ITPN MEETING IN ASHEVILLE

 

The International Travel Professionals Network (ITPN) recently met in Asheville, NC. The focus of the meeting was technology in running the business and in marketing. We covered some of the newer tools available to us; webinars to help us to use this technology and what tools are best to help us work while on the road. An important topic was social media and the differences in communication styles and vacation ideas between baby boomers and the millennial generation. When it comes to vacations, values and priorities are different and we must be sensitive to the needs of each generation. 

Asheville is an ideal meeting destination, with easy access, and lots to do when not in sessions. A sophisticated city filled with southern charm and a deep but constantly evolving arts and cultural heritage.  It is known for its microbreweries and has an interesting musical street scene.

 

 

 

This was the perfect area for this group of foodies.  While we did not get to sample every restaurant, we managed to take in quite a few.  A favorite tour was “Eating Asheville”.  We tasted and drank in seven different spots during this a 2½ hour walking tour.  Along with the eating was a bit of history about the town.  There are nearly as many styles of architecture throughout the streets of Asheville as there are buildings.  Asheville is the 2^nd largest Art Deco city in the US.  The ornate Jackson Building is located along Pack Square Park. The 13-story Neo-Gothic style skyscraper, completed in 1924, was the first skyscraper in western North Carolina and the tallest skyscraper in all of North Carolina.  It was fitted with a searchlight to draw tourists to the city and has been a visual landmark since its completion.

A highlight of our sightseeing was a visit to the “Biltmore”, the 1895 Vanderbilt estate.  It took six years to build, opened to the public in 1930, and is the largest privately owned estate in the country.  The estate includes beautiful gardens and grounds for walking, riding, canoeing and more.  It is a city in itself including restaurants, shops and a winery.

 

 

And how could we resist the opportunity to explore the area aboard La Zoom Trolley, a Comedy show on wheels.  It kept us laughing as the changing characters told tales of the area’s history some of its famous citizens. I won’t spoil it for you.  You really need to visit and learn for yourselves

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ITPN was founded 17 years ago by three Travel Professionals who decided to take their expertise home in an era when working from home was new. 

Meeting in an online chat room, they realized they could join forces learning the ins and outs of working from home.  They were soon sharing ideas and identifying the best websites and suppliers to work with.  Posting reports on our travels helped us to expand our knowledge and keep up with changes in the different destinations.  Articles in trade magazines attracted interest and we soon had a vetting process for new applicants.  Not everyone could make the grade and some just could not keep up with the requirements. Today we are as active as ever, addressing the ever changing challenges facing our business. ITPN’s 14 members hail from 10 states and boast an average of 25+ years of expertise in travel per member. We specialize in destinations ranging from Australia to Africa and covering all 5 continents.  Whether its adventure, heritage, romance or eco travel; via land or sea; individually or with a group. If you can dream it, these gals can plan it for you.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

New TSA Programs to Speed up Airport Security

Tired of long lines at airport security?  Or coming home from abroad and waiting in more lines to clear customs?  Take a look at these new programs.

 

If you make even one trip a year abroad, consider Global Entry, a U.S. Customs and Border Protection program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. 

 

At participating airports, participants proceed to Global Entry kiosks, present their machine-readable passport or U.S. permanent resident card, place their fingertips on the scanner for fingerprint verification, and make a customs declaration.  The kiosk issues the traveler a transaction receipt and directs them to baggage claim and the exit.

There is a $100 non-refundable application fee.  You will have to be pre-approved through a background check and interview.  Interviews are being held at Dulles Airport.  Membership is valid for five years.

 

Once approved, you will receive a Global Entry Card.  Details at:  www.GlobalEntry.gov.  Membership automatically enrolls you in PreCheck.

 

For those who only travel domestically, there is PreCheck.  US citizens can apply online and visit an enrollment site to provide identification and fingerprints.  Enrollees are being screened at Dulles Airport.

This program requires a background check, fingerprints and an anticipated enrollment fee of $85 for a five year term.  Once approved, travelers receive a “Known Traveler Number” and the opportunity to go through PreCheck lanes at airport security checkpoints.  This program enables travelers in these screening lanes to leave on their shoes, light outerwear and belts.  Travelers may keep their laptop in its case and their 3-1-1 compliant liquids bag in a carry-on. 

PreCheck is currently available at 40 airports nationwide.  Current participating carriers are Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Hawaiian Airlines, United Airlines, US Airways and Virgin America.  For details:  www.tsa.gov/tsa-precheck

 

A Mother Daughter Visit to Paris & London

When my daughter called to say she had a week off, we decided to visit Paris and London.  It was very last minute and we arrived just in time for the Olympics.  Lots of crowds but lots of fun.

Visiting the Eiffel Tower

We flew first to Paris, staying at the 4 star  Hotel Lumen, Rue des Pyramides.  The hotel is modern and trendy yet very French – lots of grey and black and crystal, with touches of red.  The room was small.   We had a small balcony facing Pyramdes –a really nice view.  Busy but never kept us awake at night.  It is right down the street from the Tulleries, between Rue de Rivoli and Avenue de l’Opera.  Very easy to walk to places from here.  The price included a small but nice buffet breakfast. 

Cruising the Seine

Touring the Louvre

During our 3 days we took a small group walking tour of Paris, the Louvre and Versailles Palace and Gardens.  We travelled by train to Versailles so that we could spend more time walking around the grounds after the tour.  We also took a boat ride on the Seine, strolled around the Tulleries one evening, and caught a performance at the Moulin Rouge.



The Sun came out over Tower Bridge

We took the Eurostar to London where we stayed at the 4 star Radisson Blu Leicester Square, just behind the British Museum and down the street from the Tickets Booth.  Very central location for getting around the city.  The room was small but the hotel was modern and the staff helpful and efficient. 

 

 Beach Volley Ball at the Royal Horsegards Parade

 

On the River Thames with the London Eye in backgroud

 With huge screens set up around town to broadcast the games live, we were able to catch the action and share the excitement with the locals and tourists from all over.  The subways were jammed most of the time, but cruising the Thames on a hop on off boat gave us a great way to explore the city without the masses.  We also did lots and lots of walking.

TRAVEL AGENT'S - BETTER THAN EVER

SEE THE SUNDAY WASHINGTON POST TRAVEL SECTION.  Today Nancy Trejos talks about the return of the Travel Agent.  When the airlines stopped paying commission, travel agents suddenly found themselves struggling to survive.  According to Nancy Trejos, of the Washington Post, they had to "change their modus operandi."   It was either that, or close their doors.  Nancy quotes ARC in stating there wre 37,981 travel agencies in 2001 and only16,564 ARC agencies as of this March. 

Of course, that is not the entire story.  Many of today's successful agencies are home based according to the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA).   These agencies do not issue individual airline tickets but provide airline services in connection with tour and cruise arrangements.  They would not belong to ARC.  The truth is, today's consumers are seeking more than just a ticketing agent.  They want a professional who can offer them advice about a complete range of topics from what to see and do, where to find great restaurants how to get a good deal on a hotel room, and where they can find a great guide who will show them the things the average tourist never sees.  To read the complete article go to:  http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/travel/travelers-turn-back-to-travel-agents/2011/04/25/AFZcLM8F_story.html

Travel Agents are not for everyone.  Some people like to build their own houses and fix their own cars.  Others prefer to plan their own trips.  For those who appreciate service, a Travel Agent is always there for you.

For More information on using the services of a travel agent, refer to my March 16 Article "Why You Need A Travel Agent".

Taking the Grandkids on Vacation

Every summer Grandparents around the country decide to take their grandchildren on vacation.  Cruises are always a popular vacation.  Lots and lots of activities for children of all ages.  Beaches resorts in the Caribbean cater to familes with children.  These resorts offer supervised kids programs for five different age levels. Here dining becomes a celebration, with up to 10 specialty restaurants per resort.  Leave your wallet at home, but bring your appetite, because it's all included from the non-motorized activities to the food and drink. They even include the gratuities. 

For the little ones there are nannies and Sesame Street Characters.  For the older kids there's XBox and Pirates Island.  Your teenagers will find a teens-only Beach Shack. Or they can hang at Trench Town with everything from hoops to football. And, just like you'd expect in the Caribbean, there are non-stop reggae jams to keep them moving with the beat and a teen night club.  Visit http://travelharmony.com/caribbean.html 

Scroll down and click on Beaches.  Or give us a call.

LENS ON AUSTRALIA

See Why We Say "There is Nothing Like Australia":  http://lensonaustralia.viotv.com/

SEEKING A NEW AND UNUSAL DESTINATION?

How about this:  Island hopping in the Indian Ocean; sunbathing in Mauritius, wellness in the Seychelles, hiking in La Reunion, nature experience in Madagascar shall soon be easily arranged. The tourism Authorities of the four islands have developed a new destination concept and position themselves now together with the label; ‘Iles Vanille’ or Vanilla Islands named for the Vanilla grow on all these islands.



For more information on this new "hot spot", give us a call or send an email to francine@travelharmony.com

Watch New Zealands Biggest Losers as they explore tourism facilities while losing weight

http://www.tourismnewzealand.com/news-and-features/latest-news/2011/04/queenstown-gets-the-biggest-loser-treatment/

Don't Miss WILD AUSTRALASIA airing on WETA TV 26 April 19&26:

http://www.weta.org/tv/programsatoz/program/76828

Save Time, Save Money: Use a Travel Agent

Alexandria, Va., March 31, 2011 - There's no end to the choices people have today, whether it's where to shop, what to buy and especially where to travel, but one of the most important choices a person can make is the decision to use a travel agent when planning their next vacation.
"Gone are the days when a travel agent just got you from Point A to Point B. Today's agent is a travel counselor skilled at not only providing their clients with their dream vacations but at giving them great value for their money. They are experts at navigating the Internet, and act as advocates on their clients' behalf in the event something goes wrong, such as a natural disaster or political unrest," ASTA President and Chair Chris Russo said. "Travel agents understand that travel planning isn't just about places, it's about people."
Here are just a few reasons to use a professional travel agent:

• Customer advocacy: If you have a problem with a particular part of your travel experience, the agent is there to act on your behalf to see that restitution is made. ASTA, for example, is the only travel industry association aggressively fighting to improve the travel experience, and air transportation in particular, for all consumers, not just those with access to the Internet.
• Expert guidance: Travel agents, unlike instructions on a Web page, are experts in understanding and deciphering the myriad travel information and codes out there. It's what they've been trained to do and they do it every day.
• Personalized service: Instead of an impersonal voice thousands of miles away, travel agents are your neighbors. They know what you want and what you value in your travel experience.
• Professional advice: Travel agents are there to make sure you get where you want to go, when you want to go and for the lowest price.
• Time: Instead of checking a long list of travel Web pages, which only provide rates and fares for the companies that have contracted with them, why not go straight to the source? A travel agent has all the information at their fingertips, saving you a few hours in front of a computer screen or on hold.
• Unbiased information: Agents work for their clients, not for a travel supplier. It makes sense that a happy customer will be a repeat customer.

Every travel agency is different and accordingly, some are better suited to a given consumer than others. Here are some tips provided by ASTA on choosing a travel agent who is right for you:

• Go with the Pros: Look for the ASTA label. Through its continuing education and training programs, ASTA prepares its members to operate high-caliber, competitive businesses.
• Ask Around: Tap friends, neighbors and relatives who use an agent they trust. You may want to visit or call several agencies to find the one that best suits your needs. Consider everything from the appearance of the office to the agent's willingness to listen and answer questions. The best agents want to establish a long-term relationship with a client, not just make one sale.
• Ask about Fees: Good agents will notify their clients of any additional fees, including service fees, up front. Doing otherwise is pointless, as the fee will appear as a separate charge on the client's credit card bill.
• Check Credentials: Many agents have been trained in business management, travel and tourism or geography. Others have supplemented their agency experience with extensive education and training courses. Some travel agents are Certified Travel Counselors (CTC) through the Travel Institute or Master Cruise Counselors (MCC) through the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA).
• Find out an Agency's Track Record: Visit ASTA.org to see whether a member agency has had a complaint against it in the prior six months. Check with the local Better Business Bureau, while keeping in mind they will only have records of agencies that have had reports filed against them.

Find a professional travel consultant who can help make your cruise vacation an unforgettable experience at TravelSense.org's ‘Find a Travel Agent' search directory, or request a free trip quote online.
ABOUT ASTA
ASTA's (American Society of Travel Agents) mission is to facilitate the business of selling travel through effective representation, shared knowledge and the enhancement of professionalism. ASTA seeks a retail travel marketplace that is profitable, growing and a rewarding place to work, invest and do business.

Travel Tips Quarterly From Your Trusted Travel Advisor

Being your travel advisor is more than offering you enchanting vacations to the far reaches of the globe. It also involves offering you personal support and helpful advice to enhance all your travel experiences, whether near or far.  Visit us on Facebook for our latest Travel Tips.  Or send us an email to be added to our email and/or mailing list. 

Sydney and Istanbul make Top Ten Hot Spot List for First Time

ASTA’s 2011 “Hot Spots for Summer” survey found that London, Rome, Paris and Cancun remained the top four choices for Americans for the eighth consecutive year. The survey, which asked ASTA travel agents what destinations were hot for this summer season, found that Western European destinations are the most popular overall with six cities in the top 10.

Rounding out the top 10 city hot spots were Punta Cana, Dublin, Barcelona, Venice, Sydney and Istanbul. This year was the first time that Sydney and Istanbul have joined the top 10. Last year, Istanbul hosted ASTA’s International Destination Expo, which brought more than 1,200 travel professionals together to learn about the culture, attractions and travel business of Turkey and its neighboring countries.

When to Purchase Your Airline Ticket

In this Washington Post article by Christopher Elliott, National georgraphic Traveler magazine's reader advocate, he explains what is going on in the airline insustry today.  Between rising oil prices and diminished seat capacity, it is not that easy to spot a bargain - or even recognize a bargain when you see one.  In the past couple of weeks I have had client fare increase between $50 and $100 with no warning.

If you are planning to vacation this summer, read this article: 

http://www.washingtonpost.com/lifestyle/travel/the-navigator-stop-obsessing-over-airfares-and-buy-now/2011/03/10/ABHBtTl_story.html

Why You Need A Travel Agent

Planning a trip today can be confusing and time consuming. A travel agent not only arranges the various modes of transportation, but a travel agent also may be able to save you money with early booking discounts, special fares, hotel deals and travel advisories. Don't take our word for it. See what the president of Crystal Cruises has to say about using a travel agent.

Benefits of Using a Travel Agent

Save Money! - Strong working relationships with travel suppliers and the latest in computer reservations technology enable travel agents to access the most up-to-date information on how to get you the best value.

Traveler Advocates - Your best interests are the priority. ASTA (The American Society of Travel Agents) has a long-standing record of fighting for consumer rights and ASTA member travel agents are required to adhere to a strict Code of Ethics.

Convenience - The ASTA membership includes travel agents across the country and throughout the world, most of which offer one-stop shopping for all travel arrangements.

Service - ASTA member travel agents are knowledgeable and active in the industry. The Society provides education, training and resource materials to its members to equip them with the tools to offer the highest quality of service.

Agents Will Go the Extra Mile - Agents work for you and will do everything they can to meet your travel needs. Some agents literally go that extra mile to help their clients. One ASTA-member agent even went to Ethiopia to escort two adopted orphans to the US.

http://www.travelsense.org/tips/whyuseanagent.cfm#letter

Australia on the Amazing Race Sunday March 6

Be sure to watch The Amazing Race this Sunday on CBS.

Last week all contestants were racing in the regional township of Broken Hill. In this week’s episode, not to give anything away, they travel back to Sydney on board a certain train - the mighty Indian Pacific!!

We are not sure how much footage of the train they are going to show but if you are interested in visiting Australia and like train travel you may also wish to watch!

WHY VISIT AUSTRALIA?

Australia is the world's largest island, the earth's oldest continent, and a land of awe inspiring beauty. It offers something for everyone.

Try surfing on the East Coast, diving on the Great Barrier Reef, climbing the Sydney Harbour Bridge, sailing in the Whitsundays, camping and rock climbing in Kakadu, hiking in Tasmania, or hot air ballooning over the MacDonnell ranges in Northern Territory.

You might prefer to feed the wild dolphins at Tangalooma, sleep in a Treehouse in the Rainforest, sleep in a tented camp at Ayers Rock, try Jungle Surfing in the Daintree Rainforest, or go animal spotting after sunset in the Outback.

Or you may prefer to stay in 5 star luxury, sample gourmet dining and outstanding wines, attend a performance at the Oprah House, and a sporting match in Melbourne, and enjoy the spectacular scenery along the Great Ocean Road.

Whatever your interest, Australia has something for you. Why not take advantage of the great rates being offered at the moment and plan your next visit to Australia.

Travel Insurance - Do you need it?

When you Need Travel Insurance

• When your Travel arrangements must be being paid for months in advance. If your airline, tour operator or cruise line should default your insurance company will reimburse you for your lost funds so you can rebook or assist you to get back home if you are stranded abroad. You cannot allways count on your credit card for that coverage.

• To protect in case of a major illness or accident which prevents you from travelling, forces you to curtail your trip or requires emergency evacuation to get you to a hospital.

• To protect you in case a loved one suddenly has a heart attack or is rushed to the hospital for some other emergency requiring the cancellation of your trip, or an immediate return from your your destination.

• To assist you in case a major storm or accident prevents you from reaching the airport in time for your flight.

• To help you when a delayed flight results in a lost day at your hotel or the inability to reach a port in time for your cruise.

• To assist should you be robbed or loose their wallet and passport while travelling abroad. A quick call to the insurance company will result in assistance with cancellation of credit cards, cash advances and help with getting your passport replaced.

• Travel insurance also covers repatriation of remains.

When you Might Wish to Skip Insurance
• If you are using frequent flyer miles or staying at a hotel that that will refund your money.

• If you know you can cancel your trip without losing the money you invested.

• Your credit card may offer some travel insurance, so check with your issuer. Companies such as Amex and Visa offer some protection to their customers, but it varies with the type of card you have. Be sure to read the fine print. Credit Cards do not offer the same protection that a travel insurance policy offers and it is sometimes extremely difficult to file a claim with them. http://travelharmony.com/travel_insurance.html

Holiday Travel Tips

Heading out of town for the Holidays? The Number one point to remember is to plan ahead and be prepared.

1-Get to the airport early - minimum 3 hours before international flights and 2 for domestic.
2-Parking will be scarse this time of year and you need to allow a lot more time for finding a space. Better idea: take a taxi, airport shuttle, metro or ask a friend to drive you. If you live far from airport and have an early morning flight, stay at an airport motel the night before and leave the car there. Their van will shuttle you to and from the terminal.
3-Do not throw your loose change and small items from your pocket into the airport tray. Too easy to forget in the rush of security. Have a small plastic bag inside your carryon or purse, and put everything in there. Same goes for your wallet and boarding pass.
4-Check your airline's website for dimensions and weight of bags. Flights are crowded at this time of year and lots of bags are pulled at the gate.
5-If you like to read on overnight flights, get a small reading light that attaches to your book. It's hard to put on the overhead light when others around you are trying to sleep.
6-Never pack your money, passport, credit cards, medicine, trip insurance policy or important contact information in your checked bags. Keep these and a spare set of underwear in your carryon.
7-Remember, Things Happen! If a problem arises with your flight or missing luggage, ask to speak with a supervisor and try to remain calm when speaking with the airline personnel.

Have a Good Time and Happy Holidays!

Oprah Visits Australia

See the Aussies reaction and what Oprah has to say about the Land Downunder

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BC1ToCeSnNo

Holiday Time

While everyone is busy preparing for the holidays, I am busy getting last minute travelers off to their destinations, searching for warm weather vacations for those who want to get away in January or February, and helping young couples plan the upcoming honeymoons.  Its fun and its what I love doing.

How is your season going?