ASTA Association News
ASTA 2009/10 World Wide Destination Guide
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 20, 2009
Be sure to keep an eye on the mail this week because ASTA's 2009/10 World Wide Destination Guide is on its way to your office! Contained in these pages is a wealth of information providing guides on countries across the globe, both tried-and-true favorites and up-and-coming destinations that are the next must-see places for your clients. Organized by global sector, each country guide offers information on everything from getting there and climate to what to eat, drink and buy to frequently asked questions, as well as a list of ASTA international members.
ASTA's Green Program
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 20, 2009
ASTA membership gives you so much more, more than it did two years ago. Now there are 50 new online benefits such as the ASTA Green Program. The ASTA Green Program can help you find new revenue while saving money on your bottom line. Learn how to cut operational costs by implementing internal green processes and broaden your target clientele by offering eco-friendly travel services. Click here to learn more about green travel.
Free webinar to expand your U.S. business
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 19, 2009
Looking to get more business from the United States? Did you know that U.S. travel agents are eager to find international travel sellers to do business with? Join Wayne Nelson, ASTA's senior manager of industry affairs, Wednesday, Dec. 2, at 9 a.m. EST for "Growing Your Business with U.S. Travel Agents," and learn how to develop successful business relationships with U.S. agents, including tips for finding and attracting U.S. agents, what U.S. agents are looking for in an international travel company, and some of the tools ASTA provides to reach the U.S. market. Register online today to reserve your spot.
Office Depot helps ASTA members save
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 19, 2009
With Office Depot and your ASTA membership, you can take advantage of an exclusive 10% discount on qualifying delivery orders of office supplies (excluding technology). Register today, and get instant savings on everything from paper to ink and office furniture to break-room supplies. To register, simply visit ASTA.org/AMSI or call (800) 274-2753 and start saving today. Other restrictions apply; see www.officedepot.com/asta for full terms and conditions.
ASTA's learning communities promote agency operations
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 18, 2009
Have you checked out the learning communities on ASTA.org lately? These discussion boards offer a place to exchange ideas and work with your peers. The first board is for Agency Operations/Legal issues or questions. Do you have a personnel issue or a legal question? Ask your peers and benefit from the experience of others. Do you have some expertise or special dealings with operational issues? Answer questions or post helpful tips for others to read. Working together will make everyone dedicated to the business of selling travel!
Tips for stress-free holiday trips
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 18, 2009
In less than two weeks, the holiday travel season will officially kick off for Americans, and with the traditional meals come the now traditional dire predictions of overbooked flights, long delays at check-in and lost luggage. So what's a hopeful holiday traveler to do? Check out TravelSense.org, ASTA's consumer Web site chock-full of helpful travel advice and tips to make sure your holiday spirit stays bright. Read more on ASTA.org.
New Safe Traveler program helps ASTA agents boost revenue
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 17, 2009
The Safe Traveler and ASTA now make it simple for you to provide your clients the advanced service and support they want during and even after their journey. Plus, you will profit every time you use the services. Agents can now provide clients with country Trip Briefs, which are real-time publications that cover current conditions plus extensive information written by destination specialists. ASTA members also have access to the Travel Monitoring Service, which monitors the entire trip. If anything is identified that might affect trip, the client is notified and advised. Members receive a 15% commission plus access to resources through a dedicated Web site. Visit www.astasafetraveler.com for more information.
Learn and earn! Seminars @ Sea
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 17, 2009
The National Association of Career Travel Agents offers all travel agents an amazing opportunity to sail on the best ships at special agent rates. In addition, unique educational seminars are provided onboard and led by industry experts. Click here for dates and details.
ASTA's job board
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 16, 2009
ASTA and the Travel Staffing Group (HotTravelJobs.com) power ASTA's job board on ASTA.org. The board offers ASTA members the chance to post job opportunities at a discounted rate and find the next generation of travel professionals. Employers can post jobs for 30 days on the site for the discounted ASTA member rate of $99. For $179, ASTA members can post a job opening for 30 days and also have access to the national resume database. Visit the job board now and start posting or looking for a new job!
Member benefit spotlight
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 16, 2009
Now there are 50 new online benefits such as RSS feeds that help you get current news and information from ASTA headquarters and fellow members right to your desktop. RSS, which stands for Really Simple Syndication, is an easy way to keep up with your favorite news and information. An RSS feed contains headlines, summaries and links to full articles and other content on www.ASTA.org. Currently, ASTA provides RSS feeds for press releases, member alerts, consumer leads and postings on WebExchange. An RSS reader will keep you updated, as long as the reader is running on your computer, with any updates that occur. Click here for more information about RSS feeds or to sign up for this free service.
Unlimited free consumer leads
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 13, 2009
You can build your business, broaden your client base and earn more money with Trip Assistance. Simply log on to ASTA.org, where you can view and respond to travel booking requests consumers have made on ASTA's consumer Web site, TravelSense.org. Any trip with any budget can be requested, making it simple for you to arrange. You can work with a request in your area or find something out of your normal range and start to build a larger client base.
ASTA's Facebook update
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 13, 2009
ASTA is always looking for ways for travel professionals to engage one another, and so we created three Facebook pages to keep you and your clients informed and involved in the travel industry. It's a great way to network, share ideas and connect with one another. Check out the TravelSense page for consumers, based on ASTA's consumer Web site, Travelsense.org. The most recent update is about marking the anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall along with some holiday travel tips. Everything from travel books, ideas and tips is being discussed here, so become a fan and let your friends know.
Twitter with ASTA
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 12, 2009
If you're more interested in the latest government updates, make sure you follow ASTA's Vice President of Government Affairs Colin Tooze at twitter.com/ASTAgovtaffairs. Tooze is asking about ways small-business owners can survive amid the looming threat of inflation. You might want to follow twitter.com/AmSocTrvlAgents for general ASTA and travel industry updates. This week you will see updates on how travel agents are embracing the Internet, Continental's switch to Star Alliance and news release writing strategies.
Learn to use ASTA.org
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 12, 2009
There are many resources and tools available to you on ASTA.org. Take a few minutes, and let's take a look at some and how you can use these in your business. The ASTA.org Web site overview is a tool that will teach you exactly what your membership is all about and how the Web site has every resource you need to be more dedicated to the business of selling travel.
Experience Istanbul with the International Destination Expo
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 11, 2009
With all of the rich history and culture to absorb, the International Destination Expo (IDE) in Istanbul, Turkey, April 19 to 22, 2010, will be a nonstop learning experience. Earn certifications in Turkish History and Culinary Traditions. Learn about the rich history of this ancient nation, as taught by Claudette Covey, an expert in Turkey travel, and find out how to create vacations that mix history, culture, affordable luxury and more -- all to boost your agency's profits. Hurry, rates increase Dec. 5 -- register NOW!
Tour-operator deals on Twitter
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 11, 2009
New to Twitter is ASTA's Tour Operator Program (TOP). Check out twitter.com/astatop to find out what ASTA TOP members are doing. You will find TOP members in the news and the packaged travel deals for ASTA members. This week you will learn about a travel agent incentive Collette Vacations is launching, the expansion of Globus and much more. There is no easier and faster way to stay in touch with ASTA.
Free webinar Thursday: ASTA's government and industry affairs
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 10, 2009
ASTA monitors and tracks legislative, regulatory, trade and public affairs issues affecting the travel agent industry. This keeps the industry and its players in a strong position to capitalize on political connections, resulting legislation and other opportunities that reinforce agents' economic and business development. This can only be accomplished through the actions of savvy government and industry affairs efforts. Join Paul Ruden, ASTA's senior vice president of Legal and Industry Affairs, and Colin Tooze, vice president of Government Affairs, and John Pittman, vice president of Industry Affairs and Market Research on Thursday, Nov. 12, at 2 p.m. EST, as they cover the range of activities that have been taking place in your association. Register here on ASTA.org.
Make NACTA's calendar your calendar
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 10, 2009
NACTA's new Web site features a comprehensive calendar where agents can register for webinars, regional meetings, seminars@sea and more. It is the best place to plan for your educational opportunities! Click here.
Suppliers: Expand visibility, put your product first at IDE
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 09, 2009
The International Destination Expo (IDE), April 19 to 22 in Istanbul, expands your company's visibility to outbound travel agents, putting your product or service at the top of their list. With an expected 5-to-1 agent-to-supplier ratio, this is the ideal environment for companies in Turkey and the surrounding region to make connections and boost profit margins. IDE combines open-floor exhibition, business appointments, meetings, educational seminars and networking events to facilitate effective business interactions between agents and suppliers. Act now to secure your stand and build relationships with top U.S. travel sellers. More information and reservation information is available at www.asta.org/exhibit or by e-mailing Kristen Stake at kstake@asta.org.
ASTA gives you more
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 09, 2009
More than it did two years ago, such as ready-made speeches and PowerPoint presentations. Did you know that as an ASTA member you have access to more than 12 speeches and PowerPoint presentations on topics such as travel scams, family travel, responsible tourism and many more? The most popular topic is the Service Club Speech, which highlights the benefits of using a travel agent. Make sure you check out ASTA.org's eLibrary and look in the media resources section for these speeches, presentations and talking points the next time you are asked to speak at an event as a professional travel agent.
ASTA travel tips on Weather.com
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 06, 2009
ASTA is working with the Weather Channel to spread travel tips to consumers through its Web site, Weather.com, and ASTA's consumer site, TravelSense.org. With articles on road trips and traveling with kids that link to TravelSense.org, consumers can now find an ASTA travel agent more easily. When they read the travel tips articles on Weather.com, they are led to TravelSense, where at the top right corner of each page is the "Find a Travel Agent" directory. There are now more consumers linked to you on TravelSense than ever before.
ASTA members save up to 30% on UPS shipping
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 06, 2009
Sign up today to take advantage of special savings on UPS shipping offered to you as a member of ASTA. You can now save up to 30% on an expanded portfolio of air and international express shipping services -- all with the peace of mind that comes from using the carrier that delivers more packages on time than anyone. For complete details or to sign up, simply click here.
ASTA member discount to attend WTM expires Nov. 6
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 05, 2009
Through ASTA's partnership with World Travel Market (WTM), ASTA members receive exclusive discounts on two international conferences. WTM Vision -- The Global Economic Forum: This is a crucial opportunity for industry executives to plan recovery out of recession and prepare for 2010. The Business Case for Responsible Tourism Conference: This conference pioneers new thought leadership with leading international experts demonstrating how to aggressively expand revenue streams, using a sound responsible tourism strategy. Register before Nov. 6 to receive the discount. Find more details here on ASTA member discounts for WTM.
ASTA's young professionals expand industry
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 05, 2009
Connect with Travel Agents under 40 on a more personal level by becoming a fan of The New Breed of Travel Agents -- ASTA's YPS fan page on Facebook. With 20 new fans in the last month, this group is active and excited about travel. Young agents are discussing National Cruise Vacation Month and how to best communicate with clients. To bounce ideas, post information and start connecting with those interested in the industry as well as your fellow young travel agents, click here or search The New Breed of Travel Agents to become a fan today.
A vital look at ASTA's government and industry affairs activities
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 04, 2009
ASTA monitors and tracks legislative, regulatory, trade and public-affairs issues affecting the travel agent industry. This keeps the industry and its players in a strong position to capitalize on political connections and resulting legislation and capitalize on other opportunities that reinforce agents' economic and business development. This can only be accomplished through the actions of savvy government and industry affairs efforts. Join Paul Ruden, ASTA's senior vice president of Legal and Industry Affairs, and Colin Tooze, vice president of Government Affairs, and John Pittman, vice president of Industry Affairs and Market Research, on Thursday, Nov. 12, at 2 p.m. EST as they cover the range of activities that have been taking place in your association. Register here on ASTA.org.
Keep in touch while abroad or in the U.S.
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 04, 2009
Give your clients peace of mind while traveling abroad or throughout the United States, 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 (877) ASTA-447 or e-mail mktg@cellhire.com.
Getting your voice heard on the hill
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 03, 2009
Your congressman works for you -- well, sort of. They're your representatives in Congress; you elect them and pay their salary, and in return they work on behalf of their districts and -- ideally -- for the common good. If your congressman doesn't know something is a problem, you cannot expect him to address it. Join Colin Tooze, ASTA's vice president of government affairs, for Grassroots 101: How to take ASTA's message directly to Congress, where he will provide a fresh look on how to meet with your congressman and get your voice heard.
Supplier webinars from NACTA
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 03, 2009
If you want to hear about the latest offerings from the top cruise lines and tour operators, then check out the extensive calendar of events on NACTA's Web site. Open to all agents, these webinars will give you a competitive edge. Click here.
Free shipping from ASTA
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 02, 2009
Check out the ASTA Store on ASTA.org for some great deals for your business. Are you ready to join the cutting edge of travel and advance your career? Find all of the highly specialized education and invaluable business resources to excel in today's market. The ASTA Store sells items such as accessories, books, CD-ROM publications, PDF publications and more. Shipping is free.
Suppliers: Open doors, increase U.S. business for 2010
ASTA SmartBrief | Nov 02, 2009
Did you know that one of the best ways to gain exposure and reach your targets is by exhibiting at a trade show? Where else can you reach an audience with both buying power and interest in your product? Exhibiting at the fifth annual International Destination Expo (IDE) in Istanbul, April 19 through 22, will allow you to build relationships with top U.S. travel sellers so you can capture more outbound business to Turkey and the surrounding region. More information and reservation information is available at www.asta.org/exhibit or via e-mail at kstake@asta.org.
Webinar: Bulletproofing your business
ASTA SmartBrief | Oct 30, 2009
Join Daniel R. Zim, Esq., ASTA's assistant general counsel, Wednesday, Nov. 4, at 2 p.m. EST to discuss the pitfalls that small-business owners can run into and the things you can do to reduce your agency's exposure to lawsuits. You will get an overview of the choices and legal dilemmas that travel agencies face on a daily basis and the way in which your agency can effectively manage them. You will also learn about incorporating a business, forming agreements, avoiding liability for a defaulting supplier, methods of selecting reliable vendors and suppliers, and responding to client complaints. We'll cover the steps needed to protect and safeguard your business, plus provide real-life examples of what has happened to other travel agencies and how the outcome could have been different. Register today here on ASTA.org.
Enrich any sale with customizable, print-ready itineraries
ASTA SmartBrief | Oct 30, 2009
Clients are always asking for your advice on where to vacation, when to go and what to see. Now save time and money with the best itineraries, which you can customize, print and send in a few minutes. TripItineraries has the world's top itineraries for your clients. Buy them individually for $5 each, or as an ASTA member, you can get an annual membership for $49.49. Try before you buy with a FREE sample itinerary.
Put your credit card to work for you
ASTA SmartBrief | Oct 29, 2009
From breakfast on the run to a night at the movies, use your American Society of Travel Agents Platinum Plus® MasterCard® credit card with WorldPoints® rewards. You'll earn points you can redeem for cash, travel, merchandise, even unique adventures. Rewards for the things you buy anyway. You also have the chance to show your support for American Society of Travel Agents every time you present your card.
Unparalleled education awaits travel agents at ASTA's IDE 2010
ASTA SmartBrief | Oct 29, 2009
Travel agents attending ASTA's fifth annual International Destination Expo (IDE) in Istanbul, April 19 to 22, 2010, will have numerous education sessions from which to choose, all focusing on the many aspects of tourism in Turkey and its neighboring countries, and providing much-needed knowledge and strategies agents can use to positively affect their bottom lines. Find out more on ASTA.org.
ASTA releases annual Supplier-Travel Agent Marketing Report
ASTA SmartBrief | Oct 28, 2009
ASTA announced that it has released its annual Supplier-Travel Agent Marketing Report. Among the findings was the fact that the majority of agencies (69.4%) do not provide incentives to front-line agents for booking with preferred suppliers, the expectation being that travel agents will do what is best for the client and use preferred vendors when appropriate. Those agencies that do provide incentives either give a percentage of the commission (57.7%) to the agent, a FAM trip (27.9%) or some combination of other bonus types. Read more on ASTA.org.
ASTA's IBC increases your international sales
ASTA SmartBrief | Oct 27, 2009
ASTA's International Buyers Club (IBC) is a free exclusive club for ASTA travel agent members who want to boost their international travel sales. The next IBC event is World Travel Market 2009 (WTM), the global event for the travel industry, held Nov. 9 through 12 in London. IBC members will receive VIP treatment, which includes networking reception on Tuesday, Nov. 10, all day pre-tour on Sunday, Nov. 8, membership in the Meridian Club (for buyers) and more. Membership in IBC is free for ASTA agent members. To join IBC or register for WTM, please contact Jennifer Rooney at (703) 739-6876.
ASTA's Twitter update
ASTA SmartBrief | Oct 26, 2009
Did you know that you can follow ASTA on Twitter? Be sure to follow twitter.com/AmSocTrvlAgents for general ASTA and travel industry updates. This week you will see updates on holiday travel fares, Twitter on Lufthansa and flight delays.
Making Headlines: Getting Your Agency's Name in Print
ASTA SmartBrief | Oct 26, 2009
Ever wonder why it is that some pieces of news make it onto the front page, while others are buried deep or don't run at all? What is the intangible quality that catches the media's attention and propels a story into the forefront? There is a method to what appears to be media madness. Join Kristina Rundquist, ASTA's vice president of communications, for Making Headlines: Getting Your Agency's Name in Print and learn how to take your agency's story and translate it into media attention.
New Safe Traveler/ASTA program lets agents expand service, boost revenue
ASTA SmartBrief | Oct 23, 2009
The Safe Traveler and ASTA now make it simple for you to provide your clients the advanced service and support they want during and even after their journey. Agents can now provide clients with country Trip Briefs, which are real-time publications that cover current conditions plus extensive information written by destination specialists. ASTA members also have access to the Travel Monitoring Service notifying the client if anything is identified that might affect the trip. Members receive a 15% commission plus access to resources through a dedicated Web site. Visit www.astasafetraveler.com for more information.
ASTA's TOP members new to Twitter
ASTA SmartBrief | Oct 23, 2009
New to Twitter is ASTA's Tour Operator Program (TOP). Check out twitter.com/astatop to find out what ASTA TOP members are doing. You will find TOP members in the news and the packaged travel deals for ASTA members. This week you will learn about a travel agent incentive Collette Vacations is launching, the expansion of Globus and much more. There is no easier and faster way to stay in touch with ASTA.
ASTA's government affairs VP on Twitter
ASTA SmartBrief | Oct 22, 2009
Did you know that you can follow ASTA government affairs on Twitter? ASTA's vice president of government affairs, Colin Tooze, can be found at twitter.com/ASTAgovtaffairs. Tooze is asking about health care: Can more of the benefits be front-loaded without losing deficit neutrality?
ASTA's Tour Operators Give You P.O.W.E.R.
ASTA SmartBrief | Oct 22, 2009
Learn more about ASTA's Tour Operator Program (TOP) and discover special TOP promotions for ASTA members. TOP members also adhere to a strong code of ethics in addition to ASTA's bylaws. Ensure that you receive your commissions by using a reputable tour operator. Join ASTA's Membership Director Dannette Hose for this webinar on Wednesday, Oct. 28, at 2 p.m. EST, and discover the many benefits of using a TOP member.
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