Engage: August Issue

A Letter from Michael

Hello Ensemble.

We have had a busy summer for travel, and I hope all of you had some time to make some travel memories of your own. From our first Further Your World FAM trip to Iceland with Silversea to the recent top performer trip aboard the inaugural Explora Journeys trip from Denmark to Iceland (clearly a hot destination for our partners and your clients), we had myriad opportunities to learn, connect, and celebrate.

We know how busy all of you are, but we also believe there are immense benefits in stepping out of the office and coming together for important conversations about tackling future challenges.

That is why I am really excited about this year’s Horizons event in Paris, Las Vegas. In addition to this being the first time that we will bring together the entire consortium, we have worked hard to develop an agenda that focuses on how we must all raise our game and “Level Up!” to address the issues on everyone’s minds. We’ll talk about everything from the impact of AI on the travel industry to how we can and must attract, train and retain new

advisors in response to an industry-wide shortage that happens to coincide with one of the biggest surges in demand for travel professionals. We are very cognizant that four days away from the office can be a challenge, but we are committed to ensuring it’s an investment that will yield strong dividends for you and your business. More information on registration can be found in the ‘Events Snapshot’ section.

Please keep reading for the latest updates on marketing, partner news, and our newest team members.

See you in Vegas!

Michael Johnson President

All Aboard!

Ensemble’s Top Performers Trip, Beyond, with Explora Journeys

Ensemble celebrated its top performers with an all-inclusive weeklong sailing from Denmark to Iceland aboard Explora 1, the first ship to sail as part of the launch of Explora Journeys. As the first in the industry to experience the highly anticipated new luxury cruise brand, the inaugural Ensemble Beyond event included 30 of Ensemble’s exceptional members comprised of owners and managers along with a group of nine top advisors – the first time the consortium expanded the group to recognize individual members. A group of 25 Ensemble partners also joined the trip to commemorate the accomplishments of this stellar group.

Congratulations to all of our 2022 Ensemble top performers!

In partnership with Explora, the journey began in Copenhagen with port stops in the United Kingdom and Iceland. As part of the experience, guests had a chance to explore the Orkney Islands off the coast of Scotland,

a World Heritage Site, and Reykjavik, Iceland

hiked the lava fields, explored the Blue Lagoon, enjoyed an excursion to see whales and puffins.

Ensemble top performers attending Beyond event aboard the maiden voyage of Explora I Chris Austin, Chief Sales Officer, Explora Journeys with Michael Johnson, President of Ensemble

Journeys (right) Ensemble

1. Andrew Jones, Director, Travel Partner Relations, Nadiya Makarenko SVP, Travel Edge Network, Jennifer Dzialo, SVP, Partner Relations, and Michael Johnson, President

2. Spinning the globe with the women of Ensemble and the Master of Explora I – from left to right: Laura Gregory; Wendy Romanow, VP of Partnership Marketing; Kristina Boyce, SVP of Operations; Jennifer Dzialo, SVP of Partner Relations; Shahla Lalani, SVP, Marketing, Navigatr Group; and Selena Melani, Master of Explora I

3. Ensemble top performers attending Beyond event aboard the maiden voyage of Explora I 4.

Iceland where they Lagoon, and puffins.

ADX Updates

We Bring the ADX Training to Your Office

If you would like hands-on ADX training like this, please complete the following form and your Ensemble Member Director will reach out with details and next steps.

ADX Training Request

Further ADX Training and Support

New to ADX? Our ADX Training team is here to provide you with one-on-one support. Whether you have general questions, require troubleshooting or want additional support in completing a booking, we are here to help!

Register now for your one-on-one appointment.

“

I find ADX very easy to browse in, good commissionable fares and net rates. Customer service is responsive and efficient and makes work way easier.”

- Nuria Gonzalez, Odenza Vacations

Member Relation Director, Mike Crosson and ADX Training Manager, Jasmine Prince, hit the road in Seattle to visit Thomson Travel, Admiral of the Fleet, and Professional Travel. During their visits they were able to showcase ADX and train hands-on.

Advisor Profile Updates

We are constantly updating ADX based on your feedback, and we are excited to announce an all-new Advisor Profile tool to customize ADX for your business needs offering:

• Same functionality, brand new wrapper

• Improved navigation style

• Enhanced branding opportunities giving advisors more control over their client itineraries

For a sneak peek check out this video.

My Team Page Updates

Management will be getting a refreshed My Teams Page offering:

• New look for manager’s team profile

• More available data around advisor accounts

• Set up regulatory details, and suggested service fees

For training on the New Advisor Profile changes, and the Management My Team page please check out the available ADX training in U of E under ADX Toolbox!

New ADX Branding Advisor Profile

Our Further Your World FAM program has taken off with a bang, and our inaugural trip with Silversea to Iceland has already garnered some buzz. We are thrilled that Canadian Travel Press, Insider Travel Report, PAX News, and Travel Industry Today have all covered our successful launch. The response was perfectly aligned with our intentions for the program as our hand-selected advisors were engaged and able to embrace every aspect of the experience from the ship, excursions, S.A.L.T lab, and in-destination training.

“The Further Your World program is top shelf and I highly encourage other members to take advantage of these opportunity to participate and learn more about the partners we work with as members Ensemble. The experience was wonderful all the way around including the breathtaking scenery around Iceland and the Faroe Islands.”

- Sandra Brown, owner of Travel Dreams by Sandra.

UPCOMING FAMS:

AMA Waterways – September

Featuring a cruise along the Mekong River through Cambodia and Vietnam (Open)

Apply Now

Egypt&Beyond – September

An immersive experience to learn about ancient Egypt (Closed)

G Adventures – October

An exploration of the culture, nature, and people of Ecuador with an optional extension to the Galapagos (Closed)

Intrepid – February 2024

An Antarctica Adventure (Open)

Apply Now

2024 FAM itineraries are in development, but in the meantime, you can check out the Further Your World FAM page on the Member Portal to learn more about the program and our offerings. Plus, stay up to date and gain first access to available itineraries and travel perks by joining our FYW FAM distribution list.

The trip was attended by: Diana Hecler Work of D. Tours Travel, Cindy Liberatore of Van Zile Travel, Sandra Brown of Travel Dreams

by Sandra, Stacy Evos of A Girls’ Gotta Go, Lucy McManiman of Voyages Nomades Inc, Claudia Wisdom-Good of JETSET Wisdom, Alan Arsenault of Cruise Authority Canada, Simmy Lewis of Travel Sensations, Martina Mizzi of Bob Family Travel Team – TravelOnly. Thank you to our wonderful Silversea host Laurie Bohn.

The group during our Welcome Reception onboard Silver Moon.

Events Snapshot

At Horizons in November, we will help you Level Up your game to ensure your professional success in the ever-changing world of travel. Dynamic keynote presentations paired with 1:1 networking and professional development opportunities will help you meet the challenges of today while uncovering the emerging trends of tomorrow – you will leave a trailblazer in the industry at the forefront of shaping the future of global exploration.

AGENCY OWNERS:

You would have received your invitation with registration by now, please check your inbox and spam. If you haven’t, please reach out to events@ensembletravel.com for your specific registration information.

Advisors and ICs: Register Here!

Your registration includes all meals, snacks, most drinks, education, team activity, dineouts, and evening events. For members, airfare and hotels not included. Hotels can be booked directly here.

Event registration closes September 15th, 2023.

Shred into Ski Season with Club Med’s New All-Inclusive Ski Resorts and Offerings

Club Med, the pioneer of the all-inclusive concept, will debut three new mountain resorts in December 2022, further establishing Club Med as the leading global ski operator. New resorts include:

Club Med Tignes, French Alps, Club Med Val d’Isère, French Alps Club Med Kiroro, Hokkaido Japan

All-inclusive ski getaways with Club Med can provide families a savings upwards of $8,000. Travelers looking to save even more can take advantage of Club Med’s Ski Getaways Sale, offering up to 45% off all-inclusive mountain escapes in Canada and the Alps. Club Med ensures a worry-free vacation including accommodations, lift tickets, group lessons, Children’s’ Clubs for ages 4-17, après-ski activities, and all-day gourmet dining.

The Ski Getaways Sale is open for bookings now through October 12, 2022, with travel dates from December 2, 2022 to April 9, 2023 for Club Med Québec and November 20, 2022 to May 6, 2023 for Club Med resorts in the Alps. Kids under 4 stay free.

Club Med Tignes, French Alps

Club Med Val d’Isère, French Alps

Club Med Kiroro, Hokkaido Japan

Member Marketing Insider: All About Range

Introducing a refreshed Range Best!

Following the launch of the summer issue of Range comes an updated Range Best, filled with travel tips, advice and roundups to get your customers planning their next getaways.

In the upcoming Adventure + Wellness issue, we spotlight trending destinations and activities,

. gather the latest travel health and wellness advice, and hear stories from a handful of top adventure experts.

Watch your inbox for more on the Adventure + Wellness issue of Range Best, coming soon!

What do you think of the new Range?

Earlier this month, we launched the summer issue of Range, featuring a brand-new look and feel designed to transport your customers through striking photography and immersive storytelling. Find the digital issue here and everything you need to promote it, from the cover image and embed code to links to individual articles, in the Range Assets section of the member portal.

We would love to hear your thoughts! Share your feedback at marketing@ensembletravel.com.

Inside Scoop: See your expertise in Range

We’re highlighting travel insights from Ensemble advisors — and we want yours. Simply fill out this form with your top tips, hacks and insider knowledge about all things travel and you might see it featured in an upcoming issue of Range.

Member Marketing Insider: All about Range

Three tips to help you use the latest issue of Range and Range Best to spark amazing travel ideas and conversations with your customers:

1. If you’re enrolled in print marketing, review your list of customers who received the magazine and follow up with them. Be sure to reiterate that it’s a gift from you because they are special customers.

2. Take advantage of the free digital marketing program and send the digital issue of Range to all your customers. The email is personalized with your logo and contact information.

3. Spread the news across all channels by adding the magazine to your website, your email signature and sharing it on your social media. Did you know that, apart from sharing the entire digital issue in a click, you can also pick and choose specific articles? By selecting individual stories, you’ll have more content to share over a longer period.

Go Further with Ensemble Marketing

The Ensemble Marketing program is designed to support Ensemble members with impactful marketing that drives sales. With newly designed and personalized print and digital tactics, there is no better time to join. If you have questions about the program, please email marketing@ensembletravel.com.

Now’s the time to plan your client’s next unforgettable journey

PREFERRED LOGOS

They can Stroll La Boca’s colorful community, people-watch in Australia’s Airlie Beach or play in the sun among New Zealand’s sea cliffs. Book your clients 2024/2025 voyage now to Alaska, Europe, and beyond with the Have It All Early Booking Bonus and they receive Specialty Dining, Shore Excursions, A Low Fare Guarantee and free Prepaid Crew Appreciation – plus free upgrades to Premium Wi-Fi and our Elite Beverage Package when booked by September 30, 2023.

PREFERED

On the Road Again

Rachel Grogan, Director of Partnership Marketing, attended Ensemble’s first FAM trip with Silversea on a 10-day trip to Iceland aboard the Silver Moon.

The group during one of the training sessions.

The group during one of the formal evenings.

Simmy Lewis, travel consultant at Travel Sensations and Rachel Grogan at the Myvatn Nature Baths.

Uncover Unforgettable Luxury Experiences

Wherever their travels take them, elevate the experience with the IHG. As one of the world’s largest luxury and lifestyle hotel brands, we offer unparalleled service and stay experiences. With a portfolio of hotels and resorts globally, you can expect one-of-a-kind luxury experiences in the world’s most premium destinations.

Discover unparalleled levels of service at iconic brands like Six Senses, Regent Hotels & Resorts, InterContinental Hotels & Resorts, Vignette Collection,

Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, and Hotel Indigo. From urban escapes and distinctive design-led boutiques, to world renowned wellness havens and stunning resort locations, IHG has a hotel or resort perfect for your clients’ next trip. And with our award-winning loyalty program, IHG One Rewards, it is easier for you to see the world and get rewarded while doing it.

Industry Events Recap

Antigua & Barbuda Welcome Ensemble in Toronto Event

“Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority welcomed a select group of travel trade types at Ensemble’s downtown Toronto this week for some tasty Antigua & Barbuda treats, some island music and a message that Antigua & Barbuda is the kind of destination that Canadians have been looking for, if they haven’t discovered it already.”

You can read the full article detailing the exciting event here

1. -

2. Colin James, CEO, Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority with Jennifer Dzialo, SVP of Partner Relations.

3. Colin James, CEO, Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority with Jennifer Dzialo, SVP of Partner Relations.

4. Jennifer Dzialo, SVP of Partner Relations, Colin James, CEO, Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Tameka Wharton, Sales and Marketing Manager, Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority.

5. Colin James, CEO, Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority.

Manulife Referral Desk

Not Licensed where your client resides?

Unsure of what to sell?

The Manulife Referral Desk has you covered.

Why the Referral Desk?

The Referral Desk is available whenever you need help closing an insurance sale. It allows your clients to obtain comprehensive travel insurance coverage, especially if they live where you are not licensed to sell travel insurance.

Contact the Referral Desk in 1 of 3 ways:

1 Agent emails the Referral Desk and cc’s client

2. Phone transfer: With client on the line, Agent calls Referral Desk and transfers client to Referral Desk agent

3. Client can phone or email Referral Desk Phone: 1 (888) 220-5212

Email: Travel_referral@manulife.ca

The Referral Desk will need the following information:

• Agency code and Agent /User ID

• Departure Date and Return Date

• Sum insured (all costs)

• Preferred plan

Referral Desk Hours of Operation

Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 8 p.m. EST

Saturday 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. EST

After Hours, Sunday & Holidays Please email

Referral Slip

For clients reaching out to the Referral Desk, we have created a fillable Referral Slip. This can be found on IGOinsured under “Forms”.

Please ensure that your clients provide your Agency Code and User ID so that you can receive credit for the sale. Contact your Business Development Manager for more information.

© 2023 The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company. All rights reserved.

Manulife, P.O. Box 670, Stn Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2J 4B8.

Website: www.manulife.ca Telephone: 1-800-268-3763

Accessible

Underwritten by The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company (Manulife) and First North American Insurance Company, a wholly owned subsidiary of Manulife. Manulife, Stylized M Design, and Manulife & Stylized M Design are trademarks of

Welcome New Staff

Lisa Kehayias Director, Member Relations

How does your role impact Ensemble members?

My primary goal is to connect with all the members in my territory and unveil the incredible toolbox Ensemble offers. I am determined to guide and empower them by showcasing the exceptional technology at their fingertips, which will not only save them valuable time but also boost their business.

Tell us about your past work history!

Throughout my 17-year professional journey in marketing, PR and Global Sales for luxury and ultraluxury hotels worldwide, I have gained invaluable experience. Together, we will achieve amazing results and elevate our member community to new heights.

What are your favorite travel destinations?

All of Greece, Ibiza, Maldives, Barcelona, Granada, Montalcino, Vienna, Prague, Thailand, love Mexico, love Colombia, Italy, so many!

What travel is next on your list?

I would love to go to Tibet, Bhutan, Mongolia, Nepal, Africa, the list goes on and on

Shelly Ransom VP, Business Development

How will your role impact Ensemble members?

I will be working to engage potential members to join the Ensemble family. We want to grow thoughtfully to help improve our strength in the marketplace to drive the best value for members!

Tell us about your previous work experience!

I have worked in so many facets of our industry (Agency, OTA, Corporate, Leisure, Luxury, Hotel) that I have seen first-hand the “virtuous cycle” of how having good supply, and good demand drive the best value for our shared customer: the traveler. I’ve also really seen how pairing that with our agent’s personal knowledge and experience can transform travel for the good.

What are your top travel destinations?

I grew up in the desert and now LOVE WATER –anywhere I can get it, so we usually end up at lakes, in oceans, hot springs. Most of all – I love road trips, through the US, Canada, UK, Colombia – I love to pack up and explore!

What travel is next on your list?

I’ll be attending industry events in Dallas, Jamaica, and the Bahamas!

Training and Development

Each week we invite our partners to participate in these “live” webinars so you can stay up to date on all the latest happenings in our industry. If you are unable to attend live, we invite you to listen to these sessions through our U of E platform under the “RECORDED LIBRARY” section.

Upcoming webinars:

August 31, 2023

American Queen Voyages

September 14, 2023

Princess Cruises

September 21, 2023

Intrepid Travel

Coming in October –

a new and improved UofE platform to access all of your learning!

Accessing training, registering and joining webinars, participating in certification training (amongst many other features) will be easier and fewer clicks for you! We are moving all GENIUS POINTS to the new platform, and will be adding badges and other incentives for our new programming.

September 11, 2023

Partner of the Month AMA Waterways

September 20, 2023

Collette Tours

September 28, 2023

Celebrity Cruises

Partner of the Month

September’s Partner of the Month

This month, we have an amazing partner to highlight, AmaWaterways, with exclusive offers available to Ensemble Members. For more details, tune into their upcoming webinar.

Webinar featuring our Partner of the Month

AmaWaterways - September 11, 2023, 3 pm EST

Register now

News from the Rivers with AmaWaterways

Ensemble’s President, Michael Johnson sits down with the executive team from AmaWaterways - Ensemble’s Partner of the Month for September.

Join AmaWaterways Co-Founder & Executive Vice President, Kristin Karst and Senior Vice President of Sales, Alex Pinelo for a discussion of all things Ama. Learn about what’s new on the rivers in 2024 and 2025, our travel advisor engagement and education opportunities and more.

200 Genius Points for Tuning in Live!

Every new guest booked in the month of September earns a raffle entry for a free 7-night cruise giveaway.

*Booking must be deposited in order to qualify.

Hotel News

Book a stay at the Barbie Dream Suite at Fairmont Montreal

The Barbie™ Dream Suite is inspired by the icon herself, Barbie and plays upon her love of travel and spirit of adventure while embracing her vibrant and impeccable style.

This unique stay is only available for booking until September 30 and arrives with immersive packages such as Barbie™ Dream Tea, Barbie™ Spectacular PJ Soiree and Fabulous Barbie™ Party, that are perfect for special gatherings and celebrations.

Contact QEH.BARBIE@fairmont.com to book and visit here to learn more.

Earn Commission with Paradisus Hotels

Increased commission of 18% for all NEW GDS bookings effective starting from September 1 until October 30, 2023, for travel from September 1, 2023 to December 20, 2024. Participating Hotels: Paradisus Los Cabos, Paradisus Cancun, Paradisus Playa del Carmen, Paradisus La Perla and Paradisus Palma Real. Only applicable on GDS bookings.

Supplier News

Anderson Vacations

Since 1993 Anderson Vacations has taken pride in surpassing the expectations of travelers with top-value group tours, custom groups, self-drive trips, and independent travel options to hundreds of destinations across Canada and beyond.

Exclusively for Ensemble agencies: Receive $50 per pax bonus commission for any Escorted Tour (2023, 2024) or FIT tour bookings confirmed with a deposit from July 27 – September 4, 2023.

Project Expedition

Project Expedition offers pre- and postcruise options that include day tours, excursions, activities, and more.

Earn 10% commission on a curated inventory of over 22,000 tours. Register for their easy-to-use booking platform which includes affiliate links that do not expire and options to co-brand with your logo.

We are ME: A collection of design hotels inspired by contemporary European culture

ME by Meliá celebrates our destinations’ unique personality, our hotels’ remarkable design. Discover the bold and daring spirit of ME by Meliá and its striking collection of rooms and suites inspired by contemporary culture. ME is space, energy and inspiration. It is avant-garde, art, music and gastronomy. It is expression.

Luxury. Rest and relaxation. It is city. It’s beach. Day and night. Character and identity. We work with some of the finest contemporary artists, who help shape our cultural DNA and encourage a creative spirit at our hotels.

We are ME.

ME+

Suite and VIP services ME+ is our most exclusive experience, reserved for those guests staying in our ME Suites. They enjoy most highly personalized service from our Aura Team, connecting guests with the essence of their destination through the exclusive insights and local recommendations.

Pet Friendly Hotels All guests are classed as VIP at ME. We offer dog beds, toys and everything that it is necessary for their daily walks, as well as dogs grooming, recommendations and other possible cares.

Cruise News

Riviera River Cruises

Riviera River Cruises is one of Ensemble’s newer suppliers, recognized for their unique itineraries that facilitate enriching European vacations for guests. They offer 22 itineraries on 10 European rivers throughout the year, including voyages specifically tailored for solo travelers and holiday season cruises.

More details about Riviera River Cruises can be found on their official website, www.rivierarivercruises.com, or by calling 888-838-8820.

Virgin Voyages

Virgin Voyages has agreed to preliminary preferred agreement terms for 2023. In addition, they will be attending the Horizon event.

More Partners

We have several new DMC partners to tell you about – check them out on the Member Portal, under Partner Search:

Exo Travel (Vietnam, Thailand, Myanmar, Laos, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Saudi Arabia) premium plus, a la carte

Island Routes Caribbean Adventures (Antigua, Aruba, Bahamas, Barbados, Curacao, Dominican Republic, Grand Cayman, Grenada, Jamaica, Sint Maarten, St. Lucia, Turks & Caicos) premium plus, a la carte

Pioneer Holidays India (India) premium plus, packages only

JTB Luxury Escapes (Japan) luxury, packages only

In the News

Justin Smith, The Evolved Traveler, was quoted in an article in the Washington Post on 7 Less Expensive Beach Vacations.

Let’s Get Social

• Exclusive Info: Stay ahead with insider tips, industry news, and timely updates on trends.

• Unbeatable Offers: Enjoy exclusive access to special promotions, discounts, and early-bird offers.

• Interactive Webinars: Learn from industry experts, ask questions, and gain practical insights.

• Exciting Events: Participate in workshops, panel discussions, and networking sessions.

• Connect with Pros: Engage with professionals, share ideas, and build your network. Unlock exclusive insights, offers, and networking opportunities by joining today.

Join We are Ensemble

We hope you enjoyed the August issue. Please send your suggestions, ideas, and any content you’d like to have featured to marketing@ensembletravel.com