All inclusive spring break packages are the most popular vacations for college students. Most will argue that they are also the most expensive, however, this is not always the case.

Spring break 2010 is approaching. Early preparation and planning is the key to getting into the popular hotels at the best spring break destinations. As a travel agent you know that the all inclusive spring break trips sell out first. They typically include transportation (cruise or flight), hotel accommodations, food and drinks at the hotel (including alcoholic drinks), etc... The problem is most college spring break students think they can t afford this type of package and would prefer to pay for everything separate.

Bahamas cruises offer a way to experience an all inclusive spring break vacation at a significantly lower price. Many cruise packages include transportation and hotel accommodations on the island all in one price. One or two of those hotels will often be all inclusive. If you can eliminate airfare, you’ll reduce your clients’ total package price by as much as 25 percent. The international taxes imposed on airfare are often half the total cost of each ticket. International taxes imposed on cruise lines are significantly lower. Most cruise lines will add no more than ten to fifteen percent to each ticket for international taxes.

Many people don’t realize that cruises depart daily from Florida during the month of March. It typically takes about seven hours to reach the Bahamas from Ft. Lauderdale. The ships are huge. Many of the ships have casinos, several pools, shops, live bands, clubs, bars, and much more. Compare this to sitting on a plane in a small seat for three hours and the choice is clear.

Also, when flying the party starts when you reach the hotel at your spring break destination. When you take a spring break cruise the party starts when you board the ship. Getting there doesn’t always need to be the part your travelers dread. Sometimes getting there can be as much fun as the time spent on the island.

Early preparation is key. Please remember that the most popular spring break vacations often sell out six months in advance. Tell your clients to talk to their friends, pick a destination, and decide on a max. price everyone is willing to pay per person. This will make your job much easier. The internet is often the best place to start. Having a max. per person price will allow you to narrow down the playing field very quickly. Only focusing on all inclusive packages will narrow it down even further.

It’s usually a good idea to put one or two people in charge of organizing, planning, researching, and booking the trip. This makes things much easier for all those involved, including, you the travel agent. Maybe you want to suggest only one person in the group works with you. You don t want to book a hotel with “Joe”, only to have “Sam” call you and change things around without the group’s knowledge.

Simple tips and strategies are the key to making many things run smoothly in this life. Why should spring break be any different?

Source: http://articlescan.com/rss.php?rss=264 Written By : Bob Millingstein

Tourism Cares is pleased to announce the opening of its 2010 Academic Scholarship offerings for travel, tourism, and hospitality students. The current endowment that Tourism Cares administers, which includes both the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) and the National Tour Association (NTA) Scholarship Funds, totals more than $1.7 million. There are 56 scholarships awards this year, totaling more than $81,000, representing a range from $1,000 to $5,000.

Undergraduate and graduate students may now apply for up to two scholarships through the Tourism Cares website, www.tourismcares.org/scholarships , which links to the Tourism Cares STARS online scholarship application platform. Both the website and STARS provide scholarship descriptions, eligibility criteria, and requested documents. The application deadline for the Tourism Cares Academic Scholarships is Monday, March 22, 2010 at 5pm EDT. Scholarship recipients will be announced in May. 

The Tourism Cares scholarship awards help support the advanced education of the future workforce of the travel, tourism, and hospitality industry, which is vitally important to maintaining a high level of professionalism in the industry. All academic scholarship recipients are invited to participate in the Tourism Cares Experience the Industry Student Program at the National Tour Association’s Convention held during the week of November 13th, 2010 in Montréal, Québec, Canada. At the event, students shadow mentors, who are travel industry veterans, during business appointments; participate in discussions about career paths; and take advantage of networking and learning opportunities.

Pamela Johnson of Purdue University, winner of the Princess Cruises Scholarship, was among one of the students who participated in the Experience the Industry Student Program last fall. “I was given the amazing opportunity to travel to Reno for the NTA Convention.  While I was there, I participated in every activity and opportunity that I possibly could,” said Pamela. “My favorite part was meeting so many people with such a strong passion for the hospitality and tourism industry. The experience has definitely changed me because I learned so much about this segment of the industry and possible career paths that I never knew before.”

In March, Tourism Cares will be opening its 2010 Professional Development Scholarship opportunities.

About Tourism Cares
Tourism Cares is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit public charity mission is to preserve the travel experience for future generations by awarding grants to natural, cultural and historic sites worldwide; by presenting academic and professional development scholarships to students of hospitality and tourism; and by organizing volunteer efforts to restore tourism-related sites in need of care and rejuvenation. For additional information about Tourism Cares, please visit www.tourismcares.org.

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Travel agents from around the country are invited to sample a little taste of Paradise for just $59 a night.

To celebrate the recent completion of an ambitious $20 million renovation, Paradise Point Resort & Spa – a longtime island retreat in the heart of San Diego – is offering travel agents a special rate of $59 per night from now until May 28, 2010 (offer is good for standard rooms only). To sweeten the offer, any agents who book clients at the popular destination will receive a 15% commission from the resort.

Along with some significant savings, agents at Paradise Point will enjoy spectacular new accommodations – the resort just completed extensive refurbishments of its 462 bungalow-style guestrooms and bay front meeting facilities.

A 44-acre island “Shangri-La” famed for its intimate residential-style bungalows and tropical touches such as flaming tiki torches, the property now sports an exotic South Pacific-style motif, inspired by lush tropical gardens of hibiscus, palms and bougainvillea – all set against a breathtaking bay-front backdrop.

The upgraded and redesigned guest rooms exude a sense of calm, with an airy yet sophisticated color scheme of coral, turquoise, celery and gold; and edgy fine touches such as leopard-patterned rugs; modern South Pacific-style furnishings made from sleek hardwoods such as teak, mahogany and kapur; and compelling contemporary artworks. Furthering the Asian motif: handcrafted Batik-style bed throws custom-made for the resort in Java and black bamboo porcelain tile floors. Expansive windows bring the outdoors in – flooding each room with natural light and capturing garden, lagoon or bayside views.

The resort’s spacious accommodations range from the 5,000-square-foot presidential suite to the 450-square-foot standard guest rooms. Each room is outfitted with chic marble or granite bathrooms; flat-screen plasma TVs and wireless Internet access, as well as private patios, many suites also offer wet bars with microwave ovens, refrigerators, and separate dining areas.

In addition to posh accommodations, Paradise Point is bustling with activities and amenities, among them: indoor and outdoor dining options, including fine dining at BALEEN; SpaTerre, a serene and luxurious Asian-inspired spa; and five swimming pools, among them a beautiful lagoon pool with a sandy beach area. This unique 44-acre island getaway – situated on Mission Bay – a 4,600-acre aquatic playground – features more than one mile of sandy beach, a private marina, a freshwater lake and an 18-hole putting golf course.

A popular destination since 1962, the property was originally known as Vacation Village and built by successful Hollywood producer and real estate developer Jack Skirball. It became Paradise Point Resort & Spa in 1999, and since then has undergone more than $35 million in upgrades, earning acclaim such as one of “Top Ten Family Resorts in the World” by Forbes.com in the process. Secluded yet centrally located, the resort is just minutes from the area’s top attractions, including Sea World, the San Diego Zoo, Balboa Park, downtown San Diego, the Embarcadero and much more.

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The Westin Riverfront is pleased to offer 15% off for CCRA Travel Professionals and their clients.
Book via the GDS or when calling, reference booking code: #19811.

Delight in breathtaking views of Beaver Creek Mountain and unparalleled access to amazing terrain at Vail Valley’s new Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa.

Nestled on the banks of the Eagle River, The Westin Riverfront was named to Condé Nast Traveler’s “Hot List 2009” as one of the 140 hottest new resorts worldwide, as well as ranked 2nd in the “10 Best Snow Resorts for Families” by Parents magazine.

The Westin Riverfront features 210 spacious guest residences, which range in size from studio suites to three bedroom condominiums, all featuring contemporary “mountain modern” décor, expansive windows, custom kitchens, five-piece bathrooms and gas fireplaces. The resort, which opened September 2008, is the only Silver LEED certified hotel in Colorado.

During the winter, The Westin Riverfront offers skiers and snowboarders direct access to Beaver Creek Mountain via the Riverfront Express Gondola. Vail Mountain is just a short drive away. Unwind after a powder day with an après ski cocktail next to an outdoor fire pit or in the inviting Lobby Bar, then a long soak in one of The Westin Riverfront’s three oversized riverside hot tubs.

In the spring, summer and fall, guests can venture outside to enjoy Vail Valley’s outstanding hiking, mountain biking, fly fishing, kayaking and whitewater rafting.

For the ultimate in relaxation, a visit to Spa Anjali is in order. With a focus on the healing traditions of the mountains, Spa Anjali features 14 treatment rooms and a full-service salon. Signature treatments include the Red Clover & Mountain Honey Body Mask, the Riverstone Massage and the Ayurvedic Neem Healing Facial.

Restaurant Avondale by acclaimed Vail Chef Thomas Salamunovich features a West Coast inspired, seasonal menu and utilizes time honored cooking methods, such as slow roasting and braising, to create simple dishes that are rich in flavor.

Other amenities at the family-friendly Westin Riverfront include the state-of-the-art Riverfront Club Fitness Center, which offers a full schedule of group yoga, spin and Pilates classes daily, a ski valet, an on-site ski rental and fly fishing shop, a Westin Kids Club and a saline-based heated outdoor lap pool.

The Westin Riverfront features 4,200 square feet of flexible indoor meeting space with floor-to-ceiling windows and stunning mountain vistas, as well as 4,000 square feet of outdoor event space overlooking the Eagle River.

This is a place to unwind, recharge and find inspiration in the majestic beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

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Rates starting from 20% off our Best Available Rates!

Quite simply, there's no destination quite like it. The Roger offers astute travelers something special, something rarely encountered at traditional Midtown NYC hotels - a warm sense of place. Upon arrival, the design amazes as our staff's friendly welcome soothes. Atrium ceilings and soft candlelight set a dramatic complement to bold architectural strokes and rich, jewel-toned-colors.  Cosmopolitan and exclusive but never flashy, the Roger is an oasis of warm hospitality and sophistication, nestled in the heart of midtown Manhattan.  A granite-floating staircase leads you to the Mezzanine Lounge, the chic yet playful mood is an escape from the midtown bustle.

Our Superior King rooms offer bold infusion of color and design; a space that is both stimulating and relaxing. Enjoy either a king or queen bed complete with down bedding, plasma TVs, gourmet mini bar selections, and Aveda spa products.  Roger’s new Penthouse Experience offers garden terraces in every room, featuring sweeping views of Manhattan, Roger’s Penthouse is a magnificent way to experience New York. Let Roger’s butler take care of your every need 24 hours a day: nightly turndown amenities, drinks in the lounge, and breakfast each morning. He’s even upgrading his amenities, and you get to choose! L’occitane, Face, or Bulgari –with Roger’s Penthouse, it’s all about you!

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Why not treat yourself with a stay at London’s most stylish hotels: The Halkin and Metropolitan London.

Both hotels currently are offering a special promotion of:
Book three nights and save a minimum of 20% on your stay.

This offer is based on a three-night stay and valid until the end of the year, subject to availability.
All terms and conditions available on GDS.

The Halkin is a haven in the heart of London’s exclusive Belgravia.

The Halkin GDS Code: YX

The Metropolitan London is a cool, contemporary hotel located on Old Park Lane.

The Metropolitan London GDS Code: DS

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La Torretta Lake Resort & Spa -- A New $130-million Waterfront Texas Destination Property, Brings New Meaning to Added Value This March with Endless Amenities and a $129 Spring Break Rate.

Looking for something new and out of the ordinary to recommend to your clients for their spring break excursion – an opportunity for a quick escape that is both easy to reach and accommodating to a variety of tastes and budgets?  Just an hour from downtown Houston and 30 minutes from IAH airport, water, warm weather and endless opportunities at the recently debuted, AAA Four Diamond La Torretta Lake Resort & Spa. 

Designed in an international modern style, a total of 445 all suite accommodations allow plenty of room for family and private time with separate living areas featuring 42” flat screen TVs, terraces and the option of pull out sofas for the kids or grandchildren.  Deluxe bedrooms with oversized baths – most featuring dual sinks – offer lake views and sinfully comfortable bedding.

Ready to bask in the sun and the fun?  Venture outside to the 3.5-acre, lakefront Aqua Park, created for the kid and the kid at heart.  A raised adult pool with infinity edge and separate jacuzzi cascades down to the 6,400-square-foot Mediterranean pool lined with in-water chaises.  A separate family section incorporates the BreezeBuster pool with dual water slides, the Splash Scape kids' pool with integrated playground and 300-gallon bucket dump, Pollywogs pool for the youngest of water lovers, figure eight Lay-Z River™ Rapids and additional jacuzzi.  A sandy beach is located on a quiet lake inlet and is ideal for sunning or splashing.

Feeling water logged?  Head out of the sun and into a state-of-the-art, 10,000-square-foot fitness facility complete with racquetball courts plus comprehensive weight and circuit rooms.  Across the green, indulge in complimentary access to the world class, 17,000-square-foot Spa Terre, where you’ll be able to take full advantage of separate men’s and women’s relaxation lounges incorporating atriums, hamams (Turkish-inspired steam rooms), experience showers and shiatsu chair decks overlooking tranquil patios.

What’s next?  Challenge the family to a game of golf on one of the coolest miniature courses you’ve ever seen.  The kids will also enjoy a full calendar of complimentary daily activities and prize opportunities, ranging from tennis camps and float and relay races to arts & crafts and coin dives.

Ready to splurge?  Book lunch at Yoi for the freshest sushi around or a sunset dinner for two at Chez Roux, chosen the best new restaurant in Houston by the Houston Chronicle and helmed by Michelin rated chef Matthew Gray, formerly of Scotland’s famed Inverlochy Castle.  Upgrade to more private accommodations in the tower’s restricted access penthouse level or one of the Golf and Lake Front Villas.  Take advantage of a dizzying array of water crafts, including kayaks, pontoons, jet skis and ski boats.  Go for a hole in one on the resort’s 18-hole golf course, completely redesigned by Robert von Hagge protégé, Jeffrey Blume, and lined by mature stands of majestic pines.

Special rates start at just $129 per night, and at this spectacular new $130-million destination resort, ideally located on the shores of idyllic, 22,000-acre Lake Conroe, you’ll be surprised how far that rate will go.

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Shangri-La's legendary hospitality has arrived in North America with the opening of Shangri-La Hotel, Vancouver.  This 119-room luxury hotel, located in vibrant downtown Vancouver, occupies the first 15 floors of a 61-storey landmark building, the tallest in the city.

Guests at Shangri-La Hotel, Vancouver will find luxurious guestrooms and suites decorated in a contemporary Asian style, with many rooms featuring private balconies and stunning views of the city. Visitors can enjoy personalized spa treatments at CHI, The Spa at Shangri-La, or experience Vancouver fine dining with regionally inspired dishes at MARKET by Jean-Georges.

For guests with business in mind, Shangri-La Hotel, Vancouver offers flexible meeting rooms and professional planning services. These distinctive spaces can also serve as unique venues for weddings and special events in downtown Vancouver.

Whether in the city for business or for pleasure, this luxury hotel offers amenities and accommodations that bring to life the unique Asian hospitality, serenity, and caring service that Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts represents.

Try our Spring in the City with great rates starting from CAD 225 per night.

In the midst of Spring, when you need a reason to 'escape' Shangri-La Hotel, Vancouver offers the destination at a great rate.  Set in the heart of this vibrant city, you will discover a team focused on you.  Enjoy all that this new hotel - the first in North America for Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts - has to offer, including:

This offer is available now through 31 May 2010.