Everyone wants to be liked but biz expert Tim Sanders believes one’s likeability is key to business—as well as personal—success. And that’s particularly true for travel agents, he says.

Luxury travel is on the rise, and travel agents are seeing a growing share of the business, according to a report from the referral service Zicasso and firsthand accounts from agents.

The so-called ‘queen of reinvention,’ Wendi Blum transformed herself into a success coach, author and international speaker. She tells travel agents how to combine spiritual concepts with business savvy.

While many suppliers have taken steps to accommodate solo travelers, agents say the industry could do more––especially when it comes to often-costly single supplements.

Solo travel has been steadily growing for years now and suppliers are taking note. Many cruise lines have either waived or reduced single supplements, while tour operators—constrained by hotel contracts—are offering share programs.

After witnessing the demise of so many brick and mortar travel agencies, Keith Waldon came up with a different business model for his own Austin, Tex. agency. The Departure Lounge is an agency, a coffee house and a wine bar all in one.

The Israel Ministry of Tourism (IMOT) aims to broaden its appeal beyond faith-based visitors. It’s targeting a host of niche markets including the LGBT community, sport and adventure enthusiasts, and families.

Development of new hotels has continued at a steady pace in Israel during the past three to five years, says its new tourism commissioner. The new properties should help with a room shortage in major cities.

Five years after an earthquake devastated the island nation of Haiti, the country is looking to attract escorted group tours. Challenges remain, but G Adventures has jumped in with its first set of tours to the country.

When Hurricane Odile slammed into the Mexican resort of Los Cabos, travel agents did one of the things they do best. They reacted swiftly to make other arrangements and insure refunds for clients scheduled to visit the destination.