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CALGARY IN 48 HOURS

Tue, 21 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

What’s not to love about Calgary? From the cosmopolitan downtown and shopping districts to rivers, pathways, fine restaurants and a wealth of attractions, you can go non-stop for 24 hours without running out of things to do.

FESTIVAL CITY

Tue, 21 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Edmonton knows how to have fun! With its exploding arts scene, breathtaking river valley, diverse eats and other unexpected finds, the Festival City can keep you busy.

Same-Sex Destination Weddings Take Off as Growth Market

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

More and more states are legalizing marriage for gays and lesbians, making same-sex destination weddings a growth niche product for agents. The market holds potential for those who take the time to understand the nuances and challenges. Here are resources and tips for catering to the market.

Fam Opens Agents’ Eyes to Alberta’s Appeal in Winter

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Travel agents on a recent fam were surprised to find how much Alberta offers in winter, from dog sledding to snow tubing. The shopping, restaurants and hotels won raves as well. The agents said they plan to sell Alberta to a wide variety of clients.

Tourism Cares to Induct 3 Honorees into Hall of Fame

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Tourism Cares will induct three travel executives into the Tourism Hall of Fame later this month. The hall of fame recognizes industry leaders for their personal and professional contributions to the industry through philanthropic, volunteer and mentoring activities.

Viking Takes to the High Seas With Ocean-Going Brand

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Viking Cruises will expand from river cruises to ocean cruises in 2015 with the launch of its new brand, Viking Ocean Cruises. Also: Crystal offers discounts on select voyages; Amadeus by Luftner Cruises debuts its largest river ship and CMV sets itineraries for itineraries between Australia and Europe. PQ:

Cruise Lines Leave Europe, as Economy Worsens

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

North American cruise lines are bailing on Europe. Softening demand has prompted them to rethink their reliance on Europe as a source market for passengers. Four lines recently announced plans to pull back from Europe in 2014.

UAL Targets Small Businesses With Loyalty Plan

Mon, 20 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

United launched the MileagePlus Small Business Network, a loyalty program that enables businesses to earn and redeem miles. Businesses that participate can also earn miles by purchasing goods and services from vendor partners such as UPS and Dell.

Shoppers Expect Consistency in Online & Offline Pricing

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Consumers are looking to retailers to integrate the online and offline shopping experiences and be consistent in pricing, according to a new survey. Also: NACTA will feature Olympic diving medalist Greg Louganis at its conference; ACTE signs child protection code, and tips on safe air travel with pets.

So. Korea Courts Medical, Wellness Travelers

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

With affordable care and hospitals sporting resort-like amenities, South Korea is actively positioning itself as a medical and wellness tourism destination. Josef Woodman, publisher of Patients Beyond Borders, recently returned from the destination. Here’s his firsthand report.

Sabre Rolls Out Merchandising for Hotels, Airlines

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Sabre has launched Custom Offers, a merchandising capability for hotels and airlines. The new product allows hotels to target their offers and airlines to offer ancillary products via the Sabre GDS, giving Sabre agents the ability to sell products previously unavailable to them.

Agents Laud Breakaway’s New York State of Mind

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Agents on the Norwegian Breakaway’s inaugural voyage praised the ship’s Big Apple theme and its appeal for families. There were also kudos for its spacious size and lay-out. However, a lack of availability for specialty dining was cited as a shortcoming.

Biz Travel Costs Keep Climbing, as Demand Outpaces Supply

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Although demand for corporate travel is not growing as fast as once forecasted, travel costs continue to climb. A key reason is that airlines and hotels have learned how to keep capacity under control, said a business travel consultant. The situation is unlikely to change anytime soon.

Tool Lets Agents Use Familiar GDS Commands – on Any PNR

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

eGlobalfares launched GDS Translator, which translates commands from one GDS to another. Using the tool, an agent can enter a familiar GDS command and click “enter,” and the translator will enter the required equivalent command in the GDS in which the PNR was created.

Europe Sales Are Soaring, Tour Ops Report

Thu, 16 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

With pent-up demand, stabilizing airfares and flat prices, business to Europe is robust. Tour operators report increases of 15% to 30% in sales, as well as changes in the patterns of travel. The U.K. and Ireland are the top-performing destinations.

New Air Service, Hotels & Attractions Enliven Alberta’s Appeal

Mon, 13 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Alberta received a major boost with new air service from New York and Dallas. New hotels and resorts, including an upscale retreat property, are ramping up accommodation choices as well. All of this is complemented by new attractions and a great summer festival lineup.

Frontier Gives Agents a Workaround on New Bag Fees

Mon, 13 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Travel agents will be able to work around Frontier Airlines’ new carry-on bag fees when they take effect this summer. The fees apply only to passengers who buy Basic fares through traditional and online travel agencies. ASTA negotiated two workarounds, but declined to provide details.

6 Ways to Add a Touch of Serendipity to Your Clients’ Travels

Mon, 13 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Often the best and most memorable travel experiences are those that are unplanned, or serendipitous. Travel educator Steve Gillick says creative travel agents know how to help serendipity blossom for their clients and create exuberant customers. Here are his suggestions.

Former Walgreens Exec Brings Broad Experience to MPI

Mon, 13 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The new CEO of MPI plans to formulate a global strategy for the organization, but first he’ll step back and listen to others, Paul Van Deventer told Travel Market Report. Formerly with Walgreens and American Express, he will draw on a wide range of experience in his new role.

American to Distribute Ancillaries Thru Amadeus

Mon, 13 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

American signed a full-content agreement with Amadeus paving the way for the carrier and the GDS provider to integrate their technologies. The deal will make it possible for Amadeus agencies to sell products such as AA’s Main Cabin Extra. It also lets the carrier provide real-time personalized offers via Amadeus.

Amadeus, Travelport Upbeat on First-Quarter Performance

Mon, 13 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Amadeus and Travelport had positive news about their companies’ first-quarter performances. Amadeus reported healthy growth in market share and revenues. Travelport said it is experiencing “positive momentum,” especially with its tech products.

Cracking Challenging Asia Cruise Market Is No Slam-Dunk

Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

As cruise ports in Asia grow in stature, global cruise lines are taking on the not-so-easy task of selling to the Asian market. Travel agents are often key to the strategy, but there are many challenges on both the trade and consumer sides. Still, companies such as Carnival Corp. are investing heavily.

Want to Boost Sales? Take a Tip From Improv Theater

Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Bestselling author Daniel Pink urges agents to rethink traditional ways of doing business, especially sales. Borrowing techniques from improv theater, adopting the client’s lingo and focusing on ideas and not just products are among his outside-the-box tips for sales success.

Travel Impressions Drives Agent Sales Via Social Media

Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

Travel Impressions is claiming positive results for its innovative Ambassadors Program, which harnesses social media to showcase travel agents’ expertise and drive sales. Facebook posts by ambassador agents are reaching 8,000 fans monthly. Here’s an update.

Agents Assess the Suite Life on Avalon’s Newest River Ship

Thu, 09 May 2013 00:00:00 GMT

The Avalon Expression's spacious suites, glass walls and warm décor won rave reviews from agents on board the ship during a preview cruise. Many remarked on the growing appeal of river cruises for a wide range of clients, including those younger than 55.