"We just added 6,500 Carnival cabins, 1,600 Norwegian cabins and 7,100 Royal Caribbean / Celebrity cabins to our Discount Block Space Program. We now have more discount blocked cruise space than any other host agency in the USA" said Paul Davis CEO of Home Based Travel Agents.
Home Hased Travel Agents is pleased to announce that this week's update to our Group Block Space Program offers members the widest selection of inventory available for upcoming cruises. We highly recommend that you reference our collection of block space before promoting any other options to your clients. By doing so, you and your valued customers can take advantage of favorable pricing, cabin availability and amenities that may not be available through other sales channels. Many of today's most popular cruises are featured in our exclusive 'members only' offering. Our inventories now exceed 40,000 cabins with departures ranging from August 2006 through April 2008.
Learn How to Become A Travel Agent... Open your own Home Based Travel Agency
Friday
Wednesday
Identifying "Shoppers"
by: Phil & Doris Davidoff, CTCs, CTIEs, MCCs
There is nothing more frustrating than spending an hour or two with potential clients and having them leave without any commitment to buy. Too often, the unprepared sales agent has been taken in by shoppers who have no real plans to travel or who are collecting information to determine what to book with a no frills, discount travel promotor (or with a relative).
While these situations cannot be avoided 100% of the time, there are some tell-tale signs of shoppers which should be easily identified. We believe most shoppers can be spotted within the first five minutes of a sales conversation.
Make sure that you (and your agents) understand the following:
Always get the full name of the clients you are working with, whether in person or on the telephone. If the prospects won't identify themselves, they are not really potential clients for you.
Obtain a phone number (and an email address if they have one) early in the transaction. Sometimes, a prospect will provide a good reason why no number is available or why not to call, but failure to provide a contact is a major sign of a shopper.
Be specific in determining when the prospects are planning to travel. Those who cannot even be sure of a range of weeks are either dreaming of the future or collecting information for their children's school projects.
If the prospect appears to know all the details about a prospective trip (even more than you do), they can easily have been discussing it with one or two agents before coming to your agency. Beware of the price shopper. A "real" prospect may have obtained some information from the Internet, but, when a prospect has a great amount of information before coming to you, they should either be ready to book right now or they are probably shoppers.
You should spend as little time as possible with people who do not provide contact information. Politely advise them that you do not provide information to people you don't know and cannot contact.
The dreamer (including the prospect who might travel at some time, but definitely isn't ready yet) can be dealt with by quickly giving him or her a brochure or two and asking to be contacted when specific travel time is known. DO NOT do this with a prospect who is ready to travel. For a "real" prospect, you want to interview them before offering them any brochures.Yes, you might (very rarely) turn off a "real" prospect, but the hours you save not spending a lot of time with shoppers will more than make up for the one in fifty or a hundred you misjudged and lost.
The price shopper has real potential for travel, but probably wants such a large discount (or rebate) that is may not be a profitable transaction. Try to close the sale, but if this type client refuses to commit, move them out politely, but quickly, by suggesting that they check around for the best price they can find and then contact you to see if you can match or beat it.
There is nothing more frustrating than spending an hour or two with potential clients and having them leave without any commitment to buy. Too often, the unprepared sales agent has been taken in by shoppers who have no real plans to travel or who are collecting information to determine what to book with a no frills, discount travel promotor (or with a relative).
While these situations cannot be avoided 100% of the time, there are some tell-tale signs of shoppers which should be easily identified. We believe most shoppers can be spotted within the first five minutes of a sales conversation.
Make sure that you (and your agents) understand the following:
Always get the full name of the clients you are working with, whether in person or on the telephone. If the prospects won't identify themselves, they are not really potential clients for you.
Obtain a phone number (and an email address if they have one) early in the transaction. Sometimes, a prospect will provide a good reason why no number is available or why not to call, but failure to provide a contact is a major sign of a shopper.
Be specific in determining when the prospects are planning to travel. Those who cannot even be sure of a range of weeks are either dreaming of the future or collecting information for their children's school projects.
If the prospect appears to know all the details about a prospective trip (even more than you do), they can easily have been discussing it with one or two agents before coming to your agency. Beware of the price shopper. A "real" prospect may have obtained some information from the Internet, but, when a prospect has a great amount of information before coming to you, they should either be ready to book right now or they are probably shoppers.
You should spend as little time as possible with people who do not provide contact information. Politely advise them that you do not provide information to people you don't know and cannot contact.
The dreamer (including the prospect who might travel at some time, but definitely isn't ready yet) can be dealt with by quickly giving him or her a brochure or two and asking to be contacted when specific travel time is known. DO NOT do this with a prospect who is ready to travel. For a "real" prospect, you want to interview them before offering them any brochures.Yes, you might (very rarely) turn off a "real" prospect, but the hours you save not spending a lot of time with shoppers will more than make up for the one in fifty or a hundred you misjudged and lost.
The price shopper has real potential for travel, but probably wants such a large discount (or rebate) that is may not be a profitable transaction. Try to close the sale, but if this type client refuses to commit, move them out politely, but quickly, by suggesting that they check around for the best price they can find and then contact you to see if you can match or beat it.
Tuesday
REMINDER: POLAR TRAINING!
This is a great way to learn about the most powerful system for booking Princess. Participation is free! There are twodifferent topics to choose from: Groups or Bookings. Watch our presenter demonstrate the system online via your browser as you listen via conference call. Please note that space is limited and available on a first-come,first-served basis. So arrive on time to ensure access to theseinformative sessions!
POLAR TRAINING :
July 6, 9:30 AM PST - BOOKINGS 1:30 PM PST GROUPS
July 11, 9:30 AM PST - GROUPS 1:30 PM PST - BOOKINGS
July 19, 9:30 AM PST - BOOKINGS 1:30 PM PST - GROUPS
July 27, 9:30 AM PST - GROUPS 1:30 PM PST - BOOKINGS
Go online and visit Princess OneSource for additional information and instructions for joining the sessions. Or, save this email and follow the instructions below.---How to join the POLAR Online Webinar---The Webinar is conducted online and via conference call at the same time. Follow these instructions to join.Join the conference call:1. Dial the following toll-free number: 866.512.09042. Enter the Participant code: 37708213. Listen and enjoy!
Join the online presentation:1. Click the link below to begin the Webinar http://www.momentumconferencing.com/2. Click the link titled "WebProfessional - Join or Start a meeting"underneath the "Actions" section of the Momentum Conferencing home page. 3. On the next screen select "Participant" then click Submit.4. Enter the Participant code: 37708215. Watch and enjoy!
POLAR TRAINING :
July 6, 9:30 AM PST - BOOKINGS 1:30 PM PST GROUPS
July 11, 9:30 AM PST - GROUPS 1:30 PM PST - BOOKINGS
July 19, 9:30 AM PST - BOOKINGS 1:30 PM PST - GROUPS
July 27, 9:30 AM PST - GROUPS 1:30 PM PST - BOOKINGS
Go online and visit Princess OneSource for additional information and instructions for joining the sessions. Or, save this email and follow the instructions below.---How to join the POLAR Online Webinar---The Webinar is conducted online and via conference call at the same time. Follow these instructions to join.Join the conference call:1. Dial the following toll-free number: 866.512.09042. Enter the Participant code: 37708213. Listen and enjoy!
Join the online presentation:1. Click the link below to begin the Webinar http://www.momentumconferencing.com/2. Click the link titled "WebProfessional - Join or Start a meeting"underneath the "Actions" section of the Momentum Conferencing home page. 3. On the next screen select "Participant" then click Submit.4. Enter the Participant code: 37708215. Watch and enjoy!
Passports Required
Please be advised that Martinique now requires passports for all US Citizens traveling to the country. State issued birth certificates and photo IDs are no longer acceptable.
Thank you in advance for sharing this information with your clients going to Martinique. Detailed information on Foreign Entry Requirements can be found on the US Department of State website below.
http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/brochures/brochures_1229.html
WEST INDIES, French - Islands include Guadeloupe, Isles des Saintes, La Desirade, Marie Galante, Saint Barthelemy, St. Martin, and Martinique. *Passport required. Visa not required for tourist/business stay of up to 90 days months. Stays exceeding 90 days require a visa, which will need a passport (3 months validity after departure), 4 long stay visa applications, 5 recent passport sized photos, proof of sufficient funds (3 copies), proof of valid medical insurance, police clearance (obtained from police department in U.S. – 3 copies), and letter certifying no paid activity will occur.
For further information, consult the Embassy of France (202/944-6000). Internet: www.info-france-usa.org
PASSPORTS:
U.S. citizens who travel to a country where a valid U.S. passport is not required will need documentary evidence of their U.S. citizenship and identity. Proof of U.S. citizenship includes an expired U.S. passport or an original birth certificate. A certified copy of the birth certificate is also acceptable, but it must have the registrar’s signature and a raised, impressed, embossed, or multicolored seal.
If you were born abroad, a Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of Citizenship, or Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States will suffice. To prove identity, a valid driver’s license or government identification card are acceptable provided they identify you by physical description or photograph. However, for travel overseas and to facilitate reentry into the U.S., a valid U.S. passport is the best documentation available and unquestionably proves your U.S. citizenship.
Before you send your passport through the mail to apply for a visa, sign it in ink, and write in pencil your current address and daytime telephone number in the space provided. This will help the U.S. Postal Service return it to you should it become separated from the envelope during processing.
Some countries require that your U.S. passport be valid at least 6 months or longer beyond the dates of your trip. If your passport expires before the required validity, you will have to apply for a new one. Please check with the Embassy or nearest Consulate of the country that you plan to visit for their requirements.
Some Middle Eastern or African countries will not issue visas or allow entry if your passport indicates travel to Israel. Consult the National Passport Information Center, telephone1-877-4USA-PPT (1-877-487-2778 or TDD/ TTY: 1-888-874-7793) or http://www.travel.state.gov/passport/index.html for guidance if this applies to you.
On effective dates below, all travelers to or from the Americas, the Caribbean and Bermuda will be required to have a passport or other document that establishes the bearer’s identity and nationality to enter or re-enter the United States.
On December 31, 2006, the requirement will be applied to all air and sea travel to and from Bermuda, the Caribbean, Central and South America, Mexico, and Canada. On December 31, 2007, the requirement extended to all air, sea, and land border crossings.
For more information or to confirm effective dates, visit the State Department’s consular web site www.travel.state.gov or the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s web site at www.dhs.gov.
VISAS:
If a visa is required, obtain it from the appropriate foreign consular representative before proceeding abroad. Allow sufficient time for processing your visa application, especially if you are applying by mail. Most foreign consular representatives are located in principal cities, and in many instances, a traveler may be required to obtain visas from the consular office in the area of his/her residence.
IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE TRAVELER TO OBTAIN VISAS, WHERE REQUIRED, FROM THE APPROPRIATE EMBASSY OR NEAREST CONSULATE OF THE COUNTRY YOU ARE PLANNING TO VISIT.
As soon as you receive your visa, check it to make sure no mistakes were made. Processing and visa fees vary, and most fees may not be refundable. For specific details, consult the Embassy or Consulate of the country you plan to visit.
IMMUNIZATIONS:
Under the International Health Regulations adopted by the World Health Organization, a country may require International Certificates of Vaccination against yellow fever, especially if you are traveling from an area of the world that is infected with yellow fever. Prophylactic medication for malaria and certain other preventive measures are advisable for travel to some countries. No immunizations are required to return to the United States. Detailed health information may be obtained from your local healthcare provider or by contacting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, telephone 1-877- 394-8747 or Internet: http://www.cdc.gov/.
HIV/HIV TESTING:
An increasing number of countries have established regulations regarding HIV testing, particularly for long-term visitors. Although many are listed here, check with the Embassy or Consulate of the country that you plan to visit to verify if this is a requirement for entry.
ADDITIONAL FEES:
All international flights are subject to U.S. Immigration and U.S. Customs fees paid in advance as part of your ticket. In addition, many countries have departure fees that are sometimes collected at the time of ticket purchase or upon exiting the foreign country.
Thank you in advance for sharing this information with your clients going to Martinique. Detailed information on Foreign Entry Requirements can be found on the US Department of State website below.
http://travel.state.gov/travel/tips/brochures/brochures_1229.html
WEST INDIES, French - Islands include Guadeloupe, Isles des Saintes, La Desirade, Marie Galante, Saint Barthelemy, St. Martin, and Martinique. *Passport required. Visa not required for tourist/business stay of up to 90 days months. Stays exceeding 90 days require a visa, which will need a passport (3 months validity after departure), 4 long stay visa applications, 5 recent passport sized photos, proof of sufficient funds (3 copies), proof of valid medical insurance, police clearance (obtained from police department in U.S. – 3 copies), and letter certifying no paid activity will occur.
For further information, consult the Embassy of France (202/944-6000). Internet: www.info-france-usa.org
PASSPORTS:
U.S. citizens who travel to a country where a valid U.S. passport is not required will need documentary evidence of their U.S. citizenship and identity. Proof of U.S. citizenship includes an expired U.S. passport or an original birth certificate. A certified copy of the birth certificate is also acceptable, but it must have the registrar’s signature and a raised, impressed, embossed, or multicolored seal.
If you were born abroad, a Certificate of Naturalization, Certificate of Citizenship, or Report of Birth Abroad of a Citizen of the United States will suffice. To prove identity, a valid driver’s license or government identification card are acceptable provided they identify you by physical description or photograph. However, for travel overseas and to facilitate reentry into the U.S., a valid U.S. passport is the best documentation available and unquestionably proves your U.S. citizenship.
Before you send your passport through the mail to apply for a visa, sign it in ink, and write in pencil your current address and daytime telephone number in the space provided. This will help the U.S. Postal Service return it to you should it become separated from the envelope during processing.
Some countries require that your U.S. passport be valid at least 6 months or longer beyond the dates of your trip. If your passport expires before the required validity, you will have to apply for a new one. Please check with the Embassy or nearest Consulate of the country that you plan to visit for their requirements.
Some Middle Eastern or African countries will not issue visas or allow entry if your passport indicates travel to Israel. Consult the National Passport Information Center, telephone1-877-4USA-PPT (1-877-487-2778 or TDD/ TTY: 1-888-874-7793) or http://www.travel.state.gov/passport/index.html for guidance if this applies to you.
On effective dates below, all travelers to or from the Americas, the Caribbean and Bermuda will be required to have a passport or other document that establishes the bearer’s identity and nationality to enter or re-enter the United States.
On December 31, 2006, the requirement will be applied to all air and sea travel to and from Bermuda, the Caribbean, Central and South America, Mexico, and Canada. On December 31, 2007, the requirement extended to all air, sea, and land border crossings.
For more information or to confirm effective dates, visit the State Department’s consular web site www.travel.state.gov or the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s web site at www.dhs.gov.
VISAS:
If a visa is required, obtain it from the appropriate foreign consular representative before proceeding abroad. Allow sufficient time for processing your visa application, especially if you are applying by mail. Most foreign consular representatives are located in principal cities, and in many instances, a traveler may be required to obtain visas from the consular office in the area of his/her residence.
IT IS THE RESPONSIBILITY OF THE TRAVELER TO OBTAIN VISAS, WHERE REQUIRED, FROM THE APPROPRIATE EMBASSY OR NEAREST CONSULATE OF THE COUNTRY YOU ARE PLANNING TO VISIT.
As soon as you receive your visa, check it to make sure no mistakes were made. Processing and visa fees vary, and most fees may not be refundable. For specific details, consult the Embassy or Consulate of the country you plan to visit.
IMMUNIZATIONS:
Under the International Health Regulations adopted by the World Health Organization, a country may require International Certificates of Vaccination against yellow fever, especially if you are traveling from an area of the world that is infected with yellow fever. Prophylactic medication for malaria and certain other preventive measures are advisable for travel to some countries. No immunizations are required to return to the United States. Detailed health information may be obtained from your local healthcare provider or by contacting the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, telephone 1-877- 394-8747 or Internet: http://www.cdc.gov/.
HIV/HIV TESTING:
An increasing number of countries have established regulations regarding HIV testing, particularly for long-term visitors. Although many are listed here, check with the Embassy or Consulate of the country that you plan to visit to verify if this is a requirement for entry.
ADDITIONAL FEES:
All international flights are subject to U.S. Immigration and U.S. Customs fees paid in advance as part of your ticket. In addition, many countries have departure fees that are sometimes collected at the time of ticket purchase or upon exiting the foreign country.
Sunday
30,000 Discount Cruise Cabiens Now Available
Home Based-Travel Agency announced today that they have reserved more than 30,000 cruise cabins on 15 cruise lines, featureing over 500 sailing dates. We highly recommend that our home based travel agents reference our collection of block space before promoting any other options to your clients. By doing so, you and your valued customers can take advantage of favorable pricing, cabin availability and extra amenities that may not be available through other sales channels.
Many of today's most popular cruises are featured in our exclusive 'members only' offering and inventories now exceed 30,000 cabins with departures ranging from August 2006 through April 2008. You can quickly search this inventory by departure date, cruise line, ship name, itinerary, departure port, group name and option date to find a recommendation or match to your client's requests.
"With so many exclusive cabins, Home Based-Travel Agency can offer travel agents rates that they won't find anywhere else, as well as space on cruises that are sold out for other travel agencies," said Paul Davis, CEO of Home Based-Travel Agency. "Not only will they save money, but most of those cabins include extra amenities to give customers more bang for their buck."
Home Based-Travel Agency 30,000+ cabins are especially useful to large families, church groups, clubs, corporate incentives, and other groups. While other travel agencies will be unable to provide even one cabin on sold out cruises, Home Based-Travel Agency may be able to offer multiple cabins to that group, so they can all go on the trip together and not have to worry about changing dates or itineraries.
In addition, Home Based-Travel Agency has arranged extra amenities including onboard coupon books, bathrobes, free photos, prepaid gratuities, free bottles of wine with dinner, shipboard credit to spend on anything from drinks to shore excursions, and more.
"Imagine scouring cruise web sites to find everyone is sold out of the cruise you want," said Paul Davis CEO of Home Based-Travel Agency. "Then you call Home Based-Travel Agency to find that not only do we have space, but we're selling it at a fraction of the brochure rate and we include hundreds of dollars in free bonus amenities as well."
Home Based-Travel Agency is one of the nation's best host travel agencies, with over 35 years of business experence. Travel Agents can earn up to 90% of all commissions including over-rides, so if you are a travel agent looking for a great host agency, you should call 1800-619-8646
Many of today's most popular cruises are featured in our exclusive 'members only' offering and inventories now exceed 30,000 cabins with departures ranging from August 2006 through April 2008. You can quickly search this inventory by departure date, cruise line, ship name, itinerary, departure port, group name and option date to find a recommendation or match to your client's requests.
"With so many exclusive cabins, Home Based-Travel Agency can offer travel agents rates that they won't find anywhere else, as well as space on cruises that are sold out for other travel agencies," said Paul Davis, CEO of Home Based-Travel Agency. "Not only will they save money, but most of those cabins include extra amenities to give customers more bang for their buck."
Home Based-Travel Agency 30,000+ cabins are especially useful to large families, church groups, clubs, corporate incentives, and other groups. While other travel agencies will be unable to provide even one cabin on sold out cruises, Home Based-Travel Agency may be able to offer multiple cabins to that group, so they can all go on the trip together and not have to worry about changing dates or itineraries.
In addition, Home Based-Travel Agency has arranged extra amenities including onboard coupon books, bathrobes, free photos, prepaid gratuities, free bottles of wine with dinner, shipboard credit to spend on anything from drinks to shore excursions, and more.
"Imagine scouring cruise web sites to find everyone is sold out of the cruise you want," said Paul Davis CEO of Home Based-Travel Agency. "Then you call Home Based-Travel Agency to find that not only do we have space, but we're selling it at a fraction of the brochure rate and we include hundreds of dollars in free bonus amenities as well."
Home Based-Travel Agency is one of the nation's best host travel agencies, with over 35 years of business experence. Travel Agents can earn up to 90% of all commissions including over-rides, so if you are a travel agent looking for a great host agency, you should call 1800-619-8646
Friday
Carnival to go cellular (phones, that is)
Carnival Cruise Lines, in a joint venture with Wireless Maritime Services, will outfit its fleet of 22 ships with technology that will enable guests with any cell phone service to make or receive calls as they normally do on land, no matter how far out to sea they are.
The Carnival Triumph already has the service installed, and Carnival’s remaining 21 vessels will be fitted with the technology by the first quarter of 2007.
“Consumers view cell phones as a necessity in today’s world,” said Carnival CEO Bob Dickinson. “We’ve been exploring cellular phone service for some time.”
Calls will be charged at international roaming rates as determined by the carrier, and will be billed directly to the passenger’s normal cell phone bill. The technology also will enable people to send and receive text messages on their phone and hand-held wireless devices like Blackberry’s.
The technology already is available fleet wide all of Norwegian Cruise Line, on most of the ships for both Royal Caribbean Cruises brands (Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity) and three of Regent Seven Seas’ ships.
The Carnival Triumph already has the service installed, and Carnival’s remaining 21 vessels will be fitted with the technology by the first quarter of 2007.
“Consumers view cell phones as a necessity in today’s world,” said Carnival CEO Bob Dickinson. “We’ve been exploring cellular phone service for some time.”
Calls will be charged at international roaming rates as determined by the carrier, and will be billed directly to the passenger’s normal cell phone bill. The technology also will enable people to send and receive text messages on their phone and hand-held wireless devices like Blackberry’s.
The technology already is available fleet wide all of Norwegian Cruise Line, on most of the ships for both Royal Caribbean Cruises brands (Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity) and three of Regent Seven Seas’ ships.
Thursday
Luxurious Makeovers
You may have seen the recent reality TV show on the Discovery Channel about the renovation of Royal Caribbean's Sovereign of the Seas. If you missed the show, what you didn't see was Royal Caribbean spending millions of dollars to give Sovereign of the Seas a whole new look and a young vibrant attitude. 62 verandahs were added and the dark and closed-in buffet was scooped out and expanded.
Lounges were rearranged to maximize space such as Bolero, a latin flavored lounge which features salsa and merengue was added. They also added à la carte food options like Johnny Rocket's, Seattle's Best Coffee, and Ben & Jerry's ice cream. And last but not least, two incredible teen and children areas were created.
Cruise lines spend a large amount of time and tons of money on making sure their products are the most luxurious way to travel and that boast state-of-the-art amenities, making them a destination in themselves.
Holland America Line just spent $225 million on its fleetwide Signature of Excellence enhancements fleetwide adding amenities to their ships, including the Culinary Arts Center presented by Food & Wine magazine, teens-only activity areas and all new cabin amenities including flat-panel TVs and plush-top Mariner's Dream Beds.
And just two weeks ago, Celebrity Cruises' Century set sail again following a $55-million makeover that took just 5 weeks to complete. The revitalization of the 70,000 ton Century is the line's most extensive refurbishment to-date.
A number of expansions and cabins have been added to the ship, including 314 verandahs, 14 new suites, 10 staterooms ranging from inside to verandah categories, and an expanded number of Concierge Class category staterooms. Among Century's new amenities is a specialty restaurant called "Murano" which will be adorned with Murano glass chandeliers and feature a menu crafted by renowned Master Chef Michel Roux.
Wednesday
New Ships - They Just Keep Coming
Over the past thirty days, three new ships have entered cruise service, one each with Royal Caribbean International (RCI), Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL) for its Norwegian America division and Princess Cruises.
Anyone who has any interest in travel should be aware of RCI’s Freedom of the Seas. The largest cruise ship ever built, Freedom received broad publicity throughout the country, including live broadcasts on the Today show from her decks. We’ve heard that several winter sailings are already sold out.
While Freedom of the Seas attracted the most attention, NCL’s Norwegian America Line took delivery of the Pride of Hawaii. With its all U.S. crew, the Pride will cruise among the Hawaiian Islands. While cruise ships are usually christened by a “godmother,” Pride of Hawaii was christened by Senator Daniel Inouye of Hawaii, the first man ever to christen a cruise ship. Senator Inouye’s efforts were central to the legislation required to allow NCL to develop U.S-crewed ships for the Hawaii market.
Rounding out the month’s new ships, the Crown Princess features 900 staterooms with private balconies, second in number of balconies only to the Queen Mary II. While no new ships will enter service during the rest of this year, seven new ships are scheduled to start cruising in 2007.
New ships provide more choices for floating vacations. The additional 30,000+ berths on these ten ships (the most recent three plus seven in 2007) will keep competition high among major cruise lines and should help keep prices very affordable. Cruising, especially in the Caribbean, is, by far, the best vacation value right now.
Anyone who has any interest in travel should be aware of RCI’s Freedom of the Seas. The largest cruise ship ever built, Freedom received broad publicity throughout the country, including live broadcasts on the Today show from her decks. We’ve heard that several winter sailings are already sold out.
While Freedom of the Seas attracted the most attention, NCL’s Norwegian America Line took delivery of the Pride of Hawaii. With its all U.S. crew, the Pride will cruise among the Hawaiian Islands. While cruise ships are usually christened by a “godmother,” Pride of Hawaii was christened by Senator Daniel Inouye of Hawaii, the first man ever to christen a cruise ship. Senator Inouye’s efforts were central to the legislation required to allow NCL to develop U.S-crewed ships for the Hawaii market.
Rounding out the month’s new ships, the Crown Princess features 900 staterooms with private balconies, second in number of balconies only to the Queen Mary II. While no new ships will enter service during the rest of this year, seven new ships are scheduled to start cruising in 2007.
New ships provide more choices for floating vacations. The additional 30,000+ berths on these ten ships (the most recent three plus seven in 2007) will keep competition high among major cruise lines and should help keep prices very affordable. Cruising, especially in the Caribbean, is, by far, the best vacation value right now.
Tuesday
Outstanding offer from Scandinavian Airlines
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) just knocked 25% OFF flights to 4 European cities from New York:- New York-Copenhagen ... $299 each way- New York-Stockholm ... $299 each way- New York-Oslo ... $299 each way- New York-Helsinki ... $299 each wayThe fuel surcharge is already included. Additional taxes areapproximately $80-$120.You can depart between September 1-October 29 and December 14-23 and return within 30 days. Book by June 30
Monday
Sandals & Beaches Launch E-Brochures for Agents
E-brochures allow home based travel agents to present their clients with online versions of Sandals' and Beaches' sales tools in a format that allows clients to literally turn pages like a traditional brochure -- but online and with the home based travel agent's name, logo, and contact information present on every page.
Additionally, when an agent's customer links to a Sandals or Beaches page through the e-brochure, their e-branding will be in place when they arrive to Sandals.com or Beaches.com, thanks to a partnership with E-Marketing, Inc., an electronic marketing firm specializing in travel industry applications.
Agents will be able to register for their own co-branded e-brochures at all 2006 Ultra Convention locations, or online at www.sandals.com. There's still time to register for this year's Ultra Conventions! To do so, contact your local Sandals Resorts sales manager or call the sales department at 1-800-48-SPECIAL.
The remaining 2006 Sandals & Beaches Ultra Conventions will take place in Atlantic City June 15 at the Taj Mahal Resort & Casino; in Toronto, July 13 at the Toronto Congress Center; and in Los Angeles, July 20 at the Manhattan Beach Marriott Hotel. For more information, call 800-48-SPECIAL or visit www.sandals.com.
Additionally, when an agent's customer links to a Sandals or Beaches page through the e-brochure, their e-branding will be in place when they arrive to Sandals.com or Beaches.com, thanks to a partnership with E-Marketing, Inc., an electronic marketing firm specializing in travel industry applications.
Agents will be able to register for their own co-branded e-brochures at all 2006 Ultra Convention locations, or online at www.sandals.com. There's still time to register for this year's Ultra Conventions! To do so, contact your local Sandals Resorts sales manager or call the sales department at 1-800-48-SPECIAL.
The remaining 2006 Sandals & Beaches Ultra Conventions will take place in Atlantic City June 15 at the Taj Mahal Resort & Casino; in Toronto, July 13 at the Toronto Congress Center; and in Los Angeles, July 20 at the Manhattan Beach Marriott Hotel. For more information, call 800-48-SPECIAL or visit www.sandals.com.
Saturday
The College Market
By: Dr. Alan R. Miller, CTIE, CTC, MCC
There are some great opportunities involving graduation gifts from parents, vacation travel, weekend trips, cruises, and even honeymoons. And when you sell to the student, suddenly that student's parents become potential clients as well.Indeed, college students represent only a small part of the college market. Other potential clients include professors, alumni, classes, administration/staff, sports teams, and team-related organizations.
For example, professors often travel for personal or family vacations, but they also travel to obtain knowledge, present papers, and attend conferences. Many are off during the summer and a good part of January.Colleges also have alumni associations, which plan reunions and trips for former students, many of which are international.
Contact your local college's alumni office to determine how to submit a trip proposal.Colleges have courses, including art, music, and history, which include programs where students study the subject abroad. For example, art classes visit the museums of Europe. These trips are usually arranged by a professor who prefers to use the services of travel agents. As an agent, you can offer to be a guest speaker in a class that matches your expertise. This is an excellent method to develop a relationship with the professor and with students. These trips include transportation, hotels, events, and other arrangements.In addition, colleges have staff, administrators, and other personnel.
These people go on vacations, attend conferences, and travel for business. Another potential source of clients is college sporting events and other activities, including festivals, dance competitions, and entertainment. Trips can be arranged around these events. Teams and other organizations travel to events and need transportation, lodging, and special items.
There are many methods you can use to tap into this market. Beyond presentations to classes, you can also meet with other campus organizations, such as fraternities, sororities, and clubs. Many school organizations run fundraisers or similar types of events.
Work towards becoming the official travel agency for the college and all official college travel will be booked through your agency.You can also offer to be a regular guest columnist in the campus newspaper or a travel commentator on the college radio station. Set up a regular table at the university unions. Organizations and vendors market their services at these tables, which are in high traffic areas. Not only do students pass by these tables but faculty, administrators, and staff also frequent them. Have trips set up and book these people on the spot.
Colleges also offer many opportunities for inexpensive advertising. You can place advertisements in the school newspaper on a continuing basis. Also try to get the school paper to run a story on you. Advertise at or sponsor sporting and other events on campus. Use campus bulletin boards let students and faculty know about your agency and the products you offer. Determine the organization leaders and have them market your agency to their membership. Work toward developing a reputation on campus by satisfying your customers and providing outstanding service.
There are some great opportunities involving graduation gifts from parents, vacation travel, weekend trips, cruises, and even honeymoons. And when you sell to the student, suddenly that student's parents become potential clients as well.Indeed, college students represent only a small part of the college market. Other potential clients include professors, alumni, classes, administration/staff, sports teams, and team-related organizations.
For example, professors often travel for personal or family vacations, but they also travel to obtain knowledge, present papers, and attend conferences. Many are off during the summer and a good part of January.Colleges also have alumni associations, which plan reunions and trips for former students, many of which are international.
Contact your local college's alumni office to determine how to submit a trip proposal.Colleges have courses, including art, music, and history, which include programs where students study the subject abroad. For example, art classes visit the museums of Europe. These trips are usually arranged by a professor who prefers to use the services of travel agents. As an agent, you can offer to be a guest speaker in a class that matches your expertise. This is an excellent method to develop a relationship with the professor and with students. These trips include transportation, hotels, events, and other arrangements.In addition, colleges have staff, administrators, and other personnel.
These people go on vacations, attend conferences, and travel for business. Another potential source of clients is college sporting events and other activities, including festivals, dance competitions, and entertainment. Trips can be arranged around these events. Teams and other organizations travel to events and need transportation, lodging, and special items.
There are many methods you can use to tap into this market. Beyond presentations to classes, you can also meet with other campus organizations, such as fraternities, sororities, and clubs. Many school organizations run fundraisers or similar types of events.
Work towards becoming the official travel agency for the college and all official college travel will be booked through your agency.You can also offer to be a regular guest columnist in the campus newspaper or a travel commentator on the college radio station. Set up a regular table at the university unions. Organizations and vendors market their services at these tables, which are in high traffic areas. Not only do students pass by these tables but faculty, administrators, and staff also frequent them. Have trips set up and book these people on the spot.
Colleges also offer many opportunities for inexpensive advertising. You can place advertisements in the school newspaper on a continuing basis. Also try to get the school paper to run a story on you. Advertise at or sponsor sporting and other events on campus. Use campus bulletin boards let students and faculty know about your agency and the products you offer. Determine the organization leaders and have them market your agency to their membership. Work toward developing a reputation on campus by satisfying your customers and providing outstanding service.
Wednesday
Girls Getaway Month
June is Girls Getaway Month at Apple Vacations. Book through June 30 for departures in the fall, and girlfriends traveling together enjoy everything from complimentary spa treatments and shopping tours to Margarita parties, room upgrades and free stays for the third female in the room.
"There's obviously a need for women to get together and rejuvenate. From mothers and daughters to college roommate reunions to bridesmaid's escapes, women are seeing an emotional value in leaving their husbands and kids at home and reconnecting with their girlfriends." said Paul Davis CEO of www.homebasedtravelagents.org
We wanted to create special packages that add lots of extra values to their girl-time." Four nights at Copacabana Beach Resort in Riviera Maya, for example, start from $699.99 per person including roundtrip charter air from Chicago, transfers, all meals and drinks and a free manicure.
A weekend getaway from Newark to Punta Cana at Bavaro Princess All-Suites Resort Spa and Casino starts from $679.99 per person and includes round-trip air, transfers, three nights accommodations, complimentary 20-minute massage, complimentary motorized water sports, and an open water dive for certified divers.
A full list of Girls Getaways and more details can be found at www.applevacations.com.
"There's obviously a need for women to get together and rejuvenate. From mothers and daughters to college roommate reunions to bridesmaid's escapes, women are seeing an emotional value in leaving their husbands and kids at home and reconnecting with their girlfriends." said Paul Davis CEO of www.homebasedtravelagents.org
We wanted to create special packages that add lots of extra values to their girl-time." Four nights at Copacabana Beach Resort in Riviera Maya, for example, start from $699.99 per person including roundtrip charter air from Chicago, transfers, all meals and drinks and a free manicure.
A weekend getaway from Newark to Punta Cana at Bavaro Princess All-Suites Resort Spa and Casino starts from $679.99 per person and includes round-trip air, transfers, three nights accommodations, complimentary 20-minute massage, complimentary motorized water sports, and an open water dive for certified divers.
A full list of Girls Getaways and more details can be found at www.applevacations.com.
Tuesday
Online, Home Based Travel Agent Training from Princess
Princess Cruises on Monday launched its new online Princess Academy, which is a training and benefits program for home based travel agents. Princess Academy provides travel agents with an extensive curriculum that not only offers product and sales training, but also rewards them with a free graduation cruise and the same benefits received by members of the line's Captain's Circle loyalty program.
According to Paul Davis CEO of www.homebasedtravelagents.org "This program will be offered free of charge, Princess Academy enables home based travel agents to increase their Princess expertise. Agents can choose from elective courses to learn about topics most relevant to their business, including categories such as sales opportunities, onboard programs, destinations, customer service and helpful technology. And, agents will move up through four tiers, gaining "stripes" as they successfully complete the course work to earn greater rewards, such as a FREE Cruises".
A similar academy for Cunard Line will debut shortly, featuring courses unique to the line. Princess and Cunard share POLAR Online, a cruise line reservation system. Princess Academy consists of more than 25 classes, representing approximately 15 hours of total course work to reach the highest Commodore level.
Agents access the courses through the new dedicated OneSource Travel Agent Center portal (at www.onesourcecruises.com or through www.princess.com) and can complete their courses at home, at the office, or anywhere they have access to the Internet. Three required classes on destinations, the cruise experience, and customer service start off the program.
To reach the higher program levels, agents must also complete elective courses of their choosing. Electives include destination details, dining options, working with POLAR Online, wedding programs, group sales and other topics. As agents complete the courses, they will earn their stripes as First Officer, Staff Captain, Captain and finally Commodore.
Agents who reach the top rank of Commodore status earn the opportunity to sail on a free Academy graduation cruise. Each year, 1,000 cabins will be set aside for these agents who successfully reach the program's highest level. In addition, as they reach each new rank, agents earn benefits that correspond to those in the Captain's Circle. Upon sailing, agents will be given those same perks, such as free Internet access, upgraded stateroom amenities, free mini-bar set-up, complimentary laundry and dry cleaning, and a variety of other onboard services.
Participants will also receive a certificate of achievement and a pin indicating their level. Agency owners and managers will also earn benefits by having their agents participate in the program, as they will receive the same Captain's Circle benefits as the highest ranked staff member. Princess Academy has been approved by The Travel Institute to provide eight Continuing Education Units (CEUs). For Canadian agents, the program has been approved by the Canadian Institute of Travel Counsellors for 15 credits. For more information, visit www.onesourcecruises.com or www.princess.com.
According to Paul Davis CEO of www.homebasedtravelagents.org "This program will be offered free of charge, Princess Academy enables home based travel agents to increase their Princess expertise. Agents can choose from elective courses to learn about topics most relevant to their business, including categories such as sales opportunities, onboard programs, destinations, customer service and helpful technology. And, agents will move up through four tiers, gaining "stripes" as they successfully complete the course work to earn greater rewards, such as a FREE Cruises".
A similar academy for Cunard Line will debut shortly, featuring courses unique to the line. Princess and Cunard share POLAR Online, a cruise line reservation system. Princess Academy consists of more than 25 classes, representing approximately 15 hours of total course work to reach the highest Commodore level.
Agents access the courses through the new dedicated OneSource Travel Agent Center portal (at www.onesourcecruises.com or through www.princess.com) and can complete their courses at home, at the office, or anywhere they have access to the Internet. Three required classes on destinations, the cruise experience, and customer service start off the program.
To reach the higher program levels, agents must also complete elective courses of their choosing. Electives include destination details, dining options, working with POLAR Online, wedding programs, group sales and other topics. As agents complete the courses, they will earn their stripes as First Officer, Staff Captain, Captain and finally Commodore.
Agents who reach the top rank of Commodore status earn the opportunity to sail on a free Academy graduation cruise. Each year, 1,000 cabins will be set aside for these agents who successfully reach the program's highest level. In addition, as they reach each new rank, agents earn benefits that correspond to those in the Captain's Circle. Upon sailing, agents will be given those same perks, such as free Internet access, upgraded stateroom amenities, free mini-bar set-up, complimentary laundry and dry cleaning, and a variety of other onboard services.
Participants will also receive a certificate of achievement and a pin indicating their level. Agency owners and managers will also earn benefits by having their agents participate in the program, as they will receive the same Captain's Circle benefits as the highest ranked staff member. Princess Academy has been approved by The Travel Institute to provide eight Continuing Education Units (CEUs). For Canadian agents, the program has been approved by the Canadian Institute of Travel Counsellors for 15 credits. For more information, visit www.onesourcecruises.com or www.princess.com.
Las Vegas Certification for Home Based Travel Agents
Program Overview
Earning your Las Vegas Travel Trade Certification is easy, educational, and action-packed. After completing our 10 test modules online, you'll be the go-to authority on Vegas and all it has to offer.
"Las Vegas is one of the top Vacations destinations in the USA". According to Paul Davis CEO of Home Based Travel Agents "It would be wise for any home based travel agent to take advantage of this training and become a certified Las Vagas expert.
Program Benefits
When you've successfully passed the 10 tests and finished the certification process, not only will you be a Las Vegas expert, there are many benefits you will reap when you complete the LVCVA program. Be sure to use all of the following to promote yourself to new and current clients as "Vegas Certified" in booking travel to Las Vegas and to continue the learning process about our dynamic and unique destination.
Diploma!
Upon completion of the Vegas Certified course, we will mail you a certificate. Put it near your desk and post it on your agency's website so browsers will know of your superior knowledge of Las Vegas.
Bragging rights!
A special logo insignia has been created for use on your business cards, stationary and other promotional materials to spread the word that you are a specialist on Las Vegas.
Win $$$$$!
Monthly drawings for $100 certificates redeemable at GiftCertificates.com.Open only to travel agents who are "Vegas Certified". Click here for rules.
Highlighted for Hotels!
Inclusion in a special database available to the Las Vegas hotel community seeking Las Vegas booking agents. The hotels want to know who you are so they can provide information and incentives to productive travel agents. Our lists tells the hotels that you are the ones.
Agency Identification!
We will provide you with one or several identifying stickers for your travel agency's window. Passersby will flock into your agency to book a Las Vegas vacation when they see the "Vegas Certified" designation in the window or on the door.
If we build it, you will come!
Become eligible for familiarization tours to find out what's new, hip and happening in Las Vegas. Expand your contacts. Meet other travel agents who have gone through the program.
We come to see you too!
We will be hosting you and other certified agents at dinners at name restaurants, ball games, theater parties, seminars, and lots of other fun activities in your area. You tell us what's cool in your hometown and we'll be there to party with you.
Book more Vegas!
Automatic registration to receive LVCVA electronic newsletters and other information about Las Vegas and Clark County, Nevada. This material will feature commissionable packages, opportunities and other ways to earn more money booking Las Vegas.
Marketing tools!
You have successfully finished the certification program - now you will want to tell the world about your new favorite destination. We will send you a special CD of approved Las Vegas images to use for your own marketing purposes. These images will work on flyers, posters, e-mail or just about anything else you will be creating to increase your Las Vegas bookings.
Register to start the program, or log in at right if you've been here before. This promotion is available only to legal residents of the United States who are currently licensed travel agents.
Earning your Las Vegas Travel Trade Certification is easy, educational, and action-packed. After completing our 10 test modules online, you'll be the go-to authority on Vegas and all it has to offer.
"Las Vegas is one of the top Vacations destinations in the USA". According to Paul Davis CEO of Home Based Travel Agents "It would be wise for any home based travel agent to take advantage of this training and become a certified Las Vagas expert.
Program Benefits
When you've successfully passed the 10 tests and finished the certification process, not only will you be a Las Vegas expert, there are many benefits you will reap when you complete the LVCVA program. Be sure to use all of the following to promote yourself to new and current clients as "Vegas Certified" in booking travel to Las Vegas and to continue the learning process about our dynamic and unique destination.
Diploma!
Upon completion of the Vegas Certified course, we will mail you a certificate. Put it near your desk and post it on your agency's website so browsers will know of your superior knowledge of Las Vegas.
Bragging rights!
A special logo insignia has been created for use on your business cards, stationary and other promotional materials to spread the word that you are a specialist on Las Vegas.
Win $$$$$!
Monthly drawings for $100 certificates redeemable at GiftCertificates.com.Open only to travel agents who are "Vegas Certified". Click here for rules.
Highlighted for Hotels!
Inclusion in a special database available to the Las Vegas hotel community seeking Las Vegas booking agents. The hotels want to know who you are so they can provide information and incentives to productive travel agents. Our lists tells the hotels that you are the ones.
Agency Identification!
We will provide you with one or several identifying stickers for your travel agency's window. Passersby will flock into your agency to book a Las Vegas vacation when they see the "Vegas Certified" designation in the window or on the door.
If we build it, you will come!
Become eligible for familiarization tours to find out what's new, hip and happening in Las Vegas. Expand your contacts. Meet other travel agents who have gone through the program.
We come to see you too!
We will be hosting you and other certified agents at dinners at name restaurants, ball games, theater parties, seminars, and lots of other fun activities in your area. You tell us what's cool in your hometown and we'll be there to party with you.
Book more Vegas!
Automatic registration to receive LVCVA electronic newsletters and other information about Las Vegas and Clark County, Nevada. This material will feature commissionable packages, opportunities and other ways to earn more money booking Las Vegas.
Marketing tools!
You have successfully finished the certification program - now you will want to tell the world about your new favorite destination. We will send you a special CD of approved Las Vegas images to use for your own marketing purposes. These images will work on flyers, posters, e-mail or just about anything else you will be creating to increase your Las Vegas bookings.
Register to start the program, or log in at right if you've been here before. This promotion is available only to legal residents of the United States who are currently licensed travel agents.
Sunday
FREE Globus Training
June 28 - Virtual Training - What is new for 2007? Sign on to this training from the comfort of your home and learn about the new Winter Programs being offered by the Globus Family of Brands - including the Christmas Markets, River Cruises and more.
This is such a popular subject that it will be offered four times throughout the day: 9 am EST, 11 am EST, 6 pm EST and 8 pm EST. Registration is required. Contact Melinda Romero at mromero@globusandcosmos.com.
This is such a popular subject that it will be offered four times throughout the day: 9 am EST, 11 am EST, 6 pm EST and 8 pm EST. Registration is required. Contact Melinda Romero at mromero@globusandcosmos.com.
Friday
Creating Your Own Travel Club
By Bruce Tepper, CTC, CTIE
Most people are joiners. They join service clubs, trade associations, the PTA -- you name it. We are a nation of members in all kinds of organizations. We join for any number of reasons, ranging from a spirit of volunteerism and community service to doing social and fun activities with people we enjoy.
Travel clubs are no different. The concept certainly is not new in the travel industry, but creating a club for luxury buyers is different and requires a different approach. The traditional agency club is often free or has a nominal annual fee of around $25 or $50.
Club members usually get a newsletter, special pricing, and perhaps some special products and group tours that you market only to your club members. After all, there have to be some perks in membership. Luxury travel is different in many ways.
Let's look at what it takes to create a travel club for luxury-oriented buyers. Successful luxury clubs usually have high fees. The perks that members expect are often expensive to provide, high fees keep out the "riff-raff" giving your club an air of exclusivity, and such fees establish a real value to membership.
Annual fees of $500 or even $5,000 would not be unreasonable. I'm aware of clubs that charge a good deal more than that. As another point of reference, look at what banks are charging for some of their premium credit cards. Consumers don't seem to have any problem paying $250 a year or more the privilege of using a particular credit card, with "prestige" usually being the only benefit included.
Membership benefits must be unique and special. For example, you should offer private receptions at top restaurants and private clubs in your area featuring slide presentations on hot new trendy travel products. The receptions are upscale, complimentary, and by invitation only to members.
Offer special pricing on very unique and exclusive super high-end travel experiences. These could be individual or group activities open only to your members. For example, you could offer a Mediterranean sailing on a private yacht with visits to places cruise lines miss or a chartered private business-class jet for an around-the-world adventure.
Depending on the unique interests of your clientele, you could create any number of special experiences tailored to their interests, ranging from private boxes at La Scala to tickets to the Masters to tours of elegant private homes conducted by a professional designer. You can offer a special discount for your club members or better yet, limit participation to club members only. You can create local and unique activities to bring your club members in contact with you more frequently.
For example, in the small town where I live we have a very active repertory theater company. It's easy to take over the theater for a private performance and host a reception afterwards. You can tie in with a charity and turn it into a black-tie event if you want outside publicity.If you are located in a central business district, create a private club just like the airline clubs for busy executives to escape to from their office. Your private and exclusive oasis could be a most welcome way to build more business.
You also can offer club members a private, dedicated unlisted phone line (so they get through quickly) and staff it with your very best people. This is probably the most important item on this list.A successful club allows high-end travelers to address their crucial needs.
Such a club will allow them to talk with knowledgeable professionals, be treated with extreme courtesy and attention, and be treated to exclusive perks not available to others. At the same time, such a club must offer products and services rarely if ever found in typical travel agencies.
Put another way, you become the super concierge and resource for all that's great about high-end travel.Keep your focus on quality and value together. Even the wealthiest don't want to pay too much. But also make sure you deliver extraordinary service.
There's no reason you can't charge a $5,000 fee, as long you provide at least $5,000 worth of "value" in the eyes of the customer. Imagination is your only limitation. Put some creativity into designing a club that fits your areas of expertise and your unique customer base
Most people are joiners. They join service clubs, trade associations, the PTA -- you name it. We are a nation of members in all kinds of organizations. We join for any number of reasons, ranging from a spirit of volunteerism and community service to doing social and fun activities with people we enjoy.
Travel clubs are no different. The concept certainly is not new in the travel industry, but creating a club for luxury buyers is different and requires a different approach. The traditional agency club is often free or has a nominal annual fee of around $25 or $50.
Club members usually get a newsletter, special pricing, and perhaps some special products and group tours that you market only to your club members. After all, there have to be some perks in membership. Luxury travel is different in many ways.
Let's look at what it takes to create a travel club for luxury-oriented buyers. Successful luxury clubs usually have high fees. The perks that members expect are often expensive to provide, high fees keep out the "riff-raff" giving your club an air of exclusivity, and such fees establish a real value to membership.
Annual fees of $500 or even $5,000 would not be unreasonable. I'm aware of clubs that charge a good deal more than that. As another point of reference, look at what banks are charging for some of their premium credit cards. Consumers don't seem to have any problem paying $250 a year or more the privilege of using a particular credit card, with "prestige" usually being the only benefit included.
Membership benefits must be unique and special. For example, you should offer private receptions at top restaurants and private clubs in your area featuring slide presentations on hot new trendy travel products. The receptions are upscale, complimentary, and by invitation only to members.
Offer special pricing on very unique and exclusive super high-end travel experiences. These could be individual or group activities open only to your members. For example, you could offer a Mediterranean sailing on a private yacht with visits to places cruise lines miss or a chartered private business-class jet for an around-the-world adventure.
Depending on the unique interests of your clientele, you could create any number of special experiences tailored to their interests, ranging from private boxes at La Scala to tickets to the Masters to tours of elegant private homes conducted by a professional designer. You can offer a special discount for your club members or better yet, limit participation to club members only. You can create local and unique activities to bring your club members in contact with you more frequently.
For example, in the small town where I live we have a very active repertory theater company. It's easy to take over the theater for a private performance and host a reception afterwards. You can tie in with a charity and turn it into a black-tie event if you want outside publicity.If you are located in a central business district, create a private club just like the airline clubs for busy executives to escape to from their office. Your private and exclusive oasis could be a most welcome way to build more business.
You also can offer club members a private, dedicated unlisted phone line (so they get through quickly) and staff it with your very best people. This is probably the most important item on this list.A successful club allows high-end travelers to address their crucial needs.
Such a club will allow them to talk with knowledgeable professionals, be treated with extreme courtesy and attention, and be treated to exclusive perks not available to others. At the same time, such a club must offer products and services rarely if ever found in typical travel agencies.
Put another way, you become the super concierge and resource for all that's great about high-end travel.Keep your focus on quality and value together. Even the wealthiest don't want to pay too much. But also make sure you deliver extraordinary service.
There's no reason you can't charge a $5,000 fee, as long you provide at least $5,000 worth of "value" in the eyes of the customer. Imagination is your only limitation. Put some creativity into designing a club that fits your areas of expertise and your unique customer base
Thursday
Sceptre Declares June Agent Appreciation Month
Celebrating its success selling F.I.T. packages to Ireland only through travel retailers, Sceptre Tours-Travel To Ireland has declared the month of June to be "Travel Agent Appreciation Month."
For each booking received by June 30, 2006 (for travel completed by Aug. 31, 2006) the agency will be entered into a drawing in which the grand prize winner will receive an Emerald Castle Vacation for two with airfare courtesy of Aer Lingus. Nine additional winners will be selected (10 winners in total), each receiving a $100 American Express Gift Card.
Each booking counts as one entry. The more vacations sold, the greater the chances for the agency to win. "As our numbers clearly indicate, travel agents appreciate our dedication to the agent community and have come to see the value of booking with us," said Chris Accomando, president of Sceptre Tours. "In return, we are thanking our travel agent friends for making Sceptre Tours the most successful F.I.T. tour operator to the Emerald Isle by giving away 10 prizes including a free trip to Ireland."
The Emerald Castle Vacation includes Irish breakfast daily, a weekly car rental, and six nights' accommodations at various Bed & Breakfast and first-class hotel properties, including one night in the luxurious Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort.
Agents interested in becoming Emerald Partners to earn an automatic 12.5 percent commission on consumer bookings received by the Sceptre Tours call center or website can visit www.sceptreagent.com click the "Become an Ireland Specialist" icon. This will launch a free 10-minute online course providing a wealth of information to help agents sell Ireland vacations and to ensure that all their customers receive satisfying travel experiences.
For more information on enrolling in the Emerald Partner program, call Sceptre Tours directly at 800-221-0924 or visit www.sceptreagent.com.
For each booking received by June 30, 2006 (for travel completed by Aug. 31, 2006) the agency will be entered into a drawing in which the grand prize winner will receive an Emerald Castle Vacation for two with airfare courtesy of Aer Lingus. Nine additional winners will be selected (10 winners in total), each receiving a $100 American Express Gift Card.
Each booking counts as one entry. The more vacations sold, the greater the chances for the agency to win. "As our numbers clearly indicate, travel agents appreciate our dedication to the agent community and have come to see the value of booking with us," said Chris Accomando, president of Sceptre Tours. "In return, we are thanking our travel agent friends for making Sceptre Tours the most successful F.I.T. tour operator to the Emerald Isle by giving away 10 prizes including a free trip to Ireland."
The Emerald Castle Vacation includes Irish breakfast daily, a weekly car rental, and six nights' accommodations at various Bed & Breakfast and first-class hotel properties, including one night in the luxurious Adare Manor Hotel & Golf Resort.
Agents interested in becoming Emerald Partners to earn an automatic 12.5 percent commission on consumer bookings received by the Sceptre Tours call center or website can visit www.sceptreagent.com click the "Become an Ireland Specialist" icon. This will launch a free 10-minute online course providing a wealth of information to help agents sell Ireland vacations and to ensure that all their customers receive satisfying travel experiences.
For more information on enrolling in the Emerald Partner program, call Sceptre Tours directly at 800-221-0924 or visit www.sceptreagent.com.
About Contiki Holidays
Contiki Holidays is a worldwide leader in vacations for 18 to 35 year-olds. For over 40 years, Contiki Holidays has been taking travelers around the world and offering them an unforgettable travel experience. Their tours have been individually created to include a mix of sightseeing, free time, culture, socializing and adventure. Regardless of your client's destination or traveling style, Contiki is committed to providing them with an amazing trip at an affordable price.
Contiki is not the tour company of yesterday! Say goodbye to tents and hello to hotels! Their Superior Contikis stay in tourist class, 3-Star hotels and higher. They now offer Contikis to Turkey, Israel and Jordan. In addition, your client can opt to go relax in one of our category A resorts in either picturesque Mykonos, Greece or gorgeous Bali, Indonesia. Regardless of your client's destination or traveling style, Contiki is committed to providing them with an amazing trip at an affordable price.
http://www.contikiholidays.com/
How It All Began
In 1961, a young New Zealander named John Anderson arrived in London to embark on a journey to Europe. He didn't want to travel alone and he didn't have a lot of money, so he came up with a plan. He put a deposit on a minibus and gathered a group of people to travel with. They spent twelve weeks exploring Europe together and had a wonderful time. At the end of the trip, John tried to sell the minibus but no one wanted to buy it. So in the Spring of 1962 he decided to advertise his Europe trip again. This time, he was able to fit two trips into the summer season, therefore doubling his business, and Contiki Holidays was "born". The first tours were all booked by 19-29 year olds so right from the start Contiki was all about youth travel.
Contiki is not the tour company of yesterday! Say goodbye to tents and hello to hotels! Their Superior Contikis stay in tourist class, 3-Star hotels and higher. They now offer Contikis to Turkey, Israel and Jordan. In addition, your client can opt to go relax in one of our category A resorts in either picturesque Mykonos, Greece or gorgeous Bali, Indonesia. Regardless of your client's destination or traveling style, Contiki is committed to providing them with an amazing trip at an affordable price.
http://www.contikiholidays.com/
How It All Began
In 1961, a young New Zealander named John Anderson arrived in London to embark on a journey to Europe. He didn't want to travel alone and he didn't have a lot of money, so he came up with a plan. He put a deposit on a minibus and gathered a group of people to travel with. They spent twelve weeks exploring Europe together and had a wonderful time. At the end of the trip, John tried to sell the minibus but no one wanted to buy it. So in the Spring of 1962 he decided to advertise his Europe trip again. This time, he was able to fit two trips into the summer season, therefore doubling his business, and Contiki Holidays was "born". The first tours were all booked by 19-29 year olds so right from the start Contiki was all about youth travel.
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