Monday, December 19, 2011

Sylvia Berman-Guest Blogger-Cannes France-ILTM

From Dec.3-10th I was in Cannes, France for the International Luxury Travel Mart.  This was my first time attending, although we have always sent one of our travel advisors to this event, specifically to find new and exciting properties to introduce to our clients.

After many hours flying to Cannes, France, I had two choices, a bus to the hotel or a helicopter ride into Cannes. I opted for the six minute helicopter ride and that was a definite WOW. Flying over the water, seeing Cannes from the air was spectacular. When you land, both you and your luggage are wisked to your hotel. The Hotel Majestic Barriere is the perfect location if attending any function at the Convention Center, as it is almost across the street.
Since it was still early afternoon, I decided to take my own walking tour of the town and stopped in at the JW Marriott and the Carlton Hotel. Both well situated for any one coming to Cannes.
None of the stores were open, but the city was bustling with both locals and tourists out for a walk (with their dogs) or off to dinner. I decided that I really wanted French Onion Soup for dinner, but to no avail. Not at any of the hotel restaurants or on the menu of the many small restaurants I looked at. What a disappointent. After a great night's sleep, I took off again, this time to find postcards to write and mail. Again, no luck, but I will keep trying.

What a perfect way to start ILTM. Each location was new to me and wonderful information for our clients. Luxury resorts in St. Barth, Jamaica and even Montana.

My first meeting was at noon and I was looking forward to the beginning of a long informative week. Lunch was at the RADISSON Blu compliments of Dominique Debay hotels. 


Winter 2011 Newsletter

This issue of our newsletter focuses on how we as world travelers can give back to the people we rely on to make our travel experiences memorable.  There are quite a few stories from clients and our own advisors on how they share what they can with the people, especially children, they visit with. Some great photos too! Enjoy this issue, and check out the offers on the rest of our website!


http://www.posthastetravel.com/newsletter.pdf

Thursday, December 1, 2011

Guest Blogger- Barbars Stein in North Korea

Barbara Stein visited North Korea in August 2011...she also has been hosting segments of world cruises since September and will be traveling until December 30th, before returning to the office. 

www.eptours.com/northkorea.htm

Please copy and paste this link into your browser to see her North Korea Blog!

Sunday, September 11, 2011

9/11

I think all of us, after giving our moment of reflection on 9/11, have gone on, importantly, to living our lives as if that terror will not win...I respectfully thank all my friends for not making the whole day a day of sorrow...and blessings to those that lost someone...we can not live their horror

Tuesday, August 9, 2011

Hugh McCauley's Culinary Cruise on Oceania's Riviera

Join Hugh McCauley and friends aboard the Oceania Riviera for a culinary delight of a cruise vacation! More information about the cruise to follow soon.  Book early for addtional amenitites.
Call Lynva at 954-966-7690

Monday, August 1, 2011

About Ramadan

About Ramadan:

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Every day during this month, Muslims around the world spend the daylight hours in a complete fast.


During the blessed month of Ramadan, Muslims all over the world abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs during the daylight hours. As a time to purify the soul, refocus attention on God, and practice self-sacrifice, Ramadan is much more than just not eating and drinking.


Muslims are called upon to use this month to re-evaluate their lives in light of Islamic guidance. We are to make peace with those who have wronged us, strengthen ties with family and friends, do away with bad habits -- essentially to clean up our lives, our thoughts, and our feelings. The Arabic word for "fasting" (sawm) literally means "to refrain" - and it means not only refraining from food and drink, but from evil actions, thoughts, and words.


During Ramadan, every part of the body must be restrained. The tongue must be restrained from backbiting and gossip. The eyes must restrain themselves from looking at unlawful things. The hand must not touch or take anything that does not belong to it. The ears must refrain from listening to idle talk or obscene words. The feet must refrain from going to sinful places. In such a way, every part of the body observes the fast.
Therefore, fasting is not merely physical, but is rather the total commitment of the person's body and soul to the spirit of the fast. Ramadan is a time to practice self-restraint; a time to cleanse the body and soul from impurities and re-focus one's self on the worship of God.


Benefits from Ramadan


1. It strengthens one's ties with Allah and trains the soul to observe duties of devotion in accordance with the teachings of the Qur'an and Sunnah of the Prophet (pbuh).


2. It enforces patience and determination in the Muslim individual.


3. It promotes the principle of sincerity by keeping the Muslim away from arrogance and showing off, since it is an act between the individual and his Creator.


4. It promotes good character, particularly truthfulness and trust-worthiness.


5. It encourages the Muslim to do away with bad habits and change his/her circumstances for the better.


6. It enhances generosity, hospitality, and spending on charitable causes.


7. It reinforces feelings of unity and brotherhood among Muslims.


8. It instills orderliness and close observance of the value of time.


9. It serves as an opportunity for children to perform acts of obedience and to practice Islamic acts of worship.


10. It offers a chance to balance one's attention to both physical and spiritual needs.


Assalaamu'alaykum wa rahmatullah wa barakatuh -


May God's peace and blessings be upon you
Wishing you a very blessed and prosperous Happy Ramadan. May Allah (God) bring happiness, peace, reward, and joy to all of you and your families and to all of humanity. We hope that this sacred month is a source of blessing and happiness and that all good works are accepted.

Your global eTurboNews team
by Juergen Thomas Steinmetz, publisher

Monday, June 13, 2011

Guest Blogger-Meredith McCleary-Insight into Ethiopia

Ethiopia is best described as a vast land of contrast, beauty, and extremes. The images and scenes of the people, in many cases, are highly distorted. The country is not barren, dusty or a land with starving people.
Several years ago I toured the historical Northern route, with my group viewing the splendid, carved, rock-hewn churches, ceremonies ,the many obelisks and the fascinating stories of their origin. Also we learned of the passage and return to the homeland of Ethiopia. We visited UNESCO sites, castles, ancients churches and ruins with many tales of the building of a dynasty. It was my great pleasure to sail on Lake Tana and the Blue Nile. It is there I became aware of the developing tourist market for the southern portion of Ethiopia. The Rift Valley lakes and masses of bird and marine life, as well as wildlife in the National Parks bordering Kenya.
This is the portion of Africa often portrayed through elaborate photography of colorful people, customs, and practices in expedition and nature magazines.
I recently had the opportunity to return and visit the Omo Valley Region with its popular ethnic treasures, and the place where 50% of the ethnic groups reside. We started from Addis Ababa, and descended via comfortable 4X4 wheel vehicle with a skilled driver and professional English –speaking guide into the region. Along the way we passed through small towns and stopped to visit along the highway villages, meeting people, families and visiting the homes belonging to the Konso people, with their beautiful and most effective terracing agricultural practices and elaborate farms; the Mursi people with their barbarian lifestyle (it is as if time has stood still for hundreds of years). True preservation of the culture! We were then on to visit and shop at the Markets with the colorful Hammer people (body painting and ceremonies) and then to the Karo people (similar to the Hammer people with the body painting, but with adornments from brass, cattle hides and skins, beads or shells.) Many are semi-nomadic. The men and boys work the cattle and farms, the women maintain the homes, fields, and children. Everyone has a job or task to perform (from the time they can walk). This world of Ethiopia is in general a world where African traditions are genuine and demonstrated in the daily traditions of folk music, dress, rituals, and way of life. I have observed many of the traditional practices by African descendents from rural USA and the Americas; through West, East and sections of South and Southern Africa. Whether in Jamaica, Brazil, Aboriginal country of Australia, the Tiwi Islands, some things have survived the long journey from “the Motherland”. In additional to the tremendous cultural beauty, the landscape of the Rift Valley and Omo Valley region is a nature lover’s paradise, off the beaten path. The beautiful Lakes, from blood red to clear waters, hold a mystique and mystery that I must return to explore. The area boasts of some of the largest crocodiles in the world, and numerous Hippos (whom I heard but time did not permit me to witness this aspect on my journey, that is for the next visit).
Accommodations at the Wenney Eco-lodge were comfortable, clean and ecologically minded, (although hot water). I had the opportunity to stay in the bungalow occupied by the President of the Ethiopia – I liked it too! This lodge was hand built by the owner for the purpose of sustainable tourism – using local resources and people . Great stop on the shores of Lake Langano, reportedly bilharzias-free, allowing swimming. There are excellent opportunities for forest exploration, which I would like to do soon.

Our next stop was at Swaynes Hotel constructed in the Dorze , elephant style, currently the best in the region (HOT WATER). The most spectacular feature other than the design to me was the location; on a hill overlooking glorious views of Lake Abaya and Lake Chamo. Here we visited the Dorze village known for its elephant motif built homes, dancing children, beautiful hand woven cotton scarves and Aki (a local home brew) served with bread, fresh honey from the comb and chili sauce. Whew! It was all HOT! My tight schedule again did not afford my cruise on the Lake.

We left for the lower valley and even hotter climate to Evangadi Lodge where we had access to visit several of the local tribes (Hammer,Karos and Mursi) and markets of the area. Unfortunately we were not able to witness a bull-jumping ceremony (marriage proposal) – but the markets were quite a treat.
A bit of caution. Every picture you snap may costs you 2 – 5 Birr. Thankfully, our guide was able to negotiate most of this for us. The markets are an opportunity to not only sell wares, and the harvest, but a social event for the three tribes to meet and interact, court and look for new spouse. It is quite a show of traditional dress, adornments, and “profiling”. It is also becoming known (to the locals) that the tourist are now coming for pictures, so there are the stagers – which I could easily identify. However, it was fun for all.

En route to a visit to the villages, located much off the beaten path, I saw some of the most interesting termite mound formations – having traveled most of Africa this was amazing to me (elephants, giraffes – almost works of art!).

Village life was much like most of rural Africa. Huts from mud and or cow dung, or bamboo shoots ,sticks, banana trees and leaves all with thatched roofs. Near town, the use of tin roofs was spotted on some of the mud huts. Various tribes have elaborate symbols identifying the front.
On the highway – cattle is King. The definition of “traffic jam" is herds of cattle and goats as they travel to and from water at river beds. There was never a dull moment during the trip.
The most challenging part of the experience was the “pit or bush stops” between towns Even this was better than some of the bathroom stops. Just like on safari, only few bushes!. Ladies get plenty of knee bending exercise (smile). Be Prepared!

The trip was everything I had anticipated and most of what I wish to see! It is for the adventurer and explorer traveler. A photographer’s paradise and a cultural enthusiast’s dream. A pure delight for one who has done it all and seekers of a new experience and cultural enlightening!

Please see my website www.ebonyheritagetravel for itinerary and pictures.

Travel Consultant
Ebony Heritage Travel
Master Kenya Authorized Travel Specialist
South African Fundi Destination Specialist
Botswana Specialist
Southern Africa Spa Specialist
www.ebonyheritagetravel.com
Direct Line 954-484-5773

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

The Art of Traveling

The Art of Traveling - by Sylvia Berman, President, Post Haste Travel


When you pack your bags to explore the beauties of your own country
or to travel around the world, consider these keys to a happy journey:

Travel Lightly – You are not traveling for people to see how you look.

Travel Expectantly – Every place you visit is like a surprise package to be opened. Untie the strings with an expectation of high adventure.

Travel Hopefully – “To travel hopefully”, wrote Robert Louis Stevenson, “is better than to arrive”.

Travel Humbly – Visit people and places with reverence and respect for their traditions and way of life.

Travel Courteously – Consideration for your fellow travelers and your hosts will smooth the way through any difficult days.

Travel Gratefully – Show appreciation for the many things that are being done by others for your enjoyment and comfort.

Travel with an Open Mind – Leave your prejudices at home.

Travel with Curiosity – It is not how far you go, but how deeply you go that mines the gold of experience.

Travel with Imagination – As the old Spanish proverb puts it: “ He who would bring home the wealth of the Indies must carry the wealth of the Indies with him.”

Travel Fearlessly – Banish worry and timidity; the world and its people belong to you, just as you belong to the world.

Travel Relaxed – Make up your mind to have a good time. Let go and enjoy.

Travel Patiently – It takes time to understand others, especially when there are barriers of language and custom; keep flexible and adaptable to all situations.

Travel with the Spirit of a World Citizen – You’ll discover that people are basically the same the world over. Be an ambassador of good will to all people. Put your best foot forward.

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Tehnology Marketing University 2011

I am sitting in a class to learn how to be a better travel blogger. Andy Hayes and Trisha Miller are our instructors today...both avid bloggers. I should go home with lot's of homework and lessons on how to do this better. Here we go!
How many of you read blogs? How about my blog? Is this blog pertinent to you? Is it succesful for me? And what are the alternatives to blogging? How do we measure the succes of a blog? By the number of comments? By the number of phone calls or emails? Or by the ranking by Google?
I good thing is this blog is linked to our website, www.posthastetravel.com so I hope reading this will lead you to read our website content. I also post our quarterly newsletter on our website and link that to this blog, my Facebook pages, my Twitter accounts...do you go to that link and read the newsletter? Is a blog worth the time and effort?
I tend to post info on cruises, properties and specific trips that someone in our office had recently been on...including photos when possible. I hope this content is timely and accurate.
I have recently used guest bloggers. Colleagues that have been on a fabulous trip and have written a really comprehesive message that I couldn't possibly do. I think that for Post Haste Travel we should do that more often. You will get to know our advisors better by the vacations they take on their own or with groups. I will post cruises by our advisors that are Virtuoso Voyager Club Hosts to get their percpective...I will post the many experiences our Africa and Safari advisors and clients have...with pictures...and if you have any questions wbout any of this, it's important that you comment so I can know if I'm doing this right. So, I'm going back to listening to my instructors right now. Let me know what you think!

Tuesday, April 26, 2011

Guest blogger-Meredith McCleary-About Africa

West Africa and Beyond: A New Adventure

Africa is the second largest continent in the world. It consists of deserts, lush tropical rainforests, coastal and swampy regions, plenty of natural resources, and of course the routes of the Slave trade. All are intriguing and all in West Africa. Most of you who are Post Haste Travel or Ebony Heritage clients are most familiar with or have visited romantic and exotic places in South and Southern Africa, Grand Safaris in Kenya and Tanzania, trekking for gorillas and primates in Uganda, or viewing the Pyramids while swaying in the breeze along the Nile.
At Post Haste we offer the opportunity to those who are looking for a new experience or adventure to visit some of the roads less traveled; to see and visit with new people and faces; to witness and appreciate their unique culture and customs, talents, artistic creations; feel the rhythm and sway to the beat, dance to the music, or just March to a Different Drummer. Belief me it can be an exhilarating experience and a breath of fresh air. The sights, sounds, and smells of the open-air markets exude a level of excitement for the ardent world’s traveler. The colorful costumes and attire leads the way to designer shoes and fashions fit for a King or Queen. Let us take a brief glimpse at West Africa and Beyond!
West Africa consists of approximately 16 countries. We have toured and marveled at a few – Senegal, Gambia, Mali, Ghana, Togo, and Benin. Some of you world cruisers have visited the shops on the recent addition of ports of call around the Horn or Western coast of Africa or Jet vacations to Morocco or Mali. Yes, these are all fabulous and I hope to return to all of them too! However, if you say, " I’ve been there, done that", then it’s time to try another part of Africa or see these sights through another pair of eyes – mine. The Djembe (Music), Kora (Music), the silk Kente cloth (Dress) of the Akan peoples of Ghana and the distinct Sudano-Sahelian architectural style (artist) seen in the many mosques of the region, are the primary symbolic icons of West African culture.
Ethiopia affords one the opportunity to take a journey and witness the spiritual influences of ancient religions, through an historic tour of the Northern area of the country. See the Architectural delights in rock hewn churches, and magnificent castles, and monuments with the fascinating historical perspectives of the various influences that have shaped this country. Trek, if you wish, in the mountains, and cruise on the Blue Nile, and follow the Nile across Africa. End your trip with a journey south (as I will do in May) to the Omo Valley region to meet the colorful tribes in their villages and experience the everyday life of markets, rituals and ceremonies. (If I am lucky I hope to get a boat ride to see the wildlife in this area). The same can be said for Uganda. Being a bit beyond my trekking years, (for Gorillas’) I did it for primates. A worthwhile visit was to explore the cultural and historical sites around Kampala, Jinja, and Entebbe. The museums and historical sites are amazing preserved and very good. Nothing could do better than my visit to the filming sites of the “Great King of Scotland’. For lovers of history the tour to visit and touch the Source of the Nile was overwhelming as I headed to spend time at Murchison Falls. Beyond the experience of cruising on this portion to the mouth of the Falls, the abundant display of wildlife in and on both sides of the River was spectacular. Being a lover of safari, my driver and I head out in the late afternoon for a short game drive at the Resort. I had just completed two weeks on safari in Kenya and what I saw equaled about the amount of my entire Kenyan trip! While in Kenya I took a three day road trip to Kisumu, and a day trip to nearby Kigelo - the hometown of the Kenya Obama, Sr. Family. The day was spent visiting schools, gravesites and meeting relatives of the original Obama Family – Yes, I did get a private seating with the paternal grandmother Sarah. As my pictures will show, she is a delight. My Aktion Club of Kiwanis sent signature caps for the schoolchildren. The soccer teams had just won a significant competition and we presented the hats to them. What a cheering they gave! That was their special trophy! Mama Sarah wanted her own and of course she got it. Memories are made of this.
No, it is not for everyone. Collector, musicians, music lovers, designers, historians, educators, artists, sportsman, nature lovers, sociologists, medical professional, and herbalist ,this is the trip for you!
We offer the opportunity for you visit another world; Senegal, Ghana, Gambia, Togo, Benin, Mali or Burkina Faso – to name a few. Our local, English speaking drivers, and ground operators will escort you on a journey of a lifetime. There are modest accommodations in all locations we will visit. Travel is usually via air-conditioned vehicles. The road systems are new to fairly good in most of the destinations. Food is good to excellent. Camps in the deserts are camps! Special festivals and celebrations are ongoing in West Africa, from Music in the desert in Mali (Jan) – to the Roots festival every other year in the Gambia.
These are the trips that are not measured by the breathes you take - but – the experiences that will take your breathe away.
You are invited to view pictures on the website: www.ebonyheritagetravel.com

Thursday, April 7, 2011

Conversation with Lindsey-Lake Tahoe and Celebrate Africa


Lake Tahoe was great! I went with my son and his friends, so that was a little strange when I realized my son’s girlfriend is 30 years younger than me…His girlfriend, Renae is from Northern California, so we stayed with her parents the first night, then drove to South lake Tahoe the next morning and stayed at a Hyatt Vacation place where my brother has a timeshare. There was soooooo much snow! And I love cold weather. We spent that first day shopping and getting everyting ready for skiing on Monday. I used to ski everywhere every year for 20 years, but haven’t been in about 10 years. My first day on the mountain was a little tiring, but I did alright. Tuesday I had all kinds of problems staying up, and getting up when I fell, and it turned out that my right leg had just given out. I could keep that ski straight for anything! So I just took my skis off, and the ski patrol came and got me…laid me down in one of those toboggans, covered me up and went straight down the mountain….faster than I’d ever been before! I figured everyone thought they were bringing a dead body down the mountain! LOL!!!! I spent the next 2 days peacefully alone in the room , reading, napping, taking long walks…Friday we walked down to the Lake, and it was gorgeous. We had great weather the whole time, some snow, lot’s of sun. The others spent some time winning money at the casino and partying…but I got a good break. When we went back to California, I met some cowboy and went horseback riding Saturday morning. I’ve had horses all my life, but it’s been a while since I’d ridden. Great fun. My flight was a red eye out of Sacremento and I didn’t get back to Ft Laud. Until 10AM Sunday. Then I spent the next 3 weeks sick as a dog. I’m finally feeling better. We went to s LHW event Monday night to see the Last Lions, and I won an 8 day trip to South Africa! My mother is an Africa specialist, she’s been over 30 times, so I am going to extend my stay in South Africa and see some additional properties and do a little extra safaris…I’m thinking of going in June or July…it’s winter there and that will make me happy! We’ve been really busy, selling lots of cruises, Africa and Europe…how ‘bout you? We’re having a “Celebrate Africa” event next Wednesday night, with 12 suppliers, about 60 guests, and it’s being held at a facility that has an Africa themed room. I’ll post the photos so you can see. Glad you like Bora Bora…I’ve never been…yet, but we have quite a few specialists in the office. Let’s keep this conversation going…there’s so much to learn from each other! Talk to you soon.

Promote the Value of Travel Agents!

Promote the Value of Travel Agents! Read Mark Murphy's wonderful article on the purpose and committment of travel advisors. Their wisdom and knowledge is pricless...well not pricless...we do have to charge a fee for our services, but think of all the time and effort you save by using an expert!

Monday, March 21, 2011

Crystal Symphony

The Crystal Symphony was in Miami last week and I had the opportunity to take a ship tour. I have been on this ship previously, but that was 2 years ago, and there have been some minor changes made. The main deck, Grand Entry is beautiful, and the piano player creates a soothing atmosphere when you walk in. There is a coffee bar and cocktail bar around the sitting area and you can just sit and relax and watch the people walk by.





The Crystal Lounge is a large lounge, with dancing and partying fun. There is a smoking area around the bar, for those of us that still like to smoke with our cocktails. It''s bright and airy and a very comfortable area to meet your friends before dinner.







The Casino is quit large, with all the games you could ask for...plus poker tournaments, and bingo tournaments. There is a smoking area available.
Great colors...










The pool deck has recently been refurbished with new comfortable lounge chairs, couchs, umbrellas and new colors. The pool is quite large, with a great hot tub above and attached to the pool. There is a shaded seating area next to a bar and food station for snack food and cocktails. It's absolutely beautiful. With 2 specialty restaurants, the Crytal Dining Room, a private 5 course dinner available with wine pairings for up to 10 couples, a Cigar Lounge, computer learning center, Bridge/card room, nice library, and big theater with Broadway style shows....these are just a few of the great things available on board. The cabins are good size, the bathrooms well designed. Feel free to ask more about the special offers available on Crystal for the upcoming year. Thanks.

Friday, February 25, 2011

More conversation with a NextGen travel Advisor

These blog posts are a little out of order, but still make sense!
I can't believe that – the best part of being in the industry is getting to travel! Your month in Israel and Africa sounds phenomenal – what a dream. I love getting to travel and, luckily, I'm not tied down to much right now (husband or children-wise), so I do it as much as possible. In the past year, I've gone on a fam trip to St. Lucia and hosted a Seabourn cruise along the Med – I actually took my parents on the latter, their my favorite travel partners! I'll be going on an Islands in the Sun fam to French Polynesia in March – that's the farthest I've ever traveled and I'm thrilled to see Tahiti, Bora Bora, La Taha'a, and Moorea. You've definitely got to find the time to do so – I hope you have a blast on your Tahoe trip. How old is your son now, and is he your only child?
I can't believe your mother has been to Africa 30 times – how incredible! An African safari is number one on my bucket list to visit and to sell – I can't wait to have the opportunity to research it more for a client and to go one day myself. Micato's mission is beautiful and I'd like to give back to it as much as possible. I'm with you on India, Cambodia, and Vietnam... there are too many places I'd like to see over those. I'm sending my grandmother on an Ireland and Scotland trip with Trafalgar this May – I'll let you know how she likes it!
Thank you for the offer to extend to my friends – where exactly are you located? Let me know if I can ever be of help to your company. Right after Travel Mart, I had discussed working with one of the Next Gen panelists about a venture into recruiting for agencies. You never know what might happen with that, people my age just need to hear it from someone like them in the business – it's really fun and very exciting to be involved in. I would love to continue this discussion, thanks again for getting in touch and I hope we can both learn from one another!

First conversation with a NextGen travel advisor

I wanted to shoot you an e-mail per your direct message (I'm an English major, so keeping it to 140 characters is hard for me), thanks for getting in touch!

I love being a young travel consultant because I feel like the industry is going through such a dramatic change and it's exciting to be part of that change. With the internet's threat to the industry, it's sink or swim – either fight it or learn to integrate it. I'm happy to be involved in a Virtuoso agency so I learn from fellow agencies that are all swimming. I'm actually an advisor at 21 – I'm the youngest I've met so far, even at Travel Mart, but I definitely don't regard my age as a disadvantage. I think I've really had an incredible opportunity to learn at such a young age from veterans in the industry and the Virtuoso network has been so welcoming to my rookie self.

For a little over a year, I've been selling travel as an independent contractor from my apartment in Athens, GA (my home agency is in Columbus, GA) while finishing up my degree and certificates at the University of Georgia. I graduate in May and it's a little up in the air what will happen after that. I want to pursue a career in travel full time, my complication is that I'm not sure which part of the industry is the best for me. I really enjoy being a consultant, but I would love to try my hand at either travel writing (I currently keep a travel blog and write a travel section for a regional magazine in GA) or, as high-stretching of a dream that this is, I would love to get into travel hosting. I've done a little commercial work in the past and feel that if I could combine that passion with travel (all the while keeping up my writing via a travel blog), I'd definitely be living my dream job. Samantha Brown, watch your back!

Speaking of blogs, I checked yours out when you tweeted about the Oceania Marina. What a beautiful ship! I saw the Entertainment Tonight feature on the ship and fell in love – your post just fueled that love – looks like you had an incredible time. Your writing is great!
So, that's a little background on me and my short but growing time in the travel business. I would love to hear your story – how you got involved, what you do now, where's the number one place you've visited that everyone should have on their bucket list, any advice, etc. :)

Sorry I wrote a short novel – told you those 140 characters just don't cut it! Thanks again for getting in touch, look forward to hearing back from you!

Continuing Conversation with a NextGen travel advisor

I asked Lindsey if she minded that we blog our conversation....
Grace,
I don't mind at all, I'm flattered that you asked!
As far as the 30 year old woman, (a possible new advisor for us at PHT) I guess it depends on the set-up. As an IC, I'm solely commission based and within this first year I've made roughly the equivalent of someone who works full time at minimum wage. When you consider the fact that I was doing it part time while going to school full time, I actually think that's a pretty good amount to have earned on the side. When I think about taking the IC career full time as a single girl in my 20s, it scares me that I'll be relying completely on commission, just because that fluctuates so much. It can also be beneficial at times – if you make yourself, you can far exceed a salaried job. I'm also very fortunate to have the support of my parents – they've been so accommodating with letting me move back in and helping me out during the first couple years of being in the real world!
With all of that being said, it has taken me a solid year to build up a good client base and the way I've done that was mainly through attending bridal shows – it's good to give an IC a niche because it's a good place to start. I started learning about the honeymoon industry and along the way, I picked up leads from professors, family friends, etc. I think my career was definitely jump-started by working the bridal shows, though, so 2 years would be a pretty good estimate to build those clients. As far as the 5-years to make a living good enough to be just and advisor, I would imagine that's about right – since I'm only going on year 2 of my career, it's hard to say.

Hope that helps, and please let me know if there's anything else I can answer for you – I'm excited about this conversation and do hope that it can benefit others.

Best,

Lindsey

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Conversation with a NextGen Travel Advisor

It’s funny, when I was young, my parents traveled a lot..before mom bought the agency, and I was able to travel around the world often…my father had business in South America, Panama (although I never got there) and I traveled with friends throughout Europe…I honeymooned in the Greek Islands, visited Turkey, and through my own photography business did a lot of the Caribbean. Once mom bought the agency, she and my dad took all of us kids and my son (8 at the time) for a month in Africa and Israel. Since I’ve been in the business, other than lot’s of 2 night cruises, and 1 trip to Paws Up in Montana, I don’t think I’ve been out of the country. I just can’t seem to find the time to be able to be gone for more than a week. I just can’t be gone long enough to go overseas. I am going to Lake Tahoe next week to go skiing, but am staying at my brothers condo with my son and his friends! I didn’t really want to have to do site inspections while on vacation! I would love to go to Ireland and Scotland…I’d love to go to the Netherlands and Russia in the winter…I do love cold weather….I’d like to visit South Africa, especially since my mother is an Africa expert and has been 30 times! I’m not great in crowds…I’d actually like to do a 2 week cruise somewhere, by myself, so no one can bother me and I could really rest…maybe on Oceania or Regent…that day will come I’m sure of it…but for now, I’ve got to be content and get my days off whenever I can. Let’s keep this conversation going, I enjoy talking with you. And if you have any friends that are looking for a place to get their feet wet in this business, I’ll be happy to talk with them too! Thanks!

Wednesday, February 9, 2011

Oceania Marina

On Saturday February 5th, Sylvia Berman and I boarded the brand new Oceania Marina.
We went to our cabin, a very nice Deluxe Verandah cabin, on the concierge level, 282 sq. ft.-very comfortable, lots of storage, tub and shower in the bathroom, dropped off our bags and went to see the ship. Mary Hart, the ships godmother, was all over, filming segments of her show to be broadcast later in the week.











The first stop was the pool deck, deck 12...lot's of Balinese day beds, comfortable lounge chairs, a good sized swimming pool, showers, hot tubs, The Wave Bar, and a smoking area. Also on Deck 12 is the Terrace Grill, with indoor and outdoor seating areas. Multiple food stations served fresh made food of all types...(as a matter of fact, we had dinner there our first night, (we were not ready for a 2 hour meal that night) and had delicious lamb chops, lobster, crab legs, fruits and vegetables. there was hand made pasta, pizzas, and anything else you would want. The food was wonderful.) Also on Deck 12 is the Bon Apetit cooking school, which holds 24 students for a rousing fun filled cooking lesson. There is also a painting and photography studio available for classes. After grabbing a quick bite to eat for lunch, we went to the next deck up, 14, and visited the Canyon Ranch Spa....beautiful, spacious, with many treatment rooms, good sized gym, and beautiful, private, resting areas overlooking the bow of the ship. You can lay on heated tiled lounges inside, or comfortable lounges outdoors. Towards the back of the ship is the computer room, available for lessons and access to the Internet. One of my favorite parts of the ship is the Library...dark woods, many small areas surrounded by well stocked bookshelves, with very comfortable leather chairs, and a small fireplace to read by. A perfect place to put your feet up and read your favorite novel. On Deck 15 is the Horizon Lounge, a large bar, lot's of seating and the other smoking lounge on the ship. There is also a putting green, tennis, bocce ball, table tennis, and many other light sports available.




At 3:30 we all disembarked the ship to take our seats for the christening of the ship. Some nice entertainment, hor douerves and champagne preceded the formal christening by Mary Hart. Frank Del Rio, President of and other notables made brief but impassioned speeches, describing the attention to detail and passion for design that went into the Marina. Mary hart was noticeably excited about being the godmother of the Marina, and took great joy in the christening.
After reboarding the ship, we all gathered on the pool deck to watch the fireworks as Marina pulled out of port...a few cocktails, then dinner, then an early bedtime. The beds are extremely comfortable, as are the sheets, TV has a good choice of stations, and off to sleep we went. Early morning for a day at sea, and more seeing the ship. Beautiful shops around a more beautiful Grand Staircase, all Lalique glass...we stopped in each of the 4 specialty restaurants, Red Ginger, (Asian fusion and gorgeous!) Jacques, (Jacques Pepin's first cruise ship restaurant, French, obviously) The Polo Grill, (Steakhouse perfection) and the Italian restaurant, whose name escapes me at this moment! All 4 restaurants are no charge, but reservations are required. There are 2 more food spots...Privee', a private dining experience for up to 10 people at $1000, including all courses and wine pairings, and La Reserve, sponsored by Food and Wine Spectator, another private dining experience by reservation only. Lunch was a Virtuoso hosted lunch at Jacques...fabulous, fabulous, fabulous!!!! Virtuoso as a consortium is the leading seller of Oceania cruises, which made us all very proud to be a part of Oceania's success. After lunch, a short nap, since Sunday night was the Super Bowl party and I wanted to make sure I could stay up for that.
I joined some friends in the Horizon Lounge, which has a very big screen TV, and watched the game, drank lot's of cocktails, and smoked to my hearts content in the smoking lounge. It had to be midnight before I got back to our cabin. But I was happy with the new friends I had made, and the outcome of the game.
The next morning we landed in Nassau, and after a quick breakfast, disembarked to visit The Cove, Atlantis, and the One and Only hotel properties. Lot's of walking before we got smart and got a shuttle between the properties and were fortunate to get 2 very good guided inspections at the Cove and One and Only, both beautiful Virtuoso properties. Then back to the ship to inspect the other cabins on board. The penthouse suites are large, and have spacious everything! Including exercise equipment in the cabin, and private media rooms. The Owners Suite is the most beautiful suite I have ever seen on any ship...it takes up the whole back of the ship, with a balcony all around...HUGE bathrooms, exercise room, really masculine, comfortable living room area, with leather furniture, area rugs, seating areas, desk....everything you could ever want for your time at sea. The artwork throughout the Marina is eclectic and wonderful....we looked very hard to see if we could find anything wrong with this ship and the answer is yes...we found 1, yes ONE thing wrong....when the elevator doors open on any "floor" (that's what the elevator says) it is very hard to see the sign that lets you know what deck you're on...that's it...we couldn't find anything else anywhere on the ship that needed improvement! The staff was incredible, the ship beautiful, the food fabulous. I would send any client on this ship with utter confidence that they will have a marvelous time. Oh, this is not a ship for children at all...there is nothing for them to do and no facilities to take care of them, so leave the kids at home and give yourself a well deserved vacation from the world. Enter the world of Marina....






Monday, January 3, 2011

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