Add more "Memory Joggers" to our list. Make it as long as you can!
2. Send each person a "great news' letter.
Sample of the "Great News letter"
Today’s date
Your Name
111 Your St
Hometown, State zip
(Your phone number)
Dear XXXX,
Hi! Just wanted to share the great news. I’m now a Travel Agent. What ever your travel needs are, feel free to call me, day or night. I’ll get you the best deal in town.
I have access to fantastic internet specials. Please visit my website at www .????? .com for the newest and best internet money saving deals.
I’m inclosing several of my new business cards. Please pass them along, to any one you know who is planning a trip, vacation, cruise or honeymoon. Hope to hear from you soon.
All the best
You'r signature
Type Your Name (lets face it, no one can read your signature)
Note: if you re-type this on your computer all you have to do is change the name of addressee each time you print it.
3. Call each person on the list
After one week call each person on the list to see if they received your letter. Ask them if they are planning any trips or vacations within the next 12 months and if they would like any brochures.
PS
Also ask them if they know of any one who is planning a trip or vacations.
1. Create a Memory Jogger
Review the memory jogger below, then make your own name and address list of potential clients.
1. All your relatives
2. Your spouse’s relatives
3. Your friends, spouse’s friends
4. Coworkers
5. All your neighbors
6. All your old neighbors
7. Second
8. People from church
9. People from old jobs
10. Clubs, teams and organizations you belong to
11. Xmas, card list
12. Who do you know that owns a business?
13. Doctors
14. Dentist
15. Mechanic
16. Insurance agent
17. Druggist
18. Lawyer
19. Avon lady
20. Bank employees
21. Restaurant personnel
22. Teachers
23. School friends
24. Accountant
25. Friends of people you have met
26. Who is getting married that you know
27. Go through your address book
28.
29.
30.
Add more "Memory Joggers" to our list. Make it as long as you can!
2. Send each person a "great news' letter.
Sample of the "Great News letter"
Today’s date
Your Name
111 Your St
Hometown, State zip
(Your phone number)
Dear XXXX,
Hi! Just wanted to share the great news. I’m now a Travel Agent. What ever your travel needs are, feel free to call me, day or night. I’ll get you the best deal in town.
I have access to fantastic internet specials. Please visit my website at www .????? .com for the newest and best internet money saving deals.
I’m inclosing several of my new business cards. Please pass them along, to any one you know who is planning a trip, vacation, cruise or honeymoon. Hope to hear from you soon.
All the best
You'r signature
Type Your Name (lets face it, no one can read your signature)
Note: if you re-type this on your computer all you have to do is change the name of addressee each time you print it.
3. Call each person on the list
After one week call each person on the list to see if they received your letter. Ask them if they are planning any trips or vacations within the next 12 months and if they would like any brochures.
PS
Also ask them if they know of any one who is planning a trip or vacations.
Monday
Books that will help grow your business
I am often asked about books that will help home based travel agents become a better salesperson. Below I have listed the best books to do that. I have given a quick review of them to help you.
Customer Satisfaction is Worthless: Customer Loyalty is Priceless by Jeffrey Gitomer. If you really want to build the loyalty of your clients, and you have time to read just one book, make it this one! It is the perfect book to take on a trip because it has short sections that can be read in just a couple of minutes, and if you are interrupted you haven't lost a long, complicated thought. Buy it and read it!
How To Work a Room by Susan Roane. If you are at all uncomfortable going to networking functions, get the paperback so you can underline it, dogear it and put sticky notes in it. The author does an incredible job of showing you how to be comfortable networking in a social atmosphere. Well worth the $8 - $10 it will cost.
Customer Satisfaction is Worthless: Customer Loyalty is Priceless by Jeffrey Gitomer. If you really want to build the loyalty of your clients, and you have time to read just one book, make it this one! It is the perfect book to take on a trip because it has short sections that can be read in just a couple of minutes, and if you are interrupted you haven't lost a long, complicated thought. Buy it and read it!
How To Work a Room by Susan Roane. If you are at all uncomfortable going to networking functions, get the paperback so you can underline it, dogear it and put sticky notes in it. The author does an incredible job of showing you how to be comfortable networking in a social atmosphere. Well worth the $8 - $10 it will cost.
Sunday
China to offer VIP Terracotta Warrior Tour
Only 30 people per day, worldwide, will be allowed to go on a special VIP private tour by the Chinese Government and visit areas not open to the general public!
According to Paul Davis President and CEO of a1Travel-Vacation.com "these lucky 30 people will be able to examine close-up the famed Terracotta Warriors and Horses! Hold artifacts in there hands worth millions of dollars! Create there own rubbings on ancient stone slabs!"
The Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses are the most significant archeological excavations of the 20th century. Work is ongoing at this site, which is around 1.5 kilometers east of Emperor Qin Shi Huang's Mausoleum, Lintong County, Shaanxi province. The Terracotta Warriors and Horses is a sensational archeological find. It was listed by UNESCO as one of the world cultural heritage sites.
The Terracotta Warriors represent only a small portion of the eight thousand strong underground army buried in front of the Emperor Qinshihuang's tomb (r. 221-207 BC) to defend him in the afterlife. The craftsmanship attested by each of the statues is as stupendous as the scale of the project. Altogether over 7,000 soldiers, horses, chariots, and even weapons have been unearthed from these pits. Most of them have been restored to their former grandeur.
Upon ascending the throne at the age of 13 (in 246 BC), Qin Shi Huang, later the first Emperor of all China, had work begun on his mausoleum. It took 11 years to finish. It is speculated that many buried treasures and sacrificial objects had accompanied the emperor in his after life.
A group of peasants uncovered some pottery while digging for a well nearby the royal tomb in 1974. It caught the attention of archaeologists immediately. They came to Xian in droves to study and to extend the digs. They had established beyond doubt that these artifacts were associated with the Qin Dynasty (211 --206 BC).
Persons interested in going to China and being part of this special VIP China government tour of the Terracotta Warriors should call 1800-619-8646 for further information.
According to Paul Davis President and CEO of a1Travel-Vacation.com "these lucky 30 people will be able to examine close-up the famed Terracotta Warriors and Horses! Hold artifacts in there hands worth millions of dollars! Create there own rubbings on ancient stone slabs!"
The Terra Cotta Warriors and Horses are the most significant archeological excavations of the 20th century. Work is ongoing at this site, which is around 1.5 kilometers east of Emperor Qin Shi Huang's Mausoleum, Lintong County, Shaanxi province. The Terracotta Warriors and Horses is a sensational archeological find. It was listed by UNESCO as one of the world cultural heritage sites.
The Terracotta Warriors represent only a small portion of the eight thousand strong underground army buried in front of the Emperor Qinshihuang's tomb (r. 221-207 BC) to defend him in the afterlife. The craftsmanship attested by each of the statues is as stupendous as the scale of the project. Altogether over 7,000 soldiers, horses, chariots, and even weapons have been unearthed from these pits. Most of them have been restored to their former grandeur.
Upon ascending the throne at the age of 13 (in 246 BC), Qin Shi Huang, later the first Emperor of all China, had work begun on his mausoleum. It took 11 years to finish. It is speculated that many buried treasures and sacrificial objects had accompanied the emperor in his after life.
A group of peasants uncovered some pottery while digging for a well nearby the royal tomb in 1974. It caught the attention of archaeologists immediately. They came to Xian in droves to study and to extend the digs. They had established beyond doubt that these artifacts were associated with the Qin Dynasty (211 --206 BC).
Persons interested in going to China and being part of this special VIP China government tour of the Terracotta Warriors should call 1800-619-8646 for further information.
Friday
How Home Based Travel Agents can win the search engine war
Home based travel agents can compete and win the search engine war against the Big boys by using the "Local Search" feature of search engines. This is a method of marketing that is rarely used by big online companies, meaning almost all of your competitors are not doing this kind of marketing and it could be an amazing way to get even more qualified buyers!
What is Local Search?
When you are looking locally for auto parts, scrap booking supplies, shoes, or even a real estate agent, you probably use the yellow pages. Search engines are now trying to take online users to offline businesses and have taken great steps to make "local search" effective, useful, and fun.
Through several "local search tools", consumers can find what they want in their local community. Search engines have also made it very easy for you, an online merchant, to target these "local" audiences without a costly or time-consuming investment
Why will Local Search Marketing benefit home based travel agents?
What is Local Search?
When you are looking locally for auto parts, scrap booking supplies, shoes, or even a real estate agent, you probably use the yellow pages. Search engines are now trying to take online users to offline businesses and have taken great steps to make "local search" effective, useful, and fun.
Through several "local search tools", consumers can find what they want in their local community. Search engines have also made it very easy for you, an online merchant, to target these "local" audiences without a costly or time-consuming investment
Why will Local Search Marketing benefit home based travel agents?
Through various "local search" features, a customer within a 50-mile radius of your business could search for your product's keywords and your business listing could display as #1 in the search results. Because the customer found you through "local search", they could place an order over the Internet or phone.
In general, "local search" is a great way to get more qualified traffic. Sales, is a numbers game: the more people to your site the more sales will occur. Local buyers purchase from local companies and if you are not marketing locally, then you are missing out on this market.
In summary, "local search" is a great way to target local audiences. Even if you don't have a physical business for them to purchase your products, there are many other reasons why customers will still choose to work with you, a local company.
If you're looking to take the next step, this is a great place to start:
Just local search companies:
Search Engines:
Mobile phone local search engines:
Paid local bid tools:
(Search for "regional targeting" and read the instructions therein.)
Thursday
Your own Private Label Travel Agency Web Site
You can now make sales and earn commissions while you are asleep and your clients are awake and on your web site.
Your web site will allow your clients to book Air Tickets, Cruises, Vacation Packages, Hotels, Cars and Rail tkts on your website 24/7. It has a complete tracking system, so you can see who booked what and when. You can also use it yourself to make bookings.
You will receive 70% to 80% of the commissions booked on the web site.
70% for First $5,000 in Gross Commissions 80% for Everything Over $5,000
Some of the commissions paid by suppliers are up to 17%
There are several new FREE bonuses included in this deal:
1. Invitations to Seminars-at-Sea
2. Your own Marketing System including "Direct Mail" & "Passport Online Email"
3. Special discount rates on over 9,000 Blocked Cruise Cabins including Carnival brands .
4. State-of-the-Art Booking Tools
5. Daily Conference Calls with Industry Experts (listen in to what the experts say)
6. WebEx Listen-On-Demand Travel Agent Training Modules
7. FREE Weekly Travel Agent Newsletter.
The Web Site Set-up Fee is $95. (Sign up before June 1st and Fee is Waved) The operational fee is $30. per month or $300 per year if paid up front (get two months FREE)
For less than $1.00 per day, you can have a website that will book your clients 24/7. Just one booking per year and it could pay for it's self.
If you want to participate in this new upgraded client booking web site and also receive all the other NEW added benefits. Make a check for $300. to What A Trip and send it to 156 Wheeler road, Central Islip, NY 11722 Today. If you want to pay it by credit card call Sue at 1800-619-8646 with your credit card information. Remember after June 1st the price goes up to $395.
Paul Davis
President and CEO
www.HomeBasedTravelAgents.org
Wednesday
Carnival Launches Home Based Travel Agent Training Program
Carnival Cruise Lines has launched a new online home based travel agent training program offering sales and marketing techniques. Available within Carnival's travel agent Internet portal
Carnival University Online is divided into seven chapters, each focusing on a different component of the line's business.Chapters include "Who Is Carnival Today," providing an overview of the brand; "Identifying Clients," offering detailed information on Carnival's demographics; "Cruise Choices," covering accommodation types, onboard activities, and destination and shore excursion options; and "Sales Climate Today and Tomorrow," with information on the evolution of the travel agency distribution system and how agencies must adapt to a changing business landscape.
The "Special Sales: Group and Cruising for Charity" chapter offers tips for developing group business, while "Booking/Marketing Support" provides an overview of Carnival's wide-ranging sales tools and resources.
There's also a "Make Sure They Know Before They Go" section providing with information and tips on embarkation, packing, attire and other areas. After reading each chapter, home based travel agents must answer a series of multiple-choice questions correctly before moving on to the next chapter.
Chapters can be completed individually and the program does not have to be completed in one session. Upon successful completion of the program, travel agents receive a certificate of completion signed by the Carnival regional vice president for their particular region.
Carnival's travel agent portal is designed as a "one-stop shop" to fulfill agents' sales and marketing needs, with more than 1,000 pages of content and a dynamic booking engine linked directly to Carnival's reservations system. For more information, visit www.bookccl.com or call the line's business development services department at 800-327-7276.
Tuesday
How to Get 100 Clients in 30 Days without Spending a Dime
Ask any “Super Star” travel agent (I’m talking about the ones with annual leisure sales over one million dollars) what the best way to build your business is and you will more than likely hear one word- referrals.
The practice of asking for referrals is without a doubt the most cost effective and the fastest way to build a massive travel business. Your closing ratios will also be much higher with referrals than from any other source of advertising.
The biggest mistake a salesperson can make is to only ask occasionally for referrals. You must ask for referrals from every person you know and everyone you meet. Ask after every sales presentation-even if the person you are talking to does not buy from you.
The practice of asking for referrals is without a doubt the most cost effective and the fastest way to build a massive travel business. Your closing ratios will also be much higher with referrals than from any other source of advertising.
The biggest mistake a salesperson can make is to only ask occasionally for referrals. You must ask for referrals from every person you know and everyone you meet. Ask after every sales presentation-even if the person you are talking to does not buy from you.
Don't stop at one or two referrals either. Try for a minimum of 10 from every person you know and everyone you meet. It's never-ending. You must not be shy about this and you should never pass up the opportunity. Ever. I have been using the same “tried and true” script (committed to memory) for years with tremendous success.
I have created hundreds of clients with this word–for-word script. You too can experience immediate success if you follow it precisely and commit it to memory.
Warning: Do not alter the script or your success rate will drop dramatically. Ask for referrals at the end of every phone call. It doesn't matter if it is a friend, client, prospect, or well-dressed stranger you met on the street and exchanged business cards. At the end of every conversation say,
Most of my clients (Everyone I know) are (is) kind enough to share the names of people they believe will benefit from the service I provide. Who is the first person that comes to mind?"
You've done two things with this statement. You've let them know everyone does it and it's the right thing to do. In fact, it may be rude not to give you some referrals. You've also positioned yourself as a professional with something to offer. You're not asking for a favor. You want to know who you can help. When they give you a name the only thing you should say is,
"Who else?"
Don't ask the person giving the referral for the referral’s last name, phone number or anything else (yet). Your only goal in this stage of asking for the referrals is to get as many first names as possible and to get the person giving them to you "on a roll". After every name the person gives you, the only thing you say will be, "Who else?"
When they start to slow down after giving you a few names, give them some help: Who do you know that loves to travel? Who is the wealthiest person you know? Who do you know that recently retired? Who is your best friend? Who is your boss? Get creative when jogging their memory and after they give you someone, ask, who else?
They might know 5 millionaires so don't go off that subject. Try to build a list of as many names as possible. My record is 17 referrals on one phone call and I've had a few clients who have followed-up by giving me their entire contact database.
One friend prepared a list for me with 78 people on it. He included notes on each person to give me an idea about who I would be calling and tips on how I could sell them. This type of person is known as a "center of influence". They can make your career for you so seek them out.
Ultra Pro Tip: Tell the people giving you referrals what your record is and they’ll try hard to beat it.
After you get your list of names, go back through the list with the person who gave them to you and get all the contact information on each person. This is where you will also want to ask for a personal story or tidbit of information that you can use to create rapport with each referral when you contact them.
What are their interests? Do they have kids? Are they involved with any charities? etc.This is vital because even though the people you will be contacting were referred by a friend, you may catch the person at a bad time and they may attempt to blow you off the phone.
(I know this may seem hard to believe, but some people aren’t waiting for us to call them and sell them a cruise)
This is where I will assume you are a professional salesperson and know how not to get blown off the phone. I remember a referral I called years ago. I did a great job of getting past the receptionist and charmed my way through the Executive Assistant but when I got to the referral, he was in terrible mood. Not only did he try to immediately blow me off the phone, he was downright rude.
But when I said, "John, Carl tells me you're very active with the Make-a-Wish Foundation, this must be very rewarding for you. I have some ideas I believe can make difference and I'd like to share them with you"John's tone instantly changed. He apologized to me for being curt and long story short, became a client.
Side Bar: You must be sincere in your conversations. You can't fake interest in people simply to get a sale. After you have gone through the entire referral list and have all of the contact information and personal tidbits, ask the person, who gave you the names, "Who is the first person you would call if you were me?
You'd be surprised at what additional info you will pick up with this question. You'll hear things like: "Call Bob, I just overheard him saying the other day he wanted to surprise his wife with a second honeymoon?""Call Mary, she just inherited 4 million dollars." Call John, he is the decision maker for all of the incentive travel for Ford Motor Company"
This referral strategy is for professionals who provide great service. You don't have to be a 20 year travel industry veteran but you do have to treat people’s referrals with the utmost professionalism.
Monday
Theme Cruise for Plus-Size Women
This fall, Figure Magazine, a plus-size fashion magazine, is hosting the second annual Figure at Sea cruise Nov. 4-11 on the Carnival Glory.
The Caribbean cruise will offer plus-size women entertaining and life-enriching activities, including the chance to learn to be a runway model, participate in a fashion show, and possibly be discovered as a Figure Magazine model.
Figure Magazine, now in its fourth year of publication, has partnered with Carnival Cruise Lines on the cruise. Motivational speakers and fashion industry experts will be onboard to conduct seminars on personal beauty, fashion, women's health, fitness, positive thinking and motivation.
Boarding in Port Canaveral, the ship will call at Key West, Belize and Costa Maya. The week will culminate in the gala fashion show. Speakers include Morgen Schick, a Ford model and author of "Your Makeover," and Jessica Weiner, author of "Do I Look Fat In This?" www.figuremagazine.com.
The Caribbean cruise will offer plus-size women entertaining and life-enriching activities, including the chance to learn to be a runway model, participate in a fashion show, and possibly be discovered as a Figure Magazine model.
Figure Magazine, now in its fourth year of publication, has partnered with Carnival Cruise Lines on the cruise. Motivational speakers and fashion industry experts will be onboard to conduct seminars on personal beauty, fashion, women's health, fitness, positive thinking and motivation.
Boarding in Port Canaveral, the ship will call at Key West, Belize and Costa Maya. The week will culminate in the gala fashion show. Speakers include Morgen Schick, a Ford model and author of "Your Makeover," and Jessica Weiner, author of "Do I Look Fat In This?" www.figuremagazine.com.
Thursday
Warning, Deadline for Required Passports for ALL USA Travlers
The new U.S. government regulation requiring all travelers entering or re-entering the U.S. to be in possession of a valid U.S. passport is starting Dec. 31, 2006.
"Less than 25% of US citizens have passports. With the deadline fast approaching, don't wait and jeopardize your vacation next winter, there will be a huge last minute rush and many will be denied" said Paul Davis President of www.HomeBasedTravelAgents.org .
Applicants can obtain the passport application from any post office branch or can download it in advance at http://usps.com/passport Proof of citizenship (original documents only) and current photo identification (a driver's license) also are required. Prospective passport-seekers can bring their own passport photos or have them taken at the booth. Fees are as follows: passport, $67; execution fee, $30; and photo fee, $15.
"Less than 25% of US citizens have passports. With the deadline fast approaching, don't wait and jeopardize your vacation next winter, there will be a huge last minute rush and many will be denied" said Paul Davis President of www.HomeBasedTravelAgents.org .
Applicants can obtain the passport application from any post office branch or can download it in advance at http://usps.com/passport Proof of citizenship (original documents only) and current photo identification (a driver's license) also are required. Prospective passport-seekers can bring their own passport photos or have them taken at the booth. Fees are as follows: passport, $67; execution fee, $30; and photo fee, $15.
Travel Agent Month in U.S. Virgin Islands
The Virgin Islands Hotel & Tourism Association wants home based travel agents to take advantage of the fact that September is Travel Agent Month in the Virgin Islands.
They are offering a program for agents of three nights in St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas at participating properties for large discounts. Many hotels are participating in the offer. A valid IATAN card must be shown at each location. For more information, call 340-774-6835 or visit www.sttstjhta.com
They are offering a program for agents of three nights in St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas at participating properties for large discounts. Many hotels are participating in the offer. A valid IATAN card must be shown at each location. For more information, call 340-774-6835 or visit www.sttstjhta.com
Tuesday
Travel Videos Help Sell More Travel
Travel Videos allow home based travel agents to generate excitement and desire amongst your clients by visually showing what different destinations have to offer from a cultural and historical perspective along with exciting things to do in each location.
Most successful home based travel agents own a complete library of travel videos that they loan out to potential clients. Travel Videos also educate you on destinations, making you a valuable resource for your customers to seek advice from.
With the growing number of travel purchases being made on the internet, travel agents today need to be more informed, more educated, and more experience in travel destinations to gain a loyal customer following, Travel Videos help you gain that education at a fraction of the cost.
Most successful home based travel agents own a complete library of travel videos that they loan out to potential clients. Travel Videos also educate you on destinations, making you a valuable resource for your customers to seek advice from.
With the growing number of travel purchases being made on the internet, travel agents today need to be more informed, more educated, and more experience in travel destinations to gain a loyal customer following, Travel Videos help you gain that education at a fraction of the cost.
Why buy Travel Videos?
- Travel Videos can help you sell destinations to your clients
- Recommending Travel Videos can help your customers get the most out of their vacation
- Travel Videos can help you plan itineraries for your clients
- Travel Videos make an excellent way to show your customer appreciation by giving them a gift that will help them enjoy the vacation you arranged for them.
Monday
Travel Agent Appreciation Month
Apple Vacations is celebrating its annual Travel Agent Appreciation month starting May 1. This yearly event is marked by a series of specials prepared just for travel agents. "We are very aware of just how important home based travel agents are for us," said Tim Mullen, senior vice president of Apple Vacations. "They are the backbone of the travel industry and we want them to know how much we appreciate their continued support."
One special event: 100 percent commission when Apple gives away two special commission packages each week whereby the agent will win 100 percent of the package price as his or her commission for bookings made at the Hotel Chain of the Week.
Apple is also offering Fantastic Fams, listings escorted and non-escorted fams on the Travel Agent Appreciation month website with a form to download with pertinent information on how to book the fam they want.
The company also is offering Hawaii incentives with up to 17 percent commission on all Hawaii on-line bookings as well as a chance to win a Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed and one of six multi-island trips.
More information about incentives, bonuses and travel specials is at www.myappleonline.com and www.applevacations.com/applelovesyou.
One special event: 100 percent commission when Apple gives away two special commission packages each week whereby the agent will win 100 percent of the package price as his or her commission for bookings made at the Hotel Chain of the Week.
Apple is also offering Fantastic Fams, listings escorted and non-escorted fams on the Travel Agent Appreciation month website with a form to download with pertinent information on how to book the fam they want.
The company also is offering Hawaii incentives with up to 17 percent commission on all Hawaii on-line bookings as well as a chance to win a Sheraton Sweet Sleeper Bed and one of six multi-island trips.
More information about incentives, bonuses and travel specials is at www.myappleonline.com and www.applevacations.com/applelovesyou.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)