MTS Traveler
Menno Traveler April 2013
45 days
Menno Traveler – April 2013
~ a newsletter for our business travelers ~
Our office will celebrate Easter by closing at Noon on Good Friday, March 29.
For your convience, our After Hours Emergency Service will be available.
Call 800-367-1633 and use the VIT Code P3ND. Fees Aply.
Have a wonderful Easter celebration!
Saving You More On Car Rentals
At Menno Travel we help you save money whenever possible. With car rentals, for example, we discovered that some rates on cars that were already reserved actually went down a couple of days prior to the rental date! This allowed us to pass the savings along to our client. This is another quality control check that we use to help you save money. Contact Geof or Holly if you would like to learn more about our managed corporate travel.
Do You Understand Your Company’s Travel Policy?
As businesses continue to clamp down on policy and compliance, research firm Amadeus surveyed 400 travellers and found only 53% fully understand their corporate travel policy and 34% had gone “off plan” last year. Managed travel takes the guesswork out of controlling costs and staying within budget. Contact Holly to learn more.
TSA Allowable Carry-On List Expands
The TSA ruled that airline passengers will be allowed to carry pen knives, corkscrews with small blades and other knives onto planes. Passengers also will be allowed to bring onboard, as part of their carry-on luggage, novelty-sized baseball bats less than 24 inches long, toy plastic bats, billiard cues, ski poles, hockey sticks, lacrosse sticks and two golf clubs. The policy goes into effect on April 25. Click here for the TSA Prohibited Items list.
Get More With Delta and Starwood
By booking Delta flights and Starwood hotels together, you can earn reciprocal benefits with SkyMiles and Starpoints programs. Called the Crossover Rewards program, enrolled SkyMiles Medallion members will have access to benefits including priority check-in, 4 p.m. late checkout and free in-room internet access when staying at Starwood Hotels and Resorts. Starwood elite members can receive one free checked bag, priority check-in and priority boarding when flying Delta.
In addition, Medallion members will earn one mile per dollar spent on eligible room rates when staying with Starwood and Starpoint members will earn points per dollar spent on eligible flights in addition to the miles usually earned for their flight. Starwood includes Sheraton, Westin, Four Points by Sheraton, W Hotels, St. Regis, The Luxury Collection, Le Méridien, element and Aloft. More information is available at delta.com/crossoverrewards or spg.com/crossoverrewards.
Ask for reservations at one of these Starwood hotels the next time you travel on Delta. Menno Travel has preferred rates and availability with several American Express hotel programs. Don’t miss out!
Delta SkyMiles Medallion Changes for 2014
Effective January 1, 2014, a minimum spend level based on the price of tickets purchased will be required to qualify for status in the 2015 Medallion program. This is in addition to the Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) or Medallion Qualification Segments (MQSs) already used to determine the various status levels of the SkyMiles Medallion program. This will not affect customers in 2013. For more information, click here to visit the Delta Skymiles website.
Hertz Carfirmation Technology
Hertz’s Carfirmation™ is a mobile alert service that sends a notice to your phone to let you know which car you will be driving and where it is parked the minute it is ready. It also shows other available cars and upgrades and lets you select the one you want – all on your mobile. Simple, fast and easy.
Go to the Personal and Contact details section of your profile on Hertz.com and opt-in to receive Mobile Gold Alerts by email or SMS, or both. This service is available at Hertz’s top 50 airports.
Southwest Now Flying from Grand Rapids and Flint
Flights on Southwest Airlines from Grand Rapids to Baltimore/Washington, Denver, Orlando and St. Louis will begin August 11. Southwest will offer nonstop flights, add new cities, larger airplanes and more flights. They will offer nonstop service between Flint, Mich., and Las Vegas starting August 11. Service from Flint will also include nonstop service to Baltimore/Washington, Orlando, and Tampa Bay.
New Boarding Option for Southwest
Southwest is offering customers the opportunity to purchase one of the earliest boarding positions for $40 per flight, when available. This new boarding option will only be offered at the gate on the day of travel, beginning 45 minutes before the flight departs. Customers will hear an announcement in the gate area and will be able to purchase an available boarding position via credit card from a Customer Service Agent.
Southwest Airlines A Mixed Bag
Based on an audit it completed in November 2012 looking at 100 major domestic city pairs, Topaz found that competing airlines were lower than Southwest Airlines over 60 percent of the time. Topaz studied only comparable flights between Southwest and its competitors and whether the itinerary was nonstop or had connections.
Of course, if travelers check one bag, Southwest is a lower price 60 percent of the time, Topaz determined. When checking two bags, Southwest Airlines is almost always a lower price in the 100 markets analyzed, beating competitors on pricing in such instances 88 percent of the time.
Recent advertising from Southwest indicates an apparent shift in their image, as they add new fees and complete their merger with Air Tran. We anticipate more changes this year. While Menno Travel actively sells Southwest when it benefits customers, Southwest chooses not to offer travel agent support, so our ability to advocate for you is limited.
AA-US Airways Integration to Take 12 to 18 Months
It will be at least a year or a year-and-a-half before American Airlines and US Airways start merging their operations. The two airlines have to work together to align their policies in the cockpit, in the cabin and on the ground, according to marketing and sales executives from the two airlines. That means it’ll be awhile before the two carriers operate with a single res system.
~ INCENTIVE TRAVEL ~
Putting the “WOW Factor” Into Incentive Trips
A well-planned event, a site that is known around the world, and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity are all the trademarks of an incentive travel experience with a “WOW Factor”.
How do you make YOUR incentive pop? The “WOW Factor” is a way to set your program apart from others. Most “WOW Factors” are right under your nose, so to speak. Arrange for a private dinner at Fenway Park or Soldier Field. Local aquariums offer space for dinner under the sea and a museum can offer a setting or a cocktail party surrounded by original art.
Further away from home, the Mayan Ruins in Mexico or Blenheim Palace near London can provide an unforgettable gala experience with local flavor. These are things that your participants would not normally experience on their own vacation and what a dramatic way to present awards at the end of the trip!
Event budgets are tight and the “extras” are a natural place to cut costs. Be careful your incentive program doesn’t go from inspiring to merely rewarding, and your annual meeting doesn’t feel like a training seminar.
While it’s difficult to top your travel incentive programs year after year, it’s important to keep up with the latest trends, newest experiences and current hot spots. Contact Maureen or Ronda and let the experienced staff at Menno Travel help put the “WOW Factor” into your next incentive trip.
~ VACATION VALUE ~
Private Villa Rentals Offer Luxurious Value
Consider a luxurious vacation that will make you feel like the “Rich and Famous” by renting a villa or luxury condo in the Caribbean, Mexico, Hawaii, France or Italy! A dream can become an elegant and memorable reality thanks to The Villa Experience through our preferred supplier, American Express Vacations.
A private villa or condo featuring all the trappings associated with the most luxurious vacation can actually be more economical than a luxury resort. People often envision the concept of a villa vacation as something just wealthy can afford, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. A villa vacation is all about a luxurious travel experience where relaxation and privacy are paramount goals.
Villas are perfect for special needs like Honeymoons, Destination Weddings, Family Reunions, Golf Vacations, or Corporate Meetings. Contact dorothy@mennotrav.com to start planning your luxury getaway!
Menno Traveler December 2012
45 days
MENNO TRAVELER December 2012
the newsletter for our business travelers
Our office will celebrate the Christmas and New Year’s holidays by closing for the following days:
December 24 and 25
January 1
For your convenience, our After Hours Emergency Service will be available.
Call 800-367-1633 and use the VIT Code P3ND. Fees Apply.
We wish you all Happy Holidays!
Deb Mangas On the Move!
As Business Development Manager for Menno Travel for the past nine years, Deb Mangas worked closely with many of our corporate accounts. We’re happy to announce that Deb re-joined our Vacation Travel Department and is now available to handle your vacation travel. Deb kept her hand in the vacation travel business over the years and worked full time in that department prior to becoming Business Development Manager.
We appreciate the work Deb has done in bringing in business and servicing our corporate accounts. Deb will continue to represent Menno Travel in the local community and the broader travel community. Contact Deb to plan your next getaway.
New Business Development Manager Hired
Most recently the Associate Executive Director of the Nappanee Division of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Goshen, Holly Yoder joins Menno Travel as Business Development Manager. Holly is responsible for growing our individual and group corporate business. She brings enthusiasm and energy to this job and looks forward to learning to know our current and future clients. Please join us in welcoming Holly to our Menno family. You may contact her by calling our office or email holly@mennotrav.com.
Southwest To Fly To Wichita
Beginning June 2, 2013, Southwest Airlines will offer new nonstop service from Chicago Midway to Wichita, KS and Tulsa, OK. The Wichita service on Southwest begins the day after it ends with AirTran, which is now owned by Southwest.
Delta’s New Website Adds Enhancements
Delta has a new look to their website. Here are a few key updates:
- SkyMiles members will need to create a password to replace the PIN.
- You will be able to access and print your ticket and baggage receipts past and present for up to two years with the new feature called My Receipts.
- My Delta is a feature that provides you with a summarized view of your upcoming trips, SkyMiles, promotion information, and much more.
Hurry and Buy Medallion Status Before the End of the Year!
Delta SkyMiles members have until December 31 to purchase Medallion Qualification Miles (MQMs) to be applied toward your 2013 Medallion status. If you are close to achieving 2013 status but are unable to acquire the remaining MQM’s, this is a great offer. Up to 10,000 MQMs may be purchased in 2,500 increments at a time. Miles can only be purchased on delta.com.
Incentive Travel – Finding the Perfect Fit
There are many types of incentive travel programs. The effort required to find the one that works best for your company or organization may be the reason you don’t have one. Understanding and structuring an effective incentive can be a daunting task and some companies just don’t see the value in it. It is worth your time and effort.
We have all heard “It takes money to make money” or “You can’t afford not to”. These are sayings that are parallel with company incentives. Whether you want to motivate employees or reward loyal customers, move inventory or increase sales, there is an incentive program out there for you. The incentive travel specialists at Menno Travel are available to help you consider your incentive travel options that will give you the most bang for your buck. Contact Ronda Morris or Maureen Russell to get started.
Argentina Changes Reciprocity Fee Policy
Any passenger visiting Argentina with an American, Canadian or Australian passport will be required to pay the Reciprocity Fee in advance online at the following site:
https://virtual.provinciapagos.com.ar/ArgentineTaxes/. They must register and pay with a credit card and a receipt will be given and must be shown upon their arrival in Argentina. Lack of proof of payment will result in the passenger being denied entry and they will be returned to their departure city by the airline. We strongly urge passengers to take this seriously!
TSA Removes X-Ray Body Scanners From Major Airports
The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has been quietly removing its X-ray body
scanners from major airports and replacing them with machines that radiation experts believe are safer. The decision was made not because of safety concerns but to speed up checkpoints at busy airports. The machines are being moved to smaller airports. Boston, Chicago O’Hare, Los Angeles, and JFK have had the machines removed. The replacement machines, known as millimeter-wave scanners, rely on low-energy radio waves similar to those used in cell phones. The machines detect potential threats automatically and quickly using a computer program. They display a generic cartoon image of a person’s body, mitigating privacy concerns.
You Earned It, Now Take It!
A survey by American Express found that 17% of those that earn paid vacation days will leave some of their days unused. The average American has eight unused vacation days and 34% of those days will expire at the end of the year.
What’s stopping you from taking that summer vacation, celebrating that anniversary or planning that once-in-a-lifetime trip? It doesn’t take much time to make a phone call or send an email, so start putting your vacation days to use! Contact Dorothy Shirk, Vacation Department Manager and let us arrange the perfect, well-deserved vacation!
P.S. Just having a vacation scheduled improves morale and productivity…
Menno Traveler – August 2012
160 days
Menno Traveler – August 2012
Geof Landis Celebrating 30 Years at Menno Travel!
Congratulations to Menno Travel co-owner, Geof Landis, on celebrating 30 years at Menno Travel! Geof began his career arranging vacation travel, and became the Manager of the Corporate Department and now the co-owner.
Travel Management Reports Help With Budgeting and Forecasting
Recently we assisted one of our corporate accounts with a report comparing what they spent on airline flights for the past two years, assisting with their budget process for 2013. We’ve also had companies call and ask where travelers had been in the first quarter of last year to plan their sales strategy for next year. In each case we were able to provide a report within a short time.
With iBank corporate reports through Menno Travel, you can:
- Access travel data 24/7 via the web
- Proactively manage travel policy compliance
- Reduce travel expenses
- Negotiate more effectively with suppliers
- Immediately access live travelers location information
- Produce and automatically distribute 120 standard and ad hoc reports
Your Menno Travel Account Manager will review your travel program and recommend the reports with the information you need, in the format you want. An Executive Summary with graphs and the Exception Air Report can be automatically emailed to our accounts. Customized reports are available; however, there may be an additional fee.
Contact Deb or Geof to learn how you can control travel expenses.
Frontier Flying Between South Bend and Denver
Frontier Airlines has new nonstop service between its Denver, Colorado, hub and South Bend, Indianawith four weekly nonstop flights beginning on Oct. 11, 2012. For more information, click here.
Comair Shutting Down
Delta Air Lines announced that Comair will cease operations after Sept. 29. Delta has repeatedly downsized Comair over the past seven years. One of the most-formidable regional carriers in the world less than a decade ago, Delta says is now shutting down the operation because Comair’s fleet of smaller regional jets have quickly become outdated and too expensive to fly in today’s market.
Delta claims that there will be no disruption to customers and no significant adjustments to Delta’s flight schedule or locations served.
TSA Pre-Check Expedited Security Program Keeps Expanding
TSA Pre-Check is an expedited screening initiative that is expanding to airports across the country. Houston is the most recent airport to join the program. Benefits of this program may include no longer being required to remove items such as shoes, 3-1-1 compliant bag from carry-on, laptop from bag, light outerwear/jacket and belt through security.
Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines and US Airways are contacting eligible frequent travelers with an invitation to opt-in. Once the passenger opts-in, the airline identifies the individual as a TSA Pre-Check participant when submitting passenger reservation information to TSA’s Secure Flight system.
Current members of U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)’s Global Entry, SENTRI and NEXUS Trusted Traveler programs are automatically eligible to participate in TSA Pre-Check. If your airline did not extend an invitation to you, you can still participate by joining a CBP Trusted Traveler program. Click here to learn more.
Note: If you have a Trusted Traveler membership number for any of these programs, please add it to your Traveler Profile. Contact your travel consultant if you have questions.
The following airport locations are participating in the pre-screening program:
Baltimore/Washington International ThurgoodMarshallAirport (BWI)
Cincinnati/NorthernKentuckyInternationalAirport(CVG)
DenverInternationalAirport(DEN)
FortLauderdale-HollywoodInternationalAirport(FLL)
HonoluluInternationalAirport(HNL)
HoustonGeorge Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
IndianapolisInternationalAirport(IND)
Lambert-St.LouisInternationalAirport(STL)
LouisArmstrongNew OrleansInternationalAirport(MSY)
LuisMuñozMarínInternationalAirport(SJU)
NewarkLibertyInternationalAirport(EWR)
PhiladelphiaInternationalAirport(PHL)
PhoenixSkyHarborInternationalAirport(PHX)
PittsburghInternationalAirport(PIT)
San FranciscoInternationalAirport(SFO)
TedStevensAnchorageInternationalAirport(ANC)
WashingtonDullesInternationalAirport(IAD)
Note:
► The TSA will determine eligibility for modified screening on a per-flight-segment basis and does not guarantee expedited screening on future travel.
► The TSA Pre-Check only applies to passengers with a domestic itinerary.
► The TSA will still apply a random factor to this modified screening initiative.
Client Testimonial
I just want to let you know that Dee Suski, who always does a great job for us, went “above and beyond” handling a recent situation. She took a potentially large problem and turned it into a non-issue by recognizing and understanding what was going on and figuring out a solution. I very much appreciate her willingness and ability in solving this problem. Having the knowledge and experience to help when there are issues is a major factor in making the decision to use Menno instead of booking online.
Sue
Gaska Tape
Hotels Are Considering Charging For Their Now Free Wi-Fi
Some of the larger hotel chains that offer free Wi-Fi are considering charging for it because of the demand for downloading from the internet. Marriott International and Carlson Hotels have some locations that offer free Wi-Fi and a faster choice for an additional cost. Wyndham Hotel Group offers the choice but is also looking at a tiered model. Hyatt, La Quinta and Starwood’s Four Points by Sheraton are in various stages of boosting bandwidth without adopting any new fees.
Travelers are using more mobile devices on the road, hence the increase in Wi Fi use. Free internet access is at the top of guest’s want lists and this is forcing hotels to purchase more bandwidth. About 40% of guests are carrying two Wi-Fi devices and 35% are carrying three or more, and they are using them for more than email. Between March 2011 and December 2011 the amount of data per session in hotels jumped 50%, which translates into higher costs. Hotels are looking at the increase in costs and they have to decide how much bandwidth to provide for free.
Keep Lithium Batteries in Carry-Ons
The risks of lithium battery fires in aircraft have been a matter of concern in recent years as they have been implicated in a number of cargo flight crashes. There have also been incidents in which lithium batteries in mobile phones have burst into flames even while switched off on the ground, including in airport terminals, and inside aircraft in flight as a passenger carry-on item.
The concerns about the batteries have also spread to tablets and PCs, where a small number of incidents have also been reported in general use. Passengers should carry their lithium battery powered devices with them into aircraft cabins so that they are readily accessible if they do ignite. Airlines are training cabin staff in extinguishing the intense fires that can follow a battery meltdown.
American Survey Shows Small Business Travel And Economic Outlook
American Airlines released results of a recent online survey of more than 1,100 American Airlines Business ExtrAA travel managers of small- and medium-size businesses (SMBs). The survey shows that 71 percent of SMB travel managers estimate the economic outlook for their companies is expected to improve in the next 12 to 18 months.
Despite mixed economic data regarding the strength of theU.S.economy, 93 percent of respondents called face-to-face meetings crucial or helpful to the success of their business. Approximately 86 percent of responding SMB travel managers project that their companies’ travel will either stay the same or increase up to 24 percent over the next year. Another 6 percent anticipated a travel increase of 25 percent or more over the next 12 months.
In addition, the survey found that 65 percent of small businesses travel within theU.S.most frequently, 14 percent travel more internationally, and 21 percent engage in both domestic and international travel equally. The top 10 domestic cities most traveled to by SMBs includedNew York,Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth,Los Angeles,San Francisco,Miami,Washington, D.C.,Las Vegas,AtlantaandBoston. Four of the top five domestic destinations for business by SMBs are key financial and business centers. They are among the largestU.S.metropolitan areas in terms of population size and are American hubs.
Like Us On Facebook and Win!
When you “like” us on Facebook during the month of August, your name will be entered into a drawing to win Three National Car Rental Coupons*. Race to the Menno Travel FB page at www.facebook.com/mennotravelservice and qualify!
*coupons are combinable and some restrictions apply.
~~ Vacation Value ~~
Celebrity’s Immersive Wine Cruise Special!
Exceptional new cruise vacations immerse you in the top wine-producing regions of Europe. Book a 2012 Celebrity Wine Cruise vacation and receive exclusive Menno Travel Amenities*. Sail round trip from Southampton, England on the Constellation between September 7 and November 18. Ports of call includeVigo,Spain; Porto (Leixoes),Portugal;Bilbao,Spain;Bordeaux (Le Verdon), France; Paris (Le Havre),France.
But don’t wait too long—this offer is limited! Experience a modern luxury vacation that will take you away and leave you completely restored and renewed. Contact dorothy@mennotrav.com for details.
* Amenities include Free Specialty Dining, $100 onboard credit and a bottle of wine. Terms and conditions apply.
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Menno Traveler June 2012
160 days
Menno Traveler – June 2012
Changes to United Reservations Within 24 Hours of Departure
United’s new reservation system is unable to notify us of schedule changes within 24 hours of a flight departure. Instead, they notify the traveler and when the traveler is already checked in online the reservation is under airport control. Once under airport control, changes can only be made directly with the airline. This includes complimentary premier upgrades and re-accommodations due to flight cancellations or delays.
Even when the traveler is not checked in, the airport takes control of flights leaving up to 6 hours prior to departure for international flights and up to 2 hours prior to departure for domestic flights.
We attempt to assist with these changes when possible; however, we may be limited and instruct you that your best recourse is to present yourself in person at the airport. Likewise, our After-Hours Emergency Service will have the same limitations that we have in making changes.
Travel Policy Includes Natural and Man-made Disaster Instructions
Part of our service to our customers includes putting together a Company Travel Policy to help control and track travel costs. Among many cost-saving policies, it also includes safety instructions for what to do if a natural or man-made disaster happens while an employee is traveling on business. Below is an example:
First, always follow the local official’s instructions to safeguard yourself. Should a natural or man-made disaster happen while traveling in your location or elsewhere that affects your travel or threatens your safety contact Menno Travel, American Express or the After-Hours Emergency Service as soon as possible. Our travel professionals will be making arrangements on your behalf, so contact them by phone, fax, email or whatever means available to you.
If the airlines suspended flights, your Menno Travel professional will make every effort to confirm a car rental for your return. If you are unable to communicate with Menno Travel, locate the nearest rental service and inquire about a reservation. If you have a rental car and can safely use it to return home, do so.
If you are unable to leave the area contact ‘COMPANY NAME’ and we will inform your family. If you contact your family please ask them to contact the office or your supervisor. In this way, we can better assist your return.
If you currently have a travel policy in place, contact Geof to have it reviewed. If you don’t have a policy, contact Deb or Geof to learn how a comprehensive travel policy can benefit your company.
Passport Expirations
Whether you’re traveling for business or taking a vacation, if you’re traveling outside the U. S.you will need a passport. In most cases, your passport needs to be valid 6 or 9 months beyond your scheduled return date. The best time to renew a passport is at least nine months prior to the expiration of your old one. New passports are taking about four weeks for processing, so check your expiration date and plan accordingly to enjoy carefree international travel! Click here for more passport tips.
Testimonial of Good Service Received
It’s always nice to get feedback from our clients! Thank you for your kind words, Betty.
Geof and Jill,
I just wanted to take a moment to thank you for the good service you offer at Menno Travel. Geof, as you are aware, our commencement speaker and his wife did not connect with the driver who was waiting for them at O’Hare last Thursday evening. Long story short, they did finally connect (after 3 hours) and the thing that helped save the day was the fact that you have an after-hours phone number on the electronic ticket and there is actually a ‘live’ person who answers! The benefit of going through a travel service who knows us is that you knew who to call at our office after hours and they in turn called me and the situation got resolved.
Again, thanks for your excellent customer service,
Betty
Average Business Travel Prices Have Risen, Study Finds
First-quarter data released by American Express Global Business Travel indicate that average business-travel prices have gone up. Average domestic airfares during the quarter of 2012 rose 6% from those in 2011, while average domestic hotel rates climbed 5% during the same period. To optimize travel budgets in this environment, it makes sense for companies to look at how they are encouraging compliance with corporate travel policies. It’s also wise for companies to regularly review their Menno Travel corporate travel reports to see how dollars are being spent.
Contact Deb or Geof to learn more about controlling travel expenses with a travel policy.
United and Delta Increase Bag Fees
United Airlines announced that it has matched Delta with an increase in its fee for a second checked bag. The fee has increased from $70 to $100 for flights from North America, the Caribbean, South America (excluding Braziland Venezuela) to Europe, the Middle East, Africa and India. Earlier this year, Delta Air Lines increased its fee for a second checked bag from $75 to $100, for travel from North America, the Caribbean, South America (excluding Brazil) to Europe and North Africa. For more information, see this updated Ancillary Fees Comparison Chart.
Paying More for Seats
It could get tougher to avoid getting stuck in that middle seat without paying an extra fee. Some airlines charge you for the ability to pick your own seat. But some of the larger carriers are increasing the number of seats that they’re holding for premium flyers. This means that on some airlines, you can pay for a seat for more legroom, but you can also pay to get a window or aisle seat or a seat closer to the front of the plane.
Free upgrades to Delta’s Economy Comfort are offered to Delta Sky Priority members as well as those purchasing non-discounted coach tickets (Y, B, M) and are discounted for Silver Medallion members. Click here for more information and a complete description of the benefits of Economy Comfort.
Why Taking a Vacation is Good For Your Business
You should take a vacation this summer, not only to get re-energized but also to make sure your company can carry on while you are away. Taking a vacation gives you a chance to test the capabilities of your second in command and can set a good example for your employees.
Pre-Screening Now Available to United Mileage Plus Members at O’Hare
If you are a United Mileage Plus member and aU.S.citizen, you may apply for the Transportation Security Administration’s pre-screening initiative program atChicago’s O’Hare airport. If accepted into the program, you won’t have to take off your shoes, light outerwear or belts. And laptops can be kept in cases along with certain liquids and gels in carry-ons.
More than 1.5 million passengers have received expedited screening through the TSA screening program since it began in October.
It’s now available in 16 airports forU.S.citizens who are select frequent flyers of participating airlines or members of U.S. Customs and Border Protection Trusted Traveler programs for travel within theU.S.
For more information on the U.S. Trusted Traveler program, click here.
5 Ways to Stay Connected While Traveling
iPads, iPhones and Androids are now in most carry-on bags. Staying connected has become a priority for anyone traveling outside the country. You can save yourself from huge voice and data roaming fees with a few simple tips.
1. Cellular Carrier Discount Plans
Most carriers offer temporary plans for every country and include call time and/or data. While not for unlimited web surfing, they’re perfect for a few calls and basic email while away. Tip: Call your carrier at least a week before your trip to find out what they offer.
2. Cruise Roaming
On top of international roaming charges, the ship’s cellular service adds their own fees. Most carriers now offer discounted roaming for specific cruise lines. Usually you have to sign up for a temporary add-on. Tip: Just type “cruise” in the search box on your carrier’s website for details.
3. There’s More to theUSAthan Just the Lower 48 States
Most phones work in US territories just like they do on the mainland usually with no extra fees. This includesPuerto Rico,AlaskaandHawaii.
4. SIM Cards and Cell Phones
Companies like MRSIMCARD.COM, XCOMGLOBAL.COM, and many others sell prepaid SIM cards for most countries. If your phone accepts a SIM card, place it into your phone to make calls or surf the web. If your phone is locked (most in theUSAare), you can ask your carrier to unlock your phone or rent an iPhone, Android or Blackberry with call time and data.
5. MiFi for WiFi for the Family
MiFi is a tiny wifi hotspot that fits in your pocket. It allows up to 5 different laptops, smartphones, iPads etc. to connect and surf the web at once. The same companies that rent the phones for every country also provide the MiFi. Expert tip: Use web-based calling services like Skype, Facetime or Google Talk and you can call home free.
2012 Notre Dame Home Football Game Schedule
Plan ahead when traveling into and out ofSouth Bendairport on these dates:
Sept 8 Purdue
Sept 22Michigan
Sept 28 OPEN
Oct 13 Stanford
Oct 20 BYU
Nov 3Pittsburgh
Nov 17WakeForest
Incentive Travel Offers Unique Experiences
A travel reward is unique from other types of rewards because it is experiential. The anticipation of the experience drives behavior in a way that other rewards can’t. A cash reward is often absorbed into the participant’s day-to-day budget and is then forgotten about. However, a travel incentive reward contributes to behavior change because of its appeal.
For example, if your group is large enough to do a full-ship charter, such as Windstar or a river cruise, customizing your cruise incentive program offers exclusivity, from company flags to flexibility in scheduling.
Smaller cruise groups on large ships still offer opportunities for customization:
• Private events onboard in lounges or specialty restaurants
• Private events and tours on-shore
• Exclusive transportation to and from port with airport lounge access
• Private captain’s reception
• Exclusive seating for dining and shows
• Exclusive hospitality desk
• Exclusive daily newsletter
• Closed-circuit TV broadcast of activities
• Stateroom door plaques
Whether a river cruise in Europe, around the islands ofHawaii, in the Med, or just a short cruise fromFlorida, the Menno Travel incentive travel specialists will make sure your incentive program brings your group together to build camaraderie and loyalty while helping you increase your profits.
Contact Ronda Morris today to discuss how a well-planned incentive travel program can help your company meet its goals.
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MTS Traveler April 2012
388 days
Menno Travel Saves Companies Money on Unused Tickets
Do you know who is monitoring airline tickets purchased online? Are unused business tickets being used for business or personal travel? Once a ticket is issued and paid for its like money! It can be used against another trip anywhere as long as it’s with the same airline. If your company has no monitoring system in place for these transactions, your company could be losing hundreds of dollars in unused tickets.
In 2011, Menno Travel tracked and reused 653 tickets for our corporate clients with a combined value of $316,240!
Through our management reporting feature, we are able to send an Unused Ticket Report to our corporate clients on a regular basis. This report lists the non-refundable tickets that are available for the company’s travelers. This information is also stored in each traveler’s personal profile for immediate access and use when making future reservations.
Contact Deb or Geof to start controlling travel expenses.
Old United Mileage Plus Numbers
When United took over Continental, they changed their Mileage Plus account numbers from 11 digits to 8 alphanumeric characters. Every Mileage Plus member has been issued a new account number.
In order for you to continue receiving mileage credit for United reservations, your new Mileage Plus number must be added to the reservation. If you are one of our accounts and have not already done so, please email your new Mileage Plus number to your travel professional.
If you do not know your new Mileage Plus number, you can find it by logging in to www.united.com using your old Mileage Plus number and PIN. Your new number will be displayed.
US Airways Phishing Emails
Recently there have been a large number of phishing emails arriving from US Airways. If you receive an airline ticket confirmation like this, we advise that you do not click on the link in the email. If you do have an airline reservation, go to the carrier site directly to view your reservation or refer to your email ticket confirmation. Emails like these are attempts to acquire your personal information to use for fraudulent purposes. Don’t fall into the trap!
Hotel Priority Club Theft Alert
Recently one of our clients was the victim of credit card fraud involving his hotel priority club card. He received an email confirmation from a hotel that he had not reserved and after contacting the hotel he learned that someone had booked a room using his priority club membership number. Because his credit card information was attached to his priority club card for speedy check-in, the person involved was able to make the reservation, check-in, and charge the room to the credit card.
The desk clerk failed to request ID or a credit card for imprinting. The police were called and upon entering the room found the thieves (a couple) still asleep in the bed, and they were apprehended and arrested! Our client was fortunate that no additional credit card fraud was attempted.
If you have hotel priority club cards, and have provided a credit card number to be attached to the account for express check-in, you might want to contact the hotels and have this changed for your protection to prevent credit card fraud.
Airline On-Time Performance Improves
Airline on-time performance was much better in January than it had been a year earlier, going up to an on-time arrival rate of 83.7 percent from 76.3 percent in January 2011. It was the best January for on time performance in 18 years, according to the Department of Transportation. Cancellations were down, too, with airlines cancelling just 1.5 percent of flights, down from 3.9 percent in January 2011. And, airlines reported no tarmac delays of more than three hours on domestic or international flights.
Allegiant Adding Flights from South Bend and Ft Wayne to Florida
South Bendand Ft Wayne airports announced new nonstop jet service toPuntaGordaAirport, located along the southwestFloridacoast, thirty minutes from Ft Myers. Service will begin June 27, 2012 fromSouth Bendand June 28 from Ft Wayne. Introductory one-way fares will be as low as $94.99* one way if booked by April 30. (*Limited seats and subject to terms and conditions.)
Allegiant To Charge For Carry-on Baggage;
Allegiant now charges $35 for a carry-on bag. The airline will allow customers to bring on one personal item free of charge, but only if the item can fit under the seat in front of them. Bags that must be put in overhead storage bins will cost $35 if not reserved in advance. If paid for in advance, a carry-on bag has varying charges based on the route, however, most fees are about half the cost when reserved and prepaid. The same is true for checked baggage charges.
Allegiant also recently reduced the allowable weight of a checked bag to a maximum of 40 pounds before additional charges apply. Be sure to check with the airlines website www.allegiantair.com for the most up to date fees, terms and conditions.
2012 Notre Dame Home Football Game Schedule
Plan ahead when traveling into and out ofSouth Bendairport on these dates:
Sept 8 Purdue
Sept 22 Michigan
Sept 28 OPEN
Oct 13 Stanford
Oct 20 BYU
Nov 3 Pittsburgh
Nov 17 WakeForest
Pinnacle Airlines Files Chapter 11
Pinnacle Airlines Corporation, which provides regional jet service for Delta, United and US Airways, filed for Chapter 11 court protection. The company’s reorganization plan calls for “restructuring its key operating agreements with Delta Air Lines and winding down its operations with United Airlines and US Airways”, according to a company statement. With a Chapter 11 filing, operations will be business as usual so we do not expect service problems.
GasBuddy App Handy for Rental Car Fill-ups
This is a great Smartphone app for locating gas stations near you and to see their current gas prices. Use this in places where you need to return a car rental with a full tank of gas. Not only will you find the least expensive gas prices, you can locate the station closest to the rental return location. For more information on this app, go to gasbuddy.com.
MTS Traveler March 2012
426 days
March 2012
Congratulations to Debi Riegsecker – 25 Years at Menno Travel!
Debi began her career in travel more than 30 years ago, and we have been fortunate to have her with us for the past 25, working with our corporate travelers. We appreciate her loyalty, her proficiency, and the cheerful, caring attention she gives to each of her clients. Thank you, Debi for 25 wonderful years!!
National Car Rental Emerald Club Members Enjoy Free Upgrades
One reason to become an Emerald Club Member; Almost no Emerald Club Member who paid for an intermediate car actually took one. Most got full-size, SUVs, or crossover vehicles at the same price. Also, over 99% of all Emerald Club vehicles now have less than 20,000 miles on them. And when you sign up through Menno Travel Service, your Emerald Club Membership fee is waived!
Additional Member Benefits Include:
- Reserve a midsize vehicle, then bypass the counter and choose any car on the Emerald Aisle®
- Drop & GoSM for faster rental return
- Choice of rewards – free rental days or frequent travel miles/points
- Ability to earn rental credits for qualifying rentals at participating Enterprise Rent-A-Car® locations.
Contact Deb or Geof to sign up for a fee-waived Emerald Club Membership.
Delta Adds Atlanta Flights
Beginning in June, Delta Air Lines will be adding another daily inbound and outbound flight toAtlantafromSouth Bend. With a total of four daily departures toAtlanta, and six a day toDetroit,South Bendtravelers will find it easier to find connections to any of Delta’s 350 worldwide destinations.
Beginning this summer, Delta will also begin offering an additional flight betweenFort WayneandAtlanta.
Preferred Seating on Delta Available For Purchase
On select international flights, Delta customers who do not qualify for complimentary Preferred Seats will now be able to purchase unassigned Preferred Seats starting 24 hours prior to departure. Preferred Seats for purchase will be available on all international flights exiting theUnited Statesand on other select international flights. Preferred Seats remain complimentary for Medallion members.
Preferred Seats include desirable window, aisle and exit row seats, which may be purchased for a fee as little as $39 USD per segment. Customers who were assigned Preferred Seats prior to the launch of the seat sales will retain their seat assignments at no additional charge.
For additional information on Preferred Seats, click here.
New United Mileage Plus Numbers
With the merger of Continental into United, the new UA Mileage Plus numbers have changed from 11-digit to 8-digit numbers. United says they’ll accept the old number “for a short time”, and then it will not be recognized by their system.
If you are one of our travelers and have a new UA Mileage Plus number, please update your traveler profile or advise your new number as soon as possible. For complete information regarding the two mileage programs, click here.
United Still Working on Merger Issues
FYI – United Airlines said because of their merger with Continental, they are still having problems with the following: Boarding passes occasionally reflect incorrect boarding groups for Premier members; Delays in crediting flown mileage to MileagePlus accounts; Isolated cases of lower Premier Qualification balances, that can result temporarily in an incorrect Premier level reflected; Intermittent delays with Complimentary Premier Upgrades; Difficulties redeeming electronic and paper certificates online; Difficulties redeeming upgrades online; Flights displaying out of order when viewing itinerary online. They also said there are longer wait times to reach the airline’s phone contact centers and the airline is increasing staff to handle this.
Patience is appreciated as they continue to work on their challenges.
More Travelers Taking Advantage of PreCheck Program
The Department of Homeland Security’s PreCheck “trusted traveler” program now has about 420,000 members — frequent fliers who pay a fee and undergo an investigation so they can skip long waits at the airport. An additional 570,000 trusted travelers have paid to be part of an international travel program run by Customs and Border Protection. Global Entry, which “is open toU.S.citizens and permanent residents as well as Canadian, Mexican and Dutch nationals,” is the largest program.
Click here for more information on this program and how to begin registration.
Another Reason to Book Air/Hotel With Menno Travel!
Did you know that when you book hotels and air flights on supplier websites you give up certain rights? Click here to read an article detailing how the terms and conditions are much stricter when booking online than when booking with a travel agent.
Virtual Concierge at Hyatt Hotels
Hyatt Hotels Corporation, during the next two years, plans to install virtual concierge technology in 60,000 full-service guest rooms across theUnited States,Canadaand theCaribbean. Supplied by Roomlinx, the system provides a television interface through which guests can print documents and presentations, obtain information on group functions, order room service and amenities and search the Internet. Hyatt already installed the technology in a few locations, including its Andaz property inNew Yorkand Hyatt Regency properties inNew OrleansandDenver.
Go Africa Pass from SkyTeam Offers Discounts and Flexibility
SkyTeam has launched its new Go Africa Pass providing discounted travel and greater flexibility throughout 36 African countries on flights operated by Kenya Airways.
The pass is available to travelers flying with any of SkyTeam’s 15 member airlines on an intercontinental round-trip toAfricaor a Go Round the World ticket.
You can opt from a minimum of three to a maximum of 16 flight coupons. Fares are calculated based on the number of miles flown non-stop, offering discounts of up to 75% off standard fares, depending on the itinerary. Coupons have no minimum stay, open-jaw itineraries are permitted and passengers can stop in each city multiple times.
For more information on the Go Africa Pass click here.
Use Individual Incentives to Reward Your Best of the Best
While group travel incentives are right for many programs, there are times when individual incentives are the right choice. Royal Caribbean International® brings you a program that recognizes individuality, and rewards it accordingly. Unlike group incentive travel, individual incentive travel gives recipients the freedom to go where they want, when they want and with whomever they want. This is the highest form of recognition; a huge value for your most valued sales people, staff members, dealers, suppliers or others that you work with.
Key Program Benefits:
Choose from a wide range of certificates at a variety of price points
No minimum/no maximum – order as many or as few certificates as you like
Endless choices for departure ports, ships, itineraries, nights and accommodations
Upgradable and transferable certificates
No expiration date on certificates
Contact Maureen or Ronda at Menno Travel for details.
Vacation Value – Europe Wine Cruises This Fall
Experience Europe’s centuries-old vineyards on an updated luxury vacation. Wine enthusiasts and culture seekers alike will savor Celebrity Cruise’s Immersive Europe Wine Cruises aboard Celebrity Constellation®. Open for sale now!
• Visit classic wine countries such asFrance,Spain, andPortugal.
• Overnights in Paris (Le Havre),France,Bordeaux(Le Verdon),France, andBilbao,Spain, you’ll have plenty of time to sipChampagnein the City ofLight—and visit Normandie orVersailles.
• Taste robustBordeauxin… where else,Bordeaux.
• Discover the Rioja region outsideBilbao—and visit the Guggenheim museum.
• These sailings take place at the height of the wine year—fall harvest—a highly anticipated time for every vintner.
• Your onboard experience will be enhanced with activities—developed in partnership with local wineries—that highlight this amazing region of the world and time of y ear.
• Enjoy Rioja tastings. Champagne brunches. Bordeaux Chateau Tours (featuring up to five wines from well-known Bordeaux Chateaus). Port and Food Pairing Dinners. And so much more.
Cruise pricing starting from $899 on November sailings. Gateways and air pricing starting from NYC $821, DTW $978, ATL $945.
Contact your Menno Travel Vacation Specialist at 574-534-1521 or email dorothy@mennotrav.com.
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Menno Travel Service Phone: 574-534-1521 / 800-635-0963 * Fax: 574-534-2158
MTS Traveler February 2012
452 days
by dorothy
in MTS Traveler
February 2012
Corporate Travel Management Strategy
Contact Deb or Geof to learn how you can control travel expenses.
SBN Terminal Building Expansion Completed
After almost twenty-seven months of intensive work, the expansion of theSouth BendAirportterminal is complete. All of the screening equipment has been replaced by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), and the airport now has the Advanced Image Technology device, known as an AIT. It will scan a person’s body, highlighting areas of interest on a cartoon character displayed on a screen seen only by the machine operator (yes, really!). A traveler may decline to use the scanner, but must then undergo a full pat-down procedure. The device is accurate and will speed the screening process dramatically, as long as most everyone uses it. The outdoor covered walkway that has been used during the terminal construction will no longer be necessary.
South Bend Airport’s Executive Director John Schalliol Retires
There is a new face to lead the future of theSouth BendAirport, following the retirement John Schalliol. Michael Daigle, AAE has been named Executive Director of the St. Joseph County Airport Authority and will take the helm at SBN, following Schalliol’s retirement. February 29.
Airfare Increases, But Still Lags Behind Inflation
Average domestic airfares rose to $361 in the third quarter of 2011, up 6.2 percent from the average fare of $340 in the third quarter of 2010, according to the latest figures from the Department of Transportation. But fares are still a good deal. Airfares in the third quarter of 2011 increased 7.1 percent from the third quarter of 2000, not adjusted for inflation, compared to an overall increase in consumer prices of 30.6 percent during that period. In the 16 years since 1995, when the DOT began tracking fares, airfares rose 25.5 percent compared to a 48.1 percent inflation rate. The average inflation-adjusted third-quarter 2011 fare in 1995 dollars was $244 compared to $288 in 1995 and $297 in 2000.
Business Travel Growing Steadily
Business travel appears poised to continue to grow despite economic uncertainty, according to the latest Business Travel Quarterly Outlook –United Statesfrom the Global Business Travel Association (GBTA). The report found that business travel was stronger than expected last year, and that growth should continue. Trip volume was up 3.1 percent; travel spending was up 8.3 percent for the quarter. For the year, total person trips will hit 445 million; total spending will hit $252 billion, 2.1 percent and 7.6 percent increases, respectively The GBTA is forecasting that business travel spending will increase 4.6 percent this year, although person-trips will decline by .8 percent. Prices will increase more slowly this year than last year. Travel price inflation should be 2.2 percent in 2012, compared to 4.3 percent last year.
Meet Your Goals with a Well-Planned Incentive Program
Many of our incentive travel clients use incentives for attaining sales goals. That’s great, but incentives help you reach other goals as well:
► Is seasonality a problem? Use incentives to encourage clients to place orders or take on inventory during slow times.
► Need to introduce a new product? Use incentives to get attention.
► Need to move stale inventory? Travel incentives do that while maintaining price integrity.
► Need to reduce waste? Use incentives to reward employees for reducing waste.
► Want to build your relationship and loyalty among your best clients? A well-planned group travel incentive brings you together through shared experiences.
► A well-planned incentive program can fund itself. Does yours?
Contact Maureen Russell or Ronda Morris to learn how incentive travel programs will help you reach your management goals, whether sales or other.
PS: Start planning now if you wish to travel in winter 2013!
Southwest Airlines Now Flies To Atlanta
Southwest launches 15 daily flights fromAtlanta, with routes toAustin, Baltimore/Washington,Denver, Houston Hobby and Chicago Midway.
Delta Amends International Baggage Fee
Effective January 24, 2012 Delta has raised the fee to $100 USD from $75 USD to check a second bag at the airport for travel from the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, Central America, South America (excluding Brazil) to Europe and North Africa.
The fee to check a second bag at the airport for travel from Europe and North Africa to the U.S., Canada, Mexico, Caribbean, Central America, South America (excluding Brazil) remains at 75EUR.
Prepaying baggage fees online 24 hours prior to departure is less expensive. Click here for complete Delta Checked Baggage details.
American Airlines Offers Complimentary Beer and Wine on Flights
Travelers on American-operated flights between the U.S.and Europe, the U.S.and Asia and onboard long-haul flights between the U.S.and Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay, can choose from a variety of complimentary beer and wine options. This is in addition to the full selection of nonalcoholic beverages, and liquor available for purchase. With complimentary beer and wine served in all classes of service, American is now better aligned with fellow oneworld® alliance members. Beer, wine and spirits will remain complimentary for customers traveling in the First and Business Class cabins. For more information on American’s beverage service, visit AA.com/beerandwine.
The Credit Card With The Most Benefits For Business Travelers
Click here to visit the new American Express Corporate Platinum Card website listing all of the benefits to being a Corporate Platinum card member. In addition, you’ll find tip and trend articles and business travel tools. Among the card benefits are VIP airport clubs worldwide, expedited Passport Clearance, complimentary inflight Internet sessions, personal concierge assistance, Membership Rewards points, upgrades and premium amenities at more than 700 of the world’s leading hotels.
To learn more or to sign up for a Corporate Platinum Card, contact Geof.
Cut The Cost Of Using Your Smartphone Internationally
Here is a link to an article with some creative workarounds to paying huge amounts for international wireless data plans. It pays off to plan ahead and know the options available to avoid roaming or data charges on cell phones while traveling.
VACATION VALUE
Perfectly Paired Exclusive Vacation Offers from Menno Travel
Perfectly Paired is a collection of carefully chosen, upscale hotels and resorts around the world providing special services, amenities and activities for couples looking to embrace much needed time alone. We can offer these packages exclusively to our clients through American Express Vacations.
Sample 3-night vacation: Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort and Spa – $821
Sample per person American Express Vacations hotel package includes:
• 4-day compact car rental with Hertz
• 3-night hotel accommodations
• Hotel tax
Perfectly Paired benefits:*
• Complimentary poolside private cabana usage (one day, per stay)
• Early check-in (12pm) and late check-out (4pm)
Whether you are craving a long weekend away without the kids, want to celebrate a special occasion or are just looking for an experience that will take your breath away, Perfectly Paired was designed to pair you with the right destination and accommodations for your perfect escape. Call our vacation travel professionals or email dorothy@mennotrav.com and plan your next getaway!
*Sample offer valid on 3-night minimum stays for new Perfectly Paired by American Express Vacations bookings made by 1/31/12 and traveled by 6/30/12. Perfectly Paired package inclusions are subject to change for 2012 travel. Perfectly Paired bookings do not need to be booked with an American Express® Card and are not valid toward group bookings. Terms and conditions may apply to amenities and vary based on the property and package booked. Rates are land only, per person, double occupancy based onAlohaGardenroom category. Advertised rates valid for travel 1/15/12 – 2/10/12 .Blackout, weekend, holiday peak season surcharges apply. Rates and promotions are accurate at time of posting and are subject to changes,exceptions, cancellation charges and restrictions. New bookings only please. Blackout dates apply. All advertised savings are reflected in price. Not responsible for errors or omissions in the printing of this posting.
MTS Traveler January 2012
486 days
by dorothy
in MTS Traveler
January 2012
***Celebrating the life and achievements of Martin Luther King Jr. ***
American Express Membership Rewards Pay Off!
Recently Menno Travel redeemed a company’s American Express Card Membership Rewards for 28 airline tickets, resort accommodations, meals and entertainment totaling $68,000 for their company retreat. The only out-of-pocket expense they incurred was for three rental cars.
And, another company receives between 200,000 to 300,000 American Express Membership Rewards monthly on their card account. They have been able to use Pay with Points for all of their airline tickets.
The American Express Pay with Points program is a seamless process at Menno Travel Service, with no additional charge. Click here for more information on Pay with Points and then contact Geof or Deb to see how simple this can be for you!
Don’t have an American Express Card? Click here for a description of the card types and benefits and to apply for a card.
Incentive Travel Corner
Most companies offer an incentive travel program for an ROI through increased sales, shifting seasonality, moving stale inventory, or introducing new products. While these “hard” benefits are important, it’s important not to miss out on the “soft” benefit of building strong relationships with your customers through shared experiences.
The best way to ensure shared experiences is by using a controlled venue where interaction among the group is guaranteed. Las Vegasand a huge cruise ship are tough places to keep a group together.
River cruises inEuropemight be the right option for you. Ships have 75 to 82 staterooms and can be chartered or part-chartered with enough advance notice. Space is tight for 2012, so now is the time to plan for 2013. River cruises offer great value with accommodations, all meals onboard, wine and beer with dinner, and most sightseeing included.
For the 2013 season, AMAWaterways offers a choice of 7-night cruise venues in France aboard the MS AmaLegro or MS AmaDagio. Cruise round-tripParis on theSeineRiver to enjoy the splendor of Paris, beautiful Honfleur, Monet’s gardens,Rouen and the Normandy D-Day landing beaches. Or cruise the South of France and revel in Roman ruins,Provence and splendid vineyards. Both itineraries contain fabulous excursions and more than 80% of the staterooms contain a full sliding glass door with French Balconies so each guest can soak up the beauty of the countryside right from their stateroom.
Contact Mary Ann or Moe for your next incentive program.
Welcome Ronda Morris to Menno Travel!
We welcome Ronda Morris as our newest Group and Incentive Travel Specialist. Ronda started in group travel with Warsaw Travel Specialists about 30 years ago. In recent years, Ronda owned and operated Destinations Travel in Warsaw. Menno Travel acquired Destinations in December adding Rebecca Gehrke as a vacation travel specialist and Ronda to our group department.
In addition to her knowledge of travel suppliers and destinations, Ronda brings strong organizational and technology skills. Ronda joins Maureen Russell, Tara Nisley, and Mary Ann Holderman in Groups.
Hertz Mobil Gold Alert
“Carfirmation” is a cool mobile alert that Hertz offers Gold Plus Rewards members. They will let you know which car you will be driving and where it will be parked when you arrive. That way you can head straight to your car, get in and go! To sign up for this alert, or to update your preferences, click here.
If you (or your company) do not have a Hertz Gold Plus membership, contact Geof or Deb to sign up for a fee-free account through Menno Travel Service.
Reminder: Notify your Menno Travel agent if your Hertz number has changed.
SkyTeam Introduces Priority Airport Service
SkyTeam, the global airline alliance, offers SkyPriority, a series of priority airport services to Elite Plus, First and Business Class customers. SkyPriority was created by Delta Air lines in 2010 to ensure a common and consistent service standard for priority airport services, and due to its success, SkyTeam adopted the program. The roll-out of the program will start in March 2012 at selected airports.
SkyPriority services include:
Priority check-in areas
Priority baggage drop-off
Priority service at airport ticket offices
Priority service at transfer desks
Priority lines at security, where available
Priority boarding
Priority baggage handling
Each member airline has its own implementation date and roll-out timeline. Some of the first airports where SkyPriority will be launched areAmsterdam,Atlanta,Guangzhou,Nairobi,ShanghaiandTaipei. By early 2013, SkyPriority will be visible at over 1,000 airports.
The Wall Street Journal’s Middle Seat Puts American Last
Each year the Journal releases Middle Seat, ranking carriers on their customer service performance. American was picked for last place as the airline that loses bags, cancels flights and has the worst customer service. The best-performing carrier last year was Alaska Airlines, the smallest among the seven majorU.S.airlines. Delta came in second after placing ninth in 2010. United/Continental just came in ahead of American with their combined scores.
The Middle Seat scorecard ranks major carriers each year on a number of key measures important to travelers: on-time arrivals, long delays, canceled flights, mishandled bags, passengers bumped from flights and complaints filed with the Department of Transportation. Delta engineered a major operational turnaround last year. In 2010, Delta was second-worst in punctuality and baggage handling among rival airlines and it had the highest rates of canceled flights and consumer complaints filed with the DOT. For 2011, Delta ranked in the top three in five of six categories.
More Airline Consumer Protection Laws to Kick In
There are new Department of Transportation airline consumer protection rules going into effect January 24. Airlines will have to promptly notify travelers via their websites and phone of delays of more than 30 minutes or flight cancellations. And they have to include all government taxes and fees in advertised fares (they’ve got until January 26 on this one). They’ve got to show all baggage fees during booking and on e-tickets. Finally, once you’ve bought a ticket, they can’t raise the fare unless it’s due to a government tax and you agree to pay the increase.
This is a huge win for anyone trying to control travel costs. Last May we asked for your help to encourage our government policymakers to come up with these rules, and now we see results, so thank you!
TSA Expands Pre-Screening to New Airports
Sick of that security check rigmarole of taking off your shoes and belt and pulling out your laptop and those three-ounce bottles of shampoo? The Transportation Security Administration is adding airports using the TSA Pre Check program. If you qualify for TSA Pre Check, you volunteer information about yourself that is embedded in the bar code of your ticket. You can then go through the expedited screening lane, which means you might not have to take off your shoes or pull out your laptop. Pre Check is now available at Las Vegas’ McCarran International. Next up: Minneapolis-St. Paul and LAX. United Airlines is joining the program; some of American Airlines and Delta Air Lines’ frequent travelers are also eligible as well as participants in Trusted Traveler programs, including Global Entry, SENTRI, and NEXUS, who are U.S.citizens and are flying on participating airlines. For more information click here.
Vacation Value
**American Express Platinum and Centurion Card Members Specials**
Book any 5-Night or longer Royal Caribbean cruise between now and February 15 and receive these exclusive Cruise Privileges Program benefits:
►Two category upgrade or between $50 to $300 onboard credit per stateroom
– Offer (either upgrade or onboard credit) will be determined by stateroom category selected.
►Complimentary dinner for two in a specialty dining restaurant*
►Bottle of premium champagne
*Guests aboard ships without a specialty restaurant will receive a complimentary spa treatment in place of dinner.
In addition, if you book a balcony or above category stateroom on a Royal Caribbean cruise before February 15 you will receive a Complimentary Spa Treatment**, just by booking with an American Express Travel Representative!
** Bookings must be created at least two weeks prior to sailing.
If you are not a Platinum or Centurion Card Member, or if you do not have an American Express card, click here for a description of the card types and to apply for a card.
American Express’s Cruise Privileges Program offers added benefits on Royal Caribbean and other premium and luxury cruise lines for Platinum and Centurion cardmembers. Your Menno Travel vacation specialist can provide full information.
Contact dorothy@mennotrav.com or your Menno Travel vacation specialist today to take advantage of this American Express special or to book any cruise or land vacation.
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Menno Travel Service Phone: 574-534-1521 / 800-635-0963 * Fax: 574-534-2158
If you would like to be removed from Menno Travel’s business traveler newsletter list, please click here.
October MTS Traveler
493 days
October 2011
Incentive Travel Program Success with Royal Caribbean Cruise
What a way to achieve business objectives while realizing a good return on investment! On a Royal Caribbean cruise, your company can accomplish your goals with unparalleled value, ease of planning along with the delivery of a meaningful and memorable experience for you and your participants.
Mid-City Supply, headquartered in Elkhart, Indiana, returned last week from taking 153 employees and customers on a Mediterranean cruise on Royal Caribbean’s Liberty of the Seas visiting Spain, southern France and Italy. This is what they had to say about the experience:
“Since we started planning our Mediterranean cruise back in early 2008, Maureen, Mary Ann and Dorothy (Menno Travel Incentive Travel Staff) have been along side Jeff New (Mid-City Supply Owner) and myself every step of the way. Their attention to detail during this process was simply fantastic. While on board the ship, they interacted with our customers in every professional way possible. They were always available to answer questions or to help with any situation. Plus, they provided us with some nice surprises during our final night on board.
Our goal is to give our customers the very best travel experience possible and once again, thanks to the Menno Travel ladies, we delivered another “trip of a lifetime.“ In a word, your team is Outstanding.”
- Jeff Stevens, Vice President Sales and Marketing at Mid-City Supply
American Express Platinum Cardmember Benefits Expanded
Take advantage of these new Travel Benefits for Corporate Platinum Cardmembers:
► Global Entry Membership Application Reimbursement: With Global Entry, there’s no need to wait in the passport line. This U.S. Customs and Border Protection program allows participants to enter the United Statesby using automated kiosks located at 20 major airports around the country. Corporate Platinum Card members will be reimbursed the $100 application processing fee when paid with the Corporate Platinum Card. Apply online at globalentry.gov.
► Complimentary Gogo®: Corporate Platinum Card members can now enjoy 10 complimentary in-flight Internet sessions on any Gogo-equipped flight each year. Participating airlines include Air Canada, AirTran, AlaskaAirlines, American Airlines, Delta, Frontier, United, USAirways, and Virgin America. Corporate Platinum Card members can simply use their Card to pay for a Gogo session and receive a statement credit within six weeks upon receipt of their bill. For more information about Gogo, please visit gogoair.com.
► Access to Airspace Lounge™: Corporate Platinum Card members, and up to two guests, can now catch up on business in the newly opened Airspace Lounge at Baltimore Washington International airport, regardless of which airline they are flying.
Contact Geof or Deb for information on other travel benefits through American Express.
American Changes Boarding Policy For Economy Passengers
American now boards economy class passengers in a randomized order based on how they check in for a flight. First-class, AAdvantage premium frequent fliers and uniformed members of the military still board first. According to American the change was made “to enhance the travel experience for our customers and to make the boarding process more welcoming and more personal.” Flight attendants are not happy with the new procedure saying it is causing “complete chaos in the cabin.” The new policy is similar to the one that Southwest Airlines has employed for years. American introduced “priority boarding” last year, guaranteeing Group 1 boarding. That costs $9 per flight segment.
United MileagePlus and Continental OnePass Merger
All of the 2012 MileagePlus features and benefits will take effect on the day the Continental OnePass and United MileagePlus technology systems are converted to a single system in early 2012. Until then, the MileagePlus and OnePass programs will continue to operate separately as they do today.
At system conversion, OnePass members will be automatically enrolled in MileagePlus and receive MileagePlus award miles equal to their OnePass award miles balance. If you already have a MileagePlus account, we encourage you to link it to your OnePass account now. Sept 30th was the last day to transfer miles from Continental to United.
Go to onepassmergerupdates.com for additional information on the merger.
United MileagePlus New Status-Levels
Beginning in 2012, MileagePlus will adopt new status-level names and terms for qualifying miles and segments. The MileagePlus status levels will be:
► Premier® 1K® 100,000 Premier qualifying miles (PQM) or 120 Premier qualifying segments (PQS)
► Premier Platinum 75,000 PQM or 90 PQS
► Premier Gold 50,000 PQM or 60 PQS
► Premier Silver 25,000 PQM or 30 PQS
All levels will require a minimum of four flights per calendar year on the new United, including Continental or Copa Airlines. If you hold a Chase-issued Continental Airlines Presidential Plus(SM) Card, you are exempt from this minimum flight criteria as long as your Card account is in good standing at the time of qualification.
UA and CO combine/rename airport clubs as United Club
United and Continental airlines renamed their separate airport clubs this past Saturday, another step toward combining the two carriers. The lounges will be called United Club, replacing United’s Red Carpet Club and Continental’s Presidents Club. Together, they have more than 50 lounges at 39 airports.
Delta Airlines Updates
First Class is now available on 228 Delta Connection regional jets. Delta is the onlyU.S.carrier to offer a First Class cabin on every domestic flight longer than 750 miles (approximately 2.5 hours).
This summer, Delta began offering its new Economy Comfort class on international flights on more than 160 aircraft. Located in the first few rows of the economy cabin, Economy Comfort features:
• Up to four additional inches of legroom and 50 percent more recline
• Early boarding
• Complimentary spirits, in addition to all other standard international Economy Class amenities, including complimentary meals, beer, wine, entertainment, blankets and pillows
• In-seat power on most aircraft equipped with personal entertainment systems, along with free HBO programming and other for-fee content. In-seat power and seat-back screens are being installed through 2013.
Delta has in-flight Internet service onboard its regional CRJ700 aircraft operated by Delta Connection carrier Atlantic Southeast Airlines.
SkyMiles members will now have the option to use their miles to upgrade on AirFranceoperated flights between the domesticU.S.andEurope.
Delta Raising Bag Fees on International Flights
Tickets Issued on/after Oct 1 for travel on/after Oct 15:
2nd bag fee to $40 USD/CAD for travelUS, CA, MX, C. America, Caribbean to/from MX, C. America,Caribbean
2nd bag fee of $75 USD/CAD and $60 USD/CAD online for travel US, CA, MX, C. America, Caribbean, S. America (excluding Brazil) to/from Asia (excluding JP, PH), Australia, New Zealand
2nd bag fee of $75 USD/CAD and $60 USD/CAD online for travel US, CA, MX, C. America, Caribbean to/from S. America (excluding Brazil)
2nd bag fee of $40* USD/CAD for travelJapan(entire country) to/from Guam/Saipan/Palau
2nd bag fee of $75 USD/CAD/EUR and $60 USD/CAD/EUR online for travel between South America (excludingBrazil) andEurope
Tickets Issued on/after Oct 1 for travel on/after Nov 1:
2nd bag fee of $75 USD/CAD and $60 USD/CAD online for travel US, CA, MX, C. America, Caribbean, S. America (excluding Brazil) to/from Middle East and South Africa
2nd bag fee of $75 USD/CAD and $60 USD/CAD online for travel US, CA, MX, C. America, Caribbean, S. America (excluding Brazil) to/from India
1st bag fee of $25* USD/CAD for travelUS, CA to/fromCaribbean(excluding DO, GY, HT)
*Same fee applies for online or airport check-in
Note: There are no changes to existing baggage exceptions for Military, Elite etc.
Stiffer Airline Consumer Protection Laws Now in Effect
It’s official. The new Department of Transportation rules designed to give airline passengers more protections are in effect. That means airlines now have to refund your baggage fees if they lose your bags. If you’re bumped from a flight, they now have to pay double what they used to for that inconvenience. The ban on lengthy tarmac delays now covers international carriers as well as domestic carriers.
An Airline-Related Funny
A vulture approaches the gate to board an airplane, carrying two dead raccoons. The stewardess stops him and says, ‘I’m sorry, sir, only one carrion allowed per passenger.”
– thank you, corporate client BJ Thompson
Aviation, Past and Future, Viewed Through the Prism of 9/11
What’s the state of the airline industry a decade after 9/11? Airlines today are leaner and more resilient than they’ve ever been, according to the International Air Transport Association’s just released “The Impact of September 11 on Aviation.” Airline revenues this year will be nearly double what they were in 2001 and they’re flying one billion more passengers than they did a decade ago. Still, 9/11 cost airlines about three years of growth and profit margins remain slim.
The report’s main focus, however, was less on the past and more on the future. It looked specifically at how to improve the check-in experience, turning it from an obstacle course to a more streamlined experience. The goal is to use data the airlines already have to judge the risk travelers present and allocate security resources toward screening and checking high-risk passengers. Scans of passengers’ passports or tickets would send them to one of three different lanes. Most travelers would simply stroll through a checkpoint that can detect metal and other dangerous substances–without having to stop, unpack or strip. This type of progress is certainly good news!
International Driver Permits Now Required in Some Countries
When traveling abroad, many foreign countries do not recognize yourUnited Statesdriver’s license as official identification. However, most countries do recognize a valid International Driving Permit (IDP) — and, in some countries, such asItaly, it’s now a requirement.
Major car rental companies in foreign countries often require you have a valid IDP, in conjunction with your validU.S.driver’s license, before they will rent you a vehicle.
If you are 18 or older, you can apply for an IDP at any AAA full-service branch location and receive it in the same visit. The application form is available online. You will need to provide:
►U.S.driver’s license valid for at least six months past the issuance of the IDP.
► Completed IDP application.
► Two original passport-type photos. (See guidelines for specific requirements.)
► $15 fee.
You may also obtain an IDP through the mail; however, you will need to allow 4-6 weeks for processing and delivery. For more information on IDP, click here .
Here’s An Interesting Phone App
Jibbigo is a language App that can be used on any iOS iphone, iPad, iPod or Android
product. The App costs $4.99 per language and is available for translating English into and back from Spanish, French, German, Japanese, Iraque, Arabic, Chinese, Tagalog and Korean. Each language has a 40,000-word vocabulary and costs $4.99 and 10 minutes to download. The program works entirely on the mobile device and is not connected to any server therefore no roaming charges. You speak to the device and it answers in the chosen language. For more information go to jibbigo.com.
Hertz Launches eReturn Service
On your Hertz car rentals, you can now receive an eReceipt as part of their new eReturn Service. To sign up for this service, you must go to the Vehicle Preference page of the online Gold profile (Hertz #1 Gold Club membership is free through Menno Travel!) and check “eReturn” to sign up. And then, when you return your car, just fill in the Express Return slip on the Rental Agreement and leave it with the keys on the dash. Simply drop and go – Hertz takes care of the rest.
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December MTS Traveler
493 days
by dorothy
in MTS Traveler
December 2011
Our Office Will Be Closed December 26 and January 2
We wish you Happy Holidays as we say farewell to 2011 and welcome 2012. If you need to reach our After Hours Hotline for travel assistance while our office is closed, please call 888-367-1633 and advise the hotline agent of our VIT Code P-3ND. We apologize for any inconvenience.
Top Three Reasons Managed Travel Programs Work for Business Travel
Number 1) Contain the rising cost of travel – can’t measure, can’t manage, can’t control.
Number 2) Traveler security – know where your employees are in the world.
Number 3) Fraud protection – more than 20% of fraud is related to the expense claims process.
Is your company effectively managing its travel? Menno Travel offers both fully managed and lightly managed travel services. Contact Geof or Deb for details on each program.
Redefining Lowest Logical Airfare
For your corporate travel policy, consider expanding your definition of “logical” beyond price, scheduling and corporate discounts–to the benefit of both your travelers and your organization. The traditional, old-school lowest logical airfare approach–booking flights based primarily on price and schedule–simply doesn’t cut it anymore. Consider the following:
• Fees: Does your definition of lowest logical fare include ancillary fees that can increase the cost of a trip by 10 to 30 percent?
• Productivity: Is it logical to have a business traveler fly across the country on an aircraft that doesn’t offer Wi-Fi, a power port or enough room between seats to even open a laptop, when you know they want to work?
• Status: Is the $75 in savings worth it when the traveler does not have priority boarding, overhead space and had to check their bag (and wait for it at the other end), and of course, enjoyed all the pleasures associated with a middle seat in the rear of the aircraft?
Few corporate travel policies consider what the traveler wants or how the changing travel landscape could impact their travel program. By understanding the needs of travelers and their greater mission for the company, the travel manager can better manage the overall experience–keeping costs down, and compliance to corporate policies and traveler satisfaction high.
Contact Geof or Deb to help you update or create a travel policy for your business.
Corporate Cards Save Money for Businesses of All Sizes
Companies that fail to use corporate cards for travel and entertainment spending are losing out in negotiating clout, travel policy compliance, back office efficiency, traveler satisfaction and potential card rebates. Regardless of how much a company spends on travel and entertainment, a card program will create huge benefits.
How much in savings will a card program yield? The typical company can cut 15% from spending on contract commodities like air, hotel and car, according to Martin Cannings, product director for Citi commercial cards in Europe, the Middle East andAfrica. Increasing card use also cuts internal costs by making T&E processes more efficient, he said.
More complete data provides more opportunities to:
• analyze and improve traveler compliance,
• create a more robust data set for more effective vendor negotiations,
• automate data capture,
• reduce costs associated with erroneous and incomplete data entered by travelers, and
• lower costs from decreased fraud, misuse, and out-of-policy spending.
The higher the corporate card use, the easier it is to run reports on non-card spending and identify individual travelers who aren’t using the card.
Contact Geof or Deb for more reasons to get a corporate card if you don’t have one.
Ron Yoder Saves Clients $8,000!
“Over the years our organization has sent hundreds of people all over the world, often to remote destinations where travel is not an easy task. To ease the burden of caring for these details on our own we have utilized the services of Menno Travel, specifically working with Ron Yoder. We have always felt taken care of but recently Ron’s service went above and beyond. This fall we are sending several groups to far off destinations in Africa where tickets run close to $3,000 a person. After tickets had been purchased, Ron came across new lower prices that saved our travelers $500 a ticket. We are grateful for Ron’s attention to detail and desire to serve our organization even after the sale! As a result we are able to free up these funds to advance leadership development and medical care in African countries rather than simply paying for travel. Thanks, Ron!”
Displaying Itineraries for Flights Using Multiple Carriers
If a trip contains multiple airlines, each airline won’t necessarily have the entire itinerary listed on their website. The first airline in an itinerary may show only part of the second airline’s itinerary, for example. Even if all carriers’ flights are listed, the first carrier may not receive updates if there are changes to “down-stream” carriers.
For example, a client recently contacted us because Delta’s website still showed a Korean Air flight that we had canceled, but Korean Air didn’t send the information through to Delta. The client was concerned when they saw the Korean Air flight still listed on Delta.com.
This can be a problem domestically too, especially with all the codesharing between airlines. If the flights were booked in our reservation system, you can see all flights in your itinerary at www.MyTripAndMore.com. Here you will also find links to the airlines’ online check-in pages.
Be sure to contact us if you have questions or concerns regarding your itinerary.
Delta Air Lines Boosting Flights Out of New York’s LaGuardia Airport
Delta is adding routes that target American Airlines and put it in a better position to compete against United. Delta says the additions make it the biggest airline between theNew Yorkarea and cities in theU.S.That should help increase Delta’s business travelers.
Delta is adding flights toMiamiand Dallas, both American Airlines hubs. It will also fly toHoustonandDenver, which are both United hubs, andCharlotte, which is a hub for US Airways.
It will be interesting to see how these increased flights out of LaGuardia will affect service on other Delta routes…
Delta’s New In-Flight Entertainment and Wi-fi
Delta Air Lines launched new in-flight entertainment options as part of its $2 billion investment in the flying experience. The additions include Delta Connect, an in-flight portal that will be available to all customers using Wi-Fi on Delta aircraft; wireless movies and television on demand on Boeing 757-300 aircraft. Delta Connect will offer an expanded range of free content such as more choices for entertainment and shopping as well as flight and destination information.
A List of Airlines with WiFi
Inflight Wifi is becoming increasingly important to business travelers, and three airlines have Wifi on their entire domestic fleet: AirTran Airways, Delta Air Lines and Virgin America. Five more have it on select aircraft; they are: AirCanada, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, United Airlines and US Airways.
The Delta App Now For All Four Major Smartphones
Whether you have the iPhone®, Android™, BlackBerry® or the Windows® Phone, you can take advantage of the following features of the Delta App:
- View the most updated flight status and gate information
- Check in and download your eBoarding pass
- Change your seat assignment
- Access the standby and upgrade lists
- Receive alerts on flight and gate changes
- Review your SkyMiles account information
- View airport information and weather updates
- Set a reminder of where you parked at the airport
What Does American’s Bankruptcy Mean?
Basically we will see no change from American Airlines’ bankruptcy, which was the only network carrier that had avoided bankruptcy. Airline bankruptcies are all about restructuring debt. It’s business as usual, including the AAdvantage loyalty program.
Alert: Travelers to Canada with Criminal Convictions May Be Denied Entrance
If you are traveling toCanada, be aware of an enforced law that may deny you entrance if you have ever been convicted of a criminal offense. The list of applicable convictions
include: 1) a minor offense (including shoplifting, theft, assault, possession of an illegal substance, etc.); 2) an “indictable” criminal offense (including assault with a deadly weapon, manslaughter; etc.), or 3) Driving While Impaired (DWI).
According to Canada’s website, it is possible to have some offenses cleared in advance of travel by submitting an application for a Minister’s Approval of Rehabilitation. For details, including a sample disclosure to provide customers, click here.
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
The Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) is a free service provided by the U.S. Government toU.S.citizens who are traveling to, or living in, a foreign country.
STEP allows you to enter information about your upcoming trip abroad so that the Department of State can better assist you in an emergency.
STEP also allows Americans residing abroad to get routine information from the nearest U.S.embassy or consulate. Click here for more information and to register.
Fort Wayne Airport Adds Flight
American Airlines added a third flight betweenFort Wayneand Dallas/Fort Worth. This will increase connections toMexicoand the southwest.
“Give The Gift Of Memories” Vacation Promotion – Book by December 30, 2011!!
Holidays are a great time for families to gather. Why not gather your schedules as well and plan to take a family trip next year? Take advantage of Exclusive Travel Specials from Menno Travel Service for your Anniversary Trip, Spring Break or Annual Family Vacation. When it comes to value and price, you won’t get more anywhere else.
All NEW Cruise or Tour bookings Made before December 30, 2011 are eligible to receive*:
Spend $2,000 and get a $100 gift certificate to use on a future trip
Spend $4,000 and get a $200 gift certificate to use on a future trip
Spend $6,000 and get a $300 gift certificate to use on a future trip
Spend $8,000 and get a $400 gift certificate to use on a future trip
Spend $10,000+ and get a $500 gift certificate to use on a future trip
*gift certificates issued with final trip payment
Contact our Vacation Department at 574-534-1521 / 800-635-0963 or dorothy@mennotrav.com to get started!
This Year, Give them Memories
