For a smoother ride, try a bigger ship, they have less movement. The closer your cabin is to the center of the ship, front to back axis and top to botom has the smother ride. In other words, don't pick higher decks, get one in the middle, deck 6 on a 12-deck ship. That way the floor may slant forward and backward, but it doesn't actually move up and down or forward and backward.
Fresh air helps too, so get a balcony. Seeing the horizon also helps, so leave the curtains open during the day when you're in your cabin, and sit where you can see the horizon when on deck.
Try drinking ginger ale and bitters. It works.
Try to stay away from foods with a strong odor, as well as the greasy foods. Items such as egg salad and tuna salad can make a queasy stomach rebel.
Take Bonine (meclizine hydrochloride) 24 hours before going onboard the ship
Learn How to Become A Travel Agent... Open your own Home Based Travel Agency
Thursday
Cruises in the Steps of Apostle Paul
The important role that Greece has played in history is widely known; philosophy, the arts, medicine and democracy. But there is a great page in the history of Christianity written in Greece.
Come with us and experience up close and in comfort the places where Apostle Paul lived and preached. Now Steps of Paul Coastal Cruises has made it easy to travel through the history of Christianity with well-researched itineraries, highly educated guides, our actors and singers, all in safety and comfort.
Choose from a variety of coastal cruise programs in Greece, Turkey, the Holy Lands and Italy or Charter your own Ship. Be pampered by the ship’s staff, explore new destinations, extend your holidays by choosing one of our Pre & Post cruise City Packages and gather along with other people by reaching out to each other and enjoy the joy of fellowship, this is what makes us the Cruise Line of our Hearts!
Click Here
Come with us and experience up close and in comfort the places where Apostle Paul lived and preached. Now Steps of Paul Coastal Cruises has made it easy to travel through the history of Christianity with well-researched itineraries, highly educated guides, our actors and singers, all in safety and comfort.
Choose from a variety of coastal cruise programs in Greece, Turkey, the Holy Lands and Italy or Charter your own Ship. Be pampered by the ship’s staff, explore new destinations, extend your holidays by choosing one of our Pre & Post cruise City Packages and gather along with other people by reaching out to each other and enjoy the joy of fellowship, this is what makes us the Cruise Line of our Hearts!
Click Here
Wednesday
Seminar at Sea
GROUP SALES MADE EASY (3 hours) - 15 CreditsThis program demonstrates how to develop group business as a profit center covering the following subjects: identifying groups and their characteristics, sources for lead development, marketing to groups, working with group leaders, analyzing group potential, pricing and promotional budgeting.
SELLING TO SPECIAL INTERESTS – NICHE MARKETS (3 hours) - 15 CreditsMost of us know how to sell to that mass-market client, but what about customers with highly specialized interests? Is there a place in cruising for them? In this interactive seminar you’ll learn dozens of strategies to help you reach and satisfy niche clients. You’ll see how both mainstream and specialized cruise products can satisfy their needs. And you’ll explore the profile of six common niche client types and precisely what they want from a vacation travel experience.
CUSTOMER RELATIONS MANAGEMENT: MADE EASY (3 hours) - 15 CreditsWhat's the hottest topic in travel these days? It's CRM, or Customer Relationship Management. In this seminar you'll learn dozens of strategies -- technological and otherwise -- to help you understand and profit from your customers, as well as reinforce the whole relationship you have with them.
CARNIVAL MEMBER LINE TRAINING - 15 Credits
PARTICIPATION IN CLIA SEMINARS AT SEA - 10 Bonus Credits
EARN UP TO 70 CREDITS
Aboard The Carnival Liberty
For more information or to place your registration request, Click here
SELLING TO SPECIAL INTERESTS – NICHE MARKETS (3 hours) - 15 CreditsMost of us know how to sell to that mass-market client, but what about customers with highly specialized interests? Is there a place in cruising for them? In this interactive seminar you’ll learn dozens of strategies to help you reach and satisfy niche clients. You’ll see how both mainstream and specialized cruise products can satisfy their needs. And you’ll explore the profile of six common niche client types and precisely what they want from a vacation travel experience.
CUSTOMER RELATIONS MANAGEMENT: MADE EASY (3 hours) - 15 CreditsWhat's the hottest topic in travel these days? It's CRM, or Customer Relationship Management. In this seminar you'll learn dozens of strategies -- technological and otherwise -- to help you understand and profit from your customers, as well as reinforce the whole relationship you have with them.
CARNIVAL MEMBER LINE TRAINING - 15 Credits
PARTICIPATION IN CLIA SEMINARS AT SEA - 10 Bonus Credits
EARN UP TO 70 CREDITS
Aboard The Carnival Liberty
For more information or to place your registration request, Click here
Tuesday
Mexico 72 Hour Sale!
Great Prices to Cancun, Cozumel, Vallarta, and Los CabosFor a limited time onlyRoundtrip Air from $179.99!
3 nights All-Inclusive air/hotel from$299.99
Bookings: Now - May 29thTravel: Now - August
Hurry Sale Ends Soon!
Go to the link below to find out more.
72 Hour Sale Pricing
3 nights All-Inclusive air/hotel from$299.99
Bookings: Now - May 29thTravel: Now - August
Hurry Sale Ends Soon!
Go to the link below to find out more.
72 Hour Sale Pricing
Tip of the Day
By: Richard Earls "TravelReacearch On Line"
Take advantage of signature line in your emails.
Here is a very simple little tip to use to inspire your clients and to make them take note.
No doubt, you take much of your knowledge for granted, but there are easy ways to share it…
one idea is to frequently update your signature line in your emails or a section of your website each week with your own special travel tip – either learned from personal experience, formal education, or what you read in a magazine this month… “Reuse plastic dry cleaner covers to fold clothes in suitcases and prevent creases,” or try something more off-the-wall, like “Visit MizPee.com to find the closest, cleanest, public restrooms in popular US cities.”
Whatever the tip, make it something notable, maybe even a bit off the wall. You can find lots of great ideas from TRO's website and Travelgram. Clients will begin to look for it each time they visit your site or receive an email from you.
Grow Professionally! - Want to discuss how to succeed with other travel professionals? Click here to join more than 5,000 of your peers in TRO's Community - an agent-only forum for serious travel professionals.
Take advantage of signature line in your emails.
Here is a very simple little tip to use to inspire your clients and to make them take note.
No doubt, you take much of your knowledge for granted, but there are easy ways to share it…
one idea is to frequently update your signature line in your emails or a section of your website each week with your own special travel tip – either learned from personal experience, formal education, or what you read in a magazine this month… “Reuse plastic dry cleaner covers to fold clothes in suitcases and prevent creases,” or try something more off-the-wall, like “Visit MizPee.com to find the closest, cleanest, public restrooms in popular US cities.”
Whatever the tip, make it something notable, maybe even a bit off the wall. You can find lots of great ideas from TRO's website and Travelgram. Clients will begin to look for it each time they visit your site or receive an email from you.
Grow Professionally! - Want to discuss how to succeed with other travel professionals? Click here to join more than 5,000 of your peers in TRO's Community - an agent-only forum for serious travel professionals.
7 Top Deals for Overseas
By Marshall Loeb, Seattle Times
If there's an economic slowdown in your life, but you're not ready to give up on an overseas vacation completely, there are places to go and things to see without breaking the bank.
Consider these seven destinations (highlighted in Money magazine) where the greenback is worth a lot more than the paper it's printed on.
Argentina:
Why spend thousands in France when you can find the same vibe here? Buenos Aires (aka the Paris of South America) has embarked on a dramatic turnaround since the 2001 collapse of the Argentine peso — but the place is still amazingly cheap. Chic hotel rooms, nights out dancing and fabulous food and wine cost half what they do across the Atlantic. A huge steak dinner is rarely more than $25.
Bali:
With the dollar holding steady against the Indonesian rupiah over the past year, Bali has become one of the best island values in Asia. Luxury villas nestled in lush hillsides can be had for $100 to $200 a night. Simple bungalows go for much less.
Costa Rica:
Americans now have about a third more buying power in this natural wonderland than they did five years ago — a dollar equals around 500 Costa Rican colones today vs. 360 then.
Mexico:
With the peso/dollar exchange rate steady over the past couple of years, Mexico remains a prime bargain destination. The hottest area now is arguably Mexico City, booming with new museums, a historical architectural revival and a vibrant music and arts scene.
Morocco:
Though the Moroccan dirham has strengthened a bit against the dollar in the past year, in the ancient cities of Casablanca, Fez and Marrakech many cafe meals still cost less than $5. Classic budget hotels in atmospheric narrow streets cost around $30 a night. Plenty of luxury hotels, too.
Panama:
This small Central American country boasts mountains, rain forests, 1,500 miles of coast (Caribbean or Pacific) and, of course, the magnificent canal. Forget exchange rates: Panama's currency, the balboa, is pegged at parity with the U.S. dollar, and the dollar itself is accepted virtually everywhere.
Vietnam :
There's never been a better time to visit one of Asia's most fascinating countries, with pristine beaches and unique crafts. The dollar goes further against the Vietnamese dong than it did three years ago. You may have enough left to splurge on one of the luxury hotels cropping up on beaches and in cities.
If there's an economic slowdown in your life, but you're not ready to give up on an overseas vacation completely, there are places to go and things to see without breaking the bank.
Consider these seven destinations (highlighted in Money magazine) where the greenback is worth a lot more than the paper it's printed on.
Argentina:
Why spend thousands in France when you can find the same vibe here? Buenos Aires (aka the Paris of South America) has embarked on a dramatic turnaround since the 2001 collapse of the Argentine peso — but the place is still amazingly cheap. Chic hotel rooms, nights out dancing and fabulous food and wine cost half what they do across the Atlantic. A huge steak dinner is rarely more than $25.
Bali:
With the dollar holding steady against the Indonesian rupiah over the past year, Bali has become one of the best island values in Asia. Luxury villas nestled in lush hillsides can be had for $100 to $200 a night. Simple bungalows go for much less.
Costa Rica:
Americans now have about a third more buying power in this natural wonderland than they did five years ago — a dollar equals around 500 Costa Rican colones today vs. 360 then.
Mexico:
With the peso/dollar exchange rate steady over the past couple of years, Mexico remains a prime bargain destination. The hottest area now is arguably Mexico City, booming with new museums, a historical architectural revival and a vibrant music and arts scene.
Morocco:
Though the Moroccan dirham has strengthened a bit against the dollar in the past year, in the ancient cities of Casablanca, Fez and Marrakech many cafe meals still cost less than $5. Classic budget hotels in atmospheric narrow streets cost around $30 a night. Plenty of luxury hotels, too.
Panama:
This small Central American country boasts mountains, rain forests, 1,500 miles of coast (Caribbean or Pacific) and, of course, the magnificent canal. Forget exchange rates: Panama's currency, the balboa, is pegged at parity with the U.S. dollar, and the dollar itself is accepted virtually everywhere.
Vietnam :
There's never been a better time to visit one of Asia's most fascinating countries, with pristine beaches and unique crafts. The dollar goes further against the Vietnamese dong than it did three years ago. You may have enough left to splurge on one of the luxury hotels cropping up on beaches and in cities.
10 Bargain Summer Destinations
BY ARTHUR FROMMER
King Features Syndicate
There's still time to select a summer vacation destination. And when you do, you might consider one of 10 bargain-priced destinations for which arrangements can still be made. (I'm indebted to my daughter, guidebook writer Pauline Frommer, for drawing my attention to some of these; she has also contributed in part to this column.)
1. Berkeley Springs, W.Va. It was America's first spa city (visited, among others, by George Washington), and it's regaining that reputation today by supporting six excellent -- but reasonably priced -- spas, as well as an army of massage therapists and other ''bodyworkers.'' At the historic Bath House in Berkeley Springs State Park, you can soak in 102-degree thermal waters and then undergo a half-hour Swedish massage for a total of $40. Accommodations are cheap (from $70 per room in Berkeley Springs itself, from $45 in nearby Martinsburg), and other activities include shopping, hiking, golf and horseback riding.
2. Rockland, Maine (on the rocky mid-coast of that state). This is the port city for famous Windjammers (sailing ships), with a blossoming arts scene centered on the superb Farnsworth Museum (Andrew Wyeth, Louise Nevelson) and several other galleries. There's fine dining at numerous venues and inexpensive accommodations (as little as $85 a room in high season) that make the town a good jumping-off point for visits to the pricier Kennebunkport, Bar Harbor and Camden.
3. Boundary Waters Canoe Area of northern Minnesota. A million acres of wilderness crisscrossed by 1,300 miles of canoeable waters for nature lovers and fishermen. Outfitters provide you with the canoe, a tent and enough food for your stay, for as little as $70 a day for two to four people.
4. Wisconsin Dells, Wisc. Waterpark capital of the world, with more than 20 (many indoors) -- a sure kid-pleaser -- plus acres of other family attractions, like riding stables, mini golf, rock-climbing and fishing. Day passes to the water parks are $30 to $35 per person. While room rates at the big resort hotels can be steep, less expensive motels abound, with rates starting at just $40 a night.
5. The Oregon Coast, including Yachats. In a rental car driving along the entire Pacific Coast of Oregon you'll pass one of the least developed shorelines in America. As you drive north, you have multiple state parks on your right; and stupendous vistas of the Pacific on your left. Though Cannon Beach is a favorite destination for restaurants and entertainment, I like the arty town of Yachats, with its excellent restaurants (serving Dungeness crabs), its sophisticated atmosphere at low cost.
6. The Dominican Republic. You know about this one. It is undoubtedly the cheapest Caribbean destination, and numerous tour operators will send you there for an all-inclusive weeklong stay (round-trip air from most U.S. cities, hotel for seven nights, three meals a day, all drinks and entertainment), in July and August for about $900 per adult, with children staying and eating for free.
7. The Mayan Riviera, south of Cancun, Mexico. Along this Caribbean coast of Mexico, so many new hotels have been completed recently that price competition is fierce, and rates resemble those of the Dominican Republic. You have white-sand beaches, Mayan ruins and a colorful Mexican setting.
8. Newfoundland, Canada. Undervisited by Americans, it's refreshingly priced and wonderfully underdeveloped. From its coast, you see icebergs, whales and puffins. In Gros Morne National Park, you have fine bird-watching, fishing and hiking.
At the many tiny B&Bs that dot the region, you often find rooms for as little as $50 a night.
9. Peru. It's much more than Cuzco and Machu Picchu. It's Puno and Lake Titicaca, the elegant town of Arequipa, the Colca Valley with its giant condors. Accommodations across Peru are largely budget-priced ($30 a night on average), thanks to the backpacker hordes.
10. Bulgaria. Black Sea beaches, ancient monasteries and perfectly preserved medieval villages. Lodgings can sometimes be had for $50 to $100, and seafood meals are just $7 and $8 in this cheapest country of Eastern Europe.
King Features Syndicate
There's still time to select a summer vacation destination. And when you do, you might consider one of 10 bargain-priced destinations for which arrangements can still be made. (I'm indebted to my daughter, guidebook writer Pauline Frommer, for drawing my attention to some of these; she has also contributed in part to this column.)
1. Berkeley Springs, W.Va. It was America's first spa city (visited, among others, by George Washington), and it's regaining that reputation today by supporting six excellent -- but reasonably priced -- spas, as well as an army of massage therapists and other ''bodyworkers.'' At the historic Bath House in Berkeley Springs State Park, you can soak in 102-degree thermal waters and then undergo a half-hour Swedish massage for a total of $40. Accommodations are cheap (from $70 per room in Berkeley Springs itself, from $45 in nearby Martinsburg), and other activities include shopping, hiking, golf and horseback riding.
2. Rockland, Maine (on the rocky mid-coast of that state). This is the port city for famous Windjammers (sailing ships), with a blossoming arts scene centered on the superb Farnsworth Museum (Andrew Wyeth, Louise Nevelson) and several other galleries. There's fine dining at numerous venues and inexpensive accommodations (as little as $85 a room in high season) that make the town a good jumping-off point for visits to the pricier Kennebunkport, Bar Harbor and Camden.
3. Boundary Waters Canoe Area of northern Minnesota. A million acres of wilderness crisscrossed by 1,300 miles of canoeable waters for nature lovers and fishermen. Outfitters provide you with the canoe, a tent and enough food for your stay, for as little as $70 a day for two to four people.
4. Wisconsin Dells, Wisc. Waterpark capital of the world, with more than 20 (many indoors) -- a sure kid-pleaser -- plus acres of other family attractions, like riding stables, mini golf, rock-climbing and fishing. Day passes to the water parks are $30 to $35 per person. While room rates at the big resort hotels can be steep, less expensive motels abound, with rates starting at just $40 a night.
5. The Oregon Coast, including Yachats. In a rental car driving along the entire Pacific Coast of Oregon you'll pass one of the least developed shorelines in America. As you drive north, you have multiple state parks on your right; and stupendous vistas of the Pacific on your left. Though Cannon Beach is a favorite destination for restaurants and entertainment, I like the arty town of Yachats, with its excellent restaurants (serving Dungeness crabs), its sophisticated atmosphere at low cost.
6. The Dominican Republic. You know about this one. It is undoubtedly the cheapest Caribbean destination, and numerous tour operators will send you there for an all-inclusive weeklong stay (round-trip air from most U.S. cities, hotel for seven nights, three meals a day, all drinks and entertainment), in July and August for about $900 per adult, with children staying and eating for free.
7. The Mayan Riviera, south of Cancun, Mexico. Along this Caribbean coast of Mexico, so many new hotels have been completed recently that price competition is fierce, and rates resemble those of the Dominican Republic. You have white-sand beaches, Mayan ruins and a colorful Mexican setting.
8. Newfoundland, Canada. Undervisited by Americans, it's refreshingly priced and wonderfully underdeveloped. From its coast, you see icebergs, whales and puffins. In Gros Morne National Park, you have fine bird-watching, fishing and hiking.
At the many tiny B&Bs that dot the region, you often find rooms for as little as $50 a night.
9. Peru. It's much more than Cuzco and Machu Picchu. It's Puno and Lake Titicaca, the elegant town of Arequipa, the Colca Valley with its giant condors. Accommodations across Peru are largely budget-priced ($30 a night on average), thanks to the backpacker hordes.
10. Bulgaria. Black Sea beaches, ancient monasteries and perfectly preserved medieval villages. Lodgings can sometimes be had for $50 to $100, and seafood meals are just $7 and $8 in this cheapest country of Eastern Europe.
Hawaii Air sale
Airlines quietly lowered their prices from Newark to Honolulu to as low as $299 roundtrip-- including taxes! This is more than 50% OFF what we normally see to Hawaii. Book it fast this wont last long.
Friday
Pleasant Holidays Webinar
Attendees have a chance to win an American Express® branded reward card valued at $200.
Pleasant Holidays would like to invite you to a familiarization workshop on its new destinations, products and company updates. During this training, you will learn about the new exotic destinations of Pleasant Holidays and learn about the unlimited booking options you have.
After the training you will realize why booking Pleasant Holidays is the natural choice for exceeding your client’s expectations on their dream vacation.
Pleasant Holidays would like to invite you to a familiarization workshop on its new destinations, products and company updates. During this training, you will learn about the new exotic destinations of Pleasant Holidays and learn about the unlimited booking options you have.
After the training you will realize why booking Pleasant Holidays is the natural choice for exceeding your client’s expectations on their dream vacation.
Topics covered on this discovery will be:
1. What's new in the World of Pleasant Holidays -
2. destinations, products and resorts
3. Costa Rica
4. Caribbean
5. Singapore Airlines Vacations
6. Air/Transportation options
7. Tours and activities
8. Marketing tools
9. How to book new products online and new website enhancements
10. Benefits and services (i.e. TRIP points, commission, etc.)
11. What's on the Pleasant Holidays horizon
Friday May 30th at 1pm EDT Click here to register.
Travel Agent Training for New Agents
Specifically targeted to those who are new to the exciting leisure travel industry, our Home Based Travel Agent Training provides in-depth coverage of the fundamental skills needed for your future success.
Our blended learning program provides students with the best from both traditional Coursework and eLearning solutions and is perfect for the busy professional who wants to engage in quality professional development.
Visit the Agent Advancement Center’s “Leisure University” at www.agentnet.com/AAC to learn more about this exciting new program.
Our blended learning program provides students with the best from both traditional Coursework and eLearning solutions and is perfect for the busy professional who wants to engage in quality professional development.
Visit the Agent Advancement Center’s “Leisure University” at www.agentnet.com/AAC to learn more about this exciting new program.
Thursday
Exceptional Value of European Cruising
North Americans pay for their cruise vacations in advance in U.S. dollars, which provides a buffer for travelers against further fluctuations. In addition, 2008 cruise prices were calculated when the dollar was stronger; this means the cruise passenger already has a price advantage compared to current prices in Europe.
How do cruises compare to land-based vacations in Europe?
In Venice, a typical three-star hotel in July is approximately $200 per night, double occupancy, based on the current exchange rate. A typical four-star property is $450.
One of the best-known luxury hotels is $750 midweek and almost $2,000 on weekends. According to "Frommer's Travel Guide of Italy," the minimum price for a prix fixe dinner in Venice is approximately $30 per person, without wine.
For travelers who want to visit cities other than Venice, the Eurail Select Pass Saver, allowing unlimited travel by train for eight days to three bordering countries, costs $618 per person or $1,320 for a family of three. And, throughout Europe, a Value Added Tax, or VAT, on most purchases can be as high as 20 percent.
Using these average prices, CLIA calculates that an eight-day land-based vacation visiting three countries, including seven nights' double-occupancy accommodations in a three-star hotel, transportation and two meals per person per day, could total $3,116 per couple. An eight-day cruise on a premium cruise line visiting five countries can be found at approximately $2,000 per couple.
How do cruises compare to land-based vacations in Europe?
In Venice, a typical three-star hotel in July is approximately $200 per night, double occupancy, based on the current exchange rate. A typical four-star property is $450.
One of the best-known luxury hotels is $750 midweek and almost $2,000 on weekends. According to "Frommer's Travel Guide of Italy," the minimum price for a prix fixe dinner in Venice is approximately $30 per person, without wine.
For travelers who want to visit cities other than Venice, the Eurail Select Pass Saver, allowing unlimited travel by train for eight days to three bordering countries, costs $618 per person or $1,320 for a family of three. And, throughout Europe, a Value Added Tax, or VAT, on most purchases can be as high as 20 percent.
Using these average prices, CLIA calculates that an eight-day land-based vacation visiting three countries, including seven nights' double-occupancy accommodations in a three-star hotel, transportation and two meals per person per day, could total $3,116 per couple. An eight-day cruise on a premium cruise line visiting five countries can be found at approximately $2,000 per couple.
American to charge $15 for first checked bag
American Airlines will start charging $15 for the first checked bag, cut domestic flights and lay off possibly thousands of workers as it grapples with record-high fuel prices.
Expect the other airlines to do the same shortley.
Expect the other airlines to do the same shortley.
Wednesday
Royal Caribbean Travel Agent Guide
Get your FREE copy of Royal Caribbeans Travel Agent Guide. These are the one-stop reference pieces for the agents, containing consolidated destination, itinerary and equipment details along with selling information. Travel Agent Guide 2008-2009
Agent Tip
Read What Your Clients Read.
By: Richard Earls "TravelReacearch On Line"
Subscribing to different consumer magazines that you wouldn’t normally read (not into white-water rafting? Subscribe to National Geographic Adventure; if you are female – subscribe to Men’s Journal) is a great way to stimulate the creative "right side" of your brain to help develop new marketing ideas.
Magazines often represent the work product of some of the best and brightest minds in marketing and advertising. The millions of dollars that companies spend in advertising creative can give you some ideas of your own.
These are the same periodicals your clients are reading. It helps to occassionally put yourself in your client’s shoes and flip through a new magazine to see what’s influencing and inspiring them.
For example, O, the Oprah magazine, has a monthly printed feature called “Breathing Space” that captures a unique and amazing setting, somewhere around the world. Readers are invited to stare at the image and absorb its beauty.
As a travel agent, you have the opportunity to take it one step further and suggest a visit in person. Take a hint from cosmetics counters nationwide, and remove these pages from a magazine and place them on a visible desk in your office, or in a portfolio.
Magazines of this quality offer additional credibility and suggestibility when you present them along with your own proposals. Even a weekly celebrity magazine will tell you who is honeymooning where and keep you up to date on the hottest spas and restaurants. It’s not a bad way to spend a few minutes a week, and it lets you take the right-side of your brain for a bit of exercise!
Grow Professionally! - Want to discuss how to succeed with other travel professionals? Click here to join more than 5,000 of your peers in TRO's Community - an agent-only forum for serious travel professionals.
By: Richard Earls "TravelReacearch On Line"
Subscribing to different consumer magazines that you wouldn’t normally read (not into white-water rafting? Subscribe to National Geographic Adventure; if you are female – subscribe to Men’s Journal) is a great way to stimulate the creative "right side" of your brain to help develop new marketing ideas.
Magazines often represent the work product of some of the best and brightest minds in marketing and advertising. The millions of dollars that companies spend in advertising creative can give you some ideas of your own.
These are the same periodicals your clients are reading. It helps to occassionally put yourself in your client’s shoes and flip through a new magazine to see what’s influencing and inspiring them.
For example, O, the Oprah magazine, has a monthly printed feature called “Breathing Space” that captures a unique and amazing setting, somewhere around the world. Readers are invited to stare at the image and absorb its beauty.
As a travel agent, you have the opportunity to take it one step further and suggest a visit in person. Take a hint from cosmetics counters nationwide, and remove these pages from a magazine and place them on a visible desk in your office, or in a portfolio.
Magazines of this quality offer additional credibility and suggestibility when you present them along with your own proposals. Even a weekly celebrity magazine will tell you who is honeymooning where and keep you up to date on the hottest spas and restaurants. It’s not a bad way to spend a few minutes a week, and it lets you take the right-side of your brain for a bit of exercise!
Grow Professionally! - Want to discuss how to succeed with other travel professionals? Click here to join more than 5,000 of your peers in TRO's Community - an agent-only forum for serious travel professionals.
Monday
Good Travel Gift Ideas
What: Gin Gins Ginger Candy
Why: Motion sickness
Who: Kids of all ages
How much: A couple bucks
Children are not immune to motion sickness. There are a thousand different sea-sickness remedies, and everyone you ask will tell you something different. That's because different remedies work for different folks, and the same is true for kids. Talk to your pediatrician about any medications you are considering packing for your child, and throw a bag of Gin Gins in your suitcase. Ginger has long been known to aid in motion sickness (not to mention morning sickness, for all you pregnant cruisers), it's perfectly safe for kids, it won't make them drowsy and it's delicious! There are lots of companies who make ginger candy and crystallized ginger products, but the Ginger People at Royal Pacific have the best variety and taste.
What: Who's Shoes ID Tags
Why: Identifies your child if he is lost or hurt
Who: Young, mobile children
How much: $8
No parent wants to imagine the possibility of one of their children becoming lost at any point during a cruise, but the fact is, kids wander. Even at sea. I like these tags, made by Who's Shoes, because they are inexpensive, durable and can be easily attached to your child's shoe. Personal information is protected inside the ID tag, so you don't need to worry about a stranger calling out your child's name. You can put your cabin number, name, and other personal info on the tag, so if your child loses you, adults coming to his aid can more easily locate you. Plus, Who's Shoes donates a portion of all sales to the Laura Recovery Center for missing children.
Why: Motion sickness
Who: Kids of all ages
How much: A couple bucks
Children are not immune to motion sickness. There are a thousand different sea-sickness remedies, and everyone you ask will tell you something different. That's because different remedies work for different folks, and the same is true for kids. Talk to your pediatrician about any medications you are considering packing for your child, and throw a bag of Gin Gins in your suitcase. Ginger has long been known to aid in motion sickness (not to mention morning sickness, for all you pregnant cruisers), it's perfectly safe for kids, it won't make them drowsy and it's delicious! There are lots of companies who make ginger candy and crystallized ginger products, but the Ginger People at Royal Pacific have the best variety and taste.
What: Who's Shoes ID Tags
Why: Identifies your child if he is lost or hurt
Who: Young, mobile children
How much: $8
No parent wants to imagine the possibility of one of their children becoming lost at any point during a cruise, but the fact is, kids wander. Even at sea. I like these tags, made by Who's Shoes, because they are inexpensive, durable and can be easily attached to your child's shoe. Personal information is protected inside the ID tag, so you don't need to worry about a stranger calling out your child's name. You can put your cabin number, name, and other personal info on the tag, so if your child loses you, adults coming to his aid can more easily locate you. Plus, Who's Shoes donates a portion of all sales to the Laura Recovery Center for missing children.
Sunday
BECOME The HUNTED Not The HUNTER!
New Automated program Finds Unlimited Prospects that want More Information about YOUR Travel or Cruise offers and gets Them to CALL You.
This new program can contact up to 15 million clients instantly about Your Travel or Cruise Specials.
Ask your suppliers for Super Specials or one day sales with bonus items like ship board credit or coupons. (Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise line have one day sales.)
Have Potential Customers Actually Calling You.. Within Minutes!
Here's How It Works...
There's no software to download and no hardware. Everything is web based and accessed by using your LOGIN and PASSWORD. It's easy to use.
First you'll record a short message about your Special. Then... click on one of our FREE files of over 15 MILLION phone and email leads & download them in to your new Automatic Voice Broadcasting platform.
Then... press the send button & your Voice Broadcaster will call everyone on the list and deliver your message.
With the right message & the right Travel Special... your phone will ringing off the hook with Red Hot Prospects who are calling you!
So Stop Wasting Your Time Chasing Prospects.
Now you can have prospects chasing you. This is the most time efficient and cost effecting prospecting tool on the market. It's the perfect marriage between the Internet and the Phone.
You have two choices you can buy the program for $500. Phone calls cost .02 per person each time you send a message
Example: To deliver your special to 10,000 people would cost $200.
With a 1% response rate you should get 100 calls, if you sold 10% of the calls you would make 10 sales. (you can call more or less people)
Second Choice: Use my copy of the program for FREE and pay .04 per call instead. 800-619-8646 ask for Paul
If you want more information Click here
This new program can contact up to 15 million clients instantly about Your Travel or Cruise Specials.
Ask your suppliers for Super Specials or one day sales with bonus items like ship board credit or coupons. (Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise line have one day sales.)
Have Potential Customers Actually Calling You.. Within Minutes!
Here's How It Works...
There's no software to download and no hardware. Everything is web based and accessed by using your LOGIN and PASSWORD. It's easy to use.
First you'll record a short message about your Special. Then... click on one of our FREE files of over 15 MILLION phone and email leads & download them in to your new Automatic Voice Broadcasting platform.
Then... press the send button & your Voice Broadcaster will call everyone on the list and deliver your message.
With the right message & the right Travel Special... your phone will ringing off the hook with Red Hot Prospects who are calling you!
So Stop Wasting Your Time Chasing Prospects.
Now you can have prospects chasing you. This is the most time efficient and cost effecting prospecting tool on the market. It's the perfect marriage between the Internet and the Phone.
You have two choices you can buy the program for $500. Phone calls cost .02 per person each time you send a message
Example: To deliver your special to 10,000 people would cost $200.
With a 1% response rate you should get 100 calls, if you sold 10% of the calls you would make 10 sales. (you can call more or less people)
Second Choice: Use my copy of the program for FREE and pay .04 per call instead. 800-619-8646 ask for Paul
If you want more information Click here
Friday
Protect Your Passport
Although you may not realize it, a U.S. passport is a hot commodity. To avoid being a target of crime, don't be too conspicuous with it. Not only do you risk having the passport stolen, but your other identification, credit cards and money as well.
Take it out only when you need to provide it to officials. At all other times keep it on your person. There are several travel accessories which can help keep your personal items safe. Companies like Magellan's and Travel Smith have fanny packs, waist wallets, neck wallets and leg stashes. And for the extremely conscientious, there are even hydro-safe wallets so you can take your passport swimming with you!
Do not leave your passport in checked luggage (but do leave a photocopy of it in your luggage), a handbag or an exposed pocket. If possible, leave your passport in a hotel safe, not in an empty hotel room. One person should never carry all the passports for an entire group. Never lend your passport to anyone, use it as collateral or ask someone to hold it for you
Take it out only when you need to provide it to officials. At all other times keep it on your person. There are several travel accessories which can help keep your personal items safe. Companies like Magellan's and Travel Smith have fanny packs, waist wallets, neck wallets and leg stashes. And for the extremely conscientious, there are even hydro-safe wallets so you can take your passport swimming with you!
Do not leave your passport in checked luggage (but do leave a photocopy of it in your luggage), a handbag or an exposed pocket. If possible, leave your passport in a hotel safe, not in an empty hotel room. One person should never carry all the passports for an entire group. Never lend your passport to anyone, use it as collateral or ask someone to hold it for you
Wednesday
Enchanting Italy Webinar
Collette Vacations invites home based travel Agents on May 20th, 2008, for an online presentation highlighting four Italy tours: Italian Vistas, Reflections of Italy, Rome & the Amalfi Coast and Rome & Florence Holiday.
Log On and Learn More ...This 30 minute presentation, hosted by Michael Comeau, Collette Vacations' Regional Sales Manager, will give you a sneak peek of the locations and inclusions featured on these tours. Italy is a country where romance fills the soul and a truly unique culture surrounds those who visit. From hilltop Tuscan towns to ancient ruins, from delicious food to rich history, your clients are sure to discover "la dolce vita" in Bella Italia!
Join the online presentation!
Date: Tuesday, May 20th, 2008Time Eastern: 2:00pm - 2:30pm Time Central: 1:00pm - 1:30pm Time Mountain: 12:00pm - 12:30pm Time Pacific: 11:00am - 11:30am
Sign Up Here!
Log On and Learn More ...This 30 minute presentation, hosted by Michael Comeau, Collette Vacations' Regional Sales Manager, will give you a sneak peek of the locations and inclusions featured on these tours. Italy is a country where romance fills the soul and a truly unique culture surrounds those who visit. From hilltop Tuscan towns to ancient ruins, from delicious food to rich history, your clients are sure to discover "la dolce vita" in Bella Italia!
Join the online presentation!
Date: Tuesday, May 20th, 2008Time Eastern: 2:00pm - 2:30pm Time Central: 1:00pm - 1:30pm Time Mountain: 12:00pm - 12:30pm Time Pacific: 11:00am - 11:30am
Sign Up Here!
$500 Bonus Commission
Download your FREE $500. bonus commission coupon. From Viking River Cruises. Click Here
FREE Royal Caribbean Agent Guide
These are the one-stop reference pieces for the trade, containing consolidated destination, itinerary and equipment details along with selling information. Click here: Travel Agent Guide 2008-2009
Friday
Carnival has Redesighned it's Website
Carnival Cruise Lines has redesigned its website at www.carnival.com with a host of new features, including enhanced navigation and layout, images and content, and numerous technical advancements designed to make users' online experiences easier and more informative.
Highlighting the next generation of Carnival.com are dozens of new videos and virtual tours, along with upgraded images and content showcasing all 22 of Fun Ships.
Also included are upgrades to sections focusing on various aspects of the Carnival vacation such as dining, spa, youth programs, destinations and shore excursions.
The improved site features an enriched Gifts and Services section that allows visitors to purchase items that can be delivered to guests' staterooms prior to their cruise. The section also includes detailed product descriptions for special occasion cakes, wines, flowers, stateroom decorations and wedding and romance gift packages.
There's also an updated section where first-time cruisers and visitors can sign up for Carnival news and information via both email and RSS feeds. The new site has a more detailed FAQ section, an enhanced site search engine, and live feeds featuring Carnival news headlines.
The site also features a higher resolution that provides a better platform for multi-media components, greater compatibility across all Web browsers, and optimized Web pages for visitors who access the site via hand-held phones and other communication devices. For more information, visit www.carnival.com.
Highlighting the next generation of Carnival.com are dozens of new videos and virtual tours, along with upgraded images and content showcasing all 22 of Fun Ships.
Also included are upgrades to sections focusing on various aspects of the Carnival vacation such as dining, spa, youth programs, destinations and shore excursions.
The improved site features an enriched Gifts and Services section that allows visitors to purchase items that can be delivered to guests' staterooms prior to their cruise. The section also includes detailed product descriptions for special occasion cakes, wines, flowers, stateroom decorations and wedding and romance gift packages.
There's also an updated section where first-time cruisers and visitors can sign up for Carnival news and information via both email and RSS feeds. The new site has a more detailed FAQ section, an enhanced site search engine, and live feeds featuring Carnival news headlines.
The site also features a higher resolution that provides a better platform for multi-media components, greater compatibility across all Web browsers, and optimized Web pages for visitors who access the site via hand-held phones and other communication devices. For more information, visit www.carnival.com.
Thursday
NCL Webinar on May 9
There's so much going on at NCL and this is your chance to get the Inside Scoop! Join an exclusive webinar, hosted by NCL Vice President, Industry Relations, Terri Burke, and Wayne Peyreau, National Director of Business Development, to learn about our new 3/4 day cruises, the latest on Partnership 2.0 & Freestyle 2.0, as well as late-breaking news about our next-generation NCL ships... F3!
Did we mention the free cruises?
Everyone participating in the webinar post-event survey will have an opportunity to win one of TEN free cruises!
(Visit the following web page for terms and conditions: http://167.118.200.101/nclweb/cruiser/cmsPages.html?pageId=SkyTermsConditions
Here's what's in it for you....
1. Inside scoop on the industry's newest 3/4 day cruises!
2. A new "Kid's Sail Free" offer for the summer!
3. All resulting in incremental bookings for you!
4. A chance to win one of TEN free cruises!
DURING THE CALL WE WILL ALSO SHARE PHOTOS AND NEWS ON NCL'S NEXT GENERATION OF FREESTYLE CRUISING SHIPS... F3. YOU'LL BE AMONG THE FIRST TO HEAR ABOUT ALL THE FANTASTIC INNOVATIONS THIS NEW CLASS OF SHIP WILL BRING.
Don't miss out! Register today to attend the online session... invitations are limited to the first 1000 travel partners who respond to this invitation!
Title: Get the Inside Scoop!
New 3 & 4 Day Cruises, Freestyle/Partnership 2.0 Updates and New F3 Ships
Date: Friday, May 9, 2008
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM EDT
Space is limited.Reserve your Webinar seat now at:http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001EP8qOaxhDJzo8zAFRImxYUedw5whULAmJgWFwPPrNqA9rVfmKNpmtUPLquFdOMWEonmXyM2Dd06ea_RR8W4mJTowp-pJ28QqGE5TaFDixRu4R5Rxu79ofz0C89huAlZzjCEK9H_BqxkFDy92sVwL2A==
Did we mention the free cruises?
Everyone participating in the webinar post-event survey will have an opportunity to win one of TEN free cruises!
(Visit the following web page for terms and conditions: http://167.118.200.101/nclweb/cruiser/cmsPages.html?pageId=SkyTermsConditions
Here's what's in it for you....
1. Inside scoop on the industry's newest 3/4 day cruises!
2. A new "Kid's Sail Free" offer for the summer!
3. All resulting in incremental bookings for you!
4. A chance to win one of TEN free cruises!
DURING THE CALL WE WILL ALSO SHARE PHOTOS AND NEWS ON NCL'S NEXT GENERATION OF FREESTYLE CRUISING SHIPS... F3. YOU'LL BE AMONG THE FIRST TO HEAR ABOUT ALL THE FANTASTIC INNOVATIONS THIS NEW CLASS OF SHIP WILL BRING.
Don't miss out! Register today to attend the online session... invitations are limited to the first 1000 travel partners who respond to this invitation!
Title: Get the Inside Scoop!
New 3 & 4 Day Cruises, Freestyle/Partnership 2.0 Updates and New F3 Ships
Date: Friday, May 9, 2008
Time: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM EDT
Space is limited.Reserve your Webinar seat now at:http://rs6.net/tn.jsp?e=001EP8qOaxhDJzo8zAFRImxYUedw5whULAmJgWFwPPrNqA9rVfmKNpmtUPLquFdOMWEonmXyM2Dd06ea_RR8W4mJTowp-pJ28QqGE5TaFDixRu4R5Rxu79ofz0C89huAlZzjCEK9H_BqxkFDy92sVwL2A==
Top 5 Reasons To Sell Latin America
1. Newspapers across America have editorialized about the slide in the dollar and its effect on vacation planning to many foreign countries. However, Latin America has been and remains a very high value destination for your clients.
2. Meanwhile, Samantha Brown, the Travel Channel’s popular travel correspondent, is doing a series of shows called “Passport to Latin America,” following up on her successful “Passport to Europe” series of last year. These are currently in rotation on the Travel Channel each week, and should boost interest in these destinations.
3. South America’s cities — such as Buenos Aires, Argentina; Santiago, Chile; and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil — are sophisticated, cosmopolitan centers of culture and art, not to mention great restaurants, cafes and nightlife. It’s not for nothing that Buenos Aires is known as the “Paris of the New World.”
4. Because the traveling public is somewhat unfamiliar with the geography and transportation systems of Latin America, they are more likely to come to a professional travel agent for assistance in booking a Latin America vacation.
5. Avanti Destinations makes it easy for you to sell a complete package to your clients. Our Recommended Vacation Packages include meet and greet service at the airport, all the accommodations and sightseeing, all the ground transportation and transfers, and assistance along the way when needed. We can even offer you great tour airfares roundtrip to most Latin destinations from a wide range of American gateways—so you can book the entire vacation with one phone call or one visit to our website!
So, what are you waiting for? Here are just a few of our great Latin packages:
1. CostCosta Rica: Rainforest, Volcanoes & Beach
2. Best of Peru Rica: Rainforest, Volcanoes & Beach
3. Best of Peru
2. Meanwhile, Samantha Brown, the Travel Channel’s popular travel correspondent, is doing a series of shows called “Passport to Latin America,” following up on her successful “Passport to Europe” series of last year. These are currently in rotation on the Travel Channel each week, and should boost interest in these destinations.
3. South America’s cities — such as Buenos Aires, Argentina; Santiago, Chile; and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil — are sophisticated, cosmopolitan centers of culture and art, not to mention great restaurants, cafes and nightlife. It’s not for nothing that Buenos Aires is known as the “Paris of the New World.”
4. Because the traveling public is somewhat unfamiliar with the geography and transportation systems of Latin America, they are more likely to come to a professional travel agent for assistance in booking a Latin America vacation.
5. Avanti Destinations makes it easy for you to sell a complete package to your clients. Our Recommended Vacation Packages include meet and greet service at the airport, all the accommodations and sightseeing, all the ground transportation and transfers, and assistance along the way when needed. We can even offer you great tour airfares roundtrip to most Latin destinations from a wide range of American gateways—so you can book the entire vacation with one phone call or one visit to our website!
So, what are you waiting for? Here are just a few of our great Latin packages:
1. CostCosta Rica: Rainforest, Volcanoes & Beach
2. Best of Peru Rica: Rainforest, Volcanoes & Beach
3. Best of Peru
Classic Vacations Webinar
Attend the Classic Vacations webinar and be entered to win a 3 night stay at the Sheraton Maui. Classic Vacations will be conducting a product overview via the web exclusively for Home Based Travel Agents. They will highlight the following:
1. Classic’s superior customer satisfaction and how we do it
2. Reinforcing the Classic Difference
3. Unique inventory
4. High touch sales & service
5. What’s new at Classic Vacations
If you want to sell more Classic Vacations - you won’t want to miss this session! Register Now!
Thursday May 15, 2:00pm-3:00 pm EST
Click here to register
1. Classic’s superior customer satisfaction and how we do it
2. Reinforcing the Classic Difference
3. Unique inventory
4. High touch sales & service
5. What’s new at Classic Vacations
If you want to sell more Classic Vacations - you won’t want to miss this session! Register Now!
Thursday May 15, 2:00pm-3:00 pm EST
Click here to register
Wednesday
Free Training Webinar for Travel Agents
Attend the Regent Seven Seas Cruises webinar and learn how you can earn a $50 AMEX gift card!
Regent Seven Seas Cruises will be conducting a product overview via the web exclusively for home based travel agents. Learn more about Regent and we’ll highlight the following:
1. Regent Product Review
2. Marketing Tools available to you.
3. Customer Insights to help you sell more Regent
4. Opportunities to earn more in 08/09
Discover The Regent Experience: All shipboard gratuities included; complimentary select wines and spirits, soft drinks and hot beverages served throughout the ship; complimentary 24-hour room service; in-suite bar setup in Butler suites; and refrigerator replenished daily with soft drinks, beer and bottled water.
You won’t want to miss this learning webinar and the opportunity to earn the exclusive Vacation.com Agent Booking incentive!
Register Now!
Wednesday May 21st at 2pm, EDT. Click here to register.
Regent Seven Seas Cruises will be conducting a product overview via the web exclusively for home based travel agents. Learn more about Regent and we’ll highlight the following:
1. Regent Product Review
2. Marketing Tools available to you.
3. Customer Insights to help you sell more Regent
4. Opportunities to earn more in 08/09
Discover The Regent Experience: All shipboard gratuities included; complimentary select wines and spirits, soft drinks and hot beverages served throughout the ship; complimentary 24-hour room service; in-suite bar setup in Butler suites; and refrigerator replenished daily with soft drinks, beer and bottled water.
You won’t want to miss this learning webinar and the opportunity to earn the exclusive Vacation.com Agent Booking incentive!
Register Now!
Wednesday May 21st at 2pm, EDT. Click here to register.
Make it Happen Tips.
1. Show your prospects how much enthusiasm you have for your product and business. If you're convincing enough, they will be enthusiastic too.
2. End your sales letter or ad copy with a strong closing. It could be a free bonus, a discount price, a benefit reminder, an ordering deadline, etc.
3. Please your complaining customers. You can't refund their money, give them a discount, give them a free gift, solve the problem quickly, etc.
4. Make your customers get excited about your business and they will tell their friends. Give them a free vacation certificate, a coupon, etc.
5. Give your prospects extra confidence so they will order. Use endorsements, testimonials, a strong guarantee or warranty, etc.
6. Build your opt-in list by allowing your visitors to sign up for a free e-zine, ebooks, software, contests, sweepstakes, etc.
7. Give your prospects or customers a breath of fresh air. Don't be afraid to design your eMail ad copies different from everyone else.
8. Send then a cooking recipe to try out from that destination.
9. Write and submit articles to e-zine publishers webmasters. If you want it to be published, it should be like an article and not like an ad.
10. Show your prospects that you are an expert, because authority can persuade people to buy. You could publish an article, write an ebook, etc
2. End your sales letter or ad copy with a strong closing. It could be a free bonus, a discount price, a benefit reminder, an ordering deadline, etc.
3. Please your complaining customers. You can't refund their money, give them a discount, give them a free gift, solve the problem quickly, etc.
4. Make your customers get excited about your business and they will tell their friends. Give them a free vacation certificate, a coupon, etc.
5. Give your prospects extra confidence so they will order. Use endorsements, testimonials, a strong guarantee or warranty, etc.
6. Build your opt-in list by allowing your visitors to sign up for a free e-zine, ebooks, software, contests, sweepstakes, etc.
7. Give your prospects or customers a breath of fresh air. Don't be afraid to design your eMail ad copies different from everyone else.
8. Send then a cooking recipe to try out from that destination.
9. Write and submit articles to e-zine publishers webmasters. If you want it to be published, it should be like an article and not like an ad.
10. Show your prospects that you are an expert, because authority can persuade people to buy. You could publish an article, write an ebook, etc
No Slow Down for Disiney
Hit by increasing costs for groceries and gasoline, Americans have reduced nonessential spending. The Walt Disney Company announced on Tuesday, however, that the slowdown in the economy has not affected its theme park business. Disney reported a 33% increase in its operating income at its parks and resorts division. "Our parks offer a unique experience that simply is not available elsewhere," said Robert A. Iger, chief executive at Disney
Make it Happen
By: Richard Earls "TravelReacearch On Line"
Some people make things happen...
Some watch things happen...
Some ask what happened?
The key ingredient in every marketing plan is ACTION.
You have to make things happen.
As we have said before, just having a plan is not enough. You have to put goals in place to measure your progress. If you don't do so, you will inevitably find that at the end of the quarter or the year, you are not where you wanted to be. Don't wait until the beginning of the year if you do not already have a plan.
Start now! Here are a few tips that will help you reach your goals:
1. Put it in writing - your marketing plan and your action plan need to be in writing. It is not good enough to "have it in your head".
2. Lay out the numbers - put down real numbers, not vague goals: I want to earn $30,000 in commission revenue this year.
3. Develop a Marketing Calendar - Know what you are going to promote and when. Lay out a calendar of promotions.
4. Visit the Plan - No less than every month, review your progress. Make adjustments, get back on course.
5. Review your tactics - put into place the type of techniques that make success happen.
The lessons, strategies and tactics we review daily in this column are things you already know in large part. The key is keeping them fresh in your mind and actively working your marketing plan.
Only you can make it happen.
Some people make things happen...
Some watch things happen...
Some ask what happened?
The key ingredient in every marketing plan is ACTION.
You have to make things happen.
As we have said before, just having a plan is not enough. You have to put goals in place to measure your progress. If you don't do so, you will inevitably find that at the end of the quarter or the year, you are not where you wanted to be. Don't wait until the beginning of the year if you do not already have a plan.
Start now! Here are a few tips that will help you reach your goals:
1. Put it in writing - your marketing plan and your action plan need to be in writing. It is not good enough to "have it in your head".
2. Lay out the numbers - put down real numbers, not vague goals: I want to earn $30,000 in commission revenue this year.
3. Develop a Marketing Calendar - Know what you are going to promote and when. Lay out a calendar of promotions.
4. Visit the Plan - No less than every month, review your progress. Make adjustments, get back on course.
5. Review your tactics - put into place the type of techniques that make success happen.
The lessons, strategies and tactics we review daily in this column are things you already know in large part. The key is keeping them fresh in your mind and actively working your marketing plan.
Only you can make it happen.
Monday
Caribbean Summer Deals
In the Caribbean, summer is always a steal. But this year, it may be even more appealing that usual.
You know the drill: When New York temperatures rise, Caribbean hotel rates melt. Airline seats are cheaper, crowds thin out, and those same resorts that block out winter rooms for A-list Hollywood crowds are suddenly wooing mere mortals with serious discounts.
Thanks to this year's economic blues and increased air service to the Caribbean overall, you might be able to snag an even better bargain than in years past. Look for rates 30, 40, even 50 percent cheaper than in high season -- and be sure to ask when you book if other packages or savings might be available. Hint: New lodgings and those under rennovation often offer the best savings.
You know the drill: When New York temperatures rise, Caribbean hotel rates melt. Airline seats are cheaper, crowds thin out, and those same resorts that block out winter rooms for A-list Hollywood crowds are suddenly wooing mere mortals with serious discounts.
Thanks to this year's economic blues and increased air service to the Caribbean overall, you might be able to snag an even better bargain than in years past. Look for rates 30, 40, even 50 percent cheaper than in high season -- and be sure to ask when you book if other packages or savings might be available. Hint: New lodgings and those under rennovation often offer the best savings.
Saturday
Simple Things You Can Do.
There are ways you can market your travel business without spending a lots of money.
Print a small ad on a postcard and mail it to potential customers in rich neighborhood. People are more likely to read a message on a postcard if it is brief. This can also lead people to your Web site and create sales or leads.
Send a handwritten note to all customers thanking them for there business. Include several business cards with a note on back of card that says referred by (clients name) ask them to give you business cards to any one they know that is planing a vacation, cruise or honeymoon. Tell them that for every client that they refer and books with you they will receive a $20. Gift Certificate good towards their vacation.
Use a e-newsletter to keep in touch with existing customers every month. Use articles that are educational about destination and travel tips. Don't just send travel specials. But always include two or three travel specials at the bottom of each letter. You can also ask clients to send you comments on destinations they would like to know more about. If you don't know what to wright just Google a destination or subject. You will will get a ton of information.
You can also wright articles for local newspapers, and other publications that reach customers. This will get your name in the public and help build credibility. Just DON'T try to use it as a sales article, make it newsy
Make sure to include your name and your website.
Print a small ad on a postcard and mail it to potential customers in rich neighborhood. People are more likely to read a message on a postcard if it is brief. This can also lead people to your Web site and create sales or leads.
Send a handwritten note to all customers thanking them for there business. Include several business cards with a note on back of card that says referred by (clients name) ask them to give you business cards to any one they know that is planing a vacation, cruise or honeymoon. Tell them that for every client that they refer and books with you they will receive a $20. Gift Certificate good towards their vacation.
Use a e-newsletter to keep in touch with existing customers every month. Use articles that are educational about destination and travel tips. Don't just send travel specials. But always include two or three travel specials at the bottom of each letter. You can also ask clients to send you comments on destinations they would like to know more about. If you don't know what to wright just Google a destination or subject. You will will get a ton of information.
You can also wright articles for local newspapers, and other publications that reach customers. This will get your name in the public and help build credibility. Just DON'T try to use it as a sales article, make it newsy
Make sure to include your name and your website.
Friday
Cruises for Mother's Day
Carnival Cruise Lines is suggesting families consider taking a cruise over Mother's Day on May 11. Although the holiday is less than two weeks away, Carnival says there is still room for a "Fun Ship" getaway. The company has six departures ranging from three to five days available over the Mother's Day holiday to Mexico, the Bahamas or the Caribbean.
"An estimated 82 million mothers reside in the U.S., according to the latest U.S. Census numbers, and Carnival, as the number-one cruise line catering to families, is poised to provide mothers with a special and memorable day," said Lynn C. Torrent, Carnival's senior vice president of sales and guest services.
Carnival's three- to five-day cruises departing over Mother's Day weekend include:
Carnival Fantasy departing on a four-day cruise from New Orleans to Cozumel on May 8;
Carnival Paradise, three-day cruise from Long Beach, Calif., to Ensenada departing May 9;
Carnival Fascination, three-day cruise from Miami to Nassau departing May 9;
Carnival Imagination, five-day cruise from Miami to Grand Cayman and Ocho Rios departing May 10;
Carnival Inspiration, five-day cruise from Tampa to Grand Cayman and Cozumel Saturday, May 10;
Carnival Sensation, four-day cruise from Port Canaveral to Freeport and Nassau, May 11.
Cruise-only rates begin at $349 per person for three-day cruises, $399 per person for four-day cruises, and $449 per person for five-day cruises, based on double occupancy. For more information, call 800-CARNIVAL or visit www.bookccl.com.
"An estimated 82 million mothers reside in the U.S., according to the latest U.S. Census numbers, and Carnival, as the number-one cruise line catering to families, is poised to provide mothers with a special and memorable day," said Lynn C. Torrent, Carnival's senior vice president of sales and guest services.
Carnival's three- to five-day cruises departing over Mother's Day weekend include:
Carnival Fantasy departing on a four-day cruise from New Orleans to Cozumel on May 8;
Carnival Paradise, three-day cruise from Long Beach, Calif., to Ensenada departing May 9;
Carnival Fascination, three-day cruise from Miami to Nassau departing May 9;
Carnival Imagination, five-day cruise from Miami to Grand Cayman and Ocho Rios departing May 10;
Carnival Inspiration, five-day cruise from Tampa to Grand Cayman and Cozumel Saturday, May 10;
Carnival Sensation, four-day cruise from Port Canaveral to Freeport and Nassau, May 11.
Cruise-only rates begin at $349 per person for three-day cruises, $399 per person for four-day cruises, and $449 per person for five-day cruises, based on double occupancy. For more information, call 800-CARNIVAL or visit www.bookccl.com.
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