Bonaire was voted the top dive destination (Caribbean/Atlantic) for the fifth year in a row by Scuba Diving Magazine. Bonaire also received the number one rating in four other Caribbean/Atlantic categories: Healthiest Marine Environment, Top Shore Diving Destination, Top Destination for Underwater Photography and Top Destination for Beginners, and took second place in the categories of Top Marine Life and Top Small Animal Encounters.
Additionally, Bonaire placed in the top three in the Top Value and Top Snorkeling categories, and in the top five in the categories of Top Visibility and Top Destinations for Advanced Divers. Results of the 2007 Awards will be featured in the January/February 2007 issue of Scuba Diving magazine.
Located 86 miles east of Aruba, the Dutch Caribbean island of Bonaire offers year-round sunshine, low annual rainfall, pristine coral formations and the most thriving fish population in the Caribbean. For more information on Bonaire, contact the Tourism Corporation Bonaire in the U.S. at 800-BONAIRE or visit www.infobonaire.com.
Learn How to Become A Travel Agent... Open your own Home Based Travel Agency
Thursday
Wednesday
Mickey Mouse to Call Travel Agents' Clients
Home based travel agents who book a Walt Disney World vacation package for their clients by Dec. 23 can have Mickey Mouse call the family on Christmas day to deliver the big news.
For the first-time ever, home based travel agents will be able to share the news with their clients that on Christmas Day they can witness the excitement on everyone's faces when they hear they're going to the Walt Disney World Resort directly from Mickey himself.
Home based travel agents who book their clients on a Walt Disney World vacation should make note of their reservation number (it is needed to schedule the call).
Visit www.mickeyholidaycall.com by 9 p.m. (EST) on Saturday, Dec. 23, 2006. Complete the four easy steps, remembering to include the reservation number from the booking. Clients will hear the big news with a special greeting from Mickey Mouse on Christmas Day (Dec. 25). For additional information, visit www.disneytravelagents.com
For the first-time ever, home based travel agents will be able to share the news with their clients that on Christmas Day they can witness the excitement on everyone's faces when they hear they're going to the Walt Disney World Resort directly from Mickey himself.
Home based travel agents who book their clients on a Walt Disney World vacation should make note of their reservation number (it is needed to schedule the call).
Visit www.mickeyholidaycall.com by 9 p.m. (EST) on Saturday, Dec. 23, 2006. Complete the four easy steps, remembering to include the reservation number from the booking. Clients will hear the big news with a special greeting from Mickey Mouse on Christmas Day (Dec. 25). For additional information, visit www.disneytravelagents.com
Tuesday
Puerto Rico Launches Online Agent Expert Program
The Puerto Rico Tourism Company has launched a specialist program to help home based travel agents learn all about the island, from its golf and scuba diving to its history and culture.
Located at www.GoToPuertoRico.com, the program is specifically designed for home based travel agents who are interested in becoming certified experts on the destination. The certification program is open to all bona fide agents employed by an ARC/IATA/ IATAN approved company, ASTA members and/or holding a current ACE, CTA, and CTC, DS or TCI certification. CLIA, NACTA and OSSN members are also welcome.
To register, travel agents can either take an introductory e-test by visiting the website, calling the assigned PRTC Business Development Manager in their region to request a presentation for their staff or looking online for scheduled Go to Puerto Rico presentations in their area.
After passing the test, to become a certified PRTE, travel agents can sign up online for the six nights/seven day core program. During this on-island program, travel agents will experience first hand the varied facilities and activities Puerto Rico has to offer their clientele; be it singles, couples, honeymooners, families, food and history lovers or sports and nature enthusiasts.
Once the program is completed, home based travel agents will be fully certified and can enjoy from the following numerous benefits: PRTE ID Card, framed PRTE certificate, Dream Points Reward Program, online "Locate a PRTE" section for consumers, 12 CEUs from The Travel Institute (formerly ICTA), exclusive access to the Leads Online consumer and agent's lead referrals and special offers.
Online access to Go To Puerto Rico Seminars and special events, invitations and online registration to seminars offered by the Puerto Rico Tourism Company globally, online registration to Familiarization Trips, support from PRTC Business Development Managers in the field, automatic subscription to Que Pasa! -- Puerto Rico's signature magazine, E-Newsletter with up to the minute information and special offers, and Le-Lo-Lai value calling card for clients.
In addition, agents can specialize in a variety of niche markets, including Paradores, Vieques & Culebra, Scuba, Nature & Adventure and Golf/Spa & Luxury. For more information, visit www.GoToPuertoRico.com
Sunday
Princess Cruises Starts Scrapbooking Program
Princess Cruises has launched new scrapbooking classes aboard its fleet. The new Princess Scrapbooking@Sea program is designed to encourage passengers to preserve their cruise memories in a fun and creative way.
Presented as part of Princess' ScholarShip@Sea educational program, Scrapbooking@Sea incorporates a series of onboard classes and a scrapbooking kit with unique themed pages designed exclusively for Princess. The program begins rolling out to select ships this month, and is expected to be available across the Princess fleet by early 2007.
"Scrapbooking has become one of America's favorite hobbies," said Jan Swartz, Princess' senior vice president of customer service and sales. "This program was tested aboard several of our vessels with great success, so we're pleased to now offer this popular activity fleetwide." The program includes a series of classes, starting with a complimentary basics class.
Subsequent courses are available to passengers who purchase Princess' special scrapbooking kit. Classes offer tips and creative ideas, plus free time to work on pages with a full range of supplies available for use, including scissors, adhesive, deluxe paper, die-cut machines with assorted die-cuts, pens and other items that can be used during the class sessions. All materials are acid-free and archival safe. Princess' special scrapbooking kit features decorative papers, stickers and rub-on emblems along with instructions on how to build five unique vacation-themed pages.
Kits cost $24.95 at any Scrapbooking@Sea class or at the ship's onboard photo gallery. Additional themed kits are being developed for future sailings. In addition, a specially designed Princess scrapbook is available for purchase at the ship's photo gallery. For more information, call 800-PRINCESS or visit www.princess.com.
Presented as part of Princess' ScholarShip@Sea educational program, Scrapbooking@Sea incorporates a series of onboard classes and a scrapbooking kit with unique themed pages designed exclusively for Princess. The program begins rolling out to select ships this month, and is expected to be available across the Princess fleet by early 2007.
"Scrapbooking has become one of America's favorite hobbies," said Jan Swartz, Princess' senior vice president of customer service and sales. "This program was tested aboard several of our vessels with great success, so we're pleased to now offer this popular activity fleetwide." The program includes a series of classes, starting with a complimentary basics class.
Subsequent courses are available to passengers who purchase Princess' special scrapbooking kit. Classes offer tips and creative ideas, plus free time to work on pages with a full range of supplies available for use, including scissors, adhesive, deluxe paper, die-cut machines with assorted die-cuts, pens and other items that can be used during the class sessions. All materials are acid-free and archival safe. Princess' special scrapbooking kit features decorative papers, stickers and rub-on emblems along with instructions on how to build five unique vacation-themed pages.
Kits cost $24.95 at any Scrapbooking@Sea class or at the ship's onboard photo gallery. Additional themed kits are being developed for future sailings. In addition, a specially designed Princess scrapbook is available for purchase at the ship's photo gallery. For more information, call 800-PRINCESS or visit www.princess.com.
RCI and Celebrity Introduce New eDoc Enhancements
Royal Caribbean International and Celebrity Cruises recently introduced a new enhancement to their eDocs program. As a continuation of their Easy To Do Business With efforts, eDocs now has a new look and feel. The format has switched from a three-column landscape format to a user-friendly two-column portrait format.
A Table of Contents has also now been incorporated. Through the use of Acrobat Reader bookmarks, you will be able to access the correct page by simply clicking on the item of interest while viewing the document through your computer.
While online, you can click on the newly added hyperlinks, in order to be directed to additional information on a given subject. In most cases an appropriate map image of the itinerary will populate in the Cruise Summary page, to better visualize the booked cruise.
For your convenience, eDoc bag tags and eDoc jackets are packaged together and can be ordered through BrochurePower, accessed though www.cruisingpower.com or by calling 1.800.255.4373 for Royal Caribbean or 1.800.211.4789 for Celebrity Cruises. Ask for item number: AS0001304I.
Please remember to ask for eDocs when making your bookings.
Future Enhancements
To support this new format, a newly designed eDocs jacket is currently being developed.
Some highlights of the new design will include:
Easy way to secure the eDocs within the jacket
Handy slot for business cards
Convenient pocket for the eDocs baggage tags
Revised two-sided instruction sheet on the use of eDocs baggage tag and jacket
Other future eDocs developments include:
Greater flexibility in the management of eDocs - especially for large groups.
Samples of the new documents can be seen on www.cruisingpower.com by selecting Booking Tools/Documentation.
A Table of Contents has also now been incorporated. Through the use of Acrobat Reader bookmarks, you will be able to access the correct page by simply clicking on the item of interest while viewing the document through your computer.
While online, you can click on the newly added hyperlinks, in order to be directed to additional information on a given subject. In most cases an appropriate map image of the itinerary will populate in the Cruise Summary page, to better visualize the booked cruise.
For your convenience, eDoc bag tags and eDoc jackets are packaged together and can be ordered through BrochurePower, accessed though www.cruisingpower.com or by calling 1.800.255.4373 for Royal Caribbean or 1.800.211.4789 for Celebrity Cruises. Ask for item number: AS0001304I.
Please remember to ask for eDocs when making your bookings.
Future Enhancements
To support this new format, a newly designed eDocs jacket is currently being developed.
Some highlights of the new design will include:
Easy way to secure the eDocs within the jacket
Handy slot for business cards
Convenient pocket for the eDocs baggage tags
Revised two-sided instruction sheet on the use of eDocs baggage tag and jacket
Other future eDocs developments include:
Greater flexibility in the management of eDocs - especially for large groups.
Samples of the new documents can be seen on www.cruisingpower.com by selecting Booking Tools/Documentation.
Monday
New Holiday Travel Trends
Not only are travelers looking to indulge in new travel experiences, they are also treating themselves to an extra special holiday season this year with 76 percent of travel agents reporting that travelers are booking more luxury vacations this season than ever before. Sixty-eight percent of Travel agents are seeing an increase in five-star hotel bookings and 54 percent are seeing an increase in first-class and business-class travel bookings.
Agents revealed that luxury travel this holiday season has increased the most among couples (48 percent) and families (48 percent); followed by mature travelers (31 percent), and singles (10 percent). The poll also revealed that 24 percent of agents are booking more holiday travel overall this year than last, with the majority (43 percent) saying that holiday vacation budgets are exceeding $2,000 per person.
Home based travel agents say that beach/resort, cruise, and ski/mountain vacations top the list as favorite getaways. Fifty-eight percent say that families with children are booking the most holiday travel this year, followed by couples (18 percent), and relatives traveling together (14 percent). The top reasons for taking a holiday vacation instead of staying home are that kids are off from school (48 percent), people are able to take time off (43 percent), a desire to relax and get away from it all (35 percent), an interest in experiencing a new culture or country (27 percent), and the desire to celebrate the season in a new way (26 percent).
Agents revealed that luxury travel this holiday season has increased the most among couples (48 percent) and families (48 percent); followed by mature travelers (31 percent), and singles (10 percent). The poll also revealed that 24 percent of agents are booking more holiday travel overall this year than last, with the majority (43 percent) saying that holiday vacation budgets are exceeding $2,000 per person.
Home based travel agents say that beach/resort, cruise, and ski/mountain vacations top the list as favorite getaways. Fifty-eight percent say that families with children are booking the most holiday travel this year, followed by couples (18 percent), and relatives traveling together (14 percent). The top reasons for taking a holiday vacation instead of staying home are that kids are off from school (48 percent), people are able to take time off (43 percent), a desire to relax and get away from it all (35 percent), an interest in experiencing a new culture or country (27 percent), and the desire to celebrate the season in a new way (26 percent).
Thursday
20% Commission Offer* EXTENDED!!!
Based on the immense response from the Home Based Travel Agent community, Vacation Rentals 4 Agents is extending its bonus commission promotion.
As a special incentive, travel agents and group planners registered at www.VacationRentals4Agents.com can now earn commissions of up to 20 percent* on new bookings made by November 30, 2006 for travel through April 30, 2007 – which reflects an additional eight percent booking bonus.
As a special incentive, travel agents and group planners registered at www.VacationRentals4Agents.com can now earn commissions of up to 20 percent* on new bookings made by November 30, 2006 for travel through April 30, 2007 – which reflects an additional eight percent booking bonus.
RCCL Onboard Credit Offer
Take your client's vacation to the next level with a Royal Caribbean cruisetour. In Europe, they will not only explore the quaint and cultural coastal towns, they'll journey farther inland for adventures in places like Madrid, Paris and London. Plus we've added three new Europe cruisetours to give your clients even more trail-blazing possibilities.
A cruise to Alaska wouldn't be complete without a journey deep into its heart. Visit the historic gold rush town of Fairbanks, the coastal towns of Seward and Alyeska, and the not-to-be-missed journey into Denali National Park, home of Mt. McKinley, North America's largest mountain.
Reserve your client's cruisetour before December 31, 2006, and boost their onboard experience with a $150, $200 or $300 onboard credit. They can use it for the Casino Royale, the day spa, shore excursions and any other onboard spending.To learn more, log in with your username and password using the fields above.
If you're not already registered with CruisingPower.com, what are you waiting for? It's free, with tools to help you increase sales and make your job easier.
A cruise to Alaska wouldn't be complete without a journey deep into its heart. Visit the historic gold rush town of Fairbanks, the coastal towns of Seward and Alyeska, and the not-to-be-missed journey into Denali National Park, home of Mt. McKinley, North America's largest mountain.
Reserve your client's cruisetour before December 31, 2006, and boost their onboard experience with a $150, $200 or $300 onboard credit. They can use it for the Casino Royale, the day spa, shore excursions and any other onboard spending.To learn more, log in with your username and password using the fields above.
If you're not already registered with CruisingPower.com, what are you waiting for? It's free, with tools to help you increase sales and make your job easier.
FREE Cruies-Tour Sale Kit from RCCL and 20 fam trip Give Away
Special incentives and sales tools to send your clients on an unforgettable cruisetour, when we say that we're "easy to do business with," it's not just a claim, it's a commitment. We're dedicated to making your job easier and more productive by providing you with the best tools in the business.Our Cruisetour Sales Kit is available now.
Kit includes:
CD-ROM featuring our 2007 Cruisetour Product Presentations
Cruisetour Quick Reference Guide Wheel
Alaska Cruisetour Map
2007 Cruisetour Calendar
Cruisetour 2007 Land Excursion Guide
2007 Cruisetour Mini-Brochures
Cruisetour Puzzle Game To order our Cruisetour Sales Kit, log in with your username and password using the fields above.
Get your now befor there gone Cruisetour Sales Kit
20 FAM Trips Given Away
This Year!Enter to win a FAM trip by taking a short quiz. Answer correctly and you could win one of 20 incredible FAM trips to Alaska.
Unlike other cruise llines, Royal Caribbean covers the entire cost of the FAM, including airfare, meals, transfers and accommodations.*log in with your username and password using the fields above and fill out the contest form.I
f you're not already registered with CruisingPower.com, Register now. Once logged in, fill out the contest form and fax to the contact listed.*$2,500 value per person
Kit includes:
CD-ROM featuring our 2007 Cruisetour Product Presentations
Cruisetour Quick Reference Guide Wheel
Alaska Cruisetour Map
2007 Cruisetour Calendar
Cruisetour 2007 Land Excursion Guide
2007 Cruisetour Mini-Brochures
Cruisetour Puzzle Game To order our Cruisetour Sales Kit, log in with your username and password using the fields above.
Get your now befor there gone Cruisetour Sales Kit
20 FAM Trips Given Away
This Year!Enter to win a FAM trip by taking a short quiz. Answer correctly and you could win one of 20 incredible FAM trips to Alaska.
Unlike other cruise llines, Royal Caribbean covers the entire cost of the FAM, including airfare, meals, transfers and accommodations.*log in with your username and password using the fields above and fill out the contest form.I
f you're not already registered with CruisingPower.com, Register now. Once logged in, fill out the contest form and fax to the contact listed.*$2,500 value per person
Club Med Reopens Cancun Yucatan Resort
After $24 million in renovations, a new Club Med Cancun Yucatan opened Nov. 11. While the resort was closed, Club Med revitalized not only the facilities, but the philosophy behind the resort.
Changes include a strong emphasis on the discovery of the Yucatan region, new programs for families, upscale amenities and the Jade Villa, a concierge building for luxury travelers. "Cancun Yucatan, with new children's programs and the exclusive Jade concept, is the next step in the evolution of Club Med's upscale and family-oriented vacations," said Cedric Gobilliard, president and CEO, North America, for Club Med.
As a "Discovery Resort," Club Med Cancun Yucatan encourages guests to experience the archaeology, gastronomy and culture of Mexico. Guests who book a seven-night vacation will receive a complimentary excursion to El Meco, where they can climb the main temple. The resort's new Discovery Center, which emphasizes respect and understanding for local cultures and environments, provides 17 options for all ages, many of which promote ecotourism.
No longer an adults-only resort, Club Med Cancun Yucatan invites families to discover the Yucatan Peninsula, through a variety of excursions, daily activities and group lessons, including water-skiing, wakeboarding, windsurfing, flying trapeze and tennis. A Mini Club Med, catering to children ages four to 10, will launch the last week of December. A Club Med concept exclusively for teens and ‘tweens will launch Nov. 18. There's also a Baby Welcome program with amenities such as bottle warmers, high chairs and babysitting in the room.
In addition to a new design and décor, the village features larger rooms and upgraded services. More than half of the 384 rooms and balconies have been expanded, giving guests 416-square-foot rooms and views of the Yucatan Peninsula from 75-square-foot balconies. The resort's 18 suites also have been enlarged, to 691 square feet. The Jade Villa, a specialized luxury concierge building, offers room service, ocean view suites and upgraded amenities packages, including private car from the airport, free Internet access, fresh flower arrangements, bathrobes, slippers, welcome gifts, laundry service, morning newspapers, a and a stocked mini-fridge.
The new gourmet restaurant offers day-long service, "hacienda-style" dining rooms, and several menu options. Seven-night inclusive rates start at $1,190 (low season) and $1,350 (high season). Rates at the Jade Villa start at $1,428 for a standard and $1,785 for a suite. For more information or reservations, call 800-CLUB-MED or visit www.clubmed.com.
Changes include a strong emphasis on the discovery of the Yucatan region, new programs for families, upscale amenities and the Jade Villa, a concierge building for luxury travelers. "Cancun Yucatan, with new children's programs and the exclusive Jade concept, is the next step in the evolution of Club Med's upscale and family-oriented vacations," said Cedric Gobilliard, president and CEO, North America, for Club Med.
As a "Discovery Resort," Club Med Cancun Yucatan encourages guests to experience the archaeology, gastronomy and culture of Mexico. Guests who book a seven-night vacation will receive a complimentary excursion to El Meco, where they can climb the main temple. The resort's new Discovery Center, which emphasizes respect and understanding for local cultures and environments, provides 17 options for all ages, many of which promote ecotourism.
No longer an adults-only resort, Club Med Cancun Yucatan invites families to discover the Yucatan Peninsula, through a variety of excursions, daily activities and group lessons, including water-skiing, wakeboarding, windsurfing, flying trapeze and tennis. A Mini Club Med, catering to children ages four to 10, will launch the last week of December. A Club Med concept exclusively for teens and ‘tweens will launch Nov. 18. There's also a Baby Welcome program with amenities such as bottle warmers, high chairs and babysitting in the room.
In addition to a new design and décor, the village features larger rooms and upgraded services. More than half of the 384 rooms and balconies have been expanded, giving guests 416-square-foot rooms and views of the Yucatan Peninsula from 75-square-foot balconies. The resort's 18 suites also have been enlarged, to 691 square feet. The Jade Villa, a specialized luxury concierge building, offers room service, ocean view suites and upgraded amenities packages, including private car from the airport, free Internet access, fresh flower arrangements, bathrobes, slippers, welcome gifts, laundry service, morning newspapers, a and a stocked mini-fridge.
The new gourmet restaurant offers day-long service, "hacienda-style" dining rooms, and several menu options. Seven-night inclusive rates start at $1,190 (low season) and $1,350 (high season). Rates at the Jade Villa start at $1,428 for a standard and $1,785 for a suite. For more information or reservations, call 800-CLUB-MED or visit www.clubmed.com.
MSC "Kids Sail Free" to Europe
MSC Cruises adds "Kids Sail Free" offer to its 2007 European sailings. Youngsters age 17 and under sail free (except for government fees and taxes) on all of the line's Mediterranean and Northern Europe itineraries when sharing a stateroom with two paying guests.
Cruise-only rates, which are dependent on stateroom category and sailing, begin at $795 per person, double occupancy. MSC ships feature children's menus with favorites such as hamburgers, hot dogs and pizza; Kids' Club activities; and European-style entertainment suitable for the entire family. For more information, visit www.msccruises.com
Cruise-only rates, which are dependent on stateroom category and sailing, begin at $795 per person, double occupancy. MSC ships feature children's menus with favorites such as hamburgers, hot dogs and pizza; Kids' Club activities; and European-style entertainment suitable for the entire family. For more information, visit www.msccruises.com
Free 2007 Gutsy Woman Brochures Available!
Choose from more than 80 departures
Receive high commissions plus an additional 2% for booking online
Tours designed specifically for women with incredible value in each program
Centrally located boutique accommodations
Unique personal interactions in each destination
Free time to shop and explore built into every itinerary
Order Online at www.gutsywomentravel.comor Call (866)-IM-GUTSY
Receive high commissions plus an additional 2% for booking online
Tours designed specifically for women with incredible value in each program
Centrally located boutique accommodations
Unique personal interactions in each destination
Free time to shop and explore built into every itinerary
Order Online at www.gutsywomentravel.comor Call (866)-IM-GUTSY
Wednesday
Make More Today
As the Holiday Season approaches us quickly, you should start increasing your Holiday cash flow today. Sign up to sell AIG Travel Guard plans through our innovative technology - ezTIPS software. ezTIPS can help increase your AIG Travel Guard sales, resulting in more money for the Holidays! Help your clients get coverage during this hectic Holiday travel season with America's leading travel insurance and assistance plan provider -- AIG Travel Guard. Interested in earning cash for the Holidays? Call 1.866.729.5215 or email ezTIPS@travelguard.com to find out more.
Celebrity Set to Offer LeapFrog Kids Programs
Celebrity Cruises is working with LeapFrog SchoolHouse to provide engaging, multisensory learning tools and instruction that align with Celebrity's travel itineraries around the world.
LeapFrog is recognized for its interactive, electronic education programs and products for the pre-kindergarten through grade 8 education market. The company's writers and editors have worked with Celebrity to make available onboard a variety of their most popular products, and created six exclusive educational modules for children ages 3 through 9.
The new onboard programming focuses on topics including dinosaurs, science and space, sports, the world, art and music, and wildlife. Additional activities tailored to specific Celebrity itineraries also have been developed to educate children on the heritage, customs, crafts, art, and music of Alaska, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Mexico, and the Mediterranean -- all regions where Celebrity generally attracts a higher percentage of families traveling with children.
LeapFrog SchoolHouse products now available across the Celebrity fleet include the personal learning tools (PLTs) such as LeapPad PLT, Quantum LeapPad PLT, the Leapster handheld, the new L-Max Leapster handheld and the Odyssey Globe. Celebrity also provides a full line of LeapFrog toddler products within its X-Club youth facility.
For more information, call 800-437-3111 or visit http://www.celebritycruises.com/ or http://www.leapfrogschoolhouse.com/
LeapFrog is recognized for its interactive, electronic education programs and products for the pre-kindergarten through grade 8 education market. The company's writers and editors have worked with Celebrity to make available onboard a variety of their most popular products, and created six exclusive educational modules for children ages 3 through 9.
The new onboard programming focuses on topics including dinosaurs, science and space, sports, the world, art and music, and wildlife. Additional activities tailored to specific Celebrity itineraries also have been developed to educate children on the heritage, customs, crafts, art, and music of Alaska, Bermuda, the Caribbean, Mexico, and the Mediterranean -- all regions where Celebrity generally attracts a higher percentage of families traveling with children.
LeapFrog SchoolHouse products now available across the Celebrity fleet include the personal learning tools (PLTs) such as LeapPad PLT, Quantum LeapPad PLT, the Leapster handheld, the new L-Max Leapster handheld and the Odyssey Globe. Celebrity also provides a full line of LeapFrog toddler products within its X-Club youth facility.
For more information, call 800-437-3111 or visit http://www.celebritycruises.com/ or http://www.leapfrogschoolhouse.com/
Affluent Travelers Use Travel Agents
Affluent travelers (those who enjoy an annual household income in excess of $150,000, or the top 7 percent of all U.S. households) still use travel agents.
Affluent leisure travelers report using a travel agent to book a leisure trip on which they stayed in "luxury accommodations" during the past year. Among affluent leisure travelers who have used a travel agent to make reservations, the majority report using an agent to book a hotel or resort and/or an airline reservation.
More than one-half report having used the services of a travel agent to select a vacation destination, up significantly from the level recorded in 2004. One-third used the services of an agent to book a cruise, and a slightly lower percentage used an agent to book a vacation package or tour. More than two in 10 affluent leisure travelers used a travel agent to book a rental car, and one in twenty used a travel agent to book accommodations at a destination spa. About half (48 percent) of all affluent leisure travelers who use the services of travel agents consider the recommendations made by their agents to be "very/extremely" influential. It is important to note this proportion has not changed from that recorded in 2004
Affluent leisure travelers report using a travel agent to book a leisure trip on which they stayed in "luxury accommodations" during the past year. Among affluent leisure travelers who have used a travel agent to make reservations, the majority report using an agent to book a hotel or resort and/or an airline reservation.
More than one-half report having used the services of a travel agent to select a vacation destination, up significantly from the level recorded in 2004. One-third used the services of an agent to book a cruise, and a slightly lower percentage used an agent to book a vacation package or tour. More than two in 10 affluent leisure travelers used a travel agent to book a rental car, and one in twenty used a travel agent to book accommodations at a destination spa. About half (48 percent) of all affluent leisure travelers who use the services of travel agents consider the recommendations made by their agents to be "very/extremely" influential. It is important to note this proportion has not changed from that recorded in 2004
Tuesday
Princess New Overland Excursions in Asia/Australia
Princess Cruises is offering two new overland shore excursions in Asia and Australia this fall. The new multi-day tour options are available to passengers aboard Sapphire Princess' Asia and Australia/Asia cruises. Packages include hotel stays, meals and transportation.
The new "Cambodia's Angkor Wat & Vietnam's Ho Chi Minh City" is a three-day journey between Singapore and Ho Chi Minh City (alternate itinerary patterns are also available from Bangkok) featuring a flight to Cambodia to visit Angkor Wat. Other tour highlights include a stay in Singapore and a day in Ho Chi Minh City.
A four-day excursion to the National Parks of Northern Australia operates from Darwin to Cairns. The excursion focuses on Kakadu National Park, which has extensive wetlands, diverse wildlife and the largest number of accessible Aboriginal sites in Australia. Also featured are the Katherine River Gorge carved through ancient sandstone in Nitmuluk National Park, as well as Darwin and Cairns. Overland shore excursions include flights, accommodations, transfers, admission to attractions and meals as stated. Costs begin at $569 per person. For more information, call 800-PRINCESS or visit www.princess.com/shorex/index.jsp.
The new "Cambodia's Angkor Wat & Vietnam's Ho Chi Minh City" is a three-day journey between Singapore and Ho Chi Minh City (alternate itinerary patterns are also available from Bangkok) featuring a flight to Cambodia to visit Angkor Wat. Other tour highlights include a stay in Singapore and a day in Ho Chi Minh City.
A four-day excursion to the National Parks of Northern Australia operates from Darwin to Cairns. The excursion focuses on Kakadu National Park, which has extensive wetlands, diverse wildlife and the largest number of accessible Aboriginal sites in Australia. Also featured are the Katherine River Gorge carved through ancient sandstone in Nitmuluk National Park, as well as Darwin and Cairns. Overland shore excursions include flights, accommodations, transfers, admission to attractions and meals as stated. Costs begin at $569 per person. For more information, call 800-PRINCESS or visit www.princess.com/shorex/index.jsp.
The New 50-plus Travel Dreams
Travel dreams of 50 plus Americans include traveling to Hawaii, Europe, Australia and Italy. The days of settling for a quick trip to Florida are over or so it seems for the 50 plus crowd.
What has always been an important part of Americans leisure activity is now becoming a full blown passion for baby boomers. In fact, 75 percent of boomers today consider themselves travelers and 30 percent of mature travelers travel for adventure.
Recently, people 50 and over were asked to submit there goals and dreams they would like to accomplish on their way to living to age 100.
This growing collection of more than 70,000 LifeDreams personalized collections of top things to do before you turn 100 reveals that nearly half of the top 100 goals adults 50 plus want to accomplish center around travel. What may come as even more of a surprise is the type of travel people are planning: they are not naming passive vacations; rather they seek to experience and learn about the world and themselves through meaningful journeys and adventures.
If you are over 50 today, you will, on average, live 20 years longer than your grandparents did. This provides more opportunities than ever before to get the most out of life.
They are planning to use this time to travel to new places, to continue to learn, to deepen their relationships and to just have fun. Travel is never more important than when you are over 50 now is the time to live out your dreams.
The top five travel dreams include traveling to Hawaii, Europe, Australia and Italy, as well as taking a cruise.
Up until now, the typical first step in planning a trip was to choose a destination Italy or Hawaii for example. "However, we are finding that many boomers are now starting their planning based on their interests and goals," like going to China and waking on the Great Wall of China, explains Paul Davis, CEO of Home Based Travel Agents. From there, the research, planning and fun begin.
For active vacations, boomers are more likely than a younger audience to train with friends or with a personal trainer prior to the trip. Diving into the cultural nuances of a region, taking a conversational language course or inviting friends over to test regional recipes are other ways to make the most of preparing for trips. This new generation is embracing the Internet as a resource and is likely to have a community of past travelers and friends to share and suggest hidden treasures to enrich their travels, adds Davis.
The travel industry is turning its attention to the financial prowess of this new 50 plus generation. Approximately 8,000 Americans turn 50 every day, and boomers control $2 trillion in disposable income annually. New offerings are being created to meet the unique needs of this age group, from plan it yourself travel to extensive package vacations that can be tailored for couples, adventurous individuals or families seeking intergenerational vacations that bring children, parents and grandparents together.
Unique travel companies like Geographic Expeditions, elders and Earthwatch, along with others, are offering experiential trips that enable people 50 and over to participate in environmental, cultural, volunteer and other interest driven activities as part of their trips. Industry leaders such as Home Based Travel Agents are creating PT positions as travel agents that are particularly appealing to this age group.
For people 50 and who want to retiree and still travel all over the world, many are becoming PT travel agents. This allows them to earn extra income and travel for pennies on the dollar. It is very interesting that travel is among the most aspirational concepts for this group. As such, incredible opportunities are being opened up for the Home Based Travel Agents, serving these peoples dreams of traveling around the world.
What has always been an important part of Americans leisure activity is now becoming a full blown passion for baby boomers. In fact, 75 percent of boomers today consider themselves travelers and 30 percent of mature travelers travel for adventure.
Recently, people 50 and over were asked to submit there goals and dreams they would like to accomplish on their way to living to age 100.
This growing collection of more than 70,000 LifeDreams personalized collections of top things to do before you turn 100 reveals that nearly half of the top 100 goals adults 50 plus want to accomplish center around travel. What may come as even more of a surprise is the type of travel people are planning: they are not naming passive vacations; rather they seek to experience and learn about the world and themselves through meaningful journeys and adventures.
If you are over 50 today, you will, on average, live 20 years longer than your grandparents did. This provides more opportunities than ever before to get the most out of life.
They are planning to use this time to travel to new places, to continue to learn, to deepen their relationships and to just have fun. Travel is never more important than when you are over 50 now is the time to live out your dreams.
The top five travel dreams include traveling to Hawaii, Europe, Australia and Italy, as well as taking a cruise.
Up until now, the typical first step in planning a trip was to choose a destination Italy or Hawaii for example. "However, we are finding that many boomers are now starting their planning based on their interests and goals," like going to China and waking on the Great Wall of China, explains Paul Davis, CEO of Home Based Travel Agents. From there, the research, planning and fun begin.
For active vacations, boomers are more likely than a younger audience to train with friends or with a personal trainer prior to the trip. Diving into the cultural nuances of a region, taking a conversational language course or inviting friends over to test regional recipes are other ways to make the most of preparing for trips. This new generation is embracing the Internet as a resource and is likely to have a community of past travelers and friends to share and suggest hidden treasures to enrich their travels, adds Davis.
The travel industry is turning its attention to the financial prowess of this new 50 plus generation. Approximately 8,000 Americans turn 50 every day, and boomers control $2 trillion in disposable income annually. New offerings are being created to meet the unique needs of this age group, from plan it yourself travel to extensive package vacations that can be tailored for couples, adventurous individuals or families seeking intergenerational vacations that bring children, parents and grandparents together.
Unique travel companies like Geographic Expeditions, elders and Earthwatch, along with others, are offering experiential trips that enable people 50 and over to participate in environmental, cultural, volunteer and other interest driven activities as part of their trips. Industry leaders such as Home Based Travel Agents are creating PT positions as travel agents that are particularly appealing to this age group.
For people 50 and who want to retiree and still travel all over the world, many are becoming PT travel agents. This allows them to earn extra income and travel for pennies on the dollar. It is very interesting that travel is among the most aspirational concepts for this group. As such, incredible opportunities are being opened up for the Home Based Travel Agents, serving these peoples dreams of traveling around the world.
Monday
Buy Holiday Travel Insurance
The holidays are a great time for family travel, and the majority of trips go off smoothly. However, the risk of unforeseen circumstances can set the best-laid plans off course, and worse, may cause you to lose all or part of your vacation payments.
Five examples of how travel insurance can come to the rescue this holiday season.
1) Family Fevers: Your client's plane tickets and hotel reservations are paid for, and they have to cancel at the last minute because their child is sick. Travel insurance policies generally cover cancellation or interruption of a trip due to illness of an immediate family member, in case a family member becomes ill while traveling, or if an immediate relative back home takes ill or has an accident and forces your client to return home early.
2) Wreck the Walls-Home Disasters: Your client has to cancel your trip because their Christmas tree caught on fire and their home is uninhabitable due to smoke damage. In the event the client's home is made uninhabitable due to a catastrophe such as fire or flooding, travel insurance can help salvage nonrefundable vacation costs.
3) Illness on Vacation: Your client is on a family holiday get-away in the Caribbean, and a family member suffers a surfing accident. He needs to be transported to a hospital in Miami with specialists. Many medical plans have limited coverage for out of network or more than 100 miles away from home. Travel insurance can fill the gap between what the health insurance covers and the actual costs of medical care. Also, medical evacuation - which can run into hundreds of thousands of dollars - is typically not covered in standard health insurance policies.
4) Bye, Bye, Baggage: Your client lands in Atlanta but their baggage goes to Alaska. Most travel insurance policies will pay up to a fixed daily amount for replacement items needed due to baggage delays exceeding a certain period.
5) Bad Weather Blues: Because of a winter storm your client's return flight is grounded in Boston, where they must spend the night. They can't get home, and they have no hotel reservation. If a flight is canceled due to weather conditions, an airline is not required by law to provide accommodations. Travel insurance's 24-hour assistance lines and trip delay coverage will help locate a hotel room, reimburse up to a set amount for expenses while delayed, and help reschedule or rebook a flight.
The assistance hot line service will also help notify family and relay any necessary messages to workplaces and elsewhere. In addition to cruise and ski insurance policies, there are special travel insurance policies that cover situations such as canceling for work-related reasons or even canceling for any reason, Ansell said. These policies, while usually more costly than the average 4-8 percent of the trip cost for standard policies, will cover travelers against an even broader range of circumstances.
According to research, major reasons for purchasing travel insurance are peace of mind, protecting against the unforeseen, and being able to recoup considerable nonrefundable expenses. When helping a client decide if travel insurance is right for them and their family. You ahould ask them to determine how important peace of mind is to them, and how much money they could conceivably lose due to illness, emergency or catastrophe.
The more expensive their trip, the more likely they may want to protect their investment with travel insurance. One comprehensive policy can insure all family members traveling together, covering them against a wide range of possible mishaps.
Five examples of how travel insurance can come to the rescue this holiday season.
1) Family Fevers: Your client's plane tickets and hotel reservations are paid for, and they have to cancel at the last minute because their child is sick. Travel insurance policies generally cover cancellation or interruption of a trip due to illness of an immediate family member, in case a family member becomes ill while traveling, or if an immediate relative back home takes ill or has an accident and forces your client to return home early.
2) Wreck the Walls-Home Disasters: Your client has to cancel your trip because their Christmas tree caught on fire and their home is uninhabitable due to smoke damage. In the event the client's home is made uninhabitable due to a catastrophe such as fire or flooding, travel insurance can help salvage nonrefundable vacation costs.
3) Illness on Vacation: Your client is on a family holiday get-away in the Caribbean, and a family member suffers a surfing accident. He needs to be transported to a hospital in Miami with specialists. Many medical plans have limited coverage for out of network or more than 100 miles away from home. Travel insurance can fill the gap between what the health insurance covers and the actual costs of medical care. Also, medical evacuation - which can run into hundreds of thousands of dollars - is typically not covered in standard health insurance policies.
4) Bye, Bye, Baggage: Your client lands in Atlanta but their baggage goes to Alaska. Most travel insurance policies will pay up to a fixed daily amount for replacement items needed due to baggage delays exceeding a certain period.
5) Bad Weather Blues: Because of a winter storm your client's return flight is grounded in Boston, where they must spend the night. They can't get home, and they have no hotel reservation. If a flight is canceled due to weather conditions, an airline is not required by law to provide accommodations. Travel insurance's 24-hour assistance lines and trip delay coverage will help locate a hotel room, reimburse up to a set amount for expenses while delayed, and help reschedule or rebook a flight.
The assistance hot line service will also help notify family and relay any necessary messages to workplaces and elsewhere. In addition to cruise and ski insurance policies, there are special travel insurance policies that cover situations such as canceling for work-related reasons or even canceling for any reason, Ansell said. These policies, while usually more costly than the average 4-8 percent of the trip cost for standard policies, will cover travelers against an even broader range of circumstances.
According to research, major reasons for purchasing travel insurance are peace of mind, protecting against the unforeseen, and being able to recoup considerable nonrefundable expenses. When helping a client decide if travel insurance is right for them and their family. You ahould ask them to determine how important peace of mind is to them, and how much money they could conceivably lose due to illness, emergency or catastrophe.
The more expensive their trip, the more likely they may want to protect their investment with travel insurance. One comprehensive policy can insure all family members traveling together, covering them against a wide range of possible mishaps.
Friday
Ritz Tours Offers Travel Agents a Special Rate to China
Ritz Tours has introduced a special home based travel agent rate of $1,399 plus taxes per person for the 12-day Yangtze Essence winter program to Beijing, Xian, Shanghai and the Yangtze River.
This discounted price for travel agents includes airfare, hotel accommodations, sightseeing and more. To book, travel agents must have a valid IATA card at the time the reservation is made. The discounted price does not apply to travel companions unless they are also accredited travel agents. The regular rate for the Yangtze Essence winter program is $1,699 plus taxes, per person double.
The Yangtze Essence tour includes visits Beijing, Xian and a Yangtze River cruise onboard a deluxe Victoria Cruises vessel between Chongqing and Yichang. The Yangtze Essence program concludes with several nights in Shanghai.
Priced for agents from $1,399 plus taxes per person double, the tour features roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles or San Francisco (priced from $1,549 per person, double, from JFK in NY); airfare between cities visited in Asia; hotel accommodations; sightseeing in air-conditioned motor coaches; meals and entertainment per the itinerary; and the services of knowledgeable tour guides.
Travel insurance is not included but may be purchased separately. Departures are available for Dec. 1, Dec. 29, Jan. 5, Jan. 19, Feb. 2, Feb. 16 and Feb. 23. Add-on airfares are available for departures from various cities in the U.S. and Canada (including, but not limited to, Boston, Miami, Philadelphia, Dallas and Chicago). Add-on prices start from $200 per person depending on gateway. Call 800-900-2446 or visit http://www.ritztours.com/.
This discounted price for travel agents includes airfare, hotel accommodations, sightseeing and more. To book, travel agents must have a valid IATA card at the time the reservation is made. The discounted price does not apply to travel companions unless they are also accredited travel agents. The regular rate for the Yangtze Essence winter program is $1,699 plus taxes, per person double.
The Yangtze Essence tour includes visits Beijing, Xian and a Yangtze River cruise onboard a deluxe Victoria Cruises vessel between Chongqing and Yichang. The Yangtze Essence program concludes with several nights in Shanghai.
Priced for agents from $1,399 plus taxes per person double, the tour features roundtrip airfare from Los Angeles or San Francisco (priced from $1,549 per person, double, from JFK in NY); airfare between cities visited in Asia; hotel accommodations; sightseeing in air-conditioned motor coaches; meals and entertainment per the itinerary; and the services of knowledgeable tour guides.
Travel insurance is not included but may be purchased separately. Departures are available for Dec. 1, Dec. 29, Jan. 5, Jan. 19, Feb. 2, Feb. 16 and Feb. 23. Add-on airfares are available for departures from various cities in the U.S. and Canada (including, but not limited to, Boston, Miami, Philadelphia, Dallas and Chicago). Add-on prices start from $200 per person depending on gateway. Call 800-900-2446 or visit http://www.ritztours.com/.
Tuesday
Trafalgar Holding Travel Agent Training Seminars
Trafalgar Tours is inviting home based travel agents to join it in a series of free seminars to celebrate 60 years of touring excellence this fall and winter. Participating agents will receive $50 bonus commissions and a chance to win a vacation for two to Europe.
Trafalgar, a leader in escorted touring, was the first tour wholesaler to put City Packages and Experience Tours on the market. Trafalgar Tours' Fall and Winter Seminar Series will kick start the 2007 selling season with exciting educational sessions that promise to give travel agents valuable insight into the company's market-leading product line.
The seminars will travel to more than 40 cities and offer some 50 seminars throughout the U.S. between Nov. 13, 2006, and Jan. 16, 2007. The two- and three-hour seminars will include breakfast or lunch, depending on the city and the date. To register online, visit www.trafalgar.com/seminars.
Trafalgar, a leader in escorted touring, was the first tour wholesaler to put City Packages and Experience Tours on the market. Trafalgar Tours' Fall and Winter Seminar Series will kick start the 2007 selling season with exciting educational sessions that promise to give travel agents valuable insight into the company's market-leading product line.
The seminars will travel to more than 40 cities and offer some 50 seminars throughout the U.S. between Nov. 13, 2006, and Jan. 16, 2007. The two- and three-hour seminars will include breakfast or lunch, depending on the city and the date. To register online, visit www.trafalgar.com/seminars.
Monday
Home Based Travel Agent Achieves Top Level in Princess Cruise Line Program
Princess Cruises said an a home based travel agent in Quincy, Mass., has become the first to achieve top Commodore status in the four-month-old Princess Academy training program. Eric Lam, of Best Cruise Spot!, achieved the top rank by completing the 25 courses necessary to graduate from the online training program.
Princess Academy is designed to help agents sell more cruises and build their business by becoming experts on a wide range of topics from onboard dining options and destinations, to direct marketing tips and selling groups. The program recognizes agents as they move up through four ranks, with increasing levels of benefits, including onboard perks and even a graduation cruise.
"Princess has changed the way I work because now I can knowledgably talk to my clients as an expert about Princess' distinct features, ships and itineraries," Lam said. "I know I'll be able to increase my Princess bookings and grow my business as a result." As a Commodore, Lam will receive the company's highest recognition as a Princess expert, and can now complete his education with a graduation cruise to experience the onboard product firsthand.
Lam's will also now have prime positioning on the line's travel agent locator on Princess' website. Lam now will receive Elite-level onboard benefits in the Princess Captain's Circle program when cruising, including free Internet access, upgraded stateroom amenities, free mini-bar set-up, complimentary laundry and dry cleaning, priority embarkation, private afternoon tea, complimentary wine tasting, and a discount in the ship's boutiques.
To become a Commodore, agents must fulfill 25 required and elective classes, representing approximately 15 hours of total course work. Course offerings include Princess destinations, ships, dining options, and other onboard services.
In addition, agents learn about such selling tips and tools as princess.com, POLAR online, Princess eTickets, group sales, onboard future cruise sales, direct marketing and selling luxury travel. As they complete courses, agents receive their "stripes" through four levels: First Officer, Staff Captain, Captain and finally Commodore.
To register for Princess Academy, agents can log onto http://www.onesourcecruises.com/ or www.princess.com/onesource. The Academy Help Desk number is 800-544-9032
Princess Academy is designed to help agents sell more cruises and build their business by becoming experts on a wide range of topics from onboard dining options and destinations, to direct marketing tips and selling groups. The program recognizes agents as they move up through four ranks, with increasing levels of benefits, including onboard perks and even a graduation cruise.
"Princess has changed the way I work because now I can knowledgably talk to my clients as an expert about Princess' distinct features, ships and itineraries," Lam said. "I know I'll be able to increase my Princess bookings and grow my business as a result." As a Commodore, Lam will receive the company's highest recognition as a Princess expert, and can now complete his education with a graduation cruise to experience the onboard product firsthand.
Lam's will also now have prime positioning on the line's travel agent locator on Princess' website. Lam now will receive Elite-level onboard benefits in the Princess Captain's Circle program when cruising, including free Internet access, upgraded stateroom amenities, free mini-bar set-up, complimentary laundry and dry cleaning, priority embarkation, private afternoon tea, complimentary wine tasting, and a discount in the ship's boutiques.
To become a Commodore, agents must fulfill 25 required and elective classes, representing approximately 15 hours of total course work. Course offerings include Princess destinations, ships, dining options, and other onboard services.
In addition, agents learn about such selling tips and tools as princess.com, POLAR online, Princess eTickets, group sales, onboard future cruise sales, direct marketing and selling luxury travel. As they complete courses, agents receive their "stripes" through four levels: First Officer, Staff Captain, Captain and finally Commodore.
To register for Princess Academy, agents can log onto http://www.onesourcecruises.com/ or www.princess.com/onesource. The Academy Help Desk number is 800-544-9032
Friday
Special Winter Savings at Disney World
Disney World Resort has introduced a specially discounted package that includes free ticket upgrades -- park hopper and water park fun and more options -- a savings of up to $114 per adult.
The free park hopper option gives clients maximum flexibility to come and go from one theme park to another each day. The free water park fun and more option lets clients enjoy a total of four visits per person to their choice of a Disney Water Park, DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive theme park or the Downtown Disney Pleasure Island nightclubs.
Clients booked on the Walt Disney Travel Company's Magic Your Way Package during this offer can enjoy a four-night package for as little as $377 per adult, $221 per junior and $182 per child, based on adult double occupancy at a Disney Value Resort standard room.
This offer is available for travel most nights Jan. 1 to Feb. 14, 2007, and includes accommodations, theme park tickets and free ticket upgrades. Other rates are also available most nights from Feb. 15 to March 8, 2007. Ask for package code ZCM at the time of booking; the offer must be booked by Dec. 16, 2006. For more information, call 800-327-2996 or visit www.disneytravelagents.com.
The free park hopper option gives clients maximum flexibility to come and go from one theme park to another each day. The free water park fun and more option lets clients enjoy a total of four visits per person to their choice of a Disney Water Park, DisneyQuest Indoor Interactive theme park or the Downtown Disney Pleasure Island nightclubs.
Clients booked on the Walt Disney Travel Company's Magic Your Way Package during this offer can enjoy a four-night package for as little as $377 per adult, $221 per junior and $182 per child, based on adult double occupancy at a Disney Value Resort standard room.
This offer is available for travel most nights Jan. 1 to Feb. 14, 2007, and includes accommodations, theme park tickets and free ticket upgrades. Other rates are also available most nights from Feb. 15 to March 8, 2007. Ask for package code ZCM at the time of booking; the offer must be booked by Dec. 16, 2006. For more information, call 800-327-2996 or visit www.disneytravelagents.com.
Thursday
GOGO Offers Early Booking Discounts
GOGO Worldwide Vacations Winter Caribbean Sale will allow clients to travel during the high season while paying low season prices. Those that book now through Nov. 15 for travel Jan. 1 through March 9 can save on hundreds of hotels in more than 30 islands.
A sample of the packages includes Radisson Cable Beach all-inclusive in the Bahamas, three nights from Miami, $519; Marriott Frenchman's Reef, St. Thomas, five nights from Chicago, $1,259; Westin Aruba Resort, Spa & Casino, five nights from New York, $1,269; Excellence Punta Cana all-inclusive, five nights from Boston, $1,269; and Sandals Grande Ocho Rios Beach & Villa Resort all-inclusive, five nights from New York, $1,315. Call 800-229-4999or visit www.gogowwv.com
A sample of the packages includes Radisson Cable Beach all-inclusive in the Bahamas, three nights from Miami, $519; Marriott Frenchman's Reef, St. Thomas, five nights from Chicago, $1,259; Westin Aruba Resort, Spa & Casino, five nights from New York, $1,269; Excellence Punta Cana all-inclusive, five nights from Boston, $1,269; and Sandals Grande Ocho Rios Beach & Villa Resort all-inclusive, five nights from New York, $1,315. Call 800-229-4999or visit www.gogowwv.com
Special Holiday Season Cruises from Carnival
Carnival Cruise Lines is offering holiday cruises on all 21 of its ships this year, offering a variety of three- to eight-day voyages to the Bahamas, Caribbean and Mexico from 11 North American homeports. The ships' atrium and promenade areas will be adorned with Christmas trees, garland, wreaths and mistletoe, along with signage proclaiming traditional holiday greetings.
The spirit of the season continues with a holiday-themed revue with sets that evoke a "home away from home" atmosphere complete with a faux oversized fireplace, large sofas and a Christmas tree with decorations created by the kids from the "Camp Carnival" program. Kids will also have an opportunity to perform a dance routine with the ships' entertainers. Santa Claus also makes an appearance, bringing along a sack full of toys, which are distributed to all children on board.
A parade of crewmembers representing dozens of different nationalities on board closes the popular show. Holiday menus include oven-roasted turkey with all the trimmings and pecan pie. Other featured events include caroling and readings of traditional holiday stories such as "Twas the Night Before Christmas" by the ship's staff, while holiday-themed movies such as "The Polar Express" are shown on the in-cabin televisions.
The New Year's cruises feature a traditional countdown with complimentary noisemakers, party favors and champagne.
Short cruises are priced, for example, from $499 per person for a four-day Bahamas cruise aboard the Sensation from Port Canaveral, a five-day Caribbean cruise aboard the Fantasy from New Orleans, or a five-day Key West/Nassau cruise on the Celebration from Jacksonville.
For those looking for a longer cruise, seven-day Caribbean cruises from San Juan by the Carnival Destiny or from Miami by Carnival Victory are priced from $749 per person. Seven-day Caribbean voyages from Tampa aboard the Carnival Miracle or from Miami aboard the Carnival Valor are available from $799.
The above prices are based on double occupancy for an interior (category 4A) stateroom and are subject to change without notice. For more information, call 800-327-9501 or visit the travel agent site at www.bookccl.com.
The spirit of the season continues with a holiday-themed revue with sets that evoke a "home away from home" atmosphere complete with a faux oversized fireplace, large sofas and a Christmas tree with decorations created by the kids from the "Camp Carnival" program. Kids will also have an opportunity to perform a dance routine with the ships' entertainers. Santa Claus also makes an appearance, bringing along a sack full of toys, which are distributed to all children on board.
A parade of crewmembers representing dozens of different nationalities on board closes the popular show. Holiday menus include oven-roasted turkey with all the trimmings and pecan pie. Other featured events include caroling and readings of traditional holiday stories such as "Twas the Night Before Christmas" by the ship's staff, while holiday-themed movies such as "The Polar Express" are shown on the in-cabin televisions.
The New Year's cruises feature a traditional countdown with complimentary noisemakers, party favors and champagne.
Short cruises are priced, for example, from $499 per person for a four-day Bahamas cruise aboard the Sensation from Port Canaveral, a five-day Caribbean cruise aboard the Fantasy from New Orleans, or a five-day Key West/Nassau cruise on the Celebration from Jacksonville.
For those looking for a longer cruise, seven-day Caribbean cruises from San Juan by the Carnival Destiny or from Miami by Carnival Victory are priced from $749 per person. Seven-day Caribbean voyages from Tampa aboard the Carnival Miracle or from Miami aboard the Carnival Valor are available from $799.
The above prices are based on double occupancy for an interior (category 4A) stateroom and are subject to change without notice. For more information, call 800-327-9501 or visit the travel agent site at www.bookccl.com.
Wednesday
Gutsy Women Introduces 12-Day Thai Tour
For 2007 Gutsy Women Travel is introducing a 12-day journey to Thailand. This tour includes stays in Bangkok, Chiang Rai, and Chiang Mai and is priced from $2,479 per person double including roundtrip economy class airfare from Los Angeles.
There will be five departures in 2007 including Feb. 18, March 8, Sept. 20, Oct. 25, and Nov. 15. According to April Merenda, president and co-founder of Gutsy Women Travel: "This tour is particularly well-suited to a single traveler or two women who may not have traveled much. They are anxious to explore other parts of the world, yet hesitant to do it on their own."
The package includes a Bangkok City Tour; private Tai Chi Lesson in Lumpini Park; tour to Ayutthaya and Bang-Pa-In Summer Palace; a visit a Chinese Refugee Village; a trip to Myanmar; a Thai Cooking Class; a visit to the Mae Sa Elephant Training Camp; a tour of three temples: the Wat Traimit, Wat Po, and Wat Benchamabophit; a dinner at a local Thai home, hosted by a leading lady of Chiang Rai; a complete two-hour "Lanna-style Spa," including Aromatherapy, a Thai Herbal Steam, and a traditional Thai Massage; and a visit to the Handicraft Village and Factories and see firsthand how traditional crafts are made (Thai silk and cotton looms, Bo-Sang paper umbrellas, Celadon Kilns, lacquerware, teakwood carvings, jewelry, and silverware).
The package includes roundtrip flights Los Angeles to Bangkok (other departure cities available), intra-Thailand flights, three nights at the Bangkok Marriott Resort & Spa, three nights at the Dusit Island Resort, Chiang Rai, three nights at the Sheraton Chiang Mai Hotel, Chiang Mai and one night at the Novotel Bangna Bangkok, 10 breakfasts, six lunches, four dinners, sightseeing and activities as mentioned in program and a Tour Director throughout.
All prices include airline fuel surcharges as of May 31, 2006, but do not include visa fees, airport taxes, fees, and September 11th Security Fee which varies between $50 and $130 per person. Call 866-IMGUTSY or visit www.gutsywomentravel.com.
There will be five departures in 2007 including Feb. 18, March 8, Sept. 20, Oct. 25, and Nov. 15. According to April Merenda, president and co-founder of Gutsy Women Travel: "This tour is particularly well-suited to a single traveler or two women who may not have traveled much. They are anxious to explore other parts of the world, yet hesitant to do it on their own."
The package includes a Bangkok City Tour; private Tai Chi Lesson in Lumpini Park; tour to Ayutthaya and Bang-Pa-In Summer Palace; a visit a Chinese Refugee Village; a trip to Myanmar; a Thai Cooking Class; a visit to the Mae Sa Elephant Training Camp; a tour of three temples: the Wat Traimit, Wat Po, and Wat Benchamabophit; a dinner at a local Thai home, hosted by a leading lady of Chiang Rai; a complete two-hour "Lanna-style Spa," including Aromatherapy, a Thai Herbal Steam, and a traditional Thai Massage; and a visit to the Handicraft Village and Factories and see firsthand how traditional crafts are made (Thai silk and cotton looms, Bo-Sang paper umbrellas, Celadon Kilns, lacquerware, teakwood carvings, jewelry, and silverware).
The package includes roundtrip flights Los Angeles to Bangkok (other departure cities available), intra-Thailand flights, three nights at the Bangkok Marriott Resort & Spa, three nights at the Dusit Island Resort, Chiang Rai, three nights at the Sheraton Chiang Mai Hotel, Chiang Mai and one night at the Novotel Bangna Bangkok, 10 breakfasts, six lunches, four dinners, sightseeing and activities as mentioned in program and a Tour Director throughout.
All prices include airline fuel surcharges as of May 31, 2006, but do not include visa fees, airport taxes, fees, and September 11th Security Fee which varies between $50 and $130 per person. Call 866-IMGUTSY or visit www.gutsywomentravel.com.
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