ASTA Association News
Volunteers needed for ASTA Legislative Action Week
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 23, 2008
ASTA is calling on all Premium and Core Members to participate in a nationwide grassroots program during the week of Aug. 18 to 22. ASTA Government Affairs is looking for volunteers willing to meet with their congressional representatives to communicate ASTA's priorities. To sign up, or if you have any questions, please contact Colin Tooze at ctooze@asta.org.
Help ASTA help you get connected
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 23, 2008
Are you LinkedIn or on Facebook? In efforts to help your contact network grow, ASTA needs to find out more about how you communicate and how we can help you best. Share with us what you do online to network with friends and clients. Take our short survey and help us give you more tools to increase your business and profits! Take the survey now!
ASTA International Travel Agency members: Register your associates for just $99
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 22, 2008
As an International Travel Agency Member, strengthen your global connection to travel agents by registering your employees as an International Travel Associate of ASTA. Associate members may participate in local events, attend THETRADESHOW and ASTA's International Destination Expo, receive a listing on ASTA's Web site and much more. Develop contacts and see your sales improve. Get more information here, or e-mail bmills@asta.org.
ASTA members save with DHL Express
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 22, 2008
As an ASTA member, you now can save on a full suite of international shipping options through DHL Express. Whether you're sending documents or dutiable goods, or importing shipments from another country, DHL has the right solution for your business -- and ASTA provides you with member discounts! For more information or to set up your account, call 1-800-MEMBERS (1-800-636-2377), from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET, Monday through Friday, or visit www.1800Members.com/ASTA.
Be at the TOP of the travel industry
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 21, 2008
Join ASTA's Tour Operator Program and receive the monthly promotion of your company's services. The TOP e-Newsletter is sent out each month to thousands of travel agents, highlighting members of this elite group. Your specials are listed on our Web site until the date they expire. Join TOP and have ASTA do the marketing for you. Read more information here, or e-mail Bethany Mills.
Attain today's must-save industry tools at THETRADESHOW
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 21, 2008
In the current market, you'll fall behind the curve if you're not equipped with the latest technology tools. Attend a variety of hands-on training courses at THETRADESHOW, where you'll learn advanced Excel tricks, how to get the most from Google and how to create more business through MySpace and blogs. Advance your industry knowledge and skills through more than 60 educational offerings for all travel agents only at THETRADESHOW. Register for $35 before Aug. 24!
Join Travel Channel host Samantha Brown at THETRADESHOW
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 18, 2008
Let Samantha Brown, popular host of the Passport series, show you the way to the world's most surprising and inspiring spots. Drawing from her experience and zest for travel beyond the ordinary, she'll reveal ways to inspire your client's next dream vacation. Enrich your business with advanced market knowledge and skills by choosing from more than 60 educational events for all specialties. THETRADESHOW offers the right tools to make your success a reality. Register before Aug. 24 for only $35!
Register now for the first ASTA Retail Travel Leadership Summit
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 18, 2008
Hear Joe Scarborough of "Morning Joe" (courtesy of Auto Europe/Destination Europe) as he talks about Election 2008, and listen to debates on hot industry issues such as The Financial Future of the Cruise Lines; the Economics of Going Green; and The Future of GDS Systems -- Who Will Pay. Join this high-powered event for top executives, held on Monday, Sept. 8, from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Orlando, Fla., in conjunction with THETRADESHOW. Included is a lunch courtesy of Auto Europe/Destination Europe. To register for the Retail Travel Leadership Summit and hear Joe Scarborough, as well as many other high level travel industry executives, please visit the Retail Travel Leadership Summit.
Travel agents: The growing niche of faith tourism at THETRADESHOW
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 17, 2008
Destinations such as Israel and Jordan are welcoming more visitors than ever before in 2008, while travel experiences such as faith-based cruising, attractions and missions are enjoying some of their best years ever. Join one of the world's top faith tourism authorities, Kevin J. Wright, at THETRADESHOW as he provides you with actionable product, sales and marketing strategies to build a thriving and profitable faith travel program. Register for THETRADESHOW today for only $35 at www.THETRADESHOW.org, and learn more about this expanding niche market!
Mantis Collection, Shamwari Game Reserve offer safari experience at 2009 International Destination Expo
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 17, 2008
Register for a chance to attend the International Destination Expo Safari School taking place March 5 to 8, 2009, in conjunction with the IDE, March 8 to 11 in Sun City, South Africa. Eight winners will train as rookie rangers, taking part in numerous tasks and activities from tracking the big five, to studying flora and fauna, to driving a Land Rover -- all under the watchful eye and guidance of Safari School ranger trainers.
Further your education at THETRADESHOW
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 16, 2008
Further your education at the one show that offers you more than 40 educational seminars -- including hands-on technology, CLIA seminars, Travel Institute training, product seminars, destination training and home-based topics with presenters Paul and Sarah Edwards. Register now for THETRADESHOW and you get all this plus a huge trade show floor!
Hospitality's strongest Internet recruiting tool costs ASTA members 45% less
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 16, 2008
ASTA is celebrating our partnership with Hcareers, the premier source for travel and hospitality jobs on the Internet. Hcareers, in partnership with AMSI, has developed leading-edge recruitment packages designed to lower your cost per hire and attract candidates from around the globe. You can also promote your travel specials by advertising on Hcareers. Contact your ASTA membership services representative or call an Hcareers representative directly (800-832-3738, ext. 213) for details.
Suppliers: Reserve now, increase your global contacts in South Africa
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 15, 2008
Secure a booth today for the 2009 International Destination Expo in Sun City, South Africa, and meet with pre-qualified agents from all over the world. The 2009 IDE will take place March 8 to 11 and is the only travel event dedicated to showcasing tourism products and services from South Africa. With an expected 5-to-1 agent-to-supplier ratio, this is a fantastic opportunity to make valuable connections with some of the best agents in the industry. Reserve at www.asta.org/exhibit or email kstake@asta.org today!
Exhibitors: Free benefit for suppliers at THETRADESHOW
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 15, 2008
Exhibiting at THETRADESHOW is more beneficial than ever! It is now possible to add a PDF brochure or flier to your online profile via THETRADESHOW Web site. Travel agents will be able to view and download your brochure. To take advantage of this great benefit, reserve your booth today. You can reserve your booth by visiting www.thetradeshow.org, e-mailing exhibit@thetradeshow.org or by calling 1-866-870-9333.
Keep your clients in touch while abroad or in the U.S.
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 14, 2008
Give your clients peace of mind while traveling abroad or throughout the U.S. with Cellhire's wireless voice and data rentals. Each of Cellhire's solutions is tailored to meet the needs of your clients while being convenient and affordable. Your clients can stay in touch via phone, e-mail or Internet, and take advantage of discounted rental rates. To learn how to sign up and earn commission, please call 1-877-ASTA-447 or e-mail mktg@cellhire.com.
Suppliers: Strike gold in South Africa!
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 14, 2008
Have you reserved your stand to exhibit at the only show dedicated to training outbound U.S. travel agents to become destination specialists in South Africa? Agents will travel from all over to attend the 2009 International Destination Expo. IDE is a unique opportunity to exhibit and connect with pre-qualified agents, and with an expected 5-to-1 agent-to-supplier ratio, this is a fantastic opportunity to reach some of the best agents in the industry! Reserve online or via e-mail to reserve today!
Expand your career, become an industry advocate
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 11, 2008
For more than 75 years, ASTA has been instrumental in the passing of travel legislation to support professionals like you. Now we've simplified the political process so that you can help ensure growth and prosperity for your business now and in the future. Find out how you can become an industry advocate and support the topics affecting your business, your clients and your colleagues. Read ASTA's Pain-Free Advocacy Guide.
Business services, promotions and new opportunities
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 11, 2008
Check out ASTA.org's WebExchange for new promotions and ways to expand your business. Offers from Panda Travel USA, Epicurean Ways, Oasis Camping Tours and Pioneer Personalized, plus 40 other companies, are available to ASTA members on this exclusive service. If you don't have time to check each week for new offers, let the offers come to you by signing up to receive WebExchange by e-mail. New offers will be sent directly to you.
ASTA SmartStat
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 11, 2008
Between 2000 and 2007, the percentage share of average air sales dropped 53.7%. Hotels and car rentals also saw similar decreases in percentage share during the same time period. In contrast, cruises and tours both saw strong increases in percentage share. Source: 2008 ASTA Agency Profile
Exhibitors: Reserve now to connect, boost exposure at THETRADESHOW
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 10, 2008
THETRADESHOW provides exhibitors with the perfect environment to gain exposure and walk away with new business contacts. In addition to unmatched networking and business opportunities for your product, service or destination during THETRADESHOW, you now have the chance to grab pre- and post-event exposure as well! A new, value-added benefit is available; add a brochure or flier PDF to your online profiles to be viewable/downloadable by travel agents via THETRADESHOW Web site. Reserve online, via e-mail or call 1-866-870-9333 to secure your booth today.
Expand service, boost revenue with Safe Traveler
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 10, 2008
ASTA members can offer clients travel publications and services previously reserved for VIPs with Safe Traveler. Agents can provide country Trip Briefs (SRP $7.50). These real-time publications cover current conditions plus extensive information written by destination specialists. The Travel Monitoring Service (SRP $25) monitors the entire trip. If anything is identified that might affect the trip, the client is notified and advised. ASTA members receive a 15% commission plus access to resources through a dedicated Web site.
Travel agents: Earn CLIA credits at THETRADESHOW
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 09, 2008
Join CLIA at THETRADESHOW where you'll expand your business with the tools and resources designed to help you succeed in today's competitive market. Take advantage of multiple CLIA sessions ranging from beginner- to advanced-level including: Building Client Loyalty; Customer Relations Management: Made Easy; Cruising -- The Ultimate Incentive; Cruise Vacations -- An Introduction and Group Sales Made Easy. Register now for only $35 plus get your first choice of complimentary tickets to Orlando's top attractions. To register, visit www.THETRADESHOW.org or call 1-866-870-9333.
Polls open for ASTA officer election today
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 09, 2008
This year ASTA members will elect five national directors to serve on the Board of Directors. Today, voting members will receive an e-mail from ASTA at this address: Ballot@intelliscaninc.net. This e-mail will contain the directions for online voting, as well as the unique control number necessary to access the ballot. All votes must be cast by 5 p.m. EDT on July 23. Election results will be announced on July 24. Visit ASTA.org for more information on the elections and to view the candidates' statements prior to accessing your ballot. If you are qualified to vote and do not receive your ballot control number, contact the Member Care Center at askasta@asta.org.
Virtual Seminar tomorrow
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 08, 2008
Are you too busy to leave the office? That doesn't mean you can't continue your education! ASTA Virtual Seminars bring first-rate instructional events directly to you. Check out the seminar coming right to your desktop tomorrow: Surviving & Thriving in the Economic Slow Down. Expert Kimberlee Hayward discusses strategies and tactics for building business relationships that close sales. Learn how to get prospects to seek you out, decrease business development and sales expenses by 40% or more, improve your demo and meeting presentation skills, and implement strategies and tactics that create a bond with customers and prospects.
Exhibitors: Media opportunities at THETRADESHOW
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 08, 2008
Connect with journalists at THETRADESHOW by purchasing a media mailbox for $175, which will allow you to distribute your materials to all media representatives at the show. You can also sponsor THETRADESHOW Press Room -- this is your opportunity to get in front of this important audience. Press room sponsorship includes a complimentary press conference and media mailbox and more, not to mention direct access to the media! Suppliers can also sponsor a dedicated THETRADESHOW issue of ASTA SmartBrief. Check out these and other marketing opportunities, or look on THETRADESHOW.org for more ideas. For more information contact pr@THETRADESHOW.org.
ASTA's Learning Communities -- share knowledge, get knowledge
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 07, 2008
ASTA's Learning Communities provide members an opportunity to collaborate with peers to explore best practices and new ideas, share knowledge and discover solutions to everyday challenges. This is your chance to build a network of peers and tap into their collective experiences. Explore ASTA's Learning Community.
ASTA International Travel Agency Members: Register your associates for just $99
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 07, 2008
As an International Travel Agency Member, strengthen your global connection to travel agents by registering your employees as an International Travel Associate of ASTA. Associate members may participate in local events, attend THETRADESHOW and ASTA's International Destination Expo, receive a listing on ASTA's Web site and much more. Develop contacts and see your sales improve. Get more information here, or e-mail Bethany Mills.
I have $5,000 and want travel assistance
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 03, 2008
Each week, ASTA receives requests from consumers for travel assistance. Those consumer requests and leads are posted on ASTA.org, where travel agent members can respond. Requests vary but include honeymoon travel, family reunions and group travel. Consumers can set a limit on the number of responses they receive. Check back often so you don't miss out on new business opportunities -- take advantage of this resource today!
Trip itineraries -- instantaneous itineraries you can count on
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 03, 2008
Where do you turn for more information when you have not been to the destination or only visited briefly? Don't spend painful hours searching the Internet and reading through guide books. The answer is TripItineraries.com, where one click will give you an itinerary you can trust to more than 300 destinations! ASTA members receive a 16% discount off the annual membership of $49.95; individual itineraries can also be purchased for only $5. Learn more or register.
Make democracy work in your favor
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 02, 2008
Numerous states have tried to pass legislation that would make travel agents pay more in taxes. As your industry advocate, ASTA has maintained a strong presence in the political process and successfully defeated these pieces of legislation. Discover how you can have a say on the issues that can help or harm your business. ASTA makes it easy for travel agents like you to become industry advocates. Learn more about many of the simple ways you can make the difference today.
Business services, promotions and new opportunities...
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 02, 2008
...all await you on ASTA.org's WebExchange. Offers from Panda Travel USA, Epicurean Ways, Oasis Camping Tours and Pioneer Personalized, plus 40 other companies, are available to ASTA members on this exclusive service. Don't worry if you don't have time to check each week for new offers, you can sign up to receive WebExchange by e-mail. New offers will be sent directly to you. Sign up for ASTA's WebExchange Service.
Help your clients uncover Jordan's rich history -- for free!
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 01, 2008
According to the World Travel and Tourism Council's data, Jordan is drawing more tourists each year. Become a Jordan travel specialist and sell this destination with the Jordan destination specialist course. Get your course for free today; select from two different formats: CD-ROM or PDF. After completing the course, your services as a Jordan specialist will be promoted on www.seejordan.org, the Web site of the Jordan Tourism Board North America. Read here for more information and to purchase the course.
Looking for growth in your career? Become an industry advocate
ASTA SmartBrief | Jul 01, 2008
For more than 75 years, ASTA has been instrumental in the passing of travel legislation to support professionals like you. Now we've simplified the political process so that you can help ensure growth and prosperity for your business now and in the future. Find out how you can become an industry advocate and support the topics affecting your business, your clients and your colleagues. Read ASTA's Pain-Free Advocacy Guide.
ASTA Members: Find peace of mind with a TOP member
ASTA SmartBrief | Jun 30, 2008
ASTA's Tour Operator Program is designed to highlight tour operators who are reliable and adhere to the high standards set by ASTA. TOP's elite tour operators give travel agents the power to earn big commissions and provide peace of mind for their clients. Take advantage of these exciting offers by checking out the TOP Member Specials here!
Joe Scarborough at Retail Travel Leadership Summit
ASTA SmartBrief | Jun 27, 2008
Joe Scarborough of Morning Joe will address delegates at the first Retail Travel Leadership Summit, held on Monday, Sept. 8 from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. in Orlando, Fla. Brought to you by Auto Europe/Destination Europe, you will be able to be one of the few to hear Joe Scarborough talk about his views on the upcoming elections. To register for the Retail Travel Leadership Summit and hear Joe Scarborough, as well as many other high level travel industry executives, please visit the Retail Travel Leadership Summit.
ASTA's Airline Reservation Fees chart
ASTA SmartBrief | Jun 27, 2008
ASTA's Industry Affairs department has created a chart outlining the fees charged by airlines for making an initial reservation over the phone, at an ATO/CTO, or modifying an agency-created reservation. In some cases, the fee may also apply if you ask a reservations sales agent to perform a specific action, such as requesting a seat assignment, changing an itinerary, etc. In most cases these fees are charged on a one-time basis only. The airline is required to communicate these fees to you at the time of booking or assistance.
Suppliers: Reserve your stand for the International Destination Expo 2009
ASTA SmartBrief | Jun 26, 2008
Agents will travel to South Africa from all over to learn about your products, services and destinations -- will you be there to meet them? IDE is a unique opportunity to secure a spot to meet with prequalified agents who want to meet you. Reserve your stand now to get a jump on international exposure! Visit www.asta.org/exhibit to secure your space or e-mail Kristen Stake today.
ASTA national director candidates posted
ASTA SmartBrief | Jun 26, 2008
Voting members will have the opportunity to cast their vote for five national directors in this year's election. Learn about the candidates on ASTA.org. Voters have until 5 p.m. EDT July 23 to submit their vote.
ASTA in the news
ASTA SmartBrief | Jun 26, 2008
Check out this article, Card mills look legit, but read the fine print, in the San Francisco Chronicle that explains what a card mill does and to avoid them. The author encourages those interested in becoming a professional travel agent to join ASTA instead to gain knowledge, credibility and resources on becoming a legitimate travel agent.
ASTA members boost savings with DHL
ASTA SmartBrief | Jun 25, 2008
As a valued member of the American Society of Travel Agents, you can take advantage of discounts up to 25% when you ship with DHL Express!
Save on the full suite of DHL's services, including:
- DHL Next Day, DHL 2nd Day and DHL Ground
- DHL SHIPREADY -- prepaid, flat-rate envelopes or boxes
- International services to more than 225 countries
Call 1-800-MEMBERS (1-800-636-2377), from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. EDT, Monday through Friday, or visit www.1800Members.com/ASTA.
Travel agents: New seminars to revitalize your brand at THETRADESHOW!
ASTA SmartBrief | Jun 24, 2008
Boost your sales higher than ever by attending THETRADESHOW, the top conference for all travel agents! Hosted from Sept. 7 to 9 in Orlando, Fla., there's no better place to advance your expertise and broaden your network. With more than 60 educational offerings from which to choose, you'll obtain the knowledge, skills and business contacts needed to excel in the market. New seminars are being added all the time -- see the latest educational updates here. Register for only $35 at www.THETRADESHOW.org or call 1-866-870-9333.
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