ASTA Association News

Ready-to-print itineraries -- for less than the cost of lunch

ASTA SmartBrief | Jan 05, 2009

Go the extra mile for every client with detailed itineraries, which cost only $5 each! Ready in PDF or Word format, these itineraries will help add the personal touch to every sale -- without wasting time and money. Discover what you're missing -- sign up online and receive a FREE sample itinerary from TripItineraries. Every itinerary comes complete with daily points of interest, destination highlights, weather, travel alerts and so much more.

Webinars on ASTA.org to keep you informed

ASTA SmartBrief | Jan 02, 2009

ASTA.org's eLibrary is an invaluable resource to your agency and career as a travel agent or tour operator. You can view past webinars that ASTA has hosted in case you missed them or would like to review them again, such as the most recent Government Affairs Webinar. Another valuable webinar, at popular request, teaches you about the many tools right at your fingertips on ASTA.org and how to use them. Take a quick tour and see which ones you can start to use today.

Suppliers: Space is limited for International Destination Expo

ASTA SmartBrief | Jan 02, 2009

Space is limited for International Destination Expo, March 8 to 11 in Sun City, South Africa. Reserve now to exhibit at the only show dedicated to training outbound U.S. travel agents to become destination specialists in South Africa. IDE provides exhibitors with the opportunity to meet with hundreds of qualified agents, all in one place. Reserve online or via e-mail today!

The Travel Agent's Management Toolkit has arrived

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 31, 2008

ASTA gives you the tools you need whether it's help writing a successful business plan or determining where your agency stands compared with the competition. The Travel Agent's Management Toolkit, sponsored by Best Western, combines the best of the Model Agency I and II programs and provides ASTA members with the essential tools to assist them in running their businesses in a more efficient and profitable way. Whether you're an agency owner or a manager or you run your own home-based business, you'll benefit from ASTA's latest member benefit. To download the toolkit, go to www.ASTA.org/education.

RSS feeds keep you up to date with ASTA

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 31, 2008

You can now subscribe to RSS feeds on ASTA.org. RSS, which stands for Really Simple Syndication, is an easy way to keep up with your favorite news and information. An RSS feed contains headlines, summaries and links to full news releases, member alerts and other content on ASTA.org. Although most people do not use a browser to view RSS feeds, you should download an RSS reader. An RSS reader will keep you updated, as long as the reader is running on your computer, with any updates that occur. You can even get an RSS feed to the WebExchange!

Travel agents: Added benefits of attending IDE

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 30, 2008

Attend the 2009 International Destination Expo (IDE) March 8 to 11 in Sun City, South Africa, and build added benefits long after the training has ended. The Specialty Travel Agents Association (STAA) will offer a complimentary one-year membership to all agents who complete the destination training courses at the IDE in South Africa. STAA began its partnership with ASTA in 2008, to offer this added benefit as a direct way of encouraging and assisting agents to build their specialty business. To register for the International Destination Expo, visit www.asta.org/ide.

Improving employee productivity

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 30, 2008

The most important thing you can do to improve employee productivity is to use regular performance reviews. Read this how-to guide to conducting constructive evaluations and learn vital tips and strategies to improve both individual performance and overall production for the company. Sample reviews are available online.

ASTA's Holiday YPS e-newsletter celebrates the holiday season

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 29, 2008

The latest edition of ASTA's Young Professional Society's quarterly e-newsletter focuses on the holiday season and its effect on the travel industry. Learn important holiday travel tips you can share with your clients, vital advice for renting cars during this busy time, and ideas for traveling with children. Also in this issue, Chairman Robbi Jumaa Hamida and this issue's featured Young Professional, Stephanie Lee, describe the importance of the holiday season in their lives and for the travel industry. YPS would like to thank its sponsors -- Thrifty, Universal Orlando® Resort and TravelAge West -- who truly believe in and understand the value of mentoring and grooming young people for our industry's future. The YPS e-newsletter is available for viewing here. For more information on YPS, e-mail yps@asta.org.

Find innovative ways to market your home-based business

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 29, 2008

Running a home-based business is not an easy venture. Look no further than ASTA for the marketing tips and tools you need to attract new clients and achieve growth in today's market. ASTA's Home-Based Marketing Guide provides you with fresh, new ways to promote your unique services to consumers and improve the way you do business.

TSA releases data definitions for airlines

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 26, 2008

ASTA and its allies at the Interactive Travel Services Association (ITSA) have worked directly with TSA to get the final data definitions for Secure Flight released. The data formats that the airlines will be required to follow when submitting Secure Flight data to TSA were posted online last week and can be found in the "Travel Agents" section here. However, the data formats that travel agents will use to transmit Secure Flight data elements through the GDSs to the airlines have not yet been formally released. It is anticipated that the airlines will require travel agents to use the IATA standard SSR DOCS field to submit full name, gender and date of birth.

Increase your business through ASTA's WebExchange

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 26, 2008

Have you heard about ASTA's online business-to-business tool WebExchange? This online marketplace, available exclusively to ASTA members, allows travel professionals to exchange information about business opportunities, post special requests and find specific industry information instantly and conveniently through postings on the WebExchange. To start taking advantage of this opportunity, click here.

Discounted flights for the International Destination Expo

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 24, 2008

Fly all the way from NYC or Washington, D.C., to Johannesburg, South Africa, for the International Destination Expo on Qatar Airways! Qatar offers convenient connecting service right into JNB with special IDE discounted fares starting as low as $690 plus tax. Check it out and register today for IDE in South Africa! To book, please call Camille Cimprich with the Qatar Airways Reservations staff at (312) 376-3020 or fax your request to (312) 376-3773. Mention that you are an ASTA IDE delegate traveling under ticketing code USAA001. Fares are valid from IAD and JFK. Find all airline discounts here on ASTA.org for attending IDE.

Save up to 30% on UPS shipping -- thanks to ASTA!

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 24, 2008

Take advantage of special savings on UPS shipping offered to you as a member of ASTA. You can save up to 30% on a portfolio of UPS air and international shipping services. All this with the peace of mind that comes from using the carrier that delivers more packages on time than anyone. Simple shipping! Special savings! It's that easy! For complete details or to sign up, simply click here. Or call (800) 325-7000.

ASTA gives you more

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 23, 2008

More than it did two years ago. Now there are 50 new online benefits such as special offers for travel agent members directly from the participants of ASTA's Tour Operator Program (TOP). Take advantage of exciting travel offers from the elite tour operators who participate in this exclusive program. Have peace of mind when working with a TOP member since all participants pledge to conduct their business with integrity, treat travel agents in a courteous and professional manner, and strive to perform to the travel agent's expectations. To view the current TOP specials, please click here.

Exclusive airfare to Johannesburg for International Destination Expo

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 23, 2008

Have you booked your flight to attend the International Destination Expo yet? Act now -- seats are limited! All attendees are eligible for discounted airfare starting at $599 round trip for the International Destination Expo (IDE) March 8 to 11, 2009! Call (800) 521-4845 to book this amazing deal with South African Airways. Find all airline discounts here on ASTA.org for attending IDE.

Delta discounts for International Destination Expo attendees

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 22, 2008

Delta Airlines is pleased to announce special travel agent airfare to Johannesburg, South Africa, starting as low as $599 round trip from New York and Washington, D.C., and $750 round trip from Atlanta for the International Destination Expo. All Delta reservations are handled by the Promotions Desks at (800) 325-1447. Please make sure to refer to promotion code G*857 AND the promotion name ASTA Travel Agent Expo -- LNDP. Find all airline discounts here on ASTA.org for attending IDE.

ASTA's holiday YPS e-newsletter celebrates the holiday season

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 22, 2008

The upcoming edition of ASTA's Young Professional Society's quarterly e-newsletter will focus on the holiday season and its effect on the travel industry. Learn about important holiday travel tips you can share with your clients, vital advice for renting cars during this busy time of year, and ideas for traveling with children, including ideas for kid-friendly destinations. Also in this issue, both the chairman, Robbi Jumaa Hamida, and this issue's featured young professional, Stephanie Lee, describe the importance of the holiday season in their lives and the travel industry. YPS would like to thank its sponsors -- Thrifty, Universal Orlando Resort, and TravelAge West -- who truly believe and understand the value of mentoring and grooming young people for our industry's collective future. The YPS e-newsletter will soon be available for viewing here. For more information on YPS, e-mail yps@asta.org.

Dealing with debit memos webinar

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 19, 2008

For ASTA members who missed the webinar last week on managing debit memos, the PowerPoint slides are available on the Video/Audio Library on ASTA.org. A recording of the full webinar, plus an expanded version of the questions asked by webinar participants, will be available at the beginning of January. Check out ASTA's industry calendar each month for upcoming webinars.

Travel agents: Limited-time offer to save $50 on IDE

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 19, 2008

Register by Dec. 21 to immediately save $50 and join your peers at the International Destination Expo March 8 to 11, 2009! This is the most affordable way to explore South Africa and gain expert skills on how to sell this profitable destination! Gain cutting-edge skills and tools through four days of education, networking with local suppliers, evening events, complimentary sightseeing and provincial packages. Attend this four-day conference and gain the resources to sell South Africa through comprehensive education, sightseeing and exclusive networking with local suppliers. Register online by Dec. 21 to receive the early-bird discount for the International Destination Expo. Hurry -- time is running out to receive this special rate!

ASTA's upcoming webinars

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 18, 2008

ASTA is working to provide you with the tools you need to become a better travel agent and business owner. Check out the upcoming webinars hosted by ASTA on topics ranging from debit memos to government regulations and stay up to date with the latest industry advice and information. Check out ASTA's industry calendar each month for upcoming webinars.

An alternative to layoffs: Work Share Programs

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 18, 2008

ASTA's legal department has put together yet another resource for you during these hard economic times on how to better run your business. Be sure to check out the newest white paper, Work Share Programs, which offers you as an employer an alternative to laying off your employees (available in 19 states). So before you panic about "restructuring" your business model, make sure you know all the options!

ASTA in the news

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 17, 2008

Check out ASTA's Green Program and consumer Web site, TravelSense.org, recently mentioned in a Tribune Media Services article on CNN.com: "It always pays to ask hotels exactly what they're doing to 'be green,' says Melissa Teates, the research director for the American Society of Travel Agents, which has developed a green program to better educate travel agents. Ask if the hotel uses 'green' cleaning products, she suggests. (Visit www.travelsense.org to find a travel agent who is a 'green' specialist.)" Read the full article titled "Making your family trips greener."

Cellhire gives ASTA members discounts!

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 17, 2008

Give your clients peace of mind while traveling abroad or throughout the United States, with Cellhire's wireless voice and data rentals. Each of Cellhire's solutions is tailored to meet the needs of your clients while being convenient and affordable. Your clients can stay in touch via phone, e-mail or Internet and take advantage of discounted rental rates. To learn how to sign up and earn commission, call (877) ASTA-447 or e-mail mktg@cellhire.com.

Travel agents: Expand in one of world's fastest-growing travel markets

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 16, 2008

Expand your business by becoming the South African expert at the International Destination Expo, March 8 to 11, 2009, in Sun City, South Africa -- the most valued industry event offering the resources you need to master the world's best-selling vacations. Gain expert skills and meet with local suppliers during the four-day educational program -- then choose from a variety of exciting provincial packages. Airfare discounts through South African Airways and Delta start at $599 round-trip. Register now and SAVE $50! Hurry! The early-bird rate expires on Dec. 21!

Suppliers: Meet hundreds of qualified agents in South Africa!

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 16, 2008

Have you reserved your exhibition stand to meet hundreds of qualified agents? Act now to exhibit at the 2009 IDE in South Africa. Reserve your stand at the only show dedicated to training outbound U.S. travel agents to become destination specialists in South Africa. Reserve at www.asta.org/exhibit or e-mail Kristen Stake at kstake@asta.org today!

Webinar: 2009 government regulations that travel agents must know

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 15, 2008

Join Paul Ruden, ASTA's senior vice president of legal and industry affairs, and Colin Tooze, ASTA's vice president of government affairs on Dec. 18 at noon EST to learn about next year's government regulations that will affect travel. Listen to ASTA's expert review the Secure Flight and Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) programs and find out how these programs will affect you and your customers. You will learn about the new Secure Flight data you will be required to solicit from customers in 2009. This seminar also will review the new online preauthorization program for Visa Waiver Program visitors that becomes mandatory on Jan. 12. Register here for this webinar, taking place on Dec. 18 at noon EST.

Webinar: Tips for weathering an economic downturn

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 15, 2008

Join John Pittman, ASTA's vice president of industry affairs, on Dec. 16 at 4 p.m. EST to get tips and resources you can implement immediately to help your business weather the economic downturn. Along with a presentation of case studies from travel agents like you, who have already taken creative approaches to shoring up their businesses, your questions will be answered and you will be shown tools you can find on ASTA.org to help you manage these financial times. Register here now to attend this webinar!

Celebrate the holidays with your chapter

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 12, 2008

Are you ready to celebrate the holidays? Just because the economy isn't at its best, it doesn't mean you shouldn't get together with your chapter and enjoy some holiday cheer. Check out the industry calendar on ASTA.org for all upcoming holiday parties! If you would like to add a travel agent event to the calendar and get the word out about YOUR chapter's holiday party (or any other travel event), simply click here and sign in, and a form will appear at the bottom of the screen for your event details.

Exhibitors: Save the date for THETRADESHOW 2009: Sept. 13 to 15

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 12, 2008

Reserve now to secure the best booth locations at THETRADESHOW 2009! Save the date for the top travel trade show in North America happening Sept. 13 to 15 in Las Vegas at the Las Vegas Convention Center. Visit www.thetradeshow.org, call (866) 870-9333 or e-mail exhibit@thetradeshow.org for more information or to reserve today.

Webinar: 2009 government regulations that travel agents MUST know

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 11, 2008

Join Paul Ruden, ASTA's senior vice president of legal and industry affairs, and Colin Tooze, ASTA's vice president of government affairs, on Dec. 18 at noon EST to learn about next year's government regulations that will affect travel. Listen to ASTA's expert review the Secure Flight and Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) programs and find out how these programs will affect you and your customers. You will learn about the new Secure Flight data you will be required to solicit from customers in 2009. This seminar also will review the new online preauthorization program for Visa Waiver Program visitors, called ESTA, that becomes mandatory on Jan. 12. Register here for this webinar, taking place on Dec. 18 at noon EST.

New Orleans fam trip for ASTA members only

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 10, 2008

Take advantage of this incredible offer to explore New Orleans any three days between now and Dec. 23 for only $40! Check out this incredible offer from the New Orleans Convention and Visitors Bureau here -- only available to ASTA members. You will be able to visit a Creole plantation, see a World War II memorial, take a cooking class and much more!

Are you ready to go to the International Destination Expo?

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 09, 2008

Did you know that you need two full blank pages in your passport in order to travel to South Africa? As you are preparing to head to ASTA's fourth annual International Destination Expo, March 8 to 11, 2009, in Sun City, South Africa, check out www.ASTA.org/expo for updates and travel ideas. Register before Dec. 21 and receive our early-bird discount for the International Destination Expo -- plus your choice of packages.

Getting there greener: The guide to your lower carbon vacation

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 09, 2008

The Union of Concerned Scientists (UCS) recently launched its new publication, Getting There Greener: The Guide to Your Lower Carbon Vacation. UCS researchers examined travel by motor coaches, trains, cars and SUVs, and airplanes to determine the carbon dioxide generated for trips of 100, 500 and more than 1,000 miles taken by solo travelers, couples and families of four. ASTA believes this report is a useful tool for agents who have clients who want to improve the carbon footprint of their vacations. More details on the report can be found on the UCS site.

ASTA in USA Today

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 08, 2008

ASTA's latest TravelSense.org ad is expected to run today in USA Today promoting the use of travel agents. The ad points consumers to TravelSense.org to find their local ASTA travel agent and encourages them to be sure to use an agent for their next trip. "No matter how many questions, you need only one answer: your travel agent," says the ad.

ASTA international travel agency members: Register associates for $125

ASTA SmartBrief | Dec 08, 2008

As an International Travel Agency Member, strengthen your global connection to travel agents by registering your employees as an International Travel Associate of ASTA. Associate members may participate in local events, attend THETRADESHOW and ASTA's International Destination Expo, receive a listing on ASTA's Web site and much more. Develop contacts and see your sales improve. Get more information here, or e-mail bmills@asta.org.

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