How can Past Cruise Passengers can get their best rates ? Where to AVOID buying directly !

This weekend, I met a very nice lady and her boyfriend at my “Open House Collectibles must move out, Tag Sale”. Of course, she had seen my name and our logo on my truck. We naturally talked about cruises.


When I meet folks, and we get on the cruising topic, I automatically ask, “Do you buy your cruises online (I don’t ask if they buy locally; cause I hope they do) ?”. Naturally I ask this, since our company is the cruise distribution house for Orbitz, Hotwire, Priceline, the Airlines, and more; and there are still so many folks in Lynchburg, VA, who have yet to hear from my existing customers, that we are here locally, for them (and their out-of-state referrals) to buy directly with us for the Best Prices Guarantee; avoiding the “net“ and keeping their MONEY IN LYNCHBURG.


She immediately responded with, “ I book directly at the cruise line because they specifically give me a special offer”.

Surely, I seemed a little shocked when I responded with, “Are you under the impressions that this is an Exclusive offer, where you must book directly through the cruise line ?”.

She said yes.

Weeeeeeeeeeee.

Oh, you poor lady ! WRONG.







Her booking directly at the cruise line actually means she has …

* Not only taken her money away from Lynchburg (it can not in turn, come back around to her)

* She has taken away that security of buying local, or if not local, from someone she could get to know personally.

* Sadly true, she is missing out on working with the expertise of agents in the cruising field AND someone who has probably been around for years (unlike at the cruise line, who has 24/7 turn around) !

* AND, she no longer has that middle man, that Famous Travel Writers suggest you need, when buying a cruise, to “FIGHT YOUR BATTLES” when the UNEXPECTED HAPPENS !

*  And, she may not have the best available rate or amenities.

PLEASE KNOW. Past Passenger Rates, offered by the cruise lines for “loyalty” are NOT EXCLUSIVE ! Every travel agent and cruise specialist in the World, has access to these Past Passenger Rates to give all their customers (new callers) !




AND … Do yourself a favor, DON'T book direct at the cruise line; DON'T play your own travel agent. I don’t know which is worse: Booking direct or booking on the net, in reference to YOUR SECURITY (your back) !


Truly, I feel sorry for any cruiser or vacationer who does not have their own agent, local or not, that they can entrust with any and all information that may be needed !


ALSO KNOW: Past Passenger rates are NOT ALWAYS the best prices. So be aware ! AND know, even with Past Passenger rates, if you are working with a distribution house, there may be more amenities you can have, than just the rate !


REMEMBER MEANINGS:

ADVERTISED CRUISE LINE SALE. This is NOT EXCLUSIVE.

BEST PRICE GUARANTEE or LOWEST PRICE GUARANTEE only means, you won’t see a lower rate elsewhere (it does NOT MEAN EXCLUSIVE). We advertise this, because it is true. Carnival now advertises this, cause it is true; they have Best Price Guarantee, but it is NOT EXCLUSIVE !

EXCLUSIVE. Now, this means Exclusive. This means you can only receive buy buying at that location.

Find yourself an agent you can trust … Whether it be local or not local !


Being able to entrust is important, but also know their …

* Level of expertise !

* Direct connection and level of connectivity to the cruise line !

* AND, how they process payment (and always use your credit card for payments); beware of agencies that will accept cash, even if you use credit card; be sure to ask !

Carnival Cruises Line claims "Best Price Guarantee". What does this actually mean ? Be aware of words; It's NOT Exclusivity !

“Best Price Guarantee”


Due to advertising strategies, most folks believe these words mean MORE than what it actually means.

It sounds like, it means, “You can NOT get better rates anywhere else, except for here“. That is most certainly NOT what it means.

It ONLY means, “You will NOT receive a lower rate elsewhere“.  Hey, WE too use this slogan (matter of fact, this logo to the left is what we use).



You say, isn’t that the same thing ? NO.

Do NOT opt to read more into it. It is NOT saying that you can NOT find this same rate elsewhere ! It does NOT say, it’s EXCLUSIVE.


Carnival rates are NOT EXCLUSIVE to guest who buy directly at Carnival.

So what does this mean ?

It only means, that what Carnival has to offer, is the same rates elsewhere !

Like where ? Actually EVERYWHERE !

KNOW, due to “Travel Industry Law”, the cruise lines CAN NOT offer you, the consumer, a lower rate directly, than what you can receive at EVERY TRAVEL AGENT !  So if there's a Military Rate, Senior, Past Guest, ect, your agent can get this for you too !

AND ... As of August 1, 2012, no agency can give a lower rate to cruisers, that what is being offered by Carnival themselves. This includes gifts (agents can not give gifts, other than basically, something like a tote bag).




  So why does Carnival advertise this way, in leading folks to think they can only get the lowest rates by buying directly through them ?
For 1 … It sounds good doesn’t it !

#2, Carnival wants to make it VERY CLEAR to everyone, that a cruiser can NO LONGER receive lower rates off the “net”, like in year past.

Therefore, what you receive from them, you will receive EQUALLY from anywhere else !

In some ways this is GREAT. Those folks who love to check every internet site out there (Oh, and I love all those folks, who do not know how this industry works & will CALL EVERY AGENCY IN TOWN ....hehehe.  I shouldn't laugh, they WASTE MY TIME TOO), will NO LONGER have to do this. What you see on Carnival site or your Travel Agents site or on the “net” will all be the same rates.

REMEMBER, the value of a Travel Agent was NEVER ABOUT RATE ! And those who opted in making this #1, have probably missed the boat on many a thing (I would ultimately love to LOL here, but surfing & buying from the net have most definately hurt all of us; while folks opted to take money out of our pockets, they also took money from their own hand; not to mention, mistakenly thinking they got a better deal ) !  But here again, due to “hep” advertising, too many folks were led to believe it was all about rate !



The value of your Travel Agent (or cruise specialist) is for …

1) Fight your unpredictable/unforseen battles - be the go-between person (cruise line and personal). If you could see into your future, you could avoid or waiver from the unexpected, but YOU CAN’T ! That’s why you have the agent … For what MIGHT happen ! Being prepared is key in where you buy your cruise !

Just like those folks say to me, if I knew I was going to be sick, I would have bought the Trip Cancellation Insurance !  daaah !  But don't you buy insurance for your car & house in advance !  Jeees, Louise; same concept !

2) Insight and expertise advice. Hopefully you choose an agent, that has either cruised a lot or has specifically cruised your destination. If not, then you’re not looking wholly out for yourself. Your agent should have tips, guidance, and ward you from that which can bite you !


When I say bite you, I’m talking about …

1) All that stuff you’ve learned from friends who cruised or the media, that may have told you wrongly !

2) Your lack in “travel sense”, no matter how much you think you’ve traveled !

I'm not meaning to hurt your feelings or knock you down, but it was NEVER YOUR JOB to buy your own travel !  That's why the experts are here.  That's why the travel industry PAYS agents to be here !  To take care of you !  To look after you !  In many cases, you NEVER PAY A DIME to have this complimentary service.  So, it's actually in YOUR HANDS to choose to protect yourself with the value of a Travel Agent (cruise specialist).


Travel agents (cruise specialist) should be considered one of your best friends, like your banker, if your banker tends to look out for you ! Cause the longer they are in this business, the MORE PROBLEMS that they have not only encountered, but had to find a resolution for (that is, if problem solving is one of their forte’s).

And PLEASE STOP worrying yourself over trying to find that “deal on the net“.

#1, How could the consumer know, what a deal is anyway ? Don't play advocate here !

#2, As mentioned above, trust your travel agent (cruise specialist); call them as soon as you see a deal and buy from them (85% of the time, local regular agents have access to any rate you see) !



Why do I say estimate 85% ?

#1, I mentioned above, the cruise line, by law, can not give you a lower rate than you can get with your agent

#2, as the Nations Largest Cruise-Only distribution house for the cruise lines, we only have EXCLUSIVE, 1500+ dates and promotions, to save you money ! And none on Carnival (due to August 1, 2012 new Carnival ruling).  So there are another 85% dates, plus all Carnival date, that our rate too, is equal to the cruise line. In some ways, 15% is like a needle in a hay stack with as many sailings out there.

I’m not suggesting we can’t save you money … Cause we can.  Instead, I am only suggesting, “rate” should not be your #1 concern (safety of your vacation & money, #1) … AND I am preaching here >>> DO NOT TURN TO THE NET ! Just like in our situation, if you buy from Orbitz, Hotwire, Priceline, the Airlines & others, KNOW, that they are buying their cruises from US; which means, you are putting a middle man between US and YOU.



In closing, remember the philosophy, “If it looks to good to be true, you’re probably right” … and … “You can’t get something for nothing” ! Don’t get wrapped up in industry jargin or hoopla advertising. Always trust your agent (or a distribution house that the industry gives awards to) to tell you what you need to know, even if the truth is not what you want to hear !

Independent Traveler Reveals Top Secrets of Travel Writers. Have you thought of these 10 ?

Online, Independent Traveler reveals 35 “tips” for travelers, given by Travel Writers. A couple, I didn’t quite agree with, and others, I just didn’t choose to include here on my blog. You can finish reading the article if you choose:

http://www.independenttraveler.com/travel-tips/troubleshooting/35-travel-tips-revealed-top-secrets-of-travel-writers/2



Here are a few I choose to make comments over …

1)  “Book your accommodations directly on the hotel's own Web site” (Pamela Jones, Travel Site Critic).

My personal comments. I have personally spoke with hotels, and been told, that not booking direct with them, can often mean, not receiving the best locations. Also, I’ve been told, call the hotel direct and see if the will give you any rate you have seen !

2)  "Place a plastic bag under the screw caps of soaps and shampoos and tie the bag around the bottle. This way if the cap opens, the bottle spills into the bag, not on your clothes." (Annemarie Dooling, Frill Seeker Diary)

My personal comments.  Under the screw caps ? Hhmmm. I just place the items in a separate zip log bag, for the same purpose. Also hairspray and deodorant !

3)  "Do away with bringing loads of money on European trips and simply pack your debit card. ATM machines are all over the place in major cities and work the same way as they do here in America.” (Andrew Hickey, The Brooklyn Nomad)

My personal comments.  Because most of my trips are totally on cruises, even when in Europe, I simply find that I seldom need cash or foreign money. Taking land packages can be different. I was in Japan, 2 days prior to my cruise, and most definitely needed cash ! To get cash there, 6 years ago, was like going into the bank and getting a bank loan, for real ! Once I was in Greece and needed more money, and actually used my credit card in the ATM and it worked easily !

4)  "To prevent leaving your phone charger in your hotel room when you check out (which, alas, happened to me once), unplug the charger every time you remove your phone and put it back in your luggage.” (Veronica Stoddart, USA Today)

My personal comments. Personally, this is how I do it. Just like the morning I get up to leave for a trip, the first thing I do, when I get out of bed, is grab my cell phone and the charger !

5)  "Low-cost airlines aren't always the cheapest. The ticket price may appear to be a bargain, but take a minute to tally the additional expenses. These include items such as booking fees, check-in baggage fees, advance seat reservation fees, and food and drinks on board.

My personal comments.  It's your choice if you want to take the time and add all this up prior to making your flight decision. Allegiant Air seemed to have a lot of little fees prior to the taxes having to be given forth front ! I hear Southwest may not have so many fees that others do.

6)  "Remain FLEXIBLE and have BACK-UP PLANS. Expect things to go wrong -- the rental agent not to answer his phone; delays that keep you from getting to town before the restaurants close; your wallet to be stolen; your passport to be lost. That way you won't spend precious hours freaking out ... you can simply move to Plan B. (My Plan B's for the above: cell phone number too; cans of soup/nutrition bars; documents copied at home for quick resolution.) If you don't already have a Plan B, take a deep breath (or 10) and figure it out." (Lisa Bergren, The World Is Calling)

My personal comments.  This one is my favorite for today … “EXPECT THINGS TO GO WRONG !” We all, in general, expect everything to go smoothly and as expected, but it is not always true ! Could be a “natural disaster” interferes; an unforeseen circumstance; or maybe it‘s folks you encounter with. Remember, we’re living with other people’s lives out there ! Not everyone is detailed; not everyone remembers everything; not every one cares; not everyone is giving 110%; and not everyone has their work solely on their mind; and REMEMBER, EVERYONE THINKS TOTALLY DIFFERENT THAN YOU - We all need to work on accepting, that No 2 people actually think alike (see my Coaching Blog) ! Sure, we would naturally like to fire these folks ourselves, but you know that's not going to happen !

More. Here’s just 3 of my own personal situations that went wrong:

* Once in Seattle, I planned 3 days of tours, prior to my cruise, with Greyhound of Seattle. When picking up my docs at the Seattle airport, the lady attendant, later told me, on the day I was coming back home, that she had been fighting with her BF. Anyway, she left out all the transfers. I had to get my own self around, which cost me a fortune. Upon returning home, and contacting Greyhound, even as a Travel Agent, they not only never refunded my money, they never even responded to my letter and calls. You can imagine I will NEVER use them again, NOR REFER anyone to them; not because of her, but because of their lack in responding !

* Upon leaving Lynchburg airport, one of my flights was unable to leave. The airline kindly put me on another airline. The other airline, failed to book me all the way, only to the next airport. FUN ! Spent hours fixing and I did not arrive till the next day !

* Was headed for a cruise in South America. The original airline, no longer would be flying back from the city I was returning from. I knew this in advance; and they set me up with a new airline. Because this was all new, the Lynchburg airline did not remember to give me return tickets from that other airline. KNOW, you must have these tickets. Upon trying to come home, the other airline, though they could see our names (yes, I had a group), they would not let us on. I had to rebuy the tickets; yes, I had to use my credit card to pay all ! Once home, took me 3 months to get this money back from the original airline. You can not imagine what I went through and the hoops I personally jumped !

More. Know … I am a very positive person. However, I often tend to think the worst; that way, when it turns out to NOT be as big, I’m not quite as shocked; truly, I don’t like surprises and this is how I help my own self !

More. I don’t necessarily have plan B already set up when I travel, but I am a very detailed person ! In my own personal cruising tips for my clients, a few things I remind them are, to take phone numbers & their cell phone; not to put all their money in one place; pack your underwear in your carry-on; never pack your meds and keep a list in your pocketbook, etc !

More. Matter of fact, when you plan like this, you most often never need it ! It’s just like buying Trip Cancellation Insurance … I have folks who buy it, because they say it “wards off disaster” and they never need the insurance … It’s not only a smart gesture, but practical !

7)  Lastly for today … "Ten Essentials for Traveling Well:
1. Smiles
2. An open mind
3. Tolerance
4. Laughter
5. Flexibility
6. Mindfulness
7. Curiosity
8. Manners
9. Gratitude
10. Serendipity" (Peggy Coonley, Serendipity Traveler)

My personal comments.  I thought these might be good for me to add to my clients cruising tips, as a reminder in having a fun vacation !

8)  This one is from me.  When things happen, don't take it out on each other.  Stop and think, that the reason you are upset and irritable is because of the situation at hand and not each other !

9)  This one is from me.  It's not worth getting so upset that you ruin your vacation !  Trust me.  Down the road, you can choose & WILL laugh at what happened to you (turn it into a funny story for others to hear), as I have.

10)  This one is from me.  If you have chosen to travel less or fly less, because of the distasters or hassles you have heard of, YOU ARE THE ONE MISSING THE BOAT !  It's not worth staying home and not traveling and not having fun, just over disasters or things you've heard !   I personally do not have the patience for folks who give me this sad story.  And feel sorry for you, that you have actually chosen this path !


Food for thought:  How often do you go to the drive-thru to pick up your meal, only to find out, once home, what you ordered is not in the bag ?  If this doesn't happen to you all the time, then it must be only to me.  Anyway, my point ... It's not any different !   You get mad, even possibly call that restaurant !  But you keep going back ! 

Do travelers dare continue to assume that best deals for Hotel and Airfare are online ! Maybe it’s to your advantage to know !

For years, many a travel writer has suggested, "buy your Airfare and Hotel direct with the provider” versus on the net; yet your cruises and land tour packages (Ex. All-Inclusives), be sure to purchase from a “specialist”, rather than directly !  

Strangely, statistics prove that 50% consumers have this ALL backwards.  They're not taking advantage of the expertise of the specialist at their finger times, and they're under the wrong assupting that they are treated equally when they opt to buy Hotel and Airfare from the net !

In the New York Times, Stephanie Rosenbloom writes an article and asks, “Should travelers assume that the best deals always come from online ? Direct bookings may result in higher profits for hotels and airlines, but there are benefits for consumers, too.”


Please NOTE, insight below is in reference to buying hotel nights, not hotel packages, such as All-Inclusives, etc.

“When price-shopping for a hotel, keep in mind that many chains now promise that their rates are the same or better than those found anywhere else. For instance, Starwood Hotels and Resorts — the parent company of brands including St. Regis, W, Westin, Le Méridien, Sheraton and Four Points — offers a “best rate guarantee.”

“More hotels are following suit. Last year, InterContinental Hotels Group, which includes Crowne Plaza Hotels and Resorts and Holiday Inn, introduced a “best price guarantee” for anyone booking on IHG.com and its other brand Web sites. And this year, Wyndham Hotel Group — which includes brands like Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, Ramada, Days Inn, Super 8, Howard Johnson and Travelodge — introduced a Web site for all of its brands, which, according to the company, is “designed to recapture business by driving more bookings through the company’s own channels.” The site guarantees rates and offers tools to sort results by categories like price and amenities.”

Airlines are actually beginning to make these same type claims.

Her article mentions Frontier Airline’s latest announcement: “Travelers who do not book directly with the airline will pay higher fees, receive half as many frequent flier miles and will not be allowed to select a seat in advance of check-in.”

“A spokeswoman for JetBlue said that its Web site is its preferred booking option and that it has a best-fare guarantee. Delta Air Lines also has a best-fare guarantee. If travelers buy a ticket on Delta.com and then find a fare for the same itinerary that is at least $10 lower on another site, Delta will refund the difference — and provide a $100 Delta travel voucher. Alternatively, travelers can simply accept a refund. Other airlines, including American and United, have also made low-fare pledges. In addition to price guarantees, companies are using social media to dangle exclusive deals.”



MYTH: YOUR ROOM OR PLANE SEAT WILL BE THE SAME WHETHER OR NOT YOU BOOK DIRECT

NOTE: “Executives at hotels and airlines said they can deliver a more personalized experience when travelers book directly. That means guests may have a better chance of getting the bed or room type they want. Passengers who book directly with airlines can select a particular seat or buy priority boarding.”

NOTE: “Meanwhile, a site like Expedia allows you to request seats, but as the site notes when you choose a seat: “We will share your seating requests with the airlines, but we cannot guarantee your request will be honored.” There is no option for add-ons like priority boarding or more-legroom seats either.”




Another thing that’s not going to happen with a third-party site? Racking up loyalty points.

What about booking Airfare or Hotel through a Travel Agency ?

From Vivian:   It’s great with only one phone call to an agent, if you must make a change to your Airfare or Hotel stay; however, honesty, agents can not get you a better rate, though they too, basically are booking directly for you; and you most often pay fees to receive these services. My suggestion is, just book these on your own. It is better to personally have access to these records yourself, allowing you make changes as many times as you want !

I think of all the corporate travel and the employees unknowingly continuing to buy online; or companies paying all these fees when they could have someone in house buy for them !

Have you yet to try a Regent Seven Seas Cruise ? Maybe it’s about time to check them out !

Lately, as folks return from their cruise and call to share their experiences with me, the words I am hearing from a few, are actually beginning to sound repetitive . Such as, “They seem to be really cutting back on their quality”, or, “I’m beginning to feel nickel and dimed”.

Actually, it’s understandable, that these cruises lines would have to make some changes, with the rates continuing to be down for the last several years. Everyone is choosing balcony cabins today, and why not ! What use to cost $1,500 pp years back, can be found as low as $ 7.99. However, folks are beginning to come back a little disappointed !



Well, maybe it’s truly time to check out and choose to cruise on a Regent Seven Seas Cruise ! Rather than taking away, Regent literally seem to constantly be adding to their list of amenities ! Just lately, unlimited shore excursions.

Several of my clients have chosen to go this way of Regent lately. And whether they were first time cruises or avid “set on a particular cruise line” cruiser, they each, can hardly wait to come back and express their new love experience for cruising !

And WHY NOT … You will “Enjoy The Most Inclusive Luxury Cruise ExperienceTM Ever. This is cruising as it was meant to be — a world where everything is included, without exception and without compromise. Personal service soars into the sublime aboard our elegant ships, liberating you to follow your heart, fulfill your desires, and explore exciting new places in complete and absolute comfort. Expect gratifying luxuries. Anticipate the world’s most exotic destinations. Indulge in world-class cuisine. Trust that your voyage will be enlightening in ways you never imagined. Regent Seven Seas Cruises promises an extraordinary experience. Enjoy … It’s all included.”

Regent Seven Seas Cruises fares include*...

2-for-1 Fares PLUS Additional Bonus Savings of up to $13,000 Per Suite  (From Vivian.  Note, when you see the rates, they have already been divided in 1/2, making it 2 for 1).

FREE Roundtrip Air*  (From Vivian.  Or you can get a credit if not needed)

FREE Business Class Air* in Penthouse Suites and Higher on Europe Voyages

FREE Unlimited Shore Excursions

Learn more:  http://www.rssc.com/experience/free-shore-excursions/

FREE Luxury Hotel Package

FREE Unlimited Beverages Including Fine Wines and Premium Spirits

FREE Open Bars and Lounges PLUS
In-Suite Mini-bar Replenished Daily

FREE Pre-Paid Gratuities

FREE Ground Transfers

FREE 24-hour Room Service and NO Charge for Specialty Restaurants

Elegant Casual Dress Code - Formal and Semi-Formal Attire Optional on Sailings of 16 Nights or Longer

Welcome Bottle of Champagne

Up to four gourmet restaurants including the iconic steakhouse Prime 7, plus haute French cuisine at Signatures, Continental dining at Compass Rose, casual indoor and outdoor dining at La Veranda, our new Tuscan-inspired evening restaurant Setti Mari at La Veranda and the al fresco Pool Grill

In-Suite Dining, Served Course-By-Course During Restaurant Hours

Butler Service in Penthouse Suites and Higher, Included iPad® in Suite, iPod® Docking Station and Complimentary

In-Suite Mini-Bar Setup

Fitness Programs, Sauna and Steam Rooms in the Spa

Onboard Activities Including Expert Guest Lectures, Theatre Performance and Day-Time Entertainment

Interactive Flat Screen Television in Each Suite With Extensive Media Library and Complimentary Movies-On-Demand

*Terms & Conditions. Free onboard activities excludes spa treatments, boutique items, casino, laundry, telephone, internet connection access and other personal items.




Once you begin adding up all the amenities, and realizing, it could truly be a nice change from walking away from your cruise with a $1000 tab (excursions, etc) ... You too, may come to the same conclusion, that many folks have come to.   

Is Regent ultimately calling your name ?

Check out your next destination TODAY !
http://www.rssc.com/destinations/


Order a brochure:
http://www.rssc.com/order-brochure/

What part does CLIA play in the cruise industry for you ? Does your personal agent have a CLIA certification ? And CLIA reports industry contribution to the US economy

From CLIA’s site:

Cruise Lines International Association is the world's largest cruise association and is dedicated to the promotion and growth of the cruise industry. CLIA is composed of 26 of the major cruise lines serving North America and is an organization that operates pursuant to an agreement filed with the Federal Maritime Commission under the Shipping Act of 1984 and serves as a non-governmental consultative organization to the International Maritime Organization, an agency of the United Nations.


The nonprofit Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is North America's largest cruise industry organization in terms of cruise line, industry suppliers, and travel agency membership. CLIA represents the interests of member cruise lines, 100 Executive Partners and more than 14,000 Travel agencies. CLIA participates in the regulatory and policy development process while supporting measures that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment. CLIA's Executive Partner program includes strategic relationships between key cruise industry suppliers and organizations, cruise lines, ports and shipyards and provides interaction with governmental agencies such as Homeland Security, EPA, CBP, US Coast Guard, and the FBI.


CLIA was formed in 1975 in response to a need for an association to promote the special benefits of cruising and in 2006 merged with the International Council of Cruise Lines (ICCL), a sister entity created in 1990 dedicated to participating in the regulatory and policy development process of the cruise industry. CLIA's mission is to promote policies and practices that foster a safe, secure and healthy cruise ship environment; educate and train its travel agent members; and promote and explain the value, desirability and affordability of the cruise vacation experience.


CLIA has consistently demonstrated its commitment to safety, public health, environmental responsibility, security, emergency medical response and crew care, passenger protection and supportive legislative initiatives.

CLIA's members consistently strive for:

A safe, healthy, secure shipboard environment for both passengers and crew.

Minimal environmental impact of their vessel operations on the ocean, marine life and destinations.

Adherence to regulatory initiatives, and leading the effort to improve maritime policies and procedures.

A regulatory environment that will foster the continued growth of the industry.

A safe, reliable, affordable and enjoyable cruise experience.


View more:  http://www.cruising.org/regulatory/industry-welcome

A recent report from the Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) tells us that in the United States alone, 10.4 million people took cruise vacations on CLIA member lines in 2011, contributing over $40 billion to the US economy. In 2010, the spending generated 330,000 jobs paying $15.2 billion in wages to American workers. And 10 new ships are on order for 2013-2015.

CLIA's public relations and promotional efforts urge consumers to seek advice from certified CLIA agents. With Certification, you will gain a business advantage and your clients will be assured that they are working with a Certified Cruise Counsellor.


Do you know if your personal travel/cruise agent has their CLIA certification ?  

Where do cruise group leaders come from and What is the #1 & #2 & #3 reason that cruisers travel in groups ?

(I am a day early posting this on my blog, because I will physically away from desk till noon on Monday, September 17, yet you can most certainly call me & I will be paged immediately (434) 237-3832).


Where do group leaders come from ?

Group Leaders are regular people …

(1) Just like you and me.

(2) Who are looked up to and admired for insight and more.

(3) Who most often find that others surround around them.

(4) Where folks tend to enjoy doing the same as them.

(5) And others tend to follow choices presented to them



Are group cruise leaders the same folks as just group leaders ?

Most certainly yes !

Friends and family who enjoy the “follow the leader” concept, are the same folks that will follow a group leader right onboard their upcoming cruise !



95% of cruisers love cruising.

Did you know, 80% of those who have never cruised >>> Want to !

So what could be more delightful for group leader, than to present a cruise to a group who will have an opportunity of a life time for … Fun … Relaxation … Adventure … Seeing the World … And a chance to get up from the dinner table without a “food bill” !


It’s an opportunity for group leaders to make it an event where it might be all girls (or guys) … all couples … or simply, WHY NOT, bring the whole family along … And even then, open the group to include friends of friends !

Above describes why groups may Choose to Cruise … But WHY do folks like to travel in groups, for a cruise ? To (name a few)…

(See 1, 2,& 3 below)

(4) Not miss out on an experience that another may experience

(5) Share a common experience

(6) Plan experiences as a team

(7) Have memory pictures which will include friends/family

(8) Often receive amenities that you would not had you cruised as an individual cabin

The # 1 reason … To not have to travel alone.

Did you know, 60% of folk do not ant to vacation alone !

Did you know, 40% of these are waiting for you to ask them to join you !

And the #2 reason … GROUPS JUST HAVE MORE FUN !


It’s a WIN-WIN …






Group Leaders just find out from their group (1 year to 15 months prior to vacation) …

* What month they could possibly go ?

* Will kids be included ?

* Maximum length of time folks can be away ?

* General destination to travel, like Caribbean or Bahamas ?

* Is the group willing to fly ?

Next (an others can too), looks at options on line 24/7.
You want to do your homework !  You don't want anyone making a suggestion to you, and later find out, there were other options your group may have enjoyed more !
Just go up on the cruise lines website ... DO NOT waste your time searching for some deal you think may be found out on the internet (it's not what you think; ask a cruise expert) ! 






Next, the group leader alone, contacts a "cruise specialist"to work with ... Someone they can entrust with their group (of family/friends) ... Who knows the ins-and-outs of the cruise business ! 

And if the group leader has done their homework online, they will be ready with their questions.  AND TRUST ME, don't do this online; care enough about your vacation and simply pick the phone up and speak to a human being !

Your Cruise Specialist then …

* Reserves space at the cruise line
* Makes you a link of information to send to family/friends
* Calls your guest and reserves their space
* Sends your group information, to include cruising tips and more
* Ask for group tour suggestions; flights; pre-hotel; transfers.

All that’s left for ALL … PACK !


And once onboard …. Leave it to the cruise line to entertain your guest !

You just plan to meet for DINNER (and possibly optional group tours) !

It’s as simple as that ! Which is reason # 3 … SIMPLICITY !

               

Why waste valuable time considering (a cruise) vacation if NOT ready to confirm ! Know that internet searching is driving your own rates up, while you waste around dreaming !

Vacation dreaming … it’s a wonderful thing !

Most often, I literally just get up on line and look at all kinds of things, just any time !
For me ...
*  It's a great past time.
*  Can truly be educational !
*  It’s fun, figuring out, how to take something that is complicated and make it work !

Do I always have the goal of buying ? No.
I’m often just “wishing” I could !
Or sometimes just hoping I’ll figure out how to make it work.
And, sometimes, it’s about getting the whole package at that lowest price, with a goal that forces me to just jump on it !

No matter …
Usually, when I’m looking up info, it’s in the middle of the night; only thing I’m basically loosing out on is sleep (but I was watching TV ½ way anyway) !
And sometimes, while playing around, I run across travel info that someone else might be able to use.

Sometimes, if I don’t have time to figure it all out, I have to put it down, and work on it again later. Unfortunately, when I do this, like the rest of you, I'm forced to start all over in my thinking or looking up info !

Just lately, I did this. I think it took me over 6 weeks to finally decided on my train ride, just from here to New Jersey, to catch my Bermuda cruise on Royal Caribbean. I wanted to incorporate something else; couldn‘t find that thing that jumped out at me. Finally settled, and I’m actually happy ! First to Bridgeport, CT, in hopes of some fall foliage; staying in an economy hotel, but it’s right on the water at a cost of only @ $ 65 a night ! Then we renting car, cause learned cab for 5 miles r/t @ $ 30 ! Have found a few things to do, but yet to decide.

Noticed, I said the cruise was already booked; so it was the amenities that I took a long time on. Yet, in honesty, I did take 3 weeks to decide cruise … There was one, all Bermuda for 6N’s that was only out of Baltimore; an 8N, out of Baltimore that include Bermuda, Newport, RI, and Boston; and then the one out of NJ on one of a BIG BOAT of RCI. With a little help from my roommate, we decided, the BIG BOAT was the most important concept to us !

All-n-all, what I am saying, had I just STOPPED and thought strictly on my vacation, versus all the other things going on around me, I could have gotten this over and done with and moved on with other important personal things on my to-do-list. Instead, I let this hang over my head, for awhile; actually some what frustrating me, every time I had to start over in thought.

The difference between me doing this and you, or even one of my own existing customers, is that …
* I better know the “play time” I have in making a decision.
* And even if I’m not yet making that decision, I’ll go up and watch that cruise, to be sure it does not sell out of go up in price.
* And, I have a different type computer system than you; I’m not on the cruise lines website, and not making the computer think I’m going to buy; which can actually DRIVE THE RATE UP !

So I’m actually suggesting here …
When you’re in the market, move on, by devoting specific time and get the basis of your vacation (like the cruise part) confirmed as quickly as possible !

WHY ?

* Get best price NOW, not tomorrows rate
* Get best cabins
* Get it off your to-do list and stop playing around
* You don’t have the same resources of insight that I have

AND BE AWARE …
You keep looking up that price … Like cruises … Like airfare … YOU’RE DRIVING THE RATE UP ! You’re making the computer think there’s a SUPPLY-AND-DEMAND for that sailing !

AND …
If you know people who DO NOT KNOW ANY BETTER than call every agent in town for a rate (cause they don’t realize all the rates are the same; exception, a distribution house are given lower rates, such as Cruises Inc), again …

* This person too, is not only driving up their own rates up ...

* When they are ready to “buy for real“, all the cabins MAYBE SADLY BE GONE, because …
Every agent called WILL hold a cabin !

FYI, sometimes, the cruise line does NOT put the cabin back into inventory, which in turn, will DRIVE RATES UP or cause the ship to be SOLD OUT !  Possibly, your own friends, are doing this to YOU and to the industry !

Just lately, had 2 callers …
(1) Person found me on the net; he had been planning, in his mind, to cruise on a select ship and date for over a year; called me 3 months prior to sailing to check for space; didn’t opt to buy; called 2 weeks later, ship SOLD OUT.
(2) Woman wanted to sail with friends; I reserved space & rates; didn’t opt to buy; called 2 weeks later; ship SOLD OUT.



I'm not actually fussing cause they drove their ownselves out of getting a cabin ... I'm more disappointed that they didn't just buy, when they knew space was MINIMAL before they even called me !
WHY do people do this ?

NO, I don't get it !  I've been here 21 years.  I do nothing but tell people the truth.  And even from someone who will tell you everything you want to know, they still didn't choose to listen !  Sad, everyone looses !

The name of the game … If you want to go … when you start planning ... FINISH IT ! 
OR ... get out of the way and STOP DRIVING RATES UP or SELLING THE BOAT OUT for everone else (cause the cruise line won't put the cabins back into inventory) !




Please don't be offended here (smile) ... I'm speaking up for all of us, who want to sail at a reasonable cost !

All-Inclusives and Tour Packages - Where to Buy ?

Though our company began close to 30 years ago, as a cruise-only agency, National Tour Operators have made themselves well known with us. They even climb onboard with us, and all the other cruise lines, for our National Convention Cruise each October.

Today, let’s talk about All-Inclusives and Tour Packages - Where to buy ?

KNOW: Travel agents, and now cruise specialist, for the most part, do NOT actually seek out, on their own, resorts and tour packages for their customers. They turn to Tour Operators.

KNOW: Tour Operators are not travel agents. Tour Operators are companies who check into resorts and tours, and then offer them, for travel agents/cruise-specialist, to make available to their customers.

Basically, what they have done for the industry/travel agents/cruise specialist is, check out these resorts, all around the World, for the benefit of all. In many cases, such as All-Inclusives and Resorts, they are given a star rating by the Tour Operator, to make the consumer and agents aware.

NOTE: It’s to a travelers benefit, to buy these type packages through agents who in turn, buy their vacation package though these Tour Operators. And most agents use NAME BRAND Tour Operators, such as Sandals (just like name brand Cruise Lines, such as Royal Caribbean).

NOTE: Tour Operator, such as Sandals, will also sell their vacations through other Tour Operators, such as Apple Vacations, Travel Impressions, and Fun Jet Vacations. Such as Sandals, they do not care that agents buy through these other Tour Operators (matter of fact, it then keeps two Tour Operators in business).


Most Travel Agent/Cruise Specialist let you know the name of the Tour Operator in which they buy your vacation product from.

* So you know the name brand they are using

* In case it's a company you have used before and do/do not want to use again


When a Travel Agent/Cruise Specialist does not provide the name, it is my suggestion to beware/take it as a red flag.  Why ? For the same reasons mentioned above, as you why they usually tell you.

Take notice whether Orbitz and Priceline provide the Tour operator names ? If they offer you a package and it is less than what you can buy from an agent or Tour Operator, maybe it's because it is not a name brand (?). Personally, I would not know ! No more than would I know, if an agent does not provide the name of the Tour Operator to you !


MY SUGGESTION: KNOW WHERE YOUR ALL-INCLUSIVE OR TOUR PACKAGE IS BOUGHT FROM !

You always know which cruise line or cruise ship your cruise is on, right ?

It not any different !


BE CAREFUL: When you are online looking at Tour Operators, be SURE you have their “official site”; otherwise, you’re going to end up on a Travel Agent website who sells Tour Operators and may not be receiving first hand info !


IMPORTANT: No matter where you see your info, once you see what you want, turn around and call your Travel Agent/Cruise Specialist to buy for you.
It’s not any different than buying a cruise >>> You want someone in between you and that Tour Operator (like you and that cruise line) …

* To back you up

* To make sure you know what you are buying

* To know all the rules

* No hidden fees

* TO BE THERE TO ULTIMATELY FIGHT ANY UNKNOWN BATTLES FOR YOU

KNOW ANYONE WHO BOUGHT A PACKAGE ON THEIR OWN ?  If you know anyone, who has bought an All-Inclusive or Tour Package on their own, and needs help, I also provide this service for a fee (434) 237-33832, press 7 and leave me message of the nature of your call.

* If they are getting what they think they are

* Need answers to general questions

* Need to know if they can get out of it

* Need help with this Tour Operator

* Need to know if package is legit

* Can’t get their money back

* If it is what it is

Sample Tour Operators to view for All-Inclusives:

Apple Vacations
http://www.book.applevacations.com/index.do?command=showHome&kwcmp=KNC-AppleTop+5+Terms&ATTR=msn&tsacr=MS165494931&refcd=MS2333929562e_apple_vacations

Travel Impressions (This company use to be a part of us)
http://www.travimp.com/

Fun Jet Vacations
http://www.funjet.com/?Referrer=J26&DCMP=PPC-B_Brand-Ex&s_kwcid=TC-11923-6967321582-be-1332175456

Sandals
http://www.sandals.com/?WT.mc_id=PPC&utm_source=bing&utm_medium=ppc&utm_campaign=US_Sandals_Brand+-+General&utm_term=sandals&utm_content=0

Rui
http://www.riu.com/en/ofertas/home.jsp?utm_source=yahoobing&utm_medium=PPC&utm_content=Brand&utm_campaign=Properties&src=tig_us_ppc_riu_yahoobing_brand_exact&mkwid=ebkaSI34c&pcrid=278355618&pmt=e&pkw=riu%20resorts

Villas of Distinction (this company is a part of us)
http://www.villasofdistinction.com/?utm_source=msn&utm_medium=cpc&utm_term=villas_of_distinctiondtp=villas%20of%20distinction
pcrid1077842012mtemkwideC3Ur8nyG


Sample Tour Operators for Tour Packages:

Globus
http://www.globusjourneys.com/

Collette
http://www.collettevacations.com/

Adventures by Disney
http://www.adventuresbydisney.com/

Tauck
http://www.tauck.com/

WANT MORE ? By Destination ?
Go to: www.HelpFindLandTours.com  




Happy Land Touring, from Vivian M. Webb, MCC