Author Archives: TRO Staff
There are 291 articles by TRO Staff published on this site.
PRESS RELEASE FROMKHM TRAVEL GROUP
Award-winning host agency offers a new online experience to learn about becoming a travel agent
Brunswick, Ohio (December 11, 2024) – KHM Travel Group offers a comprehensive program for new and experienced travel professionals and now has a website that helps to fully showcase the benefits of partnering with this leading host agency. The modern look and refreshed content of KHMTravel.com provide a preview of the experience one can expect when joining KHM Travel Group’s growing agent community. Read the rest of this entry »
The European travel industry continues to face challenges, notably from a wave of industrial actions expected to ripple through the continent in the coming months. According to an article in Euronews, here’s what travelers need to keep on their radar.
Italy’s Transport Standstill
Italy bound travelers should brace themselves as a four-hour national strike by the public transport sector unfolds on January 10. Spearheaded by the FAISA-CONFAIL union, this protest will primarily affect urban commutes. Visitors may experience delays or cancellations affecting buses, trams, and metro lines, although taxis and long-distance trains remain operational. Likewise, those navigating Florence in mid-January should expect further disruptions from strike actions targeting regional rail and tram services.
France’s Festive Season Train Snags
For journeys through France, December poses potential travel pitfalls. Strikes, rooted in disputes over regional railway privatization, are poised to hamper both high-speed TGV services and regional TER routes. Given the volatility of the situation, travelers are advised to monitor real-time updates to avoid last-minute surprises.
Portugal’s Flight Punctuality
In Portugal, a series of strikes targeting overtime during the festive season threaten substantial delays at airports. These actions are scheduled to impact flights primarily around Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day, as dissatisfied Portway ground staff seek improved compensation.
UK Rail Issues
Across the English Channel, the UK faces its own turbulence. Avanti West Coast rail staff have planned strikes for New Year’s Eve and January 2, potentially complicating travel plans on the West Coast Main Line. Continued disruptions loom every Sunday from mid-January until late May.
Spain’s Coach Commotion
Spain’s ongoing nationwide bus strike disrupts numerous services as the Confederación General del Trabajo (CGT) union agitates for better driver conditions. This situation predominantly affects Murcia and Andalusia, demanding travelers in these regions to adapt their itineraries accordingly.
For continuous updates and to manage travel expectations, it’s advisable to stay informed through official channels and maintain flexibility.
PRESS RELEASE FROM THE TRAVEL INSTITUTE
A Message from Diane Petras, CTIE, President, The Travel Institute
60 Years and Counting…
Amid Constant Change, An Unwavering Mission Read the rest of this entry »
PRESS RELEASE FROM COLLETTE
PAWTUCKET, RI (December 11, 2024) – In an upcoming virtual event, Collette will share what defines their premium experience and how it supports the needs and desires of the modern traveler.
Led by Collette employees Kelsie Marchetti and Gabbie Borgus, this virtual event will cover: Read the rest of this entry »
PRESS RELEASE FROM HOST AGENCY REVIEWS
Minneapolis, Dec. 11th, 2025 – Host Agency Reviews recently published its full agenda for its fifth annual Host Week 2025 event, which will take place Jan. 27th to Jan. 31st, 2025. A free weeklong virtual celebration of hosted travel advisors and the industry that supports them, Host Week is the only event of its kind.
Geared toward new and experienced advisors alike, this year’s Host Week will offer dozens of interviews with host agencies, franchises, and consortia to help familiarize advisors with company cultures of hosting agencies; plus 15 EduSpot workshops from industry leaders delivering actionable strategies on AI, BDM relationships, sales processes, client loyalty and more. Read the rest of this entry »
PRESS RELEASE FROM COLLETTE
PAWTUCKET, December 7, 2024 – Collette announces that it is extending its popular “Holiday Shopping on Us” initiative through January 2, 2025, offering gift cards to advisors for every booking they make.
Once qualified (make 2 deposited bookings), advisors will earn a $100 gift card for every booking they make through January 2, 2025. Bookings made during Collette’s Black Friday Sale will count toward qualification, with the full incentive window running November 18, 2024 to January 2, 2025.
“We loved seeing the impact this initiative had with our advisor community,” said Christian Leibl-Cote, Collette’s Executive Vice President of Global Sales. “Extending this initiative through the end of the year is a way of celebrating and supporting advisors who are closing the year out strong.” Read the rest of this entry »
PRESS RELEASE FROM THE TRAVEL INSTITUTE
FRAMINGHAM, MA, November 25, 2024 – The Travel Institute’s Season of Giving is back starting Black Friday, November 29, with tuition assistance for travel professionals at all levels of experience. From now until year’s end, The Travel Institute’s new agent education, advanced certification, and lifestyle and destination courses are available at 20% off. In addition, all agents are eligible for a free, courtesy copy of The Entrepreneur’s Checklist for travel agents. Read the rest of this entry »
PRESS RELEASE FROM TRAVEL SHOW MARKETING GROUP
(Boston, MA – December 2, 2024) The 2024 Travel Agency Owners Forum (TAOF), held from November 17–22 at the Wyndham Grand Barbados Sam Lord’s Castle, concluded successfully, leaving participants inspired and equipped for growth.
Hosted by Travel Show Marketing Group (TravelSMG), this exclusive event brought together a carefully vetted group of high-performing U.S.-based travel agency owners and leading global travel suppliers for high-level networking, education, and collaboration. Read the rest of this entry »
PRESS RELEASE FROM AMERICAN CRUISE LINES
Guilford, CT—November 25, 2024—American Cruise Lines is pleased to announce that American Legend sets sail today, along its first cruise. The newest small ship in the country, is sailing American’s 8-Day Florida Gulf Coast & Keys itinerary, roundtrip from St. Petersburg Florida. The fully domestic cruise visits: St. Petersburg, FL; Marco Island, FL; Key West, FL; Punta Gorda, FL; and offers an optional pre-cruise hotel stay in Tampa, Florida. The cruise explores the Sunshine State’s Gulf Coast, offering many shoreside excursions in every port-of-call including a full day exploration of Dry Tortugas National Park. Read the rest of this entry »
PRESS RELEASE FROM COLLETTE
Pawtucket, RI (November 18, 2024) – Collette is inspiring advisors to help travelers “Go Everywhere” with an exclusive presale ahead of its highly anticipated Black Friday sale for 2024. Advisors can save up to 25%* if they book their clients’ tours before the presale ends on November 24. Offer code TRAVEL24 must be used at the time of booking to cash in on the deal. Read the rest of this entry »
PRESS RELEASE FROM THE TRAVEL INSTITUTE
FRAMINGHAM, MA, November 13, 2024 – The Travel Institute announces the appointment of Alex Pinelo, CTC, senior vice president of sales for AmaWaterways to its Board of Directors.
“I could not be more pleased to have Alex as the newest member of our diverse and dynamic board. An industry leader and true professional, he has consistently been a strong proponent about the vital value that well-educated agents provide,” shared Gary Pollard, CTC, chairman of The Travel Institute Board of Directors; president and CEO, Ambassador Tours. “His willingness to serve now demonstrates the continued value Read the rest of this entry »
PRESS RELEASE FROM SKY BIRD TRAVEL & TOURS
Southfield, MI – November 14, 2024 – On November 7, 2024, the 10th annual Travvy Awards were held in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. Presented by TravelPulse, part of Northstar Travel Group, this highly anticipated event celebrates excellence in the travel industry, recognizing top companies, products, agencies, and destinations. Read the rest of this entry »
Pawtucket, Rhode Island (November 12, 2024)– Travel advisors who book Collette tours during their Black Friday sale can earn hundreds in gift cards with their “Holiday Shopping on Us” initiative.
Once qualified (make 2 deposited bookings), advisors will earn a $100 gift card for every booking they make during Collette’s upcoming Black Friday sale. Advisors can choose gift cards from more than 100 stores, redeemed electronically shortly after the sale in $100 increments.
“Travel advisors work hard all year long,” said Christian Leibl-Cote, Collette’s Executive Vice President of Global Sales. “We want to share our appreciation for their partnership by making holiday shopping just a little easier this year. With this incentive Read the rest of this entry »
Jacksonville, FL, November 14, 2024 – OutsideAgents.com, America’s premier host agency, is excited to announce the hiring of seasoned travel industry professional Lionel Garcia as Vice President, Sales & Agent Development. With over 22 years in the travel industry, Lionel joins OutsideAgents.com with a rich background of knowledge and a proven track record of success. Read the rest of this entry »
PRESS RELEASE FROM AVANTGARDE VACATIONS
New York, NY — 11/12/24 — AVANTGARDE VACATIONS, formerly known as Holidays with Downtown, announces a major rebranding as it embarks on a new chapter in delivering premium, personalized travel experiences. With a renewed focus on private-guided travel, the company has unveiled a bold new brand identity, which includes a fresh logo, redesigned website, and an enhanced social media presence.
“We are incredibly excited to introduce the new brand identity,” said Steven Borukhin, CDO of AVANTGARDE VACATIONS. “This transformation reflects a deep commitment to both our customers and our team Read the rest of this entry »
PRESS RELEASE FROM COLLETTE
Collette is inviting advisors to get hands-on experience with their product in 2025. The company’s Travel Advisor Reward Program is a simple way for advisors to save on big experiences and to explore the world in the same way that their clients do.
As part of the program, advisors will be rewarded for booking more travelers on Collette tours.
Starting with reduced rates of 50%, advisors will receive bigger savings on land tours the more travelers they book within a single year. Advisors will also receive reduced rates for companions, starting at 25%. Read the rest of this entry »
PRESS RELEASE FROM AVANTI DESTINATIONS
New E-Brochure Features Seven Vacations, 21 Hotels and Resorts, 26 Tours and Experiences To Customize for Unique Winter Getaways
Portland, OR, November 4, 2024 – To inspire advisors to recommend independent travel to warm overseas destinations during the winter months of October through March, custom FIT tour operator Avanti Destinations has launched Read the rest of this entry »
Guilford, CT—November 1, 2024—American Cruise Lines is pleased to announce that it has signed contracts with Chesapeake Shipbuilding for 4 more new ships, bringing the Line’s total orderbook with Chesapeake to 10 ships over the next 3 years. All the newbuilds are expressly for the U.S. cruise market; the fastest growing segment of the river cruise industry. American Cruise Lines has been a trailblazer in that market for more than 50 years and will operate 21 small ships around the country next year. Read the rest of this entry »
PRESS RELEASE FROM TRAVELSMG
A New Era of Collaboration in Travel
(Boston, MA – October 30, 2024) European Travel Agent Forum (ETAF), an exclusive B2B event connecting North America’s top-performing Travel Agents with Europe’s leading vacation destinations and providers, recently concluded with strong optimism for a surge in business engagement.
Produced by Travel Show Marketing Group (TravelSMG), an independent event organizer catering to the Travel Agent market and in conjunction with the government of Terceira Island, this exclusive event took place throughout Terceira Island in the Azores of Portugal from October 16 – 20, 2024.
Agents in attendance were held to stringent standards during the event’s vetting process, adding to the overall level of productivity and ROI. ETAF’s hosted program model guarantees that only top-tier Travel Agents participate, ensuring their full engagement and commitment to the industry partnerships established.
The forum brought together over 250 travel agents, industry leaders, and tourism professionals from across Europe to explore the future of travel in a rapidly evolving market. Alongside strong participation from European suppliers, the event also drew in business and technology solution partners from across the globe. In total, representatives from over 20 countries were in attendance.
“TravelSMG is committed to empowering Travel Agents and fostering collaboration across the industry,” said Jim Cloonan, President at TravelSMG. “The European Travel Agent Forum has set the stage for meaningful dialogue and partnerships that will shape the future of travel across Europe.”
Agents in attendance had the opportunity to network with peers and industry leaders, fostering collaborations that will drive innovation and growth within the travel sector. They took part in unique experiences throughout the island to support their destination knowledge. Feedback from participants highlighted the value of the forum in creating connections, generating new ideas, and reinvigorating a drive for success.
Travel Agents and Suppliers took part in mutual interest appointments, generating nearly 3,500 connections. In addition to these formal business meetings, the educational program focused on the Azorean culture along with presentations from Kensington Tours, Hyatt’s Inclusive Collection European Resorts, Sagres Vacations and aliveXperiences. With a complete focus on European inbound holidays, the event offered opportunities for Travel Agents to gain in-depth knowledge while forging critical relationships with Suppliers across Europe.
The event also featured an exhibition showcasing the latest hotels and services from leading travel brands throughout the Azores, providing Agents with tools to enhance their offerings to the islands and better serve their clients.
Looking ahead, TravelSMG will announce plans soon for the 2025 European Travel Agent Forum.
ABOUT TRAVEL SHOW MARKETING GROUP
Travel Show Marketing Group (TravelSMG) is an independent organization offering solutions that drive success in the B2B leisure vacation market. Since 2009 TravelSMG has partnered with thousands of tourism clients to engage and empower the North American Travel Agent community through education, networking, and global experiences. Their diverse range of engagement solutions includes large-scale trade shows, specialized niche-focused events, and a comprehensive suite of digital opportunities. All of their solutions work together to help their Supplier Partners enhance their visibility among Travel Sellers. For more information on TravelSMG and their full suite of events, visit www.TravelSMG.com .
PRESS RELEASE FROM CENTRAL HOLIDAYS
Moonachie, NJ – (October 22, 2024) – Central Holidays is proud to announce the launch of a pioneering technology system aimed at simplifying and enhancing the booking process for travel advisors and group planners. The revolutionary system, developed over a two-year period with extensive input from industry professionals, includes a comprehensive website designed to streamline the booking of complex tour products and manage intricate travel arrangements seamlessly, all online. Read the rest of this entry »
Portland, OR, October 21, 2024 – To celebrate its 43rd anniversary, custom tour operator Avanti Destinations is offering advisors a $25 gift card for each FIT* land booking of $4,000 or more made between October 1 and October 31, 2024 for travel any time between October 1, 2024 – March 31, 2025, with a deposit made by October 31. Bookings may be made either online at https://book.avantidestinations.com or by calling Avanti’s reservation center.
“Because Avanti only sells through travel advisors Read the rest of this entry »
