Article link:
http://www.travelmarketreport.com/content/publiccontent.aspx?pageid=1365&articleid=8890
Adventure travel is a tremendous opportunity for travel agents, says Shannon Stowell, president of the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA).
Here’s why:
• The customers of ATTA members spend about $3,000 per person per trip, excluding airfare and gear. That’s roughly three times higher than independent adventure travel.
• 45% of adventure travelers plan on using a tour operator on their next trip, compared to just 31% of non-adventure travelers, according to ATTA’s 2013 market survey. That’s good news for agents who routinely draw on tour operator expertise.
• The average length of a soft adventure trip increased from eight days in 2009 to 10 days in 2012, according to ATTA’s market survey. That means greater profit potential for agents.
• At an average age of 36, adventure travelers are younger than non-adventure travelers. Those are prime clients for agents who stand to forge lasting relationships that mean repeat customers.
What’s driving today’s economic growth in tourism? Where does the future of tourism lie? And how are organizations in the travel and meetings/events industry finding renewed vitality, spunk and financial vigor? The answer lies in Specialty Markets. As every organization should develop and execute a business strategy on Specialty Markets, this blog is dedicated to assisting you and your company in such endeavors. So what are the Specialty Markets? That's what we'll discover together below...
Monday, September 30, 2013
Get Adventurous: Adventure Travel Is Booming (by Robin Amster/Travel Market Report)
Article link: http://www.travelmarketreport.com/content/publiccontent.aspx?pageid=1365&articleid=8890
An astounding annual growth rate for adventure travel shows that this type of travel is fast moving into the mainstream. It’s a development that presents travel agents with huge opportunities, according to Shannon Stowell, president of the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA).
According to the 2013 Adventure Tourism Market Survey, the average yearly increase in adventure travel was 65% from 2009 to 2012. The survey covered three key outbound regions: North America, South America and Europe.
The study also estimated the value of the global outbound adventure travel market at $263 billion – excluding airfare – up from $89 billion in 2009. Average spending by adventure travelers globally increased from $593 per trip in 2009 to $947 in 2012.
Transformative experiences
While the remarkable growth can be attributed partly to the overall recovery of travel from a low point in 2009, the growth of adventure travel also reflects consumer interest in “transformative and engaged activities,” Stowell said.
“Consumers are asking for more authentic, transformative experiences,” he said.
“The market is also maturing. Most people have been to Las Vegas, Disney or on a cruise; they’re ready for something else.”
New offerings
The travel industry has responded with a host of adventure offerings.
“A lot of tourism interests have added adventure to their offerings,” said Stowell. “That could be anything from adding a rock climbing wall on a cruise ship to being able to book a sea kayaking day trip at a hotel.
“Adventure travel is going mainstream,” said Stowell, who noted that the market is heavily driven by “soft” adventure.
New resource for agents
That development is among many compelling reasons agents should be looking at selling adventure travel, Stowell said.
The Adventure Travel Trade Association, which has focused its efforts on adventure tour operators, is interested in cultivating stronger ties with agents.
In July the association introduced a new travel advisor membership program in an effort to attract travel agents. Most of the group’s more than 900 members are tour operators, tourism boards, accommodations, guides and other service providers. And there are now 40 agent members of ATTA.
Stowell said the association is also considering adding courses specifically for agents to its Adventure EDU education program.
An inexact definition
What is adventure travel? “That’s something we’ve been asking since Day 1,” said Stowell. “The reality is, it’s still a gray definition.”
ATTA identifies three themes in adventure travel – physical activity, a connection with nature and cultural immersion.
“I don’t worry about the definition too much when it comes down to it,” he said. “Adventure is different for everyone.”
Someone who has never left the U.S. will find a walking tour in Scotland to be an adventure, while another person who has traveled to Nepal three times will have a different view of what adventure means, Stowell said.
ATTA distinguishes between two types of adventure travelers: those who travel on their own and those who go on guided programs.
The association deals primarily with guided adventure trips offered by its tour operator and other service provider members.
According to the 2013 Adventure Tourism Market Survey, the average yearly increase in adventure travel was 65% from 2009 to 2012. The survey covered three key outbound regions: North America, South America and Europe.
The study also estimated the value of the global outbound adventure travel market at $263 billion – excluding airfare – up from $89 billion in 2009. Average spending by adventure travelers globally increased from $593 per trip in 2009 to $947 in 2012.
Transformative experiences
While the remarkable growth can be attributed partly to the overall recovery of travel from a low point in 2009, the growth of adventure travel also reflects consumer interest in “transformative and engaged activities,” Stowell said.
“Consumers are asking for more authentic, transformative experiences,” he said.
“The market is also maturing. Most people have been to Las Vegas, Disney or on a cruise; they’re ready for something else.”
New offerings
The travel industry has responded with a host of adventure offerings.
“A lot of tourism interests have added adventure to their offerings,” said Stowell. “That could be anything from adding a rock climbing wall on a cruise ship to being able to book a sea kayaking day trip at a hotel.
“Adventure travel is going mainstream,” said Stowell, who noted that the market is heavily driven by “soft” adventure.
New resource for agents
That development is among many compelling reasons agents should be looking at selling adventure travel, Stowell said.
The Adventure Travel Trade Association, which has focused its efforts on adventure tour operators, is interested in cultivating stronger ties with agents.
In July the association introduced a new travel advisor membership program in an effort to attract travel agents. Most of the group’s more than 900 members are tour operators, tourism boards, accommodations, guides and other service providers. And there are now 40 agent members of ATTA.
Stowell said the association is also considering adding courses specifically for agents to its Adventure EDU education program.
An inexact definition
What is adventure travel? “That’s something we’ve been asking since Day 1,” said Stowell. “The reality is, it’s still a gray definition.”
ATTA identifies three themes in adventure travel – physical activity, a connection with nature and cultural immersion.
“I don’t worry about the definition too much when it comes down to it,” he said. “Adventure is different for everyone.”
Someone who has never left the U.S. will find a walking tour in Scotland to be an adventure, while another person who has traveled to Nepal three times will have a different view of what adventure means, Stowell said.
ATTA distinguishes between two types of adventure travelers: those who travel on their own and those who go on guided programs.
The association deals primarily with guided adventure trips offered by its tour operator and other service provider members.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Multigenerational Travel is Booming (by Nancy Schretter and published by NTA Courier)
If you're looking for one of the best articles on multigenerational travel, here it is:
Article link:
http://tinyurl.com/Family-Travel-Schretter-NTA
Article title:
Mutigenerational Travel is Booming
By:
Nancy Schretter
Published by:
NTA Courier
Article link:
http://tinyurl.com/Family-Travel-Schretter-NTA
Article title:
Mutigenerational Travel is Booming
By:
Nancy Schretter
Published by:
NTA Courier
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Grammy Museum is Awesome
I had an awesome visit to the Grammy Museum last week in downtown Los Angeles.
What a remarkable, interactive and fun museum! One of my highlights was being in a sound booth and listening to Lady Antebellum's song "I Need You Now" and how it would have sounded with musical equipment in the late 1800s, early 1900s, mid 1900s, late 1
900s, and then today in 2013.
I also got a chance to re-mix music, play drums to Ringo Starr, and see the actual costumes and music equipment of various music stars.
The Grammy Museum is perfect for families, students, church groups, and just simply anyone who loves music or looking for a great attraction to visit.
Official website: http://www.grammymuseum.org/
900s, and then today in 2013.
I also got a chance to re-mix music, play drums to Ringo Starr, and see the actual costumes and music equipment of various music stars.
The Grammy Museum is perfect for families, students, church groups, and just simply anyone who loves music or looking for a great attraction to visit.
Official website: http://www.grammymuseum.org/
Student Travel Statistics: Visiting Museums, Galleries and Historical Sites
The following story provided by SYTA e-newsletter provides some fascinating statistics into student travel:
Department
of Education Reports Field Trip Facts by the Numbers
A new report from the Department of Education includes these interesting facts:
A new report from the Department of Education includes these interesting facts:
In
2012, twenty-one percent of K-12 students visited an art gallery, a museum, or
a historical site “in the past month.” Not surprisingly, children from richer
families, who attend secular private schools, or who have parents with higher
educational attainment were significantly more likely to visit museums.
Nineteen
percent of K-12 students visited a zoo or aquarium, but the children of poorer
families and non-English speakers were actually more likely than other students
to visit these kinds of museums, which have lower barriers to participation.
By
comparison, however, thirty-nine percent of the students visited a public
library and fifty-two percent attended a sporting/athletic event in the past
month. (Technically, all of these numbers reflect the “percentage of students
in kindergarten through grade twelve whose parents reported [student]
participation in various activities.”)
The
latest estimate for the number of homeschoolers in the United States (as of the
2011-12 school year) is 3.4% of all students age 5-17 (K-12) or 1.77 million.
Click
here for more details. For some historical comparisons to
visitation rates in the past, check out this recent
blog post by IMLS statistician Deanna Swann.
Friday, September 20, 2013
Strategic Partnership Forged in Youth Travel
The World Youth Student and Educational (WYSE) Travel Confederation, the global industry body representing youth travel, and the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), a global organization dedicated to responsibly growing the adventure travel market, today announced a new partnership agreement concerning youth adventure travel.The WYSE Travel Confederation and the ATTA recognize the importance of cooperating to advance the contribution of youth adventure travel development and are planning to collaborate in the areas of advocacy, research, and education to achieve their shared objectives.Both youth and adventure travel sectors are among the fastest growing sectors of international tourism. This partnership will strengthen the collective ability of both organisations to understand and develop each sector according to best-practices, and promote the importance of this sector to key-stakeholders.
David Chapman, Director General of the WYSE Travel Confederation said “There are considerable synergies between the two organisations and we look forward to working together on research, education, and providing opportunities for our joint membership.”According to the ATTA Executive Director-Europe, Chris Doyle, “The WYSE-ATTA partnership matters because the organisations’ joint efforts can perpetuate young traveller interest to choosing responsible adventure travel as their first holiday choice. In addition to the healthy mind and body merits of such activity-based journeys, increased interest in immersive cultural and nature-based experiences among the next generation of travellers is good for tourism’s sustainable future.”
Both the ATTA and WYSE Travel Confederation recently announced that their annual conferences would be held in Ireland for 2014. WYSE Travel Confederation’s conference is in Dublin and the ATTA conference in Killarney is just one week later.
About WYSE Travel Confederation:
WYSE) Travel Confederation is the world’s largest network of youth and student travel operators. WYSE Travel Confederation is a not-for-profit association dedicated to supporting the global industry and connecting the organisations that serve millions of young people who travel to study, work and grow. The Confederation is committed to understanding the ever-changing characteristics, motivations, and needs of young travellers. The Confederation’s annual networking and trading event is the annual World Youth and Student Travel Conference, the youth, student and educational industry’s essential global youth and student travel event. Visit WYSE Travel Confederation: www.wysetc.org or on Twitter @WYSETC
About Adventure Travel Trade Association:
Established in 1990, the Seattle-based Adventure Travel Trade Association, serving more than 900 members worldwide, serves as the hub for tour operators, tourism boards, association partners, media, specialty agents, adventure accommodations and industry partners with a vested interest in the sustainable development of adventure tourism. Host of the annual Adventure Travel World Summit trade conferences, the ATTA is dedicated to unifying, networking, professionalizing, promoting and responsibly growing the adventure travel market. The ATTA also publishes www.AdventureTravelNews.com, the adventure tourism community’s news source and makes possible www.Adventure.Travel, the traveler’s guide for trusted tour operators from around the globe specializing in physical, cultural and nature-based adventures.
Wednesday, September 18, 2013
Student Performing Groups Prove Profitable Niche (Travel Market Reports/Judy Jacobs)
Link: http://www.travelmarketreport.com/content/publiccontent.aspx?pageid=1365&articleid=8842
Author: Judy Jacobs
Here's the opening excerpt to the article:
Selling travel to student performing groups – bands, orchestras and drill teams – has proved to be a profitable—and Internet-proof—niche for a Texas agency owner.
“It’s a good niche market for an agency to get into because it’s going to always be there,” said Charles Moore, president and CEO of All World Travel in Allen, Tex.
“The Internet can’t take it away from you. There’s no way to get 500 reservations for 500 people on the Internet.”
Moore began providing travel for these groups 10 years ago when he hired Craig Logan, the retiring Allen High School Band director, and his wife, Pat, who was in charge of the school’s drill team.
The niche now accounts for 25% of his agency’s total business. The Logans organize 20 to 25 trips a year, most of them for high schools and some for junior colleges and middle and elementary schools. They deal only with schools in Texas.
Read rest of article at:
http://www.travelmarketreport.com/content/publiccontent.aspx?pageid=1365&articleid=8842
Author: Judy Jacobs
Here's the opening excerpt to the article:
Selling travel to student performing groups – bands, orchestras and drill teams – has proved to be a profitable—and Internet-proof—niche for a Texas agency owner.
“It’s a good niche market for an agency to get into because it’s going to always be there,” said Charles Moore, president and CEO of All World Travel in Allen, Tex.
“The Internet can’t take it away from you. There’s no way to get 500 reservations for 500 people on the Internet.”
Moore began providing travel for these groups 10 years ago when he hired Craig Logan, the retiring Allen High School Band director, and his wife, Pat, who was in charge of the school’s drill team.
The niche now accounts for 25% of his agency’s total business. The Logans organize 20 to 25 trips a year, most of them for high schools and some for junior colleges and middle and elementary schools. They deal only with schools in Texas.
Read rest of article at:
http://www.travelmarketreport.com/content/publiccontent.aspx?pageid=1365&articleid=8842
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Largest Global Youth Travel Study Published (Travel Mole)
Article link to Travel Mole: http://www.travelmole.com/news_feature.php?c=setreg®ion=4&m_id=Y!Y!nbT_s~_r&w_id=9280&news_id=2008117
The World Youth Student and Education Travel Confederation (WYSE Travel Confederation) has completed its New Horizon's III report which looks at why, how and where young people travel, as well as the growing requirements of the industry.
The research, which is the latest edition in a benchmark study first conducted in 2002 and later in 2007, is the largest and most comprehensive of its kind undertaken for the youth travel sector with over 34,000 young travellers from 137 countries taking part in the survey.
The report reveals the dramatically changing nature of the youth travel industry, which is becoming increasingly complex with a greater diversity of demographics and age categories now seeing themselves as youth travellers and consuming the products and services traditionally associated with the sector.
The report also sheds light on how motivations behind youth travel are evolving and shows a significant rise in the trend of cultural tourism.
Young travellers are putting more emphasis on gaining cultural, educational and work experience, as well as improving their education and work prospects rather than simply travelling to have a holiday.
David Chapman, Secretary General of WYSE Travel Confederation said: "The report reveals a wealth of invaluable information on how the youth travel industry is changing and what demands young travellers are now seeking from their trips abroad."
The report will be unveiled at The World Youth Student Travel Conference in Sydney on September 17.
To register for further information about the report or order a copy, contact rosanagh@ellidore-pr.com
10 Insights Revealed by New Horizons III
1. Student spending has increased by 40% since 2007 despite the global economic climate, with young travellers demanding ever more varied services.
2. More young people than ever before are travelling to gain work and cultural experiences, while those travelling purely for holidays has significantly fallen from over 75% in 2007 to just 47%.
3. The age demographic of people classing themselves as youth travellers has broadened, indicating that youth travel is a state of mind rather than an age bracket.
4. Young travellers are spending longer than before abroad, with the number of trips over 60 days having increased over the last five years ,
5. Youth travel is not all about budget accommodation and travel, with a significant rise in travellers identifying themselves as more up-scale 'flashpackers' .
6. Hostels have overtaken hotels as the most popular form of accommodation, reflecting how they are adapting to meet the demands of modern youth travellers and increasing the variety of services they offer.
7. The way young travellers communicate while abroad has changed greatly, with social media now the most popular way for young people to stay in touch with friends and family.
8. The places that young people are traveling to are changing. Youth travellers are spending less time in major gateway cities and are exploring more remote destinations than previously.
9. The way young people are travelling has changed with air travel experiencing the biggest growth from 16% to 26% of all trips.
10. Those surveyed identified crime as the main barrier to travel has sharply increased from14% in 2007 to 24%.
Spealty Market Educational Seminars at Travel Exchange Just Announced: Faith-based Travel, Young Professionals, Food/Culinary Travel, China Travel Market, Women in Travel, Hispanics in Travel, Agritourism and More
For more info visit:
http://businessbuilder.ntaonline.com/convention/Education/NTASessionDescriptions.aspx
Tuesday, Feb. 18
Championing your Sustainability, at the Presentation Stage on the NTA Floor
9–10 a.m.
Join Jeremy with NTA’s strategic partner, Sustainable Travel International, as he helps you develop effective marketing and communications so you can champion the work you do with sustainability. It will help you achieve ROI for your sustainable efforts, as well as bring on new customers.
NTA’s newest strategic partner, World Food Travel Association, has a wealth of information to share on the booming business of food, drink and culinary travel. WFTA Erik will share relevant trending news on the farm to table movement, as well as look at the tried-and-true that continues to appeal to travelers worldwide.
Speaker: Haybina Hao, NTA
NTA China market expert Haybina Hao will share how to get started and work with the influx of Chinese visitors to the United States. Everyone talks about this market and wants to attract the Chinese traveler, and Haybina can help you understand the culture and the needs of these travelers so you can effectively attract and serve them.
Thinking about expanding a current tour program or starting a new program into Canada? This is the session for you. In this seminar, the Canadian Task Force will bring you information about new product and destination offerings. But this is no sales pitch –this session will show you how you can work within the different provinces and territories to build programs around many of the emerging markets!
9–10 a.m.
Did you know that 61 percent of the representatives of NTA member companies and organizations are female? Also, when we look at the business titles, we see Director, Manager, President and CEO across all our member categories. But, when you look at the CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, only 3 percent are women. Join NTA for a session celebrating the power of women in travel and hear how key influencers made it to the top.
Uncover time-saving secrets to integrate your social and e-marketing practices. We’ll capitalize on the power of Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn, YouTube, micro-video sites, Google+, blogging and e-mail in this intermediate session.
* Why and what to monitor and measure
* How to repurpose your unique creative content
* Everyone receives a customized tourism industry social checklist, and you’ll discover savvy strategy to take your social influence to the next level.
Delve into savvy practices to grow your fans and followers, influence new relationships and use new tools to drive your business to the next level.
* Use engagement tactics to get your audience talking
* Add unique content to offer enhanced value
* Maximize media integration
New this year! Here’s your chance to find out firsthand what the young professionals are thinking and where they stand on any number of topics. It’s your turn to ask the questions. Want to know: What do millennials want/expect when they travel? What are young professionals looking for in an employer? How do you attract young professionals to your tours/company? This is your opportunity to get the answers you’re seeking straight from the young professionals traveling and working in the industry. (See the companion session at 3:30 p.m., Ask the Veterans.)
Hispanic travel professionals are invited to attend the NTA-ASTA Hispanics in Travel Caucus to join the discussion about this important and dynamic market. Through its Hispanic Business Development Task Force, NTA and ASTA established the Hispanics in Travel Caucus in recognition of the importance of the U.S. Hispanic market. Following the keynote, attendees will participate in a dynamic discussion on the needs, aspirations and business development opportunities for Hispanic travel professionals. It is important to have your voice at the table for this thought-provoking event.
Speaker: Kevin Wright, NTA
Did you know special events comprise one of the largest sectors of the faith-based travel marketplace? Each year countless faith-based celebrations, festivals and anniversaries take place in North America and around the globe drawing thousands of individuals and groups. Such events range from the Catholic church’s “Year of Faith” pilgrimage proclamation and the Reformation 500th Anniversary to Quebec’s 350th Anniversary of Notre Dame de Quebec to Major League Baseball’s “Faith Days” and Wet n’ Wild’s (waterpark) Glory of Waves Christian-music festival.
9:15–10:15 a.m.
From the farm to table culinary craze to travelers’ demand for hands-on experiences, agri-tourism is growing in popularity. Currently, 20 percent of NTA tour operators offer agri-tourism experiences and NTA research shows nearly 54 percent plan to offer this type of travel in the future. If you are looking to expand your business in this market join our panel of industry leaders and agri-tourism experts.
http://businessbuilder.ntaonline.com/convention/Education/NTASessionDescriptions.aspx
Tuesday, Feb. 18
Championing your Sustainability, at the Presentation Stage on the NTA Floor
9–10 a.m.
Join Jeremy with NTA’s strategic partner, Sustainable Travel International, as he helps you develop effective marketing and communications so you can champion the work you do with sustainability. It will help you achieve ROI for your sustainable efforts, as well as bring on new customers.
Discovering the World of Food Travel
10:30–11:30 a.m.NTA’s newest strategic partner, World Food Travel Association, has a wealth of information to share on the booming business of food, drink and culinary travel. WFTA Erik will share relevant trending news on the farm to table movement, as well as look at the tried-and-true that continues to appeal to travelers worldwide.
China Market,
at the Presentation Stage on the NTA Floor
10:45–11:45 a.m.Speaker: Haybina Hao, NTA
NTA China market expert Haybina Hao will share how to get started and work with the influx of Chinese visitors to the United States. Everyone talks about this market and wants to attract the Chinese traveler, and Haybina can help you understand the culture and the needs of these travelers so you can effectively attract and serve them.
Product Development: Canada Style, at the Presentation
Stage on the NTA Floor
2–3 p.m.Thinking about expanding a current tour program or starting a new program into Canada? This is the session for you. In this seminar, the Canadian Task Force will bring you information about new product and destination offerings. But this is no sales pitch –this session will show you how you can work within the different provinces and territories to build programs around many of the emerging markets!
Wednesday, Feb 19
Women in Travel — Women in Power 9–10 a.m.
Did you know that 61 percent of the representatives of NTA member companies and organizations are female? Also, when we look at the business titles, we see Director, Manager, President and CEO across all our member categories. But, when you look at the CEOs of Fortune 500 companies, only 3 percent are women. Join NTA for a session celebrating the power of women in travel and hear how key influencers made it to the top.
Social Marketing Integration & Influence —
Time-saving Secrets (Intermediate Session)
9–10 a.m.Uncover time-saving secrets to integrate your social and e-marketing practices. We’ll capitalize on the power of Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, LinkedIn, YouTube, micro-video sites, Google+, blogging and e-mail in this intermediate session.
You’ll walk away with the how-tos and the whys.
* How to hone in on your key words and use them across
multiple platforms * Why and what to monitor and measure
* How to repurpose your unique creative content
* Everyone receives a customized tourism industry social checklist, and you’ll discover savvy strategy to take your social influence to the next level.
Advanced Social Media Marketing — Tactics & Tools for
your Business
10:30–11:30 a.m.Delve into savvy practices to grow your fans and followers, influence new relationships and use new tools to drive your business to the next level.
In this advanced, interactive session you’ll show
examples of how you can create and implement strategies to engage your clients
across existing platforms. You’ll explore new emerging platforms while studying
the time and resources needed to keep ahead of the curve. Don’t miss these ways
to understand what’s relevant to measure and monitor NOW.
In this session you will learn how to:
* Grow your group and FIT business with proven and emerging
strategies * Use engagement tactics to get your audience talking
* Add unique content to offer enhanced value
* Maximize media integration
Ask the Young Professionals
2–3 p.m.New this year! Here’s your chance to find out firsthand what the young professionals are thinking and where they stand on any number of topics. It’s your turn to ask the questions. Want to know: What do millennials want/expect when they travel? What are young professionals looking for in an employer? How do you attract young professionals to your tours/company? This is your opportunity to get the answers you’re seeking straight from the young professionals traveling and working in the industry. (See the companion session at 3:30 p.m., Ask the Veterans.)
NTA-ASTA Hispanics in Travel Caucus
3:30–5 p.m.Hispanic travel professionals are invited to attend the NTA-ASTA Hispanics in Travel Caucus to join the discussion about this important and dynamic market. Through its Hispanic Business Development Task Force, NTA and ASTA established the Hispanics in Travel Caucus in recognition of the importance of the U.S. Hispanic market. Following the keynote, attendees will participate in a dynamic discussion on the needs, aspirations and business development opportunities for Hispanic travel professionals. It is important to have your voice at the table for this thought-provoking event.
Increasing Faith-based Travel Profits through Special
Events
3:30–4:30 p.m.Speaker: Kevin Wright, NTA
Did you know special events comprise one of the largest sectors of the faith-based travel marketplace? Each year countless faith-based celebrations, festivals and anniversaries take place in North America and around the globe drawing thousands of individuals and groups. Such events range from the Catholic church’s “Year of Faith” pilgrimage proclamation and the Reformation 500th Anniversary to Quebec’s 350th Anniversary of Notre Dame de Quebec to Major League Baseball’s “Faith Days” and Wet n’ Wild’s (waterpark) Glory of Waves Christian-music festival.
How will your organization benefit by attending this
educational seminar? If you’re a tour operator, you’ll discover not only the
many faith-based jubilee offerings that exist, but also how to integrate them
into your travel portfolio offerings for maximum success. If you’re a tourist
office or supplier, you’ll learn how to take advantage of such prominent
faith-based declarations in your own local destinations, as well as how to
re-create your own uniquely themed events or celebrations to draw faith-based groups
in large droves.
Thursday, Jan. 24
Agritourism Market Product Development9:15–10:15 a.m.
From the farm to table culinary craze to travelers’ demand for hands-on experiences, agri-tourism is growing in popularity. Currently, 20 percent of NTA tour operators offer agri-tourism experiences and NTA research shows nearly 54 percent plan to offer this type of travel in the future. If you are looking to expand your business in this market join our panel of industry leaders and agri-tourism experts.
Travel Industry Leads Job Growth (Travel Market Report)
Article link:
http://www.travelmarketreport.com/content/publiccontent.aspx?PageID=2122&pos=1&cpos=1
The travel industry continues to lead the way in job growth, adding 14,000 jobs in August and creating 9% of all of the private sector jobs added last month, said David Heuther, senior vice president of research and economics for the U.S. Travel Association. Travel employment rose by 85,000 jobs so far this year, bucking the overall trend in the rest of the economy, he said. Within travel, food services and lodging experienced the most gains.
http://www.travelmarketreport.com/content/publiccontent.aspx?PageID=2122&pos=1&cpos=1
The travel industry continues to lead the way in job growth, adding 14,000 jobs in August and creating 9% of all of the private sector jobs added last month, said David Heuther, senior vice president of research and economics for the U.S. Travel Association. Travel employment rose by 85,000 jobs so far this year, bucking the overall trend in the rest of the economy, he said. Within travel, food services and lodging experienced the most gains.
Monday, September 9, 2013
Intrapreneur Job Opportunities Come to the Travel Industry
Intrapreneurs have been a part of the tech industry for the past decade or so. Intrapreneur job opportunities are now finally coming to the travel industry. EF Educational Tours is one of the first tour operators I've seen to implement such a position - bravo to EF Educational Tours for their innovation leadership! Below is the formal intrapreneur job opportunity and position profile (serving as an entrepreneur within a company) currently being advertised and available by EF Educational Tours.
Job posting link:
https://www.smartrecruiters.com/EFEducationFirstUSA/72982770-director-of-sales
Job posting link:
https://www.smartrecruiters.com/EFEducationFirstUSA/72982770-director-of-sales
Job DescriptionDirector of Sales – International Travel
EF Educational Tours
Cambridge, MA USA
Yes. You can be both an entrepreneur and part of an exciting global organization!
Who we are
Who you are
The opportunity
This is your chance to run your own business within a fast-paced company which sits at the crossroads of education and international travel. What resources you need, what strategy to take, how to spend your time and where you invest your budget are all decisions you will make on a daily basis. You can see the big picture and are always looking with a critical eye for opportunities to innovate. At the same time you believe that no task is beneath you and are not afraid to roll up your sleeves and get in there. As you drive sales growth in your region you understand that a close connection to your customers and providing outstanding service will be the key to your ever-growing brand presence. You must be confident in your ability to consistently deliver results but have the humility to learn from those around you. Whether it’s hiring new talent or helping ensure the success of existing superstars, you will motivate and inspire your team in any way necessary. Your successes will not just impact your region but they will drive the overall marketing and product development strategies across the entire business. Finally, you will be at the forefront of an organization which is shaping the global perspective of the next generation of leaders. In addition to all of this you will also receive:
EF Education First is the world leader in international education. Founded in 1965, EF’s mission is to break down barriers of language, culture, and geography. To date, EF has helped millions of people learn a language, discover the world or earn an academic degree. We have fifteen subsidiaries and non-profit organizations, schools and offices in over 50 countries and employ over 34,000 staff and teachers. In today’s increasingly complex and interdependent world, our mission is more relevant than ever. www.ef.com
EF Educational Tours has helped teachers and students discover the world through culturally immersive educational travel for nearly 50 years. For more information, visit www.eftours.com.
EF Educational Tours
Cambridge, MA USA
Yes. You can be both an entrepreneur and part of an exciting global organization!
Who we are
- We’re travelers, innovators, thinkers and doers
- Global - we have a presence in over 100 countries
- We’re open and collaborative - not a cubicle in sight
- Dedicated – we really do “work hard – play hard”
- We believe that international experiences are essential to a 21st century education
Who you are
- You are bold, unconventional and fearless - a true entrepreneurial spirit
- An influencer who can motivate a team as well as inspire them
- You are an achiever – maintaining the status quo is not your style – you want to make an impact
- A networker with the ability to build strong relationships throughout our worldwide organization
- You are a strategist – always looking to innovate and always able to execute
The opportunity
This is your chance to run your own business within a fast-paced company which sits at the crossroads of education and international travel. What resources you need, what strategy to take, how to spend your time and where you invest your budget are all decisions you will make on a daily basis. You can see the big picture and are always looking with a critical eye for opportunities to innovate. At the same time you believe that no task is beneath you and are not afraid to roll up your sleeves and get in there. As you drive sales growth in your region you understand that a close connection to your customers and providing outstanding service will be the key to your ever-growing brand presence. You must be confident in your ability to consistently deliver results but have the humility to learn from those around you. Whether it’s hiring new talent or helping ensure the success of existing superstars, you will motivate and inspire your team in any way necessary. Your successes will not just impact your region but they will drive the overall marketing and product development strategies across the entire business. Finally, you will be at the forefront of an organization which is shaping the global perspective of the next generation of leaders. In addition to all of this you will also receive:
- Competitive compensation and outstanding benefits
- A strong voice within the organization directly reporting to the President
- International travel to connect with your products, colleagues and customers
- The freedom to set your own direction and the support to make it successful
EF Education First is the world leader in international education. Founded in 1965, EF’s mission is to break down barriers of language, culture, and geography. To date, EF has helped millions of people learn a language, discover the world or earn an academic degree. We have fifteen subsidiaries and non-profit organizations, schools and offices in over 50 countries and employ over 34,000 staff and teachers. In today’s increasingly complex and interdependent world, our mission is more relevant than ever. www.ef.com
In your application, please upload your resume and cover in the same document.
EF Educational Tours has helped teachers and students discover the world through culturally immersive educational travel for nearly 50 years. For more information, visit www.eftours.com.
Friday, September 6, 2013
Surveys Reveals US Travel Industry Needs A Better Understanding of Wellness Travel: The Guide to Selling Wellness Travel Released
Los
Angeles, September 9, 2013 – The surging interest in healthy lifestyles, coupled
with the desire for “experiential” travel, is contributing to the growth of the
wellness tourism market. Consumers are using vacations to jump-start a health
regimen, detox from a digital word, and learn healthier behaviors. While wellness-focused
vacations are one of the hottest trends, US travel agents, suppliers and
destinations report they need more information in order to successfully sell
wellness travel.
According to a series of surveys aimed at travel sellers and travel suppliers conducted by Wellness Tourism Worldwide between 2012 and 2013, respondents identified the following needs:
With epidemic levels of stress contributed to chronic disease, it is no surprise consumers are partaking in vacations designed to benefit mind, body and spirit.
“Health opens the door to a whole new world – as does travel. Wellness travel presents an amazing opportunity for both the travel industry and the clients it serves. It’s both personally and professionally rewarding; everyone wants to be vibrant and well.” said Camille Hoheb, wellness travel industry expert, Founder of Wellness Tourism Worldwide and Editor of the Wellness Travel Journal.
About WTW’s New Initiative: Selling Wellness Travel provides knowledge, contacts and resources for travel agents and suppliers to promote wellness vacations and retreats. Selling Wellness Travel provides personalized support, travel agent promotion and customized training solutions.(www.sellingwellnesstravel.com)
About: Wellness Tourism Worldwide (WTW) provides market intelligence, education and promotion to destinations, travel sellers and traveler suppliers. WTW’s mission is to improve well-being and economic growth through travel. Our team includes experts in healthcare and tourism responsible for global branding, spa operations, hotel management, hospital administration and healthcare marketing. (www.wellnesstourismworldwide.com)
About: Wellness Travel Journal (WTJ) transports inspires, educates and motivates readers to invest in themselves through wellness experiences, vacations and retreats and book their next trip. (www.wellnesstraveljournal.com)
According to a series of surveys aimed at travel sellers and travel suppliers conducted by Wellness Tourism Worldwide between 2012 and 2013, respondents identified the following needs:
1) A better understanding of wellness
travel products and services
2) A better understanding of wellness
travel motivations
3) A better understanding wellness
consumer demographics
4) A better understanding of consumer
health issues
With epidemic levels of stress contributed to chronic disease, it is no surprise consumers are partaking in vacations designed to benefit mind, body and spirit.
“Health opens the door to a whole new world – as does travel. Wellness travel presents an amazing opportunity for both the travel industry and the clients it serves. It’s both personally and professionally rewarding; everyone wants to be vibrant and well.” said Camille Hoheb, wellness travel industry expert, Founder of Wellness Tourism Worldwide and Editor of the Wellness Travel Journal.
Ms. Hoheb added, “Over the last
couple of years I’ve
enjoyed meeting and connecting with hundreds of travel sellers who are excited
about wellness travel. Yet, they told me they don't know where to start with
selling wellness travel. That’s how the idea for a developing a how-to
guide was born. It was written with the input from hundreds of travel professionals
and consumers interested in wellness vacations. While the guide is written
specifically for travel agents, it is a useful resource for anyone interested
in selling wellness travel. I'm happy to share with what's taken me years to
learn. It’s been released less than two weeks and already, one
destination gifted copies to all of their guests at their health and wellness
travel sellers seminar.”
To purchase: (www.wellnesstourismworldwide.com)
About WTW’s New Initiative: Selling Wellness Travel provides knowledge, contacts and resources for travel agents and suppliers to promote wellness vacations and retreats. Selling Wellness Travel provides personalized support, travel agent promotion and customized training solutions.(www.sellingwellnesstravel.com)
About: Wellness Tourism Worldwide (WTW) provides market intelligence, education and promotion to destinations, travel sellers and traveler suppliers. WTW’s mission is to improve well-being and economic growth through travel. Our team includes experts in healthcare and tourism responsible for global branding, spa operations, hotel management, hospital administration and healthcare marketing. (www.wellnesstourismworldwide.com)
About: Wellness Travel Journal (WTJ) transports inspires, educates and motivates readers to invest in themselves through wellness experiences, vacations and retreats and book their next trip. (www.wellnesstraveljournal.com)
About U.S.
Vacationers: Health, Happiness & Productivity – The Essential Report for
Travel, Hospitality & Wellness Industries helps guide strategy for tourism
development & promotion for any destination seeking to attract affluent,
educated U.S. leisure travelers. Over 93% of respondents hold
passports, are vested in wellness and place a high value on vacations. To
purchase: (www.wellnesstourismworldwide.com)
Study finds significant growth in adventure travel market (by Michelle Baran/Travel Weekly)
Michelle Baran with Travel Weekly has written an outstanding piece in follow-up to the recently released Adventure Travel Market Study by the Adventure Travel Trade Association.
Article link: http://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Tour-Operators/Report-finds-significant-growth-in-adventure-travel-market/
Here is the opening excerpt:
Anyone who is not in the adventure travel market might want to consider jumping into it head-first. A recently released study shows that adventure travel has been growing 65% year over year since 2009. It is now a $263 billion industry, and it's still growing.
When it was released in August, the 2013 Adventure Tourism Market Study, a consumer-research report by George Washington University conducted in partnership with the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), indicated staggering growth in the adventure travel sector between 2009 and 2012 — a rate of expansion that surprised even the study's sponsor.
Read rest of article at:
http://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Tour-Operators/Report-finds-significant-growth-in-adventure-travel-market/
Article link: http://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Tour-Operators/Report-finds-significant-growth-in-adventure-travel-market/
Here is the opening excerpt:
Anyone who is not in the adventure travel market might want to consider jumping into it head-first. A recently released study shows that adventure travel has been growing 65% year over year since 2009. It is now a $263 billion industry, and it's still growing.
When it was released in August, the 2013 Adventure Tourism Market Study, a consumer-research report by George Washington University conducted in partnership with the Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA), indicated staggering growth in the adventure travel sector between 2009 and 2012 — a rate of expansion that surprised even the study's sponsor.
Read rest of article at:
http://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Tour-Operators/Report-finds-significant-growth-in-adventure-travel-market/
Wednesday, September 4, 2013
Chinese Tour Ops Ask: Are You Ready For Chinese Visitors? (by Harvey Chipkin/Travel Market Report)
Article link: http://www.travelmarketreport.com/articles/Chinese-Tour-Ops-Ask-Are-You-Ready-For-Chinese-Visitors
Chinese travelers are eager to come to the U.S. but lack of air service and readiness by both Chinese tour operators and American suppliers is proving an obstacle.
That was the message from Chinese tour operators speaking at the National Tour Association’s (NTA) China Market Forum in Hawaii last week.
“There were several common threads in what they said,” said NTA president Simon of the Chinese tour operators who attended the forum for the first time.
“One concerned limited air service outside the major gateways,” she said.
“They have good service to gateways but not to markets in the middle of the country like New Orleans and Chicago. The thing is their customers really want to go to these places.”
Click here to read rest of the article at Travel Market Report: http://www.travelmarketreport.com/articles/Chinese-Tour-Ops-Ask-Are-You-Ready-For-Chinese-Visitors
Chinese travelers are eager to come to the U.S. but lack of air service and readiness by both Chinese tour operators and American suppliers is proving an obstacle.
That was the message from Chinese tour operators speaking at the National Tour Association’s (NTA) China Market Forum in Hawaii last week.
“There were several common threads in what they said,” said NTA president Simon of the Chinese tour operators who attended the forum for the first time.
“One concerned limited air service outside the major gateways,” she said.
“They have good service to gateways but not to markets in the middle of the country like New Orleans and Chicago. The thing is their customers really want to go to these places.”
Click here to read rest of the article at Travel Market Report: http://www.travelmarketreport.com/articles/Chinese-Tour-Ops-Ask-Are-You-Ready-For-Chinese-Visitors
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)