Home Bsaed Travel Agents have opportunity to become Puerto Vallarta specialists with the new PV Pro Specialist Program. This interactive on-line program offers agents information and tips on the destination along with perks, incentives and ongoing support to help them sell travel to Puerto Vallarta. The new interactive program gives agents an opportunity to gain in-depth knowledge on all that the destination has to offer, from its vast array of accommodations, to restaurants, activities, eco-tours and canopy tours, ATV excursions, mountain biking, horseback riding, and whale watching. PV Pro was developed by Destination Ventures, a company that specializes in helping agents sell travel to Mexico.
Home Based Travel Agents interested in becoming a Puerto Vallarta specialist can register on-line for the free PV Pro program. The program offers agents numerous benefits including an on-going support program, in addition to perks and incentives to help them better sell the destination. Some of the benefits include three CEUs from The Travel Institute and CITC (Canada); sales materials on the interactive online campus in PDF format; an online chat room that allows "students" to connect with other agents selling Puerto Vallarta to share tips and ideas; a listing on the official Puerto Vallarta Tourism Board website giving consumers an opportunity to find a PV pro in their area.; an electronic newsletter with news and information on Puerto Vallarta; graduates can earn reward points for every booking they sell to Puerto Vallarta by registering the details online (points can be used towards fam trips to Puerto Vallarta). For more information, visit http://www.visitpuertovallarta.com/
Learn How to Become A Travel Agent... Open your own Home Based Travel Agency
Friday
NCL is Converting to Electronic Cruise Documents
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) and NCL America on May 28 will convert to an electronic documentation process for all cruise bookings. For reservations that are paid in full and finalized, e-documents will be available up to 60 days prior to sailing.
In addition, guests will have 24/7 access to their cruise documents online. "Our mission for our guests is to provide a great vacation experience from beginning to end," said Andy Stuart, NCL's executive vice president of marketing, sales and passenger services.
"E-docs offer increased flexibility and choice for all of our guests further supporting the freedom and flexibility offered by our signature Freestyle Cruising, in addition to significantly enhancing reliability and earlier delivery of cruise documents.
"Travel agents or guests with fully paid reservations after May 28 will begin receiving email messages from NCL that notify them that electronic documents are ready and can be accessed via an imbedded link in the email. As an added convenience for travel agents, the subject line of the emails will contain the guest name, reservation number, and ship and sail date, allowing travel partners to easily organize incoming email messages.
In addition, travel documents can be accessed from any computer with Internet access by going to a designated section of NCL's website. Once the cruise documents are accessed, the travel partner or guest views HTML-based cruise documents that can be printed or forwarded on to clients or traveling companions. Guests can also complete their online advance guest registration form up to four days prior to sailing, giving them 10 days longer than the current system allows.
NCL's e-documents include a welcome-aboard letter, cruise ticket, passenger terms and conditions, airline e-ticket if air travel arrangements have been made through NCL's air/sea program, pre- or post-cruise hotel vouchers (if applicable), pre- or post-cruise transfer vouchers (if applicable) and electronic luggage tags that are printable online.
In advance of the e-documents, travel agents or guests with paid reservations will receive a new pre-documentation Freestyle Cruising Kit in the mail approximately 75 to 21 days prior to their scheduled sailing. This kit includes a personalized welcome letter, NCL's welcome-aboard booklet that answers questions they may have prior to their cruise, a shore excursion order form and booklet, personalized luggage tags and travel protection plan details, if applicable.
To prepare for the shift to e-documents, agents are strongly encouraged to visit www.ncl.com/agencyupdate between April 26 and May 28 to update their agency profile. "We've built this system to meet the needs of our travel partners," said Crane Gladding, NCL's vice president of passenger services. "We've made it as flexible as possible, so that travel partners can indicate their preferences for the delivery of the Freestyle Cruising Kit, as well as the e-documents." For more information, call 800-327-7030 or visit www.ncl.com.
In addition, guests will have 24/7 access to their cruise documents online. "Our mission for our guests is to provide a great vacation experience from beginning to end," said Andy Stuart, NCL's executive vice president of marketing, sales and passenger services.
"E-docs offer increased flexibility and choice for all of our guests further supporting the freedom and flexibility offered by our signature Freestyle Cruising, in addition to significantly enhancing reliability and earlier delivery of cruise documents.
"Travel agents or guests with fully paid reservations after May 28 will begin receiving email messages from NCL that notify them that electronic documents are ready and can be accessed via an imbedded link in the email. As an added convenience for travel agents, the subject line of the emails will contain the guest name, reservation number, and ship and sail date, allowing travel partners to easily organize incoming email messages.
In addition, travel documents can be accessed from any computer with Internet access by going to a designated section of NCL's website. Once the cruise documents are accessed, the travel partner or guest views HTML-based cruise documents that can be printed or forwarded on to clients or traveling companions. Guests can also complete their online advance guest registration form up to four days prior to sailing, giving them 10 days longer than the current system allows.
NCL's e-documents include a welcome-aboard letter, cruise ticket, passenger terms and conditions, airline e-ticket if air travel arrangements have been made through NCL's air/sea program, pre- or post-cruise hotel vouchers (if applicable), pre- or post-cruise transfer vouchers (if applicable) and electronic luggage tags that are printable online.
In advance of the e-documents, travel agents or guests with paid reservations will receive a new pre-documentation Freestyle Cruising Kit in the mail approximately 75 to 21 days prior to their scheduled sailing. This kit includes a personalized welcome letter, NCL's welcome-aboard booklet that answers questions they may have prior to their cruise, a shore excursion order form and booklet, personalized luggage tags and travel protection plan details, if applicable.
To prepare for the shift to e-documents, agents are strongly encouraged to visit www.ncl.com/agencyupdate between April 26 and May 28 to update their agency profile. "We've built this system to meet the needs of our travel partners," said Crane Gladding, NCL's vice president of passenger services. "We've made it as flexible as possible, so that travel partners can indicate their preferences for the delivery of the Freestyle Cruising Kit, as well as the e-documents." For more information, call 800-327-7030 or visit www.ncl.com.
Zagat Releases Walt Disney World Insider's Guide
Zagat Survey announced the release of its first Walt Disney World Insider's Guide. Based on the experiences of 4,841 avid Disney-goers, the guide comprehensively rates and reviews all six of Disney's Orlando theme parks, including rides and attractions, shopping, dining, nightlife, golf, hotels, resorts and even the Disney Cruise Line.
It also features tips on how to save money and minimize waits for rides and attractions. And because of the diversity of Disney visitors, the guide rates every attraction for both "Adult" and "Child Appeal" and provides a rating especially for those "Thrill" seekers. For more information, visit http://www.zagat.com/.
It also features tips on how to save money and minimize waits for rides and attractions. And because of the diversity of Disney visitors, the guide rates every attraction for both "Adult" and "Child Appeal" and provides a rating especially for those "Thrill" seekers. For more information, visit http://www.zagat.com/.
Thursday
SinglesCruise.com Focuses on Home Based Travel Agents
SinglesCruise.com announced a new focus on developing relationships with home based travel agents who book single clients into their onboard entertainment program.
As part of the new initiative, SinglesCruise.com will now be offering 10 percent commission. "We are hoping to introduce the SinglesCruise.com experience to new single travelers across the country, and there's no better way to do that than by creating partnerships with travel providers who have adventurous single clientele," said Chris Parker, director of SinglesCruise.com. "Going forward, we will work closely together to provide their clients with a lively singles vacation experience that they wouldn't get by cruising on their own."SinglesCruise.com provides a number of tools to help home based travel agents market singles cruises, including promotional cruise flyers that they can download off the website and customize with their own contact information.
The newly revamped SinglesCruise.com site also tells agents about the program and what their clients can expect onboard. SinglesCruise.com is offering a variety of singles cruises throughout the summer including a seven-night Memorial Day cruise to the Western Caribbean departing May 26; a seven-night Alaska cruise departing June 6, a six-night exotic Western Caribbean cruise departing June 17, a 12-night cruise through the Mediterranean and Greek Isles departing July 12, and a luxury sailing to northern Europe and Russia departing July 28. For more information, call 800-393-5000 or visit http://www.singlescruise.com/.
As part of the new initiative, SinglesCruise.com will now be offering 10 percent commission. "We are hoping to introduce the SinglesCruise.com experience to new single travelers across the country, and there's no better way to do that than by creating partnerships with travel providers who have adventurous single clientele," said Chris Parker, director of SinglesCruise.com. "Going forward, we will work closely together to provide their clients with a lively singles vacation experience that they wouldn't get by cruising on their own."SinglesCruise.com provides a number of tools to help home based travel agents market singles cruises, including promotional cruise flyers that they can download off the website and customize with their own contact information.
The newly revamped SinglesCruise.com site also tells agents about the program and what their clients can expect onboard. SinglesCruise.com is offering a variety of singles cruises throughout the summer including a seven-night Memorial Day cruise to the Western Caribbean departing May 26; a seven-night Alaska cruise departing June 6, a six-night exotic Western Caribbean cruise departing June 17, a 12-night cruise through the Mediterranean and Greek Isles departing July 12, and a luxury sailing to northern Europe and Russia departing July 28. For more information, call 800-393-5000 or visit http://www.singlescruise.com/.
VAX Enhances Cruise Component, Adds Seabourn
VAX Vacation Access has enhanced its cruise booking engine, adding content and fine-tuning the booking process. It has also added another cruise line, Seabourn Cruises.
The cruise engine has destination information for more than 250 ports of call and real-time availability. It has enlarged deck plans, detailed stateroom descriptions and amenities and enhanced itineraries with ship-docking details and destination information.
To publicize its enhancements, VAX is also offering agents a chance to win $250. When agents make five bookings in VAX, they are automatically entered into a drawing for $250. Bookings must be made by May 31. For more information, visit www.vaxvacationaccess.com/cruise.
The cruise engine has destination information for more than 250 ports of call and real-time availability. It has enlarged deck plans, detailed stateroom descriptions and amenities and enhanced itineraries with ship-docking details and destination information.
To publicize its enhancements, VAX is also offering agents a chance to win $250. When agents make five bookings in VAX, they are automatically entered into a drawing for $250. Bookings must be made by May 31. For more information, visit www.vaxvacationaccess.com/cruise.
Wednesday
Royal Caribbeans "Locate a Travel Agent"
Royal Caribbean International is enhancing the "Locate a Travel Agent" section of its website, Lisa Bauer, the line's senior vice president, North American sales, said during the America's Vacation Center University Travel Executive Forum webinar yesterday.
Site visitors will be able to search by a travel agent's name as well as by city, state or zip code. Agents will be able to go onto Cruising Power and fill out a form with details about themselves such as how long they've been in business, their specialties, industry certifications and similar information.
Agents will be able to upload their logo or photos and describe the agency, essentially creating their own advertisement for themselves on the website. Agents who have graduated from Royal Caribbean's University of WOW will be listed as Royal Caribbean experts. Bauer said that 5,000 agents have enrolled in the University since it was announced three years ago and 2,800 are already Royal Caribbean experts.
Royal Caribbean is also launching a youth recognition program for children who sail with their families with the cruise line. In May, agents will be able to book insurance for groups sailing on Royal Caribbean directly with RCI instead of with their insurance carrier. For more information, visit www.royalcaribbean.com.
Site visitors will be able to search by a travel agent's name as well as by city, state or zip code. Agents will be able to go onto Cruising Power and fill out a form with details about themselves such as how long they've been in business, their specialties, industry certifications and similar information.
Agents will be able to upload their logo or photos and describe the agency, essentially creating their own advertisement for themselves on the website. Agents who have graduated from Royal Caribbean's University of WOW will be listed as Royal Caribbean experts. Bauer said that 5,000 agents have enrolled in the University since it was announced three years ago and 2,800 are already Royal Caribbean experts.
Royal Caribbean is also launching a youth recognition program for children who sail with their families with the cruise line. In May, agents will be able to book insurance for groups sailing on Royal Caribbean directly with RCI instead of with their insurance carrier. For more information, visit www.royalcaribbean.com.
Tuesday
Business Cards
Almost all of us take our business cards for granted. We all have them and we all use them. But most of us -- do not use them as effectively as we should!
Business cards are one of the least expensive forms of advertising and promotion that we have. Travel Agents should give them out anywhere and everywhere. If you are not using a box of cards every few months, they are not using them enough.
It may be a bit far fetched, but we have atravel agents who give business cards to everyone in the supermarket check-out line and even carry laminated cards to give away when swimming.travel Agents should carry cards at all times. You should give them to anyone you meet who asks or comments about travel in the supermarket, at the hairdresser or anywhere. Many local businesses have bulletin boards or tables displaying business cards of local businesses. Display your cards wherever you can. Ask store owners you know if you can leave some by the check out counter.
One travel agent made a deal with Dominos pizza to give $10. Gift certificates and her business card towards travel package or cruise with all pizza deliveries for one month. The gift certificate had Dominos name it. So it look like it was a thank you for shopping from Dominos. But it could only be cashed if the client book a cruise with the agent. You could do that with any store. The $10 or $20. gift certificate thank card from that store cost them nothing. It's a win, win program.
Business cards form the base of an active referral request system. Travel Agents should send thank you notes to all cruise and tour clients. They should ask clients to recommend the travel agents' services to their friends and relatives.
Three business cards should be enclosed in each note with a reminder to the client to give them to friends who travel.While we can't expect all cards to be given out, many will. It is a proven fact that it costs far less to secure repeat and referral business than to attract totally new clients. Clients referred by other satisfied clients will come with built-in trust concerning your ability to meet their needs.
The more business cards are distributed, the more there are opportunities to attract potential clients and expand our client base. Think of it as casting bread upon the water. The more you give out the you get back.
Business cards are one of the least expensive forms of advertising and promotion that we have. Travel Agents should give them out anywhere and everywhere. If you are not using a box of cards every few months, they are not using them enough.
It may be a bit far fetched, but we have atravel agents who give business cards to everyone in the supermarket check-out line and even carry laminated cards to give away when swimming.travel Agents should carry cards at all times. You should give them to anyone you meet who asks or comments about travel in the supermarket, at the hairdresser or anywhere. Many local businesses have bulletin boards or tables displaying business cards of local businesses. Display your cards wherever you can. Ask store owners you know if you can leave some by the check out counter.
One travel agent made a deal with Dominos pizza to give $10. Gift certificates and her business card towards travel package or cruise with all pizza deliveries for one month. The gift certificate had Dominos name it. So it look like it was a thank you for shopping from Dominos. But it could only be cashed if the client book a cruise with the agent. You could do that with any store. The $10 or $20. gift certificate thank card from that store cost them nothing. It's a win, win program.
Business cards form the base of an active referral request system. Travel Agents should send thank you notes to all cruise and tour clients. They should ask clients to recommend the travel agents' services to their friends and relatives.
Three business cards should be enclosed in each note with a reminder to the client to give them to friends who travel.While we can't expect all cards to be given out, many will. It is a proven fact that it costs far less to secure repeat and referral business than to attract totally new clients. Clients referred by other satisfied clients will come with built-in trust concerning your ability to meet their needs.
The more business cards are distributed, the more there are opportunities to attract potential clients and expand our client base. Think of it as casting bread upon the water. The more you give out the you get back.
Monday
Consolidator Shopper makes it easey for home based travel agents to sell air tickets and make a profit
The AgentNet Consolidator Shopper Service is a powerful supplementary tool that facilities transactions between home-based travel agents and consolidators.
With access to millions of consolidator fares from the top consolidators in the US and Canada, consolidator Shopper enables home based travel agents the ability to sell consolidator tickets more effectively.
The Consolidator Shopper tool is extremely valuable as home based travel agents can avoid long hold times. Consolidator Shopper also allows businesses to grow more rapidly through its cost-saving features. In one simple step, you can mark-up fares to best suit your needs.
Consolidator Shopper provides multiple consolidator fare comparisons along with real-time confirmed bookings, which means more options for your customer and less phone time for agents. Powerful search and tracking features combined with the most complete content result in an unparalleled tool that increases your revenues.
Easy to use:
Booking consolidator fare has never been easier with this one-stop air shopping tool that brings inventory from the industry's leading consolidators into a single, integrated, online platform.
5 REASONS TO LOVE AGENTNET CONSOLIDATED SHOPPER:
1. Ability to check and view availability status of multiple consolidator's fares as well as published fares, creating a one-stop shopping and comparison source.
2. Flexible Dates feature with seven-day search function, allowing agents to quickly shop for the lowest consolidator fare on alternate dates if the requested date is not available.
3. Invoice printing for your clients from within Consolidator Shopper reflecting your markups.
4. Availability Status Display that indicates, from the fare display screen, if a consolidator fare is available or unavailable for the selected dates, eliminating the need to check availability for a specific fare.
5. Display of fares in either US or Canadian currency based on the fare amount in the currency chosen by the user and to the fare amount in the currency that must be remitted to the consolidator.
Consolidator Shopper is one of the tools available at http://www.agentnet.com/ and is FREE to all members of Home-BasedTravelAgents.com
With access to millions of consolidator fares from the top consolidators in the US and Canada, consolidator Shopper enables home based travel agents the ability to sell consolidator tickets more effectively.
The Consolidator Shopper tool is extremely valuable as home based travel agents can avoid long hold times. Consolidator Shopper also allows businesses to grow more rapidly through its cost-saving features. In one simple step, you can mark-up fares to best suit your needs.
Consolidator Shopper provides multiple consolidator fare comparisons along with real-time confirmed bookings, which means more options for your customer and less phone time for agents. Powerful search and tracking features combined with the most complete content result in an unparalleled tool that increases your revenues.
Easy to use:
Booking consolidator fare has never been easier with this one-stop air shopping tool that brings inventory from the industry's leading consolidators into a single, integrated, online platform.
5 REASONS TO LOVE AGENTNET CONSOLIDATED SHOPPER:
1. Ability to check and view availability status of multiple consolidator's fares as well as published fares, creating a one-stop shopping and comparison source.
2. Flexible Dates feature with seven-day search function, allowing agents to quickly shop for the lowest consolidator fare on alternate dates if the requested date is not available.
3. Invoice printing for your clients from within Consolidator Shopper reflecting your markups.
4. Availability Status Display that indicates, from the fare display screen, if a consolidator fare is available or unavailable for the selected dates, eliminating the need to check availability for a specific fare.
5. Display of fares in either US or Canadian currency based on the fare amount in the currency chosen by the user and to the fare amount in the currency that must be remitted to the consolidator.
Consolidator Shopper is one of the tools available at http://www.agentnet.com/ and is FREE to all members of Home-BasedTravelAgents.com
Friday
Travel agents compete aggressively for new customers
Travel agents compete aggressively for new customers with expensive advertising and then lose customers out the bottom of the bucket as fast as they poor new ones in the top. You can become more successful with an old fashioned weapon...service!
Within 3 to 5 days after a client comes back from there vacation, you should call the client and see how the vacation went. This shows the client you not only want to SELL vacations. But that you are truly concerned with the clients welfare. If the vacation went good then you can tell other clients about the destination.
But what if the vacation went BAD??? This is why agents are afraid and don't call clients. It is also why agents lose clients. If it went bad you want to know about it, so you don't send any one else there. We all have to deal with dissatisfied even angry customers from time to time. Sometimes the customer is justified in his complaints other times he is not, but the handling of the dissatisfied customer can have far reaching impact on your business.
I want to talk with you about techniques that you should consider when dealing with the dissatisfied customer:
Step one - acknowledge that the person is upset. Example, I can see that you are upset. or I could see that you're upset with that situation.
Step two - make a sad/glad statement. Example, I'm sorry you had a problem but I'm glad that you called it to my attention.
Step three - asks the magic question, "What will make you happy?" Example, Mr. Smith what will it take to make you happy in settling this problem? Incidentally often the dissatisfied customer will ask for something less in settlement than you would freely offer.
Step four - make a positive reassuring statement. Example -, Mr. Smith I'm truly sorry that you encountered this problem. Will you please put it in writing and send it to me. As soon as I receive it I will attach a cover letter from the agency to reinforce, what you have told me and send it to the supplier. I want to keep you as my client and I will personally follow up on this situation on your behalf and I want you to know I will get something done about your problem.
If the supplier wont do anything for client, have supplier put it in writing so you can send it to client. This will prove you did follow up and are working for the client. You can all so offer the client a gift certificate of say $20 or $50. towards there next vacation. This wont cost you any thing unless they book agene with you. It will reduce your commission, but you will retain your client.
Successful travel agents are service oriented agents. All clients should be called 2 to 4 times per year just to say hi. Tell them they are a preferred client and ask them to help you. Ask if they know of any one who is getting married and wants a honeymoon or is planning a cruise or vacation and could use your help. One they will help you get new clients and two they will automatically tell you where they want to go on there next vacation. You gain two clients with one call. Agents that do this religiously are VERY successful. Take action, 1 or 2 phone calls a day, times 365 days equals a ton of sales. I call this dialing for dollars.
Paul Davis, President
www.HomeBased-TravelAgents.com
PS new agents can call friends and relatives, you can get the same results.
PPS If some one is referred to you, after you call them about there needs, just before you hang up the phone ask by the way do YOU know of any one who is getting married and wants a honeymoon or is planning a cruise or vacation and could use my help. Keep repeating this process and you will NEVER run out of clients.
PPPS Good Service and action on your part will bring you more clients than expensive advertising ever will.
Within 3 to 5 days after a client comes back from there vacation, you should call the client and see how the vacation went. This shows the client you not only want to SELL vacations. But that you are truly concerned with the clients welfare. If the vacation went good then you can tell other clients about the destination.
But what if the vacation went BAD??? This is why agents are afraid and don't call clients. It is also why agents lose clients. If it went bad you want to know about it, so you don't send any one else there. We all have to deal with dissatisfied even angry customers from time to time. Sometimes the customer is justified in his complaints other times he is not, but the handling of the dissatisfied customer can have far reaching impact on your business.
I want to talk with you about techniques that you should consider when dealing with the dissatisfied customer:
Step one - acknowledge that the person is upset. Example, I can see that you are upset. or I could see that you're upset with that situation.
Step two - make a sad/glad statement. Example, I'm sorry you had a problem but I'm glad that you called it to my attention.
Step three - asks the magic question, "What will make you happy?" Example, Mr. Smith what will it take to make you happy in settling this problem? Incidentally often the dissatisfied customer will ask for something less in settlement than you would freely offer.
Step four - make a positive reassuring statement. Example -, Mr. Smith I'm truly sorry that you encountered this problem. Will you please put it in writing and send it to me. As soon as I receive it I will attach a cover letter from the agency to reinforce, what you have told me and send it to the supplier. I want to keep you as my client and I will personally follow up on this situation on your behalf and I want you to know I will get something done about your problem.
If the supplier wont do anything for client, have supplier put it in writing so you can send it to client. This will prove you did follow up and are working for the client. You can all so offer the client a gift certificate of say $20 or $50. towards there next vacation. This wont cost you any thing unless they book agene with you. It will reduce your commission, but you will retain your client.
Successful travel agents are service oriented agents. All clients should be called 2 to 4 times per year just to say hi. Tell them they are a preferred client and ask them to help you. Ask if they know of any one who is getting married and wants a honeymoon or is planning a cruise or vacation and could use your help. One they will help you get new clients and two they will automatically tell you where they want to go on there next vacation. You gain two clients with one call. Agents that do this religiously are VERY successful. Take action, 1 or 2 phone calls a day, times 365 days equals a ton of sales. I call this dialing for dollars.
Paul Davis, President
www.HomeBased-TravelAgents.com
PS new agents can call friends and relatives, you can get the same results.
PPS If some one is referred to you, after you call them about there needs, just before you hang up the phone ask by the way do YOU know of any one who is getting married and wants a honeymoon or is planning a cruise or vacation and could use my help. Keep repeating this process and you will NEVER run out of clients.
PPPS Good Service and action on your part will bring you more clients than expensive advertising ever will.
Wednesday
Celebrity Cruises offers Home Based Travel Agent Tools
Celebrity Cruises is offering educational opportunities and tools geared toward home based travel agents in improving their bottom line.
The Celebrity Special Travel Agent Training Academy is a package of education and training resources, tools, programs, and agent incentives. The program's first initiative is a series of half-day seminars with interactive, the opportunity to win prizes, the chance to network with other travel agents, and a surprise indulgence in the Celebrity Treatment brand experience.
Participants can earn 10 Cruise Line Industry Association credits by attending the seminar.Fifteen seminars are scheduled through August for Dallas; Providence, R.I.; Virginia Beach, Va.; Vancouver, British Columbia; Walnut Creek, California; Newark, N.J.; Bethesda, Md.; Toronto; Cleveland; Denver; St. Louis; Phoenix; King of Prussia, Pa.; Tampa, Fla.; and Fort Lauderdale. Travel agents interested in participating should visit http://www.cruisingpower.com/ for more information, or contact their Celebrity Cruises sales manager.
The Celebrity Special Agent Academy is the next phase in the Celebrity Special Agent education and sales incentive program that kicked off in February. Through the promotion's online education component, participating travel agents can earn up to six CLIA credits. Additionally, each Celebrity Alaska, Europe or Expeditions booking made during the contest period becomes an entry toward winning one of several prizes being offered. All travel agents are eligible to participate. More details are available online at www.cruisingpower.com/booktowin.
Celebrity also has launched a new onboard booking program called Celebrity Passages. It is open to U.S. citizens and enables guests who wish to book a future cruise the option to prepay a small portion ($100 per person) without choosing an actual ship and sail date, and gain an onboard credit benefit on their future cruise. Travel partners will be notified when one of their customers purchases a Celebrity Passage via fax confirmation, and a postcard completed by the guest noting their top three future cruise preferences. Travel agents can then follow up with their customers to encourage them to book the new reservation and apply the Celebrity Passages account value. The onboard credit benefit is based on the purchase price of the new cruise, and varies between $50 and $300, with the greatest benefit being given to those guests who buy higher priced staterooms. This enables travel agents to sell up to gain higher commissions.Celebrity Passages has no expiration date, is non-refundable, and can be applied to any Celebrity cruise fare. Guests may purchase up to three Celebrity Passages while onboard.
Celebrity is also introducing Celebrity Encore, a new system of notifying travel agents when one of their customers receives a future cruise certificate. The line's website for travel agents, http://www.cruisingpower.com/, will now indicate any outstanding future cruise certificates issued. Located on the site's "Insight" page, this information will serve as a sales lead for agents to contact their clients and encourage them to cruise again. The display will include guests' names, ship, sail date and certificate amounts. For more information, call 800-437-3111 or visit http://www.celebritycruises.com/.
The Celebrity Special Travel Agent Training Academy is a package of education and training resources, tools, programs, and agent incentives. The program's first initiative is a series of half-day seminars with interactive, the opportunity to win prizes, the chance to network with other travel agents, and a surprise indulgence in the Celebrity Treatment brand experience.
Participants can earn 10 Cruise Line Industry Association credits by attending the seminar.Fifteen seminars are scheduled through August for Dallas; Providence, R.I.; Virginia Beach, Va.; Vancouver, British Columbia; Walnut Creek, California; Newark, N.J.; Bethesda, Md.; Toronto; Cleveland; Denver; St. Louis; Phoenix; King of Prussia, Pa.; Tampa, Fla.; and Fort Lauderdale. Travel agents interested in participating should visit http://www.cruisingpower.com/ for more information, or contact their Celebrity Cruises sales manager.
The Celebrity Special Agent Academy is the next phase in the Celebrity Special Agent education and sales incentive program that kicked off in February. Through the promotion's online education component, participating travel agents can earn up to six CLIA credits. Additionally, each Celebrity Alaska, Europe or Expeditions booking made during the contest period becomes an entry toward winning one of several prizes being offered. All travel agents are eligible to participate. More details are available online at www.cruisingpower.com/booktowin.
Celebrity also has launched a new onboard booking program called Celebrity Passages. It is open to U.S. citizens and enables guests who wish to book a future cruise the option to prepay a small portion ($100 per person) without choosing an actual ship and sail date, and gain an onboard credit benefit on their future cruise. Travel partners will be notified when one of their customers purchases a Celebrity Passage via fax confirmation, and a postcard completed by the guest noting their top three future cruise preferences. Travel agents can then follow up with their customers to encourage them to book the new reservation and apply the Celebrity Passages account value. The onboard credit benefit is based on the purchase price of the new cruise, and varies between $50 and $300, with the greatest benefit being given to those guests who buy higher priced staterooms. This enables travel agents to sell up to gain higher commissions.Celebrity Passages has no expiration date, is non-refundable, and can be applied to any Celebrity cruise fare. Guests may purchase up to three Celebrity Passages while onboard.
Celebrity is also introducing Celebrity Encore, a new system of notifying travel agents when one of their customers receives a future cruise certificate. The line's website for travel agents, http://www.cruisingpower.com/, will now indicate any outstanding future cruise certificates issued. Located on the site's "Insight" page, this information will serve as a sales lead for agents to contact their clients and encourage them to cruise again. The display will include guests' names, ship, sail date and certificate amounts. For more information, call 800-437-3111 or visit http://www.celebritycruises.com/.
Tuesday
Join us for a Webinar on April 23
Please join for an overview of how to sell Regent Seven Seas Cruises. Kate Otto, Director of Sales will present a Product Review, Sales Tools, Customer Insights and Opportunities.
Title: Regent Seven Seas Cruises Overview Date: Monday, April 23, 2007
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM EDT
Space is limited. Reserve your Webinar seat now, at:https://www.gotomeeting.com/register/113836317
System RequirementsPC-based attendeesRequired: Windows® 2000, XP Home, XP Pro, 2003 ServerMacintosh®-based attendeesRequired: Mac OS® X 10.3.9 (Panther®) or newer
Title: Regent Seven Seas Cruises Overview Date: Monday, April 23, 2007
Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 AM EDT
Space is limited. Reserve your Webinar seat now, at:https://www.gotomeeting.com/register/113836317
System RequirementsPC-based attendeesRequired: Windows® 2000, XP Home, XP Pro, 2003 ServerMacintosh®-based attendeesRequired: Mac OS® X 10.3.9 (Panther®) or newer
Sell Private Crewed Yacht Charter Sailing's
Home based travel agents can Earn Average Commissions of over $1000 per sale.
Fully Crewed Private Yachts, Private Gourmet Chef, Water Sports on Board includes snorkeling, sunning, fishing, sailing, kayaking, waterskiing, wakeboarding, scuba diving, and more.
Ever Changing View, 5 Star Accommodations. Visit different beaches, islands, villages and towns daily. Perfect Vacation for Families, Couples, Friends, Honeymoons, & Corporate.
All Inclusive Pricing starts as low as $190 per person, per day including all meals, bar, water sports and accommodations. Locations include the Caribbean, Mediterranean, New England, Bahamas, Pacific NW, Alaska, Mexico, Down Under, and more. No Experience Necessary
Agent Commission of 10% on Most Yachts (some mega-yachts pay 7.5%, some pay 12.5%) We handle matching of guests with yachts, contracts, post booking details such as their personal preferences for on board food and entertainment.
Agent Commissions range from $500-$35,000 per charter. High Repeat Rate with Full Commission to you for years to come. We protect your client relationship.
Visit www.vitalvacations.com
Matthew O'Hayer
Vital VacationsYacht Charters Worldwide
110 E. Broward Blvd, Suite 1700Ft Lauderdale, FL 33301
866-866-1440 Toll Free USA
954-302-3540 International
480-275-3737 Fax
info@vitalvacations.com
Fully Crewed Private Yachts, Private Gourmet Chef, Water Sports on Board includes snorkeling, sunning, fishing, sailing, kayaking, waterskiing, wakeboarding, scuba diving, and more.
Ever Changing View, 5 Star Accommodations. Visit different beaches, islands, villages and towns daily. Perfect Vacation for Families, Couples, Friends, Honeymoons, & Corporate.
All Inclusive Pricing starts as low as $190 per person, per day including all meals, bar, water sports and accommodations. Locations include the Caribbean, Mediterranean, New England, Bahamas, Pacific NW, Alaska, Mexico, Down Under, and more. No Experience Necessary
Agent Commission of 10% on Most Yachts (some mega-yachts pay 7.5%, some pay 12.5%) We handle matching of guests with yachts, contracts, post booking details such as their personal preferences for on board food and entertainment.
Agent Commissions range from $500-$35,000 per charter. High Repeat Rate with Full Commission to you for years to come. We protect your client relationship.
Visit www.vitalvacations.com
Matthew O'Hayer
Vital VacationsYacht Charters Worldwide
110 E. Broward Blvd, Suite 1700Ft Lauderdale, FL 33301
866-866-1440 Toll Free USA
954-302-3540 International
480-275-3737 Fax
info@vitalvacations.com
Monday
Vacation Rentals 4 Agents Offers Online Training
Vacation Rentals 4 Agents, part of the RCI Global Vacation Network, is now offering online training to assist agents in enhancing their knowledge about selling vacation rentals.
The online education program offered by Vacation Rentals 4 Agents is now available in The Travel Institute E-Learning Center. And as a bonus, travel agents who complete the online program can get a $50 commission reward after their first booking at Vacation Rentals 4 Agents.
"We elected to join forces with The Travel Institute in order to educate agents on our vast range of vacation rental offerings, give details about the benefits of staying in vacation rental accommodations, and help agents understand the immense potential available to boost earnings via our attractive commission and incentive program," said John Peters, CTIE, vice president of travel trade and business development, open market rental for RCI Global Vacation Network.
The company offers commissions from 12 to 20 percent. The course teaches agents: the characteristics and benefits of a vacation rental; why booking vacation rentals make sense; who the vacation rental customer is; and resources available to help book vacation rentals for customers. For more information, call 866-844-2017 or visit www.VacationRentals4Agents.com.
The online education program offered by Vacation Rentals 4 Agents is now available in The Travel Institute E-Learning Center. And as a bonus, travel agents who complete the online program can get a $50 commission reward after their first booking at Vacation Rentals 4 Agents.
"We elected to join forces with The Travel Institute in order to educate agents on our vast range of vacation rental offerings, give details about the benefits of staying in vacation rental accommodations, and help agents understand the immense potential available to boost earnings via our attractive commission and incentive program," said John Peters, CTIE, vice president of travel trade and business development, open market rental for RCI Global Vacation Network.
The company offers commissions from 12 to 20 percent. The course teaches agents: the characteristics and benefits of a vacation rental; why booking vacation rentals make sense; who the vacation rental customer is; and resources available to help book vacation rentals for customers. For more information, call 866-844-2017 or visit www.VacationRentals4Agents.com.
FREE Key Tours WebEx Training Session.
How to Sell Key Tours
Date: Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Time: 12:00 pm, Eastern Daylight Time (GMT -04:00, New York )
Session Number: 687 714 841
Registration password: This session does not require a registration password.
To attend this training session, you must first register for it. Please click the following link to see more information about and register for this session.
https://keytours.webex.com/keytours/k2/j.php?ED=90054832&UID=46038652
Once you have registered for the session, you will receive an email message confirming your registration. This message will provide the information that you need to join the session. Be sure to print out this message as well should you have any questions about registration. Hope to see you online!To contact Key Tours, call 1-703-591-3550
Date: Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Time: 12:00 pm, Eastern Daylight Time (GMT -04:00, New York )
Session Number: 687 714 841
Registration password: This session does not require a registration password.
To attend this training session, you must first register for it. Please click the following link to see more information about and register for this session.
https://keytours.webex.com/keytours/k2/j.php?ED=90054832&UID=46038652
Once you have registered for the session, you will receive an email message confirming your registration. This message will provide the information that you need to join the session. Be sure to print out this message as well should you have any questions about registration. Hope to see you online!To contact Key Tours, call 1-703-591-3550
FREE FAM Vacation for Agents at Rentals 4 Agents
Beyond the lucrative commission program offered by Vacation Rentals 4 Agents, travel agents can also earn travel rewards for bookings made with Vacation Rentals 4 Agents.
How it works: When a registered agent reserves five (5) vacation stays at any property offered by Vacation Rentals 4 Agents, the company rewards the agent with a complimentary 7-night Resort Vacation Certificate, valued at up to $1,500*. The booking window for this special agent promo is: 4/1/07 to 6/15/07. Clients must complete travel by 9/30/07.
Send your clients on their dream vacation...and we will send you on yours: FREE ! It's that simple. Vacation Rentals 4 Agents will even track the bookings for you!
For complete details, visit www.VacationRentals4Agents.com or contact a Vacation Guide at 1-866-844-2017
How it works: When a registered agent reserves five (5) vacation stays at any property offered by Vacation Rentals 4 Agents, the company rewards the agent with a complimentary 7-night Resort Vacation Certificate, valued at up to $1,500*. The booking window for this special agent promo is: 4/1/07 to 6/15/07. Clients must complete travel by 9/30/07.
Send your clients on their dream vacation...and we will send you on yours: FREE ! It's that simple. Vacation Rentals 4 Agents will even track the bookings for you!
For complete details, visit www.VacationRentals4Agents.com or contact a Vacation Guide at 1-866-844-2017
Saturday
Become a Royal Caribbean Expert
Beginning April 1st, Vacation.com members have the opportunity to expand your knowledge and become a Royal Caribbean Brand Expert in addition to being entered for a chance to win fabulous prizes. The University of WOW online certification program is complimentary to all travel partners and is available on www.CruisingPower.com
Prizes include everything from Liberty of the Seas pre-inaugural staterooms to witnessing history in the making at the keel-laying ceremony for what will soon be the largest, most innovative ship in the world, Genesis!
Click here for more details about theRoyal Caribbean University
Prizes include everything from Liberty of the Seas pre-inaugural staterooms to witnessing history in the making at the keel-laying ceremony for what will soon be the largest, most innovative ship in the world, Genesis!
Click here for more details about theRoyal Caribbean University
Friday
Royal Caribbean Offers Explorer Weddings
Royal Caribbean International is unveiling Explorer Weddings, a program that combines a cruise with an exotic destination or themed wedding.
Explorer Weddings allow couples to exchange vows in distinctive settings, such as next to the onboard surf simulator, on top of an Alaskan glacier, in a hot-air balloon or in a medieval castle. As an extension of Royal Caribbean's Royal Romance program, Explorer Weddings was created in partnership with The Wedding Experience.
It will debut with the launch of Liberty of the Seas, which will sail its maiden voyage on May 19. The Liberty shares the title of world's largest cruise ship with sister ship Freedom of the Seas.
"More than 15 percent of Americans are choosing a destination wedding instead of a traditional land-based ceremony," said Steve Shaiken, vice president-onboard revenue operations. Explorer Wedding coordinators work closely with the bride and groom to customize their wedding or vow renewal, including creating personalized vows, if needed. They arrange the transportation and priority check-in for the couple and their guests, and even meet the couple at the pier and escort them to their stateroom to address any last-minute questions.Couples can choose to marry at onboard locations such as the ice-skating rink, rock-climbing wall or ship's golf course, or shoreside settings, including the top of a volcano, in a rainforest, or in a vineyard, all of which would be decorated thematically for a private ceremony.
As part of the basic Explorer Weddings package, the bride and groom will receive a bouquet, a boutonniere with matching bloom, traditional or customized music accompaniment, champagne and wedding cake, and a keepsake Explorer Weddings marriage certificate. The ceremony is performed by a non-denominational officiant, and a professional photographer will be on hand. Additional special requests can be accommodated.
Call Royal Romance Wedding Consultants at 888-933-7225 or email royalromance@theweddingexperience.com. For more information on Royal Caribbean, call 800-327-2056 or visit www.cruisingpower.com.
Explorer Weddings allow couples to exchange vows in distinctive settings, such as next to the onboard surf simulator, on top of an Alaskan glacier, in a hot-air balloon or in a medieval castle. As an extension of Royal Caribbean's Royal Romance program, Explorer Weddings was created in partnership with The Wedding Experience.
It will debut with the launch of Liberty of the Seas, which will sail its maiden voyage on May 19. The Liberty shares the title of world's largest cruise ship with sister ship Freedom of the Seas.
"More than 15 percent of Americans are choosing a destination wedding instead of a traditional land-based ceremony," said Steve Shaiken, vice president-onboard revenue operations. Explorer Wedding coordinators work closely with the bride and groom to customize their wedding or vow renewal, including creating personalized vows, if needed. They arrange the transportation and priority check-in for the couple and their guests, and even meet the couple at the pier and escort them to their stateroom to address any last-minute questions.Couples can choose to marry at onboard locations such as the ice-skating rink, rock-climbing wall or ship's golf course, or shoreside settings, including the top of a volcano, in a rainforest, or in a vineyard, all of which would be decorated thematically for a private ceremony.
As part of the basic Explorer Weddings package, the bride and groom will receive a bouquet, a boutonniere with matching bloom, traditional or customized music accompaniment, champagne and wedding cake, and a keepsake Explorer Weddings marriage certificate. The ceremony is performed by a non-denominational officiant, and a professional photographer will be on hand. Additional special requests can be accommodated.
Call Royal Romance Wedding Consultants at 888-933-7225 or email royalromance@theweddingexperience.com. For more information on Royal Caribbean, call 800-327-2056 or visit www.cruisingpower.com.
FREE Training Webinar on Selling African Travel
Please join us to learn how to work with African Travel for your Client’s Tailor-made Safari to Africa…Roll up your sleeves to discover how to plan a perfect African journey for your best customers by leveraging the experience of African Travel who have only sold only one destination – Africa – for over 31 years!
Learn the basics plus…the top 10 questions to ask to qualify your clientele. Become skilled at preparing for a 3-way conference call between you, your client and African Travel with your ‘Perfect Safari Planner; maps, temperature charts and more…
Title: African Travel, Inc. -
Safari 101 Training
Date: Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM EDT
Space is limited.
Reserve your Webinar seat now at:http://recp.rm05.net/ctt?kn=2&m=541482&r=MzkzMzQ0OTY2MwS2&b=0&j=ODI4NzQ2NDYS1&mt=1
System RequirementsPC-based attendeesRequired: Windows® 2000, XP Home, XP Pro, 2003 ServerMacintosh®-based attendeesRequired: Mac OS® X 10.3.9 (Panther®) or newer
Learn the basics plus…the top 10 questions to ask to qualify your clientele. Become skilled at preparing for a 3-way conference call between you, your client and African Travel with your ‘Perfect Safari Planner; maps, temperature charts and more…
Title: African Travel, Inc. -
Safari 101 Training
Date: Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM EDT
Space is limited.
Reserve your Webinar seat now at:http://recp.rm05.net/ctt?kn=2&m=541482&r=MzkzMzQ0OTY2MwS2&b=0&j=ODI4NzQ2NDYS1&mt=1
System RequirementsPC-based attendeesRequired: Windows® 2000, XP Home, XP Pro, 2003 ServerMacintosh®-based attendeesRequired: Mac OS® X 10.3.9 (Panther®) or newer
Thursday
Desire Resorts Offering Travel Agent Rates
Desire Resorts, the clothing optional retreats for couples only in, unveiled 2007 travel agent rates. Now through Dec. 20, 2007, agents can stay at the new Desire Resort & Spa Los Cabos for $80 per person, per night. Rate is applicable only for superior room bookings.
The original Desire Resort & Spa, located on the Riviera Maya, has special agent rates of $110 now through April 30, 2007 for a garden view room or $128 for an ocean view room. From May 1 to Dec. 25, 2007, rates are $93 per night for a garden view room and $108 for an ocean view room. Rates are per person, per night based on double occupancy. Rates include all meals, unlimited, name-brand imported and domestic liquors and tropical cocktails, room service 24/7, resort activities and taxes and tips.
All reservations must be clearly identified as "Travel Agent Special" and at least one person in the party must be a registered Travel Agent and present an IATA number upon check in. All reservations must be sent directly to the hotel at reservcabos@desireresorts.com. For more information, call 888-201-7551 or visit www.desireresorts.com.
The original Desire Resort & Spa, located on the Riviera Maya, has special agent rates of $110 now through April 30, 2007 for a garden view room or $128 for an ocean view room. From May 1 to Dec. 25, 2007, rates are $93 per night for a garden view room and $108 for an ocean view room. Rates are per person, per night based on double occupancy. Rates include all meals, unlimited, name-brand imported and domestic liquors and tropical cocktails, room service 24/7, resort activities and taxes and tips.
All reservations must be clearly identified as "Travel Agent Special" and at least one person in the party must be a registered Travel Agent and present an IATA number upon check in. All reservations must be sent directly to the hotel at reservcabos@desireresorts.com. For more information, call 888-201-7551 or visit www.desireresorts.com.
Princess introducing "Mother/Daughter Memories" Package
Princess Cruises is introducing a new "Mother/Daughter Memories" on the Emerald Princess starting May 5. The package is designed to help a mother and daughter celebrate their time together, and offers activities such as shopping, spa treatments and wine tastings.
Princess' two newest cruise ships, Emerald Princess and Royal Princess, will be christened together over Mother's Day weekend. The mother-daughter package can be enjoyed any time of year, including on Mother's Day, and features two sterling silver charm bracelets with a sterling sand dollar charm with an emerald accent, Lotus Spa manicure and pedicure, half-day passes to The Sanctuary adults-only retreat, reserved seats for a wine tasting event and 8-by-10 photos of their choice.
The package cost is $495 and can be reserved onboard by all mother and daughters 21 years of age and older. Princess will reunite a pair of television's favorite mothers and daughters to christen the Emerald Princess and Royal Princess over Mother's Day weekend in Santorini, Greece. Television icons Florence Henderson, best known as Carol Brady on "The Brady Bunch," and Marion Ross, aka Marion Cunningham of "Happy Days" fame will christen the larger Emerald Princess, while their TV daughters, Susan Olsen (Cindy Brady) and Erin Moran (Joanie Cunningham) will christen the more intimate Royal Princess. More information about the two new ships and their launch events can be found at www.princess.com/mothersdayescape. For more information, call 800-PRINCESS or visit http://www.princess.com/.
Princess' two newest cruise ships, Emerald Princess and Royal Princess, will be christened together over Mother's Day weekend. The mother-daughter package can be enjoyed any time of year, including on Mother's Day, and features two sterling silver charm bracelets with a sterling sand dollar charm with an emerald accent, Lotus Spa manicure and pedicure, half-day passes to The Sanctuary adults-only retreat, reserved seats for a wine tasting event and 8-by-10 photos of their choice.
The package cost is $495 and can be reserved onboard by all mother and daughters 21 years of age and older. Princess will reunite a pair of television's favorite mothers and daughters to christen the Emerald Princess and Royal Princess over Mother's Day weekend in Santorini, Greece. Television icons Florence Henderson, best known as Carol Brady on "The Brady Bunch," and Marion Ross, aka Marion Cunningham of "Happy Days" fame will christen the larger Emerald Princess, while their TV daughters, Susan Olsen (Cindy Brady) and Erin Moran (Joanie Cunningham) will christen the more intimate Royal Princess. More information about the two new ships and their launch events can be found at www.princess.com/mothersdayescape. For more information, call 800-PRINCESS or visit http://www.princess.com/.
FREE Marketing Kit for Princess Academy Graduates
Princess Cruises said graduates of the Princess Academy online training program graduates will soon have access to an online marketing kit filled with tools to help the line's Commodores promote themselves as Certified Experts.
Home Based Travel Agents who have reached the top Commodore level will be able to access new tools -- including a customizable postcard and letterhead, professional email tag and a press release template-that helps them promote themselves. The new kit will be available to Commodore-level agents by the end of this month.
The new toolkit will be accessible only to Princess Academy Commodores through an exclusive link on the line's OneSource agent website. The new marketing kit will include a customizable announcement postcard, customizable email tag, customizable letterhead, Certified Expert logo, press release template, computer desktop wallpaper and a Certified Expert screensaver.
To become a Commodore, agents must fulfill 25 required and elective classes, representing approximately 15 hours of total course work. To sign up for Princess Academy, agents can call 800-544-9032 or visit www.onesourcecruises.com or www.princess.com/onesource
Home Based Travel Agents who have reached the top Commodore level will be able to access new tools -- including a customizable postcard and letterhead, professional email tag and a press release template-that helps them promote themselves. The new kit will be available to Commodore-level agents by the end of this month.
The new toolkit will be accessible only to Princess Academy Commodores through an exclusive link on the line's OneSource agent website. The new marketing kit will include a customizable announcement postcard, customizable email tag, customizable letterhead, Certified Expert logo, press release template, computer desktop wallpaper and a Certified Expert screensaver.
To become a Commodore, agents must fulfill 25 required and elective classes, representing approximately 15 hours of total course work. To sign up for Princess Academy, agents can call 800-544-9032 or visit www.onesourcecruises.com or www.princess.com/onesource
Wednesday
Visit Florida Offers New Reunion Planner
Visit Florida, the state's official source for travel planning, has introduced the Florida Reunions & Gatherings Guide. This step-by-step "how to" guidebook begins with a planning timetable that details activities for everything from intimate gatherings to large-scale events.
The Florida Reunions & Gatherings Guide also offers tips for selecting a scenic location, customizing special keepsakes and coordinating imaginative themes that add a unique touch to any celebration. By providing a list of travel resources, a chart of mileage between Florida cities and sample planning spreadsheets, the comprehensive guidebook is designed to offer some of the more than 8 million people who annually attend family reunions in the United States opportunities to discover Sunshine State getaways. For more information, call 888-735-2872 or visit www.visitflorida.com.
The Florida Reunions & Gatherings Guide also offers tips for selecting a scenic location, customizing special keepsakes and coordinating imaginative themes that add a unique touch to any celebration. By providing a list of travel resources, a chart of mileage between Florida cities and sample planning spreadsheets, the comprehensive guidebook is designed to offer some of the more than 8 million people who annually attend family reunions in the United States opportunities to discover Sunshine State getaways. For more information, call 888-735-2872 or visit www.visitflorida.com.
Sandals Offers New Agent Rewards Programs
Sandals announced the introduction of two new reward programs for home based travel agents. Through one of the two offers, one deserving travel agent will have the chance to travel in the private jet of Sandals CEO Butch Stewart. Each time a travel agent books a room or suite at any Sandals Resort or Beaches Resort, he or she will be entered into a drawing for a chance to win a week-long Caribbean getaway with private jet service.
One lucky winner will be whisked away on Butch Stewart's private Bombardier Challenger 300 jet, featuring an onboard personal butler, to experience a seven-night stay in a suite with exclusive butler service at any Sandals Resort or Beaches Resort of their choice. The more a travel agent books, the more chances he or she has to become the Grand Prize winner. Plus, nearly 40 additional agents will also have a chance to win other suite prizes, including: one 50-inch plasma flat screen television; one four-poster mahogany bed with nightstand; three king-size mattresses and box springs; and four sets of linens including duvet covers, pillow cases, shams and sheets. Additional giveaways include: Preston Bailey flowers delivered to winning agents' doors every month; a case of Sandals Resorts private-label Beringer wines; a set of his and her plush spa robes and a basket of Sandals Resorts' exclusive Red Lane spa products.
The other new agent reward program is the new "It's in the Bag" promotion. Agents who book a minimum of seven Sandals Resorts or Beaches Resorts vacations from now until Sept. 30, 2007 with a three-night minimum stay in a second-category room or higher for travel now until Dec. 21, 2007, can receive a designer bag from Sandals and Beaches Resorts. This rewards program offers agents the following handbag when they book at least seven Sandals or Beaches vacations: seven bookings -- Coach Carly Large Signature Bag; nine bookings -- Prada Nylon Pocket Tote; 11 bookings -- Gucci Abbey Large Hobo; and 14 bookings -- Louis Vuitton Monogram Alma.
For both promotions, visit www.sandals.com/tas/forms.cfm and download the You Go Girl/It's In The Bag Purse promotion form. Complete the attached coupon and submit along with each booking via mail to Unique Vacations, Inc., 4950 S.W. 72nd Ave., Miami, Fla. 33155, attn: Sales Dept. or fax to 305-663-4355 or register bookings online at www.sandals.com/tas.
One lucky winner will be whisked away on Butch Stewart's private Bombardier Challenger 300 jet, featuring an onboard personal butler, to experience a seven-night stay in a suite with exclusive butler service at any Sandals Resort or Beaches Resort of their choice. The more a travel agent books, the more chances he or she has to become the Grand Prize winner. Plus, nearly 40 additional agents will also have a chance to win other suite prizes, including: one 50-inch plasma flat screen television; one four-poster mahogany bed with nightstand; three king-size mattresses and box springs; and four sets of linens including duvet covers, pillow cases, shams and sheets. Additional giveaways include: Preston Bailey flowers delivered to winning agents' doors every month; a case of Sandals Resorts private-label Beringer wines; a set of his and her plush spa robes and a basket of Sandals Resorts' exclusive Red Lane spa products.
The other new agent reward program is the new "It's in the Bag" promotion. Agents who book a minimum of seven Sandals Resorts or Beaches Resorts vacations from now until Sept. 30, 2007 with a three-night minimum stay in a second-category room or higher for travel now until Dec. 21, 2007, can receive a designer bag from Sandals and Beaches Resorts. This rewards program offers agents the following handbag when they book at least seven Sandals or Beaches vacations: seven bookings -- Coach Carly Large Signature Bag; nine bookings -- Prada Nylon Pocket Tote; 11 bookings -- Gucci Abbey Large Hobo; and 14 bookings -- Louis Vuitton Monogram Alma.
For both promotions, visit www.sandals.com/tas/forms.cfm and download the You Go Girl/It's In The Bag Purse promotion form. Complete the attached coupon and submit along with each booking via mail to Unique Vacations, Inc., 4950 S.W. 72nd Ave., Miami, Fla. 33155, attn: Sales Dept. or fax to 305-663-4355 or register bookings online at www.sandals.com/tas.
Royal Caribbean Launches Home Based Travel Agent Training
Royal Caribbean International has launched the University of WOW, an online training program where home based travel agents can learn about itineraries, services and tools. The University of WOW is a virtual classroom where travel agents can also earn Royal Caribbean rewards and five credits toward Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) certification.
Home Based Travel Agents can register and begin earning rewards at www.CruisingPower.com. As enrolled agents progress through the program, they will earn WOW points and achieve certificates of Cruise Apprentices, Cruise Specialists and Cruise Experts. Completing each level will earn agents incremental incentives such as discounted and free cruises. Agents who complete the entire program will be listed as a Royal Caribbean Cruise Expert on the line's online Travel Agency Locator.
Furthermore, travel agents can begin earning Royal Caribbean rewards immediately through the University of WOW. Through April 15, enrolled agents with the top 50 WOW Points score will be entered into a drawing to win a stateroom aboard a two-night pre-inaugural sailing in May aboard Liberty of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's newest ship that will share the title of world's largest.
The top 200 WOW Points scorers through July 31 will be entered into a drawing to select one winner who will participate in September's float-out of Independence of the Seas in Turku, Finland. Finally, the top 400 top scorers by Aug. 31 will be entered into a drawing to select one winner who will participate in the year-end, keel-laying of Genesis, Royal Caribbean's next class of ships. For more information, call 800-327-2056 or visit www.cruisingpower.com.
Home Based Travel Agents can register and begin earning rewards at www.CruisingPower.com. As enrolled agents progress through the program, they will earn WOW points and achieve certificates of Cruise Apprentices, Cruise Specialists and Cruise Experts. Completing each level will earn agents incremental incentives such as discounted and free cruises. Agents who complete the entire program will be listed as a Royal Caribbean Cruise Expert on the line's online Travel Agency Locator.
Furthermore, travel agents can begin earning Royal Caribbean rewards immediately through the University of WOW. Through April 15, enrolled agents with the top 50 WOW Points score will be entered into a drawing to win a stateroom aboard a two-night pre-inaugural sailing in May aboard Liberty of the Seas, Royal Caribbean's newest ship that will share the title of world's largest.
The top 200 WOW Points scorers through July 31 will be entered into a drawing to select one winner who will participate in September's float-out of Independence of the Seas in Turku, Finland. Finally, the top 400 top scorers by Aug. 31 will be entered into a drawing to select one winner who will participate in the year-end, keel-laying of Genesis, Royal Caribbean's next class of ships. For more information, call 800-327-2056 or visit www.cruisingpower.com.
Monday
CLIA's World's Largest Cruise Night Set for Oct. 17
CLIA announced that its third annual World's Largest Cruise Night (WLCN), the largest one-day travel agency initiative of its kind, will be held on Wednesday, Oct. 17. The event serves as the centerpiece for October's National Cruise Vacation Month, which each year focuses consumer attention on the pleasures of cruising.
On Oct. 17, CLIA-member travel agencies across North America will promote cruising in one 24-hour period. The wide-ranging portfolio of one-day events will include luncheons, cocktail parties, dinners, full-scale expos, and many other activities."CLIA predicts that the third annual WLCN will break even more records than last year's event," said Terry Dale, president and CEO of CLIA, the primary marketing association for the North American cruise industry and 16,500 North American member travel agencies. "
Each year WLCN has picked up dramatic momentum, with the 2006 event doubling the sales of 2005."A CLIA agent survey revealed that last year's WLCN event generated 14,860 bookings, which translated to $18.5 million in cruise sales that yielded more than $2.4 million in travel agency commissions. "Agents who participated said they were very pleased with the results, both in terms of awareness and bookings," Dale said. "Over 700 agencies conducted an event on WLCN -- and 89 percent said they plan to participate in 2007." Agency registration for the 2007 WLCN will open on CLIA's website this summer. For more information, visit www.cruising.org.
On Oct. 17, CLIA-member travel agencies across North America will promote cruising in one 24-hour period. The wide-ranging portfolio of one-day events will include luncheons, cocktail parties, dinners, full-scale expos, and many other activities."CLIA predicts that the third annual WLCN will break even more records than last year's event," said Terry Dale, president and CEO of CLIA, the primary marketing association for the North American cruise industry and 16,500 North American member travel agencies. "
Each year WLCN has picked up dramatic momentum, with the 2006 event doubling the sales of 2005."A CLIA agent survey revealed that last year's WLCN event generated 14,860 bookings, which translated to $18.5 million in cruise sales that yielded more than $2.4 million in travel agency commissions. "Agents who participated said they were very pleased with the results, both in terms of awareness and bookings," Dale said. "Over 700 agencies conducted an event on WLCN -- and 89 percent said they plan to participate in 2007." Agency registration for the 2007 WLCN will open on CLIA's website this summer. For more information, visit www.cruising.org.
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