There are certain phrases that, when I hear them, run straight up my back, evoking an instant tension deep in my soul. They are my "hot buttons." We all have them, I'm sure. Here at work, they break my heart.
Ours is a service-based business. We offer a service to our ITAs. Sometimes, for any number of reasons, people cancel. I know that we'll lose some ITAs, and I prepare for that. Every cancellation is important, and, when we receive a cancellation form, I look it over and take it seriously. It asks why, and includes a very brief satisfaction survey.
Usually, there's just a one-line simple sentence, like, "no time", or "in school" or something to indicate a change in lifestyle. And then there are those that hit my hot buttons. It doesn't happen often, but every once in a while, I'll see something like, "Not making money" or "Haven't used the service".
Please forgive the trangression, but... DUH! We offer a business opportunity. We provide support services, credentials, websites, booking systems, accounting and more for folks all over the country that want to be a part of the world of travel. We give them all of the support they need, so that they can build a business by marketing travel-even without experience in the travel business. On the inside, we have a full service call center with genuine, experienced travel professionals that offer guidance, work with the clients, book and manage travel sales, provide sales support and more. Its a great system and a great way to get into the travel business. We do not, however, include a golden egg.
All things considered, travel is probably one of the most marketable products in the world. I've said it before, and I'll say it again: every day, everywhere I go, I encounter people that react excitedly when they hear I'm in the travel business. It's been like this for over 20 years, and it never changes. So, how is it that anyone can think that it's not working?
We have many very successful ITAs that enjoy the income they earn by promoting travel. Several of our folks enjoy substantial travel benefits by promoting groups; earning higher returns and often free travel for themselves.
Any business takes work, time, and money and results are directly proportionate to investment. Our most successful ITAs are out there meeting people, making presentations, handing out business cards, managing thier database, keeping frequent communication, and working thier system. That's how they're successful.
Somebody hit my hot button today.
When Travel is your passion,
Gulliver's Travels is your
Work-at-home Solution!
(941) 328-6800
Call for Business Opportunity Information or
for Travel Services!
ITA #1153299
www.GulliversUSA.com/1153299
Tell us your read the blog!
Tuesday, November 25, 2008
Friday, November 21, 2008
Today's Travel Fashion Destination
Each decade seems to bring with it a small selection of "Hot Destinations". The 'it" places to which the well-heeled and well-traveled flock. In the late 1980s, Australia was the spot, then as we worked into the 1990s, Italy shared the spotlight. In the 2000s, its been Spain. Recently, a newcomer has emerged on the scene making a huge splash with Travel Fashionistas: Dubai.
Dubai had not placed high on the charts for the average American traveler previously, but in recent years, has made a grand entrance into the minds of travelers looking for something new and different. It's an amazing place, with sculpted landforms in the sea, and buildings of such great opulence that even the world's wealthiest are awed. Western and Eastern lifestyles are equally welcomed.
Seemingly untouched by regional politics, as it continues on its nearly-unimaginable sprawl, Dubai is a new center world banking, which helps to insulate it from the distress of the area.
For those not familiar with this johnny-come-lately destination, here's a brief introduction into what makes this city remarkable:
Enormous man-made islands, on which are built palatial homes, skyscraper condos and hotels, and busy marinas serving world-class yachts, for starters. There are the Palm Islands, which, from a bird's eye view reveal the formation of a Queen Palm tree sprouting from the coast. Then there is The World: a formation of islands that are shaped as if they are a map of our world, made up of a multitude of islands in varying sizes for everything from private, single-estates to sweeping commercial developments.
The city's collection of resorts and hotels will astound even the most well-traveled luxury seeker. Of course, the Burj Al Arab is by now very well known, but there are many others; perhaps not all as imposing in stature, but certainly equally magnificent in luxury.
Shopping is an attraction unto itself in Dubai. This is another area where one is sure to find an East-West blend, with regional treasures like carpets, gold, and jewelry, as well as established western designers, offering all forms of fashion. The Blue Souk (Central Market) is a busy and colorful market in Sharjah, and is famous for its carpet and gold shops, where one will find an enormous selection of Persian rugs, and blinding gold.
Although Dubai is an ultra-modern city, it has grown from the desert, with its heart and soul rooted in the sand dunes of the Arabian Peninsula. Desert activities are popular with both visitors and residents. Desert experiences include a midnight stay at an oasis under the stars in a bedouin camp, complete with camels tethered nearby, and for adventurers, there is the thrill of 4 or 3-wheeling through the endless dunes. Falconry is an ancient sport, and maintains its popularity throughout the Middle East even today.
Every great resort destinations offers a share of perennial favorites in the way of activities: golf, and water sports for example, and Dubai is no different, but its the restaurants and nightlife in Dubai that really make this city rock, with a wide selection of cuisines, entertainment, and clubs.
This destination is not for the weak-of-wallet, however. This is a destination where Multi-Millionaires-even Billionaires abound. Like many high-cost destinations, a cruise may be the best way for value-minded travelers to visit this city. In fact, one of our more active agents is leading the charge with a group traveling to Dubai on a cruise in February. The response she has gotten has been tremendous; far exceeding her expectations.
Naturally, she'll earn her share of the commission, which is likely to exceed $5000, but it also looks like she'll be cruising free. That's a great way to travel anywhere! We've had many individual bookings for Dubai, but I believe this group is but one of many to come. That's the beauty of being an independent associate: choose where you want to go, take a group, make money, and travel free! How can it get any better?
As a relative newcomer to travel fashion, I look forward to seeing all our ITAs recognizing the appeal of this sparkling destination, and making the most of the opportunity that this new destination offers. With the spike in travelers' interest, and a rapidly-expanding reputation, I expect Dubai will outlive its trendiness, and earn a permanent spot on the worldwide Hotspot list.
When Travel is your passion,
Gulliver's Travels is your
Work-at-home Solution!
(941) 328-6800
Call for Business Opportunity Information or
for Travel Services!
ITA #1153299
www.GulliversUSA.com/1153299
Tell us your read the blog!
Dubai had not placed high on the charts for the average American traveler previously, but in recent years, has made a grand entrance into the minds of travelers looking for something new and different. It's an amazing place, with sculpted landforms in the sea, and buildings of such great opulence that even the world's wealthiest are awed. Western and Eastern lifestyles are equally welcomed.
Seemingly untouched by regional politics, as it continues on its nearly-unimaginable sprawl, Dubai is a new center world banking, which helps to insulate it from the distress of the area.
For those not familiar with this johnny-come-lately destination, here's a brief introduction into what makes this city remarkable:
Enormous man-made islands, on which are built palatial homes, skyscraper condos and hotels, and busy marinas serving world-class yachts, for starters. There are the Palm Islands, which, from a bird's eye view reveal the formation of a Queen Palm tree sprouting from the coast. Then there is The World: a formation of islands that are shaped as if they are a map of our world, made up of a multitude of islands in varying sizes for everything from private, single-estates to sweeping commercial developments.
The city's collection of resorts and hotels will astound even the most well-traveled luxury seeker. Of course, the Burj Al Arab is by now very well known, but there are many others; perhaps not all as imposing in stature, but certainly equally magnificent in luxury.
Shopping is an attraction unto itself in Dubai. This is another area where one is sure to find an East-West blend, with regional treasures like carpets, gold, and jewelry, as well as established western designers, offering all forms of fashion. The Blue Souk (Central Market) is a busy and colorful market in Sharjah, and is famous for its carpet and gold shops, where one will find an enormous selection of Persian rugs, and blinding gold.
Although Dubai is an ultra-modern city, it has grown from the desert, with its heart and soul rooted in the sand dunes of the Arabian Peninsula. Desert activities are popular with both visitors and residents. Desert experiences include a midnight stay at an oasis under the stars in a bedouin camp, complete with camels tethered nearby, and for adventurers, there is the thrill of 4 or 3-wheeling through the endless dunes. Falconry is an ancient sport, and maintains its popularity throughout the Middle East even today.
Every great resort destinations offers a share of perennial favorites in the way of activities: golf, and water sports for example, and Dubai is no different, but its the restaurants and nightlife in Dubai that really make this city rock, with a wide selection of cuisines, entertainment, and clubs.
This destination is not for the weak-of-wallet, however. This is a destination where Multi-Millionaires-even Billionaires abound. Like many high-cost destinations, a cruise may be the best way for value-minded travelers to visit this city. In fact, one of our more active agents is leading the charge with a group traveling to Dubai on a cruise in February. The response she has gotten has been tremendous; far exceeding her expectations.
Naturally, she'll earn her share of the commission, which is likely to exceed $5000, but it also looks like she'll be cruising free. That's a great way to travel anywhere! We've had many individual bookings for Dubai, but I believe this group is but one of many to come. That's the beauty of being an independent associate: choose where you want to go, take a group, make money, and travel free! How can it get any better?
As a relative newcomer to travel fashion, I look forward to seeing all our ITAs recognizing the appeal of this sparkling destination, and making the most of the opportunity that this new destination offers. With the spike in travelers' interest, and a rapidly-expanding reputation, I expect Dubai will outlive its trendiness, and earn a permanent spot on the worldwide Hotspot list.
When Travel is your passion,
Gulliver's Travels is your
Work-at-home Solution!
(941) 328-6800
Call for Business Opportunity Information or
for Travel Services!
ITA #1153299
www.GulliversUSA.com/1153299
Tell us your read the blog!
Well, so much for that
Here we are, three weeks post election, and the economy continues to fail miserably. I guess I missed the mark with my prediction. Not that I believe(d) our new President-elect can solve these problems, but I did believe that the American people, so many of whom are completely entranced with Mr. Obama, would react with jubilation and optimism, creating an instant surge in consumer confidence. This, I thought, would bring about a swift reaction by infusing our economy with retail spending, creating a downline effect with impact on everything from unemployment to the stock market. Oh well; so much for that.
One sign of optimism is shining through the gloom; we've received a surge in inquiries concerning our business opportunities for Independent Travel Associates. This means that people are starting to reach out for the light at the end of the tunnel; looking for a new way to create income and enjoy the fun of the travel business. Good for them-and a hearty welcome to all of our new ITAs! This will be an exciting journey for you!
Back in Travelland, this is a slow time of year anyway. Anyone traveling for the winter holidays should have already booked by now. Other than that, people are thinking about holiday activities and spending, which, in this economy is making life rough for many of us.
Nonetheless, we are not without business and activity. Surprisingly, many folks are looking ahead to both the Inauguration and President's Day. The Inauguration is a big event this time around, due to aforementioned throngs of admirers. We have been chartering buses and booking hotels, though most of the hotels that are available are a couple of hours or more away from Washington DC. Still, when one travels from California or Texas, or various other far-flung areas, a two or three hour drive for festivities is a small price to pay-especially when that drive is saving you $500.00 per night or more.
President's weekend is always a popular getaway weekend-especially for those that live in the Northeast. The folks that are booking now are smart, and will be able to enjoy a stress-free getaway while their friends and families go through the last-minute scramble of trying to find anything they can book. Florida is a classic President's Day weekend destination with beaches packed on both coasts.
For those of you that have been around for a year or more, you know what is happening now; GROUPS! We're getting incredible cruise group specials now, and of course that includes Europe and Alaska; both of which must be booked in November if you want good dates, rates, and space. If you love escorting groups-or just traveling free-this is the time of year to grab your reservations, so do it now.
Ski has been pretty quiet for us this year; I'm not sure why this is, but I don't believe that America is sitting this ski season out. If expense is the problem, perhaps skiers need to look to less-expensive destinations such as North Carolina or New England, rather than the ever-popular Western destinations.
Well, the wait for wealth continues, but in the meanwhile we can still live the travel dream.
When Travel is your passion,
Gulliver's Travels is your
Work-at-home Solution!
(941) 328-6800
Call for Business Opportunity Information or
for Travel Services!
ITA #1153299
www.GulliversUSA.com/1153299
Tell us your read the blog!
One sign of optimism is shining through the gloom; we've received a surge in inquiries concerning our business opportunities for Independent Travel Associates. This means that people are starting to reach out for the light at the end of the tunnel; looking for a new way to create income and enjoy the fun of the travel business. Good for them-and a hearty welcome to all of our new ITAs! This will be an exciting journey for you!
Back in Travelland, this is a slow time of year anyway. Anyone traveling for the winter holidays should have already booked by now. Other than that, people are thinking about holiday activities and spending, which, in this economy is making life rough for many of us.
Nonetheless, we are not without business and activity. Surprisingly, many folks are looking ahead to both the Inauguration and President's Day. The Inauguration is a big event this time around, due to aforementioned throngs of admirers. We have been chartering buses and booking hotels, though most of the hotels that are available are a couple of hours or more away from Washington DC. Still, when one travels from California or Texas, or various other far-flung areas, a two or three hour drive for festivities is a small price to pay-especially when that drive is saving you $500.00 per night or more.
President's weekend is always a popular getaway weekend-especially for those that live in the Northeast. The folks that are booking now are smart, and will be able to enjoy a stress-free getaway while their friends and families go through the last-minute scramble of trying to find anything they can book. Florida is a classic President's Day weekend destination with beaches packed on both coasts.
For those of you that have been around for a year or more, you know what is happening now; GROUPS! We're getting incredible cruise group specials now, and of course that includes Europe and Alaska; both of which must be booked in November if you want good dates, rates, and space. If you love escorting groups-or just traveling free-this is the time of year to grab your reservations, so do it now.
Ski has been pretty quiet for us this year; I'm not sure why this is, but I don't believe that America is sitting this ski season out. If expense is the problem, perhaps skiers need to look to less-expensive destinations such as North Carolina or New England, rather than the ever-popular Western destinations.
Well, the wait for wealth continues, but in the meanwhile we can still live the travel dream.
When Travel is your passion,
Gulliver's Travels is your
Work-at-home Solution!
(941) 328-6800
Call for Business Opportunity Information or
for Travel Services!
ITA #1153299
www.GulliversUSA.com/1153299
Tell us your read the blog!
Thursday, November 6, 2008
Look out! Here it comes!
The election is finally over; a big relief. Needless to say, the economy was a major issue in the election, and our new President-Elect had a lot of popular support because of the belief that he will be able to improve the state of the economy. That belief alone is likely to spur consumer confidence and thereby stimulate new spending; a driving force in the economy. In addition, even prrior to the election, fuel prices have started falling; down to $2.25 in my home community! I drive 150 miles a day, so that's a great relief.
Whether your candidate won or lost, I believe that America will see near-instant reaction, based on increased consumer confidence, and this is good news for everybody. With the holidays drawing near, and the biggest travel-sales season just around the corner, now is the time to promote and sell travel! Hot items right now are ski packages, and cruises and tours to Alaska and Europe, (advance bookings for summer). So, if you've been holding off or restricting your spending, now is the time to breathe a little easier, and start thinking about having fun again.
If you're ready to start a new business, call us or visit our website and find out how travel can change your life.
When Travel is your passion,
Gulliver's Travels is your
Work-at-home Solution!
941) 328-6800
Call for Business Opportunity Information or
for Travel Services!
ITA #1153299
www.GulliversUSA.com/1153299
Tell us your read the blog!
Whether your candidate won or lost, I believe that America will see near-instant reaction, based on increased consumer confidence, and this is good news for everybody. With the holidays drawing near, and the biggest travel-sales season just around the corner, now is the time to promote and sell travel! Hot items right now are ski packages, and cruises and tours to Alaska and Europe, (advance bookings for summer). So, if you've been holding off or restricting your spending, now is the time to breathe a little easier, and start thinking about having fun again.
If you're ready to start a new business, call us or visit our website and find out how travel can change your life.
When Travel is your passion,
Gulliver's Travels is your
Work-at-home Solution!
941) 328-6800
Call for Business Opportunity Information or
for Travel Services!
ITA #1153299
www.GulliversUSA.com/1153299
Tell us your read the blog!
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