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There’s nothing like a great meal to bring people together! Your ideal experience may be sitting down to dinner at a Michelin starred restaurant in Paris, sampling myriad street foods while strolling the lanes of Southeast Asia, or toasting and tasting your way through the South African Winelands. No matter what culinary adventure you hunger for, our team of expert travel advisors is here to make sure that your travel menu is perfectly planned!

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The global calendar is full of special events that travelers around the world dream of attending. No matter what experience is at the top of your travel wish list, our expert team has the contacts and relationships needed to make your dream a reality. Whether it’s arranging for passes to prestigious sporting events such as Wimbledon or the Olympics, getting you into the front row at Fashion Week, or planning an itinerary around a yearly festival like La Tomatina or the Edinburgh Military Tattoo, we’re here to make sure that you have all your tickets in hand to ensure the perfect trip!

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While many sportsmen and women find it easy to grab their clubs and head off for a day on the fairways when at home, planning a round while traveling is a bit more involved. Let our expert team of travel advisors help set up tee times, club rentals and even private instruction for your next dream golf outing. Whether you’re a novice golfer looking for a one-off round at a famous course or you’re an avid lifelong player planning a golf-centric itinerary, we’re here to help plan a trip you’ll never FORE-get!

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Special interest travel, planning service, our service includes the below:.

• Personalized travel itinerary designed for your unique preferences and style
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Whether you’re looking to conquer the iconic golf courses of the world, taste and tour your way through the top vineyards, or enjoy destination spas on a regular basis, our concierge team can help you map out a lifetime of experiences catered to your own special interests.

River Oaks Travel was professional, knowledgeable, and extremely helpful – both before and during our vacation. Their planning was organized and first-rate – a real accomplishment because I was not at ALL organized. And when we encountered travel difficulties due to a weather delay, ROTC was ready and able to rebook us on a route that delayed us only about two hours (which was remarkable, considering the airline wanted us to wait 24 hours for the next plane to our destination). Moreover, when I had small, simple questions while traveling, my travel advisor responded immediately every time. At ROTC, service continues throughout the vacation – not just in the planning stages.

Katherine B.

Why work with our agency for your next vacation, we’re your personal concierge.

We understand that every traveler has different priorities when planning their perfect vacation, so our travel advisor team gets to know you (and your interests!) in order to create personalized itineraries and experiences just for you. Whether your ideal trip includes tasting your way through various cuisines or cheering on your favorite athlete, we’re here to make sure that your trip is perfectly planned for you!

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In a world where a few hours on the internet can get you a hotel room and a flight, our River Oaks Travel team brings a more personal, VIP experience to travel planning. Thanks to our network of luxury travel partners around the world, we are able to do things for you that those internet sites simply can not. Whether it’s getting you a credit to be used at the spa, having a daily gourmet breakfast included with your stay, or upgrading you to a room with a view of the course, we make the unexpected expected, every day.

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Let’s face it, the last thing you want to worry about on your vacation time is your vacation! Our expert travel advisors understand this, and stay on top of all the details before, during, and after your travels. You can rest easy knowing that we’ve got your back if you run into any snags while traveling, be it flight delays, lost luggage, or simply running late. So, sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride!

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While our office is local, our relationships are global! Our network of travel partners are an extension of our team, and these connections open the doors for unique experiences you won’t find elsewhere. From organizing front row seats to your favorite designer’s show at Fashion Week to securing that hard to arrange reservation at the newest Michelin starred eatery in London, our team is here to make your travel dreams come true!

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Special Interest Travel

Special interest travel allows you to choose a theme for your experience. Whether you are a yoga fanatic, a wine enthusiast, adventure seeker or an animal enthusiast, WorldTravelService® offers exciting special interest tour packages for everyone. Contact us today to begin planning your adventure.

Special Interest Travel Themes

Special interest tour programs can have an educational or scientific theme or they can be more general with a special interest activity.  For example, a journey through Mexico with rafting as a special interest. You will not spend your entire trip rafting, however, you will be grouped with people who enjoy rafting and spend part of your trip rafting through the rivers of Mexico. Or you can choose a trip with an educational special interest experience, such as viewing and learning about all of the monuments in Washington, D.C. WorldTravelService® has a tour package for everyone.

Special Interest Yoga Retreats

Yoga retreats are becoming increasingly popular. Travelers use this as an opportunity to “un-plug” and get away from the everyday monotony of life. Retreats vary, but typically guests can expect at least three main yoga classes throughout the day as well as hiking and swimming. Guests can also choose to indulge in spa treatments for the total relaxation package. WorldTravelService® offers special interest retreats all over the world, below are a few pictures from a yoga retreat at Amangiri.

All-Inclusive Packages for Special Interest Travel

WorldTravelService® offers all-inclusive special interest vacation packages. These packages are great because they take away the stresses of having to research and then check rates for lodging, meals, and attractions. All-inclusive packages eliminate guesswork and the need to “stay on budget.” There is just one affordable price that includes all airfare, hotel, food, drinks, and extras. There are no surprises when it comes to our special interest travel all-inclusive packages.

Group Tour Vendors and Destinations

WorldTravelService® works with the best of the best when it comes to special interest tour guides and excursion experts. A few of our vendors such as, Abercrombie & Kent, Brendan Vacations, Collette Explorations and Great Safaris, are experts when it comes to special interest travel. WorldTravelService® can recommend and book just the right tour for you. We book tours to:

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Special Interest Group Travel

Uniquely Designed Itineraries as Special as Your Group

Planning a customized vacation package suitable for your group is very complex. It requires a lot more than selecting dates and a destination. Carol’s Travel has been a leader in the development and execution of custom group travel since 1980. These land based tours are carefully tailored to your groups’ special passion or interest. We create them to be a unique vacation experience that delivers value, insider knowledge and excellent customer service. We blend the highlights of a region into an itinerary that is focused on the special interest of the group – at times bringing you off the beaten path. Our goal with special interest travel is to develop a customized tour that will deliver an itinerary full of special activities and sights to stimulate excitement and wonderful memories.

Designing, promoting and delivering a carefully planned custom tour requires expertise. Carol’s Travel has the know-how, the creative experience, and the practical insight you need. When it comes to custom group tours, we have a wealth of knowledge. We possess valuable contracts, negotiating skills, important contacts and behind-the-scenes expertise. Our coordination and management of your group will be detailed, organized, and seamless. All of our endeavors are tailored to meet the unique requirements of your organization. We work in tandem with you to ensure that we meet your objectives. Our focus is fixed on doing anything and everything to ensure the trip’s success and rave reviews.

Examples of Customized Group Tours

• China Cultural & Shopping Tour
• Mysteries of Machu Picchu
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• Country Gardens of England
• The Culinary Highlights of Italy
• Bordeaux, a Passion for Wine
• Palaces on the Rhine
• Spiritual Highlights of the Holy Land
• Eat, Love, Pray
• Architecture of Spain, Gaudi and Beyond

Contact Carol Lekki to ask how Carol’s Travel Service can help you transform a travel dream into a cherished memory. There is no substitute for our impeccable planning, responsive service and proven group travel expertise.

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9 Different Types of Travel Agents

Posted on June 24, 2022

Categories Travel

There are three main categories of travel agents: business, special interest, and leisure, and they fall into six types. These are:

• Global distribution systems
• Online travel agents
• Guest information centers
• Hotel and concierge agents
• Inbound tour operators
• Independent travel agents

Remember when we had to go to a travel agency and sit for a long time to book a trip or a tour? Those days are long gone. There are travel agents just about anywhere, from online to hotels and even independent agents. 

Some people think they don’t need a travel advisor until their plans begin to go awry. Plus, tour operators need them. Travel agents were and still are relevant today. Let’s look at the different types of travel agents, their role, and their relevance.

Types of Travel Agents

Here are the six different types of travel agents:

Global Distribution Systems

One of the many ways that tourists can get their travel needs met is through a global distribution system. A corporation manages the computerized network system, which makes online reservations possible through the facilitation of transactions. 

Global distribution systems will be used by both online and offline agents to reserve current travel experiences at a certain location. The most popular global distribution helps you boost your digital delivery and acquire more bookings. 

These systems want to cooperate with tour operators who make their activities and excursions available for convenient internet booking. The majority of global distribution systems rely on real-time inventory from service providers.

Online Travel Agents

A web-based system where tourists may organize and make travel arrangements straight from their internet sites is known as an online travel agency (OTA). They depend on the simplicity and comfort of the Internet to construct bundles for their customers.

As a result, a growing number of vacationers are searching for the best ways to plan all-inclusive vacations that cover everything from transportation to lodging and activities.

Travel and tour companies can expand their digital delivery by building ties with online travel agents. A commission can be earned by utilizing an online booking system, which enables online travel agents to book directly with you and receive compensation.

Centers for Tourist Information

A tourist information station is a one-stop store where tourists may buy souvenirs and get free advice on things to do, places to stay, maps, and other useful information about the area. With this, they are a popular location for tourists who are new to the area and want to learn more about the local culture.

Tourist information centers, which are frequently run by local governments, confer legitimacy on the advice and assistance they provide.

If you want your local tourist information center to book your trips and activities for you, let them know. As a result, they’ll be more likely to spread the word about your products.

Independent Travel Agents

For most passengers, independent travel agencies are the preferred retail travel agents.

To incorporate travel experiences that their clientele is interested in, travel agents, whether offline or online, want to tailor the itinerary they provide for them.

You may enhance your online distribution by working with individual travel agencies and utilizing distribution technology entities. To make it easier for agents to promote your service.

The commission percentages for independent travel agents will vary from one agent to the next. Between 15% and 25% is typical for independent agencies that schedule your events.

Organizers of Outbound Tours

Inbound tour operators, are regarded as specialists in a certain location and are aware of the best excursions and activities in the area. 

Working with these advisors to sell your products is advantageous because they advocate these outings to their clientele. They are more likely to recommend safe, exciting trips that are simple to book if they have worked with them before.

Travel Agent Categories

Here are the three travel agent categories:

1. Business Travel Agents

Work or business-related travelers. This group of commuters heads to and from work every day from their homes.

Commuters need to concentrate on efficiency and timeliness when they travel. It’s not uncommon for business travelers to plan their entire journey around a single event or meeting. 

To stay productive when traveling, they chose workstations in the hotel rooms with high-speed web access. To make things easier, guests should be able to walk or use public transportation to and from their place of business.

Openings for Travel Agents

Business tourism is a multi-trillion-dollar industry, and travel agents may capitalize on this opportunity. Every day, up to 1.1 million individuals in the United States travel for work. This group of tourists is looking for a hassle-free journey. As a result, you’ll be called upon.

Travelers on business trips prefer to concentrate on their job rather than on the details of their journey. An excellent opportunity to select a hotel room with luxuries that will let the client forget they are even outside their hometowns is presented by the travel agent. As a result, understanding what a booking system is and how to utilize it effectively is critical.

Breakfast in the am, espresso in the foyer, and a fitness center are among the amenities that business travelers look for while they’re on the road for long periods. If your team manages to arrange appropriate lodging for a business traveler, you’ll have a satisfied and productive customer.

To get to and from work, commuters are more likely to be on the road. Loyalty programs are a terrific way to keep customers coming back to your business over and over again. Travelers will want to utilize your firm more often as their royalties grow, which will keep them invested in your brand.

In the event you play your chips properly as a travel agent and schedule hundreds of trips for a corporation, there are risks involved. But if something goes awry, it may suddenly turn from countless business visits to booking for one firm to none. In the travel agency industry, you need to be aware of the potential dangers.

Whenever it comes to corporate travel, there is no margin for error, since most appointments may not wait for a tardy attendee. Before the start of the project, everything must be planned out and accounted for. If the client is late for a business meeting, the meeting may be canceled, resulting in lost revenue, time, and labor for the business traveler.

If you’re going on a trip, it’s important to think about possible health concerns. A business vacation is not a time to put off illness, accidents, or catastrophes. You may want to recommend that the company purchase Business Travel Accident (BTA) insurance to fully safeguard the firm’s travelers.

The traveler must be satisfied if your travel agency provides a journey that emphasizes punctuality and convenience.

2. Special Tourism Agents

This type of travel caters to the interests and desires of the individual traveler. When it comes to special interest tourism, the goal is to get an exceptional experience that directly relates to the preferences of the traveler.

Special interest travelers have a wide range of features, as they are all based on the preferences of the individual traveler. There are a wide number of possibilities, including gourmet tours, religious travel, cultural trips, and more. 

The underlying denominator among these travelers is a great passion for something and a desire to travel the world to further explore this obsession.

Determine the purpose of the trip – Is it to unwind and relax? Is the purpose of this journey to learn and grow? Is the goal to see as many of the big tourist destinations as possible? Accommodations can be made once the purpose of the trip has been determined.

Create tour offers that will pique your client’s interest when it comes to customizing a trip for them. Packages appeal to special interest visitors since they are cost-effective and focus on what they want to see and do.

An adventure package is a traditional special-interest package. All of the area’s top places to visit would be included in this itinerary. People who are willing to take risks will be drawn to your website if you offer zip-lining, whitewater rafting, and rock climbing. You can guarantee that your consumers will have the vacation of a lifetime if you provide them with the most exciting options.

A rapidly growing segment of the travel industry is wellness tourism. These tours are specifically designed to focus on health, focusing on both physical and emotional well-being. 

Travel companies will make reservations for these customers based on their preferences for health and well-being, including staying in hotels with exercise facilities, eating at restaurants with organic options, and staying in places with plenty of greenery.

A travel agent may be contacted by someone in need of medical treatment. Because the patient doesn’t live in an area where medical aid is needed, medical tourism is a necessity. 

In any case, the patient already has a lot on their plate, and they don’t want the excessive strain of travel or hotel reservations on top of everything else. The treatment isn’t accessible in their homeland, or there may be better doctors abroad.

Due to needing to function as the liaison between the customer and the many tour operators, excursions, and activities, there is some risk for travel agents. Because of this, many people rely on the services of travel host agencies.

The client has placed their trust in you and your organization, and this is where tour operators come into play. The customer will come to you if something turns out badly.

Therefore, keep communication open between the two of you. To serve your customers with the highest service, you should have a list of organizations you can rely on.

To avoid a last-minute withdrawal from either side, you should plan . You should specify the dates by which cancellations are accepted and whether or not there will be a fee for doing so. There must be no misunderstandings when the day of the scheduled events approaches if you provide all the relevant information.

Unexpected medical concerns are another issue for tourists with specialized interests. Terrible events might occur when a trip is centered on being adventurous, tasting new foods, or getting medical treatment done.

Travel insurance is the right strategy to avoid any potential issues. This will protect your traveler in the event of an emergency, but ideally, it will never be needed.

3. Travel Agencies for the Leisure Traveler

Travelers who want to get away from the daily grind. Those that travel for leisure are more concerned about having fun and having a good time.

People who go on vacation tend to be alone or with a small group of relatives and friends. All of these tours are geared toward leisure, exploration, and fun.

There are several aspects of a leisure trip that include eating at fine restaurants, staying in luxury hotels, lounging by the pool or beach, and seeing tourist attractions.

Those who prefer a more authentic travel experience, however, may choose to backpack around a new location, overnight in hostels, steer clear of the most popular tourist attractions, and learn about the history and culture of the place they’re visiting. Online travel agencies can only provide this level of service.

There are numerous options for the travel agent to personalize a client’s journey while they are going for pleasure. An experienced traveler can help you get the most out of your vacation.

With a cruise, you don’t have the burden of choosing your itinerary, so you can relax and unwind. In one transaction, a cruise provides transportation, meals, amusement, and a place to stay. If a family is looking for a getaway from their bustling daily routine, this kind of trip is an excellent option.

In most cases, a customer will know where they want to go, but they will need assistance working out how to fill their days. A seasoned traveler can provide their recommendations for the must-see attractions, the best restaurants, and fun activities for the entire group. To ensure that your customers get the most value for their money, your travel firm can put together a well-thought-out itinerary.

When the word “leisure” is used, the first thing that comes up is sitting by a pool, reading a book, and wearing floppy hats. Travel agents that can propose a variety of resorts to potential customers are more likely to get the best deal. Travelers will love a hotel that is located close to a beautiful beach, has an on-site spa, and has a fitness facility.

There are few risks involved in working with leisure visitors. If something goes wrong, it usually doesn’t have a major impact on the holiday because the timetable is so slack.

There is an increasing trend for clients to submit evaluations on web forums. Internet sites like TripAdvisor make it easy for customers to sing your firm’s praises while also calling it out when it makes a mistake in the public eye.

Image and reputation may be ruined in a matter of minutes thanks to the power of the internet, and dissatisfied consumers are quick to spread the word.

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Special Interest Group Travel

Terraffinity is our division focused on creating, implementing, and delivering travel solutions for special interest groups..

At our core, we at Terraficionados are complex travel problem solvers.

In many cases, the kinds of travel experiences we provide for our travellers are very challenging to execute – solving transportation logistics in remote areas; sourcing authentic accommodation, with character, yet still providing wonderful comforts; providing access to and engagement with subject matter experts on obscure topics… the list goes on!

We have the horsepower and the tools to address these challenges, and deliver life-changing trips for our leisure travel clients. We apply these same capabilities, leveraging the same infrastructure, to address the challenges and needs of Special Interest Groups searching for travel solutions.

Terraffinity is the fastest growing part of our business.

Our growth is fuelled by the great work we do, and ultimately supported by a core of wonderful organizations with whom we’ve had the pleasure of working for a number of years on challenging and highly rewarding travel programs for their members and constituents.

Click here for a summary of some of the Special Interest Group travel programs we’ve developed.

We look forward to partnering with you.

If you are part of a Special Interest Group that is looking for a highly capable travel partner please reach out to us – we are eager to help and we are certain we can be an asset for you.

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Six of the best specialist travel companies

Updated on August 9 by Mark Hodson

If you want a special travel experience, you should try one of the these specialist travel companies.

As the big names in travel increasingly dominate the market, it’s easy to forget the little guys – the small independent operators that stick to a single destination and know it inside out.

Many of these companies are owned and managed by true enthusiasts, who can take you beyond the brochure clichés to an authentic and unspoilt part of the country. Here are six of the best.

Best for Italy: Bellini Travel

Who they are: founder Emily FitzRoy provides insider tours of Italy, getting under the skin of the country and offering unique experiences. She works with only about 70 clients a year.

Why they’re good: Bellini can achieve what might appear to be impossible, whether it’s a royal box at La Scala or a private evening visit to the Sistine Chapel. But it’s not all glitz: FitzRoy knows Venice backwards and enjoys taking clients off the tourist trail to trattoria in the working class district of Cannareggio and to eat seafood at fishermen’s huts on the lagoon.

Best for Greece: Travel à la Carte

Who they are: founded in 1979 by Tony Wells and his late wife Mary, it is one of the last remaining family-owned holiday specialists to the Mediterranean. It has survived by focusing on small islands including Symi, Halki and Paxos.

Why they’re good: with two directors living year-round in Greece, Travel à la Carte knows its islands intimately and provides great customer service (it claims a client satisfaction rating of 9.9 out of 10). With no charter flights to sell, it can also offer total flexibility on arrival and departure dates.

Best for Japan: Inside Japan Tours

Who they are: founders Alastair Donnelly and Simon King met at university, worked as English teachers in Japan then decided to set up a specialist travel company. They offer private travel, group tours and self-guided tours for all budgets.

Why they’re good: the core team all speak Japanese, travel regularly to the country and have great local contacts – handy if you want to enter the Tokyo Marathon or arrange an evening with a geisha in Kyoto. They provide honest expert advice and go the extra mile. For one client staying at a luxury hotel in Tokyo, they hand-delivered gluten-free soy sauce from Nagoya, a round trip of 600 miles.

Best for America: Bon Voyage

Who they are: US fanatics Alan Wilson and Alan Orsmond started the company as a specialist travel agency in the late 1970s then focussed on creating their own tours to America.

Why they’re good: the company only employs staff that have lived or travelled extensively in the States and share the founders’ love of the country. Knowledgable sales staff combined with keen pricing keep the clients coming back.

Best for India: Greaves

Who they are: founded in 1973, Greaves is a family-owned company that offers private escorted tours of the Indian subcontinent. Managing director Mehra Dalton campaigns actively for sustainable tourism and is co-founder of Jaisalmer in Jeopardy.

Why they’re good: travel in India can be – shall we say – unpredictable. Greaves has a reputation for total reliability, ensuring every client is met on arrival with a private car and chauffeur, and ironing out every detail of every trip.

Best for Croatia: Completely Croatia

Who they are: founder Alison Jago spent 20 years in the travel industry before deciding her employers were getting it wrong and she could do better on her own. Completely Croatia specialises in small boutique properties and family-run hotels neglected by the larger tour operators.

Why they’re good: clients enjoy the personal service, with the same consultant dealing with them at every stage from initial enquiry to post-holiday follow-up. Good relations with hoteliers mean lots of free upgrades and surprise extras. Jago claims to have had just one customer complaint in five years of operation.

Images of Venice, Tokyo and India by Mark Hodson

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israel vacation rentals says

September 14 at 3:03 pm

Thank you for the info I’m traveling a lot and will certainly check one of the companies here.

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Who’s Booking Trips With Travel Agents Nowadays? The 3 Types of Travelers

Up until the internet rocked the travel industry in the early 2000’s, people relied heavily on travel agents to plan and book their trips. The introduction of online booking meant that suddenly, all different types of travelers could research, plan, and book trips on their own.

As online booking became simpler to navigate and more consumer-oriented, people came to rely on travel agents less frequently. But times are a-changin’ and these days, travel agents are making a comeback in a major way. 

Sure, people can still opt to book their own trips online. However, the services that travel agencies provide are undoubtedly more useful than ever. In a world of ever changing travel protocols, hectic airline schedules, and limited space in hotels, it isn’t as easy as it once was for travelers to handle everything on their own.

That said, travel agencies are still a misunderstood bunch. There are certain people who may be reluctant to shell out cash for something they think they can do themselves. 

Understanding how to market a travel agency starts with learning what types of travelers are booking with travel agents, so you can segment the market and cater to your customers accordingly.

Check out our list of the 3 types of travelers booking trips with travel agents nowadays. 

1. Silver travelers

We touched on some of the changes the travel industry underwent with the shift to internet-based operations, but older travelers still have a serious influence on different travel agencies and tourism as a whole. 

With a lot of disposable income and free time on their hands, silver travelers are a major target audience for travel businesses.

A study by Deloitte found that travelers ages 65 and up were more likely than the overall average to use travel agent services. This is likely due to the fact that this generation has always used travel agents and never stopped, even when online bookings became more popular.

And as it goes with various personas in your target audience, marketing to senior travelers is different from marketing to millennials. To help you tailor your offerings and marketing to silver travelers, let’s unpack some of the reasons that they are one of the main types of travelers to use travel agencies today:

• Family fun for everyone : It is not unusual for senior travelers to travel with multiple members of their families, which means big groups of people of different ages traveling together. Handling booking every aspect of a trip for large groups can be daunting to handle on your own, so this target audience segment often leans on travel agencies to help.
• Package bookings: Senior travelers often opt for booking vacations that include many different destinations or activities like cruises or resort vacations. They tend to prefer guided tours and other types of pre-planned and pre-booked activities. 
• Peace and quiet: Older travelers prioritize comfort in their travels, every step of the way. They want to have peace of mind that things will go smoothly and that they won’t have to worry about unexpected changes. By using a travel agent, even in the case of the unexpected, they know they have someone to help. From travel insurance to accommodations, silver travelers want to have everything settled in advance so they can kick back, relax, and enjoy the ride.

2. Luxury travelers

The global luxury travel market size reached $2 Billion in 2021 and is expected to continue at an annual growth rate of 4.97% between 2022-2027 . 

Luxury travel can mean different things to different people and is an ever-evolving concept. Where luxury travel once meant high-end resorts, today it also includes things like one-of-a-kind experiences and self-improvement. 

Luxury travel experiences are no longer reserved for the ultra-wealthy, so to understand how to best market a travel agency to the modern luxury traveler, you will need to segment the demographics. 

Millennials 

A 2018 study by IBT Berlin and IPK International found that more than half of international luxury travel is done by millennials. Millennials are known for valuing experiences over “things” and they are willing to spend money on travel. 

Unlike senior travelers, millennials tend to plan their travel plans with the help of technology. They often browse the web for information about the location they are traveling to and look for a seamless digital booking experience. 

Because the internet is so vast, it can be hard to comb through so much information to find the right fit for things like hotels, restaurants, and activities, which is where travel agencies come in. In order to appeal to millennial luxe travelers, a steady stream of social media content will help grab their attention. Once you have intrigued them, using a travel agency ERP system will help provide the digital experience they are looking for. 

Gen X and Baby Boomers

The more traditional luxury traveler demographic includes Gen X and baby boomers. These travelers are generally looking for a tried and true experience, which includes fine dining and highly rated accommodations. Much like senior travelers, they tend to take multi-generational trips, but Gen X has been shown to spend more on vacations than older generations.

Unlike millennials who are looking for new experiences, this demographic usually has set travel preferences. These travelers also often have extra money to spend on the planning process and would rather hand over the responsibility to a trusted travel agency than handle all of the details themselves. 

3. Special interest travelers

Special interest tourism caters to a specific interest of a traveler or groups of travelers. The goals of special interest travel include self-expression and a desire to learn and enrich one’s life. By moving away from “mass tourism” and towards special interest tourism, these travelers hope to better satisfy their individual desires and interests via unique experiences. 

Some examples of special interest tourism include:

• Food tourism
• Adventure tourism
• Sports tourism
• Nature tourism
• Religious or spiritual tourism
• Health tourism

The special interest tourism market is set to reach $3.5 billion in 2022 ! This is because there is virtually an endless number of niche special interest categories that travelers are interested in.  

Because these travelers are looking for such a specific type of vacation, they tend to prefer planning and booking in advance. They are also looking to include multiple activities and attractions and appreciate the option to book packages since they are more cost-effective. 

There is no doubt that the travel industry is hotter than ever and travel agencies have an opportunity to thrive in this environment. Leveraging new technology like travel agency ERP systems combined with the irreplaceable human touch of agents with years of experience makes booking with a travel agency more logical than ever. 

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Special interest travel groups require special attention, be it a tour focused on the British presence in Malta or an in-depth exploration of the Order of the Knights of St John. We will provide a complete event management service, from out-of-the-box idea creation to meticulous on-site execution. Apart from handling logistics, we can source the best services and products to exceed your expectations and provide a noteworthy experience! Alpine Sterling DMC is also the local partner for the Student Travel Agents Network, STAN.

Culture and Religion

Performance, youth and education, individual leisure travel, cultural and religious groups in malta.

Exploring the Maltese Islands with us is as close to time-travel as one can get. We have a rich culture, in which both religion and history play an important role. Malta is home to three UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the city of Valletta, the Megalithic Temples and the Ħal Saflieni Hypogeum.We build programs based on your specific interests to offer an immersive religious or historic experience of the Maltese Islands.

Special Interest Sports Groups

Organising team events has numerous benefits, such as building team spirit and creating time for focused training and competition. With excellent sports facilities to keep your team in top shape, as well as lots of activities to create a memorable experience for each and every member, we can create an exceptional program for all kinds of sports groups. We also provide local team opposition and co-ordinate fixtures for youth, adult and veteran teams.

Special Interest Performance Groups

The rich artistic and cultural heritage inherent to the Maltese Islands make it the perfect destination for performance groups. With 365 ornate churches and cathedrals, exquisite outdoor venues with breathtaking views, and the ability to perform in unique locations, Malta offers an exciting opportunity for performers to share their talents with new audiences.

Youth and Educational Travel

In addition to providing special interest group travel services, we are also the local partner representing the European STAN network. With years of experience working within the education sector, we organise specialised study programs for schools and universities, study tours and apprentice-style talks for students, bringing individuals from the private and public sector to deliver lectures relating to your subject of choice.

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“ From the moment we arrived the organization was superb. It was by far the best service I have seen in many years and everyone was extremely impressed. With nearly fifty of us and with many arriving and departing at different times it was a complex task and yet appeared truly relaxed. The result was all the members of the Royal Air Squadron agreeing that it was the best overseas trip they could remember. ” Dr The Hon. Gilbert Greenall The Royal Air Squadron

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Special-Interest Vacations in USA

Here's a sampling of companies that offer escorted adventures and tours, and some suggestions on where to go to enjoy your favorite activities.

Adventure-Travel Companies

Scores of "soft" and "hard" adventure-travel companies have sprung up in recent years. Most travel agents have catalogs that list upcoming trips. More than 500 different tour operators are represented in the Specialty Travel Index Online at www.specialtytravel.com . Another good source of up-to-date information is monthly Outside magazine, available in print and frequently updated online at http://outsidemag.com .

Mountain Travel -- Sobek (tel. 888/687-6235 or 510/594-6000; www.mtsobek.com) is perhaps the granddaddy of adventure-travel companies, guiding its own trips and acting as an agent for other outfitters. It began with river rafting, which is still its strong suit. Backroads (tel. 800/462-2848 or 510/527-1555; www.backroads.com) originally sold bicycle tours but now has walking, hiking, cross-country skiing, trail running, and other trips. It's especially noteworthy for having options catering to adults traveling solo. Bicycle Adventures (tel. 800/443-6060 or 360/786-0989; www.bicycleadventures.com) offers biking, hiking, and cross-country skiing, as well as other multisport options in the West Coast states, the Rocky Mountain states, and Hawaii. Tours are tailored to ability levels; some are designed for families, others for solo travelers. The venerable Sierra Club (tel. 415/977-5522; www.sierraclub.com) also offers a number of trips each year.

These and other operators plan their adventures at least a year ahead of time, so call or e-mail them for schedules and catalogs as far in advance as possible.

Note : This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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Special Interest Visitors Stay Longer, Spend More

Special interest markets for travel to South Africa are dynamic and growing. For agents, these niche markets can deliver disproportionately healthy returns. That’s because the economic impact of these relatively small markets far outweighs their numbers, according to those who specialize in these areas. “Special interest clients are inclined to stay longer and spend more than the average visitor,” said Andre Botha, marketing and sales director for the destination management company Trans Africa Safaris, a Virtuoso and Signature preferred supplier. This is true whether they travel in groups or as individuals. Demographic niche markets – notably gays and lesbians, African-Americans and multigenerational families – comprise the largest segment of special interest travelers to South Africa. Travelers with specific interests, including food and wine, photography and rail travel, make up the second largest segment of this market. To help travel agents identify the best opportunities in special interest travel to South Africa, Travel Market Report spoke with South Africa destination management companies and tour operators. Gay/Lesbian Travel Market size: “At least a quarter of a million gay and lesbian individuals or couples could travel to South Africa from the U.S. – if appropriately marketed to,” said Kenneth Heiber, president of Gay2Afrika, a division of 2Afrika. Who’s going: Well-traveled professionals, ages 30 to 60, predominate. Gay men make up the majority, as they travel more than lesbians generally, according to Joel Cabrera, co-founder of Zoom Vacations.

Couples rule the gay market, especially couples celebrating honeymoons, anniversaries, and birthdays. Single gay travelers tend to buy into pre-packaged gay groups, said Heiber, adding that he also sees singles traveling to South Africa to attend pride events. Gay families are a growing segment. “The gay and lesbian family unit is becoming stronger and stronger by the moment. They’re traveling to South Africa because there’s a high comfort level there toward gay and lesbian people, and it’s an enormously popular family destination,” Heiber said. Potential for agents: Both gay-focused companies, Gay2Afrika and Zoom Vacations, work closely with travel sellers; the gay market enjoys working through travel agents, Heiber said. Also, “the gay and lesbian market talks,” Heiber said, and that makes its word of mouth impact particularly strong. If one couple in a social circle jets off to South Africa and stays at a fabulous game lodge, they’ll tell everyone about it. “All of a sudden, everybody wants to go to that particular spot. Just because it’s in and Ken went there.” This “bragging rights” phenomenon is more prevalent in the gay and lesbian market than in the mainstream market, Heiber said. Tour choices: FIT vacations are preferred by 60% of the gay market,  Heiber said. Gay travelers’ destination and activity choices mirror those of mainstream travelers – safaris and Cape Town – sometimes with Victoria Falls add-ons. Vacations of 10 to 12 days are typical, with costs starting at $6,000 per person, or higher, Heiber said. Zoom Vacations’ 12-day pre-packed tour retails from $7,599, and many people extend their time, Cabrera said. Caveats: Don’t look at the gay market as a cash cow waiting to be milked, Heiber cautioned agents. Agents need to brand themselves as either openly gay or very gay-friendly to avoid this perception, he said. Agent education: A weekly online radio show called One Voice From Africa features Heiber’s insights into different aspects of South Africa vacations. Heiber will do special shows for individual agencies to educate its travel sellers. African-American Travel Market size: “The African-American market is enormous,” said Heiber, whose parent company 2Afrika frequently arranges group trips for African-American groups. One upcoming group for the Christian Cultural Center of Brooklyn has 65 participants. Who’s going: Groups and older middle-aged adults make up the bulk of African-American travel to South Africa, said Ndela Edwards, president of E-Z Tours. Cultural groups with church and fraternal organizations are most popular. Family groups are also popular, but not the reunion-style family groups often associated with African-Americans. Average age is 55 to 65, according to Edwards; children comprise just 4% of her passengers. Potential for agents: The African-American market is a great niche for travel agents, Heiber said. “Few people have taken the time nowadays to go to the African-American market and remind them that you can afford a trip to South Africa, then put something together.” Tour preferences: African-American group tours are typically culturally oriented and eight nights long, Edwards said. “Black Americans generally don’t travel just to see the big five,” she said. Popular tour destinations include: Johannesburg. Soweto and the Apartheid Museum; Cape Town and Robben Island; and the District Six Museum. Durban is also often requested, because of the Zulu people and the legend of Shaka Zulu.

Costs for an average E-Z African-American tour are about $3,500 per person, including air. Multigenerational Travel Market size: Multigenerational travelers are African Portfolio’s fastest-growing special interest market, according to Yvette De Vries, the destination management company’s senior consultant and African specialist. Who’s going: FIT vacations for multiple sets of two generations (i.e. siblings and their kids, cousins and their kids, etc.) or three generations, with grandparents frequently paying to bring their kids and grandkids on safari, are most common.  Potential for agents: Safari vacations and South Africa’s large variety of activities, providing something of interest to diverse family members, make the destination a good fit for multigenerational groups, De Vries said. Tour preferences: Because of budget constraints – one party often foots the bill – multigenerational tours tend to be slightly shorter than mainstream trips, averaging about 10 days. Budgets range from moderate to luxury.

Tours that include two to three destinations are typical, with flex days built in, so individuals can pursue their separate interests. The first two destinations typically are safari game lodges and Cape Town. Third destinations vary by interest; options include: the Blyde River Canyon, the Garden Route or the Northern Natal coastal beaches. Caveats: When choosing safari lodges for multigenerational groups, children’s ages must be considered, as some lodges don’t allow children and others are very child-friendly. Many require families with kids to pay extra for a private game vehicle. Building flexibility into itineraries is key. “Itineraries have to be structured so that everybody isn’t doing the same thing every minute of the day, because grandparents don’t want to be stimulated all the time, and grandkids can’t stand to listen to 10 minutes of a guide explaining something of historical interest, De Vries said.” Culinary and Wine Travel Market size: Some 300,000 to 350,000 people (sourced globally) visit South Africa every year with wine experiences as a major reason for their trips, according to Darren Humphreys, president of Travel Sommelier. Who’s going: Couples ranging in age from 25 to 49 predominate, while some older clients bring their families, Humphreys said. The 55-and-up market is also large for wine and culinary tourism, he added.

Few come for wine alone, but it is increasingly common to add on a significant number of days dedicated to visiting Cape Town and the wine region. “For these people, wine and culinary is not an addendum to a safari trip. It’s a bona fide goal of their trips,” Humphreys said. Potential for agents: Wine and culinary travel is the biggest niche growth market in South Africa, in Humphrey’s view. South Africa’s wine region is one of the most visually spectacular wine regions in the world; it produces great wines, and the number of top-quality restaurants there is growing. “Visitors are just as keen to learn about South African food, as they are to eat. That means cooking classes and meeting chefs.” Tour preferences: Ten days is the typical length of a Travel Sommelier itinerary, Humphreys said. Safaris usually constitute half to two-thirds of the trip, and Cape Town and the surrounding wine country the remainder. Wine-focused add-ons include VIP tastings, meet and greets with vintners and chefs, food/wine pairings, etc., and cost about $250 per person per day, not including accommodations. Agent education: Exploring the Wines of South Africa website (www.wosa.co.za) is the best way to learn, Humphreys said. The site includes product information, marketing materials and more, and agents can contact the site directly for additional help. Other Special Interest Markets Photography: Photography, as an added safari element is definitely a growing trend. “Photography is becoming a big special interest trip. Most lodges are offering specialist photography courses while on safari or specialist photographic guides to help people get the most out of their equipment,” said Natasha Smith, Africa manager for Africa Answers, a DMC. Luxury rail: Rail is another definite niche, said Trans Africa Safari’s Botha. “South Africa has two magnificent luxury rail experiences in the Blue Train and Rovos Rail. Both trains have a great reputation and are popular.”  Community engagement: Philanthropy and community engagement is another growing special interest, Botha said. “Clients are looking for life-enriching and educational experiences. It’s not just about the lovely hotels, lodges, restaurants and experiences, but also learning and interacting firsthand with the local, often impoverished, communities.”

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NV obtains new photos and videos of the elimination of traitorous ex-MP Ilya Kyva near Moscow

• Oops! Something went wrong. Please try again later. More content below

Photos and videos of the elimination of pro-Russian ex-MP Ilya Kyva in a Moscow suburb were obtained by NV from sources in Ukraine’s SBU Security Service on Dec. 11.

This special operation was meticulously planned and successfully executed, the SBU informant confirmed.

Read also: “Surrender for your own safety” advises Ukrainian intelligence to traitors

In one imgae, Kyva's lifeless body can be seen in the snow surrounded by bloodstains. The location where “deserved punishment awaited the traitor” is near the place that Kyva filmed many anti-Ukrainian videos, sources say.

Kyva was a high-priority target, SBU said. His daily routines, movements, and habits were extensively studied in the operation. Despite strong security, the SBU managed to eliminate him just outside Moscow.

“This [Kyva’s elimination] serves as a signal to all traitors and military criminals who have sided with the enemy. Remember: Russia will not protect you. Death is the only prospect awaiting enemies of Ukraine,” SBU Chief Vasyl Malyuk said.

Ukraine’s SBU eliminated Kyva in a special operation in Moscow Oblast on Dec. 6, said NV sources in the intelligence service.

Kyva's “bloodied body”, discovered with a shot through the head, was found in the park of an elite club hotel in the Moscow region on Dec.6, Russian propaganda Telegram channels reported.

Read also: Former Ukrainian MP and traitor Illia Kyva found dead in Moscow Oblast – NV sources

Kyva was shot with an unidentified firearm and died from the injuries on the scene, the Russian Investigative Committee claimed.

Kyva had fled to Spain ahead of Russia’s full-scale invasion. He then appeared in Russian propaganda broadcasts in Moscow, actively spreading lies about Ukraine. Kyva also sought “political asylum” and citizenship from the enemy aggressor.

The Ukrainian parliament stripped Kyva of his MP status in March 2022, charging him with treason. He was additionally charged with publicly calling for a violent change in the constitutional order and propaganda on behalf of the aggressor state in Aug. 2023.

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Read the original article on The New Voice of Ukraine

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Ford offers the new Mustang's updated 5.0-liter Coyote V8 as a crate engine, and it also sells a supercharger kit that unlocks a total of 810 horsepower.

The 10 car brands most expensive to maintain over 10 years

Consumer Reports' ranking of the most- and least-expensive vehicles sounds a concerning alarm bell about a few European brands.

Yankees manager Aaron Boone ejected after fan mouths off to home plate umpire

You don't see an ejection like this every day.

Arch Manning dominates in the Texas spring game, and Jaden Rashada enters the transfer portal

Dan Wetzel, Ross Dellenger & SI’s Pat Forde react to the huge performance this weekend by Texas QB Arch Manning, Michigan and Notre Dame's spring games, Jaden Rashada entering the transfer portal, and more

Pass or Fail: Broncos release 'Mile High Collection,' first new uniforms in over 25 years

The Broncos may have committed the greatest fashion faux pas there is: being boring.

Oakland University outfielders combine to make spectacular catch vs. Northern Kentucky

Oakland University outfielders John Lauinger and Reggie Bussey combined on what could be college baseball's best catch of the 2024 season against Northern Kentucky.

Robert Kraft reportedly warned Falcons owner Arthur Blank not to trust Bill Belichick during head coach interviews

Bill Belichick's former boss Robert Kraft reportedly tanked his chances of getting hired as the Falcons head coach.

Arch Manning puts on a show in Texas' spring game, throwing for 3 touchdowns

Arch Manning gave Texas football fans an enticing look at the future, throwing for 355 yards and three touchdowns in the Longhorns' Orange-White spring game.

A rare 'devil comet' will reach peak brightness this weekend. Here's how you can see it.

On Sunday, the rare devil comet will reach its closest point to the sun, creating an illuminating sky show. Here is how skygazers can watch it.

Tom Brady will be mercilessly mocked in Netflix's 'Greatest Roast of All Time' comedy special

Get ready for a lot of jokes about Tom Brady never eating strawberries and divorcing one of the most successful supermodels in history.

NBA Playoffs: Lillard sinks the Pacers, Celtics-Heat controversy, plus injury concerns for Kawhi & Embiid

Vincent Goodwill and Amin Elhassan react to (just about) every Round 1 game of the NBA Playoffs after the first games have been played over the weekend.