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Information on the Travel Industry |
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 Ticket packages for any Sporting, Theater or Concert event. For more information call 866-547-5362.
New Stars for The Color Purple! 9/30/2007 6:43:19 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment The producers of THE COLOR PURPLE are pleased to announce that legendary eight-time Grammy Award winner Chaka Khan, four-time Grammy Award winner and gospel singer BeBe Winans, and 2007 “American Idol” finalist LaKisha Jones will make their Broadway debuts in the smash hit musical starting Wednesday, January 9, 2008, at the Broadway Theatre (1681 Broadway). Chaka Khan will play Sofia opposite BeBe Winans’ Harpo. Chaka’s highly anticipated new album, Funk This was released yesterday, September 25, 2007, and BeBe’s new album, Cherch will be released October 30, 2007. LaKisha Jones will play the Church Soloist, who opens the show with the rousing gospel number “Mysterious Ways” at all evening performances, and Sofia at all matinee performances. Please note: Ms. Jones’ first performance will be December 19, 2007, and will play the Church Soloist at all performances through January 6, 2008. THE COLOR PURPLE will begin its third year on Broadway November 1, 2007.
To book The Color Purple call 866-547-5362 | Destination: New Orleans Hey Boo! (A term of endearment to my wonderful travel Partners)
I just returned from our National Sales meeting in New Orleans! I must say I agree with their saying:
Joie de vivre (zhwah duh viv-re) "The joy of living" certainly is the attitude of the New Orleans citizens that permeates their lifestyle and your client’s vacation!
I have heard from many of you, that you are hesitant to sell New Orleans as a destination or departure port. I just returned from three days in the city attending our National Sales Meeting. I learned many facts that I thought I would share with you.
FACT: PORT FACILITIES: The Carnival port facilities are better than ever! Approximately 2 months after Hurricane Katrina our new port facility was opened and is beautiful! The process of embarkation/ debarkation is as easy as can be and the area is comfortable with great facilities. There are more than 1000 covered parking spaces which are conveniently located.
FACT: CRIME: The Attorney General, Mayor Nagin and Lieutenant Governor Landrieu addressed our meeting and shared with us crime statistics for the city.
Serious crimes (homicide, etc) are being committed outside of tourist areas and its primarily gang members against gang members. None of these crimes have been against tourists. As with any city, you must use caution when you travel and are in unfamiliar areas.
FACT: THE DEVASTATION: As your guests are flying into New Orleans and boarding a cruise they really don’t see the devastation and in some ways it is unfortunate. It might be a good idea for other areas of American to we see the terrible things that this city has had to go endure. They still have the poverty that they had before the hurricane and I do think as Americans that we should see it and know it and try to help. But for your purposes of selling travel and your clients vacations…
The airport is up and running. Shops and restaurants are open. Actually all of the same establishments are still there! Indeed some areas have improved.
FACT: FUN: New Orleans is FUN! Jazz, wonderful antique shoppes, lovely bars, Bourbon Street, the square are waiting for you and your customers. This city has everything to offer and more. The hospitality is as gracious as always and importantly New Orleans wants your business!
FACT: THE FOOD: "New Orleans food is as delicious as the less criminal forms of sin." Mark Twain. A statement so true or as I would put it: “against the law good!” The service was and is fabulous and as always you can find unique dishes such as Etouffe, Jambalaya, Gumbo, beignets, andouille sausage and desserts – Oh the desserts!
“When the taste changes with every bite and the last bite is as good as the first, that's Cajun.”
Paul Prudhomme
FACT: THE FRENCH QUARTER IS CLEAN: The one hundred block area in New Orleans is one of the USA’s great treasures! Wonderful antique shops, some of the best restaurants in the world, beautiful hotels, the courtyards, the flowers, specialty boutiques, they are there for you! Saks has a beautiful new store! Harrah’s for gambling. And of course for the more wild customers - Bourbon Street- (that’s the same, too - smile).
FACT: LESS TOURISTS: This means, better hotel rates, easier access to some of the finest dining in the world. It is easy to get around, easy to walk the streets, easy to find great seating in the best Jazz clubs in the country. New Orleans is not empty by any means, but there aren't as many visitors as before. Actually, I found it to be fabulous! It allows the people of New Orleans to provide as they say “Lagniappe” which is a Cajun word for "a little something extra."
FACT: THE CARNIVAL FANTASY: offers 4 & 5 day cruises from New Orleans. What a great opportunity to extend the stay in New Orleans for 2-3 days to make a seven day vacation! I hope you will recommend and promote New Orleans for the true destination it is. Plus a chance for more revenue.
Did I mention the Food…?
Don't let the media keep you from selling this incredible destination! New Orleans deserves our support- it is up to us, the travel industry. Should you want any assistance promoting New Orleans as a destination, please let me know.
Allons! (Let’s go!)
And, Laisser les bons temps rouler “Let the good times roll!
| Northwest Airlines Becomes First Carrier in the World to Implement 100 Interline Electronic-Ticket Agreements 9/21/2007 11:18:08 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment (September 20, 2007) - Northwest Airlines, as part of its continuing effort to improve the customer travel experience, recently became the first airline in the world to implement its 100th interline electronic ticket (IET) agreement. Northwest to date has implemented e-ticket programs for 99.9 percent of all interline ticketing within the United States, and 99.2 percent of ticketing with its international partners.
This landmark agreement is part of a global movement by Northwest, its SkyTeam partners and other members of the International Air Transport Association (IATA) to eliminate paper tickets by June 2008.
IET enables a passenger to use a single e-ticket on any airline with an agreement.
“By becoming the first airline to implement 100 interline e-ticket agreements, Northwest Airlines has reached a pivotal point in improving our customers’ travel experience,” said Al Lenza, vice president distribution and e-commerce. “But being the first to reach 100 IETs does not mean we will relax.”
Northwest currently has e-ticketing available on 99.9 percent of all air travel within the United States and 99.2 percent of ticketing with its international partners.
In 2004, IATA’s airline members resolved to eliminate all paper tickets. Since then, the amount of e-ticketing has risen to 84% of all transactions processed by IATA’s billing and settlement system from the 16% recorded in June 2004. IATA currently processes about 400 million ticket transactions annually.
| St. Kitts Tourism Authority: Special Offers 9/16/2007 9:39:32 PM Link 0 comments | Add comment  St. Kitts is very pleased to inform you of special low fares on new non-stop flights! American Airlines is offering a special fare of $230 from JFK to St. Kitts and Delta Air Lines is offering a one-way special fare of $299 from Atlanta to St. Kitts.
American Airlines from New York
will be commencing a new flight from New York's popular JFK International Airport to St. Kitts that will operate twice weekly, on Wednesdays and Sundays, beginning on November 18, 2007. To celebrate the new service, American Airlines is offering a special introductory fare of $230 round trip from JFK to St. Kitts, for purchase by September 30, 2007 for travel between November 18, 2007 and June 30, 2008. This airfare is offered as a package, so hotel reservations must also be made at the time of flight purchase in order to qualify for this fare. American's Price: $230.00. To book call Tyus tours & travel at 866-547-5362.
Delta from Atlanta
Air Lines will be commencing a new non-stop flight from Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport to St. Kitts that will operate once a week on Saturdays, beginning on February 16, 2008. To celebrate the new service, the airline is offering a one-way special fare of $299 from Atlanta to St. Kitts (based on a round-trip purchase), for purchase by September 26, 2007. Travel completed by May 3, 2008. This is an airfare-only rate and does not have to be booked in conjunction with a hotel stay. Additional taxes, fees and restrictions apply. Delta's Price: $299.00. To Book call Tyus tours & travel at 866-547-5362.
| Carnival Cruise Line, VickieTomasino CTC Western regional vice President of Sales The summer has taken us by storm, literally! As summer comes to an end, and Hurricane Henriette sneaks up on us, we are reminded that hurricane season remains a concern when selling late summer travel. I want to remind you how diligently the Carnival team works to make sure that your clients get the safest and most enjoyable vacation possible. We have a very dedicated and talented staff that are watching storm paths and re-routing the Carnival fleet to ensure the complete safety of our guests. Furthermore, we are doing what we do best – providing a unique and special vacation environment! Our service and hospitality sets the standard. Be sure to articulate this to your clients and get them excited about cruising on Carnival!
| ALOHA TRAVEL PARTNERS! One week ago today I debarked from the PRIDE OF HAWAII after seven excellent days cruising around the islands. I was onboard hosting a Seminar at Sea. While enjoying my 100% Kona coffee this morning I was thinking, it can’t have already been a week ago! The memories are still fresh….. the trade winds, the rainbows, the stars that seem to reach the ground, the effortlessness of touring all of the islands via cruise ship – and what a ship! I hope you will take a few minutes and allow me to share some observations.
I was so very impressed with our crew – from the top down – or the bottom up; which ever is politically correct! Everyone I encountered was delightful and happy to be there. Our American crew is doing a grand job. Yes, the atmosphere onboard a U.S. Flag ship is going to be somewhat different, but it can certainly be a positive experience and it definitely was.
The ship was very “ship shape”. Several times during the cruise I took time to walk throughout – forward to aft and port to starboard, every deck. I always encountered crew going about their jobs and taking time to say hello while they took good care of their ship. My cabin steward was excellent; I could not find even the slightest fault –twice daily service; lots of fluffy towels and ice in the bucket – always. By the last evening there was even a towel “sculpture” on the bed – what fun!
The dining was wonderful and so extensive; it is hard to cover it all. Over and over again one heard the guests commenting on the incredible variety and the inviting atmosphere of all the restaurants. Of course, one of the most active locations is always The Buffet. And it was getting excellent reviews from everyone I spoke with (of course, I also did a fair amount of “ease dropping”) – many saying there was more variety than they have ever seen on a cruise ship. While having my breakfast in the Aloha Nui Café (the buffet) one of the waiters came around to ask if I would like water or juice. It was a nice touch – and with a big smile!! I especially love the Lanai which allows you to enjoy the buffet out on the open deck.
One individual commented several times about the Eggs Benedict – the fact that it was offered every day and according to her, absolutely perfectly prepared, which she had never found on any cruise ship.
The Specialty Restaurants are such a treat; it is hard to pick a favorite. We had a fabulous dinner one night in Cagney’s Steak House – invited by our wonderful Hotel Director, Scott Hamby. Papa’s Italian Kitchen is a big favorite with everyone (including me). I had several great meals in the Grand Pacific, one of our Main Dining Rooms. I love the atmosphere there, and it is a great spot for lunch with the floor to ceiling windows looking out to sea. With 10 dining options, you find yourself already planning your next cruise while half way through the one you’re on just so you can try them all.
At some point you have to stop eating and enjoy the incredible array of shore excursion offerings. There is definitely something for everyone. The exertion levels are clearly noted along with length of tour and other helpful tips including a list of the most popular ones based on guest feedback. And best of all, we offer plenty of time in port to enjoy them. Everyone I encountered was more than satisfied with their shore side experience.
The Entertainment was great and plentiful. One thing I especially enjoyed was the live Hawaiian music offered around the ship. In the evening in the Aloha Atrium and during the afternoon Pau Hana performed at the Waikiki Pool. And one of the best events is the Lu’au in Kauai. I have attended others so I do have a basis for comparison. This shore excursion, an NCLA exclusive, is held at an historic sugar plantation. There are wonderful craft demonstrations and Mai Tais flowing prior to the start of the main event, the ceremonial unearthing of the roast pig. The lavish buffet is followed by a beautiful show with superb Hawaiian entertainers--the costuming and lighting effects were wonderful. There is time to enjoy the grounds and also visit the main house which was built in the 1930’s, one of the most expensive ever built in Hawaii at that time. It is a wonderful step back into another era.
And, what a treat we had on the last evening – we sailed along the spectacular, breathtaking Na Pali Coastline (this occurs on every sailing). The ship turned, so that no matter which side you were on you did not miss the experience.
Then on our final morning, prior to our debarkation, the excellent onboard Group Services Coordinator, DeLinda Dontje (she is a treasure! taking excellent care of all of our meeting arrangements onboard) arranged a tour of the Garden Villas and Courtyard Villas area for our travel agents. Everyone was quite impressed – these are truly the best, top of the line accommodations you will find at sea. (You can take the virtual reality tour on www.ncl.com)
There is just so much variety – onboard: the spa, the sports deck, the pool side activities, the kid programs, wine tasting, magic shows, dancing and Karaoke, hula lessons, lei making, 12 bars and lounges, boutiques and golf, the shore excursion offerings and the dining options, and on and on…. you can easily take this cruise over and over and have a totally different experience each time both on and off the ship!
Well, I could go on for pages, but you need to get on with your day. I wish you could have been with us, but to summarize, the agents who came to participate in the Seminar at Sea stated that it exceeded their expectations. They feel they can sell this product with confidence and look forward to doing so with enthusiasm. I am very proud to be representing NCL AMERICA. Many, many people, both ashore and afloat have worked long and hard to get us to this point and it is a good place to be. And, the work will continue; a magnificent cruise ship is always a work in progress, hiring and training enthusiastic staff, while fine tuning all that we offer our guests. Your support is very much appreciated. We look forward to welcoming aboard many of you and sharing with you the spirit of Aloha!
MAHALO,
Ricky Tyus
Tyus tours & travel
866-547-5362
| JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa  AMONG THE ELITE
WELCOME TO OUR NEWLY-NAMED
FIVE DIAMOND AWARD WINNER
Luxurious tropical escape. World-renowned spa. And we're proud to announce: elite award winner!
The JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa has just received the AAA Five Diamond Hotel Award for 2008--North America's most coveted honor in the hospitality industry, and reserved only for those resorts that exemplify the highest levels of service, accommodations, amenities and overall experience.
The JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa is one of only two Marriott brand properties to receive the distinction for the upcoming year, and joins an exclusive group representing less than one percent of the more than 60,000 AAA-approved properties.
Additionally, one of our premier restaurants, upscale Italian eatery Gustinos, has been granted the AAA Four Diamond Award for its gourmet fare and impeccable service standards.
"We are extremely proud of our respective AAA Five Diamond and Four Diamond Awards," says General Manager Christopher Calabrese. "These prestigious accolades represent the dedication to service and excellence that has always been a valued part of the JW Marriott Cancun Resort & Spa experience."
We can't wait to welcome you to the Mexican Caribbean--visit www.jwmarriottcancun.com, or feel free to contact your Marriott® and Renaissance® Caribbean & Mexico account representative for your own award-winning experience.
Commitment to Excellence.
IT'S THE MARRIOTT WAY.SM
| Skyteam Strengthens Global Network With Addition of Three Associate Airlines
Air Europa, Copa Airlines and Kenya Airways Officially Join SkyTeam Associate Program
(September 7, 2007) – SkyTeam this week welcomed Air Europa, Copa Airlines and Kenya Airways as the first official SkyTeam Associate Airlines. As of September 1, passengers traveling with Air Europa, Copa Airlines and Kenya Airways receive the same benefits offered to passengers traveling with the 10 current SkyTeam member airlines, including frequent flyer programs and improved access to airport lounges.
"SkyTeam is excited to welcome Air Europa, Copa Airlines and Kenya Airways to our Associate Program and pleased to offer our passengers access to 47 additional destinations and nearly 500 additional daily flights," said Leo van Wijk, chairman of the SkyTeam Governing Board.
Earlier this year, Air Europa, Copa Airlines and Kenya Airways each signed an agreement outlining its commitment to meet a set of predetermined safety, security and quality standards to be recognized as an Associate Airline. As part of the Associate Program, the carriers also adopted a current member's loyalty program. Upon completion of all membership requirements, each Associate Airline candidate received a formal approval from the SkyTeam Governing Board to become an official Associate Airline.
The SkyTeam Associate Program was launched to serve carriers in strategic regions who are interested in becoming affiliated with SkyTeam and its alliance benefits.
In 2006, readers of Global Traveler Magazine voted SkyTeam "Best Airline Alliance" for the second consecutive year. Visit SkyTeam on the Web at www.skyteam.com.
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Tyus Tours & Travel Blog
Information on the Travel Industry
Ticket packages for any Sporting, Theater or Concert event. For more information call 866-547-5362.
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