The Travel Industry Needs Intrapreneurs

Yep, that's correct - just like the blog post title states.....the travel industry needs intrapreneurs.

What's an intrapreneur? It's an entrepreneur who turns ideas into profitable products and services as an employee of a company.

In today's challenging economy, intrapreneurship hasn't never been more important for the travel industry and among tour operators, tourist offices, suppliers and other tourism-related organizations.

Intrapreneurs provide companies with an entrepreneurial mindset, approach and spark - which in turns brings new revenues to companies by discovering, developing and tapping new markets and opportunities.

As intrapreneurship is a vital key to the continued growth of the travel industry and trade, I plan to begin blogging and writing on this subject more than ever before in the coming days, weeks and months.

In meantime, you can check out my other blog on the very topic of intrapreneurship. Here is the link:

www.IntrapreneurEntrepreneur.com

Cruise Incentives: A Promising Specialty for Travel Agents (by Ana Figueroa)

One of the growth markets within the cruise business is incentive travel.

TravelMarketReport.com just published it's second story by Ana Figueroa in a series on cruise meetings and incentives. Here is the opening statement of the article by Ana:

"As the cruise industry sets its sights on the meetings and incentive market with renewed vigor, there are expanded opportunities for cruise-selling travel agents to reel in business clients."

Here is the full article link to Ana's most recent article:
http://www.travelmarketreport.com/articles/Cruise-Incentives-A-Promising-Specialty-for-Travel-Agents

To view Ana's first story in the series published on Sep 13, click here:
Cruise Meetings Sail Onto Meeting Planners’ Radar

AgritourismWorld  website joins  Group Travel Family

Read full story at:
http://www.grouptravelleader.com/Article.aspx?id=974

Website: AgritourismWorld.com

Agritourism has been growing in popularity among tour planners in recent years, and now there is a site dedicated to helping the group travel planner find farms, markets and destinations that are tourism-friendly. AgritourismWorld is an online directory that lists more than 1,000 agritourism-related destinations and that encourages tourists to visit the countryside.

AgritourismWorld recently joined The Group Travel Family, along with the BankTravel Conference, Going On Faith Conference, Boomers in Groups, the African American Travel Conference and Group Leaders of America. The addition of agritourism to the organization will integrate farm-related tourism into the group travel industry by creating an awareness of the market to more than 12,500 leaders of travel clubs and groups.

“We openly welcome AgritourismWorld to the group travel industry,” said Charlie Presley, founder of The Group Travel Family. “Agritourism is a valued part of every group’s travel plans, and this site makes it easy to visit a farm, market, bed-and-breakfast or one of over 1,000 destinations.”

At the AgritourismWorld site, a group can search for farms that cater to tourists by state or product. The site allows visitors to find farms that specialize in everything from honey production to alpaca farming. Once group leaders locate farms or destinations of interest, they can click on the farms’ websites to find travel details, ask questions of the owners or schedule group visits.

AgritourismWorld is already the top Google site under the search word “agritourism,” and Presley has plans to increase the reach of the site.

“We have over 1,000 farms listed today, and we will double that by year’s end,” he said.

In addition, the site will target international as well as domestic agritourism destinations. There are more than 100 international listings to date.

The wide range of interests the site offers is a true tourism value. Visitors can find information on destinations from Hardy’s Reindeer Ranch in Illinois to Biship’s Pumpkin Farm in California, Ten Horse Farm in Georgia and Vashon Farmers Market in Washington. The site will help travel planners find more than 75 interests: Listings include seasons, events, animals, food and beverages, gardens and plants, markets, overnight stays and unusual features, such as corn mazes.

Farms and agritourism destinations that are interested in a free listing may visit the site and submit their venue. Groups can go to www.agritourismworld.com and plan a tour year-round.

For further information, contact Gini Dolence at 800-628-0993 gdolence@grouptravelfamily.com.

Business and Educational Seminars on Growth Markets in Tourism at 2013 NTA Convention (Travel Exchange)

If you're looking for a convention or tradeshow featuring a wide range of educational and business seminars on growth markets in tourism, consider attending the upcoming NTA Convention (Travel Exchange), which will be held Jan 2013 in Orlando, FL.

Here are some of the business and educational seminars (on growth markets in tourism) to be held at Travel Exchange: :
+ Adventure travel
+ Accessibility travel
+ Culinary travel
+ Dark tourism
+ Faith-based travel
+ Family travel
+ Sustainable travel

For more information or to view the entire list of available seminars/educational sessions, click here:
http://businessbuilder.ntaonline.com/convention/Education.aspx

300 Trade Professionals & Planners Participated in 9th Annual Going on Faith Conference

Read original article at:
http://www.grouptravelleader.com/Article.aspx?id=991

Rock Hill puts on a show for GOF Conference

By Mac Lacy

Nearly 300 faith-based travel planners, travel industry destinations and tour operators gathered in Rock Hill, South Carolina, Aug. 21-23 for the ninth annual Going On Faith Conference operated by The Group Travel Family. The Going On Faith Conference is the group travel industry’s only faith-based travel conference and this year’s event drew delegates from across North America, plus international destinations including Israel, the Bahamas, Jordan and other countries.

“This conference is establishing a loyal following of those travel destinations that truly seek out faith-based travel groups,” said Joe Cappuzzello, CEO of The Group Travel Family. “From pilgrimages to youth retreats and traditional travel groups, faith-based tourism has carved out a recognizable niche within the overall group travel industry.”

Conference highlights included two evening events hosted by the Rock Hill/York County Convention and Visitors Bureau — an opening evening dinner and drama at Narroway Productions, and a gospel performance followed by dine-around dinner options in Rock Hill’s distinctive Old Town.

“Our community believes in family and faith and we embrace opportunities for fellowship,” said the convention bureau’s interim executive director, Mikki Rentschler. “Rock Hill and York County are progressive and bright destinations, and we enjoyed sharing our authentic features with the delegates of Going On Faith.”

Over two days, more than 3,000 business appointments took place between travel buyers and destination representatives, and delegates heard presentations from three distinguished speakers on faith-based travel topics.

Mike Schields, managing director for groups and emerging markets for Globus family of brands, shared his company’s newest research on the $17 billion faith-based travel industry during the conference’s opening session. Jimmy Wallace, former four-time state champion high school football coach and motivational Christian speaker, offered the keynote address. And to wrap thing up, Brian Jewell, executive editor of Going On Faith magazine, shared his outlook on the future of packaged travel for groups based on six travel personalities that tour planners should account for in their programming.

“The educational content this year was superb,” said conference partner Charlie Presley. “Globus’ research validates the huge potential of this market, while Jimmy Wallace was as inspirational as anyone we’ve ever listened to. And Brian Jewell has created a fascinating overview of personality types that today’s travel planners must account for. We appreciate all of their participation in this year’s conference.”

For more information, visit www.visityorkcounty.com and www.gofconference.com.

Join the "Entrepreneurs in Travel" Facebook Community Page

A new Facebook community has just been launched for young entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs or budding ones in the travel and tourism industry.

To learn more about or to join the community, click here:
http://www.facebook.com/#!/TheTravelingEntrepreneur

Here is the community's official description:
Entrepreneurs in Travel connects young business owners and professionals involved in the tour and travel industry. Share stories, advice, and insight with other upcoming travel professionals to learn and collectively grow our businesses!

Connect with Faith-based Tourism Expert: Cindi Brodhecker

Each growth market in tourism has its experts. So who are the authorities in faith-based?

Today's feature is Cindi Brodhecker. Cindi has eighteen years in the area of group and religious travel. As an expert, she writes and speaks on the subject frequently.

Her bio states "Cindi’s own faith has given her the passion to pursue this travel market, an industry in itself with 18 billion dollars spent annually on religious journeys and mission causes."

If your organization is involved or interested in the faith-based travel and hospitality marketplace, Cindi is an important authority and expert to know.

How can you learn more about Cindi and connect with her? Here's her profile on Linkedin.com:

Cindi Brodhecker
President
Faith Travel Development & Consulting
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/cindi-brodhecker/16/453/a75

Mr. Koolz Opens Wednesday, Others to Follow

The latest Marion eatery, Mr. Koolz' Frozen Yogurt is scheduled to open at 9 a.m. Wednesday for those who need some dessert following breakfast.

The business owned by County Board Chairman Brent Gentry and managed by Babe Ann Hoover is located immediately north of Black Diamond Harley-Davidson in the south end of what's was the Stevens' building and now is named Parkway Plaza.

Three other restaurants are scheduled to open as well over the next two months. Logan's Roadhouse is set for Sept. 16 and a story in Sunday's Southern Illinoisan also noted another steakhouse will open later in the month.

Sammy’s Steakhouse will open in Marion Plaza at 1000 N. Carbon in the space formerly occupied by the short-lived Home Style Buffet and Nong Chen. The site is undergoing extensive renovations. Long-time Marion Chef Sammy Mankin will serve up the specials.

The Southern also reported that Panera Bread should open late in October next to Drury Inn.

Israel Tour Ops Respond to Demand for Custom Experiences

by Stacey Zable

September 10, 2012

Citing robust demand for customized experiences and family travel, tour operators in the Israel market are launching new products at a wide range of price points.

Israel’s escorted and FIT tour products fall into two broad categories – religious and secular. Tour operators emphasize that both deliver profound travel experiences.

“Israel is one of those ‘once-in-a-lifetime” destinations,” said Mike Shields, managing director of groups and emerging markets for the Globus family of brands. “Many travelers return home saying they had a ‘life-changing’ experience.”

To read the rest of Stacey Zable's story, click here:
http://www.travelmarketreport.com/articles/Israel-Tour-Ops-Respond-to-Demand-for-Custom-Experiences

Published Books on Culinary Tourism

The following books as featured on Amazon.com:

Food Tourism Around The World: Development, Management and Markets (New Canadian Library) - 2003

Editors: C. Michael Hall, Liz Sharples, Richard Mitchell, Niki Macionis, Brock Cambourne

View on Amazon.com at:

http://www.amazon.com/Food-Tourism-Around-The-World/dp/0750655038/ref=pd_bxgy_b_img_b/181-1545626-7289364

Food and wine are vital components of the tourism experience, and are increasingly being seen as prime travel motivators in their own right. Food Tourism Around The World: Development, Management and Markets offers a unique insight into this phenomenon, looking at the interrelationship between food, the tourism product and the tourist experience.

Using international case studies and examples from Europe, North America, Australasia and Singapore, Food Tourism Around The World: Development, Management and Markets discusses the development, range and repurcussions of the food tourism phenomenon. The multi-national contributor team analyses such issues as:

* the food tourism product
* food tourism and consumer behaviour
* cookery schools - educational vacations
* food as an attraction in destination marketing

Tourism and Gastronomy (Routledge Advances in Tourism) - 2002

Anne-Mette Hjalager and Greg Richards http://www.amazon.com/Tourism-Gastronomy-Routledge-Advances/dp/0415273811/ref=pd_sim_b_5

In recent years, a growing emphasis has been placed on tourism experiences and attractions related to food. In many cases eating out while on holiday includes the 'consumption' of a local heritage, comparable to what is experienced when visiting historical sites and museums.

Despite this increasing attention, however, systematic research on the subject has been nearly absent. Tourism and Gastronomy addresses this by drawing together a group of international experts in order to develop a better understanding of the role, development and future of gastronomy and culinary heritage in tourism.

Students and researchers in the areas of tourism, heritage, hospitality, hotel management and catering will find this book an extremely valuable source of information.

Culinary Tourism (Material Worlds) - 2003
The following provides a list of several books on Culinary Tourism as featured on Amazon.com:

Culinary Tourism (Material Worlds) - 2010

Lucy M. Long (Editor)

View book on Amazon.com at http://www.amazon.com/Culinary-Tourism-Material-Worlds-Lucy/dp/0813122929

""From Kosher Oreos to the gentrification of Mexican cusine, from the charismatic cook of Basque communities in Spain and the United States to the mainstreaming of southwestern foodways, Culinary Tourism maps a lively cultural and intellectual terrain."" -- from the foreword by Barbara Kirshenblatt-GimblettCulinary Tourism is the first book to consider food as both a destination and a means for tourism. The book's contributors examine the many intersections of food, culture and tourism in public and commercial contexts, in private and domestic settings, and around the world. The contributors argue that the sensory experience of eating provides people with a unique means of communication. Editor Lucy Long contends that although the interest in experiencing ""otherness"" is strong within American society, total immersion into the unfamiliar is not always welcome. Thus spicy flavors of Latin Aermcia and the exotic ingredients of Asia have been mainstreamed for everyday consumption. Culinary Tourism explains how and why interest in foreign food is expanding tastes and leading to commercial profit in America, but the book also show how tourism combines personal experiences with cultural and social attitudes toward food and the circumstances for adventurous eating.

CULINARY TOURISM: THE HIDDEN HARVEST - 2006

WOLF ERIK (Author), INTERNATIONAL CULINARY TOURISM ASSOC (Author)

View on Amazon.com at
http://www.amazon.com/CULINARY-TOURISM-THE-HIDDEN-HARVEST/dp/0757526772/ref=pd_sim_b_6

Food is an attraction - just like a museum. Had it occurred to you, however, that food and drink are the most overlooked components of the visitor experience? Every traveler eats and drinks, and consequently, the ubiquity of that behavior is something that travel industry and food and beverage marketers usually overlook. The reason is because we all take eating for granted - we do it three times per day. Culinary Tourism is an important new industry that weds two related but distant hospitality cousins - foodservice and tourism. Hospitality businesses have an enormous underexplored opportunity to make a significant impression on visitors with unique and memorable eating and drinking experiences. Culinary Tourism: The Hidden Harvest introduces professionals to the concept of Culinary Tourism and presents ideas how to best promote food and drink as a primary visitor lure. Relevant examples from all over the world help illustrate the importance of this new industry.

Christians to converge in Wittenberg, Germany, for Luther 500 Festival

Media Contact: Rowena Drinkhouse, Reformation Tours,

Email: info@reformationtours.com, Phone: 800 303 5534

(Belleville - Illinois)

Christians from all around the world are invited to take part in the Luther 500 Festival in Wittenberg, Germany, where the Reformation officially began in 1517. This seven-day cultural immersion experience (June 17-23, 2013) includes morning and evening prayer in historic locations, music by Lost and Found and other bands, service projects, museums, churches, fellowship, and the quaintness of a German medieval town. Post-festival tours are also available. Reformation Tours is offering packages to the festival starting at $975.00, USD and details can be found on www.ReformationTours.com or at www.Luther500.com.

This pilgrimage to Germany will revitalize participants, who come face to face with the breadth and importance of the Reformation, make new friends, connect with their heritage, and experience firsthand how church history can be a whole lot of fun.

Web: www.ReformationTours.com

Complete Press Details: ww.reformationtours.com/site/490868/page/4568279

Article link: http://travelandleisurenews.com/news/Luther-500-Fest/Luther-500-Festival.htm

Wartburg Castle is Germany's real fairy tale castle and possibly the one most-loved by Germans. This castle is not only beautiful and properly medieval, its walls are rich in German history and legend. It is on the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites.

For Success in Faith Travel, Do Your Homework (by Ruth Hill - Travel Market Report)

Below is another outstanding article by Ruth Hill on faith-based travel. The story is actually Part Two of a Series written by Ruth and published by TravelMarketReport.com. To view the first article in the series (which I previously blogged about as well), click here: Faith Travel Evolves Into Diverse and Profitable Niche,” August 23, 2012.

For Success in Faith Travel, Do Your Homework

by Ruth A. Hill

September 06, 2012

Published by TravelMarketReport.com

Below are the first two opening parargraphs of the article. To continue reading the full story click here: http://www.travelmarketreport.com/articles/For-Success-in-Faith-Travel-Do-Your-Homework

While the business potential is huge in the faith-based travel market, travel sellers need plenty of education – and patience – to succeed in a complex and nuanced niche that encompasses the oldest kind of travel.

Networking with the experts is one way to glean knowledge. Another is to participate in the tours that cater to this market niche.

Read rest of Ruth's article here:
http://www.travelmarketreport.com/articles/For-Success-in-Faith-Travel-Do-Your-Homework

Agritourism News Stories - Week of Sep 6

September is Agritourism Month in Kentucky
Kentucky has nearly 340 farms offering travel and tourism opportunities.
http://surfky.com/index.php/news/kentucky/19369-commissioner-comer-enjoy-agritourism-month-at-a-fun-family-friendly-farm-destination

Agritourism program matures into second year
Residents and visitors in the Shenandoah Valley of Virginia will soon be able to more easily learn about and enjoy the rich farming and farm-related businesses in the area, thanks to a burgeoning agritourism initiative called Fields of Gold.
http://augustafreepress.com/2012/08/27/agritourism-program-matures-into-second-year/

Agritourism growing industry in Manatee County
Agritourism is exactly what it sounds like: a mixture of agriculture and tourism, two of Manatee County’s largest and most profitable industries.
http://www.thebradentontimes.com/news/2012/08/18/business_and_financial/agritourism_growing_industry_in_manatee_county/

Farm Stays Offer a Taste of Country Life
The appeal of agritourism is growing nationwide, as more people want to see and experience where their food comes from and to escape to a simpler life — if only for the weekend.
http://www.dailyastorian.com/news/northwest/farm-stays-offer-a-taste-of-country-life/article_f7e9cac5-9b29-50b6-b26e-63753be219d2.html

This Week's Growth Markets News Stories Featured by NTA

Market Focus: Adventure, Cruise, Family, Faith and Sports Tourism

Focus

Keep current on key industry segments with the articles below, each with a link to an NTA member or event. If you're an NTA member and have a news story or educational article about your organization's involvement in a key industry market, send it for possible republication to NTA's director of growth markets.

Adventure Tourism
Kentucky Towns Looking to Boost Tourism on Nearby Trails and Rivers
NTA member to contact: Kentucky Department of Travel and Tourism

Cruise Travel
Juneau Eyes Biggest Cruise Passenger Day
NTA member to contact: Juneau Convention & Visitors Bureau

Family Travel
Family Affair—Feature Story on Family Travel (Travel Weekly)
NTA Event to Attend: Family Travel & Adventure Tourism Leaders Forum at Travel Exchange

Faith Tourism
Faith Travel Evolves into Diverse and Profitable Niche
NTA member to contact: Paul Larsen, Chair of NTA's Faith Tourism Advisory Council

Sports Tourism
Travelers to be Honored with Induction into Baseball Stadium Hall of Fame
NTA member to contact: Sports Travel and Tours

Travelers to be honored with induction into the Sports Travel and Tours Baseball Stadium Hall of Fame.

Sports Travel and Tours Baseball Stadium Hall of Fame Features Another Breed of ‘Hall of Famer’ in 2013

Sports Travel and Tours Baseball Stadium Hall of Famers

Hatfield, MA (PRWEB) August 28, 2012

This coming July, some very devoted baseball fans will be inducted into the Sports Travel and Tours Stadium Hall of Fame. The ceremony will take place in Cooperstown, NY and coincides with The National Baseball Hall of Fame’s Induction Weekend.

Twelve ago years ago, Sports Travel and Tours (STAT) developed this program for fans that have attended games in all 30 Big League ballparks with Sports Travel and Tours. “We hear from our avid baseball fans all the time, that their dream is to see a game in every stadium,” said Jay Smith, President of Sports Travel and Tours. “So we contacted the Hall of Fame and they allowed us to honor these special fans in Cooperstown,” said Smith.

Travelers receive a custom Passport to Baseball and a stamp for each ballpark visited. Once a fan has visited all 30 ballparks with Sports Travel and Tours, they are inducted into the Stadium Hall of Fame. At the Hall, there is an exhibit devoted to these fans and an official register of STAT Hall of Famers. “This will be our fourth class since we initiated the program,” said Teresa Weybrew, Director of Sales for Sports Travel and Tours. “In 2001, there were 6 inductees, 2005 brought us 17 fans and in 2009 we had 26. At present, we have nearly 30 fans eligible for Induction in 2013,” said Weybrew.

When McGarry was asked “Why do you go on Baseball Road Trips?”, he replied “As the movie says: For The Love Of The Game!”

“Inductees come from all over the country and have diverse backgrounds,” said Christopher J. Switzer, Creative Director for Sports Travel and Tours. “We have inductees from Tennessee and Ohio, Florida and Missouri, even a husband and wife from Minnesota and brothers from Texas. A resident of the UK has traveled the farthest. The common thread throughout these inductees is their love of baseball and the monumental achievement of visiting every Big League ballpark,” said Switzer.

The inductees have shared their excitement about being recognized for completing trips to all 30 Big League ballparks and for connecting with other members of this select group of travelers. “We are delighted to go into the Stadium Hall of Fame, and to be honest, we feel that this journey has been just as fun and exciting as the final destination will be. We enjoyed all the trips and working our way through all the stadiums to this Hall of Fame,” said Angelo Volpe who along with his wife Jennette were inducted in 2009. “We have met and become friends with several of the other inductees during our travels and we plan on continuing our baseball trips with Sports Travel and Tours” added Volpe.

2001 Inductee Red McGarry said, “I’ve enjoyed the Baseball Road Trips with Sports Travel and Tours as I’ve gotten to meet baseball fans from all over the world and being in Sports Travel and Tours’ Baseball Stadium Hall of Fame makes for some great conversation when on tour from ballpark to ballpark. I call it a “Cruise of the Ballparks” because all you need to do is sit back and enjoy each port.” When McGarry was asked “Why do you go on Baseball Road Trips?”, he replied “As the movie says: For The Love Of The Game!”

Culinary Tourism - Current News Headlines

Here are some of the culinary tourism news stories circulating:

1) New Website Links Tourism to Vermont Produced Food
(Bloomberg Businessweek)
http://www.businessweek.com/ap/2012-08-20/new-website-links-tourism-to-vt-dot-produced-food

MONTPELIER, Vt. (AP) — With the growing interest in local food, Vermont has come out with a new interactive website to help link people to nearly 400 food experiences around the state.
DigInVT.com is designed to promote agriculture and tourism. Visitors to the website can learn about locally grown Vermont products and the farmers, producers and chefs who make them.

2) Peak Season for Culinary Fun Hits Tahoe in Early September
http://www.eatdrinkexplore.com/index.php/destinations/932-peak-season-for-culinary-fun-hits-tahoe-in-early-september

(NORTH LAKE TAHOE, California/Nevada) – The 27th Lake Tahoe Autumn Food and Wine Festival, long considered one of the region’s premier gourmet events, has increased the number of its programs – now offering nine days of festivities.

“Travelers have a healthy appetite for culinary tourism,” said Chief Marketing Officer Andy Chapman of the North Lake Tahoe Chamber/CVB/Resort Association. “They are eager to experience the food and wine of a particular region as part of their vacation. With this in mind, we expanded what was already an exceptional event and made it even better, offering nine days instead of three of tastings and classes.”

3) Is Culinary Tourism the Next Big Thing? (BBC News)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/programmes/fast_track/9745987.stm
In the wake of the ongoing economic crisis, the Greek island of Crete witnessed a noticeable decline in visitors earlier this summer. But a number of Greeks are rallying around to try to make tourism the driving force towards recovery. As Rajan Datar reports, with its tradition of local fresh produce - could culinary tourism be the next big thing for the island?

4) In Focus with Martin Sheen to Explore Culinary Trends
In Focus is set to examine how the growing interest in the culinary arts is driving tourism.
http://www.prweb.com/releases/2012/8/prweb9819367.htm
The producers of In Focus with Martin Sheen are pleased to announce an upcoming report on culinary trends that are bringing new tastes to dining enthusiasts.

5) Beers and Bikes: A Match Made in Heaven
http://www.metromodemedia.com/features/beerandbikes0266.aspx

In recent years, cycling culture in metro Detroit has gone from nearly nonexistent to explosively popular, with significant cycling infrastructure being added in major metropolitan centers and small towns alike. At the same time, the same thing has been happening with craft beer culture, evolving from the niche realm of beer geekdom to mass consumption. Coincidence? Never. As bike culture and beer culture have grown exponentially in Michigan, they have also been growing together, in a symbiotic relationship of fun.

Miami Herald: Faith-based Tours are Gaining Popularity

The Miami Herald just published a big story on faith-based travel. Here's info about the article and how to access it:

SPIRITUAL JOURNEYS: FAITH-BASED TOURS ARE GAINING POPULARITY
Published by The Miami Herald

Written by Jay Clarke

http://www.miamiherald.com/2012/08/29/2963385_p2/spiritual-journeys.html

Here's the opening two paragraphs of the article:

In troubled times, many people turn to their faith, which may explain why faith-based travel has been gaining momentum in recent years.

More operators are entering the marketplace, and more participants are taking journeys to sites with religious significance.

Webinar Invitation to Québec’s National Shrines (hosted by Destination Québec)

Are you involved in the travel industry? Are you involved in the product development and/or sales of tours? Or are you involved in developing or expanding your faith-based travel portfolio?

If so, here's a webinar you'll definitely want to sign up for:

The Province of Quebec prides itself on the richness of four great National Shrines: Saint-Anne-de-Beaupré, Our Lady of the Cape Shrine, Saint Joseph's Oratory and The Shrine of Saint-Anthony's Hermitage. Together, they receive a total of 3,000,000 visitors annually, a number that shows the success of their intended purposes. They speak greatly of the faith of the people from Québec and the rich artistic creativity of the craftsmen who have built these great churches surrounded by beautiful gardens. A visit to these national shrines is truly a spiritual and also an historical experience.

Webinar Sign-up Info

Date/Time:

Wednesday, September 12, 2012 at 2:00pm EST (14 h 00)

To register for the webinar visit

http://destinationquebec.adobeconnect.com/quebecshrines/event/registration.html

To know more about Quebec's webinars visit

www.isabelgil.com/dq/webinars

Major Article by Travel Weekly on Family Travel (by Michelle Baran)

A big story was published just this week on Family Travel by Michelle Baran of Travel Weekly. I find it to be one of the most indepth and best stories published this year in the travel trade on the topic. Below you'll find the link to the story. It is a MUST read for anyone involved, interested or affiliated with family travel. Enjoy! - Blogger Kevin

Family affair

By Michelle Baran

Read full story at http://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Tour-Operators/Family-affair/?cid=eltrdb&source=sharethis

U.S. Travel Outlook - Current Industry Trends - Summer 2012

To get an inside look and glimpse at the current status of the travel industry, you can view the July 2012 issue of "U.S. Travel Oulook."

This publication is produced by the U.S. Travel Association with research and trends from Suzanne Cook.

To view the current issue, click here http://www.ustravel.org/sites/default/files/page/2009/09/July2012_public.html

To view other current news, resources and publications of the U.S. Travel Association, click here: http://www.ustravel.org/news

Student Youth Travel Association and Conference (SYTA)

I just returned from attending the Annual Conference of SYTA - Student Youth Travel Association. The event was held in Nashville (TN) from Aug 24-28.

The conference was outstanding and my congratulations go out to the entire SYTA staff and officers.

Who and what is SYTA? SYTA is a non-profit, professional trade association that promotes student & youth travel and seeks to foster integrity and professionalism among student and youth travel service providers.

If you're involved in student travel, be sure to get to know SYTA.

To learn more about SYTA or contact them, here is some helpful information and links:
+ Official website http://www.syta.org/
+ About SYTA http://www.syta.org/default.asp?contentID=654
+ Annual conference http://www.syta.org/default.asp?contentID=842

To contact SYTA directly, click here: http://www.syta.org/default.asp?contentID=679

Faith Travel Evolves Into Diverse and Profitable Niche (by Ruth A. Hill)

Here is an excellent article published this week from Travel Market Report on the faith-based travel market by writer Ruth A. Hill.

Read full article at
http://www.travelmarketreport.com/articles/Faith-Travel-Evolves-into-Diverse-and-Profitable-Niche

Faith Travel Evolves Into Diverse and Profitable Niche

by Ruth A. Hill

August 23, 2012

Some say Moses was the first faith tour leader. He led the Israelites out of Egypt into the Promised Land.

Worldwide religious, faith, or faith-based travel has been around for millennia, yet it’s growing and diversifying as never before. The good news for travel agents is that the niche represents hot business potential for those who take the steps to understand and serve it.

Tourism statistics on faith travel indicate that travel professionals who use creativity and expertise in responding to clients’ interests find unlimited business potential.

The UN World Tourism Organization estimates that 300 million to 330 million people a year participate in faith-based travel. The U.S. Travel Association reports that 25% of all travelers are interested in a spiritual vacation.

Read the rest of Ruth's article at
http://www.travelmarketreport.com/articles/Faith-Travel-Evolves-into-Diverse-and-Profitable-Niche

Irish Inn Owners Set to Retire

Today's Daily Register includes my story on the upcoming closing of the Irish Inn near Ozark in Pope County. Owners Brian and Lynne McCreery say it's time to retire after 12 years in the innkeeping business.

As I note in the story just in the last few years the inn has not only been named the "Small Business of the Year locally by the SIC Small Business Development Center in Harrisburg, but has received national recognition as among the Top 14 'Most Romantic,' the Top 10 'Fido Friendly,' and the 'Most International B&B in North America' to just name a few."

Lynne remains a strong supporter of tourism in the region and had good recommendations for those who want to go into the lodging business.

Check out the story for more.

Market Focus News Stories: Agritourism, Ecotourism, Student/Youth Travel and Market Trends

For more information about the products, services or destinations represented below, click on the NTA member to contact link:

Agritourism
New Website Links Tourism to Vermont Produced Food
NTA member to contact: Vermont Department of Tourism

Oklahoma Tourism Department Brochures Promote State's Agri-Tourism Program
NTA member to contact: Oklahoma Tourism and Recreation Department

Ecotourism
Mexico Offers Everything From Pyramids and Ecotourism to Tequila
NTA member to contact: Mexico Tourism Board

Student/Youth Travel
Junior Tours and Manhattan Tour & Travel Announce Merger
NTA member to contact: Junior Tours

Market Trends
Smaller Group Tours
Consumer Travel Trends 2012: Booking Channels
Smaller Group Tour Trend Satisfying for Tauck and Travelers

Current News Stories with Topic of "Growth Markets" Featured

Here are several travel industry stories circulating in the news with the actual topic of "Growth Markets" featured in the articles.

ASEAN Spells Out Its Tourism Priorities Ahead of 2015
http://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/asean-spells-out-its-tourism-priorities-ahead-of-2015/
The countries of ASEAN are now implementing a clear road map to achieve the tourism objectives of the ASEAN Economic Community, due 2015. There will be a new ‘ASEAN for ASEAN’ campaign and special promotions, along with enhanced strategic cooperation with the growth markets of China, Korea, Japan, India and Australia.

Tourism From Emerging Markets Exceeds Rapidly
http://www.copcap.com/content/us/quick_links/news/latest_news/2012/news_3rd_quarter_2012/tourism_from_emerging_markets_exceeds_rapidly
Tourism from the large growth markets, in particular China, is increasing significantly.

Africa Travel Association and Cameroon Partner to Increase Tourism to West and Central Africa
http://www.eturbonews.com/30425/africa-travel-association-and-cameroon-partner-increase-tourism-
The ATA congress offers a line-up of educational and professional development seminars for travel professionals. Topics include social media, branding and marketing, attracting media coverage, product development, growth markets, cultural tourism, culinary tourism, airline access, and the latest travel trends in Africa.

ASEAN looks at redefining its tourism including with niche markets

The following article is by Luc Citrinot. Click here to see article from Travel Daily News: http://www.traveldailynews.asia/news/article/50194/asean-looks-at-redefining-its

ASEAN (Association of South East Asian nations) is launching a new campaign to build up world awareness about the economic grouping.

BANGKOK– ASEAN countries are now implementing a clear road map to achieve tourism objectives of the ASEAN Economic Community, due by 2015. There will be a new 'ASEAN for ASEAN' campaign and special promotions, along with enhanced strategic cooperation with the growth markets of China, Korea, Japan, India and Australia.

ASEAN Secretary-General Dr Surin Pitsuwan and ASEAN Tourism Ministers have endorsed the plan, which includes a swathe of initiatives such as the creation of a new website and digital promotional campaigns targeting the mass markets of China and India. ASEAN will also go for niche markets such as experiential, creative, adventure, business, senior, and long stay visitors. Further, there will be special promotions for the cruise market.

"Our strategy is designed to help build global recognition of Southeast Asia as a competitive, world-class tourism destination," said Dr Surin. "Our focus is on drawing visitors to the region and encouraging them to visit more than one country. As each has its own unique attractions, we will capitalize on the sophisticated marketing capacity and resources of our individual national tourism organizations to spread the word."

The ASEAN Tourism Strategic Plan2011-2015 is the foundation of the ASEAN Tourism Marketing Strategy (ATMS)2012-2015, adopted by ASEAN Tourism Ministers in January 2012. It is the plan with which ASEAN national tourism organisations (NTOs) seek to achieve the objectives of 2015 and maintain double digit tourism growth, an ASEAN hallmark for much of the last 14 years.

ASEAN destinations attracted 81.2 million visitors in 2011, an average increase of a million visitors each year for the last two decades. Three out of four visitors to ASEAN come from Asia;46.5% from within ASEAN and 27.6% from other Asian markets. According to ASEAN NTOs, Europe is the next largest group of visitors to ASEAN at12.2%, followed by Oceania (including Australia and New Zealand) at 5.3%,and the Americas at 4.4%.

Niche and mass market promotions will go hand in hand. ASEAN Tourism Marketing Working Group Chairperson, Mr Sansern Ngaorungsi, who is also Deputy Governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand said: "While ASEAN's niche, tactical campaigns will target sectors such as adventure, experiential, business and long stay, and show the diversity of ASEAN, mass tourism demand for mainstream attractions is expected to keep growing and bring important economic benefits to ASEAN destinations."

One niche sector, cruise is being favoured by ASEAN because river and sea cruise ships usually visit more, than one destination. To promote cruise ship activity in ASEAN, Singapore is organizing the "Cruise Shipping Asia Pacific 2012" forum on 17 September in Singapore.

Southeast Asia NTOs will also be emphasizing the grouping's marketing plan at the ASEAN Tourism Forum which will take place in Vientiane, Laos 17-24 January 2013. Over 1,600 delegates will include some 150 ASEAN tourism ministers and officials, 800 ASEAN exhibitors, 400 international buyers, 150 international and local media and 100 tourism trade visitors.

(News) Pioneers in Student Travel Industry Join Forces to Enhance Educational Programs

Read full story at http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/junior-tours-and-manhattan-tour--travel-announce-merger-165956796.html

Junior Tours And Manhattan Tour & Travel Announce Merger

Pioneers in the Student Travel Industry Join Forces to Enhance Educational Programs

NEW YORK, Aug. 13, 2012 /PRNewswire-iReach/ -- Manhattan Tour & Travel, a tour company with strong connections to the New York City theatre community since 1990, announced that it has merged with Junior Tours, a tour company specializing in overnight educational tours since 1967. This union will create exciting new opportunities for group travelers.

"This merger will have an extraordinary impact on our current and future customers. They will benefit from better pricing and from greater organizational resources. Perhaps most importantly, the combined expertise of the two companies will enhance the options available to group leaders as we expand our tour programs," said Rich Abrams, President of Junior Tours.

Founded by Martin Abrams, a former social studies teacher in Brooklyn, NY, Junior Tours has remained true to its roots and still operates as a family business today. Meticulous planning and personalized service have always been the hallmarks of the company. In all, Junior Tours has worked with group leaders in all 50 states plus Canada and has hosted more than 500,000 students. Junior Tours is an active member of the Student Youth Travel Association, National Tour Association, American Bus Association as well sponsors of the Future Business Leaders of America, Texas Educational Theatre Association and DECA.

Founded by Sanford Levitt, an accomplished actor and member of the Educational Theatre Association's Hall of Fame, Manhattan Tour & Travel specializes in theatre tours to New York City. Manhattan Tour & Travel plans tour packages featuring advanced theatre workshops, private seminars with Broadway actors and backstage theater tours. Manhattan Tour & Travel is an active member and supporter of the American Association of Community Theatre.

Beginning with the 2012-2013 school year, groups will have the opportunity to participate in exciting new workshops including "Showstopper!- A Working Musical Theater Party", "Winning Auditions – Get That Role", "Broadway Musicals and the Joy Of Singing In Them" and "Okay, I'm Singing But What Do I Do With My Hands?"

The executives and management of each Company will stay onboard.

For more information about Junior Tours, go to www.juniortours.com.

For more information about Manhattan Tour & Travel, go to www.manhattantourandtravel.com.

Media Contact:

Richard Abrams Junior Tours, 800-631-2241

Email rabrams@juniortours.com

News distributed by PR Newswire iReach: https://ireach.prnewswire.com

Quebec Shrines FAM Tour for Travel Agents/Tour Operators

If you are a veteran travel agent or a tour operator - and are looking to expand your faith based portfolio of tours in North America, you may want to apply for the upcoming FAM Tour for the faith-based destination in the province of Québec (CANADA).

For more information, contact Genoveffa Fiorin of Quebec's National Shrines.

Here's helpful info:

1) To connect with Genoveffa Fiorin on Linkedin.com, here is her profile:
http://ca.linkedin.com/pub/genoveffa-fiorin/40/3a0/579

2) Here is the official website for the Quebec Shrines:
http://www.quebecshrines.com

2nd Annual Faith-based Tourism Leaders Forum (Jan 2013)

One of the Growth Markets we often cite in this blog is the faith-based travel and hospitality marketplace.

This January NTA will be hosting the 2nd Annual Faith-based Tourism Leaders Forum at Travel Exchange. Currently more than 120 companies have RSVP'd for the event. To learn more about the Forum and how to register, see below.

SUMMARY DESCRIPTION

2nd Annual Faith-based Tourism Leaders Forum
Sunday, Jan. 20 (2013), 4:15–5:45 p.m.

The Faith-based Tourism Leaders Forum is an R.S.V.P. gathering of professionals, executives, organizations and thought-leaders involved in faith-based travel and hospitality. Serving as the only industry event of its kind, the inaugural forum (Dec. 2011) garnered the participation of 60-plus companies and tourism leaders. The event also gained extensive trade media coverage. Any NTA member and Convention delegate is invited to attend – however, R.S.V.P’s must be requested and granted in advance. Conducted in a dynamic, interactive and networking atmosphere, the forum provides a firsthand opportunity to:

· Connect industry colleagues involved in faith-based tourism.

· Create new business relationships and partnerships.

· Discuss entrepreneurial ideas and innovative approaches to the marketplace.

· Exchange market-specific strategies, insights, trends and opportunities.

· Enrich NTA’s coalition and collaboration of faith tourism leaders, members and delegates.

· Shape and advance an industry vision of the marketplace.

HOW TO REGISTER

To attend and RSVP for the above Forum, you must first register for Travel Exchange. Here is information on registering for Travel Exchange:

http://businessbuilder.ntaonline.com/convention/RegistrationHousing.aspx

For more info about Travel Exchange itself, click here:

http://businessbuilder.ntaonline.com/convention/Home.aspx

To view schedule featuring the Faith-based Tourism Leaders Forum on Jan. 20:

http://businessbuilder.ntaonline.com/convention/Education/SeminarDescriptions.aspx#sunday5

Great Tourism Movie to Watch this Weekend: My Life in Ruins

Looking for a good tourism movie to watch this upcoming weekend?

Check out the movie "My Life in Ruins" - it's a wonderful comedy about a tour director and her tour group traveling in Greece.

Here's the official movie website http://www.foxsearchlight.com/mylifeinruins/

You can also view the movie trailer at above website or click here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AkRMBRxC_Gk

List of Growth Markets in Tourism

As this blog is dedicated to the topic of "Growth Markets in Tourism" - let's take a minute to identify some of them.

But first, what do we mean by "Growth Markets"? The term is pretty versatile, as it can refer to any or all of the following:
* Market growing in number of travelers.
* Market growing in revenues generated.
* Market growing in number of tour operators, travel agents, tourist offices and suppliers entering or expanding their presence within it.

The following are just some of the growth markets in today's world of tourism - all of which we cover in this blog plus many more:

+ Adventure travel
+ Agritourism
+ Culinary travel
+ Cultural travel
+ Ecotourism
+ Faith-based travel
+ Family travel
+ River cruising
+ Sports tourism
+ Voluntourism

This Week's Tourism Stories: Culinary, Family, Faith-based, Sports and Ecotourism

Market Focus: Ecotourism, Culinary, Family, Faith-based and Sports Tourism

Market Focus connects you to articles about NTA members in specific industry segments, and with each article is a link to the member to contact for more information.

Ecotourism
Florida's Emerald Coast Ripe for Ecotourism
NTA member to contact: Emerald Coast CVB

Culinary Tourism
Vermont Tourism Showcases Food and Farm Experiences
NTA member to contact: Vermont Tourism Network

Family Travel
Tweens Define Another Segment of Family Travel
NTA tour operators RSVP for Family Travel & Adventure Tourism Leaders Forum at Travel Exchange

Faith-based Travel
A Century of Strength: Branson Still Rooted in Faith
NTA member to contact: Branson Tourism Center, Branson/Lakes Area Convention & Visitors Bureau

Sports Tourism
Wilmington (N.C.) Officials Attempt to Beef Up Sports Tourism
NTA member to contact: Wilmington and Beaches CVB

(Euromonitor) Travel and Tourism Market Research Reports

A resource to consider purchasing/acquiring for discovering what the growth markets are in various countries around the world are the Euromonitor market research reports.

Here is additional information about these reports:

Website: http://www.euromonitor.com/travel-and-tourism

Summary description:
Market research for the travel and tourism industry
Euromonitor has the world’s most comprehensive research on the travel and tourism industry. We monitor and analyse industry trends in travel and tourism globally, including in-depth data on market share and market size – from the “big picture” down to specific category levels.

Sign up for Switzerland Faith-based Tourism Webinar

Join the online information session on Switzerland's Faith Travel sites, taking place at noon (ET) on Aug 23. Learn about Lucerne or St.Gallen's heritage, where you can sleep in a monastery or about the reformers in Zurich and Geneva.

Send an email with your contacts to nyc.trade@switzerland.com and they will sign you up.

Website: http://www.myswitzerland.com/en/religious-sites.html