GOGO Worldwide Vacations launched its Going One Better 4 You booking incentive, which makes it possible for agents to earn an additional $40 in commission on a package with a minimum four-night stay.
The price is valid on new bookings made and paid in full at the time of booking. The booking window is Sept. 29 to Oct. 18, for travel from Sept. 29 to Dec. 15. No tracking forms or paperwork is necessary. A $40 bonus check will be issued at departure. For information, visit www.gogowwv.com or www.gogoworldwidevacations.com.
Learn How to Become A Travel Agent... Open your own Home Based Travel Agency
Tuesday
Friday
Fort Lauderdale Introduces Fall Deals for Travel Agents
The Greater Fort Lauderdale hospitality community this fall is offering reduced rates for home based travel agents at more than 50 resorts, hotels and inns throughout the destination.
Agents can experience accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to select Superior Small Lodgings. Rates range from $35 at the smaller, quaint properties to $287 at luxury resorts. The prices are up to a 50 percent savings off the current values. “This is our way of celebrating travel agents and the hard work that they do to help make greater Fort Lauderdale a top year-round destination,” said Nicki Grossman, president of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Agents can think of it as research.”
To qualify for the reduced rates, travel agents must have current IATA or CLIA card, plus business card and any other certification required by individual property. Become a Preferred Travel Planer to receive e-news and special incentives for travel professionals at www.sunny.org/travelagents. For more information, call 800-22-SUNNY or visit www.sunny.org.
Agents can experience accommodations ranging from luxury hotels to select Superior Small Lodgings. Rates range from $35 at the smaller, quaint properties to $287 at luxury resorts. The prices are up to a 50 percent savings off the current values. “This is our way of celebrating travel agents and the hard work that they do to help make greater Fort Lauderdale a top year-round destination,” said Nicki Grossman, president of the Greater Fort Lauderdale Convention & Visitors Bureau. “Agents can think of it as research.”
To qualify for the reduced rates, travel agents must have current IATA or CLIA card, plus business card and any other certification required by individual property. Become a Preferred Travel Planer to receive e-news and special incentives for travel professionals at www.sunny.org/travelagents. For more information, call 800-22-SUNNY or visit www.sunny.org.
Sandals Unveils Honeymoon “Test Drive”
Sandals Resorts is offering a stress-free approach to honeymoon planning through its annual Test Drive Your Honeymoon event.
Available on Jan. 14 and Jan. 28 for $149 per person, including airfare, this event allows couples to take a peek at their honeymoon long before they say “I do” during a one-day jaunt to Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Joann Delgin, chief romance officer of Sandals Resorts, said, “What we have created here is an amazing opportunity for couples to feel confident, excited and stress-free about their choice in honeymoon destination. From gourmet dining and luxurious accommodations to entertainment and the exclusive Red Lane Spa, ‘test drive’ couples experience it all and, as an added bonus, break free from winter’s icy grip for the day.”
For couples who fly in to take their honeymoon for a spin, the exclusive sneak peek at Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island is available for $149 per person, including airfare. With same day non-stop champagne flights aboard airline Air Jamaica, the “test drive” offer is available from New York (JFK), Philadelphia (PHL), Baltimore (BWI), Atlanta (ATL) and Chicago (ORD). The event includes a preview of all of the luxurious amenities offered as part of a Sandals Resorts Luxury Included honeymoon. For more information, call 800-SANDALS or visit www.sandals.com/testdrive.
Available on Jan. 14 and Jan. 28 for $149 per person, including airfare, this event allows couples to take a peek at their honeymoon long before they say “I do” during a one-day jaunt to Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island in Montego Bay, Jamaica. Joann Delgin, chief romance officer of Sandals Resorts, said, “What we have created here is an amazing opportunity for couples to feel confident, excited and stress-free about their choice in honeymoon destination. From gourmet dining and luxurious accommodations to entertainment and the exclusive Red Lane Spa, ‘test drive’ couples experience it all and, as an added bonus, break free from winter’s icy grip for the day.”
For couples who fly in to take their honeymoon for a spin, the exclusive sneak peek at Sandals Royal Caribbean Resort & Private Island is available for $149 per person, including airfare. With same day non-stop champagne flights aboard airline Air Jamaica, the “test drive” offer is available from New York (JFK), Philadelphia (PHL), Baltimore (BWI), Atlanta (ATL) and Chicago (ORD). The event includes a preview of all of the luxurious amenities offered as part of a Sandals Resorts Luxury Included honeymoon. For more information, call 800-SANDALS or visit www.sandals.com/testdrive.
Key Tours Sets Fam Trips to Turkey
Key Tours International, a tour operator specializing in Europe and the Mediterranean region, is offering reduced rate travel agent fam trips to Turkey.
The 10-day Best of Turkey visits Istanbul, Ankara, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Hierapolis, Ephesus, Virgin Mary’s house, and Kusadasi. Departure 1 is Nov. 7-16. Departure 2 is Nov. 14-23.
The air and land price from New York is $699 (companion supplement $300, single-room supplement $350). The land-only price is $599 (companion supplement $200, single-room supplement $350).
The price includes international round-trip flight from New York on Turkish Airlines (TK); domestic flight from Izmir to Istanbul (TK309); eight nights accommodations with private bath or shower in Superior First Class (four- or five-star) hotels; breakfast daily and seven dinners; extensive sightseeing with multilingual guide including entrance fees; local transfers; porterage for two normal size suitcases except at the airport; land transportation by private air-conditioned motor coach; and hotel service charges and local taxes.
The price excludes airport taxes and fuel surcharges of $455 (subject to change); personal expenses; optional tours or events; customary tips to your drivers, guides and escorts that are made at the traveler's discretion. For detailed itinerary, terms and conditions, and registration, contact Vicki Sachs at Key Tours International at 703-591-3550 Ext. 128, fax 703-591-3553, or email vicki@keytours.com.
Agents can join fam trips during low season or join one a regular land programs at a rate reduced by 20 percent. After your return and within two years, if you book a group of 20 passengers for a minimum of eight days, we will reimburse the cost of the fam trip.
Key Tours Destinations are Italy & Croatia; Greece & Turkey; Egypt, Israel & Jordan; Spain, Portugal & Morocco; France, The Netherlands & Belgium; United Kingdom; Central Europe & Germany.
Key Tours International offers tailor-made travel; flexible custom packages; private group tours; financial security (100 percent of funds in escrow); knowledgeable destination expert travel consultants; local experts in all destinations; excellent value for the price. For more information, call 800-576-1784 or visit www.keytours.com.
The 10-day Best of Turkey visits Istanbul, Ankara, Cappadocia, Pamukkale, Hierapolis, Ephesus, Virgin Mary’s house, and Kusadasi. Departure 1 is Nov. 7-16. Departure 2 is Nov. 14-23.
The air and land price from New York is $699 (companion supplement $300, single-room supplement $350). The land-only price is $599 (companion supplement $200, single-room supplement $350).
The price includes international round-trip flight from New York on Turkish Airlines (TK); domestic flight from Izmir to Istanbul (TK309); eight nights accommodations with private bath or shower in Superior First Class (four- or five-star) hotels; breakfast daily and seven dinners; extensive sightseeing with multilingual guide including entrance fees; local transfers; porterage for two normal size suitcases except at the airport; land transportation by private air-conditioned motor coach; and hotel service charges and local taxes.
The price excludes airport taxes and fuel surcharges of $455 (subject to change); personal expenses; optional tours or events; customary tips to your drivers, guides and escorts that are made at the traveler's discretion. For detailed itinerary, terms and conditions, and registration, contact Vicki Sachs at Key Tours International at 703-591-3550 Ext. 128, fax 703-591-3553, or email vicki@keytours.com.
Agents can join fam trips during low season or join one a regular land programs at a rate reduced by 20 percent. After your return and within two years, if you book a group of 20 passengers for a minimum of eight days, we will reimburse the cost of the fam trip.
Key Tours Destinations are Italy & Croatia; Greece & Turkey; Egypt, Israel & Jordan; Spain, Portugal & Morocco; France, The Netherlands & Belgium; United Kingdom; Central Europe & Germany.
Key Tours International offers tailor-made travel; flexible custom packages; private group tours; financial security (100 percent of funds in escrow); knowledgeable destination expert travel consultants; local experts in all destinations; excellent value for the price. For more information, call 800-576-1784 or visit www.keytours.com.
Uniworld Offers Savings on 2009 Europe River Cruises
Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection is offering savings of up to $2,000 per couple to travelers who pay in full for their 2009 Europe river cruise by Sept. 30. For more information, call 800-733-7820 or visit www.uniworld.com.
MSC Cruises Increases Group Commission to 18 Percent
MSC Cruises will boost commissions to 18 percent on groups for Europe 2009 if booked by Oct. 31. The offer is good on all MSC ships except for MSC Musica. “MSC Cruises is committed to helping our home based travel agent partners succeed,” said Richard E. Sasso, president and CEO of MSC Cruises-USA.
In addition, on all MSC Cruises’ sailings, kids ages 17 and under sail free when sharing a stateroom with two full-fare-paying adults. For all groups blocked by Oct. 31 for the 2009-10 Caribbean season, MSC Cruises will offer an automatic 90-day option date for the good faith deposit (without utilizing earned Music Points). For any groups that have already been submitted, the line will automatically issue a group contract with a 90-day option and will not count Music Points. To help agents increase their group sales, MSC Cruises offers an array of sales and marketing tools as well as simplified mega-category pricing. For more information, visit www.msccruisesagent.com.
In addition, on all MSC Cruises’ sailings, kids ages 17 and under sail free when sharing a stateroom with two full-fare-paying adults. For all groups blocked by Oct. 31 for the 2009-10 Caribbean season, MSC Cruises will offer an automatic 90-day option date for the good faith deposit (without utilizing earned Music Points). For any groups that have already been submitted, the line will automatically issue a group contract with a 90-day option and will not count Music Points. To help agents increase their group sales, MSC Cruises offers an array of sales and marketing tools as well as simplified mega-category pricing. For more information, visit www.msccruisesagent.com.
Thursday
South Africa’s Destination Specialist Program
South African Tourism is pleased to announce the launch of the new version of, Fundi, a training program for travel agents to help you become more knowledgeable about the African continent’s most vibrant country.
To mark the launch of the new version of FUNDI, a sweepstakes will award 2 fortunate program graduates per month at the end of July, August and September 2008, with free tickets to South Africa courtesy of South African Airways.
In South Africa-speak, the word Fundi (pronounced ‘foon-dee’) comes from the Zulu word ‘umfundi’ which means ‘learner’ and refers to being an expert in a particular field.
This basic course will guide you in selling South Africa as a travel destination, as well as give you the tools to secure that booking. Being a FUNDI Specialist affords you an opportunity to know more about South Africa, therefore servicing your clients better and growing your business. Click here to begin.
To mark the launch of the new version of FUNDI, a sweepstakes will award 2 fortunate program graduates per month at the end of July, August and September 2008, with free tickets to South Africa courtesy of South African Airways.
In South Africa-speak, the word Fundi (pronounced ‘foon-dee’) comes from the Zulu word ‘umfundi’ which means ‘learner’ and refers to being an expert in a particular field.
This basic course will guide you in selling South Africa as a travel destination, as well as give you the tools to secure that booking. Being a FUNDI Specialist affords you an opportunity to know more about South Africa, therefore servicing your clients better and growing your business. Click here to begin.
Vacation.com Launches Website for 2009 Conference
In anticipation of the 11th International Conference & Trade Show, set for June 17 to 20, 2009 (with a pre-conference training day on June 16) at Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, Vacation.com has launched its 2009 conference website and extended the early bird registration rate until Oct. 31, 2008.
The site features a detailed schedule of events, class descriptions, speaker information, registration section, hotel information and list of participating exhibitors. The website can be accessed via www.AgentNet.com. U.S. members will receive one complimentary registration per agency as part of their annual membership fee. Additional agents from the same agency can receive the early bird rate of $79 per person when they register by Oct. 31, 2008.
Early bird registrants receive class registration priority, exclusive FAM opportunities and the chance to win a private marketing makeover with Mike Marchev. Caesars Palace is also offering discounted accommodations for all conference registrants who reserve and prepay for a room by March 21, 2009.
The 2009 conference agenda will include sessions that are designed to enable members to enhance profits through deeper preferred supplier knowledge, new business strategies and technologies, and effective use of Vacation.com programs and tools.
Classes will focus on key preferred supplier relations and networking opportunities will allow agents to mingle with other Vacation.com members and new suppliers. Participants can also enroll in continuing education courses to earn CLIA credits. For more information, visit www.AgentNet.com.
The site features a detailed schedule of events, class descriptions, speaker information, registration section, hotel information and list of participating exhibitors. The website can be accessed via www.AgentNet.com. U.S. members will receive one complimentary registration per agency as part of their annual membership fee. Additional agents from the same agency can receive the early bird rate of $79 per person when they register by Oct. 31, 2008.
Early bird registrants receive class registration priority, exclusive FAM opportunities and the chance to win a private marketing makeover with Mike Marchev. Caesars Palace is also offering discounted accommodations for all conference registrants who reserve and prepay for a room by March 21, 2009.
The 2009 conference agenda will include sessions that are designed to enable members to enhance profits through deeper preferred supplier knowledge, new business strategies and technologies, and effective use of Vacation.com programs and tools.
Classes will focus on key preferred supplier relations and networking opportunities will allow agents to mingle with other Vacation.com members and new suppliers. Participants can also enroll in continuing education courses to earn CLIA credits. For more information, visit www.AgentNet.com.
Carnival’s October Event Offers Booking Incentives
Carnival Cruise Lines offers the company’s first-ever “October Recharge” event featuring special offers throughout October.
This month-long promotion will feature a variety of booking incentives, including free stateroom upgrades and discounts on select cruises through 2009. The offers are available in conjunction with a variety of departures, including three- to five-day cruises in the Caribbean and Mexico, seven-day voyages to the Caribbean or Mexican Riviera, or longer sailings to Europe and Alaska.
“In addition to offering excellent value, October is the perfect time to book a ‘Fun Ship’ cruise for some much-needed R&R as it is positioned perfectly between the busy summer period and the often-hectic holiday season,” said Ruben Rodriguez, Carnival’s executive vice president of marketing and guest experience. The October Recharge event will be promoted through banner ads and a special section within Carnival’s website, as well as email blasts and trade print advertisements. For more information, call 800-327-9501 or visit www.bookccl.com.
This month-long promotion will feature a variety of booking incentives, including free stateroom upgrades and discounts on select cruises through 2009. The offers are available in conjunction with a variety of departures, including three- to five-day cruises in the Caribbean and Mexico, seven-day voyages to the Caribbean or Mexican Riviera, or longer sailings to Europe and Alaska.
“In addition to offering excellent value, October is the perfect time to book a ‘Fun Ship’ cruise for some much-needed R&R as it is positioned perfectly between the busy summer period and the often-hectic holiday season,” said Ruben Rodriguez, Carnival’s executive vice president of marketing and guest experience. The October Recharge event will be promoted through banner ads and a special section within Carnival’s website, as well as email blasts and trade print advertisements. For more information, call 800-327-9501 or visit www.bookccl.com.
Wednesday
Become a Puerto Rico Travel Expert
Training includes a FAM trip* to Puerto Rico!
When you successfully complete Chapters 1- 4, you will receive a pop-up allowing you to download the Fam Trip application forms. If you log-out, or miss this pop-up, log back in and you will see the link to the Fam trip forms. The related Fam Trip to Puerto Rico is necessary for graduation.
Following certification in Puerto Rico, you will have access to the PRTE Rewards program and graduate Chapters 5-10. Please excuse any technical difficulties you may have experienced, when attempting to access the program earlier. The program is now fully functional.
Click here
When you successfully complete Chapters 1- 4, you will receive a pop-up allowing you to download the Fam Trip application forms. If you log-out, or miss this pop-up, log back in and you will see the link to the Fam trip forms. The related Fam Trip to Puerto Rico is necessary for graduation.
Following certification in Puerto Rico, you will have access to the PRTE Rewards program and graduate Chapters 5-10. Please excuse any technical difficulties you may have experienced, when attempting to access the program earlier. The program is now fully functional.
Click here
Faith Tourism - A $18 Billion Market!
This year, faith tourism will generate more than $18 billion in bookings around the world! Will you get your share of this growing market?
Join us on Tuesday, Sept. 30, at 3 pm Eastern for a fast-paced Webinar featuring Kevin J. Wright, Honnie Korngold, and Jon Fugler with the World Religious Travel Association!
You'll learn the latest trends and updates in the faith tourism market, as well as practical tips for prospecting and closing sales for religious trips in 2009 and beyond. We expect a large crowd for this special Webinar, so please register as soon as possible at this page to reserve your spot!
Join us on Tuesday, Sept. 30, at 3 pm Eastern for a fast-paced Webinar featuring Kevin J. Wright, Honnie Korngold, and Jon Fugler with the World Religious Travel Association!
You'll learn the latest trends and updates in the faith tourism market, as well as practical tips for prospecting and closing sales for religious trips in 2009 and beyond. We expect a large crowd for this special Webinar, so please register as soon as possible at this page to reserve your spot!
Tuesday
Funjet Vacations New Webinar
Join us for a Webinar on September 26
Space is limited.
Reserve your Webinar seat now at:https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/640798892
Space is limited.
Reserve your Webinar seat now at:https://www1.gotomeeting.com/register/640798892
Become a USVI Specialist Today!
Learn how to effectively communicate what America’s Caribbean has to offer for your clients.
What are the benefits of becoming a certified USVI Specialist? Opportunity to win an all-inclusive trip to the USVI.
Be eligible to benefit from the USVI Rewards Program, Priority invitation to in-market events.
Become a USVI Specialist Today!
What are the benefits of becoming a certified USVI Specialist? Opportunity to win an all-inclusive trip to the USVI.
Be eligible to benefit from the USVI Rewards Program, Priority invitation to in-market events.
Become a USVI Specialist Today!
Monday
Viking River Cruises Offers Agent Fams This Fall
Viking River Cruises is offering new familiarization cruises and cruise-tours to home based travel agents.
“Fams are a terrific benefit to us, as well as to the travel agents we work with,” said Michele Saegesser, vice president of North America and South Pacific sales. “Travel agents who have been on one or more of our river cruises are in a much better position to communicate the benefits of these journeys to their clients -- and they have a high degree of confidence that their clients will enjoy traveling with Viking.”
The fams include all meals, daily excursions and guided tours, cultural highlights such as lectures, folkloric entertainment and theme dinners, and visits to historic and popular attractions.
Among the options are Waterways of the Czars, 13 days, St. Petersburg to Moscow on the newly renovated Viking Surkov, Oct. 2, 2008, from $999; Footsteps of the Cossack, 11 days, Kiev to Odessa on Viking Lavrinenkov, Oct. 5, $699;
Grand European Tour, 15 days, between Amsterdam and Budapest on Viking Danube, Viking Spirit, Viking Sky or Viking Pride, Oct. 19, Oct. 26, Nov. 2, $999;
Switzerland to Belgium, 15 days, between Basel and Antwerp on Viking Sun, Nov. 16 or Dec. 14, $999;
Rhine Getaway, eight days, Amsterdam to Basel on Viking Sun, Dec. 7, $499.
For more information, call 877-668-4546 or visit www.vikingrivercruises.com.
“Fams are a terrific benefit to us, as well as to the travel agents we work with,” said Michele Saegesser, vice president of North America and South Pacific sales. “Travel agents who have been on one or more of our river cruises are in a much better position to communicate the benefits of these journeys to their clients -- and they have a high degree of confidence that their clients will enjoy traveling with Viking.”
The fams include all meals, daily excursions and guided tours, cultural highlights such as lectures, folkloric entertainment and theme dinners, and visits to historic and popular attractions.
Among the options are Waterways of the Czars, 13 days, St. Petersburg to Moscow on the newly renovated Viking Surkov, Oct. 2, 2008, from $999; Footsteps of the Cossack, 11 days, Kiev to Odessa on Viking Lavrinenkov, Oct. 5, $699;
Grand European Tour, 15 days, between Amsterdam and Budapest on Viking Danube, Viking Spirit, Viking Sky or Viking Pride, Oct. 19, Oct. 26, Nov. 2, $999;
Switzerland to Belgium, 15 days, between Basel and Antwerp on Viking Sun, Nov. 16 or Dec. 14, $999;
Rhine Getaway, eight days, Amsterdam to Basel on Viking Sun, Dec. 7, $499.
For more information, call 877-668-4546 or visit www.vikingrivercruises.com.
Disney Offers Free Birthday Admission
Walt Disney Parks & Resorts yesterday announced its marketing theme for 2009 will be “What Will You Celebrate?” encouraging guests to visit the parks for birthdays, anniversaries, family reunions, honeymoons, weddings and other celebratory gatherings.
As part of that campaign, Jay Rasulo, chairman of Disney Parks & Resorts, announced that everyone who visits a Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort theme park on their birthday in 2009 can get in free, as Disney Parks embrace the new trend in family travel called “celebration vacations.”
As part of that campaign, Jay Rasulo, chairman of Disney Parks & Resorts, announced that everyone who visits a Walt Disney World Resort or Disneyland Resort theme park on their birthday in 2009 can get in free, as Disney Parks embrace the new trend in family travel called “celebration vacations.”
BECOME A COSTA CRUISE LINES SPECIALIST !
Agents who pass the seven chapter quizzes receive these graduate benefits:
3 percent bonus commission for one year after graduation.*
5 CLIA certification credits.
One lucky graduate has the chance to win an all-expense paid trip for two on one of Costa’s 2009 inaugural cruises.
Assigned Customer Service representative and assistance through Costa’s Sales Support Team.
Every three months graduates will be entered into a drawing to win a Costa Espresso Machine.
Every three months all graduates will be entered in a drawing to receive $1000 of marketing co-op funds to promote Costa. A Costa Cruise Line Business Development Manager will contact you and assist you in creating a marketing plan
Click here to become a Costa Cruise Lines Specialist
3 percent bonus commission for one year after graduation.*
5 CLIA certification credits.
One lucky graduate has the chance to win an all-expense paid trip for two on one of Costa’s 2009 inaugural cruises.
Assigned Customer Service representative and assistance through Costa’s Sales Support Team.
Every three months graduates will be entered into a drawing to win a Costa Espresso Machine.
Every three months all graduates will be entered in a drawing to receive $1000 of marketing co-op funds to promote Costa. A Costa Cruise Line Business Development Manager will contact you and assist you in creating a marketing plan
Click here to become a Costa Cruise Lines Specialist
Friday
Regent Seven Seas Cruises Stage Luxury Platinum Home Based Travel Agent Training Seminars
Platinum Seminars continues to be the luxury leader in training home based travel agents on luxury ships.
Regent Seven Seas Mariner and Voyager are featured this fall and winter during Platinum’s Luxury Fest. The destinations include South America, Asia, South Pacific, Europe and Alaska.
The schedules are:
Mariner, South America, Jan, 26, 2009, 18 nights;
Mariner, Sydney to Singapore, March 25, 2009, 15 nights;
Mariner, Alaska to Osaka, Sept. 18, 2009, 14 nights;
Voyager, Mediterranean, Oct. 25, 2009, 11 nights;
Voyager, Mediterranean, Nov. 5, 2009, 10 nights;
Mariner, Sydney to Auckland, Nov. 19, 2009, 13 nights;
Mariner, Auckland to L.A., Dec. 2, 2009, 19 nights.
A valid IATAN or CLIA card is required to travel.
For more information, call 404-874-5890 or visit http://www.platinumseminars.com/.
Regent Seven Seas Mariner and Voyager are featured this fall and winter during Platinum’s Luxury Fest. The destinations include South America, Asia, South Pacific, Europe and Alaska.
The schedules are:
Mariner, South America, Jan, 26, 2009, 18 nights;
Mariner, Sydney to Singapore, March 25, 2009, 15 nights;
Mariner, Alaska to Osaka, Sept. 18, 2009, 14 nights;
Voyager, Mediterranean, Oct. 25, 2009, 11 nights;
Voyager, Mediterranean, Nov. 5, 2009, 10 nights;
Mariner, Sydney to Auckland, Nov. 19, 2009, 13 nights;
Mariner, Auckland to L.A., Dec. 2, 2009, 19 nights.
A valid IATAN or CLIA card is required to travel.
For more information, call 404-874-5890 or visit http://www.platinumseminars.com/.
Wednesday
Increase Your Knowledge
Home Based Travel Agents are invited to join Maria Prezioso, Marketing Director for US flagged, niche cruise line, American Canadian Caribbean Line (ACCL). Learn how you will profit when your clients Cruise America's Waterways.
Maria will provide an informative 20 minute introduction to American Canadian Caribbean Line, who for over 40 years has offered family operated niche cruises in New England, Erie Canal, Canada, Great Lakes, East Coast, Mississippi, Caribbean and more.
ACCL operates unique US Flag expedition-style ships, and goes where the big ships cannot.
Learn the hallmarks of ACCL, ACCL exclusive itineraries and most importantly, special offers for you and your clients.
Date: Tuesday, September 16
Time: 9am PT, 10am MT, 11am CT, 12pm ET
Click to Register
Maria will provide an informative 20 minute introduction to American Canadian Caribbean Line, who for over 40 years has offered family operated niche cruises in New England, Erie Canal, Canada, Great Lakes, East Coast, Mississippi, Caribbean and more.
ACCL operates unique US Flag expedition-style ships, and goes where the big ships cannot.
Learn the hallmarks of ACCL, ACCL exclusive itineraries and most importantly, special offers for you and your clients.
Date: Tuesday, September 16
Time: 9am PT, 10am MT, 11am CT, 12pm ET
Click to Register
Thursday
Dollar-friendly destinations
Panama
Panama has been using the U.S. dollar as its own for more than 100 years. As I noted in this longer article about travel in Panama, prices are lower here than in neighboring Costa Rica, but many of the reasons for visiting are similar. If you’re a birdwatcher, a wildlife buff, an adventure traveler, or someone who loves to sail and go island hopping, Panama will keep you occupied for weeks.
Ecuador
Ecuador also uses the dollar as its own currency. The land best known as the home of the Galapagos Islands has a lot more to offer, with the Andes Mountains, thick rainforest jungle, and some bargain-priced beach resorts. Ecuador gets its name from the equator passing through, but much of it is not all that hot because of altitude: this is the one spot where you can find snow on the equator-on Volcán Cayambe at nearly 19,000 feet. The historic center of capital city Quito has gotten a major makeover in the past few years and is also worth a visit.
Belize
The exchange rate with Belize never budges much beyond a range of 1.97 to 2.05. In other words, it’s 2 Belize dollars for every 1 American dollar, give or take a couple pennies. You don’t have to take a time machine to get a lot for your dollars here, whether you want to scuba dive, snorkel, sail, lie on a beach, or explore the jungle interior.
Caribbean and Atlantic Islands
As many cruise ship passengers have learned, there are several Caribbean islands and clusters of islands that peg their currency to the greenback. Barbados’ currency trades at a stable 2 to 1 with the dollar, while in the Bahamas or Bermuda you can use their dollars or your own—the value is the same. The exchange rate is stable in Turks & Caicos and the British Virgin Islands, and of course the U.S. dollar is the principal currency in the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. This doesn’t mean you’ll find bargains galore in all these locations, but you can feel secure that prices won’t suddenly rise because of an exchange rate change.
Argentina
This is an example that may not stand the test of time, but since 2003 the Argentine currency has moved in a narrow range of around 3 pesos to 1 U.S. dollar. Before the massive economic crisis that hit the country at the beginning of the decade, it was 1 to 1 and it’s certainly possible things will change again in the future. For now though, even though inflation is high and prices aren’t as low as they were a few years ago, Argentina is a relative bargain and Buenos Aires is the best substitute for a visit to a European city.
All of the above destinations are in this hemisphere, places where you can frequently find reasonable flight or package deals and you won’t have to worry about jet lag. If you want to go further, Hong Kong, Guam, Saipan, Jordan, and Dubai all have currencies pegged to the U.S. dollar.
Panama has been using the U.S. dollar as its own for more than 100 years. As I noted in this longer article about travel in Panama, prices are lower here than in neighboring Costa Rica, but many of the reasons for visiting are similar. If you’re a birdwatcher, a wildlife buff, an adventure traveler, or someone who loves to sail and go island hopping, Panama will keep you occupied for weeks.
Ecuador
Ecuador also uses the dollar as its own currency. The land best known as the home of the Galapagos Islands has a lot more to offer, with the Andes Mountains, thick rainforest jungle, and some bargain-priced beach resorts. Ecuador gets its name from the equator passing through, but much of it is not all that hot because of altitude: this is the one spot where you can find snow on the equator-on Volcán Cayambe at nearly 19,000 feet. The historic center of capital city Quito has gotten a major makeover in the past few years and is also worth a visit.
Belize
The exchange rate with Belize never budges much beyond a range of 1.97 to 2.05. In other words, it’s 2 Belize dollars for every 1 American dollar, give or take a couple pennies. You don’t have to take a time machine to get a lot for your dollars here, whether you want to scuba dive, snorkel, sail, lie on a beach, or explore the jungle interior.
Caribbean and Atlantic Islands
As many cruise ship passengers have learned, there are several Caribbean islands and clusters of islands that peg their currency to the greenback. Barbados’ currency trades at a stable 2 to 1 with the dollar, while in the Bahamas or Bermuda you can use their dollars or your own—the value is the same. The exchange rate is stable in Turks & Caicos and the British Virgin Islands, and of course the U.S. dollar is the principal currency in the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. This doesn’t mean you’ll find bargains galore in all these locations, but you can feel secure that prices won’t suddenly rise because of an exchange rate change.
Argentina
This is an example that may not stand the test of time, but since 2003 the Argentine currency has moved in a narrow range of around 3 pesos to 1 U.S. dollar. Before the massive economic crisis that hit the country at the beginning of the decade, it was 1 to 1 and it’s certainly possible things will change again in the future. For now though, even though inflation is high and prices aren’t as low as they were a few years ago, Argentina is a relative bargain and Buenos Aires is the best substitute for a visit to a European city.
All of the above destinations are in this hemisphere, places where you can frequently find reasonable flight or package deals and you won’t have to worry about jet lag. If you want to go further, Hong Kong, Guam, Saipan, Jordan, and Dubai all have currencies pegged to the U.S. dollar.
Vcom Webinars
Vacation.com has added a new session to the A View From The Top webinar series hosted by Jan Swartz, senior vice president, Customer Service and Sales, Princess Cruises, which will take place in November 2008.
Each month Vacation.com brings high-ranking executives from preferred suppliers directly to members' desktops through the webinar series designed to stimulate, educate and provide industry insight to members who strive to remain on the cusp of the industry.
Each session will delve into how participants can effectively and efficiently utilize the Vacation.com marketing tools to boost their agency's profits.
The dates for other industry executives appearing in the series are:
Aug. 26 – Dan Hanrahan, president, and Dondra Ritzenthaler, senior vice president, sales, Celebrity Cruises;
September – Paul Allen, vice president, Sales, Holland America Line;
October – Steve Gorga, president and CEO, Travel Impressions;
November – Jan Swartz, senior vice president, Customer Service and Sales, Princess Cruises.
For more information, visit www.agentnet.com/aac.
Each month Vacation.com brings high-ranking executives from preferred suppliers directly to members' desktops through the webinar series designed to stimulate, educate and provide industry insight to members who strive to remain on the cusp of the industry.
Each session will delve into how participants can effectively and efficiently utilize the Vacation.com marketing tools to boost their agency's profits.
The dates for other industry executives appearing in the series are:
Aug. 26 – Dan Hanrahan, president, and Dondra Ritzenthaler, senior vice president, sales, Celebrity Cruises;
September – Paul Allen, vice president, Sales, Holland America Line;
October – Steve Gorga, president and CEO, Travel Impressions;
November – Jan Swartz, senior vice president, Customer Service and Sales, Princess Cruises.
For more information, visit www.agentnet.com/aac.
Wednesday
Travel Agent Education with “Second City”
Norwegian Cruise Line has created four educational videos for NCL University with Second City, the renowned Chicago-based comedy troupe showcased onboard NCL ships.
“Second City Bermuda” is the first to debut on www.ncluniversity.com and highlights NCL’s Bermuda deployment -- sailing from New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Charleston -- and NCL’s shore excursions.
Additional Second City videos highlighting Freestyle 2.0, Freestyle Dining and Freestyle Entertainment will post to NCLU in the coming months.
Home based travel agents can earn Cruise Lines International Association credits, become Freestyle Certified, get the latest information on NCL cruises, share selling tips and compare success stories via online classes, videos and blogs. The Second City video vignettes are hosted by Mike Bradecich, one of the comedy troupe’s resident comics.
Travel partners earn extra credit points toward their Freestyle Certification when viewing and taking a short quiz on the video.
In the videos, Bradecich travels throughout the ship pointing out all of NCL’s Freestyle 2.0 enhancements, dining options, stateroom amenities and onboard activities with a lighthearted twist.
To view the video, visit http://ncluniversity.com/bermudavideo.aspx.
“Second City Bermuda” is the first to debut on www.ncluniversity.com and highlights NCL’s Bermuda deployment -- sailing from New York, Boston, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Charleston -- and NCL’s shore excursions.
Additional Second City videos highlighting Freestyle 2.0, Freestyle Dining and Freestyle Entertainment will post to NCLU in the coming months.
Home based travel agents can earn Cruise Lines International Association credits, become Freestyle Certified, get the latest information on NCL cruises, share selling tips and compare success stories via online classes, videos and blogs. The Second City video vignettes are hosted by Mike Bradecich, one of the comedy troupe’s resident comics.
Travel partners earn extra credit points toward their Freestyle Certification when viewing and taking a short quiz on the video.
In the videos, Bradecich travels throughout the ship pointing out all of NCL’s Freestyle 2.0 enhancements, dining options, stateroom amenities and onboard activities with a lighthearted twist.
To view the video, visit http://ncluniversity.com/bermudavideo.aspx.
“Five-Star Academy” For Travel Agents
Celebrity Cruises is launching its new “Celebrity Five-Star Academy,” an online training program that certifies travel agents to become experts in selling Celebrity’s cruise vacations. The multi-tiered program will launch in stages, each named with the number of stars earned by successfully completing it.
The first, or “One-Star,” level will kick off Wednesday’s launch. Agents who participate will learn about and be tested on an overview of Celebrity’s history, fleet, guests, destinations and services. Travel agents who complete the training and score over 80 percent on its tests will earn the designation of being a “Celebrity One-Star Agent.”
The second and third levels, launching in October and November, will cover more detailed aspects of the Celebrity brand, including dining, accommodations, Star Treatment, spa services, and specific ports of call.
Levels four and five will follow, consisting of training on all the tools Celebrity offers travel agents in the areas of business development and selling the line’s cruise vacations.
As travel agent partners successfully complete each of the first four levels, they can print a certificate noting their designation as a Celebrity One-Star, Two-Star, Three-Star, or Four-Star Agent. Those travel agents who go on to complete the fifth level will be designated a “Celebrity Five-Star Agent.”
Their travel agency will earn status as a “Celebrity Five-Star Agency” and will be featured in Celebrity’s online travel agent locator tool. “Five-Star Agents” will receive vouchers for various tools that they can use to help to increase their business, including a logo for use in their marketing materials.
“Five-Star Agents” will also be eligible to win cruises, co-op funds and training opportunities for themselves and/or their agency. To register, visit www.celebrity5staracademy.com.
The first, or “One-Star,” level will kick off Wednesday’s launch. Agents who participate will learn about and be tested on an overview of Celebrity’s history, fleet, guests, destinations and services. Travel agents who complete the training and score over 80 percent on its tests will earn the designation of being a “Celebrity One-Star Agent.”
The second and third levels, launching in October and November, will cover more detailed aspects of the Celebrity brand, including dining, accommodations, Star Treatment, spa services, and specific ports of call.
Levels four and five will follow, consisting of training on all the tools Celebrity offers travel agents in the areas of business development and selling the line’s cruise vacations.
As travel agent partners successfully complete each of the first four levels, they can print a certificate noting their designation as a Celebrity One-Star, Two-Star, Three-Star, or Four-Star Agent. Those travel agents who go on to complete the fifth level will be designated a “Celebrity Five-Star Agent.”
Their travel agency will earn status as a “Celebrity Five-Star Agency” and will be featured in Celebrity’s online travel agent locator tool. “Five-Star Agents” will receive vouchers for various tools that they can use to help to increase their business, including a logo for use in their marketing materials.
“Five-Star Agents” will also be eligible to win cruises, co-op funds and training opportunities for themselves and/or their agency. To register, visit www.celebrity5staracademy.com.
Tuesday
FREE Cruise for Home Based Travel Agents
Crystal Cruises has set two promotions enabling home based travel agents to earn a free Crystal cruise for two on many remaining 2008 and most 2009 worldwide departures.
Home based travel agents selling three staterooms on Crystal Symphony’s 2008 New England/Canada cruises or three staterooms on Crystal Symphony’s 2009 China/Japan and Southeast Asia cruises can enjoy a free cruise in a stateroom with verandah.
Crystal is also providing travel specialists with additional incentives. The company is offering the third berth free and lower starting fares on 2008 New England/Canada cruises, as well as a two-category upgrade, $2,000-per-person penthouse savings, and Crystal Family Memories group package (one free berth for 10 guests) on China/Japan cruises.
Two-category upgrades and Crystal Family Memories package are also offered for its Southeast Asia cruise. Crystal’s 2008 Canada/New England season offers three 11-day cruises departing from either New York or Montreal on Sept. 16, Sept. 27 and Oct. 8; one 10-day cruise departs from Montreal on Oct. 19.
The China/Japan cruises are set for March 27 from Hong Kong to Beijing and April 5 from Beijing to Hong Kong. The 15-day inclusive vacations offer a 12-day cruise and a three-day Beijing package featuring sightseeing, hotel accommodations and meals. The 11-day Southeast Asia cruise departs from Hong Kong to Singapore on April 20.
“Our promotions are designed to assists agents in increasing their business by making the selling process and the value more compelling,” said Bill Smith, Crystal’s senior vice president-sales and marketing.
“Sell Three, Sail Free provides agents with a strong incentive to sell Crystal, and also educates them on the finer nuances of Crystal with a rewarding firsthand onboard experience.” For details on the promotions, visit www.crystalcruises.com/agent. For other information, call 800-446-6620 or access CruiseBuilder at https://book.crystalcruises.com/.
Home based travel agents selling three staterooms on Crystal Symphony’s 2008 New England/Canada cruises or three staterooms on Crystal Symphony’s 2009 China/Japan and Southeast Asia cruises can enjoy a free cruise in a stateroom with verandah.
Crystal is also providing travel specialists with additional incentives. The company is offering the third berth free and lower starting fares on 2008 New England/Canada cruises, as well as a two-category upgrade, $2,000-per-person penthouse savings, and Crystal Family Memories group package (one free berth for 10 guests) on China/Japan cruises.
Two-category upgrades and Crystal Family Memories package are also offered for its Southeast Asia cruise. Crystal’s 2008 Canada/New England season offers three 11-day cruises departing from either New York or Montreal on Sept. 16, Sept. 27 and Oct. 8; one 10-day cruise departs from Montreal on Oct. 19.
The China/Japan cruises are set for March 27 from Hong Kong to Beijing and April 5 from Beijing to Hong Kong. The 15-day inclusive vacations offer a 12-day cruise and a three-day Beijing package featuring sightseeing, hotel accommodations and meals. The 11-day Southeast Asia cruise departs from Hong Kong to Singapore on April 20.
“Our promotions are designed to assists agents in increasing their business by making the selling process and the value more compelling,” said Bill Smith, Crystal’s senior vice president-sales and marketing.
“Sell Three, Sail Free provides agents with a strong incentive to sell Crystal, and also educates them on the finer nuances of Crystal with a rewarding firsthand onboard experience.” For details on the promotions, visit www.crystalcruises.com/agent. For other information, call 800-446-6620 or access CruiseBuilder at https://book.crystalcruises.com/.
Alaska Movie Night Kit for Agents
Princess Cruises has introduced a unique “Alaska Movie Night Kit” for agents, designed to get their clients excited about taking an Alaska cruise-tour.
The kit, which is built around showing the award-winning “Heart of Alaska” film, offers agents specially designed tools to add a new dimension to the traditional cruise night.
The movie kit includes a variety of materials to help agents host an event. Not only do they get a copy of Princess’ “Heart of Alaska” video to screen for their clients, but they also get a PowerPoint presentation, posters and flyers, an Alaska marketing guide, and extra copies of “The Heart of Alaska” to give away as door prizes.
‘The Heart of Alaska’ is a spectacular film that captivates viewers, and we also include lots of information in the kit to make sure agents have all they need to increase their bookings of our Alaska cruise-tours.”
“The Heart of Alaska” is a documentary that showcases the Princess cruise-tour experience by depicting the land, wildlife and people of Alaska with dramatic visuals and music. The 26-minute film was recently awarded a “Best Cinematography” Award at the New York Independent Film and Video Festival. For more information on the movie kit, call 800-421-1700 or visit www.onesourcecruises.com.
The kit, which is built around showing the award-winning “Heart of Alaska” film, offers agents specially designed tools to add a new dimension to the traditional cruise night.
The movie kit includes a variety of materials to help agents host an event. Not only do they get a copy of Princess’ “Heart of Alaska” video to screen for their clients, but they also get a PowerPoint presentation, posters and flyers, an Alaska marketing guide, and extra copies of “The Heart of Alaska” to give away as door prizes.
‘The Heart of Alaska’ is a spectacular film that captivates viewers, and we also include lots of information in the kit to make sure agents have all they need to increase their bookings of our Alaska cruise-tours.”
“The Heart of Alaska” is a documentary that showcases the Princess cruise-tour experience by depicting the land, wildlife and people of Alaska with dramatic visuals and music. The 26-minute film was recently awarded a “Best Cinematography” Award at the New York Independent Film and Video Festival. For more information on the movie kit, call 800-421-1700 or visit www.onesourcecruises.com.
Bonus Commission from Collette Tours
Collette Vacations is offering travel agents extra commission months, as part of its Agent Focus campaign, which started in 2007. Effective immediately, preferred agents who book clients for travel Jan. 1 to Feb. 15, and August 2009 will earn 20 percent commission. Non-preferred agents booking clients for travel during those same periods will earn 18 percent. For more information, call 800-340-5158 or visit www.collettevacations.com
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