Articles for Home Based Travel Agents

Both Tom and Joanie Ogg write articles for the various travel industry trade publications about home-based travel agents. Here are some recent articles that have been published. You might find them interesting. Keep checking back as we will post new articles as they are written.

Newest Articles Just Added, February, 2010

About Face (book) By Tom Ogg: If you are using Facebook, you must read this article that unveils the shocking truth regarding the lack of security for social media users. It shares tips on protecting yourself that everyone should read!

Finding Your Niche By Laura Frazier: Laura shares the benefits of focusing on a specific niche in this interesting and timely article.

Newest Articles Just Added, January, 2010

An Interview with the Leadership Team at Nexion, including General Manager Jackie Friedman By Joanie Ogg: Find out what's up at Nexion for 2010 in this in=dept interview.

Please join us in Ft. Lauderdale! Travel Weekly's Home Based Travel Agent Show and Conference, Travel Weekly's CruiseWorld 2010, Ft. Lauderdale Convention Center, Florida By Joanie Ogg CTC, MCC: SPECIAL OFFER FOR HOME BASED TRAVEL AGENT NEWS READERS! Joanie has arranged a special offer for our readers who are attending these shows. Don't miss out, read this article!

Service Fees and You By Laura Frazier: Laura shares her expertise on establishing and collecting service fees from clients. If you find yourself working hard only to see your clients shop online, this article is a "must read".

It’s Alright to Look Peyond the porthole...I did! By Dave Randon:  Many agents wonder how to develop a new niche. Dave explores the samll shipp / specialty cruise market and how you can exploit the opportunity.

Travel Trade Shows and You! By Tom Ogg: The New Year brings out a new calendar and the opportunity to plan on attending the major trade shows in the travel industry. Here are the top four shows to consider attending.

Build It and They Will Come By Nancy Norris: Boy, the newbuilds just keep coming. Nancy tracks the newbuilds i9ntroduced last year and coming this year in this informative article that is a must read for cruise agents.

Let's Go Surfing By Jan Shaughnessy: 2010 is upon us and here is a great article to let you view the new year in a wonderful way.

“Content is King When it Comes to Your Website” by Michelle R. Mangio, CTA: Michelle was on the technology panel at the Luxury show in Las Vegas and simply dazzled everyone with her knowledge. Joanie and I were so impressed that we asked her to share her experience and insight with all of you. You will find this article invaluable.

Oasis of the Seas Cruise Review From a Cruise Professional's Perspective By Nancy Norris: Nancy shares her perspective on Royal Caribbean's newest mega ship.

Brilliance of the Seas Cruise Review By Jan Shaughnessy: Just back from the Eastern Mediterranean and Egypt, Jan shares her experience on this interesting itinerary.

Voyages to Antiquity Named "Best Educational Cruise Line for 2010" By Mitch Schlesinger: If you are not familiar with Voyages to Antiquity, this article is a must read.

Library of Articles by Topic

Articles About Travel Marketing
Articles About Travel Marketing On-Line
Articles About Travel Automation
Articles About Travel Suppliers
Articles About Being Home-Based
Articles About Host Agencies
Articles About Cruising 
Articles About Selling Groups
Articles About Travel Industry Education
Articles About the Travel Industry in General
Articles About Legal Issues
Articles About Destinations

Articles About Travel Marketing

Let's Go Surfing By Jan Shaughnessy: 2010 is upon us and here is a great article to let you view the new year in a wonderful way.

The 3 main ingredients for “Customers for Life”… (Which ones do you posses?) By Cory Andrichuk: A GREAT article to remind us of the key elements in retaining clients for the long term.

Your News in the New Year, To print or not to print, that is the question? By Joanie Ogg CTC, MCC: Joanie explores the issue of whether a printed newsletter out performs an e-newsletter in this interesting article of keen interest if you currently, or intend to start an agency newsletter.

Plan to Market Today for that Sale Tomorrow! By Cory Andrichuk: Here is some sage advice from Cory Andrichuk about getting your marketing plan for 2010 ready now.

GHOST, GOBLINS, AND GHOULIES By Jan Shaughnessy: Now is the time to cash in on Halloween travel and Jan makes it easy by outlining the various opportunities to convince your clients to make this Halloween fun!

How Do You Fight the Battle By Jan Shaugnessy: Here is a timely and wonderful article that we all should read. It is especially appropriate in today's economy.

Wow! I want to open that email advertisement…By Joanie Ogg, CTC, MCC: If you have ever struggled to write a successful headline for an advertisement or e-mail subject line, this article is a must read. Joanie shares some of the secrets of the trade.

Good for the Goose and Gander by Jan Shaughnessy: Jan takes a hard look at the reality of travel in 2009 and makes some excellent suggestions on how to protect your client while also increasing yields. Great and timely article!

The Graying of America - Extraordinary Selling Opportunities By Mitchell J. Schlesinger:  Here is an excellent article regarding the senior market and how to successfully market to it.

Elevator Speech Writing 101 By Joanie Ogg, CTC, MCC: WOW! Ever wondered how to dazzle people in 60 seconds? Joanie's article will motivate you to build your elevator speech for maximum impact.

Are You Focused? By Cory Andrichuk: Great article at a time when we all need to be streamlining our marketing and business plans.

How to Stay True to Your Niche in a Down-Turn Economy By: Cory Andrichuk: Cory shares some timely and sage advice that reminds us all that marketing is the key to our future, even in a difficult economy.

Baby Boomer by Mitchell Schlesinger: A travel professional cannot ignore this growing and vibrant market. Mitch takes a look at the Baby Boomer generation and defines their size and scope. This is a "must read" for anyone looking to tap into this market.

Plan to Go Agreements and You By Tom Ogg: If you are tired of doing work for clients only to have them either no follow though with the trip, or worse, book it online after shopping for price? You must read this article on how to use Plan to Go Agreements to solidify your position. There is also a sample Plan to Go Agreement at the end of the article.

Blow Your Horn by Jan Shaughnessy:  Jan shares an insight into what it takes to become a knowledgeable and professional travel agent.

Client For Life - Stick to the Basics By Mitchell J. Schlesinger: Here is the fifth in a series of articles by Mitch sharing the secrets of retaining clients for life. These are a "must read".

The Art of Connecting By Cory Andrichuk:  Here is an excellent article about connecting with potential clients and how to structure your time to maximize your connections.

Clients for Life Managing Travel Over Time: The fourth article in the series that deals with how to maintain clients for life.

Client for Life, The Dollars and Sense of Client Loyalty: Here is the third article in a series of five that share how to keep your clients for life. This is a "must read".

C-e-l-e-b-r-a-t-e  Good Times, Come On! Jan Shaughnessy shares her secrets on how to cash in on the recession and difficult times.

Eight Tips For Writing and Editing Copy: Here are things to remember when you're writing copy for your website, booklet, brochure or any other writen communication that will help you stay focused on the result that you want.

Client For Life, The Successful Customer Service Action Plan Needs the 3 "R"s (Part 2): Mitchell J. Schlesinger, a well known and respected industry executive shares how to maintain clients for life is his provocative 5-part essay. Don't miss reading this article.

Client For Life, Managing the Customer Relationship (Part One): Mitchell J. Schlesinger, a well known and respected industry executive shares how to maintain clients for life is his provocative 5-part essay. Don't miss reading this article.

What Do You Mean By Service?: Rusty Pickett piques your thinking about customer service in this great article that reminds us what is important.

Crafting YOUR USP (Unique Selling Proposition): Joanie Ogg CTC MCC shares how to discover and use your Unique Selling Proposition to succeed in your marketing efforts.

Travel Video, YouTube.com and You: If you want to drive traffic to your website by the droves for free, then this article is for you. The video phenomenon is here to stay. Find out how you can cash in on it now!

Practical and Tactical Marketing Techniques: We all sometimes forget basic techniques to market ourselves. Here is an excellent look at every day ways to market your business.

Relationship Networking Works: Joanie Ogg CTC MCC shares how to use relationship networking to build a solid referral network and plenty of new clients. If you are unfamiliar with relationship networking, this article is for you!

Customer Care: Joanie Ogg CTC, MCC shares some thought provoking ideas on how to make sure your customers don't go anywhere else.

Targeting Your Audience: Getting focused can make all the difference in your business. Here is how to target your audience for results.

New Years Resolutions for Customer Service Power! Here is a customer service wish list for the new year.

Great Expectations: Selling luxury cruises has its own challenges. Here is an article that deals with matching your client's expectations with the actual experience.

Articles About Travel Marketing On-Line

“Content is King When it Comes to Your Website” by Michelle R. Mangio, CTA: Michelle was on the technology panel at the Luxury show in Las Vegas and simply dazzled everyone with her knowledge. Joanie and I were so impressed that we asked her to share her experience and insight with all of you. You will find this article invaluable.

All a Twitter by Tom Ogg: If you are all excited to launch your new marketing effort on social media and cash in on the explosion of business that is going to come your way, you probably need to read this article first.

Where Can I get a Cheap Travel Website? By Tom Ogg: This is the first in a series of articles that deals with travel websites and travel agents. Destined to become an e-book, these articles will clear up the mystery most agents face when considering their web presence.

New Viral Marketing Tool For Travel Agents By Tom Ogg: Marketing on the Internet was never this easy! Cruise countdown clocks are enjoyed by tens of thousands of people. They use them in bulletin boards, discussion groups, on websites and even on their desktops. Check out how this new tool can drive traffic to your website, special group promotion, reunions and more.

Google Wave and the Travel Industy By Tom Ogg:  If you do not know what Google Wave is, you MUST read this article. Wave is likely to change the very nature of travel marketing as we know it.

E-Mail Marketing - What's in it for Me? By: Joanie Ogg CTC, MCC How is your e-mal marketing going? Here is a great article on how to fie tune it for results.

PayPal Merchant Services and You! If you have wrestled with how to collect service fees, operate your own shopping cart and generally have wanted to develop your own online store to sell tours, shore excursions and collect fees, this article shows you just how easy it is.

Viral Marketing and You: Are you looking to grow organic traffic to your website? Here are  critical things to know about viral marketing.

Social Netiquette: Working the various social media for business requires some very specific behavior to be successful. Here is a detailed look of what, and what not, to do to harvest business.

30 Tips to Drive Traffic to Your Website: Want a ton of free traffic delivered to your website to generate new clients? Here is an article chock full of ideas that you can use.

Travel Video, YouTube.com and You: If you want to drive traffic to your website by the droves for free, then this article is for you. The video phenomenon is here to stay. Find out how you can cash in on it now!

Your Mission, Should You Choose to Accept It: I have known Jan for several years now and have been impressed at how she presents herself online. She is a moderator for Cruise-Chat.com and quickly started forming cruise groups and turned her interest in online communities into hard cash. I asked Jan to write an article sharing her experiences so we all could learn from her.

Drive Traffic and Business with Travel Articles: If you want to drive focused traffic to your website in droves and for free, this article will show you how to do it. Using travel articles focused on your area of expertise is an excellent way to spread the word about your web. Check it out Here.

Global Settlement and You: This fascinating article deals with the various global settleent processes that have sprung up. This is a "must Read" if you do business outside of the United States.

eNewsletters; Part One: Thinking of publishing an eNewsletter to distribute to your clients? This article is a "must read".

eNewsletters; Part Two: Here is the second half of the eNewsletter article. You will love the info in this article.

Growing Your Business Online: Written by Nancy Norris, a self professed online junkie, this is excellent information for anyone looking to expand their business working with online discussion groups.

Online Communities and Your Future: Here is a wonderful article that deals with the reality of online communities and how they affect travel agents.

Clicks, Conversions and Customers: Here is an article of great interest if you sell cruises as a home based cruise agent on the web.

Google Levels Playing Field for Home Based Travel Agents: If you are not familiar with contextual advertising on the web, you need to read this article closely.

Blogging for Fun and Profit: Have you ever wanted to start a blog but didn't know where to start? This article shows you the way.

Making the On-Line Cruise World Work For You: Want to sell some cruises, but don't have access to clients? Go on-line and learn how to massage the cruise forums for your benefit.

Home-Based Travel Webpreneur’s Tools of the Trade: If you are looking at the web as a resource for your business, here are the tools you need to succeed.

Travel META Search and Your Future: The new travel META search sites are changing the way consumers will use the Internet. How will it affect you?

AdSense Secrets Revealed: A "must read" if you are using Google's AdSense program for publishers.

10 Things Search Engines Hate: Here is a very interesting article about what not to do if you are trying to gain top rankings in the search engines.

10 Things Search Engines Love: Here are ten things you can do to enhance your search engine rankings.

Articles About Travel Automation

Where Can I get a Cheap Travel Website? A Basic Travel Agency Presence Site By Tom Ogg: Here is a continuation of the series on how to get a cheap website. This is a "must read" if you are thinking about obtaining a website for your agency.

Do You Bump? By Joanie Ogg CTC, MCC: If you use an iPhone, you have got to check this useful ap out! Say so long to business card exchanges at trade shows.

Google, Bing, Yahoo and eBay, What’s Going On? - Part Two By Tom Ogg: Here is part two of the controversial article that deals with the evolution of technology and the likely effect it might have on the travel industry distribution channel.

Google: Helping Travel Agents Succeed: Here is an article about everything that Google offers travel agents so that they can succeed in their business. The best thing about it is that all of the tools are absolutely free.

Content, Content, Content: Want to know how to get your website to perform? Here is an article that will show you how to do it. While the mantra in real estate investing is Location, location, location the content in your website is everything in terms of its performance.

Global Settlement Solutions and You: From collecting service fees from clients to selling tours across currency platforms, you need to understand how to use global settlement solutions to process funds. Here is a great article that investigates exactly how you can use PayPal.com to prosper.

Oh, Those Keyword Domain Names: Even the New York Times recognizes the value of keyword domain names. Here is an article that deals with the buying and selling of keyword domain names. You will believe the prices some people are asking, and getting.

The Future of Portable Desktops: Here is a great article to read if you are just considering the purchase of a new desktop or laptop computer.

Buying your Website Globally: Thinking of getting a website built? This article will save you hundreds (if not thousands) of dollars. This is something everyone should be aware of.

You Won't Believe This - SKYPE.com: If you are not using VOIP and SKYPE, you need to read this article.

Mozilla and You: Fed up with Microsoft's Internet Explorer? It is time to download Firefox and rejoice! Check this article out to get the latest open source browser.

What's In a (Domain) Name?: The travel industry is racing to the web as they number one product. Find out how important a domain name may be to your future.

Google, VoIP and You: If you are wondering what VoIP is and how it might affect your future, as a home-based travel agent, you need to read this article.

Romancing Search Engines for Fun and Profit: If you are looking to develop a strong web site based on search engine deliveries of potential clients for your home based travel business, you need to read this.

Articles About Travel Suppliers

An Interview with Sharon Meyer, C.E.O. of TRAMS Inc. By Joanie Ogg CTC, MCC: ClientBase Online is the perfect CRM for home based travel agents. Find out why in this interview.

A message From Starwood's Vice President of Global Customer Partnerships Chris Austin: Chris shares some important last minute information about the holidays and Starwood.

TheTourOperator.com By Joanie Ogg CTC, MCC: Joanie ran into Jake Steinman, the CEO of TheTourOperator.com and asked him to share some information with us about the company and why they are anxious to work with travel professionals.

SHERATON HOTELS INVESTS $4 BILLION - OFFERS YOUR CLIENTS NEW EXPERIENCES IN DESTINATIONS ACROSS NORTH AMERICA: Great update from Starwood about their Sheraton brand.

Passport Online Offers Complete Website Solution: Customizable, Extensive Supplier Content, Social Networking Options By Greg Kott, President & CEO: Need a website? Check out Online Agency's offerings. Lots going on here.

Supplier Spotlight: TripAtlas.com By Tom Ogg: Tom caught up with TripAtlas.com's Travis Snelling who shares what appears to be an excellent opportunity for agents looking for quality leads. Travis also make an excellent special offer to entice readers to try TripAtlas.com.

Interview with Bo Adams, Founder and President of City Escape Holidays: I have known Bo for over three decades and consider him one of the most astute entrepreneurs in our industry. Bo shares some sage advice for everyone in this article.

TripAtlas.com Q & A By Tom Ogg: If you have an interest in getting sales leads to work on TripAtlas.com has a formidable program for your investigation. Here are the questions and answers to the ones you will probably want to ask.

Riding Shotgun in Troubled Times: Have you ever felt as if you were the caught between the client and the supplier and taking bullets from each one? Here is a great article about choosing the right relationships to avoid being caught in the middle.

Globus Family of Brands - Avalon Waterways: If you sell river cruises, here is an article that you need to read by the COO of Globus Family of Brands

Tripology and You: If you want to know how to get the most from Tripology, this article by the CEO tells you how to maximize the quality of your leads.

Articles About Being Home-Based

Travel Trade Shows and You! By Tom Ogg: The New Year brings out a new calendar and the opportunity to plan on attending the major trade shows in the travel industry. Here are the top four shows to consider attending.

Leadership is Traveling By Example by Cory Andrichuk: Here is some great advice that Cory shares with you. Excellent read!

An Ideal World By Jan Shaughnessy: Here is a timely article that all of us should read and consider. It isn't if, it is when and Jan does an excellent job of reminding us to take care of business.

Staying the Course – Your Highway to Success By Joanie Ogg, CTC, MCC: Joanie explores the reality of operating your business and maintaining focus on your core result areas as a way to make sure that you are staying on course in this "must read" article no matter how long you have been operating your home-based travel agency.

My New Year's Resolution: If you are home based, here is an article that is a "must read". Joanie Ogg CTC MCC shares some motivating insight into working from home that you should consider.

Re-Ignating the Entrepreneurial Flame: Joanie Ogg CTC, MCC the poast President of NACTA shares why she made the decision to become entrepreneyrial once again after an 8-year stint with ASTA.

10 Commandments for Home Based Travel Agents: Written by Nancy Kist of the Career Quest Training Center, here is a great article to remind us all to focus on the important issues.

Procrastination, Tomorrow's Problem, or Today's? Here is a wonderful article about how procrastination interferes with our success.

Travel Business Parental Success: Here is a great article for parents working from home that deals with how to cope with the many challenges.

Home Based Travel Agents, Are You Buried in Paper?: Here is a wonderful article to read if you are like most home-based travel professionals and are buried in paper. Here is the way out!

The Name Game: Trying to decide upon your agency's name? Here is a great article that will help you find just the right name.

Tools for Projecting a Professional Image: Here is an excellent article on the OAG tools that Nancy uses to project a professional image to her clients.

Father Time: Here is a great article if you are having a difficult time managing your time in your business.

How to Start Your Home-Based Cruise Agency: I wrote this article for Princess Cruise's Princess Academy and thought you might find it interesting. Check it out.

Home Based Symptoms and Cures: Joanie writes about the symptoms of being home based and also the cures for the symptoms. See if you can relate to any of these.

What it Takes to Be a Successful Home-Based Travel Agent: Here is a hard hitting article that outlines what it takes to become a successful home-based travel agent. This is interesting reading for everyone (especially those new to our industry)

5 Tips For Success for a Home-Based Travel Agent: Here are 5 excellent tips for succeeding as a home-based travel agent.

Home-Based Agent Qualities that Lead to Success!: Do you have what it takes to succeed as a home based travel agent? Check this out.

Are You in the ZONE? Making sure your home-based travel business is on the legal side is a very important consideration. This article sheds some light on very important issues.

Surfing and Home Based Travel Agents: A look at the explosion in the interest level of home-based travel agents.

Professionals Need Professionals: Great article about finding and working with other professionals.

Do You Need Help? Here is an article that looks at the issue of finding help when you have too much business to handle. It offers some creative ways to find staff.

Do You Need to be Insured? Great article about the various types of insurance a home-based travel agent might need to consider.

The History of Home-Based Travel Agents, NACTA and Good Reporting: I wrote this article in response to an article that appeared in a trade publication implying that NACTA was not the first association for independent contractors and that this other association really founded the movement. I have always found that it is more meaningful to focus on positives, rather than negatives, so you might find this interesting reading.

Conect For Success: The reality of isolation as a home-based travel agent is a huge factor for some people. Here is how you combat it.

Growth? Good or Bad?: Here is an excellent article that looks at the reality of growing your home-based travel business.

Six Chicken Soup Tips for the Travel Professional: This article deals with some basic ideas we all lose sight of.

Articles About Host Agencies

An Interview with the Leadership Team at Nexion, including General Manager Jackie Friedman By Joanie Ogg: Find out what's up at Nexion for 2010 in this in=dept interview.

An interview with Terri Burke, SVP of Relationship Marketing, Cruise Planners/American Express By Joanie Ogg CTC, MCC:

An Interview with Montrose Travel’s Andi Mysza, President, MTravel.com By Joanie Ogg CTC, MCC: Montrose Travel (MTravel) has been hosting independent travel agents for over 35 years. Find out what is so special about them.

An Interview with TPI’s President Ken Gagliano By: Joanie Ogg, CTC, MCC: Joanie catches up with Ken Gagliano at THETRADESHOW in Las Vegas. Here is what is going on at TPI.

Making Dreams Come True For Travel Agents and Entrepreneurs, Q & A With Michael Deaver CEO and Founder of Expedia Cruise Ship Centers By Tom Ogg:  CEO and Founder Michael Deaver shares Expedia Cruise Ship Center's success story in this interesting interview.

Incentive Connection Interview with Harvey Simon By Joanie Ogg CTC, MCC: Joanie Ogg meets up with Harvey Simon, founder of ICT, Incentive Connection Travel. You will enjoy this wonderful interview with the founder of one of the first host agency models.

An Interview With Host Agency UNIGLOBE travel USA By Joanie Ogg CTC MCC: Joanie meets up with Betsy Geiser, V.P. of UNIGLOVE Travel USA and asks some probing questions about Uniglobe's hosting program. This will be of interest to seasoned agents, as ell as new agents alike.

An Interview with TravelQuest's CEO, Stephanie Lee: Joanie Ogg CTC, MCC sits down with STephanie Lee and asks some tough questions about TravelQuest's hosting program. This is an excellent interview agents will want to read.

Partners in Travel Host Agency Spotlight Interview: Joanie asks Paula davenport all about Partners in Travel's host agency programs. If you are looking for a host agency, be sure to read this.

Evaluating the Benefits of a Host Agency Affiliation, An Interview with Don Gould, Chairman & CEO of GTM By Joanie Ogg CTC, MCC: Joanie meets up with long time friend Don Gould, Chairman and CEO of GTM Travel Partners for an enlightening interview regarding host agencies.

An Interview with Michele Fee, CEO of Cruise Planners: Joanie Ogg CTC, MCC had an opportunity to sit down with Michele Fee, CEO of Cruise Planners for an in-depth look at Cruise Planer's home-based agent program. Also, Michele offers some sage advice on how to survive this economy.

An Interview with TPI's President Ken Gagliano: Looking for a host agency? Here is an interview with TPI's President who answers tough questions about their hosting program.

Accelerate Your Success with Nexion: An Interview with Nexion’s General Manager Jackie Friedman By: Joanie Ogg CTC MCC. Find out what is new with Nexion for 2009.

The Talent to Scam: Worried about getting scammed by a host agency, card mill, franchise operator or other unscrupulous company? This article will tell you exactly how to avoid getting taken for a ride.

Host or Scam: Here is an article from a lady who signed up with a host agency and has regretted it ever since. See what she did wrong and read her suggestions on how to find the right host agency the first time.

Selecting a Host Agency: Looking for information of what to look for when selecting a host agency? Here is a detailed look that you will find very helpful.

Articles About Cruising

Build It and They Will Come By Nancy Norris: Boy, the newbuilds just keep coming. Nancy tracks the newbuilds i9ntroduced last year and coming this year in this informative article that is a must read for cruise agents.

It’s Alright to Look Peyond the porthole...I did! By Dave Randon:  Many agents wonder how to develop a new niche. Dave explores the samll shipp / specialty cruise market and how you can exploit the opportunity.

Oasis of the Seas Cruise Review From a Cruise Professional's Perspective By Nancy Norris: Nancy shares her perspective on Royal Caribbean's newest mega ship.

Brilliance of the Seas Cruise Review By Jan Shaughnessy: Just back from the Eastern Mediterranean and Egypt, Jan shares her experience on this interesting itinerary.

Voyages to Antiquity Named "Best Educational Cruise Line for 2010" By Mitch Schlesinger: If you are not familiar with Voyages to Antiquity, this article is a must read.

The Oasis of the Seas First Look By Tom Ogg: If you missed sailing on the Oasis of the Seas in augural cruises, here is a thorough pictorial review of the ship deck by deck. There are hundreds of pictures to enjoy.

MSC Poesia First Look by Sherry Laskin: Aboard the President's Cruise, Sherry shares a thorough review of the Poesia's entry into the Caribbean marketplace.

Little Waves + Cool Experience = BIG PROFITS By Dave Randon: Dave shares some tips on how to cash in on the expedition / small ship market. This is just the ticket if you are stuck selling low end cruises.

Voyages to Antiquity - No Single Supplement! By Tom Ogg: Voyages to Antiquity is making some terrific inaugural season offers that will entice your older and single clients. Here is what is being made available for you to prosper with. This cruise line is going to be great!

Stone Island, Off-the-Beaten-Path in Mazatlan By Nancy Norris: On a recent Mexican Riviera cruise, Nancy Norris discovers a hidden jewel that is perfect for those wanting to get away from the crowds and enjoy Mazatlan's fabulous beaches.

Cruising Alaska By Tom Ogg: Ahhh, there is nothing like an Alaska Cruise, but staying up on current port information is an extremely important task for agents selling Alaska. Here are completely up-to-date reviews of each port as of 2009. You will probably want to print them our and keep them in your Alaska cruise selling files.

MARK YOUR CALENDARS!  September 29 and 30, 2009 - Oasis of the Seas Virtual Experience By Joanie Ogg: The Oasis of the Seas is coming. Don' miss this opportuntiy to experience the ship with a virtual tour. There is going to be huge demand and you need to know the product to properly sell it. Mark you calendars and register today!

Civitavecchia To or From Rome On Your Own by Tom Ogg: Wondering how to get your clients from the airport to Rome and then from Rome to Civitavecchia? Here are complete instructions on how to do it with pictures that will show you exactly what to do using lots of pictures. You will want to print this one out for your Mediterranean selling files.

Gibraltar Shore Excursion On Your Own by Tom Ogg: Gibraltar is a wonderful port, but don't make the mistake of signing up for a shore excursion. Here is exactly how to explore Gibraltar on your own.

Valletta, Malta On Your Own Shore Excursion by Tom Ogg: Valletta is quickly becoming an important port for Mediterranean cruises and is also a home port to a growing number of ships. Here is a great review of how to explore Valletta on your own. The review also includes a detailed review of how to do Mdina On Your Own.

Cinque Terre On Your Own Shore Excursion By Tom Ogg:  If you have clients cruising the Western Mediterranean this summer and want to do something out of the ordinary when they visit Livorno, this is the trip for them. Cinque Terre is Italy at its best and this review will show you (and your clients) exactly how to do it on your own. You will want to add these to your Western Mediterranean cruise files.

Aix en Provence - On Your Own Shore Excursion By Tom Ogg: Turn a visit to Marseille into an adventure into Provence. This review shows you (and your clients) exactly how to Visit Aix en Provence via public bus from Marseille. It leaves nothing to the imagination. You will want to add these to your Western Mediterranean cruise files.

Port of Vancouver Travel Agent's Guide: Here is another home port in Nancy's series of port guides for travel agents. You will want to print this one mout and save it in your Alaska file.

Travel Agent Guide to Port of Seattle by Nancy Norris:  Here is another port review by Nancy Norris for travel agents. You will want to print this out and save it in our Seattle port information file.

Oceans of Profit in International Destination Cruise Sales By Mitchell Schlesinger: Mitch shares some wonderful information that sophisticated cruise professionals should take the time to read and absorb.

Nancy's Alaska Cruise Packing Tips by Nancy Norris: Here is great advice to give your Alaska bound cruisers. Print it out and save it in your Alaska files to give to your clients when the book their Alaska cruise.

Travel Agent's Guide to Port Canaveral by Nancy Norris: Here is another Travel Agent's Guide in a series of home port guides by Nancy Norris. You will want to print this out and make sure you have it in your Port Canaveral files.

Carnival Splendor Cruise Review: Here is an in-depth review of Carnival's new Splendor by Tom Ogg a seasoned cruiser. This review also contains information on how to get the best cruise rates on Carnival that is timely and is a "must read" if you sell cruises.

Travel Agents Guide to the Port of San Diego: Here is a detailed report for travel agents on the Port of San Diego that you will want to save in your files.

MSC Lirica Cruise Review by Sherry Laskin: Sherry just returned from a Caribbean cruise on the MSC Lirica. She shares her perspective of the ship and MSC generally in this in-depth look at the Lirica with lots of pictures.

Have Wheel Chair, Will Travel by Nancy Norris: Approached by a young woman in a wheel chair for a cruise, Nancy researched all of the cruise lines to see which ships were the most accessible. Her findings may surprise you.

Travel Agent's Guide to Port Everglades By Nancy Norris: OK, here is another complete guide to ports written by Nancy Norris. You will want to print this out and save it, as you will use it over and over again as a resource.

Carnival Spirit Cruise Review: Cruise Editor Nancy Norris reviews her recent cruise on the Carnival Spirit out of San Diego.

Travel Agents Guide to the Port of San Diego: Here is a detailed report for travel agents on the Port of San Diego that you will want to save in your files.

From the Heart...: Rusty Pickett shares a warm experience that he had on a recent cruise. Take a minute to read this article to feel good about what you do.

New Cruise Ships on the Horizon: Even in the recession the cruise industry is expanding its fleet. Here is the run down on all oif the newbuilds currently in process compiled by "HBTANEWS" Cruise Editor Nancy Norris

Celebrity Solstice Cruise Review - (a Travel Agent's Perspective): Sailing on a pre inaugural cruise aboard the Celebrity Solstice, HBTA News Cruise Editor gives her honest evaluation of the ship.

Far From the Maddening Crowd: Nancy Norris looks at the opportunities for those cruise passengers that want to avoid the over crowded mass-market ports. This is a must read for cruise agents.

Articles About Selling Groups

VOYAGES TO ANTIQUITY, Extraordinary Experiences and Value for Guests, Extraordinary Opportunities for Travel Agents By Mitch Schlesinger: Outstanding itineraries, wine and shore excursions are included and commission on everything for travel agents. What more could we ask for?

All the World's a Stage - The U.K. for the Performing Arts: Paull Tickner shares his wealth of knowledge of the U.K. and how to appeal to special groups in this wonderful article.

Tours of Your Bookshelf: Paull Tickner continues his wonderful look at specialty tours of the U.K.. This is a must read if you do small specialty group to Europe.

"Girls Getaways to London and the Cotswolds": Paull Tickner, a well known expert in tourism to the U.K. shares inside information on this growing market.

Streamlining Your Group Business with Easy Technology - Part 2: Here is the second part of Sandy Elson MCC's wonderful article that is a "must read" for every agent.

Streamlining Your Group Business with Easy Technology – Part 1: Sandy Elson MCC shares wonderful tips on how to "WOW" your groups using simple technology. This is a "MUST READ" if you sell groups.

Marketing Special Groups on YouTube.com: Here is an excellent article with Karen Dawson CTC, CTIE about her success at marketing a cooking tour to the U.K. on YouTube.com. This is very interesting reading and will get your imagination going about the opportunities.

Articles About Travel Industry Education

Please join us in Ft. Lauderdale! Travel Weekly's Home Based Travel Agent Show and Conference, Travel Weekly's CruiseWorld 2010, Ft. Lauderdale Convention Center, Florida By Joanie Ogg CTC, MCC: SPECIAL OFFER FOR HOME BASED TRAVEL AGENT NEWS READERS! Joanie has arranged a special offer for our readers who are attending these shows. Don't miss out, read this article!

Tradeshow 2.0   Part 2 – The Exhibitor, By Cory Andrichuk: Having just returned from THETRADESHOW in Las Vegas, this is one article that every supplier should read and hand out to their sales force.

Tradeshow 2.0   Part One – The Attendee By Cory Andrichuk: Before you head off to a tradeshow, be sure to read this article on how to maximize your returns from your investment.

Is Your Attitude Half Full or Half Empty By Cory Andrichuk:  Now is the time to do an attitude check and this article will help you focus on the right thinking that will lead to success, even in today's economy.

On The Road Again! Trying to find the Ogg's upcoming seminars? Here is a brief article outlining their fall / winter 2008 schedule.

What is a Professional? Jim Terracciano, CTC, MCC, Executive Director of TPN shares his thoughts on what makes a travel professional

Wear Your Professional Credentials on Your Sleeve: Here is an excellent article written by industry leader Jim Smith regarding the coming shortage of travel professionals and industry professionalism. Great Reading!

Cruise Seminars, How to Maximize Your Productivity: Here is a wonderful article on how to maximize your productivity while taking a industry cruise seminar. I think everyone should read this one.

Cruising: The Best Education Money Can Buy: Nancy Norris shares her experience at becoming a solid cruise agent and how you can do the same.

Cruise Sellers Should Cruise: Joanie Ogg CTC, MCC shares the reasons that home-based travel and cruise specialists should take cruises and outlines the reason that NACTA cruise seminars are highly regarded by both the agents that attend them and the cruise lines that sponsor them.

Articles About the Travel Industry in General

Service Fees and You By Laura Frazier: Laura shares her expertise on establishing and collecting service fees from clients. If you find yourself working hard only to see your clients shop online, this article is a "must read"

Holiday Message for Travel Agents By Jan Shaughnessy: Jan reminds us what is so special about what we do for people in this entertaining and motivating article.

The Home Based Travel Agent Show, An Interview With Barry Krantz and Lorene Romero By Tom Ogg: Barry and Lorene host the popular podcast known as "The Home Based Travel Agent Show" and produce a weekly show for the travel industry. If you haven't utilized their podcasts, be sure to check our their site. There is lots of information to be found there.

Remembering to Give Thanks By Jan Shaughnessy: Jan reminds us all that it is that time of yesr to give thanks and shares her poem with all.

Bad Times or Good Times, What Are Travel Professionals Saying? By Joanie Ogg CTC, MCC - Part Two: More from Joanies seminar with NACTA. Very interesting reading.

Bad Times or Good Times, What are Travel Professionals Saying? By Joanie Ogg CTC, MCC: Just back from a meeting where agents shared their experiences in today's economy, Joanie shares some insights from some of the attendees.

Internet Research Tools for Travel Agents By Nancy Norris: Nancy shares her most favorite bookmarks in this informative and valuable article. You are going to want to take notes on this one.

Air Travel Survival in the Not-So Friendly Skies by Nancy Norris: Nancy is a hard-core traveler and she shares some inside tips to survive today's reality of flying on commercial airliners. You should print this out and give it to every client that is flying to their cruise or destination.

Paradigms and the Travel Industry: Do you have the feeling that something is going on, but cannot put your finger on it? Here is a look at where we might be going.

Flying 101 By Jan Shaughnessy: You have to take a minute and read this hilarious article about taking long flights. I this doesn't make you laugh, nothing will. There are also some excellent tips for travel agents who are flying long distances.

ARC's VTC Program: If you are thinking about getting your own travel industry identification number, check out ARC's new VTC program! This is the solution you have been waiting for! It is the least expensive way to go and also the most effective!

Maximizing Your Time in Challenging Times: Just back from the Leisure Travel Conference in Miami, Florida, Joanie Ogg CTC MCC shares was to maximize your time in the current economic environment and focus on successful strategies.

Are You Going to Participate in the Recession? Here is a timely and provocative article about how to avoid the effects of recession on your business. What to do, where to focus and how to avoid the pitfalls of recession are delt with in he "must read" article.

Airline Bankruptcies, Fuel Prices and You: Who is next? This stimulating article looks at the realities of the airlines financial positions and rates the major carriers likelihood of going bankrupt. Which major airline faces a 50% chance of going bankrupt by the end of 2008?

Niche Cruises and the Future For Cruise Professionals: Larry Dessler of the Niche Cruise Marketing Alliance (NCMA) did a presentation at the Cruise-A-Thon in Vancouver that was right on the money. Read how niche cruise products are the way to your future profitability.

An Interview With Larry Dessler of the NCMA: After watching Larry Dessler's presentation at Cruise-A-Thon in Vancouver, I wanted to interview him regarding the obvious opportunities NCMA offers travel professionals. Larry agreed and here it is. The only reason that you wouldn't read this interview and take its advice is that you are already making too much money and don't need any more.

Editorial: You Too Can Become a Professional Travel Agent For Only $$$$ Per Year!:  Upset about card Mills and the proliferation of "for profit" solutions? Take charge of the future and get involved with this movement!

Travel Gadgets, Gizmos and Tips: Here is the latest in "must have" travel gadgets that everyone needs.

Travel Agents, Card Mills and Witch Hunts: This is a very timely and interesting article about the evolution of cards mills in the travel industry and how travel professionals can take action to neutralize them in today's world.

Luxury Cruise vs. Luxury Resort, Which One is Better? If you are selling to the luxury market, this article makes great points when you are selling cruises vs. luxury resorts. Check it out Here.

The Article I have Waited 25 Years to Write: Being an old airline employee I love the airline business, but deregulation has led to the deterioration of service and amenities to a point where flying is just not enjoyable. Enter Continental Airlines...read why you should switch to Continental now.

River Cruising, Opportunities Run Deep: If you haven't explored selling river cruises to boost your profitability, this article will pinpoint many reasons that you should.

Great Expectations: Matching the client to the right product is what being a professional travel agent is all about. Here is an excellent article that explores that process.

A History of Travel Retailing: The travel industry has changed dramatically over the last 4 decades. This article shares waht has changed and what has not. This is an excellent article for those wanting to understand why travel industry training is so different today than it was decades ago.

All About Selling Travel Insurance:  Straight talk between Joanie Ogg and a travel insurance supplier about the realities of selling travel insurance.

Travel Affiliates, What is it All About? If you have a travel related website and want to generate some incremental revenue, check this article out.

The More Things Change...: Here  is an article about how the travel industry is changing regarding host agencies. If you ever read "Animal Farm" you will relate to this article.

Luxury Travel, Hurricane John and Punta de Mita a Lesson Learned: Here is a great article about the reality of today's leisure traveler.

Articles About Legal Issues

Home Based Travel Agents; Copyrights: Trademarks and You: Here is an important article regarding the use of content and registered trademarks as an independent contractor. Unless you completely understand copyright and trademark law, you must read this article.

Making Taxes Less Taxing: When that time of year rolls around, this is the article for you.

Articles About Destinations

So You Think You Know London? By Paull Tickner: Paull shares his unique knowledge of London in a way that should intriuge clients even if they have "been there, done that".

A closer look at the Heart of England By Paull Tickner: Just back from taking dozens of travel professionals throughout the heart of England, Paull shares his insights and experiences with everyone.

The UK/Ireland and the Faith Tourism industry? By Paull Tickner: Faith based travel is exploding and the U.K. and Ireland offer excellent venues for all religions. Here is how to cash in on it.

PUTTING THE "T" IN BRITAIN By Paull Tickner: Paull continues with his niche marketing hints for the UK. This is extremely valuyable information for any one selling the UK or special groups.

SEE IT! SAMPLE IT! SELL IT! By Paull Tickner: U.K. expert Paull Tickner is inviting you to immerse yourself in the specialty group opoortunities in the U.K. by attending an in-depth Educational in England. If you want to sell the U.K., this is a huge opportunity for you.

Niche Market Britain on and off the Beaten Track By Paull Tickner:  This month Paull takes a look at packaging and selling niche groups to the U.K.. This is a great way to develop groups during this economy.

Beyond Band of Brothers By Jan Shaughnessy: Jan just returned from a tour following the 101st Airborne Paratroopers "Easy Company" during WWII. This is a fascinating article and a "must read" especially after just passing the 65th anniversary of "D Day". The tour starts at Normandy Beach and ends in Germany. Lots of pictures and a great read. You will have clients interested in this tour product.

The British Ceramics Biennial By Paull Tickner: Here is a look at some unusual opportunities to reach out to clients interested in ceramics and offer a very detailed and focused tour of Britain's wonderful culture.

In an English Country Garden By Paull Tickner: Thinking of doing a customized group itinerary to the UK based around the U.K.'s fabulous gardens? Here is a "how to" article that you will want to save.

Have Big Dog Will Travel Part Two By Joanie Ogg CTC MCC: Here is the second part of Joanie's popular article on traveling with a large animal. It contains all of the things you need to advise your clients when they travel with their pets.

Set Your Sights on South Africa By Nancy Norris: Just back from ASTA's IDE in South Africa, Nancy Norris shares her experiences and offers advice on how agents can cash in on selling South Africa's robust experience.

Shaking the Dust Off the History Books By Paull Tickner:  Excellent article dealing with selling the U.K.'s wonderful history. Paull is an ex[ert at organizing themed visits to the U.K. and shares his wealth of knowledge with eveyone.

Have Big Dog - Will Travel: Joanie Ogg CTC MCC shames her experience taking her St. Bernard to Mexico for an extended stay. If you have clients that travel with pets, this article is a "must read"!

Forty Shades of Green: Jan Shaugnessy shares information regarding her recent visit to Ireland.