Learn How to Become A Travel Agent... Open your own Home Based Travel Agency
Thursday
save your clients up to $2,000 per couple on their next river cruise vacation?
Want to save your clients up to $2,000 per couple on their next river cruise vacation? Well...now you can! Now through June 8, 2007, your clients will save up to $2,000 per couple on select departures of our most popular cruisetours through Europe, Russia or China, including Grand European Tour, Switzerland to Belgium, Paris & the Heart of Normandy, Waterways of the Czars and China's Cultural Delights... among many others!Plus, select extension programs, including Paris, Amsterdam and Budapest are $100 off!For details download this PDF
Follow Up After The Sale
By: Phil & Doris Davidoff.
You just sold a cruise or a tour. The deposit has been paid and sent to the supplier. Final payment is due in three months and with that will come a nice commission. Your work is now finished -- right? WRONG!
Do not stop at this point. You could still lose the business. You could also still get more business with a little extra effort. Clients today may still shop after the sale is made.
Make sure that you stay in touch with your clients after deposits are paid. Help keep the excitement up. The stronger the relationship that is developed between agent and client, the more clients will believe you care about them as people, not just income. Contact with clients at this stage of a trip will also prevent their moving to another agency to save a few dollars.
Be sure that you ask clients making a deposit if they have any friends who might be interested in the same cruise or tour. Let them borrow a videotape of the cruise they will be enjoying or of the area they will be visiting. Send them a note with a tourist office brochure or news clipping about their forthcoming trip.
Do not forget clients after they return. Send personalized "Thank You" cards to cruise and tour clients. Ask them how they enjoyed their vacation. Don't forget to ask for referrals as well. Enclose three or four business cards.
Be sure new clients are added to your mailing and emailing lists. Send an ezine or a newsletter or other information to your regular clients at least monthly. As competition increases, it is easy to be forgotten unless you get your name in front of clients frequently.
Flatter your clients by remembering birthdays, anniversaries and other important dates. If you see an article or picture of a client or family member in the local paper, cut it out and send it to the clients. They will be impressed -- and they should think of you first when planning their next vacation.
You just sold a cruise or a tour. The deposit has been paid and sent to the supplier. Final payment is due in three months and with that will come a nice commission. Your work is now finished -- right? WRONG!
Do not stop at this point. You could still lose the business. You could also still get more business with a little extra effort. Clients today may still shop after the sale is made.
Make sure that you stay in touch with your clients after deposits are paid. Help keep the excitement up. The stronger the relationship that is developed between agent and client, the more clients will believe you care about them as people, not just income. Contact with clients at this stage of a trip will also prevent their moving to another agency to save a few dollars.
Be sure that you ask clients making a deposit if they have any friends who might be interested in the same cruise or tour. Let them borrow a videotape of the cruise they will be enjoying or of the area they will be visiting. Send them a note with a tourist office brochure or news clipping about their forthcoming trip.
Do not forget clients after they return. Send personalized "Thank You" cards to cruise and tour clients. Ask them how they enjoyed their vacation. Don't forget to ask for referrals as well. Enclose three or four business cards.
Be sure new clients are added to your mailing and emailing lists. Send an ezine or a newsletter or other information to your regular clients at least monthly. As competition increases, it is easy to be forgotten unless you get your name in front of clients frequently.
Flatter your clients by remembering birthdays, anniversaries and other important dates. If you see an article or picture of a client or family member in the local paper, cut it out and send it to the clients. They will be impressed -- and they should think of you first when planning their next vacation.
Wednesday
Enthusiasm Sells! by Mike Marchev
The famous sales pie chart is made up of three distinct slices. Attitude; Skills; and Knowledge ASK.
Of course it is important that you know your subject matter .. or at the very least, where to find the information. Of equal importance is the ability to understand the steps of making a sale in these competitive, what have you done for me lately times.
But without a shadow of doubt, the single most important slice of the pie involves what goes on in your head. Today, more than ever before, it is a persons attitude that gives them the key advantage in a competitive environment.
People migrate to those who regularly exhibit a positive attitude. And, more often than not, the byproduct of a healthy attitude comes in the form of enthusiasm. Enthusiasm is infectious.
The most skilled and knowledgeable salesperson in the world, when diagnosed by a prospect to be short changed in the personality department is going to wash out of the game early and without fanfare.
Whats more, enthusiasm sells! If you can not manage to get enthusiastic about the most wonderful industry imaginable (travel) then perhaps you need to begin thinking about an alternate career path. (Don’t allow this to happen. Get enthusiastic. Find a reason. Make a reason. Steal a reason. Just get juiced.
Of course it is important that you know your subject matter .. or at the very least, where to find the information. Of equal importance is the ability to understand the steps of making a sale in these competitive, what have you done for me lately times.
But without a shadow of doubt, the single most important slice of the pie involves what goes on in your head. Today, more than ever before, it is a persons attitude that gives them the key advantage in a competitive environment.
People migrate to those who regularly exhibit a positive attitude. And, more often than not, the byproduct of a healthy attitude comes in the form of enthusiasm. Enthusiasm is infectious.
The most skilled and knowledgeable salesperson in the world, when diagnosed by a prospect to be short changed in the personality department is going to wash out of the game early and without fanfare.
Whats more, enthusiasm sells! If you can not manage to get enthusiastic about the most wonderful industry imaginable (travel) then perhaps you need to begin thinking about an alternate career path. (Don’t allow this to happen. Get enthusiastic. Find a reason. Make a reason. Steal a reason. Just get juiced.
Carnival Cruise Line
Carnival is excited and proud to announce the launch of the fantastic new Carnival Splendor Spa website. Through the use of copy, images and Flash, the site provides users with an interactive look at all of the amazing facilities, treatments -- and even spa accommodations -- that this spectacular new facility will feature.
To coincide with the launch of this new website, we are announcing Carnival's Name Our Most Spectacular Spa Ever contest*. Users are able to submit up to five (5) potential names for the Carnival Splendor Spa. One lucky winner will receive a cruise for two aboard the Carnival Splendor -- including unlimited use of the spa facilities -- in one of the new Spa Suites. It's a fabulous prize worthy of such a truly phenomenal spa.
You can see the Carnival Splendor Spa website and all the information about the contest by visiting: http://www.carnival.com/cms/static_templates/promos/splendor/spa/default.aspx.
To coincide with the launch of this new website, we are announcing Carnival's Name Our Most Spectacular Spa Ever contest*. Users are able to submit up to five (5) potential names for the Carnival Splendor Spa. One lucky winner will receive a cruise for two aboard the Carnival Splendor -- including unlimited use of the spa facilities -- in one of the new Spa Suites. It's a fabulous prize worthy of such a truly phenomenal spa.
You can see the Carnival Splendor Spa website and all the information about the contest by visiting: http://www.carnival.com/cms/static_templates/promos/splendor/spa/default.aspx.
Sunday
Disney Sail Away, Brand-New Incredible Rates.
We've recently added brand-new low rates on some additional Mediterranean voyages this summer. Take advantage of these great rates today before it's too late.
And don't forget...Clients can experience the adventure of a lifetime on the 14-night westbound transatlantic voyage. Plus, if you book the 14-night westbound transatlantic sailing on Aug. 18, 2007*, you'll get $150 bonus commission!
*Not combinable with other offers
And don't forget...Clients can experience the adventure of a lifetime on the 14-night westbound transatlantic voyage. Plus, if you book the 14-night westbound transatlantic sailing on Aug. 18, 2007*, you'll get $150 bonus commission!
*Not combinable with other offers
Apply Today and Earn an Instant Credit
Your Clients can now apply online for a Disney Rewards® Visa® Card, be approved instantly and immediately use their new account to book a Disneyland® Resort vacation package with their Travel Agent. They'll receive zero percent APR financing for six months on the vacation package and a $40 credit that will appear on their billing statement. Plus, for being a Cardmember, they'll receive special Disney benefits and savings at the Disneyland Resort. More info
Plan the Perfect Disney Honeymoon Getaway
Disney's Honeymoon Registry makes planning the perfect honeymoon - and paying for it - easier than ever. Help your newlywed-to-be Clients sign up for their ideal Disney honeymoon getaway. More info
FREE 3 Day Disney Cruise for Home Based Travel Agents
For every three Disney Cruise Line-Land & Sea Packages each home based travel agent books this summer, the agent will be awarded one 3-night complimentary cruise on the Disney Wonder®. This exciting promotion started today and runs through Aug. 26, 2007. The best part is...there's no limit to how many cruises you can earn! Visit disneytravelagents.com for all the details. More info just Click
Monday
This blog will be closed for the next ten days.
Hi Agents,
This blog will be closed for the next ten days. My wife and I are celebrating our 40 th wedding anniversary by going on a 10 day Royal Caribbean Mediterranean cruise. I will be back at work the day after memorial day.
Paul
This blog will be closed for the next ten days. My wife and I are celebrating our 40 th wedding anniversary by going on a 10 day Royal Caribbean Mediterranean cruise. I will be back at work the day after memorial day.
Paul
Saturday
New Web Site for Custom-Designed ‘Fun Ship’-Themed Shirts
Carnival has created a special Web site allowing consumers to create custom-designed shirts to wear during or after their cruise. The site, located at www.carnivalfuntees.com, offers three shirt styles – T-shirt, polo shirt or tank top which can be imprinted with images and information from templates for eight affinity groups: family reunion, friends and family, girlfriend getaways, anniversary, birthday, wedding, honeymoon, and corporate.
Mind/Body Cruise Aboard Carnival Conquest
Carnival and Shape and Men’s Fitness magazines have teamed up for the fourth annual "Mind/Body Cruise" aboard the 2,974-passenger Carnival Conquest, operating round-trip from Galveston, Texas, Dec. 2- 9, 2007. The seven-day cruise will call at Montego Bay, Grand Cayman and Cozumel and a variety of fitness and wellness seminars, cooking demonstrations and nutritional workshops hosted by renowned personal trainers, and health and nutrition experts.
Fleetwide Cell Phone Service, Wi-Fi Internet Access
Through an exclusive agreement between Carnival and Wireless Maritime Services, guests sailing aboard all 22 “Fun Ships” can now use their personal cell phones and other communication devices at sea. Carnival has also expanded wireless Internet access to all public rooms fleetwide with the installation of strategically located Wi-Fi “hot spots” throughout the vessels’ lounges, pool areas, open decks, dining venues and suites.
$250 Million “Evolutions of Fun” Product Enhancement Strategy
Carnival’s eight Fantasy-class ships will undergo a dramatic transformation with children’s water parks, a new design style and features for pool areas, and the creation of the “Serenity” adults-only deck area, all part of the line’s $250 million “Evolutions of Fun” product enhancement initiative. Other features, many of which are already in place, include nine-hole mini golf courses, atrium lobby bars, and expansive new children’s play rooms. The “Evolutions of Fun” upgrades are expected to be completed by 2009.
First-Ever Northern Europe Cruises Aboard Carnival Splendor
For its inaugural 2008 season, the new 3,006-passenger Carnival Splendor will operate an exciting schedule that will include the line’s first Northern Europe cruise program, as well as Carnival’s popular Grand Mediterranean and Mediterranean & Greek Isles voyages. The Northern Europe cruises will operate July 13 – Aug. 30, 2008, round-trip from London (Dover), visiting Copenhagen; Warnemunde (Germany); Helsinki; St. Petersburg; Tallin (Estonia); and Amsterdam.
Friday
Atlantis Events Unveils New Gay Cruises for 2008
Atlantis Events, Inc., which specializes in gay and lesbian cruises and resort vacations, has unveiled four new all-gay cruises on three of the four top-rated large ships as well as on the newest and largest ship in the world, Royal Caribbean International's Liberty of the Seas.
Atlantis has launched a new website designed to offer expanded information, easier navigation and greater interactivity. Atlantis charters entire cruise ships and all-inclusive resorts for the exclusive use of its gay and lesbian guests.
Here are the details on the company's four new 2008 cruises:
The Largest Gay Cruise in History aboard Royal Caribbean's Liberty of the Seas departs Miami on Jan., 19, visiting Turks and Caicos, St. Thomas and the private island of Labadee, before returning to Miami on Jan. 26, with fares starting at $1,099;
The Rio Carnival Cruise aboard Celebrity's Infinity, departing Rio de Janeiro Feb. 3, 2008 (after clients attend Carnival's finale) and calling at Buzios, Parati and Florianopolis, Brazil, and Punta del Este and Montevideo, Uruguay, before arriving in Buenos Aires on Feb. 15, with fares starting at $1,799;
The roundtrip Celebrity Caribbean Cruise aboard the Celebrity Millennium, departing Ft. Lauderdale on March 2, 2008, and visiting Key West, Turks & Caicos, the Dominican Republic and Labadee, with fares starting at 899;
The Copenhagen-to-Stockholm Cruise on the Celebrity Constellation, which departs Copenhagen, Denmark, and calls at Warnemunde, Germany; Tallinn, Estonia; St. Petersburg; Russia; and Helsinki, Finland, before concluding in Stockholm, Sweden, with fares starting at $1,599.
Cruises goe on sale to the public on May 31, 2007. All fares are per person, double, and do not include airfare, port fees or gratuities. Atlantis' newly revamped website. offers guests a more complete glimpse of the Atlantis experience through photography and video, as well as more detailed itinerary and destination information and a more interactive peek into the company's ships and resorts. Call 800-628-5268 or visit www.atlantisevents.com.
Atlantis has launched a new website designed to offer expanded information, easier navigation and greater interactivity. Atlantis charters entire cruise ships and all-inclusive resorts for the exclusive use of its gay and lesbian guests.
Here are the details on the company's four new 2008 cruises:
The Largest Gay Cruise in History aboard Royal Caribbean's Liberty of the Seas departs Miami on Jan., 19, visiting Turks and Caicos, St. Thomas and the private island of Labadee, before returning to Miami on Jan. 26, with fares starting at $1,099;
The Rio Carnival Cruise aboard Celebrity's Infinity, departing Rio de Janeiro Feb. 3, 2008 (after clients attend Carnival's finale) and calling at Buzios, Parati and Florianopolis, Brazil, and Punta del Este and Montevideo, Uruguay, before arriving in Buenos Aires on Feb. 15, with fares starting at $1,799;
The roundtrip Celebrity Caribbean Cruise aboard the Celebrity Millennium, departing Ft. Lauderdale on March 2, 2008, and visiting Key West, Turks & Caicos, the Dominican Republic and Labadee, with fares starting at 899;
The Copenhagen-to-Stockholm Cruise on the Celebrity Constellation, which departs Copenhagen, Denmark, and calls at Warnemunde, Germany; Tallinn, Estonia; St. Petersburg; Russia; and Helsinki, Finland, before concluding in Stockholm, Sweden, with fares starting at $1,599.
Cruises goe on sale to the public on May 31, 2007. All fares are per person, double, and do not include airfare, port fees or gratuities. Atlantis' newly revamped website. offers guests a more complete glimpse of the Atlantis experience through photography and video, as well as more detailed itinerary and destination information and a more interactive peek into the company's ships and resorts. Call 800-628-5268 or visit www.atlantisevents.com.
Thursday
Cartan Tours Publishes Beijing Olympics Brochure
Cartan Tours unveiled its Beijing Summer Games brochure. The Summer Games will be held Aug. 8 to Aug. 24, 2008 in Beijing, China. Cartan Tours has specialized in providing travel programs to the Summer and Winter Games since 1984 when the Games were in Los Angeles.
The 32-page Summer Games 2008 Travel Program Brochure features a variety of programs that include three-star, four-star and five-star hotels and a program offering University Housing in Beijing.
For Americans, China is like a different world. With about the same amount of land, but over 3 times the population, it's also a very busy country full of history, culture and new experiences.China is forever linked to its ancient civilization, friendly people, and many of the world’s most revered treasures, such as The Great Wall, Terra-Cotta Warriors & Horses and the Yangtze River. Today, one can also find spectacular architecture and towering skylines in Shanghai and Beijing (site of the 2008 Summer Olympics), a wealth of luxury accommodations and excellent and different cuisine. For more information visit www.cnto.org
A variety of extensions throughout China, including Xian, Guilin, the Yangtze River and Tibet, are offered to complement the Summer Games Programs. Programs are available in lengths of stay from four to 20 nights and include accommodations, round trip airfare from the U.S., airport meet and greet, airport transfers, daily event transfers, sightseeing, welcome reception and dinner, Cartan's special concierge service consisting of professional program managers and bi-lingual local staff. Call 310-546-9662 or visit http://www.cartan.com/
The 32-page Summer Games 2008 Travel Program Brochure features a variety of programs that include three-star, four-star and five-star hotels and a program offering University Housing in Beijing.
For Americans, China is like a different world. With about the same amount of land, but over 3 times the population, it's also a very busy country full of history, culture and new experiences.China is forever linked to its ancient civilization, friendly people, and many of the world’s most revered treasures, such as The Great Wall, Terra-Cotta Warriors & Horses and the Yangtze River. Today, one can also find spectacular architecture and towering skylines in Shanghai and Beijing (site of the 2008 Summer Olympics), a wealth of luxury accommodations and excellent and different cuisine. For more information visit www.cnto.org
A variety of extensions throughout China, including Xian, Guilin, the Yangtze River and Tibet, are offered to complement the Summer Games Programs. Programs are available in lengths of stay from four to 20 nights and include accommodations, round trip airfare from the U.S., airport meet and greet, airport transfers, daily event transfers, sightseeing, welcome reception and dinner, Cartan's special concierge service consisting of professional program managers and bi-lingual local staff. Call 310-546-9662 or visit http://www.cartan.com/
Wednesday
Funjet Vacations Cuts Prices on Caribbean Packages
Funjet Vacations is offering savings of up to 30 percent on complete air and hotel packages in the Caribbean via American Airlines.
Valid destinations include Aruba, Jamaica, Puerto Plata, St. Croix, St. Martin, St. Lucia, Puerto Rico, St. Thomas and Grand Bahama Island from Miami or Fort Lauderdale.
This offer is valid for bookings until May 22, for travel through June 27. The same discount applies to bookings through May 21 for travel through Dec. 12 from Atlanta, Chicago, New York City, Tampa, Orlando, Miami, Fort Lauderdale or Washington, D.C. to Nassau or St. Martin. An additional 35-40 percent savings is available on complete vacation packages booked by July 15 and traveling to Nassau Sept. 4-Dec. 21, and/or bookings by July 10 to St. Martin when traveling by Aug. 31.
For more information, visit http://collage.triseptsolutions.com/VendorCenter7.5/IFJ/pdfs/AA_Carib_May_Sale.pdf.
Clients can save up to $500 per couple on last minute trips to Mexico and the Caribbean when booked by May 17. Some of the top hotels such as Palace Resorts, Riu Resorts, Excellence Resorts, Sandals Resorts and Crown Paradise are all offering free extras.
Sample offers include free nights, spa credits, honeymoon and anniversary specials, free weddings, and kids stay, play and eat for free. For complete information on each hotel's added values, visit the hotel's profile within www.vaxvacationaccess.com. For more information, visit www.vaxvacationaccess.com
Valid destinations include Aruba, Jamaica, Puerto Plata, St. Croix, St. Martin, St. Lucia, Puerto Rico, St. Thomas and Grand Bahama Island from Miami or Fort Lauderdale.
This offer is valid for bookings until May 22, for travel through June 27. The same discount applies to bookings through May 21 for travel through Dec. 12 from Atlanta, Chicago, New York City, Tampa, Orlando, Miami, Fort Lauderdale or Washington, D.C. to Nassau or St. Martin. An additional 35-40 percent savings is available on complete vacation packages booked by July 15 and traveling to Nassau Sept. 4-Dec. 21, and/or bookings by July 10 to St. Martin when traveling by Aug. 31.
For more information, visit http://collage.triseptsolutions.com/VendorCenter7.5/IFJ/pdfs/AA_Carib_May_Sale.pdf.
Clients can save up to $500 per couple on last minute trips to Mexico and the Caribbean when booked by May 17. Some of the top hotels such as Palace Resorts, Riu Resorts, Excellence Resorts, Sandals Resorts and Crown Paradise are all offering free extras.
Sample offers include free nights, spa credits, honeymoon and anniversary specials, free weddings, and kids stay, play and eat for free. For complete information on each hotel's added values, visit the hotel's profile within www.vaxvacationaccess.com. For more information, visit www.vaxvacationaccess.com
Tuesday
Cozumel's "Fun in the Sun" Travel Agent Seminar Program
Cozumel is offering a series of "Fun in the Sun" seminars for home based travel agents across the U.S. The Cozumel Tourism Promotion Board is hosting the in-depth seminars about the Mexican-Caribbean destination in 12 major cities over the course of three weeks.
The seminars are designed to help educate agents about Cozumel, highlight the popularity of the destination and provide tools and information for selling Cozumel. Each workshop includes a presentation about Cozumel and covers topics such as the island's popularity as a dive, family and romance destination; the ability to offer a wide range of accommodations; and the island's setting as a wedding and honeymoon venue.
It will also give home based travel agents a chance to learn the latest news and updates from Cozumel and receive information about island's increased luxury and spa offerings, as well as information on the recent opening of Cozumel's newest attraction, Discover Mexico, a cultural based theme park.
A new, comprehensive Cozumel guide, along with brochures and materials about the hotels and attractions throughout the destination, will be available at each seminar. Raul Marrufo, director of the Cozumel Tourism Promotion Board, and representatives from various Cozumel hotels and resorts will be on hand to address questions.
Admission to the seminars, which are open to travel agents only, is $8. Workshops will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. with a sit-down dinner, except for the Bellevue, Wash., seminar, which will take place in the morning. The cities and dates of the seminars are: Atlanta, May 14; Cincinnati, May 16; Baltimore, May 17; Scottsdale, Ariz., May 21; Denver, May 22; Bellevue, Wash., May 23; Portland, Ore., May 23; Universal City, Calif., May 24; and San Francisco, May 25. Call Destination Ventures at 800-599-6633 or visit http://www.cozumel-seminars.com/.
The seminars are designed to help educate agents about Cozumel, highlight the popularity of the destination and provide tools and information for selling Cozumel. Each workshop includes a presentation about Cozumel and covers topics such as the island's popularity as a dive, family and romance destination; the ability to offer a wide range of accommodations; and the island's setting as a wedding and honeymoon venue.
It will also give home based travel agents a chance to learn the latest news and updates from Cozumel and receive information about island's increased luxury and spa offerings, as well as information on the recent opening of Cozumel's newest attraction, Discover Mexico, a cultural based theme park.
A new, comprehensive Cozumel guide, along with brochures and materials about the hotels and attractions throughout the destination, will be available at each seminar. Raul Marrufo, director of the Cozumel Tourism Promotion Board, and representatives from various Cozumel hotels and resorts will be on hand to address questions.
Admission to the seminars, which are open to travel agents only, is $8. Workshops will take place from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. with a sit-down dinner, except for the Bellevue, Wash., seminar, which will take place in the morning. The cities and dates of the seminars are: Atlanta, May 14; Cincinnati, May 16; Baltimore, May 17; Scottsdale, Ariz., May 21; Denver, May 22; Bellevue, Wash., May 23; Portland, Ore., May 23; Universal City, Calif., May 24; and San Francisco, May 25. Call Destination Ventures at 800-599-6633 or visit http://www.cozumel-seminars.com/.
Monday
Carnival Website Offers Custom-Made Shirts for Groups
Carnival Cruise Lines has partnered with Davenport, Iowa-based Victory Store Inc. to create a special website that allows consumers to create custom-designed shirts to wear during or after their cruise. The service caters to the growing number of family reunions and other special occasion groups sailing aboard the "Fun Ship" fleet.
The web site, located at www.carnivalfuntees.com, offers three shirt styles -- T-shirt, polo shirt or tank top -- which can be imprinted with images and information from templates for eight different affinity groups: Family Reunion, Friends and Family, Girlfriend Getaways, Anniversary, Birthday, Wedding, Honeymoon, and Corporate. Once the shirt and template are selected, consumers can customize the message tailored to their particular event or occasion, with information such as their group's name, Carnival ship and cruise departure date.
T-shirts can be customized with a design on both the front and back. Children's sizes are available, as well. A variety of colorful designs is offered, from tropical Caribbean scenes with beaches and palm trees to images of Carnival's ships and the line's signature winged funnel. The cost for the custom-designed shirts begins at $15 and can vary depending on the shirt style selected. Volume discounts are available. Carnival has licensed Victory Store to use its trademarks on shirts manufactured and distributed by Victory Store. For more information, call 800-327-9501 or visit www.bookccl.com.
The web site, located at www.carnivalfuntees.com, offers three shirt styles -- T-shirt, polo shirt or tank top -- which can be imprinted with images and information from templates for eight different affinity groups: Family Reunion, Friends and Family, Girlfriend Getaways, Anniversary, Birthday, Wedding, Honeymoon, and Corporate. Once the shirt and template are selected, consumers can customize the message tailored to their particular event or occasion, with information such as their group's name, Carnival ship and cruise departure date.
T-shirts can be customized with a design on both the front and back. Children's sizes are available, as well. A variety of colorful designs is offered, from tropical Caribbean scenes with beaches and palm trees to images of Carnival's ships and the line's signature winged funnel. The cost for the custom-designed shirts begins at $15 and can vary depending on the shirt style selected. Volume discounts are available. Carnival has licensed Victory Store to use its trademarks on shirts manufactured and distributed by Victory Store. For more information, call 800-327-9501 or visit www.bookccl.com.
GOGO Offers Free Dining at Disney World
GOGO Worldwide Vacations is including free dining with bookings of Walt Disney World vacations through June 24 for travel Aug. 26 to Sept. 22. The free dining package, normally priced $40, includes breakfast with a favorite Disney character.
The Magic Your Way packages start at $455 per person departing from New York, $529 departing from Boston or $475 departing from Philadelphia. Prices are per person, based on double occupancy accommodations at Disney's Pop Century Resort, round trip midweek air. The packages include round-trip airfare, free Disney Dining Plan which includes one table service meal, one counter service meal and one snack per day, accommodations at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel including hotel taxes, a three-day Disney's Magic Your Way Base Ticket and use of Disney's Magical Express Service.
The packages can be purchase for several Walt Disney World Resort hotels including Disney's Pop Century, Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort and Disney's Beach Club Resort. Additional gateways and longer and/or shorter stays are available. For pricing or additional information please contact GOGO Worldwide Vacations at 800-229-4999 or visit www.gogowwv.com.com.
The Magic Your Way packages start at $455 per person departing from New York, $529 departing from Boston or $475 departing from Philadelphia. Prices are per person, based on double occupancy accommodations at Disney's Pop Century Resort, round trip midweek air. The packages include round-trip airfare, free Disney Dining Plan which includes one table service meal, one counter service meal and one snack per day, accommodations at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel including hotel taxes, a three-day Disney's Magic Your Way Base Ticket and use of Disney's Magical Express Service.
The packages can be purchase for several Walt Disney World Resort hotels including Disney's Pop Century, Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort and Disney's Beach Club Resort. Additional gateways and longer and/or shorter stays are available. For pricing or additional information please contact GOGO Worldwide Vacations at 800-229-4999 or visit www.gogowwv.com.com.
Apple Vacations Agent Appreciation Month
Apple Vacations kicked off its third annual Travel Agent Appreciation Month in May, the month the operator sets aside each year to pay tribute to travel agents with giveaways and specials for agents only.
Giveaways include the following: Each week Apple Vacations will award one lucky agent 100 percent commission -- the full base price of the trip. Four agents will win 10,000 Bonus Royalties Points, redeemable for their choice of rewards, gifts or vacations. Four agents will be awarded an all-inclusive vacation to Mexico or the Caribbean.
Travel agents who book any of the participating hotel chains in the month of May for travel any time are automatically entered in the giveaways. Participating hotel chains include AM Resorts, Iberostar, Occidental, Starwood, Riu and seven others. Winners will be announced on June 4.
Additionally, Apple is offering special incentives for travel agents only, including independent fams. To learn more agents should visit www.applevacations.com/applelovesyou for a list of fams available from each city.
Agents can earn up to 20 percent commission on all Europe bookings, from now until May 31 for travel through October 2007. As always, agents earn Double Royalties Points for booking online.
More details on these special "travel agent only" offers are posted on Apple Vacations' agent-only website, www.myappleonline.com and on its special agent appreciation page, www.applevacations.com/applelovesyou.
Giveaways include the following: Each week Apple Vacations will award one lucky agent 100 percent commission -- the full base price of the trip. Four agents will win 10,000 Bonus Royalties Points, redeemable for their choice of rewards, gifts or vacations. Four agents will be awarded an all-inclusive vacation to Mexico or the Caribbean.
Travel agents who book any of the participating hotel chains in the month of May for travel any time are automatically entered in the giveaways. Participating hotel chains include AM Resorts, Iberostar, Occidental, Starwood, Riu and seven others. Winners will be announced on June 4.
Additionally, Apple is offering special incentives for travel agents only, including independent fams. To learn more agents should visit www.applevacations.com/applelovesyou for a list of fams available from each city.
Agents can earn up to 20 percent commission on all Europe bookings, from now until May 31 for travel through October 2007. As always, agents earn Double Royalties Points for booking online.
More details on these special "travel agent only" offers are posted on Apple Vacations' agent-only website, www.myappleonline.com and on its special agent appreciation page, www.applevacations.com/applelovesyou.
Saturday
Celebrity Cruises Announces New Cruise Line Azamara Cruises
Celebrity introduces a new, deluxe cruise brand: “Azamara Cruises.” Designed to offer exotic destination-driven travel experiences, Azamara Cruises – consisting of Azamara Journey, which sets sail May 5, and sister ship, Azamara Quest, which enters service in October – will present a more intimate onboard experience, while allowing access to the less-traveled ports of call experienced travelers want to visit.
On Azamara Cruises guests will enjoy a more exclusive guest experience, butler service in every stateroom and suite, as well as concierge-style amenities, including fresh-cut flowers, fresh fruit, Elemis toiletries, complimentary use of Frette cotton robes, two complimentary pairs of slippers, plasma TVs and plush European bedding. There will also be an enhanced emphasis on spa and relaxation, with treatments many cruise travelers have never experienced.
A separate group and individual reservations department has been established to support Azamara Cruises (877-222-2526)
Azamara Cruises official website is www.azamaracruises.com
Your existing Celebrity commission levels will apply to all Azamara Cruises bookings sailing during 2007
The Azamara logo is available on cruisingpower.com. Please begin using this logo when advertising Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest.
Azamara Cruises presents the best of Bermuda and Panama Canal/South America in 2007, elite Asia and the most captivating Caribbean, South America and Europe in 2008, and around-the-world voyages in 2010. For more information you are encouraged to call 1-877-222-2526
On Azamara Cruises guests will enjoy a more exclusive guest experience, butler service in every stateroom and suite, as well as concierge-style amenities, including fresh-cut flowers, fresh fruit, Elemis toiletries, complimentary use of Frette cotton robes, two complimentary pairs of slippers, plasma TVs and plush European bedding. There will also be an enhanced emphasis on spa and relaxation, with treatments many cruise travelers have never experienced.
A separate group and individual reservations department has been established to support Azamara Cruises (877-222-2526)
Azamara Cruises official website is www.azamaracruises.com
Your existing Celebrity commission levels will apply to all Azamara Cruises bookings sailing during 2007
The Azamara logo is available on cruisingpower.com. Please begin using this logo when advertising Azamara Journey and Azamara Quest.
Azamara Cruises presents the best of Bermuda and Panama Canal/South America in 2007, elite Asia and the most captivating Caribbean, South America and Europe in 2008, and around-the-world voyages in 2010. For more information you are encouraged to call 1-877-222-2526
Wednesday
Carnival Extends Discounts to Military Personnel
Carnival Cruise Lines, in honor of Memorial Day, is launching a promotion throughout May that allows active and retired military personnel to book up to three staterooms for themselves and their friends and family members at special discounted rates.
Reservations must be made between May 1 and May 31, 2007, to qualify for this promotion, which is available in conjunction with a variety of three- to eight-day cruises departing May 1 through March 31, 2008, from six North American homeports. Rates start at $199 per person for three-day cruises from Miami and Port Canaveral, and four-day cruises from Long Beach, Calif.; $249 for five-day cruises from Mobile, Ala., and Jacksonville, Fla.; $379 for six-day voyages from Fort Lauderdale; $399 for seven-day cruises from Miami; and $499 for eight-day cruises from Fort Lauderdale.
The promotion is valid for individual bookings only, is capacity controlled and not applicable with any other discount offer. Fare code CPM1 must be requested during the reservations process. Military personnel must provide proof of service. For more information, call 800-327-9501 or visit www.bookccl.com.
Reservations must be made between May 1 and May 31, 2007, to qualify for this promotion, which is available in conjunction with a variety of three- to eight-day cruises departing May 1 through March 31, 2008, from six North American homeports. Rates start at $199 per person for three-day cruises from Miami and Port Canaveral, and four-day cruises from Long Beach, Calif.; $249 for five-day cruises from Mobile, Ala., and Jacksonville, Fla.; $379 for six-day voyages from Fort Lauderdale; $399 for seven-day cruises from Miami; and $499 for eight-day cruises from Fort Lauderdale.
The promotion is valid for individual bookings only, is capacity controlled and not applicable with any other discount offer. Fare code CPM1 must be requested during the reservations process. Military personnel must provide proof of service. For more information, call 800-327-9501 or visit www.bookccl.com.
Royal Caribbean to Launch Online Agent Locator
Royal Caribbean International unveiled enhancements to its online travel agent portal, http://www.cruisingpower.com/, which enables agents to promote themselves on the line's consumer website.
The enhancements will launch in May with the introduction of the line's newest ship, Liberty of the Seas, which shares the title of the world's largest cruise ship with sister ship Freedom of the Seas. "Royal Caribbean is committed to recommending travel agents as a valuable resource in the vacation planning process, and this online enhancement further demonstrates that commitment," said Lisa Bauer, senior vice president,-sales. "We are essentially giving our travel partners an unprecedented full-page of free advertising on RoyalCaribbean.com."Travel agents can create their online profile, including a company logo or photo, CLIA accreditation, and specialties in market segments and destinations, accessible by consumers through the "Locate a Travel Agent" tool on RoyalCaribbean.com.
In addition, travel agencies with an agent who has achieved the Expert Level of University of WOW, the line's new online agent certification program, will have the Royal Caribbean Expert accreditation next to their listing. Since the launch of the program in early April, more than 5,000 agents have enrolled in the University of WOW and 2,800 agents have completed the program. On RoyalCaribbean.com, consumers can search for a travel agent by name, city, state, and zip code and view the agency's profile by clicking on the "About this Agency" link on the results page. For more information, call 800-327-2056 or visit http://www.cruisingpower.com/.
The enhancements will launch in May with the introduction of the line's newest ship, Liberty of the Seas, which shares the title of the world's largest cruise ship with sister ship Freedom of the Seas. "Royal Caribbean is committed to recommending travel agents as a valuable resource in the vacation planning process, and this online enhancement further demonstrates that commitment," said Lisa Bauer, senior vice president,-sales. "We are essentially giving our travel partners an unprecedented full-page of free advertising on RoyalCaribbean.com."Travel agents can create their online profile, including a company logo or photo, CLIA accreditation, and specialties in market segments and destinations, accessible by consumers through the "Locate a Travel Agent" tool on RoyalCaribbean.com.
In addition, travel agencies with an agent who has achieved the Expert Level of University of WOW, the line's new online agent certification program, will have the Royal Caribbean Expert accreditation next to their listing. Since the launch of the program in early April, more than 5,000 agents have enrolled in the University of WOW and 2,800 agents have completed the program. On RoyalCaribbean.com, consumers can search for a travel agent by name, city, state, and zip code and view the agency's profile by clicking on the "About this Agency" link on the results page. For more information, call 800-327-2056 or visit http://www.cruisingpower.com/.
Tuesday
Did you know?
Many travel supplier policies will exclude cancellations due to pre-existing medical conditions.
AIG Travel Guard plans generally include coverage for pre-existing medical conditions and trip cancellations from the travel supplier's financial default*, if the coverage is purchased within 15 days of making the first deposit on a trip.
Keep in mind that the pre-existing medical waiver is not only for the traveler, but non-traveling family members as well so it is VERY important to have!!
Please call me to find out more, or if you have any questions!!
*Financial Default it not covered for all suppliers. View www.travelguard.com for details.
AIG Travel Guard plans generally include coverage for pre-existing medical conditions and trip cancellations from the travel supplier's financial default*, if the coverage is purchased within 15 days of making the first deposit on a trip.
Keep in mind that the pre-existing medical waiver is not only for the traveler, but non-traveling family members as well so it is VERY important to have!!
Please call me to find out more, or if you have any questions!!
*Financial Default it not covered for all suppliers. View www.travelguard.com for details.
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