CLIA and other cruise organizations announced a new policy requiring mandatory muster drills for embarking passengers prior to port departure. The new rule follows a flurry of safety reassurances from cruise lines to customers. Are such measures necessary, given the safety record?

Where should travel sellers focus their energies in 2012? Top agency players share these pointers: 1) Personalize client communications. 2) Take full advantage of consortia training and marketing programs. 3) Focus on preferred suppliers and high-yielding products.