The Travel Industry News - Editorial Archives

July / August, 2006

THE ART OF TRAVEL ...

One of my favorite tales is Cervantes’ fable of ‘Don Quixote’ and his quest for ‘right’ by tilting with the gigantic windmills. Of course poor ‘Don’ was eccentric to say the least, while I am only ‘mildly different’, although in truth I sometimes see more ‘windmills’ in my path than should really exist. Is it coincidence that Holland - land of windmills -has produced such great artists?

I have recently taken a two day per week job in an art gallery in Stanwood - ‘Gallery By The Bay’ - I’m there on Wednesdays and Sundays. And ... it reaffirms my marketing belief that retail outlets should attempt to have ‘something’ for everyone, our gallery has prints from $50 to a classical bronze nude which weighs in at $30,000.

Recent new advertisers and news releases received at TIN point out the variety of discoveries awaiting today's travelers. However, just as you need the ‘Windmill Airlines , Cruise Companies and sometimes mega Wholesalers”, the small operators and towns need you ... and want you.

I’m aware that they won’t represent the bulk of your income, but you know they do represent an opportunity to gain new clients for you, particularly if you’re the one who has pointed out these fun opportunities that they can take advantage of .. and very often at a price that affords excellent value for money .. a theme you can repeat when selling them a future cruise.

If you have a website and/or newsletter include these type of mini-vacations or just plain events, show your clients that it’s not just about commissions but providing them with options.

Another reason to add these ‘smaller’ companies is that many of them will consider paying you a a small fee for inclusion in your marketing effort .. and you are making an effort .. right? How about ‘Art Tour’ groups to Holland, France ... or Stanwood ??

The following are reminders of the new ’Don Quixote's’ who battle to build their own futures ... and you can be their ’Knights in Shining Armour’ ... or ’sidekicks’ !

EXPERIENCE VACATIONS has an ad in this issue, but stop and ask yourself, who else offers a ’Nevada Opal Dig’, ’Cowboy Living’, ’Outdoor Watercolor Painting’, hey who knows they may ’hang’ in The Gallery By The Bay one day. Did I mention ‘Native American Living’? Don’t tell me families wouldn’t love these mini-vacations - call 800-576-0156 or visit: www.ExperienceVacations.com.

“EAGLES & ORCAS” Kayak Tours in the San Juan Island, they recently ran an insert with us. Call 800-647-4621 or visit: www.outdoorodysseys.com

GOLF VACATIONS in Kamloops,B.C. packages available from now thru October. Four great courses including ‘Rivershore Golf Links’, a 4 star rating from Golf Digest . Kamloops is also an excellent destination for biz meetings, reunions and retreats. Info on activities /accommodations 800-662-1994- www.tourismkamloops.com

LOCAL ESCAPES has launched a new ‘inbound & local travel business ’ serving Seattle and the greater Northwest. They emphasize personalized and interactive experiences. Local Escapes offer an insight into wildlife, history, art and culture. Call 877-780-4162 or explore their website at: www.localescapes.com

How about just an old fashioned festival for clients and even you, to enjoy .. and I’m giving you plenty of notice, OKTOBERFEST in LEAVENWORTH, WA. .. which they call “the next best thing to being in Munich”. Your clients will have so much fun you’ll be able to organize a group to Germany for 2007, the World Cup is over and Germany will probably more than welcome your attention next year. Leavenworth’s happenings will occur on three weekends with live music, German food, arts & crafts and activities for the whole family. Sept 30-31, Oct 6-7 and Oct 13-14. If you haven’t visited Leavenworth you really should. Schedule: www.oktoberfestleavenworth.com

Have you got CLIPPER VACATIONS 2006 brochure? They have a wide variety of ‘Northwest’ (that includes B.C.) packages available that will appeal to local and visitors alike. Call 800-888-25535 or visit: www.clippervacations.com.

Ride forth gallant TA‘s, fear not the odds, for your trusty steed ‘Knowledge’ will carry you to great victories and fair maidens will shower you with favors .. or you could settle for an ‘upgrade or two’ and the gratitude of your clients.

Meanwhile .. I await your return from the fields of survival and bid you visit this ageing\ Quixote at my most recent ‘Windmill’ .. but only on a Wednesday or Sunday.

David ( Jouster ) Bond

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