Travel Agent Professional July 2016

Travel AgentProfessional

July 2016

Issue 44

How to Be Found & Build ClientsBy Cindy Bertram

Bob Lepisto

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=9




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Travel Agent Professional TAP2

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Ad Index

64 Brexit - A Cloud With A Silver Lining For

UK Tourism?

By Paull Tickner

68 Expanded Cruise Products By Mitchell J. Schlesinger

MJS Consultants

10 How to Be Found & Build ClientsBy Cindy Bertram

Cindy's Inside Cruise & Travel Track, LLC

16 CubaBy Les-Lee Roland

Owner of The Package Deal

ShowcaseAuto Europe...................................................................24

American Marketing Group .....................................20-23

World Travel Holdings ..................................................26

Trisept Solutions ............................................................27

July

amadeus..........................................7

Auto Europe .................................IFC

Britain Greatdays.............................3

HostTravelAgency.com .................15

RCI ...............................................BC

TRAVELSAVERS.............................25

Cover Photo: SeaDream Yacht Club , Cuba, and Highclere Castle

July 2016Issue 44

Travel Agent Professional has its roots in Home Based Trade, the firstmagazine of its kind, started by Joel Abels in 2004. Joel and Lenore Abelsran Travel Trade for nearly half a century it was started by her grandfa-ther, John S. Lewis, and her father, Sidney Lewis, in 1929, and they tookthe publication over after her grandfathers passing.

Under Joels direction, the company grew to be one of the travel agentindustrys leading publications, reaching more than 45,000 agentsthroughout North America. It spawned a famous series of trade showsand three monthly magazines Cruise Trade, Tour Trade and HomeBased Trade.

The Abels also garnered enormous respect Joel received the NealAward, called the Pulitzer Prize of the business press, for his hard-hit-ting editorials.

On a personal note, after working with Joel for over a decade and stay-ing with him until the end, I grew to truly care for and respect the man.He was like a second father to me. Joel was old school, he stood by hisword and believed in his work. There will never be another.

While nobody can replace this industry legend, were hoping thatthis new publication, which reunites the original Home Based Tradeeditorial board, will be able to carry on his passion for travel andthose who sell it.

Ann M. Hoek

Travel Agent ProfessionalStaten Island, NY 10312

E-mail:[email protected]

Phone: 718.360.3153

Ann M. HoekPublisher/Creative Design

[email protected]

Bonnie WallingEditor

[email protected]

Alan CohenVice President Marketing

[email protected]

Meet Our Editorial Board

Paull Tickner,Creator of Special Interest Britain

[email protected]

Cindy Bertram,Cindys Inside Cruise & Travel Track, LLC

[email protected]

Mitchell J. SchlesingerPresident, MJS Consultants

[email protected]

Les-Lee RolandOwner of The Package Deal

Sue Sh apiro, PresidentShapiro Travel [email protected]

www.shapirotravelresources.com

Rusty Pickett, ECCShellback Cruises

www.shellbackcruises.com

Sherry Laskin, ACCTravel Writer/NACTA Webinar Moderator

www.cruisemaven.com

Joel M. Abels Legend In the Travel Industry

April 1927 to January 2007

July 2016

The opinions expressed in these columns are solely those of the authors and

do not necessarily reflect the views of Travel Agent Professional.

This online magazine is dedicated tothe memory of Joel Abels, Travel

Trade's editor and publisher. Joel andhis life's work may be gone, but with

your help it can live on.

Travel AgentProfessional

Travel Agent Professional

July 2016

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By Mitchell J. Schlesinger

Chief Marketing & Sales Officer, MJS Consultants,

[email protected]

4Resulting In More

Sales & Increased

Commissions

During the era I call Phase 1 of modern cruise industry

development , 1975-2000, we determined through

research that, on the overall, guests were repeating on

average every 18-36 months. There were several logical

reasons for this frequency;

Expanded Cruise Products Enhance Repeat Cruise

Frequency

Cruising was still relatively new from 1975-90; very Caribbean and Bahamas from Royal,Carnival and Norwegian for departures from Miami and Alaska and Mexican Rivera (plus sea-

sonal Panama Canal) for Holland, Princess and Sitmar on the west coast. Itineraries in Europe

and the Med began to expand in the 90s as well.

Bigger ships built in the late 80s and 90s were...bigger 1,500-1,800 but not dramatically engag-ing from an onboard standpoint.

New mega-ship development with really exciting new enticing onboard features did not beginuntil closer to 2000.

Royal Viking and Royal Cruise line were both out of business by 1990 which left a void in theworldwide destination niche until Orient Lines started in 1994.

With river cruising just starting to develop in the mid-90s, clients relied more on land toursfor itineraries to experience destinations up close and personal.


5

During the past 15-20 years there have been changes in the industry resulting in dramatic enhancements to cruise

ship onboard product offerings and amenities, and itinerary opportunities across the globe that enable travel profes-

sionals to entice clients to cruise more often. Here are some feature/benefit marketing messages designed to keep

clients coming back:

For clients who like to go to Las Vegas for gambling, shows and multiple dining options, 3,000 - 5,000 pas-senger mega ships offer all of these options PLUS fantastic value since the day of the all-you-can-eat buffet

in Las Vegas for $5.95 is definitely over!

Clients who enjoy spa retreats will love the spa programs on newer ships, including those with inclusive spaenvironments where the staterooms on the same deck as the spa, PLUS, exclusive spa restaurants. And the

exercise room equipment offerings and classes will meet the needs of those who want to keep up with

their work out regimens.

Clients looking for itineraries across the globe have options in the ultra-luxury, large ship luxury, deluxe andpremium segments offering multiple onboard experiences at a variety of price points. With ships ranging

from 400-3,000 guests there are a myriad of opportunities to fulfill clients far flung travel desires.

Expanded Cruise Products Enhance Repeat Cruise

Frequency

6July 2016

And speaking of far flung adventures, the industry, more than ever, fulfills the lure for adventure travel. Thereare more cruises than ever offered to the Antarctic, Galapagos, and Artic. These offerings are traditionally pro-

vided by small ship operators and now are also offered by Celebrity, Crystal, Silver Seas and other more main-

stream lines.

For repeat tour clients looking for those small group up close and personal destination experiences, there aremore river and coastal ships on more rivers and countries than ever. These itineraries enable guests to

immerse themselves into these cities and countries, enjoy indigenous cuisine and mix and mingle with local resi-

dents. And again, the value and comfort is far superior versus the on-and-off buses and multiple hotel stays

offered by tours where ALL meals are usually not included.

And for those clients who have been taking tours for years THERE IS NOT BETTER WAY to see numerousdestinations around the world than on a ship. Greece, New Zealand, Australia, South America/Amazon, just to

name a few. Cruise-tours in Alaska offer the best of coastal cities and inland scenery. Hawaii by ship, 100 hours

in port in 7 days, is far more enjoyable than flying from island to island. Similarly for the south Pacific. PLUS, itin-

erary variety is enhanced via ship; 7-10 day itineraries in the Baltic provide the opportunity to visit Amsterdam,

Copenhagen, 2-3 days in St. Petersburg (with opportunity to flite-see Moscow), Tallinn, Helsinki and

Stockholm.

Strategicallyly, cruise lines enhance their product lines to entice their own guests to sail more often. And more than ever

these expanded line of products meet more and more of your clients travel desires. This provides you with the opportu-

nity to promote different products which will have clients cruising more frequently. More frequent bookings = more

sales = more commissions. And importantly use the feature/benefit approach in your marketing messaging so that your

clients understand how and why these cruise products fulfill their travel wants and desires much better than alternatives.

July 2016

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Ive been customising UK tours for over 35 years and if you need help in putting these showcase items into a well-

constructed and sensibly priced itinerary, email me at [email protected] For more bright ideas, check out my

website at www.customgb.co.uk

While clever people way above my pay grade work out the

far reaching implications of the earthquake caused by the

Brexit victory, as far as our hotels, castles, stately homes, gar-

dens, cathedrals, pubs and tea rooms are concerned, the

signs are out everywhere to confirm that its very much

Business As Usual.

On Thursday 23rd June, the USD exchange rate was around

$1.47. At the time of writing, it has moved in your favour to

$1.36 with pundits predicting that it will stay below $1.40 for

much of 2016.

By Paull Tickner

Brexit

A Cloud With A

Silver Lining For

UK Tourism?

8

This is where the silver lining comes in as enterprising travel agents target their anglophile customers and

encourage them to head for the UK this summer. If enough of you get behind the idea, youll play an impor-

tant role in giving our industry a valuable shot in the arm as we in turn give your clients a truly memorable

travel experience.

To add bubble, fizz and pleasant surprises to their trip and to make their dollars go even further, encourage them

to spend less time in London and more time in the countryside where the prices better and where theyll find were

celebrating:

The Year of the English Garden(https://www.visitbritain.org/year-english-garden-2016) and the 300ththe Capability Browns Tercentenary

Charlotte Brontes (https://www.bronte.org.uk/whats-on/news/149/bronte200) 200th anniversary Beatrix Potters 150th anniversary (http://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/lists/celebrating-beatrix-potters-

anniversary-in-the-lake-district)

The centenary of Alf Wight aka James Herriot (http://www.hello-yorkshire.co.uk/.../centenary-anniver-sary-of-famous-veterinary-surgeon-a.), author of All Creatures Great and Small

The centenary of Roald Dahl (http://www.roalddahl.com/roalddahl100), the creator of Charlie and theChocolate Factory, the BFG and Mathilda

The 400th anniversary of the death of William Shakespeare (http://shakespeares-england.co.uk/shake-speare-2016)

The 950th anniversary of the Battle of Hastings (http://www.english-heritage.org.uk/about-us/search-news/1066_battle_of_hastings_represented), a living history re-enactment

And dont forget that Downton Abbey (Highclere Castle) is open until 7th September and the golden age of

steam is very much alive with the return of the Flying Scotsman.

As the UK extricates itself from the European Union DO NOT lose sight of the fact that all the places your

clients want to see are open and ready to give your customers a truly memorable visit the exchange rate is

firmly in your favour which means that the UK and Ireland are destinations where you can continue to make

very good profits


9Brexit A Cloud With A

Silver Lining For

UK Tourism?

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July 2016

Regardless of what you sell, one of the

ongoing challenges running any business

today is first being found. Getting poten-

tial clients in the door and then turning

them into clients who purchase products

us ing our profess iona l serv ices and

expertise is the next critical step. In the

case of travel agent professionals, once

we get that first sale and get the booking

in? The next step is getting those clients

to come back and cont inue booking

through us. Whats the best way to be

found and build your clientele?

By Cindy Bertram

Cindy's Inside Cruise & Travel Track, LLC

Building Trust and Elevating the

Experience

In any sales situation, building that level of trust first is criti-

cal. Yes, as travel professionals we do have to ask for the

sale but that can be handled through the right phasing. In

our case, we are also elevating the experiences for our

clients, from beginning to end, by eliminating the stress

they would go through if they tried to arrange and book

everything themselves.

Think about a purchase you made yourself. How did you

find the business, company or professional in the first

place? Was it through a referral, possibly from someone

you trust and know who has a good relationship with that

business or professional?

Relationship Marketing

A key area in being found involves relationship marketing.

One of my favorite ways to create future sales goes back to

a phase, build the relationship first, and then the sale will

come. It goes back to getting to know more about a person

who could be a potential future client - knowing what they

like, whats important to them, their preferences, their per-

sonal style, how they make decisions, priorities, and more.

How to Be Found

& Build Clients

11


Insights from Dean

DeLisle, Founder and

CEO, Forward

Progress

Chicago area based company, Forward

Progress, headed up by Dean DeLisle,

Founder and CEO, has an incredible

success when it comes to helping busi-

nesses and people connect with leads

and closing sales. Dean and his team

have helped over 4,000 clients connect

with leads (over 25 million) and closing

over a billion dollars in sales. But its

based on helping their clients make the

connections that count. Ive had the

pleasure of knowing Dean for a few

years and he mentions that online net-

works are important when building a

business, and hes passionate about

helping their clients build a communi-

ty. A community is a way to build a

longer term resource for potentia l

clients. Getting to know people first,

and building those personalized rela-

tionships with them is part of what

builds social selling. In the travel busi-

ness, thats also a good way to think

about it building our own respec-

t ive communit ies f i r s t , and then

develop the personalized relationships

that can turn into sales, all with that

social selling element.

SeaDream Yacht Clubs Success

The Little Cruise Line That Could

Now celebrating its 15th year anniversary, SeaDream Yacht Club is a wonderful success story and has won

numerous awards. When they started in 2001, it perhaps was not the best time to start a new cruise line.

They faced some challenges. The terrorist attacks on 9/11 brought travel to a literal standstill. In the cruise

industry, cruise lines continued to head into a new direction, building even larger, more massive ships com-

plete with new features, alternative dining venues, lavish spas and diverse entertainment options.

So where did SeaDream Yacht Club fit into the picture? SeaDream Yacht Club began with the purchase of

two sister yachts, which went through an extensive dry-dock and refit. Re-christened and named SeaDream I

and SeaDream II, they accommodated 112 guests, had a 95 person crew and were 4,250 gross registered tons

each. With a tagline, Its Yachting, Not Cruising, they provided a more unique, all-inclusive alternative, with a

very intimate setting.

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July 2016

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Robert Bob Lepisto, President of SeaDream Yacht Club, credits the success to a few key things. He

explains, We sell with passion. Also, ours is a product whose success is really driven by word of mouth.

When SeaDream Yacht Club began back in 2001, we had a different vision. We wanted to be a casually dif-

ferent unique private yacht experience, with high end, quality dining and cuisine and impeccable service

appealing to like-minded people.

As a result, Bob notes, Our guests tell us again and again they love the cuisine as well the diverse choices,

and being able to make new friends onboard. SeaDream, for instance, has eight massage therapists who can

serve a maximum of 56 couples. Our guests can also take advantage of yoga classes and tai chi, and more.

Once again, this is where word of mouth has been the most successful way weve be able to market our-

selves. When you have people who come back and sail with us again and again along with bringing their

friends? Yes, its their passion that fits in with our selling with passion.

Focusing on the Uniqueness

More Insights from Bob Lepisto

When asked how SeaDream Yacht Club can best be described, Bob explains,

Were a bit more like a high end boutique hotel, but one that can sail to

unique ports. We create our itineraries with our guests in mind popular

ports like Monte Carlo and Mykonos, of course. But the small size of our

yachts allows our guests to also visit memorable lesser traveled ports as

well.

SeaDream Yacht Clubs clientele is one that has grown more conscious of

healthier lifestyles and quality dining. So when it comes to cuisine, this is

another area where SeaDream elevates the experience. Bob notes, We also offer the only raw food or liv-

ing food at sea. Our guests have the option of experiencing dishes that are prepared only with organic, raw

and vegan ingredients. And none of these are heated above 118 degrees Fahrenheit, by the way. This menu

was created in conjunction with the Hippocrates Health Institute. We dont push it, but we have it all avail-

able.

Another part of SeaDreams unique guest experiences? One of the highlights that occurs during their

Caribbean sailings is SeaDreams Caviar and Champagne Splash . Guests can wade out into the water

where a surfboard, complete with white linens, festive bubbles, premier caviar, and more is theirs to enjoy.

SeaDream also offers Wine Voyages, which offer exclusive, unique wine tastings, wine pairing dinners, and

personal winery visits.

The Many Takeaways

It gets back to some key things that

Bob Lepisto shared. Find your target

audience, get to know them, provide

something that will draw them in,

and provide that unique experience.

With SeaDream Yacht Club, their

tagline, Its yachting, not cruising,

says it best.

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July 2016

Planting the Seeds to Grow the Business

When it comes to not just starting but growing a business, which Bob and his team have done at SeaDream

over the years, he explains, You need to plant the seeds. Know when clients want to do something spectacu-

lar. For instance, do they have a big milestone coming up? Also, be ready to customize. At SeaDream were able

to customize in diverse ways one is offering of full ship charters. Once again, with the SeaDream I and

SeaDream II having just 56 staterooms accommodating 112 guests? This provides a great opportunity for travel

agents to explore charters and arrange them with us. And were an all-inclusive product, which once again is a

great selling point.

Back to the Success Having Excellent Partners

As far as the success that SeaDream Yacht Club has experienced through its fifteen years of existence, Bob

mentions that they do a minimum amount of advertising. SeaDream relies on their customers and dedicated

travel agents to get the word out. He further notes, We dont have to do it all ourselves; we just need to have

good partners. Bob has also found that agents are bringing in an incredible number of their clients who are cel-

ebrating milestone events, because people today are now more interested experiences, and not just collecting

things.

July 2016

16

How much do you really

know about Cuba?

Well I just returned from the 3rd sailing from Miami to Cuba, on the

FATHOM. Will I sell this to my clients YES. Will I go again YES.

Do I have a better understanding on how and to whom to market this

destination YES.

I thought I was already in the know about selling Cuba, when I had

booked clients with certain land trips with chartered air. But it is totally

different on a cruise. No matter what CNN reports, clients still dont

understand the embargo and how travelling to Cuba works.

The problems I had in the past dealing with very reputable companies

was securing dates and air, Everything was predicated on the Cuban visa

being processed and enough hotel space. Some of these again

reputable companies would cancel advertised dates, because, as they said

it, Cuba couldnt handle it fast enough.

Also, on those tours, the clients had to agree to go to certain places on

the itinerary, with minimal free time.

Try explaining to a client that US credit cards could not be used, cell

phones would not work (except for photos) and they would have to

convert their money into Cuban pesos. Plus mandatory insurance must

be provided by the Cuban government, along with the visa.

Now, FATHOM eliminates a lot of the burden. We can book a cruise the

same way we can with any res department. Over the phone or with the

online registration, everything is filled in for the cruise line to complete the

visa application so the passport is stamped when you enter the country.

First the ship. Really great. For us old time agents, it is a former

Renaissance ship. Identical to AZAMARA or older OCEANIA ships. And

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By Les-Lee Roland

Owner of The Package Deal

CUBA


in very good condition. No casino and we didnt

miss it at all. Service was incredible and thats not

an exaggeration. Food was exceptionally good. The

inventive appetizers and desserts were far better than

on recent sailings on other lines.

A mastermind has put together the adult activities

onboard. From the first evening when everyone was on

the outside decks for the sail away party that included a

scavenger hunt. There were functions going on con-

stantly from having your photo taken and put onto a

giant US map So everyone would get to know one

another faster. Casting a fishing pole into the pool to

get bottles with written notes inside. The zipline notes

to start a conversation with a stranger. Write your

wishes on windows the best sail away party ever!

Even the daily programs- all centered around self

improvement and communication with others. The

painting classes and street photography classes were

completely filled. After a good showing for the first one,

attendance increased during the week, due to word or

mouth. Also large attendance for the Spanish lessons.

Now, for Cuba. With over 2 mill ion people in

Havana alone, Cuba is over 500 years old and is the

largest island in the Caribbean. It is now on the cur-

rent 7 Wonders of the World destinations. Havana,

Cienfuegos, and Santiago are the three ports. The

rate INCLUDES the tours in each city, walking and

bus tours. All day outings even include the lunches

and drinks, either in state run restaurants or family

owned paladars.

The people to people programs to learn the culture

about Cuba included visits to a museum, dancing exhi-

bitions, artisans, cigar makers, entertainers, UNESCO

World Hertiage Sites, Hemingwayss favorite hotel,

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July 2016

religious buildings, and a cemetery. Plus the fabulous 1950s era of cars.

We were encouraged to ask questions to talk to people, and find out ourselves about their lives and their living

conditions. Nothing was really off limits to us. In fact, when I asked my guide about going to a certain area, he

worked it into the tour. Plus he provided tour maps for me to go to places not on the tour. The guides were quite

open in their discussions. The government pays for all their health care, and a full education that can include up to

6 years of university. Living in subsidized housing can cost just 2 pesos a month. But their earnings may be just 35

pesos a month. Internet is too expensive for many. The State owns and operates everything, with more private

businesses now opening.

Yes we saw damage from the many storms and hurricanes. And most buildings need either power washing or paint.

But the architecture is still amazing. New construction going on primarily some very needed updated hotel space.

Shopping well there are plenty of artisans and local painters all selling their works. And a large shopping area near

the ship sort of a big flea market with hundreds of stalls similar to Nassaus Straw market. So many of them sold

the same style of merchandise wood carvings, costume jewelry, drums, leather goods. And of course duty free cig-

ars and rum. Everything was so low priced, yet people still did dicker.

19


The only extra was the evening show at the Tropicana

just like it was back in the 50s. Everyone loved this

one optional tour. Again, you can go though the ship or

on your own.

And if you just wanted to get away on your own, it was

not discouraged. As long as you check off a couple of para-

graphs on the pre boarding papers, it was allowed. And I

got along quite well on the bicycle cabs or the classic autos.

Stay a couple of days in Havana before setting sail for

Cienfuegoes. And then on to Santiago the former

capital of Cuba, with a magnificent history of its own.

I think that each sailing is going to be even better. The

FATHOM crew is learning as well, and taking immediate

action to make this experience memorable.

Who to market this to? On our cruise, there were no

kids, a couple of college bound guys, and the ages varied

for everyone else. Even though I saw passengers with

their motorized scooters, please let your clients know

about the cobblestone walkways and not easy access

into all buildings. Summer sailings are hot temperature

wise. Very hot. There was no worry about mosquitoes.

We didnt go to the beaches, just because we were so

busy with everything else.

And no political references. Other than the gun museum,

where the weapons used by Castro and the others dur-

ing the revolution were housed. Cuba doesnt even allow

hand guns to be sold.

The buses used for the tours were the newest vehicles

provided by China. Comfortable and air conditioned.

Compared to the land packages I have sold, the FATH-

OM is far less in cost. Just slightly more than a Caribbean

cruise. And again- the tours are included.

Is this politically correct only you and your clients can

decide. On our cruise, passengers were from all over the

US. I met only a couple of people who were originally

from Cuba.

When I returned and started contacting my clients,

someone said she had heard there is nothing to see or

do there. On the contrary, Cuba is similar to any

Caribbean destination. You have the sun and the water,

music, dancing, culture, and shopping (inexpensive). And

the architecture, forgive the repeat, surpasses other

islands. And as everyone is saying- go now before every-

thing changes. It is not a time warp of the 50s. It was a

wonderful experience.

Another destination I just crossed off on my bucket list.

July 2016

American Marketing Group honored top affiliate pro-ducers and preferred supplier partners at their TravelMarket 2016 Conference at the JW Marriott DesertSprings in Palm Desert, CA this past week.Elite agencies were honored at a private reception

and celebrated at the Gala. These agencies earn theirstatus through their dedication and support of our pre-ferred suppliers and programs.The Gala continued with awards to recognize 6 of

the organizations most successful affiliates and 16 toppreferred supplier partners in 11 categories for the

United States, Canada and North America overall.The Group introduced a Soaring Eagle and ChairmansAward for the United States and Canada by segmentas follows: TRAVELSAVERS US, TRAVELSAVERSCanada and Network of Entrepreneurs Selling Travel(NEST).The Soaring Eagle award recognizes affiliates with the

largest preferred supplier sales growth in 2015. TheChairmans awards were given to the United States andCanadian affiliates with the highest preferred sales in2015.

American Group RecognizesTop Affiliates and Preferred Supplier Partners at

Conference Gala

Soaring Eagle Award:Chairmans Award:

Preferred Supplier Partnership Awards: United States Preferred Supplier Partnership Awards: Canada

Showcase


The winners are:Soaring Eagle Award: Soaring Eagle Award for TRAVELSAVERS US: Peacock Travel Group, Little Rock, Arkansas Soaring Eagle Award for TRAVELSAVERS CA: The Travel Agent Next Door, Toronto, ON, Canada Soaring Eagle Award for NEST: Diplomat Travel, Reston, Virginia

Chairmans Award: Chairmans Award for TRAVELSAVERS US: Boscovs Travel, Reading, Pennsylvania Chairmans Award for TRAVELSAVERS: CA TTI Travel, Toronto, ON, Canada Chairmans Award for NEST: Travel Dreams Unlimited, Manheim, PA

Preferred Supplier Partnership Awards recognize the top suppliers for Sales and Services in the United States andCanadian market as well as overall North American Partners of the Year. The winners were selected via survey byAmerican Marketing Group affiliates.Preferred Supplier Partnership Awards: United States Individual Tour Partner of the Year: Delta Vacations Insurance Partner of the Year: Allianz Partner of the Year Sales and Service: Norwegian Cruise Line Partner of the Year Best Educational Program: Marriott International Chairmans Award: Travel Impressions

Preferred Supplier Partnership Awards: Canada Canadian Package Partner of the Year: Transat Holidays Canadian Insurance Partner of the Year: Manulife Canadian Partner of the Year Sales and Service: Air Canada Vacations Canadian Partner of the Year Best Educational Program: Globus family of brands Chairmans Award: Westjet Vacations

Preferred Supplier Partnership Awards: North America Overall Ground Partner of the Year: AVIS Overall Cruise Partner of the Year:

Royal Caribbean International Overall Specialty Cruise Partner of the Year: Viking Cruises Overall Air Partner of the Year: Delta Air Lines Overall Luxury Partner of the Year: Silversea Cruises Overall Escorted Tour Partner of the Year:

Globus family of brands

About American Marketing Group:American Marketing Group, Inc. is the parent company of 18 leading travel brands around the globe, including

TRAVELSAVERS, NEST (The Network of Entrepreneurs Selling Travel), The Affluent Traveler Collection, Well-BeingTravel, Acclaim Meetings, TRAVELSAVERS Partner Services, TWIN (TRAVELSAVERS Worldwide IndependentNetwork), Travel Market Report, Forte Business Travel Solutions, OnlineXpress, tripXpress, cruiseexpress, travel tix,Travstar Technologies TRAVEL HELPLINE and agent24. Independent travel agencies in 35 countries are part of theorganization and generate more than $22 billion in annual travel industry sales.

July 2016

Autism Speaks Gala Silent Auction Light it Up Blue Raises a Record $82,000 at

Travel Market Conference in Palm Desert

American Marketing Group again part-nered with its charity of choice, AutismSpeaks, the nations largest science andadvocacy organization, at its Travel MarketConference in Palm Desert, California. Thegroup reached a new fundraising milestoneby raising over $82,000 for Autism Speaks.

Fund raising efforts at the companys globalTravel Market Conference at the JWMarriott Desert Springs Resort & Spa lastweek saw travel professionals as well aspreferred suppliers and staff participatingin several events, including a Walk forAutism around the beautifully landscapedproperty.

Other fund raising events included ademonstration by artist Gregory Adamsonwho created a painting on-site and thatwas auctioned off in a live auction. Therewas so much excitement in the room thattwo additional paintings were sold duringthe event as well. Greg is a California-based performance artist who regularlycreates paintings set to music, in front of

an audience at fundraisers, charity events,festivals and conferences. He has receivedinternational recognition for his uniquework.

The Gala on Saturday evening was the finalevent that had a charitable component. Itincluded a cocktail reception, dinner anddancing, as well as a grand silent auction.

Autism Speaks is thrilled to once againpartner with American Marketing Groupfor their Bi-Annual Travel Conference,said Christie Godowski, Autism SpeaksNational Walk Director. AmericanMarketing Group and its partners havebeen incredible supporters of AutismSpeaks over the past 6 years having raisedprior to this conference over $120,000since the partnership began. Funds raisedhave been used to provide programs andresources for children and adults on theautism spectrum, at every stage of life.

The autism cause has always had specialmeaning for our family, agents, suppliers

Showcase

Walk for Autism Group Shot. Painting purchasers: Mr. and Mrs. Tony Fragapane,Voyages Concierge Deluxe Travel, Doug Gollan,Management Board Member Travel Market Report, Jennifer Doncsecz, VIP

About American Marketing Group: American Marketing Group, Inc. is the parent company of 18leading travel brands around the globe, including TRAVEL-SAVERS, NEST (The Network of Entrepreneurs Selling Travel),The Affluent Traveler Collection, Well-Being Travel, AcclaimMeetings, TRAVELSAVERS Partner Services, TWIN (TRAVEL-SAVERS Worldwide Independent Network), Forte Business TravelSolutions, travel tix, Travstar Technologies, cruiseexpress, TRAV-EL HELPLINE and agent24. Independent travel agencies in 35countries are part of the organization and generate more than$22 billion in annual travel industry sales.

About Autism Autism is a general term used to describe a group of complexdevelopmental brain disorders autism spectrum disorders caused by a combination of genes and environmental influ-ences. These disorders are characterized, in varying degrees, bycommunication difficulties, social and behavioral challenges,and repetitive behaviors. An estimated 1 in 68 children in theU.S. is on the autism spectrum.

About Autism Speaks Autism Speaks is the worlds leading autism science and advocacyorganization. It is dedicated to funding research into the causes,prevention, treatments and a cure for autism; increasing awarenessof autism spectrum disorders; and advocating for the needs of indi-viduals with autism and their families. Autism Speaks was foundedin February 2005 by Suzanne and Bob Wright, the grandparents ofa child with autism. Since its inception, Autism Speaks has com-mitted more than $570 million to its mission, the majority in sci-ence and medical research. On the global front, Autism Speaks hasestablished partnerships in more than 70 countries on five conti-nents to foster international research, services and awareness. Tolearn more about Autism Speaks, please visit AutismSpeaks.org.

and employees. We are proud to partnerwith Autism Speaks at Travel Market onceagain and are thankful to everyone whoparticipated in this years fundraiser, saidJim Mazza, Chief Operating Officer,TRAVELSAVERS.

American Marketing Group is proud toraise funds and awareness for those affect-ed by autism spectrum disorders. We arehonored and humble that so many of ouragents have helped to support this cause we truly will make a difference in the livesof families affected by autism, saysNicole Mazza, Chief Marketing Officer,TRAVELSAVERS, NEST and The AffluentTraveler Collection.

1 .800 .223 .5555 www.au toeu rope .com39 Commercial St., P.O. Box 7006, Portland, ME 04112

New Survey Reveals Preferences of NorthAmericans Planning to Travel to Europe

Results of a new survey conducted by Auto Europe, one of the car rental industrys first aggregators, reveal

that over 40% of North Americans planning to visit Europe in the next 12 months do so as part of an annual

trip. These results were gathered to learn more about the travel preferences of North Americans. The survey

revealed that these travelers will most likely be accompanied by a family member in a group of 2 or 3.

The survey also provided insights into how European travelers

select their destination. As illustrated in the graph, in over 50%

of instances, travel destinations were selected because the

traveler had been there before. Of those planning to rent a

car while abroad, 57% stated that they typically book their car

rental reservation 2+ months in advance and do so because

they want the best price and want to feel relaxed leading up

to their trip.

We were not surprised to hear that so many of our customers

are frequent travelers to Europe, said Imad Khalidi, Auto

Europes President & CEO. Our expertise in the European market helps ensure our clients have a smooth

rental experience, and we go to great lengths to ensure that we have the types of vehicles they are looking

for even in peak travel months.

Read the full summary of survey results go to http://www.autoeurope.com/go/european-travel-survey

About Auto Europe

With over 60 years of experience in the rental car industry, Auto Europe specializes in helping travelers find

the best car rental rates in Europe and other popular destinations around the world. Auto Europes deep

understanding of the complexities of renting cars abroad paired with their knowledgeable team of rental

specialists (available 24/7) allows Auto Europe to provide travelers with the highest quality service in the

industry before, during and after their rental. To find the best rate on a car rental for your next trip abroad or

to learn more about renting a car in Europe visit www.autoeurope.com.

Showcase

Auto Europe Releases Results of Survey

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For more information on joining these award-winning agencies,

please visit www.DreamVacationsFranchise.com to learn more about owning a CruiseOne / Dream Vacations

travel franchise, and visit www.sellcruises.com to learn more about the Cruises Inc. host agency opportunity.

July 2016

CruiseOne/Dream Vacations and Cruises Inc., which are

part of World Travel Holdings the world's largest cruise

agency and award-winning leisure travel company, have

announced that its 2016 National Conference aboard the

Carnival Vista, has sold out in record time. The National

Conference will feature the theme BELIEVE and focus on

inspiring attendees to evolve their individual agencies by

introducing new business ideas, new concepts and new

ways of promoting the vast array of products sold.

Our award-winning national conference is one of the

largest in the travel agency industry to take place at sea

and is one of the most anticipated events of the year, said

Drew Daly, general manager of network engagement and

performance for CruiseOne / Dream Vacations and

Cruises Inc. National Conference provides us with the

opportunity to spend one week, interruption-free, engag-

ing with our network of agents and valued travel suppliers

and partners. The goal this year is for attendees to walk

away believing in each other, in their customers, in our

Travel Partners and in the Fort Lauderdale Headquarters

team. We are one team and when working together, we

will continue to be a leading team in travel.

The 2016 National Conference will inspire attendees to

break their mental models and gain a newfound self-con-

fidence in building relationships and implementing new

techniques to grow business. Throughout the week, atten-

dees will participate in motivational general sessions,

engaging networking events and one-on-one meetings

with suppliers, interactive educational workshops and

peer-to-peer brainstorming sessions. Attendees will also

be encouraged to connect socially using the hashtag

#BelieveConference.

"We always attend National Conference because it gives

us an opportunity to connect with other franchises and

collaborate on what others are doing to be successful,

said Dream Vacations Franchise Owner Keith Belanger of

Saco, Maine. It is also a great opportunity to hear about

what is going in the industry and within the CruiseOne /

Dream Vacations brand."

Use the #BelieveConference hashtag to follow the excite-

ment leading up to the annual CruiseOne / Dream

Vacations and Cruises Inc. conference, as well as for

updates during the week at sea.

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Sell Out 2016 National Conference Aboard Carnival Vista

Annual Conference Theme is Believe

Showcase


For Immediate Release

Media Contact: Maximilian Hess

[email protected] 414-247-2138

Major Host Agency Endorses Xcelerator to Over 3300 Travel Professionals

Travel Planners International to work with Trisept on platform customization, integration

MILWAUKEE (June 23, 2016) Trisept Solutions, a leading-edge travel technology firm propelling the biggest names in travel, announces that Travel Planners International (TPI) has officially endorsed the s Xcelerator product. The modern agency operating platform Xcelerator integrates all the systems leisure travel agents need on a daily basis, including business management and customer engagement tools, as well as well-established connections to industry-leading suppliers. The platform enables agents to organize, automate and synchronize sales, marketing and client services on an easy-to-use dashboard. maintaining a successful travel business will find that Xcelerator makes their job more efficient, their vacation recommendations more relevant, and their customer and supplier engagement more effective said Lynn Clark, vice president of engagement at Trisept ^Z TPI hosts and provides support to a network of over 3300 new and experienced travel professionals. Agents partner with TPI for profit-generating marketing programs, consumer connect options, negotiation power, training events and general support. Our number one goal is to provide our agents with the expertise and resources they need to be successful:>dW/The features available on the Xcelerator platform are invaluable to our Trisept is directly integrating Xcelerator to TPI Central, for greater productivity and supplier engagement. Trisept and TPI will also provide extensive training and support to TPI agents on the integrated platform. Clark Reber, director of the independent travel professional channel for Norwegian Cruise Line, said that E>[they] are thrilled that TPI provides its networ

Showcase

Major Host Agency Endorses Xceleratorto Over 3300 Travel Professionals

Travel Planners International to work with Trisept on platform customization, integration

Trisept Solutions, a leading-edge travel technology firm propelling the biggest names in travel, announces that

Travel Planners International (TPI) has officially endorsed the companys Xcelerator product.

The modern agency operating platform Xcelerator inte-

grates all the systems leisure travel agents need on a

daily basis, including business management and cus-

tomer engagement tools, as well as well-established

connections to industry-leading suppliers. The platform

enables agents to organize, automate and synchronize

sales, marketing and client services on an easy-to-use

dashboard.

Agents serious about building and maintaining a suc-

cessful travel business will find that Xcelerator makes

their job more efficient, their vacation recommenda-

tions more relevant, and their customer and supplier

engagement more effective, said Lynn Clark, vice pres-

ident of engagement at Trisept Solutions. Receiving an

endorsement from one of the largest host agencies

proves that we are delivering on that value proposi-

tion.

TPI hosts and provides support to a network of over

3300 new and experienced travel professionals. Agents

partner with TPI for profit-generating marketing pro-

grams, consumer connect options, negotiation power,

training events and general support.

Our number one goal is to provide our agents with the

expertise and resources they need to be successful,

said Jenn Lee, vice president of sales and marketing for

TPI. The features available on the Xcelerator platform

are invaluable to our travel professionals.

Trisept is directly integrating Xcelerator to TPI Central,

the host agencys extranet, which will allow for greater

productivity and supplier engagement. Trisept and TPI

will also provide extensive training and support to TPI

agents on the integrated platform.

Clark Reber, director of the independent travel profes-

sional channel for Norwegian Cruise Line, said that

with NCL's dedicated resources focused on the success

of independent travel professionals and hosts, [they] are

thrilled that TPI provides its network with all the tools

they need to grow.

TPI agents can sign-up to access the Xcelerator platform

immediately. They will also have access to the platfor-

ms Discover functionality, a cognitive search feature

powered by IBM Watson and technology from

WayBlazer, which is set to launch later this year.

For more information about Xcelerator, visit www.TriseptSolutions.com/Xcelerator.

This is not a cruise. This is an all new way for your clients to adventure with the best and biggest ships in the world.

Discover Allure of the Seas and Oasis of the Seas in the Caribbean, delivering a double dose of family thrills at

an unbeatable value. Or experience Europe on a massive scale onboard the new Harmony of the SeasSM, debuting

this May with all new activities, restaurants and gravity-defying slides like nothing ever seen at sea. Plus spacious

accommodations ideal for big family adventures. No matter where your clients choose to go, theres no better way to

jumpstart a summer vacation than with our Oasis Class ships.

Features vary by ship. Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd. Ships registry: The Bahamas. 16050747 5/4/16

For more information visit www.LoyalToYouAlways.com/Oasis

T H I S I S AD O U B L E D A R I N G

T H R I L L A M I N U T EF A M I L Y A D V E N T U R E.

OASIS OF THE SEAS

Fort Lauderdale | Through Fall 2016

Port Canaveral | Winter 2016

ALLURE OF THE SEAS

Fort Lauderdale | Year Round

HARMONY OF THE SEAS SM

Barcelona | Spring & Summer 2016

Fort Lauderdale | Fall 2016

July 2016

Travel Agent Professional July 2016

Documents

Transcript of Travel Agent Professional July 2016