Engage: June Issue by Ensemble

Letter from our President

In keeping with Ensemble’s mission to serve our members, I want to highlight a theme this month that resonates deeply with all of us: empowerment.

In the fast-paced world of travel, opportunities are boundless, but only if we’re willing to seize them. As you’d advise your clients, don’t wait; now is the time to take the trip of your dreams. Experiences like this not only enrich our lives, they feed the passion and hunger for knowledge that make us better advisors. Encourage them to embark on those bucket list adventures they’ve always talked about.

In addition to taking some well-deserved vacation time, it’s also an opportunity to take action:

• Invest in your business today. Travel is brimming with opportunity, and the best way to seize it is being proactive. The Member Portal is filled with resources for personal development, and our live events –like the upcoming Horizons – are gateways to knowledge and inspiration.

• Engage with the Ensemble programs designed to support your growth, from exclusive learning sessions to innovative marketing tools. Our resources are here to empower you, providing the knowledge and skills to take your business to new heights.

• Connect with fellow members, leverage the power of our network, and explore new opportunities for collaboration and growth.

Don’t wait for the perfect moment—create your own, right now.

Together, let’s embrace the spirit of empowerment, seize the opportunities before us, and inspire others to do the same.

Your journey, your success, and your growth are at the heart of what we do at Ensemble. Let’s make every moment count.

Michael Johnson President

Get Engaged

Top 5 ways to empower yourself this month

1. Get connected

Join your fellow members and Ensemble staff on We Are Ensemble, our private Facebook group. There you’ll be able to engage with peers, expand your professional network, and get valuable support.

2. Become an Ensemble expert

Ensure you know how to leverage Ensemble’s programs, such as cruise, hotel, and DMC, and present these benefits to your clients. Enhance your skills with our ready-made Ensemble Expert Program, available on UofE.

3. Enhance client relationships with Ensemble Marketing

Build and evolve relationships with your clients with award-winning print and digital marketing to inspire their next vacation, including Range Magazine and Range Best, which you can embed on your website, socials, and more. You can find the entire suite of marketing assets available to you through the Member Portal.

4. Engage, network, and grow with Ensemble Events!

Experience four days of enriching activities and dynamic programming! The event kicks off with inspiring opening remarks on September 16, and culminates in our spectacular Closing Awards Party on September 19. You’ll connect with partners and travel professionals from around the globe, forging meaningful connections that will propel your business forward.

5. Level up with ADX

ADX is Ensemble’s integrated booking tool, hosting air, hotel, and cruise on one platform. Learn about all things ADX by booking a virtual training session today.

Click here to book a virtual training session

Enroll in Ensemble Marketing

Earn 100% Commissions on ADX Hotel Bookings

Ensemble is excited to announce that starting June 1st, Ensemble members will receive 100% commission on hotel bookings made through the ADX booking platform. That means you can impress your clients with exclusive hotel amenities and discounted rates when you book through ADX.

Hotel Booking Benefits

Commissions & Markup - Commissions from 10-20%, with some rates, like Hotel EDGE, offering additional markup.

Exclusive Amenities - Thousands of hotels with exclusive amenities are available at some of the world’s most elite hotels.

Diverse Inventory Sources - Multiple inventory sources from GDS, wholesalers, hotel chains, and more.

Our Senior Manager of Platform Learning and Engagement, Jasmine Prince, and Blair Hirtle, Travel Advisor Engagement Manager at Ensemble, attended the Fareconnect conference in Edmonton to discuss all things ADX and participate in a panel discussion.

ADX gives you access to the Exclusive Partner Amenity program, which offers commissionable rates and amenities for 3-5 star properties, with clients paying in local currency. These rates are guaranteed and are paid indestination unless otherwise identified.

To learn about booking hotels through ADX, schedule a virtual session with one of our platform experts today.

When booking hotels in ADX, try searching by specific landmarks or addresses instead of the city name. For example, if your clients want to stay near a particular landmark or a family member’s home, you can filter hotels based on their distance to that location. Here’s an example using the Eiffel Tower instead of just searching for hotels in Paris.

Using ADX to search for hotels by specific landmarks or addresses can greatly enhance your clients’ travel experience. You can ensure they find the perfect accommodation that meets their needs by pinpointing the exact location they want to stay near. Give it a try and see the difference it makes in your hotel bookings.

ADX Fun Fact

ADX Tip for Hotel Bookings

Jasmine and Blair at Fareconnect

Book Virtual Session

High Spirits

by Christopher Sherman, Ensemble Senior Director of Communications

On a hot day in Mexico (or wherever you are), there’s nothing better than a sip of exceptional Mezcal, a distilled alcoholic beverage made from any type of agave. The word “mezcal” comes from the Nahuatl word “mexcalli,” meaning “oven-cooked agave,” and sipping it straight reveals rich, smoky flavors that are unparalleled. As an extra special treat for one, or an intimate celebration, I always prepare a pitcher of the perfect summer drink: Mezcal and Lime.

For a refreshing summer Mezcal Lime pitcher, fill a glass or pitcher with your mezcal of choice. Take 10-15 fresh green limes, cut them in half, and use a lime squeezer to extract every drop of juice. Serve in chilled, small glasses with rims coated in Maldon Sea Salt Flakes for added flavor.

Ingredients for Summer Mezcal Lime Pitcher:

• Mezcal of choice

• 10-15 fresh green limes

• Maldon Sea Salt Flakes

• Lemon and lime squeezer

One&Only Palmilla’s Ultimate Golf Package

Your One&Only Palmilla golf adventure begins with three days of play on our award-winning 27-hole Jack Nicklaus Signature course, inclusive of Callaway rental clubs & complimentary golf cart. Before you tee off, stop by our Driving Range to practice your swing or hop straight into your cart and enjoy scenic views from every hole on the Arroyo, Mountain and Ocean course. And to make sure you get the most of out of your golf getaway, we’ll include an extra night on us, daily breakfast, and round-trip airport transfers

Offer includes:

• Complimentary 4th night

• Three rounds of golf at Palmilla Golf Club

• Golf cart & club rentals

• Daily breakfast

• Roundtrip airport transfers

• Minimum stay of four nights

Further Your World. (FAM)

Recently, we’ve had two amazing groups of advisors return from their Ensemble Exclusive Educational trips, and the reviews have been glowing. Learn more about the trips, and hear what our members had to say!

Northern India Excursion

Ready to dive into the soul of India? Join G Adventures from October 20-27, 2024, on an electrifying journey through Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, and Pachewa! For centuries, northern India has been a melting pot of religions and cultures—and nowhere is this legacy more apparent than the region’s incredible architecture. From the gleaming white dome of the Taj Mahal to the ancient steps of the Chand Baori water tank, get a taste of India’s allure on this compact journey.

Explore the bustling streets of Old Delhi, marvel at magnificent Mughal monuments in Agra and Fatehpur Sikri, and wander the pink-toned palaces of Jaipur, capping off your trip with a stay in a timeless desert village.

Dates: October 20-27, 2024

Price: $899 USD (Twin Accommodation)

Don’t wait, secure your spot.

Apply Now

Get

Events Horizons: The Power of You

Embark on an unforgettable four-day journey from September 16 to 19 at Resorts World Las Vegas. Take advantage of increased networking, visit groundbreaking ADX Labs, enjoy tailor-made professional development sessions, and captivating keynote and guest speakers. Never a dull moment, this event promises endless learning opportunities and unforgettable fun in Las Vegas.

With over 300 partners slated to attend, Ensemble Horizons is set to be a gathering of unmatched industry expertise and opportunities. Join us for a celebration like never before and discover the power of meaningful connections to propel your business to new horizons.

BEYOND Elevated Experiences 2024

The Power of Achievement

Ensemble’s Beyond is an exclusive event celebrating our top performers. In Paris, this all-new Ensemble Beyond: Elevated Experiences ignited innovation and creativity, transcending boundaries and expectations. Attendees from across the globe experienced a journey where the extraordinary awaited at every turn.

BEYOND 2024

Elevated Experiences

1 DAY 2 DAY 1

DAY 2

DAY 3

Day 1

• Guests made their way to the timeless Westin Paris - Vendôme, setting the tone for a luxurious stay.

• Our welcome cocktail reception and dinner unfolded at Riviera-Fuga, a floating restaurant moored along the Seine. Amidst the panoramic views of Paris’s iconic landmarks, guests enjoyed a three-course fusion of Italian and Japanese cuisine to a house DJ set.

• After dinner, guests were invited to join us at an exclusive Parisian disco to dance the night away.

Day 2

• Upon arrival at Roland-Garros, guests embarked on self-guided tours of the prestigious grounds, immersing themselves in the legendary tournament’s rich history, and vibrant atmosphere. Following the tours, an exclusive reception and lunch awaited them in a private salon, setting the stage for an unforgettable afternoon.

• Outfitted in their new Ensemble x RolandGarros official Panama hats, guests moved to their gold level seats and witnessed the thrilling women’s singles and men’s doubles finals.

• After an afternoon like no other, guests were offered an array of classic Parisian dining options to cap off a perfect Saturday in the City of Light.

Day 3

• Guests engaged in enriching 1:1 networking appointments in a beautiful, historic ballroom, fostering valuable connections between members and partners, and sparking opportunities for collaboration.

• During lunch, guests were treated to captivating speaker presentations, hearing from some of our valued partners.

• In the afternoon, guests chose between a macaroon class, enjoying a luxury shopping experience, or relishing free time at leisure.

• To conclude an unforgettable journey, attendees gathered for a captivating cocktail reception and closing dinner at the illustrious CoCo, nestled within the historic Paris Opera House. There, amidst the opulent surroundings of one of Paris’s most iconic landmarks, we raised our glasses to our top performers and partners and a perfect weekend in Paris.

Member Marketing Insider

Explore our new directory of Destination Management Companies (DMCs) to connect with trusted local experts offering in-depth knowledge, and a wide array of products and services tailored to your clients’ needs.

Ensemble is partnered with 130+ preferred DMCs around the world, each committed to service that goes above and beyond.

Member Marketing Insider

We Asked the Experts

When it comes to hidden gems, our Ensemble preferred partners and their local guides know best. That’s why we went directly to the source for expert advice on travel’s best-kept secrets in the latest issue of Range Best. From nearly-private beaches in the Dominican Republic to off-thebeaten-path temples beyond Angkor Wat, this “insider’s guide” to the world’s most astonishing experiences is sure to inspire.

See Your Expertise Featured in Range!

In every issue of Range, we publish “Inside Scoop” tips, advice, and insights from our members—and we want yours! To be considered for inclusion in an upcoming issue, simply fill out this form.

Enroll now for 6 months of FREE Ensemble Marketing!

There’s still time to enroll in an Ensemble Marketing Plan, with FREE personalized digital and direct mail marketing available to all Ensemble members.

Plus, if you have print names available to you*, there are still two printed and personalized publications, Range and Range Best, that can be sent directly to your clients. Enroll by July 15th.

*Eligibility and number of pieces received based preferred sales and ADX transactions. Email us to find out how many names you have available.

Enroll Now

Read the Story

Here’s where the Ensemble team has been this past month, visiting with members and partners.

On the Road Again

01

Ensemble’s Thia Gnanakumaran, Annabelle Seow, and Eric Bergeron at Softvoyage’s 25th anniversary celebration

03

Ensemble’s Amaris Garcia with Lauren Doyle from The Travel Mechanic

02

Ensemble’s Amaris Garcia and Stefany Jones with Francine Carter and Angella Bennett at Caribbean Travel Marketplace in Montego Bay, Jamaica

04

Ensemble’s Lyne Côté at the AAVQ Golf Tournament with Anthony La Para from World Experiences X La Para

On the Scene

Proud Experiences

Los Angeles, California | June 3-5, 2024

PROUD Experiences is a groundbreaking event that unites leaders from the travel and lifestyle sectors to develop business strategies, enhance LGBTQ+ understanding, and connect with peers. Since its London launch in 2018 and subsequent establishment in New York, it’s become a hub for debate, discussion, and collaborative action. This unique event gathers agents, brands, designers, and press to embrace and elevate the LGBTQ+ community. Ensemble was proud to attend and host an opening cocktail reception.

The Ensemble team will be attending these upcoming events and would love to connect. If you’re planning to attend any of these events, email your Member Relations Director to let them know!

Lyne Côté: lyne.cote@ensembletravel.com

Lee Zanello: lee.zanello@ensembletravel.com

Mark Stubbert: mark.stubbert@ensembletravel.com

Lisa Kehayias: lisa.kehayias@ensembletravel.com

James Ricks: james.ricks@ensembletravel.com

Upcoming Industry Events

Royal Caribbean Inaugural July 15-18

ILTM North America Baha Mar, The Bahamas Sept 23 - 26

Member Spotlight

Ensemble member Anita Hynes-Giguere, owner of Voyages le Village, received an award as a Rising Stars agency at the Sandal’s STAR awards. Get all the details from Travel Press.

Empowering Members

Softvoyage’s 25th anniversary celebration was held in Toronto May 30th. At the event, founder Steve Ringuet told a story of starting the company prior to the internet, when he thought he could distribute pricing for the tour operators using a radio signal. He approached his first agency who agreed in concept, except this agency had no antennae. Steve bought the antennae and climbed up three stories himself to install it and be the first customer to receive the updates in this manner. That first customer was Voyages Bergeron in Montreal, an early adopter of all sorts of technology with a unique vision for their business to shine.

Canadian Travel Hall of Fame member Lyne Rose, Eric Bergeron, and Steve Ringuet.

Knowledge Base Learning & Development

Ensemble’s Luxury Travel Certification

Ensemble is excited to partner with the Travel Institute to offer our members this exclusive Luxury Certification.

The course takes you on an amazing learning journey with an updated look at the types, characteristics, and attributes of today’s luxury travelers. You’ll learn about strategies for finding clients, the various elements of luxury travel and how they relate to traveler types, current market trends, and a sampling of evolving luxury products.

The Ensemble’s Luxury Travel Certification is available to all our members, and is live in UofE for you to enroll in. On the Certification Catalog page, simply search for the Luxury Travel Certification, start learning today!

Lesson 1: Introduction to Luxury Travel

Lesson 2: Luxury Travelers

Lesson 3: Luxury Travel Products

Lesson 4: Luxury Travel Branding and Promoting

Partner of the Month

July’s Partner of the Month is Seabourn!

Webinar Date: July 10, 2024, 3:00 PM EST

Join us this month for an exclusive session as our SVP of Partner Relations, Beth Butzlaff, engages in a conversation with Natalya Leahy, Seabourn’s President.

Link through U of E for Registration and Genius Points:

For the month of July, your clients can experience more moments on us with an Ensemble Exclusive shipboard credit of $300 USD and a More Moments Credit of up to $2,200 USD per suite.

Looking ahead: 2024 Partners of the Month

• August - Viking

• September - Holland

• October – Regent Seven Seas

• November – TBD

• December – Cunard

Supplier News

Tourism Ireland

The first nation to legalize same-sex marriage by popular vote, Ireland is home to a thriving LGBTQ+ community. From the Dublin Pride Festival to The Outing, a unique LGBTQ+ matchmaking festival in County Clare, bustling, inclusive scene await travellers. Learn more about how the country is welcoming LGBTQ+ travellers with open arms and open hearts here.

Explore

Remote and Indigenous Canada with the Experts

Anderson Vacations is a responsible tour operator with over 30 years in the market, offering premier FIT and Group tour packages across Canada, the US, and Down Under. With an extensive array of sample itineraries at your fingertips, we can tailor each journey to your client’s specifications or create custom adventures from scratch. We also have the largest selection of fully escorted small group tours across Canada, ready for your clients to join.

As Canada Experts, our product range spans every province and territory, featuring both ‘must-see’ and ‘off the-beatenpath’ destinations. We specialize in offering authentic, local, and Indigenous cultural experiences in both classic and remote locations. Our unique tours offer experiences like exploring the breathtaking island of Haida Gwaii, wildlife viewing in the remote Great Bear Rainforest, and witnessing the magical auroras in the Yukon.

Sustainability is at the heart of our mission. For every passenger who travels with us, we plant a tree, contributing to a greener planet. Additionally, we’re proud to be a Reconciliation partner, supporting the Indigenous Tourism economy through the Indigenous Tourism Destination Fund (ITDF). By choosing Anderson Vacations, you’re not only exploring the world but also giving back to the communities and environments we cherish.

Supplier News

Travel Insurance

Protect your client’s bucket list trips with travel insurance

When it comes to travel insurance, whether your travelers are first-time buyers or never leave home without it, they may be surprised to learn there’s often more than meets the eye when it comes to the benefits travel insurance has to offer. A great policy can offer a variety of other perks beyond financial protection in times of need. Empower your travelers to protect the moments that matter with travel protection from Travelex Insurance Services.

Four types of assistance services our policyholders can access:

#01

Travel Medical Assistance

We hope your travelers remain healthy during their trip, but on the off chance your traveler gets sick or injured, their Travelex travel insurance policy can provide them with the help they need 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

If your travelers need professional medical help, we can provide support in various scenarios:

• Transport you to a hospital

• Dispatch a doctor to you

• Arrange a medical evaluation

#02

Worldwide Travel Assistance

As a Travelex policyholder, your travelers have access to our travel assistance services. Help is available whenever needed, so leave the worry to us!

Our travel assistance service provides support in situations like:

• Searching for lost baggage

• Replacing stolen luggage

• Replacing lost passports or travel documents

• Assisting with emergency cash transfers

#03

Emergency Assistance

If circumstances outside your travelers’ control cause them to miss part of their trip — whether a travel connection, ticketed event, or other part of their vacation or business trip goes awry — our assistance provider can help them with things like:

• Rebooking flights and hotels

• Organizing emergency return travel arrangements

• Locating roadside assistance

• Coordinating missed connections

#04

Concierge Services

Perhaps the most exciting benefit of travel insurance is its best-kept secret: Did you know our Travelex travel insurance plans offer Travelex policyholders 24-hour concierge services? Our on-call concierge means there’s no need to stress about certain aspects of their trip. Travelers can simply pick up the phone, call our 24/7 assistance team, and they will have access to an expert who can help them plan a range of vacation activities.

Our travel assistance provider’s concierge services offer support with:

• Restaurant referrals and reservations for those who love eating out

• Ground transportation arrangements for those who want to discover their destination

• Event ticketing arrangements for those who want to soak up the local arts scene

• Tee times and course recommendations for those who love a round of golf

• Floral service for those who love a fresh bunch of flowers in their room — even on vacation

Take advantage of the benefits of travel insurance

When your customers invest their money in bucket list adventures, you don’t want the unexpected to ruin their vacation. Discover how we can help protect your travelers’ dream vacations with these travel assistance benefits and more by getting a quote from Travelex today!

Spotlight on South American Tours

Discover the enchanting world of retreats and wellness in South America, where breathtaking landscapes and rich cultural heritage provide the perfect backdrop for rejuvenation. Combining outdoor adventure, relaxation and cultural immersion, these retreats are the perfect place to de-stress, recharge and reconnect with the essence of life. Join us as we explore unique experiences that promise tranquility, spirituality and profound wellbeing.

Wellness and Adventure in Patagonia’s 7 Lake Region

Northern Patagonia is known as the picturesque Seven Lakes Region. A short flight from Buenos Aires brings you to Bariloche, from which you’ll travel along the famous Ruta 40 to Villa La Angostura. Nestled in the Andes, just outside the tranquil town on the shores of Lake Nahuel Huapi, lies the Relais & Chateaux Hotel Las Balsas. This sustainable, B Corp-certified boutique hotel is surrounded by 20 hectares of native forest. All of the 10 beautifully designed rooms and 10 newly added spacious villas offer breathtaking views of the lake. The luxurious retreat provide an unparalleled wellness experience, combining the beauty of nature with world-class facilities and personalized treatments. During your stay, explore the stunning landscapes surrounding Las Balsas with private half or full day excursions tailored for you. Go on a guided hike, horseback ride or mountain bike tour to experience the thrill of Patagonia’s rugged terrain.