Travel Agent Professional Feb. 2013

Travel Agent Professional February 2013 Issue 22

Britain’s Travel Buzz Goes On

‘The New Mary Rose Museum Alongside HMS Victory’

www.autoeurope.com

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Britain’s Travel Buzz Goes On

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Look to the Rainbow

http://issuu.com/action/page?page=6

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By­Scott­Koepf Vice­President­of­Sales­Avoya­Travel/American­Express

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http://issuu.com/action/page?page=12 Disaster Comes

In Many Forms

By­Les-Lee­Roland Owner­of­The­Package­Deal

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10 Reasons Why! http://issuu.com/action/page?page=16 I like Holland America Line By­Sherry­Laskin Travel­Writer/NACTA­Webinar­Moderator

Showcase

February 2013 Issue 22

Avoya Travel® ...............................................15

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Travelsavers ...................................................22

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Ad Index

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Cover Art: ‘The New Mary Rose Museum Alongside HMS Victory’

Amadeus ......................................IFC Avoya Travel/American Express.......7 Britain Greatdays .........................IBC HostTravelAgency.com ...................9

Travel Agent Professional

Oasis .............................................14 Royal Caribbean Line....................BC Travelsavers.....................................3 Travel Experts, Inc. ........................11

2013

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TAP

By­Paull­Tickner

Travel Agent Professional January 2013 Issue 21

Travel Agent Professional P.O. Box 120198 Staten Island, NY 10312 E-mail: info@travelagentprofessional.com Phone: 718.360.3153

Joel M. Abels

Legend In the Travel Industry April 1927 to January 2007

Ann M. Hoek Publisher/Creative Design ann@travelagentprofessional.com Bonnie Walling Editor Bonnie@travelagentprofessional.com Alan Cohen Vice President marketing Alan@travelagentprofessional.com

Meet Our Editorial Board Mitchell J. Schlesinger Vice President, Sales & Marketing Voyages to Antiquity www.voyagestoantiquity.com Rusty Pickett, ECC Shellback Cruises www.shellbackcruises.com Les-Lee Roland Owner of The Package Deal

Travel Agent Professional has its roots in Home Based Trade, the first magazine of its kind, started by Joel Abels in 2004. Joel and Lenore Abels ran Travel Trade for nearly half a century – it was started by her grandfather, John S. Lewis, and her father, Sidney Lewis, in 1929, and they took the publication over after her grandfather’s passing.

Under Joel’s direction, the company grew to be one of the travel agent industry’s leading publications, reaching more than 45,000 agents throughout North America. It spawned a famous series of trade shows and three monthly magazines – Cruise Trade, Tour Trade and Home Based Trade.

Scott Koepf Vice President of Sales Avoya Travel/ America’s Vacation Center www.joinavoya.com/default.cfm?ref=11583

The Abels also garnered enormous respect – Joel received the Neal Award, called “the Pulitzer Prize of the business press,” for his hard-hitting editorials.

Sherry Laskin, ACC Travel Writer/NACTA Webinar Moderator www.cruisemaven.com

On a personal note, after working with Joel for over a decade and staying 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 his word and believed in his work. There will never be another.

Paull Tickner, Creator of Special Interest Britain pjtickner@yahoo.co.uk www.greatdays.co.uk Sue Shapiro, President Shapiro Travel Resources sue.shapiro@gmail.com www.shapirotravelresources.com

While nobody can replace this industry legend, we’re hoping that this new publication, which reunites the original Home Based Trade editorial board, will be able to carry on his passion for travel and those who sell it.

Ann M. Hoek This online magazine is dedicated to the memory of Joel Abels, Travel Trade's editor and publisher. Joel and his life's work may be gone, but with your help it can live on.

January 2013

The TRAVELSAVERS Difference. ÷ Over 40 years of travel industry success ÷ Full staff of personal business consultants ÷ Unique protected territory system ÷ Excellent preferred supplier relationships ÷ Award-winning suite of marketing programs ÷ Social media tools ÷ Powerful technology solutions ÷ Proprietary cruise booking engine ÷ Website and mobile solutions ÷ Meeting and incentive resources ÷ Hotel program with rich amenities ÷ A full suite of corporate travel solutions ÷ Over 19 travel brands servicing you daily

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4 B y

From Royals to Beatles to Downton Abbey,

P a u l l T i c k n e r

Britain’s Travel Buzz Goes On

However, the Diamond Jubilee of Her Majesty’s Coronation and the arrival of the royal baby are still to come — though I believe it is the continuing popularity of Downton Abbey that’s really keeping it all going.

There is still plenty of travel buzz about Britain. True, the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, the Olympic and Paralympics Games and the Beatles’ 50th anniversary, gave Britain extensive coverage last year.

Unfortunately, demand for admission tickets to Highclere Castle — where much of the show’s action takes place — is making access nigh on impossible unless you know the right people. (I happen to be one of them.)

It’s relatively easy to put together a conventional U.K. tour, but why not be more creative with your offerings and make a name for yourself as the local travel agent who keeps coming up with Britainbound bright ideas?

Paull Tickner, creator of Special Interest Britain, is affiliated with the Greatdays Travel Group. For over 30 years, he has been developing and operating customized niche travel programs for the United Kingdom and Ireland. For more information, visit his Web site at www.greatdays.co.uk and E-mail him at pjtickner@yahoo.co.uk

Februray 2013

Highclere Castle

5 Salisbury, where you can pick up a circular tour from the station that takes you to Stonehenge, Old Sarum and Salisbury Cathedral. You can stay as long as you like at each place because another bus will along shortly;

For example, for families travelling across the pond in July and August, offer them a London/Paris combination, which includes all the must-do sightseeing in both capitals, a side trip to The Making of Harry Potter in England, an adventure on the Eurostar and Disneyland Paris.

With so much to see in London, to get the most out of their short time over here, you might suggest they plan some of their days around a theme.

For example: Royal London, courtesy of the Fat Tire Bike Company. I’d no idea you could see and do so much by using the Royal Parks and other official cycle routes, all under the watchful eye of an entertaining tour guide who’s also on a bike!

Military London, which might bring together the Cabinet War Rooms, the Household Cavalry Museum and the Royal Mews;

Bath, where the City Sightseeing open top bus picks up from the station and acts as your ‘taxi’ for visits to the Roman Baths, the Jane Austen Centre and other attractions; Oxford, another city on the list for Harry Potter fans which also has connections to Alice in Wonderland and J.R.R. Tolkien; Portsmouth and the Historic Dockyard, a must for anyone who likes clambering over historic ships and is interested in 600 years of maritime history.

None of these journeys is difficult. The trains run frequently, are very easy to deal with and, more importantly, give your customers much more time to see and enjoy their chosen destinations. Your clients dictate the timetable — no tour operators ordering them to get back on the bus. (continued on page 6)

Dra matic London, with a tour of Shakespeare’s Globe Theatre, an actor-led tour of the Theatre Royal Drury Lane and an evening performance of the hit musical Mathilda; Discovering the Thames, highlighted by a roundtrip river cruise and a visit to the National Maritime Museum in Greenwich.

If you’re based in London for 6-7 nights, let the train take the strain and give you longer stays in cities such as:

Lindisfarne Gospels Durham 1 July to 30 September (continued on page 20)

Travel Agent Professional

6 The Royal Park

Wedgwood Visitor Centre Master Craftsmen

In addition, it’s still not too late for garden-loving clients to take a customized tour to the Centenary Chelsea Flower Show (May 21-25).

Four-star London accommodations are very scarce at this time, but can still be found!

Oxford is obser ving the 50th anniversary of the passing of C.S. Lewis, Durham is hosting an amazing exhibition of the Lindisfarne Gospels from July 1 to Sept. 30 and the Chester Mystery Plays are being staged in the Cathedral from June 26 to July 13 — and will not be performed again until the summer of 2018.

Railway buffs are getting all steamed up about the unique bringing together of the six remaining and majestic Mallard Class steam locos at the National Railway Museum in York.

Chester Mystery Plays

Liverpool will be celebrating more Beatles anniversaries this year, along with its annual Mathew Street Music Festival (Aug. 26-27), Europe’s largest Beatles event.

With the improved exchange rate, shopping is back on the agenda (the pound was worth U.S. $1.56 on Valentine’s Day). For example, visitors to Manchester can plan a Girls’ Getaway to china — the breakable kind — and hunt down internationally known brands such as Wedgwood, Spode, Portmeirion and Royal Doulton. (Nonstop flights to Manchester are available from Atlanta, Chicago, Newark, JFK, Philadelphia and Washington, DC.) Finally, for a truly memorable England experience of real ales, sensibly priced menus and charming cozy bedrooms in picture perfect surroundings, find out about some new Country Pub based tours. You can sell these not only as customized land-only tours, but also as pre- and postcruise extensions.

So, capitalize on the continuing buzz about Britain. Consider taking Visit Britain’s BritAgent online course and be more imaginative with your proposals to England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales.

Februray 2013

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8 By Scott

For years, there have been many

Look to the Rainbow

Koepf

pundits who have predicted the demise of travel agents. Many of these same clairvoyants have claimed that they lead companies that hold the secret to success. It can be daunting to determine who to believe and more importantly who to align yourself with.

This is not a business anyone should try to conquer alone.

There are excellent consortia, franchises, and host agencies who can help you reach your goals through support and unique ser-

Scott Koepf VP of Sales Avoya Travel/American Express www.JoinAvoya.com

vices. The question is which company should you make a significant commitment to?

The obvious answer, which I have suggested numerous times, is to do your research and ask as many questions as you can possibly think of. No doubt that will help you hone in on the right organizations in terms of what they currently offer. However, it may not shed light on where they are going.

When pondering these weighty issues, I turn to the resource that can bring true clarity: musical theatre. I believe the lessons we can garner from these entertaining performances can serve us well in our lives and our businesses. In this case, it is imperative to understand that where a company is going may be much more important than where it is at.

Having sat on innumerable panels over the years, I have spouted out the features and benefits of my company alongside my friendly competitors who do the same. When the panels are done it is clear that we all have solid companies that provide excellent service and support. So what then should you look for to help determine the direction to take with your business? (continued on page 10)

Februray 2013

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10 Look for leadership, & when you find it — “Glory time’s coming for to stay”!

In a word: Leadership. In a song: Look, look Look to the rainbow.

Follow it over the hill And the stream.

Look, look Look to the rainbow.

Follow the fellow Who follows a dream.

Follow the fellow, Follow the fellow, Follow the fellow Who follows a dream.

Finian’s Rainbow is a musical filled with fantasy, but it also provides sage wisdom as to who to follow. In other words, beyond the programs, education and technology, ask about what the vision is for the company. There is no shortage of great books on leadership and when they list the most valuable traits for a great leader, usually at the top of the list is vision. So why “follow the fellow who follows a dream”? Because vision is a dream defined.

When you look for a company to align with or even who to listen to for advice, ask them about their vision. All of your choices and decisions in your business should not be about today, but where will it take you in the future.

When a leader has vision and can articulate it, then following becomes enjoyable and exciting. Another song from this musical perfectly describes what you can look forward to if you do indeed, “follow the fellow who follows a dream”!

On that great come and get it day, Won’t it be fun when worry is done and money is hay.

That’s the time things’ll come your way On that great, great come and get it day.

Glory time’s comin’ for to stay “Come and get it” day.

Look for leadership, and when you find it — “Glory time’s coming for to stay”!

Februray 2013

Travel Agent Professional

12 Disaster Comes B y L e s - L e e

Here we go again, another cruise

R o l a n d

line disaster. The media coverage is escalating, and many agents are going to get phone calls asking about safety, cancelling cruises, and maybe asking when the rates are going to drop.

Les-Lee Roland Owner of The Package Deal

How many more disasters can Carnival handle? This is the 3rd fire in recent years, and along with the Costa Concordia, it affects our business as well. The Costa accident has certainly affected the European cruise pricing means European cruise prices are lower than ever.

In addition, media coverage of that disaster, coupled with the high air flight costs, means cruise lines have to offer deals in order to fill those berths. One example is Celebrity’s recent offering of pre-paid gratuities, $300 onboard credit, and a beverage package. This can total over $1,700 per cabin in perks. I don’t know about you, but my clients don’t spend over $1,200 on beverages — but that’s the value Celebrity quotes, and it did work.

The most important message for agents to give to their clients is percentages. The latest fire affected 4,000 people. That sounds like a lot, and I am cer-

tainly not dismissing what people are going through. But considering how many thousand people are cruising throughout the world each week, this is a rogue happening. It is still the safest mode of travel.

Your clients may ask you about travel insurance.

Guess what — policies don’t cover what the Triumph passengers went through, since it’s not technically an interruption. Carnival is picking up the tabs for travel delay for return flights, as well as compensation for this cruise, a future cruise, some shipboard expenses, as well as an additional $500 bonus.

Let me compare this to another disaster I recently experienced with a cruise line — not Carnival. I define disaster as any serious problem, beyond my control, but I still have to bear the fallout of it.

Last April, after I escorted eight group leaders on

Februray 2013

13 In Many Forms a sailing, I contracted for group space, with meeting areas reserved at designated times, throughout the cruise. Everything was spelled out. I even increased the size of the groups, since I sold the benefits of sailing on this particular cruise line. It’s known for great service, great food, and wonderful entertainment.

I will say that working with the group department had been easy. When rates came down for the sailing, some people were rebooked at the new rate, while others got upgrades. However, the people who had booked balconies got nothing.

First complaint!

The second complaint tion 4 days before the complete printout of meeting space. That’s upside down.

was brought to my attensailing, when I asked for a everything, including the when my life was turned

I found that the meeting room in my contract — I emphasize the word “contract” — had been taken away. Why? Because a full-ship charter was booked following my sailing, and that company needed the meeting space.

When I complained about it, I was told there was small print on the contract stating the cruise line had the right to change or cancel meeting space as needed, which they did after they had received all the final payments. Furthermore, the cruise line advocate assigned to my account never had the decency to even call me.

Now my group, along with another agency’s group, were out in the cold, affecting over 200 people. I couldn’t get anywhere with the group department, so I sent panic E-mails to very high people at the cruise line, begging for help. I immediately got responses and carbon copies of E-mails they sent out ordering various departments to work on this 24/7 for the few days left before the sailing. I admit I was impressed with their taking action.

This, along with an emergency at home, put me into such distress, that I had to make a Sophie’s Choice to either not go on the cruise and have someone else in charge, or keep my commitment to my clients. I opted for the latter, escorting one of my three chartered buses, driving the five hours to the ship, thinking I could work out the problem, and immediately leave and go back home.

Not too easy. The group coordinator on board was torn, working with a wedding party, the two groups being affected by this change, and the future full ship charter.

Well, the charter won. I never got the contracted group space. My clients did get an additional shipboard credit. Some of the events I had scheduled had to be cancelled. The food was mediocre, the service in the dining room below what we had experienced previously from that line.

The clients who paid full rates were very upset that no compensation was given to them since the rates were lowered — a lot — after final payment, (continued on page

Travel Agent Professional

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OASIS OASIS ((Outside Outside Agent Agent Sales Sales IIntegration ntegration S System) ystem) were available. They had to get the ship ready for the full ship charter.

A

cI cor ding toupOsailing ASIS ther e arthe e group — they would O A S I S also gives you access to its proprietary wound with ten things you need to sucintranets which contain volumes of informacaused havoc. onboard I am stilltion getting with complaints.

I have chave eed in this business 1). The if I had left. No one about calls cruises , hotels , destinations , suppliprobahighest split pos , promotions the latest y news. my bookedcommission on the two future group dates I had bly lost ers a few of theseand clients.

Thisindustr has affected It’s easy and the system facilitates booking as sible. 2). tier cruise & land commisarranged in advance. No one even bought future bottomwline, my sanity, yand my confidence in ever ell. It also sions. 3). automated, and client ou a number of different ays to booking communigroups c ate w i t h keting.certificates.

4). SophisticatWhen ed CRM. escorting 5). High level n B o a rd centric mar youthis r peemajor rs. Thecruise Bulletiline. sup- win cruise myof groups with port. 6). Quick search capabilities. 7). Extra client amenities Forum through Signature Travel Network is a great way to learn the past, I have always had 80% or more in sales & special pricing. 8). Personalized branding. 9). Communica ommunica- and return with over 8,000 Signature agents. And, OASISAgent from certificates. not fire, lackteofonfood, groupdisaster allows itswas tunities. 10). The desire to succeed. FacebookThis tion and net worthose king oppor agents anddue BDMto ’s toacommunica a regularsmelly basis, along with its y ear ly S ales M eeting in Las halls, and no air conditioning.

This was due OA S I S w i l l p r o v i d e yo u w i t h t h e f i r s t 9 ! W hy r e i nve n t thealrend theit. cruise was deplorable. For distowsthe two agents within buying over 200 O A S I S allo you tfact o tapthat eadyofhas powerclients , the wheelEven . OASIS into mor e than $5 billion with ac c ess t o o v er a 1000 g r oup sailings and a 700-plus-member embarking, my clients were assigned a meeting on board meant nothing to the cruise line when a O A S I S pays all agents 100% commission, and you will make hotel program, both with value-added amenities your clients. so ing we because could all leave together to land get onto full ship charter, sailing after us, decided to book its pr ef red cruise and each book more on place T h e p h i l o sophy our at OAcontracts SIS is “ ur swere supplier cour ommissions ar e the highest in the industr y – up t o uccess signed. is our success”, so you can chartered buses. I arrived early to reconfirm after 30%. O A S I S also helps you grow your bookings with custom- expect one-on-one attention. OASIS has all the things that you theeswheelchairs needed this group, will need to succeed. All you need is the desire. Call OASIS today! izable websit , direct mail, aut omatedfor email marelderly keting, and a and personalizIed socialthe media pla locked. m that Iinwas tegratold tes with Face- had found room everyone So much for a cruise line being our partner and lovbegin your future in travel, please contact OASIS at 800-613book. help you keep track of it all, O A S I S provides you with to get off on their own, right away. No wheelchairs ing to work with travel agents. It is still a disaster. your own branch of Clientbase.

8380 or visit www.OASISAgent.com.

Februray 2013 Consortium & Host Agency Guide 2012

HO HOST ST A AGENCIES GENCIES O OVERVIEW VERVIEW

and the cruise line no longer protects them.

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Showcase

Avoya Travel Wins Celebrity Cruises’ Top Travel Agency Award Avoya Named Overall National Accounts Partner of the Year Avoya Travel®, one of the leading travel companies in North America and beyond, today announced that Celebrity Cruises named the company its 2012 Overall National Accounts Partner of the Year. This is the highest Travel Partner of the Year award given

by Celebrity Cruises. Avoya® received the honor based on the company’s unparalleled sales performance in 2012, outstanding customer service, and professional Network of Independent Agencies.

“Avoya Travel and its elite Network of Independent Agencies is an essential element of Celebrity Cruises’ success and they are well-deserving of our top award,” said Dondra Ritzenthaler, Senior Vice President of Sales for Celebrity Cruises. “Avoya Travel continues to impress us with remarkable sales, customer service, and innovation; and we look forward to continuing to work together to create extraordinary cruise vacation experiences for customers around the globe.”

Dondra Ritzenthaler and Cris DeSouza, Channel Strategy Manager for Celebrity Cruises presented the award to Avoya Co-Presidents Brad and Van Anderson during the company’s National Conference in December. It is the second time Avoya has received Celebrity Cruises’ Overall National Accounts Partner of the Year award, previously being recognized in 2009.

“Avoya focuses on offering unique advantages to its preferred supplier partners and Network of Independent Agencies that facilitate greater success as well as provide customers with the best value and experience possible,” said Brad Anderson. “This award signifies Celebrity Cruises’ continued support for their travel agency partners and on behalf of our Network, we are honored to be named Overall National Accounts Partner of the Year.”

Avoya (www.JoinAvoya.com) has a long-standing reputation in the travel industry for being one of the top-producing and most innovative travel companies worldwide. The company has been a part of the American Express Travel Representative Network for 25 years and has an elite Network of independently owned and operated travel agencies.

Avoya has received other notable acco-

lades, including being named ‘Travel Agency of the Year’, by Celebrity Cruises, Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruises, Royal Caribbean, American Express, Oceania Cruises, MSC Cruises, and Brendan Vacations.

Avoya has also been featured for its groundbreaking technology, innovative Live Leads™ program, and leadership in travel by top industry publications, including Agent @ Home, Travel Agent, Travel Pulse, Travel Weekly, TravelAge West, Vacation Agent, and more.

Travel agency owners and professionals interested in growing their business should contact Avoya Travel at 800521-2597 or visit www.JoinAvoya.com. Travelers interested in booking their next vacation with Avoya Travel, should call 800753-1463 or visit www.AvoyaTravel.com, or for customers located in Canada, call 866935-4051 or visit ca.AvoyaTravel.com.

About Avoya Travel Avoya Travel® (www.JoinAvoya.com) is one of the largest and most awarded travel companies in North America and beyond. As an American Express Travel Representative for 25 years, Avoya® is deeply committed to Integrity and Professionalism™, quality service, and success in every aspect of planning cruises and vacations. With hundreds of Independent Agencies in its Network, Avoya provides exclusive discounts, amenities, and first-class customer service to travelers worldwide.

Travelers interested in booking their next vacation should call 800-753-1463 or visit www.AvoyaTravel.com. For customers located in Canada, call 866-935-4051 or visit ca.AvoyaTravel.com. Travel agency owners and professionals interested in growing their business should contact JoinAvoya at 800-521-2597 or visit www.JoinAvoya.com.

Travel Agent Professional

16 10 Reasons Why! often asked what cruise line I like

best…and why. Truth be told, I don’t have a favorites. Meaning, each cruise line has its own unique features and amenities. It is this list of out from the leisure armada circumnavigating the globe at any given moment.

in the last few months so I’ve been able to

A C C

I’ve sailed on Holland America ships quite a bit

L a s k i n ,

strengths that enable each cruise line to stand

S h e r r y

“favorite” cruise line, but I do have cruise line

B y

I’m

track consistency within a short period of time.

Here goes:

Sherry Laskin Travel Writer/NACTA Webinar Moderator www.cruisemaven.com

10.

An Evening at Le Cirque in The Pinnacle Grill Specialty Restaurant: Under the guidance of Master Chef Rudi Sodamin, Holland America already has a winner with their award-winning Pinnacle Grill restaurant aboard all of their fifteen ships. Now, in a new collaboration with famed restauranteur and founder of Le Cirque Restaurants, Sirio Macciono, at least one night during a cruise, the Pinnacle Grill is transformed into an at-sea version of New York’s legendary Le Cirque restaurant. Every facet of the dining experience, from menu creations, wine selections, place settings and the restaurant ambiance all work in together to recreate a true Le Cirque dining experience. Even the incredible Crème Brûlée was as close to the real deal at Le Cirque as I remembered from a few years back. Not to be missed, if it’s in your budget. $79 per-person for the dinner. Wine is additional.

January 2013

17

9.

The Traditional Wrap-Around Promenade Deck: With so many new super-huge ships appearing on the scene, it’s a wonder how the cruise lines manage to pay for them. One way is to do away with public spaces and install more cabins and more pay-per-use (i.e. nickel and dime) venues to increase revenue. While that is all lovely and nice and a sure money stream, it’s nice to see that one cruise line is keeping with seagoing tradition. Holland America Line can boast of having a wrap-around promenade deck on all of their ships. Not just a narrow outdoor passageway or a walk-around interjected with mandatory stair climbing. This wrap-around teak deck is as wide and openair as promenades were in the days of the grand ocean liners. (continued on page 18)

Travel Agent Professional

18 8.

On Deck For the Cure: Once on every cruise, passengers can lace up their walking shoes and participate in the Susan G. Komen “On Deck for the Cure” 5K fundraising walk. This philanthropic event takes place where else, but on the beautiful Promenade. There is no speed record to be set, and it’s ok not to complete the 3.125 miles. There are water stations along the way, you don’t have to worry about veering off course and Rosie Ruiz isn’t there to short-cut through the doors from one side of the ship to the other. There are no winners or losers. It’s a great way to donate and get in some much needed exercise after eating your way through your cruise. The cost is $15 and you’ll receive an On Deck for the Cruise t-shirt and a pink rubber wristband. Holland America will donate at least 75% of the total donation to Susan G. Komen Foundation.

7.

The Neptune Lounge: Everyone likes a little pampering and special treatment. Suite guests are no different. So to give the Deluxe Verandah Suite and Penthouse Verandah Suite guests a place to call home, Holland America has the exclusive Neptune Lounge just for them. The Neptune Lounge offers a continental breakfast, snacks, hors d’oeuvres and refreshments at various times of the the day.

There is a large screen television, plush chairs and sofas, a small library and it’s wifi-enabled. Similar in concept to Royal Caribbean‘s overly popular and at times overly crowded Concierge Lounge for toptier past passengers and suite guests. The Neptune Lounge is much more plush and low-key and from what I observed, has a larger selection of refreshments and light snacks than Royal Caribbean or even Celebrity. But then again, the Neptune Lounge serves only those in the highest suites, while Royal Caribbean and Celebrity offer this to a wider range of guests.

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6.

Age Demographic: For years, Holland America has always been thought to cater to the older guest. By older, I mean 65 and up. And up. Not so true anymore. On a recent Halloween cruise aboard the young Eurodam, the scene on All Hallo’s Eve looked more like Bourbon Street than a cruise ship. It was a partyer’s haven, but nothing raucous or rambunctious. Just amazingly clever costumes (more than a few Carmen Mirandas) and good times. Ok…I’ll admit it. I’m getting older with each passing cruise. I like to head back to my cabin before midnight and get there without staggering and bouncing off of the cabin doors in the hallway. So, while the demographic for Holland America may seem older than, say, Carnival or Norwegian Cruise Lines, it depends on the season, the holidays and your frame of mind. I’m tired of hairy chest and belly flop contests (though they can be fun to watch.) Holland America’s passengers are generally fun, welltraveled, young at heart and well-mannered and mostly over 50.

5.

Bread Pudding: I’m sure there’s something that your mom cooked that to you was the perfect comfort food, time and time again. Holland America has something similar with the rich and buttery Bread Pudding. Offered every afternoon at lunch, this is another reason why people enjoy returning to Holland America; for their favorite comfort food. This infamous and sweet Bread Pudding has been a staple in the Lido Buffet for as long as I can remember. Presented in a covered tray and accompanied by a slightly warm, light vanilla sauce, it’s nearly a food group unto itself. (continued on page 20)

Travel Agent Professional

20 4.

Signature of Excellence: A $566 million investment to renovate, refurbish and enhance each and every ship with upgraded plush Eurotop mattress and high-count cotton bed linens, flatscreen TVs and bathroom enhancements ranging from deluxe bathrobes to lighted, magnifying make-up mirrors to new shower heads and granite counter tops.

Public areas on some of the older ships now have the same lounges and show venues as their newer counterparts. What were once smaller, boxy public areas (bars, especially) have been modified and are now more open, have a wonderful traffic flow and a feeling of spaciousness. The new mattresses, called the Mariner Dream Beds, are as comfy and cozy as the top of the line bedding at any upscale hotel.

3.

Cabana Club: This is probably one of my favorite features and it’s only offered on a couple of Holland America ships. They’ve gone the extra yard to create a very private area where you can rent your own cabana for a day or the entire cruise. There are only maybe a couple of dozen of these highly sought-after cabanas on the Eurodam and Nieuw Amsterdam. For only $199/week, you can rent your own covered shelter on either the pool deck or overlooking the pool deck. You’ll get bar service, cushioned lounge chairs and a sort-of bed, fresh fruit, bottled water, clean towels and a sense of exclusivity. If you like to be outdoors but far from the madding crowd, this is the best deal ever. Think about. You can book an inside or oceanview stateroom to save money, and then rent a beautifully designed cabana where you can spend as much time taking in the sun and sea air as you’d like to do. This is truly a special feature and one that you need to reserve either online before you leave or immediately upon boarding.

Februray 2013

21

2.

The 48-Hour Rule: That’s my nickname for what I think is a stroke of genius by Holland America. During the first 48-hours of the cruise, self-service at the Lido Buffet is off-limits to all passengers. You’re not allowed to even pick up a plate! Everything is handed to you as you request it and then when you reach the end of the buffet line, you take your plate (or someone can assist) and enjoy your meal. This is such a brilliant idea that I don’t know why all cruise lines don’t adapt to it. It’s the first 48-hours that’s the crucial incubation time for Norwalk (norovirus.) By not allowing snotty, soiled hands grabbing the serving utensils or the tantalizing fruit tart sans tongs, so much of the spreading of germs is certainly avoided.

And, my #

1

favorite reason to sail Holland America?

You Can Get a Full Breakfast from Room Service on Debarkation Morning!: Debarkation morning is always stressful. Last minute late night packing, organizing and settling accounts and then to trudge up to the Lido Buffet or sit patiently in the main dining room isn’t my preference. It’s such a relief to put the hangtag breakfast order on the doorknob at night and know that I can still have a somewhat unfettered couple of hours in my cabin to enjoy my coffee et al. Eggs, lox and bagels, croissants and fresh OJ and coffee – it’s a full menu, not just a roll, a pat of butter and lukewarm coffee. Saying goodbye to your ship is tough enough. Having a nice breakfast in your cabin or on the verandah at the end of your cruise eases the passage from vacation to home.

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TRAVELSAVERS Travel Professionals

Explore The Other Side Of The World On A Spectacular New Zealand Experience TRAVELSAVERS travel professionals from the US and Canada recently enjoyed an 8 day educational experience through New Zealand. Sponsored by Tourism New Zealand, ATEED, Destination Queenstown, Northland, Hamilton & Waikato Tourism and Rotorua Tourism, the 16 Canadian and US TRAVELSAVERS travel professionals in attendance experienced many of the very best sights, sounds and experiences the country has to offer.

From left to right: Joan MacKenzie, TRAVELSAVERS, Paul Goetz, Preston Travel, Doris Stephenson, Vista Travel, Ken Stewart, Crowfoot Travel Participants arrived via Air New Zealand and kicked off the FAM with a few days in Auckland before splitting up into two groups. The groups enjoyed accommodations at Novotel Auckland Airport Hotel, SKYCITY Hotel, Great Sights on Ipipiri, Copthorne Hotel & Resort Bay of Islands, Millennium Hotel Rotorua, Crown Plaza Queenstown and Millbrook Resort. Trip highlights included:

North Island Guided tour - Auckland War Memorial Museum Sky Tower Walk/Jump – SkyCity Hotel, Auckland America’s Cup Match Racing - Explore New Zealand, Auckland Waiheke Island Wine Tour - Fullers Ipipiri overnight cruise - Fullers GreatSights, Bay of Islands Copthorne Hotel Restaurant – Waitangi Treaty ground Interactive, cultural - Taiamai Tours & Heritage Journey, Bay of Islands Hobbiton Movie Set Tour, Waikato region Volcanic Air Safari, Rotorua Eco Thermal Tour - Elite Adventures, Rotorua Native forest zip line tour - Rotorua Canopy Tours Rotorua catamaran tour onboard luxury yacht - Pure Sale Away Polynesian Spa, Rotorua Authentic Maori dinner/evening show – Te Po - Te Puia, Rotorua

South Island Skyline Gondola and Luge, Queenstown Dart River Jet Safari, Queenstown Cruise of Millford Sound fiords – Southern Discoveries Wine cave and cheesery tour - Gibson Valley Winery Lord of the Rings Wakatipu Basin tour - Nomad Safaris Millbrook Resort, 5 star, 4 season, golf and spa resort

“New Zealand is a spectacular destination that does an excellent job integrating its culture into a fun and memorable vacation,” says Kathryn MazzaBurney,

Executive

Vice

President of Sales and Service for TRAVELSAVERS. “Travel professionals can expect to find something to suit the tastes of all travelers in New Zealand, and can be reassured that their clients will be in good hands with friendly people, breathtaking surroundings and exceptional experiences.”

To find out more about how to become part of the TWIN global network, independent travel agencies can visit www.twintravelmanagement.com, email twinsales@travelsavers.com, or call 516-624-0500 x5080.

Februray 2013

Welcome to the exciting world of Special Interest Britain, which will help you to identify, develop and convert untapped sources of new business into high yield, customised groups, both large and small.

We’re the experts you’ve been looking for if your niche markets include: •

Girls Getaways

•

3-6 night itineraries to London, Bath & the Cotswolds; quilting, embroidery and needlework.

•

Garden clubs; herb, rose and other specialist societies; Master Gardeners; flower arrangers.

•

Regular and specialist bookstores for murder/mystery; friends of libraries; English teachers.

The Performing Arts

•

Fund raisers for friends of the theatre, symphony, and opera; Gilbert and Sullivan societies.

The Visual Arts

•

Museums and art galleries; watercolour painters; continuing education college.

Christian Heritage

•

Episcopal, Baptist, Catholic, Methodist and Presbyterian choirs and congregations.

Family travel

•

Tailor made itineraries to London and the countryside.

Pre and post cruise extensions

•

Add-ons for Southampton, Dover and Harwich arrivals and departures

Gardens, Stately Homes and Castles Literary Britain

The Great Outdoors

Golf, cycling, walking, steam train enthusiasts.

For over 35 years, we’ve been gaining EXPERIENCE through designing and operating often complex tailor made programmes and we have acquired an almost encyclopedic KNOWLEDGE of Britain, both on and off the beaten track. We also have a very long list of UK/Ireland CONNECTIONS who deliver those special touches to your chosen itineraries, and some GREAT RATES thanks to our handling over 80,000 passengers each year.

Our tours carry three distinctive hall marks: •

They TRAVEL LESS so that your customers can SEE MORE

•

Are often for SMALL GROUPS of 15-20 people

•

Are enhanced by memorable VALUE ADDED EXPERIENCES

As everything we do is designed to meet your client’s interests, time frame and budget, let’s start talking about how we can help you to harness the potential from your chosen niche market(s).

For further information please email: pjtickner@yahoo.co.uk

Greatdays UK Incoming

where travel agents ALWAYS come first Offices in London and Manchester, Great Britain Tel: +44 161 928 9286 Fax: +44 161 928 9911 www.greatdays.co.uk

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