2011 Course Catalog - Travel Agent Academy

2011 Course Catalog Your Guide to Higher Learning and Earning

DESTINATIONS

Table of Contents

HOTELS/RESORTS

NICHES

CRUISES

SERVICES

Congratulations! You’ve just taken the first step in…

• Building your knowledge• Empowering your expertise• Boosting your business

Travel Agent Academy courses put you ahead of the competi-tion with the right product and marketing information you need to grow your business. These award-winning programs, created by ex-perts in the travel trade, feature the most effective, interactive travel agent training today, giving you the sales tools you need to succeed. This catalog offers nearly 40 educational programs designed to make you an expert on the products you sell every day, as well as ways to position them to individual market segments, including how-to advice and action tips to get you started immediately increasing your bottom line. When you enroll in a Travel Agent Academy course, you’ll find everything you need at your fingertips. Each individually tailored program uses the latest technology and stunning graphics and ani-mation to engage and motivate you every step of your journey. And as an added bonus, many of the courses provide graduates with valuable tools and incentives including continuing education credits through The Travel Institute, booking rewards programs, consumer lead generation and much more! Plus, you get your own personalized Agent Dashboard to help keep track of the courses you’ve studied, the chapters you’ve completed and your graduation status—all at no cost to you. To make enrollment easy, the programs in the catalog are orga-nized in the same categories that appear on TravelAgentAcademy.com, including a visual key of graduate benefits. Choose to expand your knowledge on one or more categories including…

• Destinations• Cruises• Hotels/Resorts • Services • Niches

So don’t hesitate…Enroll today! We look forward to seeing you online.

START YOUR JOURNEY!www.TravelAgentAcademy.com

Welcome to Travel Agent Academy!

This supplement was produced byPerformance Media Group, LLC

593 Rancocas RoadWestampton, NJ 08060

Publisher: Brett CouvillionEditorial Director: James Shillinglaw

Design Director: Kelly BrockGraphic Designer: TJ Esposito

Executive Editors:Will Jarred

Contributing Editors:Jonathan Cooper

Advertising InquiriesEmail: [email protected]

or call: 856-727-0035Copyright © 2011. All rights reserved.

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CONTINUINg EDUCATION UNIT

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DESTINATIONS

CHENgDU SpECIALIST

Chengdu is “Today’s China”; it is Old, Mysterious, Modern and Trendsetting. As one of the leading tourist cities in China, it combines preservation of the old traditions with a distinct modern vibe. It is both spiritual and historic, offer-ing the finest in accommodations, nightlife, shopping din-ing, and entertainment. And let’s not forget that it is home of the Giant Panda!

What You Will LearnThis course gives you the details to sell Chengdu, from the Top 10 Sites to See, the cultural stand-outs to the need-to-know Fast Facts. Use the sample itineraries and tour operator list to sell to special interest groups and watch your bottom line soar.

Course OutlineChapter One: Welcome to Chengdu - China’s ChinaChapter Two: Experiencing ChengduChapter Three: Marketing Chengdu to Special Interest GroupsChapter Four: Travel Tips and Resources/Accommodations

graduate Benefits• Chengdu Specialist graduates will be accessed as an

expert booking resource by consumers ready to buy and researching vacation options on www.TravelTribe.com.**

• Chengdu Specialist certificate and Chengdu Specialist logo, immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

graduate Bonus Booking Rewards• After reaching a total booking number of 50 travelers to

China, Chengdu Specialists will receive $10 per person for a total of $500.

• 51-199 travelers booked to China, $15 per person, total of $2,220.

• 200-499 people, $20 per person, total of $5,980. • 500 people and up, $30 per person, total of $15,000. • For the travel period November, December, January,

February, March and April, agents will receive an extra $5 per person.

• After booking 50 travelers, Chengdu specialists escort-ing groups to China receive all meals, transportation and insurance free of charge while traveling in China. Airline tickets, hotel accommodations and sightseeing tickets are received at discounted rates.

• After booking 10 groups to China, the travel agent tour guide will travel free of all charges. (A group is defined as 10 person or more).

Applicable Credits2 CEUs from The Travel Institute*

CURACAO INNER CIRCLE

Curaçao is the Hidden Treasure of the Caribbean, standing out among the Caribbean islands. It’s a world of exclusive hideaways, where clients will enjoy sun, sand and sea, plus incredible diving, a vibrant European and African culture, and excellent dining, shopping and entertainment. Romance is ever-present, and nature adventures await. Meeting-goers rely on Curaçao to offer the best of leisure time with the fa-cilities they need.

What You Will LearnStep inside this land of Dutch influence, and explore its his-tory, its people, and heritage, as well as the sites that cel-ebrate these things. Become a Specialist and match special interests with the right clients, and learn about soft adven-ture, destination weddings and honeymoons, convention business, and family fun.

Course OutlineChapter One: Curaçao: The Hidden Treasure of the CaribbeanChapter Two: Curaçao: The Right Match for Your Clients’ Special InterestsChapter Three: Fast Facts/Romance, Weddings & Honeymoons/Meetings & Conventions

graduate Benefits• Consumer Referrals as a Curaçao’s Inner Circle Spe-

cialist on the following consumer websites:www.Curacao.com: The Curaçao Tourist Board’s con-sumer website searchable by zip code.www.TravelTribe.com: Graduates will be accessed as an expert booking resource by consumers ready to buy and researching vacation options on www.Trav-elTribe.com.**

• Curaçao’s Inner Circle certificate and Curaçao’s Inner Circle logo, immediately downloadable to use to pro-mote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.


LEARN ABOUT DUBAI SpECIALIST

Step inside a world of pure indulgence in the luxurious cos-mopolitan city of Arabia. Dubai is simply like no other place in the world. It is the center of business and tourism in the Middle East within the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Clean and uncrowded beaches, magnificent resorts, shopping mec-cas, and active adventures amid the Arabian Desert and upon Dubai Creek’s waters await your clients. Plus, they’ll be immersed in cultural discoveries in the Arabian way of life.

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What You Will LearnThere are many thrilling surprises for the visitor to Dubai and within this course you’ll explore the luxury, historic attractions and activities that make Dubai one of the most fascinating places anywhere. Get the practical information on getting there, getting around, where to stay and the cultural customs.

Course OutlineChapter One: The World of DubaiChapter Two: Cosmopolitan DubaiChapter Three: Heritage Dubai Chapter Four: Sports & Activities

graduate Benefits• Dubai Specialist Diploma and exclusive use of a Dubai

Specialist logo, immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

EgYpT SpECIALIST

The Egypt Specialist Campus brings you into a community of learning about one of the Hottest Selling and Best Value International Destinations. Clients are thrilled again and again by the upclose look at Egypt’s ancient and mythical civilizations, and enthralled by the charms of its underwater world, and active vacation options.

What You Will LearnThe Egypt Specialist Basic Course shows you how the country is a perfect fit with today’s travelers wanting va-cations with outdoor and adventure travel experiences. You’ll get an overview of Egypt’s key attractions, and tips on profiling customers, including the right questions to ask in order to match up the key special interests with the right vacation experiences.

Course OutlineChapter One: The Many Faces of EgyptChapter Two: Marketing Egypt to Special Interest GroupsChapter Three: Selling Egypt Resources

graduate Benefits• Client Lead Generation Program: Consumer Referrals

via placement on the following consumer websites:www.Egypt.travel: Egyptian Tourist Authority’s consum-er website listing, searchable by zip code.www.TravelTribe.com: Graduates will be accessed as an expert booking resource by consumers ready to buy and researching vacation options on www.Trav-elTribe.com.**

• Egypt Travel Specialist certificate and Egypt Travel Spe-cialist logo, immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.


EL SALVADOR SpECIALIST

In the heart of Central America, El Salvador is a surprisingly diverse and compact country. In one day, visitors can travel from colonial cities to sunny beaches to towering volcanoes. It’s a yet undiscovered destination just waiting to impress your clients.

What You Will LearnSee how easy it is to sell El Salvador to your clients seek-ing some place yet to be explored. This course tells you the basics about planning a trip to El Salvador and lists 10 Rea-sons To Choose it as your next vacation. Learn how to make this safe, close and beautifully diverse country of historical sights and soft adventure a favored spot with clients.

Course OutlineChapter One: IntroductionChapter Two: Historical El SalvadorChapter Three: Nature/Soft AdventureChapter Four: Practical Matters

graduate Benefits• El Salvador Specialist Diploma and exclusive use of an

El Salvador Specialist Training Academy logo, immedi-ately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

EUROpEAN QUARTET NORTHERN EUROpE SpECIALIST

The four neighboring countries of the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland and Slovakia form a special destination within Europe. Because the four countries are members of the Schengen Zone, there are no passport checks at the land borders so, getting from one country to the next is easy. They share the sales features of the warmth of their people; outdoor adventures with spectacular scenery as a backdrop; and historic and religious art and archi-tectural treasures—including numerous UNESCO World Heritage sites.

What You Will LearnTake a tour of the spa towns, traditional villages, magnificent castles, and vibrant capital cities and their numerous attrac-tions within these countries that share common borders. And once you complete the general course, the Master’s Course will delve deeper into Planning the Best Vacations Possible for Your Clients. Resources, including itineraries, tour opera-tor and hotel listings, give you the tools you need to plan the perfect European Quartet trip.

Course OutlineChapter 1: Czech RepublicChapter 2: HungaryChapter 3: PolandChapter 4: Slovakia

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Master’s Chapter 1: Planning the Best Vacations Possible for Your Clients

graduate Benefits• Free Internet listing as a European Quartet Specialist

on the individual country websites • European Quartet Specialist Diploma and exclusive

use of a European Quartet Specialist Training Academy logo, immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients. Receive Master’s Graduate Certificate upon completion of that course

• Priority listing for invitations to FAM trips, seminars and events hosted by the European Quartet

• Free promotional materials• Consultant service• Distribution of the list of agent specialists (with contact

information) at all European Quartet events held in North America

VISIT FINLAND SpECIALIST

Journey to the land of the midnight sun, a surprising year-round destination. Meet the people of Finland who live a bal-anced lifestyle in a land of remarkable geography, outdoor recreation and wellness, and high tech cities of design. With each new season in Finland comes a different set of adven-tures to experience.

What You Will LearnUnderstand how to position Finland as a premium travel product for the better-traveled client seeking a sophisticated new destination. See what thrills await in Fall, Winter, Spring and Summer, not just in the warm weather months.

Course OutlineChapter One: Understanding FinlandChapter Two: Year-RoundChapter Three: Finland Facts

graduate Benefits• Destination Finland Specialist diploma and exclusive

use of a Finland Specialist and Visit Finland logo, imme-diately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

• Being listed on the visitfinland.com website as a Special-ist and obtaining referrals from website

• Eligibility for a Finland fam trip on successful completion of training

• Priority in cooperative promotional activities with the Finnish Tourist Board

• Priority in inclusion in Destination Finland presenta-tions, etc.; and incentive gifts based on established productivity

• Contact with supporting vendors that offer select discount deals, packages and upgraded services for graduates


HONDURAS SpECIALIST

Honduras is a land of natural beauty that packs a lot into its compact size with natural, cultural and archaeological attrac-tions. Discover tropical cloud forests, mangrove swamps and lagoons and rain forests. It is home to Copan, the Maya’s crowing artistic achievement, and the Caribbean Honduras of charming coastal towns near wetlands, national parks and wildlife refuges.

What You Will LearnDiscover the three worlds of Honduras: Tropical Nature, Maya Renaissance and Caribbean Creation. Learn of its many at-tractions and the right markets for it, including honeymoon, destination weddings and romance; divers and watersports lovers; and ecotourists and adventure-seekers.

Course OutlineChapter One: Traveling to HondurasChapter Two: The Destinations & AttractionsChapter Three: Selling the Markets

graduate Benefits• Honduras Specialist Diploma and exclusive use of a

Honduras Specialist logo, immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

JApAN. ENDLESS DISCOVERY.

Japan’s endless attractions include both modern and ancient treasures, plus a natural beauty all its own. It is a country of historic monuments, castles, shrines and museums; colorful festivals; unique cultural, entertain-ment, dining and shopping experiences; modern achieve-ments in architecture, technology, transportation and pop culture.

What You Will LearnFind out how to position Japan’s diverse tourist cities and attractions as the perfect match for your clients’ dream va-cations, and a destination to visit again and again. Get the information you need on the country’s range of hotels, trans-portation, and the key special interest groups that Japan will most appeal to.

Course OutlineChapter One: Japan. Endless Discovery.Chapter Two: Major DestinationsChapter Three: Selling to Special Interests

graduate Benefits• Japan Travel Specialist Certificate and exclusive use of

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Japan Travel Specialist logo, immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

• Priority Invitation to familiarization trips, seminars hosted by Japan National Tourist Organization (JNTO), and Ja-pan tourism events hosted by JNTO’s supporting suppliers

• Consumer leads: Free internet listing as a Japan Travel Specialist

• Travel Agent on www.japantravelinfo.com and www.TravelTribe.com.**

• Free promotional materials • Bi-monthly newsletter with updates on destinations,

products and offers• Japan Travel Specialist desk for first hand support in

offering tourism information for your clients• Plus, access Japan-related consumer e-newsletters on

www.travelpulse.com by visiting Japan’s Destination Profile or just typing in Japan in the search box on www.travelpulse.com.

JORDAN TRAVEL SpECIALIST

Jordan captivated ancient travelers and today continues to enthrall its visitors who come to see a modern, vibrant nation that is home to some of the world’s greatest archaeological finds. Explore its five major touring regions of Amman, North Jordan, Eastern Desert, Dead Sea and South Jordan to dis-cover its cultural heritage, outdoor adventures and health and wellness attractions.

What You Will LearnOnce you complete the course, you will be able to create a realistic portrayal of Jordan by recognizing its key histori-cal developments and current cultural and tourism charac-teristics. You will be able to develop strategies for selling Jordan, including how to segment your market, plan itiner-aries, and handle your customers’ questions and concerns about traveling to Jordan.

Course OutlineChapter One: General InformationChapter Two: Map & Site DescriptionChapter Three: The Religious MarketChapter Four: Eco Adventure MarketChapter Five: Voluntourism & Sustainable EffortsChapter Six: Health and Wellness, Spa & LuxuryChapter Seven: Culinary, Cruising and Marketing and Incentives

graduate Benefits• Certificate of graduation as a Jordan Travel Specialist

and a Specialist logo, immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

• As a Jordan Travel Specialist you will be promoted on the Jordan Tourism Board North America’s website (www.visitjordan.com).

Applicable CreditsRecognized by The Travel Institute* and the Canadian Institute of Travel Counselors for Canadian agents.

mExICO CATEgORY SpECIALIST

Be a part of the revival that is taking place in Mexico. Home to luxurious resorts, historic and cultural sites and attractions, Mexico is a great value close to home.

What You Will LearnUnderstand the market segments for selling to Mexico, how to dispel the myths associated with the country, and about the beach and resort destinations, as well as the major all-inclusive brands, when you take this Category Specialist course. You’ll also be provided with specific package infor-mation from sponsors Now Resorts & Spas and Dreams Resorts & Spas.

Course OutlineChapter One: Selling MexicoChapter Two: The Beach and Resort ExperienceChapter Three: A Look at Markets

graduate Benefits• Mexico Travel Specialist diploma and exclusive

use of a Mexico Travel Specialist logo, immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

• Special client offers for participating agents.

pHILIppINES SpECIALIST The Philippine Department of Tourism takes you on a spe-cial journey as you go sightseeing around the country’s top destinations. The Philippines offers a unique mix of the best of Asian and Western cultures. A visit here is one of being immersed in a land of incredible history, culture and natural beauty on land and below the sea.

What You Will LearnThe focus of the course is on special interests, including the Philippines’ rich history, famous world heritage sites, exotic beaches and islands, fabulous shopping, world-renowned pampering, colorful festivals and delectable cuisine.

Course OutlineChapter One: Beyond the UsualChapter Two: Where to ExploreChapter Three: Matching Destinations to Clients’ Special InterestsChapter Four: Selling Additional Markets

graduate Benefits• A chance for a free familiarization trip to select Philippine

travel destinations.

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• Completion of a familiarization trip elevates you to “Phil-ippine Specialist – Pearl Level” and you receive a gift of pearls from the Secretary of Tourism.

• Philippine Specialist diploma and logo, immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

• Surprise gifts. • The chance to be hosted by the Philippine Department

of Tourism for three days (including transfers, hotels, meals and city tours) should you choose to travel to the Philippines on your own.

• Receive the latest information on Philippine tourism to facilitate selling and booking of clients.

• Bonus incentives for top sellers.

pUERTO RICO TRAVEL ExpERT

No Passport Required to enter this vacation paradise. The Is-lands of Puerto Rico offers a unique culture, history and wide variety of attractions within its 78 distinctive municipalities. Go beyond selling the fun in the sun destination and focus on special interests, such as hiking in a forest or climbing a cave; superb cuisine, sizzling nightlife and exciting casinos; roman-tic walks on a moonlit beach; drives through small towns, fish-ing villages and an amazing variety of cultural activities; and a stay in a unique Paradore.

What You Will LearnThe new Puerto Rico Travel Expert Campus provides ac-cess to Course 101 (Chapters 1-4), the Master’s Course (Chapters 5-11) and exciting Incentives/Rewards program. The comprehensive program shows you how Puerto Rico can fill the vacation and meetings and convention needs of just about every client. The course details Puerto Rico’s ap-peals for wide-ranging special interests, and provides links to many additional resources and sales tools to make it eas-ier for you to plan Puerto Rico vacations according to your clients’ individual needs.

Course OutlineCourse 101Chapter One: Welcome to Puerto Rico!Chapter Two: Accommodations/MeetingsChapter Three: Puerto Rico for FamiliesChapter Four: Puerto Rico for Couples/Singles/Active Travelers Master’s CourseChapter Five: Scuba Specialist ChapterChapter Six: Golf Capital of The CaribbeanChapter Seven: Nature and AdventureChapter Eight: Explore Porta del Sol and Porta CaribeChapter Nine: Vieques and CulebraChapter 10: Selling Pre and Post Cruise PackagesChapter 11: Weddings/Honeymoons

graduate BenefitsCourse 101 (Chapters 1-4)

• Certification as a Puerto Rico Travel Expert (PRTE)• PRTE ID card• Listing in the Locate a PRTE section of Puerto Rico’s

consumer website (www.seepuertorico.com)• Access to PRTE Incentives • Access to Master’s Course• Access to Library/Resources (sales aids and special

offers for you and your clients, updated periodically)• Automatic subscription to Que Pasa Magazine• Monthly e-newsletter with up-to-the-minute information

and special offersMaster’s Course (Chapters 5-11; completion of Course 101 required)• All the benefits of Course 101• Master Agent Certification• Master Agent PRTE ID Card• $25 Gift Certificate (completion of Chapters 1-11 and

at least one verified booking entered into the Incentives site required)


SEAWORLD pARkS & ENTERTAINmENT SpECIALIST

Take a grand tour around this unique collection of 10 parks throughout the country that provide clients with authentic, in-spiring “real world” experiences with up-close exotic animal encounters, the best roller coasters and thrill rides and the most innovative and exciting shows and attractions.

What You Will LearnDiscover why SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment are among the most beautiful and best-known family-oriented theme parks in the world. You’ll learn how to position them to clients, choose the ideal ticket options, and get details on all major attractions within each park to help you sell with confidence.

Course OutlineChapter One: About SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment Chapter Two: SeaWorld Orlando & Aquatica in OrlandoChapter Three: Discovery Cove, OrlandoChapter Four: Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Adventure IslandChapter Five: SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment Ticket ProductsChapter Six: Busch Gardens Williamsburg and Water Country USA in VirginiaChapter Seven: Sesame PlaceChapter Eight: SeaWorld San Antonio Chapter Nine: SeaWorld San Diego

graduate Benefits• SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment Specialist diploma

and logo, immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

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• Two free tickets to one of our theme parks (except Discovery Cove)

Applicable Credits5 CEUs from The Travel Institute*6 CITC credits for Canadian Institute of Travel Counsellors program

SOUTH AFRICA FUNDI

South Africa is a place of countless wonders and experienc-es that cater to a myriad of client expectations. It provides an established tourism infrastructure, year-round great weather and a diversity of product offerings, including an impressive range in wildlife and nature experiences. Its unique land-scape, fascinating people and vibrant culture, make South Africa FUNDI a destination that’s easy to sell.

What You Will LearnClick on the South Africa Campus for the South African FUN-DI Course, Provinces building with videos, Transportation building with videos, Resources building, and Virtual Travel Seminar. Arrivals growth rates to South Africa far outstrip those of the rest of the world and in this course you’ll find out how to capitalize on this huge interest in the country. Get the details on the attractions of the country’s nine provinces and provided itineraries to help you create FITs for clients.

Course OutlineChapter One: Introduction to South AfricaChapter Two: Selling South AfricaChapter Three: Positioning the ExperiencesChapter Four: Suggested ItinerariesChapter Five: The Provinces

graduate Benefits• FUNDI, South Africa’s Destination Specialist Program

Diploma and exclusive use of a FUNDI, South Afri-ca’s Destination Specialist Program logo, immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

• Invitation to participate in South African Tourism familiar-ization trips and/or our annual trade show held in South Africa – Indaba, with specially priced Indaba fares.

• Inclusion to South African Tourism successful lead re-ferral system that is designed to generate business for yourself and your company.

• Monthly FUNDI e-newsletter featuring product updates, marketing info and selling tips.

• Phone and email access to South African Tourism 24/7 help desk.

• Preferred access to order collateral including maps, posters, DVDs and magazines.

• Invitation to South African Tourism hosted events in the US.• Dedicated FUNDI travel specials for personal travel to

South Africa.

SOUTHERN AFRICA SpECIALIST

Explore the world of the exotic countries of South Africa, Na-mibia, Tanzania, Botswana and Zambia, plus a chapter dedi-cated to Victoria Falls. The exciting experiences here include the famed options for viewing wildlife in their natural habitats, great beaches, as well as South Africa’s wine country and the many cultures of the region.

What You Will LearnClients heading to this part of the world seek extraordinary itineraries, and this extensive course provides you with the tools to create the ideal vacations to one or more of the featured countries. The program offers details on the products of these countries—including hotels, tour op-erators, luxury rail and airlines—giving you the need-to-know information for booking trips here. Sponsors to the program include South African Airways and South African Airways Vacations.

Course OutlineChapter One: Getting There and Getting AroundChapter Two: South Africa: The Cape and the CoastChapter Three: South Africa: The Inland ProvincesChapter Four: NamibiaChapter Five: TanzaniaChapter Six: Victoria FallsChapter Seven: BotswanaChapter Eight: Zambia

graduate Benefits• Southern Africa Specialist certificate and logo, immedi-

ately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

THAILAND gOLDEN AgENT SpECIALIST

This comprehensive program about the gateway to Indo-China highlights Thailand’s many attractions, such as the hospitality of the Thai people; architecture, from ancient to modern; glorious temples; ruins of ancient kingdoms; the opportunity to visit with the country’s Hill-Tribe People and tour their villages; cosmopolitan cities, and modern ameni-ties. The course also teach you about the country’s beaches and islands, adventure travel experiences, and much more.

What You Will LearnGain the confidence you need to effectively and enthusiasti-cally sell this great destination and earn high-end commis-sions. The Thailand Campus includes the Specialist Course, plus Library/Resources (with useful links for more info), Virtual Travel Seminars (three to choose from), and Virtual Tours of the country.

Course OutlineChapter One: Introduction

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Chapter Two: Thai People; History; CultureChapter Three: islands; Beaches; Shopping; CuisineChapter Four: Active VacationsChapter Five: Accommodations: SpasChapter Six: Getting There; Getting Around; Tour Operators

graduate Benefits• Exposure every time a consumer asks for information

from the Thailand Tourism Authority. A list of agent spe-cialists, with their contact information, will be distributed at all events.

• Thailand Golden Agent Specialist certificate and logo, immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

• Priority listed for future familiarization trips to the destination.

• Receive all the latest information, product news and specials before anyone else.

UNITED STATES VIRgIN ISLANDS (USVI) TRAVEL SpECIALIST

The islands of the USVI--St. Croix, St. John and St. Thom-as—each have their own unique appeals. This is a region of pristine beaches with turquoise waters, secluded coves and breathtaking coral reefs; tropical forest; friendly people; posh hotels, cozy inns and unspoiled campgrounds; won-derful restaurants; world-class shopping; romantic settings for special weddings and honeymoons; superb venues for meetings & incentives; diving, snorkeling, yachting, fishing; golf, and more.

What You Will LearnThe USVI Virtual Campus includes the General Course, Master’s Course and Library/Resources building. There is also a USVI Video and Scrapbook sales tool for your use. The courses here will enable you to sell all three destina-tions’ attractions and features, as well as the special inter-est markets of weddings and honeymoons, meetings and incentives and dive.

Course OutlineChapter One: IntroductionChapter Two: St. CroixChapter Three: St. JohnChapter Four: St. ThomasChapter Five: Selling the MarketsMaster’s CoursesChapter Six: Destination Weddings & HoneymoonsChapter Seven: Meetings & IncentivesChapter Eight: Diving

graduate Benefits• USVI Travel Specialist certificate and logo (following

completion of introductory Chapters 1-5), immediately

downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

• USVI Master Graduate certificate (following comple-tion of Graduate course Chapter 6-8), immediately downloadable.

• Early notification of USVI special offers.• Priority invitation to in-market events (when available). • Opportunity to win an all-inclusive trip to the USVI.• Opportunity to be featured as the agent of the month in

the USVI monthly newsletter.


CRUISES

CCL UNIVERSITY

Carnival Cruise Lines has a fleet of 22 “Fun Ships”, packed with incredible features and renovations. Cruises span from 3 to 12 days and sail from 19 departure ports, 15 in the U.S. alone. Destinations include the Caribbean, The Bahamas and Mexico, Canada, Alaska, Hawaii and Bermuda.

What You Will LearnEarn a Bachelor’s of Fun degree and become a Carnival Fu-nologist with this course that includes valuable information on the superior value of cruising with Carnival. It provides proven sales techniques on how to close more sales and increase your business. Each chapter offers interesting facts that give you the knowledge and skills to find new business, create loyalty within your existing client base and make the most out of Carnival’s sales and marketing tools.

Course OutlineChapter One: The Evolution of Carnival FunChapter Two: The Fleet of FunChapter Three: Carnival’s World of FunChapter Four: How to Become a FunologistChapter Five: Partnering with Carnival: Your Fun Resource

graduate Benefits• Personalized CCL University Diploma and logo,

immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

Applicable Credits4 CEUs from The Travel Institute*5 CLIA credits

CRUISE BALTIC NORTHERN EUROpE SpECIALIST

The popularity of cruises throughout the 10-country Baltic Sea region has boomed. Meeting the growing demand, 26

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destinations, 45 partners in 10 countries created Cruise Bal-tic. Within the 10 countries of Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Poland, Russia and Sweden, natural beauty, breathtaking historical sites, fasci-nating culture and sophisticated cities abound.

What You Will LearnInspire clients to embark on an unforgettable Baltic Sea cruise by taking this course designed to familiarize you with the Baltic region so you can communicate the allure to your clients with confidence. Learn which cruise lines operate in the Baltic Sea, why clients should choose this region, and about the attractions that make the region unlike any other in the world.

Course OutlineChapter One: Welcome to Cruise BalticChapter Two: Selling the DestinationChapter Three: Getting ThereChapter Four: Scandic Hotels

graduate Benefits• Cruise Baltic Specialist Diploma and exclusive use of a

Cruise Baltic Specialist logo, immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

HOTELS/RESORTS

BAYmONT INN & SUITES® SpECIALIST

Recognized as an emerging mid-scale lodging brand, Bay-mont Inn & Suites prides itself on listening to its guests and treating them like neighbors, in what they call offering “Home-town Hospitality”, complete with all the comforts of home. En-roll today in the Baymont Inn & Suites Specialist course and share some of this “Hometown Hospitality” with your clients.

What You Will Learn Discover all the wonderful things that set Baymont Inn & Suites apart for both your leisure as well as your corporate clients. Learn how your clients can earn valuable points with the Wyndham Rewards® program, the largest hotel rewards program in the world.

Course OutlineChapter One: Meeting the Needs of the TravelersChapter Two: About Wyndham RewardsChapter Three: Just for Travel Agents graduate Benefits • Baymont Inn & Suites Specialist certificate and

Baymont Inn & Suites Specialist logo, immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

graduate Bonus Booking Rewards• Automatic enrollment in the Baymont Inn & Suites Rewards

program, in which you are rewarded for booking Baymont properties at www.baymontspecialistrewards.com.


HAWTHORN® SUITES BY WYNDHAm SpECIALIST

Make clients feel right at home by selling them a Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham stay. Whether it’s a temporary assign-ment, relocating to a new area, or relaxing with family, this extended stay brand offers numerous amenities. Guests re-ceive free daily hot breakfast buffets, free evening social hours, free Internet, plus exercise facilities, guest laundry, convenience store and more.

What You Will LearnThis program is designed to help you understand the extend-ed stay market, who the typical guests are, and what the sales features are that set Hawthorn Suites apart from its competi-tors. All agents who pass the course are automatically regis-tered to be a part of Hawthorn Suites by Wyndham’s travel agent rewards program.

Course OutlineChapter One: All the comforts of home and then some

graduate Benefits• Hawthorn Suites Specialist diploma and logo, immedi-

ately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

• Receive e-newsletters designed to help sell even more Hawthorn Suites stays.

graduate Bonus Booking Rewards• Enrollment in the Hawthorn Suites Rewards pro-

gram. Graduates are able to register all bookings at www.HawthornRewards.com and for every five bookings receive a $25 gift certificate to www.Gift Certificates.com.


HOLIDAY INN RESORTS ARUBA & JAmAICA SpECIALIST

$20 million in renovations and upgrades have enhanced the appeal of both Holiday Inn SunSpree Resorts in Aruba and Montego Bay, Jamaica. The properties boast friendly staff, spectacular beachfront locations, exciting watersports and land activities, choice of dining options and free supervised

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children’s activities, making them an easy sell.

What You Will LearnThe course provides a comprehensive “tour” of both resorts, including locations, room categories and amenities and re-sort facilities. You’ll understand which markets to sell them to, including honeymooners, destination weddings, families and seniors, and be provided with package information to make it easy for you.

Course OutlineChapter One: Welcome to Holiday Inn Resorts Aruba & JamaicaChapter Two: Holiday Inn Resort ArubaChapter Three: Holiday Inn Resort, Montego Bay, Jamaica — All Inclusive

graduate Benefits• Holiday Inn Resorts Aruba and Jamaica Specialist cer-

tificate and logo, immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

graduate Bonus Booking Rewards• Holiday Inn Resorts Aruba & Jamaica Rewards Pro-

gram: Once you complete this education program, and gain your specialist status, you will be in the best posi-tion to take advantage of Holiday Inn Resorts Aruba & Jamaica’s travel agent rewards program. Go to: www.hicaribbeanrewards.com for full details.

HYATT TRAVEL SpECIALIST

Hyatt is a global hospitality company with widely recognized, industry leading brands and a tradition of innovation devel-oped over its more than 50-year-history. Hyatt’s mission is to provide authentic hospitality by making a difference in the lives of the people it touches every day.

What You Will LearnBoost your sales of all Hyatt brands including Hyatt®, Park Hyatt®, Andaz®, Grand Hyatt®, Hyatt Regency®, Hyatt Place® and Hyatt Summerfield Suites® with this course. Key selling features and typical guest are provided for each brand, plus there is a section on leisure travel programs and business travel to further offer sales tips.

Course OutlineChapter One: Introduction to HyattChapter Two: Overview of BrandsChapter Three: Leisure Travel ExperienceChapter Four: Business Travel, Meetings & Events

graduate Benefits• Certificate of graduation from Hyatt Hotels & Resorts

and a Specialist logo, immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

• An opportunity to register for Hyatt’s monthly Travel Agent e-newsletter with special offers, incentives and news.


RAmADA® WORLDWIDE SpECIALIST

The ever-expanding Ramada Worldwide has over 900 ho-tels in 34 countries. The brand is committed to offering a range of hotels in the business and leisure destinations that are most important to your client.

What You Will LearnExpand your knowledge on Ramada Worldwide’s North American and international brand product tiers, the benefits and features of each and the right markets for them. You’ll also learn how to position the Wyndham Rewards® program, the largest hotel rewards program in the world.

Course OutlineChapter One: Ramada WorldwideChapter Two: Positioning Ramada Worldwide’s TiersChapter Three: Wyndham Rewards

graduate Benefits• Ramada® Worldwide Diploma and logo, immediately


• Exclusive e-newsletters with brand updates, special of-fers and promotions.

graduate Bonus Booking Rewards• Automatic enrollment in the Ramada® Worldwide Spe-

cialist Rewards Program, in which you are rewarded for booking Ramada Worldwide properties.


WINgATE BY WYNDHAm® HOTEL SpECIALIST

All Wingate by Wyndham hotels are “Built for Business”, clearly establishing the brand’s core markets with these three words. Dedicated to making your client’s stays as comfortable and productive as possible, each ho-tel is proud to offer a host of valuable amenities at no extra charge.

What You Will LearnWingate by Wyndham hotels are the perfect choice for your clients who seek mid-priced accommodations. Armed with the information on the brand’s bonus features and amenities you’ll be able to close more sales. Discover more on the Wyn-

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dham Rewards loyalty program, with over 6,000 participating hotels, resorts and vacation clubs worldwide.

Course OutlineChapter One: All the tools to succeed…Chapter Two: Wingate by Wyndham hotels – Value and then some…Chapter Three: Just for Travel Agents

graduate Benefits• Wingate by Wyndham Specialist Diploma and logo,

immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

• E-newsletters designed to help you sell

graduate Bonus Booking Rewards• A $25 Gift Certificate for every 5 bookings at www.

WingateRewards.com


WYNDHAm HOTELS AND RESORTS SpECIALIST

Wyndham Hotels and Resorts’ wide choice of locations and broad array of amenities, services, ambience and style make the Wyndham brand a great fit for leisure and business clients with varied budgets, tastes and priorities.

What You Will LearnExplore Wyndham’s brands and what sets them apart, while understanding the guests of today and tomorrow. The course provides tips on targeting Generation X travelers and specific property suggestions for special interests, for both leisure and business.

Course OutlineChapter One: Meeting the Needs of Today’s TravelersChapter Two: Wyndham Hotels and ResortsChapter Three: Selling Wyndham Hotels and Resorts

graduate Benefits• Opportunity to enter a monthly sweepstakes for a

chance to win a $500 American Express gift card*. No purchase necessary to participate. (See Travel AgentAcademy.com for Sweepstakes terms and conditions.)

• Wyndham Hotels and Resorts Specialist diploma and logo, immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

• E-newsletters designed to help you sell.


WYNN LAS VEgAS AmBASSADOR

Chairman and CEO Steve Wynn himself introduces this program designed to make you an expert at selling the 2,716 room Wynn Las Vegas. Wynn is proud of how the property is truly different among Las Vegas hotels and how it treats guests with timeless elements, such as fresh flow-ers, beautiful gardens, sunlight and “neighborhoods”, some bursting with energy and excitement and others intimate and serene.

What You Will LearnThe program leads you on a journey to the main selling fea-tures and “Moments of Discovery” that make Wynn Las Ve-gas stand out. You’ll learn the market focus for positioning meetings, conventions and destination weddings. A listing of preferred wholesalers helps you know who to book with. Graduates of the course are enrolled in the Wynn Las Vegas Rewards Program.

Course OutlineChapter One: Discover Wynn Las VegasChapter Two: Inside WynnChapter Three: Market Focus

graduate Benefits• Receive a graduate diploma and logo designating your

Wynn Las Vegas Ambassador status, immediately down-loadable to use to promote your expertise to clients.

graduate Bonus Booking Rewards• As an Ambassador, you will automatically be enrolled

in the Wynn Las Vegas Rewards Program. After your first qualified booking in this program, you will receive a special invitation to participate in Wynn Las Vegas Familiarization trips. The Wynn Las Vegas booking re-wards program is a performance-based program. By entering each reservation into the booking tracker you will qualify for exciting rewards, including trips to Wynn Las Vegas, Wynn gift cards, and more! Only enrolled and certified Ambassadors are eligible. Remember, you must input each reservation into the booking track-er in order to accumulate your rewards. Room nights and show tickets can earn you points.


SERVICES

AVIS SpECIAL AgENT

Avis has 2,200 locations in the United States, Canada,

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Australia, New Zealand and the Latin America/Caribbean region; plus, Avis Europe owns or franchises an additional 2,900 Avis locations in Europe, Africa, the Middle East and Asia. With this number of locations, it will be easy for you to tie-in the Avis car rental with your clients’ vacation and business plans.

What You Will LearnThis course assists you to expand your car rental sales. Once you complete this seminar, you’ll have the information you need to book the Avis premium car rental experience. Plus, you’ll have access to additional sales tools to help boost your car rental bookings.

Course OutlineChapter One: Avis Customer Service (Part 1)Chapter Two: Avis Customer Service (Part 2)Chapter Three: Avis InternationallyChapter Four: Travel Agent Programs

graduate Benefits• Avis Special Agent certificate and logo, immediately


Applicable Credits2 CEUs from The Travel Institute* with successful comple-tion of both the Budget Smart Agent and the Avis Special Agent program.

BUDgET SmART AgENT

Budget Rent A Car has over 1,700 locations in more than 50 countries. This course shows you how to satisfy both leisure and business clients looking for value-priced car rentals.

What You Will LearnLearn about Budget products and services so you can provide your customers with comprehensive information about the value of booking Budget. Get details on the Un-limited Budget agent incentive program; Budget Weblink; Budget Business Rewards, Budget Meetings and Group Services, Budget Rapid Rez and Fast Break services, and more.

Course OutlineChapter One: IntroductionChapter Two: Unlimited BudgetChapter Three: Budget Business RewardsChapter Four: Hassle Free Rentals

graduate Benefits • Budget Smart Agent Certificate and logo, immediately


Applicable Credits2 CEUs from The Travel Institute* when you successfully complete both the Budget Smart Agent and Avis Special Agent seminars.

NICHES

CRUISE CATEgORY SpECIALIST The cruise industry is the fastest-growing segment of the travel industry. It is estimated that in 2010, 14.3 million people cruised. Ninety percent of all cruise vacations are booked through travel agents, and cruise sales account for more than half of all vacation sales among travel agents. The Cruise Category Specialist Program is an investment that will pay off in more sales and happy clients.

What You Will LearnUnderstand the basics of capturing the business of the approximately 80 percent of Americans that have yet to cruise. Get information on the cruise industry of today, projections for the future and what it will mean for how you sell this vast market. Look at the products out there, and who is today’s cruisers to better market your services to them.

Course OutlineChapter One: The Cruise MarketChapter Two: Cruise ChoicesChapter Three: Cruise Sales & Marketing

graduate Benefits• Cruise Specialist diploma and exclusive use of a Cruise

Specialist logo, immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.

• Special client offers for participating agents

FAmILY TRAVEL CATEgORY SpECIALIST

Family Travel is a niche that continues to increase every year, with parents seeking to spend more and more quality time with their children. And don’t forget about Grandma and Grandpa, who often pick up the tab for the whole clan during a family group or small reunion booking.

What You Will LearnUnderstand why families travel and what they’re looking for in a family vacation and you’re sure to close the sale. This course shows you research that offers insight into the market. It then outlines the choices for family trav-el and how to reach and find this lucrative market. Get product information to help you sell from sponsors Now Resorts & Spas , SeaWorld Parks & Entertainment and CIE Tours International.

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Course OutlineChapter One: The Family Travel MarketChapter Two: Selling Family TravelChapter Three: Marketing Family Travel

graduate Benefits• Family Travel Specialist diploma and exclusive use of a

Family Travel Specialist logo, immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.


HONEYmOONS AND DESTINATION WEDDINg SpECIALIST 3

The third version of the Honeymoons and Destination Wed-ding Specialist focuses on this lucrative market. More than 2 million Americans get married each year and this course teaches you how to get a piece of this booming business.

What You Will LearnThe course offers the need-to-know information for success. It covers the latest research on the market, how to reach brides and grooms, and provides specific product information on ho-tels, resorts and destinations. Sponsors include Barceló Ho-tels & Resorts, Dreams Resorts & Spas, Secrets Resorts & Spas, Holiday Inn SunSpree Resort Aruba, Holiday Inn Sun-Spree Resort Montego Bay, Jamaica All-Inclusive.

Course OutlineChapter One: The Honeymoon, Romance and Destination Wedding MarketChapter Two: Romance DestinationsChapter Three: Marketing Romance

graduate Benefits• Honeymoon & Destination Wedding Specialist diploma

and exclusive use of a Honeymoon & Destination Wed-ding Specialist logo, immediately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.



LUxURY TRAVEL SpECIALIST 2.0

The Luxury Travel Specialist 2.0 looks at the dream mar-ket for so many agents and how gaining the expertise and know-how to service the rich can give you staying power in a fickle economy.

What You Will LearnReach the type of travelers that require the best when they

travel, and can bring the top commissions to you. This catego-ry specialist course gives you an understanding of luxury trav-elers and the upscale products they desire in lodging, cruise lines, spas, FITs, tour companies, airlines and car rentals. The course instructs you on where you can find the affluent and how to develop relationships that will lead to big-ticket sales. Sponsors include Excellence Group Luxury Resorts, Secrets Resorts & Spas, Dreams Resorts & Spas, Mandarin Oriental Hotel Group and CIE Tours International.

Course OutlineChapter One: The Luxury MarketChapter Two: Selling Luxury ProductsChapter Three: Marketing Luxury

graduate Benefits• Luxury Travel Specialist diploma and exclusive use of

a Luxury Travel Specialist logo, immediately download-able to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.



SpA AND gOLF CATEgORY SpECIALIST

This category specialist course focuses on the two niche markets of Spa and Golf. Each one can easily be sold sepa-rately, but they are often available together at the same re-sort. Whether you sell a vacation with the single focus of either niche, or you package a spa or golf day as an add-on, you need to learn how to sell both golf and spa.

What You Will LearnThe course explores each market, explaining the various types of spas and the golf jargon that will help you sell. List-ings of top spas and golf resorts help you know what type of products are available. A chapter on marketing gives you the tools to capture spa and golf clients.

Course OutlineChapter One: The Spa MarketChapter Two: The Golf MarketChapter Three: Marketing to Spa & Golf Travelers

graduate Benefits• Spa & Golf Category Specialist diploma and exclusive

use of a Spa & Golf Category Specialist logo, immedi-ately downloadable to use to promote your expertise as a Specialist to clients.



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DESTINATIONS THE ISLANDS OF THE BAHAmAS SpECIALIST

CHENgDU SpECIALIST

CURACAO INNER CIRCLE

LEARN ABOUT DUBAI SpECIALIST

EgYpT SpECIALIST

EL SALVADOR SpECIALIST

EUROpEAN QUARTET SpECIALIST

VISIT FINLAND SpECIALIST

HONDURAS SpECIALIST

JApAN. ENDLESS DISCOVERY.

JORDAN TRAVEL SpECIALIST

mAgIC OF mExICO SpECIALIST

mExICO CATEgORY SpECIALIST

pHILIppINES SpECIALIST

pUERTO RICO TRAVEL ExpERT

SEAWORLD pARkS & ENTERTAINmENT

SpECIALIST

SOUTH AFRICA FUNDI

SOUTHERN AFRICA SpECIALIST

THAILAND gOLDEN AgENT SpECIALIST

UNITED STATES VIRgIN ISLANDS

TRAVEL SpECIALIST

CRUISES CCL UNIVERSITY

CRUISE BALTIC NORTHERN EUROpE SpECIALIST

HOTELS/RESORTS BAYmONT INN & SUITES SpECIALIST

HAWTHORN SUITES BY WYNDHAm SpECIALIST

HOLIDAY INN RESORTS ARUBA & JAmAICA

SpECIALIST

HYATT TRAVEL SpECIALIST

RAmADA WORLDWIDE SpECIALIST

WINgATE BY WYNDHAm HOTEL SpECIALIST

WYNDHAm HOTELS & RESORTS SpECIALIST

WYNN LAS VEgAS AmBASSADOR

SERVICES AppLE VACATIONS AgENT SpECIALIST

AVIS SpECIAL AgENT

BUDgET SmART AgENT

NICHES CRUISE CATEgORY SpECIALIST

FAmILY TRAVEL CATEgORY SpECIALIST

HONEYmOONS AND DESTINATION

WEDDINg 3 SpECIALIST

LUxURY TRAVEL SpECIALIST 2.0

SpA AND gOLF CATEgORY SpECIALIST

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2011 Course Catalog - Travel Agent Academy

Documents

Transcript of 2011 Course Catalog - Travel Agent Academy