May 2, 2010
 No Ash Falling on Future Europe Travel
by Dori Saltzman
Though the recent grounding of air travel in Europe was one the most disruptive events ever to hit airlines and Europe, agents and tour operators agree it will not have any long term negative effects on European travel. Many also pointed out that the situation proved, rather convincingly, the importance of travel insurance.
“It is not our expectation that this situation will have a long-lasting, far-reaching negative effect on travel to Europe this year or beyond,” said Jennifer Halboth, director of marketing for the Globus family of brands.
“The current situation of European airport closures due to the volcanic ash cloud is very fluid, and temporary,” said Paul Wiseman, president of Trafalgar.
Though Halboth acknowledged the “magnitude of the current travel disruption,” she said the entire event had an “immense silver lining.”
“No travelers have been injured during this latest twist of Mother Nature and travelers do seem to see this as a unique act of nature vs. a problem that makes travel seemingly perilous.”
When asked if the problems caused by the volcanic ash could do to Europe what the swine flu did to Mexico, Linda K. Strait, vice president, director of operations for Great Southern Travel, located in Missouri, echoed Halboth. “This is seen as a temporary thing that will end, and there is not a safety threat beyond the ash dissipating.”
No travel agents Travel Market Report spoke with reported clients canceling future European travel plans, nor did they indicate they were steering clients away from Europe.
“No one has mentioned anything about not going to Europe because of volcanic ash,” Colleen Gillette, owner of New Paltz Travel, told Travel Market Report.
“Most of our leisure travel to Europe starts in the next month and so far no one seems to be panicked,” added Stephanie Turner, CTC, president and CEO of Brentwood Travel. “To my knowledge no one has thought about not planning a trip.”
“We’ve had calls from clients concerned about their flights this week but not past this week,” said Roxanne Boryczki, president of AZ Trails Travel in Arizona. “I’m telling them let’s wait and see what happens and go from there (unless they really want to postpone their plans). So far everyone is waiting to see what happens because they want to stay on schedule.”
Both Strait and Wiseman agreed that it’s important for agents to encourage clients to continue making plans to see the world, despite the challenges travelers sometimes face.
“While natural (and man-made) events of this nature can always impact travel, there is no way to predict and/or plan for these occurrences, so to allow this to impact a client’s future travel decisions for this summer and beyond would be unfortunate,” Wiseman said.
“We trust that seasoned travel professionals would agree with this, and that they will continue to let their clients know about the fantastic travel opportunities this summer to Europe or wherever in the world their clients wish to travel.”
“It does seem that the travel industry has more than it’s share of drama, issues and things working against it, but there is still so much beauty in the world and you’ve just got to experience it,” Strait added.
Positive Far Reaching Effects
Great Southern Travel’s Strait indicated one possible outcome of all the chaos is that more people will realize the value of travel agents.
“I believe that times like this emphasize the value of working with a travel professional. We have extended hours of operation, including Saturday and Sunday, so that we can be available when our customers need us.”
Globus’ Halboth hoped consumers would be more aware of the benefits of travel insurance when all was said and done.
“It’s extremely fortunate that so many travelers have travel insurance and travel agents should remind their clients that more than ever, travel insurance really adds to their clients’ peace of mind. No one could have predicted this and those travelers with travel insurance have been less inconvenienced – and possibly more importantly – less worried about thier travel plans than those without.”
New Paltz Travel’s Gillette reported her own clients felt the same way. “One customer who is leaving on May 2 mentioned that if the volcano kept erupting and didn't calm down that she would have to cancel their trip and she was happy that they have travel insurance
April 22, 2010
Happy Spring!!
ROYAL CARIBBEAN CRUISE LINE AUTHORIZES WWWMYGOINGPLACESTRAVEL.COM
WOW ! We are excited. After many months of working diligently to support all cruise lines we feel this news item was worth sharing.
Mr. M. Francis our Business Development rep has just offered you the client some great opportunities for this summer on Royal Caribbean ships.
That's right www.mygoingplacestravel.com will be the first agency to offer deals on exclusive Bayonne departures all summer. When you're looking for that great ship and great summer vacation you have no other choice in the matter. The Nation of Why Not is happening right before your eyes.
Www.MyGoingPlacesTravel.com continues to be one of the largest retail independent agencies willing to match any offer you have found online.
The most important part of this is YOU. You simply have to make sure any price you find is sent to our email. We have been meeting and beating all of the deals.
For those in the know this meant $100's of savings. "Oasis of the Seas" has proven to everyone Royal Caribbean has never ever tried to stay the course.
With a vacation on a Royal ship it just is not the same as any other cruise line.
Hope you get a chance to see what we can do for you.
Www.MyGoingPlacesTravel.com looks forward to making that next cruise vacation a special one on a Royal Caribbean ship. Great departures still available all summer long. Do not miss it!
As an authorized agency we look forward to getting you your best deal.
See you on board.
Pete Fanizzi March 14, 2010 MY CUSTOMERS SAVED OVER $102,350 LAST YEAR ALONE! DO I HAVE YOUR ATTENTION NOW? Are you planning that summer trip? Now that I have you reading this I would like to explain. All consumers of all types of products are looking for "the Deal". In the travel marketplace so many variables affect pricing making it really hard to tell if you are paying the best rate or not. That's where a good travel professional comes in. If you like looking up for information online, and who doesn't, just remember to make one more stop before you put your payment out there: WWW.MYGOINGPLACES.NET. We have proven ourselves to many customers "the bottom line online is not necessarily the bottom line". IT JUST DOES NOT ADD UP to savings for you to spend 2-3-4 hours online looking for the best deal. A good agent can save you that time and direct you to the information you want by booking your trip at the same price. If he is like me he will give you something off the rate to show his appreciation for the business. THAT’S A $500 savings!! $500 is $500 in my books and you know what? I did save all my customers over $100,000 last year. I do know our business did grow. What more can a small business ask for. Perfect gift! Our Travel certificates save you 10% up front. So when you purchase a $500 travel certificate from us save $50. All of these gifts must be purchased with money orders or cash. Thank you and give us a try, We want your travel business. Pete www.mygoingplacestravel.com February 28, 2010
Carnival Cruise Lines …
Yes, we all know about them and we also realize they are the leader of the cruise industry with multiple lines working with them.
I realized I have failed to mention them in of my previous blogs and felt it was time.
One thing for sure with Carnival, you will get what you pay for; a quality cruise experience with above average food quality compared with other lines.
Just note that the fastest growing segment of my cruise customers is with Carnival.
They have chosen to expand their fleet. The expansion has brought us some very nice, not too large quality ships
I was fortunate to be on the "Dream" this past fall and I have to tell you that it was a very nice experience.
The crew was helpful and the food, entertainment and services were spot on. I mention this because some of their competitors have gone to new lengths and even extremes to show you they are the largest.
Listen in the current way of the world. There is a definite have and have not mentality existing in our society. I find it a breath of fresh air that a mass market cruise line has kept its bottom line close to the line so people can still experience the wonderful world of cruising.
No one should feel upset at the end of the cruise when settling their bill on board. Yes a cruise will cost $1000. But you spent over $1000 for extra services, drinks and shore excursions.
I really feel the cruise line, including Carnival, should be selling the cruise at the $2000 figure so people will get the total picture up front.
As an agent I will not deny the cruise lines their due. I also will keep bringing up the fact that a more streamlined cost structure is needed especially for the new cruiser.
Carnival has been the best at this so far and like I said, we have seen the increase in customers.
I also find it funny how we are all the same in the cruise lines eyes when in fact they judge us by these so called passenger counts.
Of course other line's counts have gone down. The answer is very simple: the cost is higher.
So, I leave you with my comment for the day: the next time you are comparing cruise lines, remember this
YOU WILL GET WHAT YOU PAY FOR WITH CARNIVAL.
Check out our current deals at www.MyGoingPlaces.net, www.MyGoingPlacesTravel.com January 10, 2010
 HOW COLD ARE YOU?
For all of you who do not know it: THIS IS OUR SEASON.
Www.mygoingplacestravel.com really looks forward to the day after New Year’s Day.
IT IS THE TIME WHEN YOU START TO THINK ABOUT YOURSELF INSTEAD OF AUNT BESSIE.
IT IS THE TIME WHEN YOU THINK IT IS A LITTLE TO COLD FOR ME I WANT THE BEACH.
WELL CATCH OUR WAVE.
They call this the "Wave Season" in travel industry lingo. Low and behold it has been a large wave, bunches of families getting together more than ever to visit the new ships and the all inclusive resorts with all the amenities you could possibly dream of.
When the weather stays cold, our business heats up!
I can not begin to tell you how many people have told me “I am tired of looking online and I do not want to pay for my trip in full today.
Heck,
I do not know what is going to happen tomorrow.”
In our travel world I can only say there is help on the way.
Along with working out great ways to pay, we also will do all the research for you.
It is time to take a trip.
You are in good hands with www.mygoingplacestravel.com. We come with the same rates as any internet agency and travel insurance to boot.
We want your business and will do everything to prove it.
It’s time to "Catch the Wave" and plan that vacation of your dreams.
Now is the time to think of yourself when your hovering around the TV and saying “I gotta get outta here!!!”
We are waiting 24 /7 online and will respond quickly to all your requests.
Make your travel dreams come true!
Talk to you soon
Pete
www.mygoingplaces.net
SPECIAL CRUISE DATES:
April 18 exotic cruise from Tampa,
July 11th Bermuda cruise,
July 11thCanadian cruise,
August 22 Bermuda family cruise,
AND special Christmas and New Year’s cruises on the new Oasis of the Seas.
Now is the time! February 12, 2010
NEWS FLASH: I THINK ITS SNOWING?
 You are in your home watching the Tube and every other commercial is saying “visit us”: Cayman Island, Bahamas, Jamaica and Mexico.
Cruise lines do not stop telling you it is a “can't miss” vacation.
The cold weather has made this winter a gold mine for vacation ads and great ideas about where you should be going on your next vacation.
I have a different take on this.
We have been pleasantly surprised by all the support we have received. I tend to think it is more than just the weather. I believe its just good manners.
We try to say "Thank you and your welcome" to all of our clients, even the ones who do not book with us.
I would be very surprised to hear if any of the internet agencies offer this kind of service.
Simple manners with good service works. If you’re like me, spending $5000 and not knowing who your sending it to is a BIG DEAL!.
So when you see those ads get your best price and send it to us at gptravel@aol.com, you will be glad you did.
We plan on making you a customer for this year and next year.
In the mean time, THINK WARM THOUGHTS AND PLAN YOUR NEXT VACATION WITH US.
Thank you,
Pete Fanizzi
'TIS THE SEASON OF FAMILY VACATIONS!Every year we hear all the stories about family, great times and great food.
It has also become a new family tradition for some to get away together. Whether it be to celebrate Anniversaries, Sweet 16's and even graduations. Families are now travelling together more than ever to enjoy new adventures and new experiences on cruise ships and on resort vacations.
Of course we all know how good a family dinner can be, but as we age and as society changes we find the 2 parent working family looks forward to time together along with no responsibilty for 5, 7 or even 10 days on a cruise or resort style vacation. WWW.mygoingplacestravel.com can say with out question this has generated the most increase in our office business in recent years. I can say it has been nice speaking to new customers and finding out that people want service again. We are trying to keep up with all the new customers who are looking for a great deal and want someone to help them get the trip together.
Some recent family cruise are Oasis of the Seas for Easter, Family celebrations in July on Carnival , and old army buddies meeting in Ft. Lauderdale to board the fabulous Solstice cruise ship for a Caribbean cruise. Take a look for yourself some of these cruise and tours are available to everyone and you get the best price.
Some of the upcoming family trips available to everyone are listed here:
March Italy tours "Globus"
April 3rd "Oasis of the Seas" Caribbean
April 18th "Solstice" Caribbean
May 30th "Solstice" Caribbean
June 27th NCL "Gem" European cruise
July11th Carnival "Glory" Canada
July 11th Holland America "Veendam" Bermuda
These are just a few there are Ireland tours, Hawaiian tours and even Grand Canyon tours that are for everyone.
This year we are hoping to get there as a family. So when you're looking for something to do just think travel. We have gift certificates that we offer a discount so you can buy a travel certificate for $450 and receive value of $500.
Just what you need for the deposit on that cruise.Merry Christmas ! Happy Holidays to all and think Travel as a great idea for your new year.October 10, 2009TREND: Welcome Support from WholesalersIT'S NOT EVERY DAY I GET EXCITED about some new trends in our travel world. Well this trend is 16 years old but I tend to take my time when changing habits. Of course my current wholesalers have been above and beyond supportive and have  continued to help us combat the Internet myth of better pricing by matching every price there is. It would be nice if we could advertise this to our clients in a way that you could understand "IT'S A BUYERS MARKET" in the travel business. That means you save!
Since the day Ms. Mary Lee De Franco, our new Business development manager for MLT vacations, stopped by my office at www.mygoingplacestravel.comin Staten Island, NY, I knew things changing for the better. Delta Vacations, Continental Vacations and Worry-free Vacations wanted my business. WOW, that's refreshing!!
Cruise lines ask agents to support them every day. Now, this wholesaler is doing the same thing! They are helping www.mygoingplacestravel.com offer our clients good value without having any hidden messages in the offer.
 All my friends and regular customers who have called us recently know this, but to all of you who still question us: Business is doing well and it is with some great tour operations with total commitment to our customers and us that keep it good.
Travel is driven by price and with the combination of tour operation and airline support these guys get it.
Motivational guest speaker, Ms. Dayna Steele, rocked the house when she spoke about the Rock Star Principles of Success. She told us on the first day of the MLT University "Passion for what you do and knowledge of what works will lead you to success". I felt the passion from the Vice president of MLT  Terry Morrison?
I agree with MLT vacations, www.mygoingplacestravel.com can see the future and it is NOW, Our Time for our wonderful world of travel.
Thank you.
You can reach us at gptravel@aol.com or www.mygoingplacestravel.com #718-442-8000 November 7, 2009
Can you believe it ..the Yankees win and New York City is buzzing!
November is also the time you can win with the right planning. You can still have that dream vacation .. and Pay no interest!
That's right, MYGOINGPLACESTRAVEL.COM is making it very clear to all of you procrastinators. Now is the time to hold space on some of the newest most exciting cruise ships to ever come out.
The "Oasis of the Seas" from Royal Caribbean
The "Epic" from NCL
And the "Dream" from Carnival, their newest and largest ship ever.
There are tremendous deals out there for you and your family.
Simple deposits at no risk! You have until April 2010 to change your plans for all summer cruises.
NOW is the time to reserve the space for that fantastic cruise vacation. WHY you ask?
It is very simple: the cruise lines need you and are going to make every effort to get you on board.
With MYGOINGPLACESTRAVEL.COM no risk deposits you get to make one payment today and work out a simple payment plan with us over the next 6 months to avoid using that credit card.
NO INTEREST AND NO RISK!
THERE REALLY IS NO OTHER TRAVEL SERVICE OUT THERE OFFERING YOU THIS EASY WAY TO PUT SOME SIZZLE IN YOUR FUTURE FAMILY VACATION PLANS
Take a look at some of the deals for incredible experiences today.
We are always waiting for you. Thank you for your support and of course we plan on waiting as long as you need. We have been your friend in the business for over 35 years.
BTW: look out for photos from the Carnival Dream next week. I am lucky enough to be getting on board this coming week to give you a first hand review.
Hope to hear from you soon,
PeteSept. 20, 2009
Smooth sailing ahead for all looking for cruise deals with 2010!
www.mygoingplacestravel.com is not in competition with anyone in the cruise selling business.
Hundreds of customers already know www.mygoingplacestravel.com
has made it very easy for all cruisers. We are offering a simple no nonsense way of booking cruises. An educated cruiser is exactly who we want to take note.
Simply email us at GPTRAVEL@AOL.COM
Send us your date of departure and what category cabin you want on any ship, any cruise line.
We expect to match pricing and will take another $50 off of every cabin in addition. Some of our customers have been doing this with us for many years.
They simply know that they can go online with any reputable online service and send www.mygoingplacestravel.com the cruise booking information. When you do this you will receive an email and a phone call from us. That's right a phone call thanking you for your request along with giving you the price you want.
We do not want this to be a stressful time for you. We want this to be an exciting time. You’re going on a cruise vacation!
We want your business and will do most anything to show you the easy and fast way to save money and go on a great cruise vacation. Try us; you just may be in for a surprise!
You can trust a good agent.
See you next week.
Pete
We have "OASIS OF THE SEAS" GROUP SPACE
Easter 2010, End of JUNE 2010 AND Thanksgiving 2010.
www.mygoingplacestravel.com September 7, 2009 Labor Day
“YOU CAN TRUST A GOOD AGENT”
When you’re planning your next vacation I ask the question,
“Who can you trust?”
We ask this question many times each and every day about all products.
In the travel world I am bombarded with questions. What is the charge per bag today?
Why do cruise lines list on the confirmations this price is subject to change if the price of fuel goes higher? Why do they want me to pay for food at specialty restaurants when they are supposed to be including food onboard already?
What is the hotel responsible for?
Online when you purchase airline tickets and hotel reservations why do you have to pay for it all at once?
The answer to all these and many more questions is.
“YOU CAN TRUST A GOOD AGENT”
We speak to new clients each day. We are promoters of worldwide travel. The modern day travel business is a marketing business which happens to promote Travel and Tours around the world.
Every country relies on travel dollars to generate important tax and goods revenue for that particular country. I recently met a representative from Bangladesh promoting to me the longest stretch of unbroken beach in the world.
How many of us new this? The only thing I knew about Bangladesh was the George Harrison did a concert in New York City over 37 years ago to raise funds for Bangladesh. I know some of you will be asking who is George Harrison.
So when you read this and have a question about travel, ask your friendly pro to help out with the answer. We want your business and will do a lot for it.
www.mygoingplacestravel.com looks forward to helping your save some $ and also gives you alternatives to consider when planning your family vacation, friends getaway and that special honeymoon. You can call us 718-442-8000 or email gptravel@aol.com.
We want your business and will do everything to gain your Trust!
August 22, 2009
from CNN.com/travel August 12, 2009
ARE TRAVEL AGENTS MAKING A COMEBACK?
Online travel sites flooded with overwhelming options, all claiming the best deals. Extra fees nestled into the fine print amid blaring advertisements. Pounding 16 digits into the telephone after you've booked the wrong flight before finally getting a human voice.
A few weeks ago, Darin Kaplan, a tech-savvy 27-year-old California restaurant manager, clicked his mouse hundreds of times, surfing the vast choices offered by online travel booking Web sites like Expedia.com and Orbitz.com to plan his 28th birthday cruise to Mexico before he gave up in frustration.
"It's a cut-and-paste experience when you're booking online. None of these sites are going to tell me what I can do with different options," said Kaplan, who uses the Internet for many purchases, including his basketball shorts and music tickets. "Travel agents know what they are talking about. It's more comforting to hand my money to someone who has the knowledge and experience."
Some travelers like Kaplan are finding themselves defecting from travel booking sites like Travelocity.com or airline sites like Delta.com. They are going back the travel agent, an industry that many industry experts once thought to be passé with the advent of online booking.
Fewer travelers are enjoying using the Web to plan and buy trips, according to a study last week by Forrester Research, a market research company. About 46 percent of U.S. leisure travelers enjoyed using the Internet to book travel this year, down from 53 percent in 2007.
Difficult site navigation and presentation on travel company sites and hotel and airline sites are causing a growing number of travelers to shift away from the Web and consider using alternative methods of booking travel.
"People are saying 'I don't understand my options, and I would like to talk to someone who can do all the searching and tell me what's available,' " said Henry Hartevelt, the analyst who wrote the Forrester study. "Major travel agencies have absolutely failed in their responsibility to innovate and think of creative new ways to help their customers shop."
In the brick-and-mortar travel agent model, a trained agent meets with the traveler in person or establishes a relationship over the phone. For a fee, they discuss the travel options they have researched.
These travel agencies began losing their monopoly on the industry during the late 1990s, when airlines began to sell tickets online and travel giants like Expedia.com exploded onto the scene, quickly gobbling market share by introducing the quick, do-it- yourself model.
In 1995, there were 37,000 brick-and-mortar travel agencies, according to the American Society of Travel Agents. Now, only 18,000 exist after many merged or folded.
"What the Internet has done is given us a nation that knows the price of everything and the value of nothing," said Bill Maloney, CEO of the American Society of Travel Agents. "How do you know if a hotel is actually a good value or if it's overpriced? You have these online generalists and these individual specialists."
Travel agent Nancy Cutter of Court Travel Ltd. in Charlotte, North Carolina, and a half-dozen other agencies across the country say they have experienced a surge in returning clients, who said travel Web sites were confusing and unhelpful.
In several instances, brick-and-mortar agents say they were able to offer deals at the same price as, and even undercut, the travel agent models, dispelling the belief that the cheapest rate is online.
Travel agents have deals with suppliers that can sometimes enable them to offer lower prices than on the Web. They also have time to cancel tickets for free, compared with some non-refundable tickets sold on the Web. Expedia.com said it recently waived the fee for travelers changing certain flights.
"Just because you can go out and buy Turbo Tax doesn't mean it's the best answer for everyone," Cutter said. "Some people will still go to an accountant. Booking travel can get complicated, and it's just not as easy as it looks."
Travel agents don't discount the value of online travel agencies, which can be useful for booking simple, short trips, but they say complex itineraries require more expertise from a professional. Many online travel companies agree that an agent may be valuable in planning a detailed honeymoon that includes a tour of vineyards in France or a family excursion to top snorkeling and kangaroo-watching destinations in Australia.
"If you're the type of traveler who needs hand-holding up front, then sure, a travel agent would be great, but you can usually find that same information on the Web," said Brian Ek, a spokesman for Priceline.com, a travel company famous for letting bidders set their own price. He said the agents available by phone at his company can help facilitate a sale and customize cruises for travelers.
Online travel companies say they have made functionality improvements on their sites in recent years. For example, Expedia.com, the world's largest online travel agency, offers a tool that can let customers compare seats on an airplane, with ratings on how comfortable a seat is and how much leg room is available. They also have hotel reviews and even Web tours of rooms to help travelers decide.
And, research shows that online travel model is poised to grow. Even in a recession, when companies and individuals are scaling back on travel, Expedia.com saw a 22 percent air transaction growth rate in the last quarter.
But Susan D. Tanzman of Martin's Travel and Tours in California, who has worked as an agent for 35 years, points out that agents follow up with travelers before and after the trip. If the traveler needs help, the agency can offer assistance. They often work 24 hours a day.
JoAnne Kochneff, owner of midsize agency Travel by Gagnon in Michigan, said agents can give the personal attention a site cannot. Kochneff's office provides a homey feel, with agents offering freshly baked cookies for clients who stop by to chat about their trips.
"They have personal experience traveling in the area, so they can give you a personal recommendation," said Frances Mosser, 67, of Kentucky, on her reason why she switched to the travel agent model this summer.
Mosser and her husband booked a trip to St. Melo in France with a travel agent. The agent helped them devise a way to reduce travel time by taking Ryan Air between countries.
"I don't think we could have planned the trip without her," Mosser said October 26, 2008
CRUISE LINES TAKING ADVANTAGE OF CLIENTS
HEY! YOU KNOW WHAT?
I sell cruises everyday but I have to tell you this FUEL surcharge crap has got to stop!
None of the so-called experts in travel are screaming about this.
You may ask "WHY NOT?"
I say that they do not want to ruin any relationship they built while writing their complimentary articles about cruising.
SO I AM SAYING IT IT IS A LOAD OF YOU KNOW WHAT!
Any one who knows the industry will say quietly how easy it is to keep complaints quiet IN CRUISING.
Yes, we know it is a nice vacation but come on $7 per person per day fuel surcharge??
Why not raise the price? In fact, that is what they did. They have raised prices and blamed it on the oil companies.
As of today 10/22/2008 the cost of fuel is way down. Then how come the fuel surcharges have not been lifted offering the cruisers a nice break?
It is one thing to say we have to deal with current market conditions and it is quite frankly another to say we made over $90 million this 3rd quarter and we still need the surcharge.
If your a seasoned cruise traveler you probably receive bonuses or promotional discounts that still seem to keep your costs reasonable.
It is the NEW client that needs to be aware of all the choices out their in order to make a smart decision. There are choices out there for your travel dollar. Make sure you ask the right questions. (Call me. I can help.) There are all types of cruises.
This is why some of our so called big mass market ships hold blocked space for an entire year and find out 60 days out their is no business.
Watch the advertisements closely so you will see who wants your business most.
We are ready to assist as always www.mygoingplacescruise.com
*NOTE SAVE FUEL SURCHARGE WITH US WE REALIZE IT IS TOUGH OUT THERE.
SO ANY CRUISE BOOKING WITH MYGOINGPLACESTRAVEL.COM YOU CAN SAVE FUEL SURCHARGES.
JUST SEND /FORWARD COPY OF THIS BLOG FOR THIS DISCOUNT! January 11, 2009
EVERYONE ASKS ME
HOW is everything in the travel business
Are people traveling and
Is business slow ?
Well the answer is not so simple ..
Yes www.mygoingplaces.net is very busy with loyal customers who have grown up in an age where going on VACATION IS NOT SOMETHING THEY PLAN FOR but is something they EXPECT TO DO during the course of every year.
It is a fact that this generation of 20 and 30 years olds have been very fortunate to have parents who tried to go on a special vacation sometime during their childhood due to the overwhelming advertising and marketing done by Tourism companies and countries that demand our attention for the well being of their own economy.
What does the Caribbean produce besides hotels on great beaches that Americans want to visit?
Of course they do have some other products and do sustain some other economies. But Tourism is usually the #1 way they actually sustain local government and local services.
When I was 10 years old in 1968 our vacation was going out to the beach house in Mastic Beach, Long Island and it was great. If I compare this to my 2 daughters ages 21 and 16 both of whom have been on 4 different cruises on at least 4 different cruise lines (Carnival, Royal Caribbean,Disney and Princess) already and traveled to Europe and around the USA, Canada and even Africa. Needless to say their perspective on travel is completely different then mine at their young ages .
So when your asking about the Travel business ask me how many first time travelers have you sent away lately? It's a better question for me to try to answer.
As for the travel business, I expect it to be very active for a long time and, of course, expect the vacations to be more creative than ever ..
Just remember, www.mygoingplaces.net is here to stay and with your continued support will be offering you a friend in the business NO CHARGE ..
As a matter of fact, for those already using us, we let you know we like when you send us all those deals online ..
they are the same packages WE use to save you money..
Most importantly though, you have to tell us about them ..
WE WANT YOUR BUSINESS AND THANK YOU FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT !
Pete Fanizzi
www.mygoingplaces.net, www.mygoingplacestravel.com www.sicruiseclub.com
Watch for the launch of www.sicruiseclub.com coming soon! May 3, 2009
Swine Flu, Pirates, Economy.
WHAT ARE YOU WAITING 4?
MyGoingPlacesTravel.com has been busier than ever helping clients make there dreams come true...some of those dreams are taking the FLAM Train in Norway, traveling in Europe by train, riding the rapids on the Colorado river or having their special wedding on board a Royal Caribbean cruise ship or at a Special destination.
 These are just some of the types of vacations you’re not going to plan online.
Your friendly agents at MyGoingPlacesTravel.com have been doing this for over 35 years!
And I still have to tell people to call or just email me at gptravel@aol.com for fast efficient service.
It amazes me when some customers tell me that they found a great deal online. And when I ask about the details I always find out that it took them a couple of nights, literally 5 or 6 hours of online searching and re-searching, to find what they hope is what they were looking for.
Just 1 email to me gets them 2 or more choices of the same trip and usually beat the rate you found online.
THIS IS WHAT WE DO FOR A LIVING AND WE ARE GOOD AT IT!!
We do this with our online sign up and as a bonus you can save $50 off any 7 day vacation or cruise.
How is that for speed?
That is my point!
I received an email newsletter from a very good friend who is a VP of sales. He remarked that he prefers having me setting up his travel because his time is valuable to him. 'Let me spend my time doing what I do well and have you do what you do well'.
The bottom line is: IT WILL COST YOU MORE $$ TO DO THE LEG WORK YOURSELF!! WE PROVE IT EVERY DAY!!
In this online Travel world no one is going to give you something for nothing.
Airlines, hotels and cruise lines are constantly being brought into the news as the losers in the year 2009 due to the economy. What they do not say is that the people who are travelling are having the times of their lives!
Watch AND OBSERVE the advertising carefully: when did Disney ever give FREE ANYTHING???
Airline prices as low as they were 10 years ago to fly to Miami from NYC?? What’s that all about?
And cruises for 7 days that are consistently under $700 per person??
Question the motives of these large businesses….
So I say to you: WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?
Online booking Back to travel agents
Published: Saturday, October 6, 2008
More stories than usual are popping up in conversations about travel.
Frustrated customers of online travel engines have been experiencing a growth problem that the online agencies are trying to combat with live phone reps to assist with their booking requests.
Well isn't that a new concept? Speak to a live person for advice and price protection along with a multitude of others reasons to find a good agent and be honest with them.
For some reason the travel agents of the past earned a reputation of not going over all the details and certain requirements of the vacations a customer was planning.
NEWS FLASH: No matter how much you go over the plans we as agents do not guarantee the plane will leave on time,
the weather will be perfect
and the people you encounter on the plane and at the hotel will be pleasant...
Of course we hope this is the case. But, any seasoned traveler will tell you to roll with it. I personally find the biggest mistake most agents make is not being very clear and specific.
It is important to have some one to speak to in a difficult time.
I could go on and on about difficulties customers have had with many aspects of their vacation. It is also important to tell an agent about the good times we learn from the customer as well. I take this opportunity to highlight just one actual experience.
A couple of years ago Royal Caribbean cruise line had a scheduled cruise to Bermuda. The cruise ended up in Nova Scotia,Canada due to extreme weather conditions. We had about 20 customers on this ship, one family 14 members and another 2. This made local news and we heard about the complaints of some of our customers who were very irate.
We also heard about one family group who never called us, we called them to find out if everything was ok. Much to our surprise the family had a wonderful time and took the change of destination in stride.
Now I am not saying the customers who were upset did not have a right to complain. I am saying you can take the trip and have a good time or you can make yourself miserable. We have to accept that the change was made for the customers benefit because of weather conditions. As a customer we have to decide to make the best of this type of change or make ourselves miserable. As a full time agent I always try and make this clear to the customer. Have a great time, you paid for it. Enjoy the vacation!
It is very nice to convey this directly to all customers..something the internet will never be able to do.
This is one of the reasons why I am confident that our industry agents are here to stay, at least the ones that make the effort to tell a customer thank you and explain we want your business.
Call us any time or email..www.mygoingplacestravel.com
Pete Fanizzi September 21, 2008
See Blog on the right written August 2007
It was written 13 months ago. It is a true testament to writing things down if you really want them to happen. I wrote this knowing I was going to achieve a goal. Most importantly it helped me to improve my life. A couple of foot notes on the blog below written in August 07, I did reach the summit of Kilimanjaro on July 17th, and my weight currently is hovering around 255 which totals 35 lbs lost over 19 months.
It is really important to realize something you want to do and achieve. It does not have to be climbing a mountain but does have to do with setting goals and following through on them. Some of my closest friends have been very supportive of this and it is truly a fantastic feeling to see things change around you because YOU feel better about yourself . I always tell my daughters in order to really love someone you have to LOVE YOURSELF FIRST. When you are happy and in good spirits it really does rub off onto others around you.
Enjoy this Blog for it is a testament to Living Life to its fullest in whatever way possible.
Pete Fanizzi US airlines in June carried fewer passengers
11:23 AM EDT September 11, 2008
NEW YORK (MarketWatch) -- U.S. airlines saw fewer passengers on their planes in June compared to last year, according to data released Thursday by the Bureau of Transportation Statistics. The number of domestic passengers in the month fell 3.3% while international traffic increased 2.4%. Taken together, traffic in June slipped 2.7% to 67.8 million, the bureau said. Southwest Airlines carried the most domestic passengers that month while AMR Corp.'s American Airlines carried the most international travelers.
Pete says:
This comes as no surprise to anyone who has been watching ..
Since 2001 the airlines have been in a free fall not only because the traveling public has changed its ways, but the airlines have had a multitude of new social and economic factors that have affected their business structure..
Less flights and canceling non stop flights to various destinations will only continue to afford the airlines any way of breaking a profit.
If prices go to high it will be because the traveling public will demand the destination. The price will not be because the airline wants to raise the cost.
They have enough headaches to deal with. Negative press is something they prefer to avoid. Pricing themselves out of certain markets will take place but this will be a planned and organized reduction of cost to the airline.
Which ever airline has the market will continue to hold certain markets.
The days of combating big airlines are over and the days of considering international airlines that are unfamiliar are here!
Even Jet Blue has certain seats they charge more for, something they said they would never do?
I expect this trend to continue ..
Stay away from the high season flights ..try the off peak times. There are deals, you have to be flexible.
I expect the business to grow but this growth will be controlled by the airlines ..The days of finding a flight that is half full are probably over.
My wish for the airlines would be for one of them to put the correct price on flights based on miles flown.
One of my most recent dilemmas was with a local HS track team ..We paid $75 more for flights to North Carolina over flights to Portland, Oregon..both flights departed from Newark.
THIS IS ABSURD ...
but is the reality of flying in the USA.
Have a nice day ..send comments to gptravel@aol.com July 13 - July 24, 2008
Peter Fanizzi Treks Mt. Kilimanjaro
Along with Good Earth Tours & SafarIs, Pete & Alex Fanizzi trekked to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro. "It was incredibly difficult, but we did it!! We made it to the top!"
Achieving the summit of Mt. Kilimanjaro is something anyone can aspire to.
Good Earth Tours took great care to provide us with a safe, challenging, exciting and memorable adventure.
With assistance from our lead guide Ernest (a.k.a.” Hemmingway”), we walked on a continuous incline following the code "walk high and sleep low". This meant we would be hiking anywhere from 3 - 4000 meters in height over our daily trek of five to seven hours which would help us acclimate to the altitude.
With the support of Mike Lanza of Legends Sporting Goods of Staten Island, Alexandra my daughter and I were able to visit a local community center and bring gifts including soccer balls and jerseys. The kids couldn't wait to put them on! They were very appreciative and humble giving us a beautiful first day in Arusha, Tanzania.
We are confident that we will be supporting this group throughout the years to come.
Our first day of the trek included 10 hours of travel. Five were on a long and dusty road on our Good Earth vehicle filled with supplies, guides and porters. Upon arrival at the start at Rongai route gateway we proceeded to hike 5 hours through cornfields and rainforest spotting an occasional bamboo looking for something to eat.
This first day proved to be long and more intense than any step master machine in terms of workout.
Our guide, Ernest, had some concerns on this first day. My only concern was when would I stop sweating.....
Sleep was easy this night.
The second day proved to be 7 hours of a steady climb, walking high and then low, continuously. Our team was proficient in serving us delicious meals, breakfast, lunch and dinner set in some of the most obscure locations you would ever think.
Third day brought us straight up to Malwenzi, which is the second highest peak with a much more dramatic presence. Camping in the shadow of Malwenzi Hut was an awesome experience.
Who would have thought hiking for 4 hours uphill would seem acceptable and well within my physical limits!
Day 4 we departed early morning to Kibo Hut at the base of Mt. Kilimanjaro. A gradual incline on a well used trail brought us closer to our goal. At 1pm we had lunch, rested, 5pm ate dinner and rested some more in preparation of our midnight attempt to reach Mt. Kilimanjaro, both peaks. When you are there you realize just how many people are looking for the same experience. But thanks to our Good Earth Tour operator we camped around a bend away from the hustle and bustle of much larger groups.
We were fortunate to be with our own private group of 2, just family. To be honest I was on a mission. I only needed to speak to my daughter and our guides and I was happy.
Now for more rest before this climb.
"Baba, are you up?" is all I remember at 11pm July 20, 2008. Headlamp on, layered clothing in place, we began our ascent which took approximately 6 hours to Gilman's Point where we witnessed the sunrise. Quickly, which amounted to a snails pace, we continued to Uhuru Point, our ultimate goal of 5895 meters. The air was thin, the hiking slow, focused on 1 step in front of the other with great support from our guides, Ernest and David who encouraged us to 'achieve the goal' we made it!
Thank you Good Earth Tours, Ernest and David, for your great support. Without it I am certain stopping to rest could have meant turning around and going down.
For me, stepping off Gillman's Point unto the next portion of trail and looking over my right shoulder was a dream coming true. The enormous volcano crater filled with glistening snow from the sunrise was in full view and very impressive. Trying hard not to look forward but only at my feet was not easy since we still had over 800 meters in height as well as many more in distance to go all up hill!
Alex was experiencing headaches, not uncommon at this altitude. I was concerned but was glad to have our guides to bolster her confidence. Never doubting Alex’s physical ability but concerned about any altitiude issues which of course we could not control was always in the back of my mind. How could it not. I am her father. Alexandra proved to be up to the test and passed with flying colors!
Having Alex with me on this trip of a lifetime was a fathers dream. To say I was proud would be an understatement.
Having a family member reach for the top and grab hold has been something my own father has instilled in me. My own father lived life to its fullest and of course was one of the first calls I made when we returned. One of the simple sayings he lives by is “because its there” which Mt. Kilimanjaro was!.
It is always amazing to me how we can easily be diverted from some things that give us great pleasure.
Celebrating a birthday on top of Africa seemed big enough for me . Having Alexandra with me on this adventure was like the icing on the cake!
Physically there was no question that Alex was able to make this and I was glad the experienced guides kept her going.
I was dealing with shear exhaustion. Not having the headaches but simply pushed to limits I had never been before.
Reaching the summit, Uhuru, is a reality described only by those that have felt the physical demands that come from these experiences.
I can only say that Ernest kept pointing out "look at the crater, look at the size of this crater!" And as I gazed over where we were it gave a confidence and feeling of life experienced to its fullest!
I have to say I enjoyed this 50th birthday present. These words are the closest that I can come to sharing the feelings and emotions felt over the 12 days. Unnecessary Roughness
I have someone working with me for many years now. One of his favorite comments when a customer doesn't listen or appreciate our efforts he calls out: "Unnecessary Roughness".
Which makes me think, "why would anyone want to search 'online' to try to find the best deal for that cruise or vacation package?"
We pride ourselves in being short and right to the point for your vacation needs. I've had many people call me and say "I found something on line." I laugh a little bit and think to myself we have customers now on Mygoingplacestravel.com from all over the globe! So, it always concerns me when a potential customer is not sure whether I can meet or beat an advertised online package.
--- WWW.MyGoingPlacesTravel.com IS 'Online' ---
So, when you're working in the evening on your home computer don't forget to send us your request. We can guarantee you will get a straight answer and a fair price 'online'! So, stay away from "Unnecessary Roughness" because travel is supposed to be FUN!
See you next time.
Pete
Travelers Turning to Traditional Agents More Frequently
to the benefit of local online agency www.mygoingplacestravel.com
Mygoingplacestravel.com appears to be making a comeback, according to 2008 National Leisure Travel report.
In fact, according to the findings, leisure travelers are increasingly turning to a traditional travel agent this year - to obtain travel information and prices, or to make a reservation.
In 2008, nearly 4 in 10 leisure travelers used a travel agent to obtain information and prices, or to make a reservation. Specifically, 29% used a traditional travel agent to obtain information and prices, while 27% used a travel agent to make a reservation.
Among those seeking information/reservations for airlines and hotels, the number of travelers who used a traditional agent is even higher - 4 in 10. In addition, 4 in 10 airline/hotel travelers are planning to use a traditional travel agent during the next 12 months. These findings represent a significant increase over last year.
Demographically, mature (born 1955 or earlier) airline/hotel travelers are much more likely to have used a traditional travel agent than both Generation X and baby boomer travelers.
In terms of future use of traditional travel agents, there was little difference between the generations in the likelihood of using a traditional travel agent.
Agents influence decisions and save the travel consumer money. WWW.mygoingplacestravel.com continuously shows that simple vacation plans for family and business travellers can save $50-$100 off any traditional all inclusive vacation as well as cruise vacations."The reason is very simple" says Owner Pete Fanizzi, "A typical vacation of $5000 for a family of 4 can be reduced with honest negotiation from the customer. We want their travel dollars and are willing to help them save if they do some of the work."
Travel agents are very influential on travelers' decisions. Six in 10 airline/hotel travelers who used a traditional travel agent perceived the agent to be influential on their travel decisions.
More than four in 10 airline/hotel travelers felt their travel agent influenced their decision regarding a vacation package, tour and cruise line. In addition, nearly four in 10 felt that travel agents influenced decisions relating to travel insurance and destination. .
Reasons for the Return to Travel Agents
The stated reasons for using a traditional travel agent vary. Nearly nine in 10 airline/hotel travelers said a travel agent's ability to find the best available fares or rates was extremely or very important when selecting an agent. But just over eight in 10 also cited the importance of an agent's product knowledge.
Other factors important to choosing a traditional travel agent include: the agent's ability to provide alternatives and assistance while on a trip (approximately six in 10); convenience of agency's location (nearly five in 10); the recommendation of a friend. We beleive in this fact most of all .Our customers have used our services for many years ..and in most cases when they find a deal online they still will check with us because they know we are willing to make a deal with them for their loyalty.
WWW.MYGOINGPLACESTRAVEL.COM has managed to be a small local agency along with branching out worldwide with services like overnight delivery of tickets anywhere in the USA.
Our brand has found a strong network of following in England as well.
Though the majority of survey respondents indicated that online travel agencies usually offer the best prices for leisure travel services and are the most convenient way to arrange travel plans, nearly 40% cited traditional travel agents for prices and convenience.Customers constantly comment that we like to know the person who is behiond the website .
"That is my family. for over 35 years we have adjusted to many different travel climates and have continued to satisfy even the most ardent online customers."
45% said they usually get the best prices for leisure travel services from traditional agents and 31% said traditional travel agents are the most convenient way to arrange travel plans;
Based on the statistical results, partnership concluded that there are four main reasons for the return of leisure travelers to traditional travel agents:
1. Consumers are feeling more time impoverished than ever, so having a travel agent do the work for travelers makes the travel planning process easier;
2. Consumers are much more wary about information they find online and depending on the expertise and knowledge of a travel agent ensures that consumers feel more comfortable with their travel choices;
3. Perhaps because they feel more time impoverished and because they are unsure of online information, leisure travelers are looking for someone else to take responsibility for arranging their travel plans
4. Finally, "consumers' interest and respect for credentials are increasing." August 8, 2010
Continental airlines riding an airplane like taking the subway?
"It's a great idea," says aviation analyst Michael Boyd. "Any reduction in human contact between employee and customer is good these days."
Despite technological advancements, agents have more to do now than 30 years ago to get the plane out of the gate, Boyd says. "It takes more manpower. They let technology drive manpower rather than the other way around."
"As long as you have someone to tell grandma where to stick the paper," he says, "you're fine."
Ok. This is a piece of an article about self boarding experiment going on at Houston International Airport. The comment is from an airline analyst. I copied it to make sure I read it correctly "any reduction in human contact between employee and customer is good these days"
Now I am 52 years old and the fact I can read something like this today I find frightening..The airlines are using this type of advice to make decisions on moving people on their planes? I work hard for a living and I am very proud of my customer relations , I speak to customers every day and have to be honest would not know how to provide customer service any other way, I hope the airlines figure out that people are people we need to communicate makes us go , helps us out and makes us human. I also realize that new technology is good my web site www.mygoingplacestravel.com receives hundreds of emails weekly which I am very pleased about. All I want to say is with analyst's like this guy it does concern me. Grandma likes to tell you her stories and all the nice people she meets on vacation. This guy can stick it where ever he wants but please get him out of this industry?
Any comments please send them to me ..I would love to hear them..
thanks
Happy travels from www.mygoingplacestravel.com
Pete F.
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August 15, 2010
Is everyone into travel like me?
In my world of luxurious vacations all around the world it is a fact there are 3-4 different categories of what is considered a good vacation.. Jersey shore anyone .. Lake George NY, 1/2 a day at the casinos..with dinner?
In my madman type of existence the French Riviera is a possible trip, climbing Kilimanjaro is another unique vacation or skiing the Alps, Rockies or even skiing during the summer in Chile?
I guess the wide array of what is considered a vacation causes me to sit back and tell everyone my Travel world is pretty cool!
I enjoy hearing and finding special trips for family and friends and I guess sometimes I forget to tell this to everyone. Call me because I know you think you found a better deal than I could get you. But after 35 years www.mygoingplacestravel.com must be doing something right.
I like looking at Muir Woods Redwood trees and trying to figure out how those trees have lasted as long as they have.
It goes without saying there are many things in this world that continue to amaze me and make me take many steps backwards to appreciate them. I am glad to be promoting travel to all of you.
I look forward to helping with the next trip to Cancun as much as I do the next European cruise.
Watch for our fall travel seminars about cruising and many other types of travel.
Join me, the wine is on the house ..
BTW: Macchu Pichu anyone?
I really do want to go there.
And if your interested let me know because it Looks like it maybe a year from now.
Thanks for reading
email me at gptravel@aol.com
Thanks,
Pete |
