New York, NY (February 29, 2012) — New York-based Tzell Travel Group is proud to announce that one of its Manhattan-based agents has received top industry recognition for the 11th straight year. Jody Bear, of Bear and Bear Travel, a member of Tzell, has been recognized as one of Condé Nast Traveler magazine’s Top Travel Specialists for 2011. Bear was honored at a reception in Los Angeles earlier this month. Bear has more than 30-years of experience in the travel industry, specializing in luxury travel planning with a twist, for her high-end clients.

“Bear exemplifies what Tzell is all about, providing in-depth knowledge, experience, and individualized client service,” said Tzell CEO Barry Liben. “We are proud to have some of the most talented travel agents in the industry working with Tzell. Our first-class white-glove service and support is why Tzell, part of the larger Travel Leaders Group, is among the nation’s biggest and most successful travel management companies.”

Bear was a waitress, salesperson, copywriter, and teacher before navigating her way into the travel industry. Today, she and her husband, Steven, are two of Tzell’s most successful luxury travel professionals. Bear’s personal relationships with hotel managers and her extensive knowledge of venues worldwide help to place her in this exclusive category. Being named to the Top Travel Specialists list, Bear explained, is becoming more and more difficult.

“For me, being on the list is truly an honor because it validates what I do and, with so many agents at the top of their field, I am sometimes in awe that I am on the list. It provides me with the incentive to always give 200% no matter how big or small the trip is,” Bear said.

Bear’s clients experience destinations like few others because of the exceptional local guides she hires for them and due to the access her clients have to off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods only insiders know. Whether it’s a celebrity wedding or family reunion, Bear’s main goal is to make the traveler’s experience unique. Bear, like Tzell, takes pride in providing clients with exceptionally customized leisure and corporate travel services.

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About Tzell Travel Group:

With annual sales exceeding $1 billion in 2010, Tzell Travel Group – as part of Travel Leaders Group – is currently ranked first among the nation’s largest corporate travel management companies, according to Business Travel News. Tzell maintains its headquarters in New York City and has offices in 20 states.

In everything it does, Tzell Travel Group places the highest priority on both its corporate client and its agents.  For the individual traveler, Tzell addresses value, convenience, comfort and safety, with its customized quality traveler services.  For the corporation, Tzell offers a broad product line of cost containment, meeting services and comprehensive travel management programs.

Tzell focuses on the needs of its agents by providing the best work environment possible and the strongest leadership and support team.  These elements combined with excellent air/hotel leisure programs create the ‘safe haven’ which is a hallmark of the Tzell brand.

www.Tzell.com

New York, NY (July 19, 2012) — New York-based Tzell Travel Group is pleased to announce its upcoming Global Enrollment day to help further speed the customs process for its most frequent international travelers. On Friday, July 27, 2012, Tzell will host its clients and supplier partners at its headquarters to facilitate expedited customs security clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers. In direct cooperation and collaboration with the United States Customs and Border Protection Global Entry program, Tzell’s Global Enrollment program is intended for frequent international travelers – many of whom are Tzell’s corporate and leisure travel clients. Global Entry allows travelers to re-enter the U.S. by using automated kiosks at select airports instead of completing customs forms on the airplane and having to wait in line to go through customs upon their arrival.

Prior to their travel, clients have to enroll for the accelerated program by completing an extensive application, undergoing a background check, providing their passport information and then – once preliminarily approved – they would typically be required to visit a participating airport location to finish the enrollment process.  Through Tzell’s Global Enrollment, clients can avoid the stress of scheduling an appointment at an airport location to complete the enrollment process. Tzell will have customs officials on site with their computers and scanners, offering Tzell’s valued clients an organized, relaxed and efficient way to complete the enrollment process.

“We began our Global Enrollment program last year and it has been met with tremendous success and support – both from our agents and our clients,” said Tzell CEO Barry Liben. “Our agents can offer their clients this valuable added benefit as an extension of doing business with them, and our clients can rest assured that the customs portion of their next trip will be as hassle-free as possible.  It is this kind of high-touch, personalized service that our clients have come to expect from our Tzell agents and we are happy to deliver.”

Global Enrollment empowers Tzell’s agents, giving them the opportunity to distinguish themselves beyond providing their knowledge of a given destination, by providing another top-tier customer service offering to their clients. The July Global Enrollment date is one in a series planned throughout the year (the last event took place on April 24) and is provided by Tzell as a complimentary service to its clients at no additional cost. Certain government fees do apply as part of completing the enrollment process.

“Tzell made the process so easy for me. The forms were easy enough to understand, but when I had a question, there was someone available and willing to assist me at Tzell. I also loved how easy and quick the interview process was,” said Stacey Colonna, Director of Global Accounts, Travel Industry for The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company. “Tzell’s Global Enrollment takes the bureaucracy out of customs. For me, travel is a big part of my job and lifestyle. Having this added convenience makes traveling much more pleasurable.”

Agents interested in joining Tzell – and providing the highest quality, most personalized and proactive customer service available should visit Tzell.com.

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About Tzell Travel Group:

With annual sales exceeding $1.2 billion in 2011, Tzell Travel Group – as part of Travel Leaders Group – is currently ranked first among the nation’s largest corporate travel management companies, according to Business Travel News. Tzell maintains its headquarters in New York City and has offices in 20 states.

In everything it does, Tzell Travel Group places the highest priority on both its corporate client and its agents.  For the individual traveler, Tzell addresses value, convenience, comfort and safety, with its customized quality traveler services.  For the corporation, Tzell offers a broad product line of cost containment, meeting services and comprehensive travel management programs.

Tzell focuses on the needs of its agents by providing the best work environment possible and the strongest leadership and support team.  These elements combined with excellent air/hotel leisure programs create the ‘safe haven’ which is a hallmark of the Tzell brand.

www.Tzell.com

Travel Leaders Group CEO Congratulates Company Employees on Their Impressive Honors

Plymouth, MN (September 5, 2012) — Today, Travel Leaders Group CEO Barry Liben congratulated employees throughout the company for collectively winning 29 Travel Weekly Magellan Awards – more than three times the total number of honors earned by any other travel agency company in 2012.

In his message to Travel Leaders Group employees, Liben stated, “Today, I have some very exciting news that thoroughly demonstrates just how much you’ve taken to heart Travel Leaders Group’s mission ‘to become the undisputed leader in travel.’ Travel Leaders Group has learned that we’ve collectively been honored with 29 Travel Weekly Magellan Awards! This year, we’ve earned a breathtaking 16 Gold and 13 Silver Magellan Awards. Congratulations to everyone involved.”

In the 2012 Travel Weekly Magellan Awards, Travel Leaders Group collectively was honored with nearly 100% more awards over last year, when Travel Leaders Group’s business earned 15 Magellan Awards – 6 Golds and 9 Silvers. Travel Leaders Group was honored with more Gold Awards in 2012 than its total number of Gold and Silver in 2011. “Contrast this with  only two years ago, when we collectively won 9 total awards, and it’s clear that we are living up to our name as Travel Leaders,” Liben stated.

From design to marketing to services, Travel Weekly‘s Magellan Awards honor the very best in travel and salute the outstanding travel professionals behind it all.

Here is Travel Leaders Group’s list of winners: 

Gold Magellan Awards:

• Cruise Holidays Cruise University Online – Training Program
• Cruise Holidays Compass Magazine – Marketing Direct Mail
• Cruise Holidays Cruise Line of the Month – Marketing Advertising/Marketing Campaign
• Nexion Strategic Sales Coaching – Training Program
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group TravelFlash E-Scapes – Client Newsletter Web or Print
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group Media Interview Training (MIT) – Training Program
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group Agency Consulting Evaluation (ACE) – Training Program
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group Travelleaders.com – Marketing Website
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group Destination Microsites – Marketing Web Marketing
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group Australia Campaign – Marketing Advertising/Marketing Campaign
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group Cybercrime Insurance – Travel Insurance
• Tzell Travel Group Innovate to Motivate – Travel Agent Innovation
• Vacation.com Think Big Conference Site – Marketing Website
• Vacation.com 2012 Bucket List Brochure – Marketing Direct Mail
• Vacation.com We Deliver Video – Marketing Promotional Video
• Vacation.com GoSiteSee Mobile App – Travel Agent      Innovation

Silver Magellan Awards:

• Cruise Holidays CruiseHolidays.com Website – Marketing Website
• Cruise Holidays Virtual Cruise Nights – Marketing Web Marketing/Advertising
• Nexion Simple Nexion Air Program (SNAP!) – Travel Agent Innovation
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group Local Aussie Marketing TV Commercial – Marketing TV Commercial
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group Luxury Hotels & Resorts Collection – Marketing Direct Mail
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group “I Am Travel Leaders” Video – Marketing Promotional Video
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group InteGREAT Marketing Platform – Travel Agent Innovation
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group Travel Policy Assessment – Travel Agent Innovation
• Travel Leaders Leisure Group CruiseDeals.com – Marketing Website
• Travel Leaders Leisure Group CruiseSpecialists.com – Marketing Website
• Travel Leaders Leisure Group CruiseSource Blog – Online Travel Services Blog
• Tzell Travel Group Tzell Annual Charity Drive – Community Outreach
• Vacation.com In-Sites Microsites – Travel Agent Innovation

Travel Weekly Magellan Awards’ panel of distinguished judges included Bob Dickinson (former President and CEO of Carnival Cruise Lines), Peter Greenberg (Travel Editor, “The Early Show” on CBS), Patricia Schultz (Author, “1000 Places to See Before You Die”), John Discala (Johnny Jet Travel Blog), Rudy Maxa (PBS Host of “Rudy Maxa’s World”), Lalia Rach (Professor and Founding Dean, NYU Tisch Center for Hospitality, Tourism and Sports Management) and Burt Wolf (Internationally syndicated television journalist).

“Make no mistake, achieving major accolades for our innovations in programs, initiatives and services doesn’t just happen. An amazing amount of work went into each of them and I salute our leadership and their respective teams for doing some heavy lifting to get them right,” Liben explained. “Likewise, incredible efforts were devoted to ensuring that each entry adequately reflected its award-winning inspiration. While the sheer number of wins might have you thinking that every entry wins, nothing could be further from the truth, considering that several of our nominations weren’t recognized. But that makes all 29 honors we’ve received all the more impressive and cements our leadership position in the industry.”

Liben concluded by reiterating his appreciation to Travel Leaders Group’s employees, saying, “I’m extraordinarily proud to express my gratitude to everyone who contributed to our stellar, award-winning achievements. Congratulations and thank you for making Travel Leaders the undisputed leader in travel.”

# # #

Travel Leaders Group (www.travelleadersgroup.com) is transforming travel with a commitment to our vacation and business travel clients via our progressive approach toward each unique travel experience. Having already assisted millions of travelers – through our beginnings as Carlson Leisure Group, a division of Carlson Companies, TraveLeaders and Tzell Travel Group and through the additions of Nexion and Vacation.com – Travel Leaders Group manages leisure, business and franchise travel operations under a variety of diversified divisions and brands. With sales of nearly $17 billion in 2011, Travel Leaders Group not only ranks as the #1 corporate travel management company by Business Travel News, but it is also among the top ten travel companies on the 2012 Travel Weekly Power List. In 2012, Entrepreneur ranked a Travel Leaders Franchise Brand #1 in the category of “Travel Agencies-Miscellaneous.”

Four Seasons’ Agent Incentive Program Recognizes Stellar Sales Achievement  

New York, NY (September 21, 2012) — In its recently-concluded Preferred Partner Agent Rewards 2012 incentive, Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts honored three Tzell Travel Group travel agents for outstanding sales achievement, it was announced today. Tzell agents Louis Escano, Cathy Casey and Rick Lozano were among a select number of highly distinguished travel agents nationally who have been recognized for their stellar sales with Four Seasons and will be provided with all-expenses paid trips to Four Seasons Resorts.  The incentive from June 1 through August 31 was for new bookings at either the Four Seasons Jackson Hole or Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica.

“We are thrilled to announce that three of Tzell’s amazing agents won our Preferred Partner Agent Incentive Trip Reward,” noted Kristy Poirier, Account Director of Travel Industry Sales for Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts. “We launched this reward incentive June 1, and we encouraged Preferred Partner Agents to sell either Jackson Hole or Costa Rica and enter a chance to be rewarded with a trip to whichever property they supported the most. We are pleased to congratulate Louis Escano, who won for Four Seasons Jackson Hole, and Cathy Casey and Rick Lozano, who each won for Four Seasons Resort Costa Rica. We look forward to welcoming them to our properties, where they’ll have the opportunity to experience them firsthand.”

Each honored agent is being invited to bring a guest, with airfare being provided to the agent, along with three nights at the respective resort, resort activities, spa treatment and breakfasts, lunches and dinners, as well as much, much more.

“Having enjoyed a mutually beneficial relationship with Four Seasons for many, many years, Tzell Travel Group is particularly pleased that this indispensible partner always takes time to recognize agents like Louis, Cathy and Rick for their continued enthusiasm and support,” stated Barry Liben, President of Tzell Travel Group. “By actively engaging and rewarding agents through this incentive, Four Seasons is ensuring that they return from their trips with more knowledge and understanding to book their most valued clients with an even greater level of confidence. It’s a win for everyone: Four Seasons, our agents and our clients.”

Four Seasons Preferred Partner Agent Rewards Trip 2012 is rewarding the top 20 agents for each resort based on room nights booked, with agents receiving double credits for suite bookings. The incentive parameters included booking dates of June 1-August 31, 2012, for travel through December 31, 2012 (participating agents had from June 1 to August 31 to book as much as they could to either property with a check-in date by December 31).

“It is a tremendous honor to be recognized with the Four Seasons Preferred Partner Agent Rewards Trip. It’s a thrill selling Four Seasons resorts and a pleasure sharing my knowledge and insights with my clients in building their dream vacations,” said honoree Cathy Casey. “I always like to experience the Four Seasons properties myself in order that I have firsthand experience with the resort and the destination.”

Honoree Rick Lozano added, “It’s an honor to be recognized by such a prestigious company as Four Seasons. Whenever I need something, they go above and beyond for me and my clients. They’re one of the premier hotel companies in the world. In all honesty, I am truly humbled by the generosity of Four Seasons and I am very fortunate to have such a wonderful client base – I owe much of that to the management at Tzell.”

Louis Escano said, “There is nothing like the Four Season hotels. They have the most amazing Director of Sales, accommodations and locations. Four Seasons hotels sell themselves and thus, we at Tzell are winners all around.”

Agents interested in joining Tzell – and providing the highest quality, most personalized and proactive customer service available should visit Tzell.com.

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About Tzell Travel Group:

With annual sales exceeding $1.2 billion in 2011, Tzell Travel Group – as part of Travel Leaders Group – is currently ranked first among the nation’s largest corporate travel management companies, according to Business Travel News. Tzell maintains its headquarters in New York City and has offices in 20 states.

In everything it does, Tzell Travel Group places the highest priority on both its clients and its agents.  For the individual traveler, Tzell addresses value, convenience, comfort and safety, with its customized quality traveler services.  For the corporation, Tzell offers a broad product line of cost containment, meeting services and comprehensive travel management programs.

Tzell focuses on the needs of its agents by providing the best work environment possible and the strongest leadership and support team.  These elements combined with excellent air/hotel leisure programs create the ‘safe haven’ which is a hallmark of the Tzell brand.

www.Tzell.com

Over 140 Gathered at The New York Palace Hotel to Celebrate 

New York, NY (October 23, 2012) — The New York Palace hotel in Midtown Manhattan was the backdrop for a spectacular Tzell Travel Group event on October 12, 2012.  A gala dinner was held to recognize and celebrate the organization’s independent agents and headquarters staff. The 15th annual anniversary dinner honored those individuals celebrating five, ten, fifteen, twenty, and twenty-five year anniversaries – in fact, over 72% of Tzell agents and employees have been with the company for five or more years. Over 45 people celebrated these milestone anniversaries in 2012. In addition, this year Tzell celebrated the 35^th anniversary of Tzell Travel Group CEO Barry Liben’s leadership and the 20^th anniversary of the Tzell West branch office in Los Angeles.

“Tzell’s annual anniversary dinner is a highlight of the year for me. To have the opportunity to spend time with each of these dedicated agents and staff all at once is truly fun,” stated Liben. “The fact that so many of our agents are even eligible for the recognition is a testament to the experience, knowledge, and value they bring to our company – and to the extremely low turnover rate we have at Tzell. It exemplifies the extent to which our agents and staff enjoy our unique high-touch culture and being part of Tzell.”

Year after year, attendees look forward to the part of the evening when Liben shares a few carefully chosen personal and sometimes comical or heartfelt words about each individual while on stage. In addition, each award recipient receives a special gift. In all, over 140 people were in attendance and honored for providing the world class, white-glove type of service that Tzell and its agents excel in bringing their high-end clients – setting Tzell apart from its competitors. By honoring the management team and support staff, as well as agents, Liben ensures that everyone knows that their role is important and appreciated.

“It is extremely gratifying to have been with one company for 25 years and watch it grow and become a leader in the travel industry,” said honoree Rina Anoussi – an independent commissioned agent with Tzell. “I feel a great sense of pride being part of the Tzell family. The entrepreneurial spirit and the amazing personality of Barry Liben and many of Tzell’s leadership team have made it a fantastic place to work. It has been an extremely rewarding 25 years working in professional partnership and collaboration with Tzell. It’s thanks to Tzell and its technology, tools, and people, that I’ve been able to succeed and thrive in business.”

Agents interested in joining Tzell – and providing the highest quality, most personalized and proactive customer service available should visit Tzell.com.

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About Tzell Travel Group:

With annual sales exceeding $1.2 billion in 2011, Tzell Travel Group – as part of Travel Leaders Group – is currently ranked first among the nation’s largest corporate travel management companies, according to Business Travel News. Tzell maintains its headquarters in New York City and has offices in 20 states.

In everything it does, Tzell Travel Group places the highest priority on both its clients and its agents.  For the individual traveler, Tzell addresses value, convenience, comfort and safety, with its customized quality traveler services.  For the corporation, Tzell offers a broad product line of cost containment, meeting services and comprehensive travel management programs.

Tzell focuses on the needs of its agents by providing the best work environment possible and the strongest leadership and support team.  These elements combined with excellent air/hotel leisure programs create the ‘safe haven’ which is a hallmark of the Tzell brand.

www.Tzell.com

New York, NY (November 20, 2012) — Tzell Travel Group has been recognized for the third straight year as the overall highest travel agency revenue producer by The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C. Tzell was honored last month during a ceremony at The Ritz-Carlton New York, Battery Park. The global hospitality brand honored Tzell as part of the 10^th anniversary of its “STARS” program – one of the first travel agency recognition programs. Fewer than 50 independently owned travel agencies participate in the exclusive STARS program.

“Both Tzell and The Ritz Carlton Hotel Company exemplify leadership in the luxury segment of our industry and it is truly an honor to be recognized by one of the industry’s foremost luxury brands,” said Tzell CEO Barry Liben. “We have been longtime supporters – as evident by our status as a charter member of STARS – and we look forward to continuing our strong partnership for years to come.”

Tzell prides itself in providing clients in-depth knowledge, experience, and individualized client service with some of the most talented travel agents in the industry. Tzell’s first-class white-glove service and support is why Tzell, part of the larger Travel Leaders Group, is among the nation’s biggest and most successful travel management companies. Bringing its high-end clients top-tier service is only possible by affiliating with such industry-leading brands.

Agents interested in joining Tzell – and providing the highest quality, most personalized and proactive customer service available should visit Tzell.com.

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About Tzell Travel Group:

With annual sales exceeding $1.2 billion in 2011, Tzell Travel Group – as part of Travel Leaders Group – is currently ranked first among the nation’s largest corporate travel management companies, according to Business Travel News. Tzell maintains its headquarters in New York City and has offices in 20 states.

In everything it does, Tzell Travel Group places the highest priority on both its clients and its agents.  For the individual traveler, Tzell addresses value, convenience, comfort and safety, with its customized quality traveler services.  For the corporation, Tzell offers a broad product line of cost containment, meeting services and comprehensive travel management programs.

Tzell focuses on the needs of its agents by providing the best work environment possible and the strongest leadership and support team.  These elements combined with excellent air/hotel leisure programs create the ‘safe haven’ which is a hallmark of the Tzell brand.

www.Tzell.com

Newly-combined New York City-headquartered travel agency powerhouses represents over $2.35 billion in annual sales volume

New York, NY (December 10, 2012) – Today, New York City’s two premier travel companies are formally joining forces: Tzell Travel Group – a Travel Leaders Group company – has merged with Protravel International, Inc., in a deal that formally closed Friday and received government antitrust approval. The merged operations within Travel Leaders Group represent combined annual sales volume of over $2.35 billion. Travel Leaders Group CEO Barry Liben has indicated that Tzell and Protravel will continue operating “as is” with no plans to change the successful models both companies have created. Under the terms of the agreement, Protravel founder Priscilla Alexander will continue serving as its President.

Travel Leaders Group is headquartered in Minnesota and ranks among North America’s top five traditional travel agency enterprises, enjoying nearly $17 billion in annual sales volume in 2011 through its wholly-owned, franchised and member operations. As Travel Leaders Group’s leading wholly-owned agency, New York City-based Tzell Travel Group’s sales approached $1.5 billion last year. In turn, 2011 sales for Protravel exceeded $850 million. Full terms of the deal will not be disclosed since both companies are privately held.

“Through the years, we have encountered many travel companies, but few formidable competitors have ever captured our admiration and respect to the extent that Protravel International has. I know I speak on behalf of everyone within our company when I say that we couldn’t be more thrilled to now join forces with such an exceptionally well-operated company,” stated Liben. “Protravel represents a crown jewel not only within the New York travel arena, but also throughout the United States and even internationally as they have established themselves as one of the industry’s top travel companies. We not only share very similar philosophies on the way we conduct business through a strong code of ethics, but like us, their success has been achieved by providing phenomenal service and expertise. Our companies complement each other exceedingly well.” 

“Throughout our history dating back to 1984, we’ve been guided by a quest to be leaders in innovation and talent. Now, we’re excited to take our experience to the next level by combining forces throughout the United States with New York City’s other great travel agency leader: Tzell Travel Group. Together we now have 72 branches that extend to most major markets across the country and in the United Kingdom,” noted Alexander. “We are proud to now be associated with Travel Leaders Group. Their commitment to excellence provides peace of mind to our discerning clients and agents that we’ll continue providing extraordinary care far beyond their expectations.”

# # #

Travel Leaders Group is transforming travel with a commitment to our vacation and business travel clients via our progressive approach toward each unique travel experience. Having already assisted millions of travelers – through our beginnings as Carlson Leisure Group, a division of Carlson Companies, TraveLeaders and Tzell Travel Group and through the additions of Nexion, Vacation.com and Protravel International – Travel Leaders Group manages leisure, business and franchise travel operations under a variety of diversified divisions and brands. Travel Leaders Group not only ranks as the #1 corporate travel management company by Business Travel News, but it is also among the top ten travel companies on the 2012 Travel Weekly Power List. In 2012, Entrepreneur ranked a Travel Leaders brand #1 in the category of “Travel Agencies-Miscellaneous.”

www.travelleadersgroup.com 

About Tzell Travel Group:

With annual sales approaching $1.5 billion in 2011, Tzell Travel Group – as part of Travel Leaders Group – is currently ranked first among the nation’s largest corporate travel management companies, according to Business Travel News. Tzell maintains its headquarters in New York City and has offices in 20 states.

In everything it does, Tzell Travel Group places the highest priority on both its corporate client and its agents.  For the individual traveler, Tzell addresses value, convenience, comfort and safety, with its customized quality traveler services.  For the corporation, Tzell offers a broad product line of cost containment, meeting services and comprehensive travel management programs.

Tzell focuses on the needs of its agents by providing the best work environment possible and the strongest leadership and support team.  These elements combined with excellent air/hotel leisure programs create the ‘safe haven’ which is a hallmark of the Tzell brand.

www.Tzell.com

About Protravel International Inc.:

Founded in 1984, Protravel International Inc. is a full-service, dynamic travel company with an award-winning reputation. With annual sales reaching over $850 million, Protravel is headquartered in New York City and supports a network of 22 branch locations throughout the United States and London, plus a network of hosted agents in all corners of the U.S. Today, over 800 people make up the Protravel organization. Our expertise in destination, international faring and competitive products – coupled with our superior network of contacts in the airline, hotel, cruise and hospitality industry – makes Protravel one of the most powerful selling forces in the travel industry.

Protravel’s diversity of products, size of annual sales and nationally recognized stature permits them to leverage these strengths to bring the most competitive pricing and aggressive negotiations for our highly diverse client base. It is a company-wide commitment to search for the best possible travel options for our customers. Travel arrangements are personally tailored to take optimum advantage of the most up to the minute changes in the industry.

For many years, a dedicated team has guided Protravel with innovative ideas and skills. By incorporating the latest technologies and carefully monitoring industry developments, the finest products and highest levels of service are maintained. The continued success of Protravel is a testament to our sound operation and well-planned development.

www.protravelinc.com

Foundation Created to Advance Tzell’s Charitable Work 

New York, NY (December 14, 2012) — Today, Tzell Travel Group is pleased to announce it has created the Tzell Travel Group Foundation. The newly formed 501 (c) (3) charitable foundation will allow Tzell agents and employees to raise money for various individual charities in any given year. Over the past 10 years, Tzell has donated over one-half million dollars to 11 different charities. In 2013, the foundation will take Tzell’s charitable giving a step further – allowing multiple charities to benefit each year.

The Tzell Travel Group Foundation will initially be funded by Tzell, Tzell Travel Group CEO Barry Liben, along with contributions from Travel Leaders Group Co-Chairmen Mike Batt and Greg O’Hara. Donations are tax-deductible and the foundation has immediately started raising money for those who were directly impacted by Hurricane Sandy and the subsequent nor’easter, which devastated many areas along the East Coast.

“We care deeply about those impacted by Hurricane Sandy, and that concern was further crystalized by the harrowing experiences so many of our own family of staff, agents and travel industry partners personally endured. It became clear that we needed to do something extraordinary for greater relief efforts and beyond,” said Liben. “Previously, a single charity was chosen each year. With the formation of the Tzell Travel Group Foundation, we will be able to extend our helping hand to multiple groups within our community every year.  As part of Tzell’s ongoing commitment to being a leader in high-end luxury travel, we must never forget those who have fallen upon misfortune and rededicate ourselves to serving the greater good.”

In the past, Tzell has donated to organizations such as: Toys for Tots, Habitat for Humanity, Camp Sunshine, Fisher House Foundation, Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital. Going forward, The Tzell Travel Group Foundation’s board of directors will determine which charitable organizations will be chosen as future recipients of foundation funds. Those interested in contributing may donate via www.tzellfoundation.com.

Agents interested in joining Tzell – and providing the highest quality, most personalized and proactive customer service available should visit Tzell.com.

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About Tzell Travel Group:

With annual sales exceeding $1.5 billion, Tzell Travel Group – as part of Travel Leaders Group – is currently ranked first among the nation’s largest corporate travel management companies, according to Business Travel News. Tzell maintains its headquarters in New York City and has offices in 20 states.

In everything it does, Tzell Travel Group places the highest priority on both its clients and its agents.  For the individual traveler, Tzell addresses value, convenience, comfort and safety, with its customized quality traveler services.  For the corporation, Tzell offers a broad product line of cost containment, meeting services and comprehensive travel management programs.

Tzell focuses on the needs of its agents by providing the best work environment possible and the strongest leadership and support team.  These elements combined with excellent air/hotel leisure programs create the ‘safe haven’ which is a hallmark of the Tzell brand.

www.Tzell.com

New York, NY (April 30, 2013) — Tzell Travel Group hosted its branch leadership and renowned industry leaders for its Annual Branch Meeting on April 19, 2013, at the luxurious, new Conrad New York hotel in lower Manhattan. Prior to the meeting, the Tzell team was feted at an April 18 welcome cocktail reception at the NASDAQ MarketSite in Times Square. Every year, Tzell brings each of its 50-plus branch presidents and respective teams to New York for the opportunity to network with other branches, gain industry insights from the crème de la crème of luxury suppliers, and learn about the latest initiatives Tzell is rolling out system-wide.

“Year after year, Tzell’s Branch Meeting has been an enormous success and this year was no exception. Our branch leadership looks forward to this annual opportunity to hear our insights, discuss industry initiatives, learn about our suppliers’ latest luxury offerings and enhancements, and connect face-to-face,” said Tzell CEO Barry Liben. “Our prestigious branch agencies embody some of the industry’s most successful luxury corporate and leisure agencies in the industry so it’s important that we offer them a forum to share ideas and tap into the latest intelligence from our industry partners.”

Among the renowned industry speakers presenting during the 2013 meeting were: Isadore Sharp, Founder & Chairman, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts; Steve Sear, Senior Vice President, Global Sales, Delta Air Lines, Vicki Freed, Senior Vice President, Royal Caribbean International; Dondra Ritzenthaler, Senior Vice President, Sales, Celebrity Cruises; Edie Bornstein, Senior Vice President, Sales and Marketing, Azamara Club Cruises; Bill Walshe, Chief Executive Officer, Viceroy Hotels & Resorts and Ron Cerko, Vice President, Enterprise Holdings.  In addition to the industry speakers, the branch leadership heard from Barry Liben and various members of Tzell’s headquarters team regarding the state of its airline partnerships, luxury hotel product offerings, the importance of attracting new talent to Tzell, and best practices for Tzell’s legal and accounting procedures.

“I can’t imagine not attending Tzell’s Branch Meeting. I’ve been attending the meetings for the past several years and it continues to serve as a solid reminder of how lucky I am to work for this company,” said Kathryn Anschutz, Managing Director for Tzell New England, one of 3 Boston-area branches. “With Tzell, we have the best of both worlds – we are given the freedom to operate our businesses locally as we see fit, and yet we are also given the tools that are unparalleled in the industry, and most of all, we get unwavering support when we need it.”

At the conclusion of the full-day meeting, the Conrad New York offered a site inspection of its new five-star venue to all Tzell participants. Tzell concluded the tour high atop the property’s rooftop bar, featuring a spectacular view of the Statue of Liberty.

Agents interested in joining Tzell – and providing the highest quality, most personalized and proactive customer service available should visit Tzell.com.

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About Tzell Travel Group:

With annual sales approaching $1.6 billion, Tzell Travel Group – as part of Travel Leaders Group – is currently ranked first among the nation’s largest corporate travel management companies, according to Business Travel News. Tzell maintains its headquarters in New York City and has offices in 20 states.

In everything it does, Tzell Travel Group places the highest priority on both its clients and its agents.  For the individual traveler, Tzell addresses value, convenience, comfort and safety, with its customized quality traveler services.  For the corporation, Tzell offers a broad product line of cost containment, meeting services and comprehensive travel management programs.

Tzell focuses on the needs of its agents by providing the best work environment possible and the strongest leadership and support team.  These elements combined with excellent air/hotel leisure programs create the ‘safe haven’ which is a hallmark of the Tzell brand.

www.Tzell.com

New York, NY (June 7, 2013) — IsramWorld, one of America’s largest tour operators, hosted a private familiarization (FAM) tour in Israel for a very select number of Tzell Travel Group agents from May 20-26, with air courtesy of Delta Air Lines aboard its 747-400 service between New York’s JFK and Tel Aviv’s Ben Gurion International. The VIP delegation of agents led by Tzell CEO Barry Liben was treated to what has been described as a “truly life transformational” opportunity to experience Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, along with a journey through Genesis Land to Masada, the Jordan River, the Dead Sea and Sea of Galilee, among other major stops throughout the excursion. IsramWorld and Tzell Travel have partnered in sending discerning clients to Israel for over 30 years.

“While I’ve been fortunate to visit Israel almost every year for the past forty-plus years, I wanted to make sure that some of our top Tzell agents were able to experience the destination themselves and see firsthand why I love going there year-in and year-out. So who better to call on than the exceptional people of IsramWorld, who know Israel even better than I do,” explained Liben. “The very unique relationship we’ve forged with IsramWorld has enabled both of our companies to grow far beyond our wildest expectations. We’ve succeeded together because we’re delivering some of the world’s most extraordinary experiences our clients have ever had the opportunity to enjoy. We’re proud to have sent thousands of them to Israel and look forward to sending thousands more.”

“Tzell Travel and IsramWorld have not only been working closely for decades, but we have a very special relationship that has grown and grown over the years, and I’m glad to say that today we handle a large part of the VIPs traveling with Tzell and their agents,” noted Ilana Apelboim, Senior Vice President of Operations & Chief Operations Officer Worldwide for IsramWorld. “It was great to show these key travel professionals Israel and the Holy Land, and we made sure to combine just the right amount of kid-friendly activities – which the adults enjoyed just as much – with the major highlights of the country. They rode in jeeps through the Golan Heights, had a camel ride in the desert, kayaked in the Jordan River, and floated in the Dead Sea.  They scurried through the markets of Jerusalem and through the Old City learning all about the wonders of Israel through our fantastic guide, Ofer. It was all very special, and I’m pleased that we helped create great memories.”

Participating Tzell agents recounted many emotion-filled moments from the trip, including laying a wreath at the “Wall of Names” honoring the 4,875 fallen Israeli soldiers of the Armored Corps at Latrun; visiting the Yad Vashem Memorial to the Holocaust; and hearing of the tragic story of the Zealots while high atop Masada.

“This incredible IsramWorld FAM was truly life-changing for our people, and will only further enrich their clients’ experiences when they visit Israel,” Liben stated. “We also sincerely appreciated the excellent service we received in getting to Israel aboard Delta’s wonderful 747-400 aircraft. To be able to be among the very first to enjoy Delta’s gleaming, new facilities at JFK’s Terminal Four provided our entire group an incredible welcome home upon our return. We are proud to count both IsramWorld and Delta Air Lines among our most valued partners.”

Agents interested in joining Tzell – and providing the highest quality, most personalized and proactive customer service available should visit Tzell.com.

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About Tzell Travel Group:

With annual sales approaching $1.6 billion, Tzell Travel Group – as part of Travel Leaders Group – is currently ranked first among the nation’s largest corporate travel management companies, according to Business Travel News. Tzell maintains its headquarters in New York City and has offices in 20 states.

In everything it does, Tzell Travel Group places the highest priority on both its clients and its agents.  For the individual traveler, Tzell addresses value, convenience, comfort and safety, with its customized quality traveler services.  For the corporation, Tzell offers a broad product line of cost containment, meeting services and comprehensive travel management programs.

Tzell focuses on the needs of its agents by providing the best work environment possible and the strongest leadership and support team.  These elements combined with excellent air/hotel leisure programs create the ‘safe haven’ which is a hallmark of the Tzell brand.

www.Tzell.com

Travel Agent Magazine Recognizes Industry Veteran Erika Reategui for Her Dedication to Dream Destination Travel Planning

New York, NY (July 16, 2013) – Travel Agent magazine has named Erika Reategui, President of First in Service Travel, one of America’s top 25 agents of 2013 in a special July issue. Reategui, who has helmed the boutique luxury travel agency with brother Fernando Gonzalez since 1991, is being honored for her years in the high end leisure and corporate travel business. First in Service Travel is a branch of Tzell Travel Group, renowned as one of New York’s premier travel agencies.

Travel Agent magazine took particular note of Reategui for her expertise and specializations in exotic honeymoons and once in a lifetime dream destinations. She has traveled to all seven continents and has visited 83 countries, prompting her clients to describe her as a “cross between Trip Advisor and Wikipedia.”

“We’re enormously proud to have one of the industry’s most accomplished travel agents as part of the Tzell family,” Tzell CEO Barry Liben stated. “First in Service Travel initially became a Tzell branch just eight years ago, and during that time under Erika and Fernando’s leadership, they’ve consistently demonstrated growth thanks their creativity, intelligence and unyielding effort to surpass client expectations. Erika exudes everything you’d expect in one of the industry’s premier travel agents – warmth, passion and unwavering dedication in delivering exceptional experiences. That’s what has earned her fans and loyal clients the world over, so it’s no wonder she was honored as one of our industry best.”

“It’s a huge honor to be recognized by this industry-leading national publication for doing a job that I love and was really born to do. Travel is so personal. I get so much satisfaction in knowing that I impacted someone’s travel experiences because they invariably translate into memories of a lifetime,” said Reategui.

The honors coincided with First in Service Travel’s expansion of its New York headquarters to manage its newly launched leisure division.

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ABOUT FIRST IN SERVICE TRAVEL:

New York City-based First in Service (F1S) is a leading design house of travel management. F1S has an elite clientele in fashion, media, technology and entertainment. Sister and brother team Erika Reategui and Fernando Gonzalez founded First in Service in 1991 from a family work ethic: service first. Since then, the company has built a five-star team of specialists in New York, Los Angeles, London and Bogota. The company includes dedicated corporate, leisure, entertainment and events divisions. First in Service is a branch of Tzell Travel Group. For more information, please visit www.firstinservice.com. Follow First in Service on Twitter at @1stinService or visit on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/FirstInServiceTravel.

ABOUT TZELL TRAVEL GROUP:

With annual sales approaching $1.6 billion, Tzell Travel Group – as part of Travel Leaders Group – is currently ranked first among the nation’s largest corporate travel management companies, according to Business Travel News. Tzell maintains its headquarters in New York City and has offices in 20 states. In everything it does, Tzell Travel Group places the highest priority on both its clients and its agents.  For the individual traveler, Tzell addresses value, convenience, comfort and safety, with its customized quality traveler services.  For the corporation, Tzell offers a broad product line of cost containment, meeting services and comprehensive travel management programs. Tzell focuses on the needs of its agents by providing the best work environment possible and the strongest leadership and support team.  These elements combined with excellent air/hotel leisure programs create the ‘safe haven’ which is a hallmark of the Tzell brand. www.Tzell.com

During the week of July 15, 2013, the online version of Woman’s Day magazine posted an inflammatory article, titled “10 Things Travel Agents Won’t Tell You,” that questioned the professionalism and credibility of travel agents.

Travel Leaders Group was the first to respond, and we responded in force.

The editor-in-chief of Woman’s Day quickly received letters from top officials at several Travel Leaders Group companies, including:

• Travel Leaders Group CEO Barry Liben
• Vacation.com/Travel Leaders Leisure Group President John Lovell, CTC
• Nexion President Jackie Friedman, CTC, CTIE
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group President Roger E. Block, CTC

In addition to the open letters above, we want to reassure all travelers that the travel agent professionals under the Travel Leaders Group umbrella always have your back from the moment you begin planning your travel to the moment you return home safely. We’re there throughout your travels, even when the unexpected happens, whether it’s something as simple as a canceled flight or something major like the weather. We’re always looking out for your best interests.

News coverage regarding the Woman’s Day story—and the retraction Woman’s Day made in response to our efforts—may be found here.

Tzell’s Jody Bear Recognized by Condé Nast Traveler for 13^th Consecutive Year 

New York, NY (August 28, 2013) — Condé Nast Traveler has honored three of the leading travel counselors from New York City-based Tzell Travel Group on its just-released annual list of the industry’s foremost travel professionals. For the 13^th year, the unparalleled expertise of Tzell’s Jody Bear has been singled out by the publication for her extensive knowledge in the specialization of “Destination Celebrations.” 

In Condé Nast Traveler’s 14^th annual Top Travel Specialists list, edited by Consumer News Director Wendy Perrin, the following travel agents affiliated with Tzell have merited inclusion on her list:

• Jody Bear for Destination Celebrations – Bear & Bear Travel/Tzell Travel (New York,  NY)
• Marion Harbison for Germany – Brownell Travel/Tzell Travel (Chattanooga, TN)
• Caroline Wood for American Southwest & Rocky Mountains – Brownell Travel/Tzell Travel (Bozeman, MT)           

“The recognition from Condé Nast Traveler serves as a testament to the professionalism and expert care each of our honorees personally provides their clients 24/7,” noted Tzell CEO Barry Liben. “Earning a place on Condé Nast Traveler’s list is coveted by the tens of thousands of travel agents throughout the United States and is an enormous and truly remarkable achievement.” 

In describing her Condé Nast Traveler list of “Top Travel Specialists,” Wendy Perrin writes:

The custom trip designers collected here represent the best blend of destination knowledge, insider connections, consumer advocacy, and value for your dollar that I’ve found in more than two decades of scrutinizing the travel industry for this magazine. They have the expertise and clout to get you the rooms with the best views and the savviest English-speaking guides, not to mention VIP perks. They have almost all been road-tested by Condé Nast Traveler readers, editors, or both. Of the more than 10,000 travel agents and tour operators who have tried to break onto this list since its inception 14 years ago, only a tiny fraction have made the grade—this year, 146 specialists. Getting into this group is, statistically speaking, tougher than getting into Harvard. Staying on it is tougher still: It requires not only an absence of valid reader complaints but also ongoing positive assessments. 

To receive the highest quality, most personalized and proactive customer service available in travel, please visit Tzell.com to learn more about our premier team of travel advisors.

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About Tzell Travel Group: 

With annual sales approaching $1.6 billion, Tzell Travel Group – as part of Travel Leaders Group – is currently ranked first among the nation’s largest corporate travel management companies, according to Business Travel News. Tzell maintains its headquarters in New York City and has offices in 20 states. 

In everything it does, Tzell Travel Group places the highest priority on both its clients and its agents.  For the individual traveler, Tzell addresses value, convenience, comfort and safety, with its customized quality traveler services.  For the corporation, Tzell offers a broad product line of cost containment, meeting services and comprehensive travel management programs. 

Tzell focuses on the needs of its agents by providing the best work environment possible and the strongest leadership and support team.  These elements combined with excellent air/hotel leisure programs create the ‘safe haven’ which is a hallmark of the Tzell brand.

www.Tzell.com

New York, NY (September 20, 2013) — Travel + Leisure – long revered as one of the most influential consumer travel magazines – has named eight of New York-based Tzell Travel Group’s top travel agents to its “2013 A-List of Top Travel Advisors.” The Travel + Leisure 2013 A-List of Top Travel Advisors, selected by Travel + Leisure editors, represents the best travel advisors in the business. 

Tzell is represented on the Travel + Leisure 2013 A-List of Top Travel Advisors by the following eight outstanding travel agents, who have received exclusive recommendations for their expertise on specific destinations and niche travel specialties, including:

• Carol Arklind for Scandinavia – Tzell Travel/Cadence Travel (La Jolla, CA)
• Jody Bear for Destination Celebrations – Tzell Travel/Bear & Bear Travel (New York, NY)
• Terry Coffey for Australia, New Zealand and the South Pacific – Tzell Travel (Rumson, NJ)
• Harlan DeBell and Kara Bebell for Weddings & Honeymoons – Tzell Travel/The Travel Siblings (New York, NY)
• Paul Largay for Family Travel – Tzell Travel/Largay Travel (Waterbury, CT)
• Ellen LeCompte for United Kingdom – Tzell Travel/Brownell Travel (Richmond, VA)
• Doris White for Adventure – Tzell Travel/Cadence Travel (La Jolla, CA)                                                     

“At Tzell, we make it our business to ensure our clients enjoy the peace-of-mind in knowing that they’re working with the best,” noted Tzell CEO Barry Liben. “While our goal is to earn our clients’ trust and appreciation from the exceptional service our agents routinely provide, it’s particularly gratifying for such a vaunted publication like Travel + Leisure – looking from the outside in – to lavish praise on our esteemed agents. We could not be more proud of these consummate travel professionals.” 

In its introduction of the 2013 A-List of 161 Top Travel Advisors, Travel + Leisure notes:

In the hands of an expert, a simple vacation can become a life-changing journey: an unforgettable adventure; a soul-restoring retreat; an education unmatched in any classroom. For our 12th annual look at the best advisers in the business, we asked these travel pros to share their latest discoveries and insider tips from around the world. Wherever your travels take you—from cruising in Antarctica to a walking safari in Zambia—we have the agent for you. 

To receive the highest quality, most personalized and proactive customer service available in travel, please visit Tzell.com to learn more about our premier team of travel advisors.

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About Tzell Travel Group: 

With annual sales approaching $1.6 billion, Tzell Travel Group – as part of Travel Leaders Group – is currently ranked first among the nation’s largest corporate travel management companies, according to Business Travel News. Tzell maintains its headquarters in New York City and has offices in 20 states. 

In everything it does, Tzell Travel Group places the highest priority on both its clients and its agents.  For the individual traveler, Tzell addresses value, convenience, comfort and safety, with its customized quality traveler services.  For the corporation, Tzell offers a broad product line of cost containment, meeting services and comprehensive travel management programs. 

Tzell focuses on the needs of its agents by providing the best work environment possible and the strongest leadership and support team.  These elements combined with excellent air/hotel leisure programs create the ‘safe haven’ which is a hallmark of the Tzell brand.

www.Tzell.com

Attendees Feted at the Newly Remodeled New York Palace Hotel 

New York, NY (October 14, 2013) — The exquisitely renovated New York Palace Hotel provided a beautiful backdrop for Tzell Travel Group’s 16^th annual anniversary gala, honoring a select group of the organization’s independent agents and headquarters staff. On October 11, 2013, over 150 attendees gathered to honor individuals celebrating five-, 10-, 15-, 20-, and 35-year anniversaries. A total of 71 recipients were honored at the elegant gala celebrating milestone anniversaries. In addition, Tzell New England celebrated its 15 year anniversary.

“Similar to how Tzell operates, I think the hard work of our commission agents and house staff needs to be recognized on a “first-class” level.  The unparalleled service they provide is why we have continued to be among the very best in the business and why so many of these individuals enjoy such longevity with Tzell,” stated Tzell Travel Group CEO Barry Liben. “It is truly an honor for me to recognize these outstanding individuals. I’m also pleased so many of our agents and staff could attend the gala and celebrate with us, as we highlight their significant contributions to the Tzell Travel Group.”

Befitting of the exemplary service Tzell agents provide to their clients, the iconic, prestigious and newly-“reinvented” New York Palace Hotel was selected, again, as the premier location for this a spectacular celebration.  The New York Palace underwent a thorough transformation from a historic Madison Avenue gem to Midtown’s premier modern hotel.

“I joined Tzell Travel Group back when there were still rotary telephones. In that time, I’ve been able to learn and grow in my career – Tzell and Barry taught me everything.  It’s been a privilege to see the organization develop and continue to uphold their position as the industry leader,” stated Ellen Klein, a Tzell 35-year anniversary recipient. “I’ve maintained my 35-year career with Tzell because I’m proud to be with such a reputable company that values my contribution. Most importantly, I’ve met wonderful people and made a lot of friends over the years at Tzell, including Barry. He’s amazing!”

Tzell prides itself in providing its clients with in-depth knowledge, experience and individualized client service with some of the most talented travel agents in the industry. Tzell’s first-class white-glove service and support is why Tzell, part of the larger Travel Leaders Group, is among the nation’s biggest and most successful travel management companies. Bringing its high-end clients top-tier service is only possible by affiliating with such industry-leading brands.

Agents interested in joining Tzell and providing the highest quality, most personalized and proactive customer service available should visit Tzell.com.

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About Tzell Travel Group:

With annual sales approaching $1.6 billion, Tzell Travel Group – as part of Travel Leaders Group – is currently ranked first among the nation’s largest corporate travel management companies, according to Business Travel News. Tzell maintains its headquarters in New York City and has offices in 20 states.

In everything it does, Tzell Travel Group places the highest priority on both its clients and its agents.  For the individual traveler, Tzell addresses value, convenience, comfort and safety, with its customized quality traveler services.  For the corporation, Tzell offers a broad product line of cost containment, meeting services and comprehensive travel management programs.

Tzell focuses on the needs of its agents by providing the best work environment possible and the strongest leadership and support team.  These elements combined with excellent air/hotel leisure programs create the ‘safe haven’ which is a hallmark of the Tzell brand.

www.Tzell.com

Travel Leaders Group CEO Barry Liben Acknowledges Major Achievements throughout Enterprise 

Plymouth, MN (October 21, 2013) — Seven of Travel Leaders Group’s travel agency brands collectively were honored today with an unprecedented 30 Travel Weekly Magellan Awards – more than twice the total number of honors earned by any other travel agency company in 2013. Travel Weekly formally announced all of the winners in its October 21 special issue. Travel Leaders’ flagship franchise brand alone earned a whopping 15 Magellan Awards. Travel Leaders Group CEO Barry Liben offered his congratulations to all employees who contributed to the award-winning brands’ achievements. 

In his congratulatory message to Travel Leaders Group employees, Liben stated, “Where does Travel Leaders Group particularly shine? Considering our industry leadership position, it should come as no surprise that we have been honored with five Magellan Awards (3 Gold and 2 Silver) for ‘Travel Agent Innovation.’ But we’re also exceptional at ‘Training Programs,” earning five more Magellan Awards (2 Gold and 3 Silver) in that category, along with a whopping 17 Magellan Awards (6 Gold and 11 Silver) for our enviable and unsurpassed strengths in ‘Marketing’ categories. But I’m also very proud that our commitment to ‘Community Involvement’ has been recognized twice (1 Gold and 1 Silver) as well.” 

Liben noted that in the 2013 Travel Weekly Magellan Awards, Travel Leaders Group collectively bested its own record-setting honors from 2012. “Travel Leaders Group is further cementing its place as the undisputed leader in travel by collecting 30 Magellan Awards,” Liben noted. “Innovations in what we deliver to our various travel agent constituencies are what set Travel Leaders Group companies apart from our competition. Our leadership starts with visionary strategic thinking that’s crystalized into innovations that further distinguish Travel Leaders Group and our various divisions from other travel agency companies.” 

From design to marketing to services, Travel Weekly‘s Magellan Awards honor the very best in travel and salute the outstanding travel professionals behind it all. 

Here is Travel Leaders Group’s list of winners: 

Gold Magellan Awards:

• Cruise Holidays – Facebook Sweepstakes – Training Program
• Nexion – Agent Essentials – Training Program
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group - Business Plan Training – Training Program
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group - Business.TravelLeaders.com – Marketing: Website
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group – Client Executive Forum – Travel Agent Innovation
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group - Live Chat Online – Travel Agent Innovation
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group - National Meeting Recap Video – Marketing: Promotional Video
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group - Tubman Charitable Event – Community Involvement Program
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group- We Get You TV Campaign – Marketing: TV Commercial
• Tzell - Trusted Traveler – Travel Agent Innovation
• Vacation.com - Agent Universe – Marketing: Website
• Vacation.com - Culinary Collection Brochure – Marketing: Direct Mail
• Vacation.com - Inner Circle Brochure – Marketing: Direct Mail 

Silver Magellan Awards:

• Cruise Holidays – Compass Magazine – Marketing: Direct Mail
• Cruise Holidays - Virtual Cruise Nights – Marketing: Web Marketing/Advertising
• Luxury Travel Network - University of Luxury – Training Program
• SinglesCruise.com - SinglesCruise.com Website – Online Travel Services: Website
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group - Agent Profiler – Marketing: Web Marketing/Advertising
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group - Luxury Mailing Campaigns – Marketing: Advertising/Marketing Campaign (up to 5 pieces)
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group - Luxury Working Lunches – Training Program
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group - Marketing Plan Training – Training Program
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group - Member Website Program – Marketing: Website
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group - Postcards Magazine – Marketing: Direct Mail
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group - Productivity Calculator – Travel Agent Innovation
• Travel Leaders Franchise Group - Social Media Campaign – Marketing: Advertising/Marketing Campaign (up to 5 pieces)
• Travel Leaders Group - Ultratravel Magazine – Marketing: Direct Mail
• Tzell - Tzell Foundation – Community Involvement Program
• Vacation.com - Bucket List Brochure – Marketing: Direct Mail
• Vacation.com - CruisePRO – Travel Agent Innovation
• Vacation.com - e-Engagement Retargeting – Marketing: Web Marketing/Advertising 

Travel Weekly Magellan Awards’ panel of distinguished judges included Bruce Beckham (former Executive Director/CEO of Tourism Cares), Peter Greenberg (Travel Editor, “The Early Show” on CBS), Patricia Schultz (Author, “1000 Places to See Before You Die”), John Discala (Johnny Jet Travel Blog), Marc Mancini (President of Marc Mancini Seminars and Consulting), Rudy Maxa (PBS Host of “Rudy Maxa’s World”), Lalia Rach (Professor and Founding Dean, NYU Tisch Center for Hospitality, Tourism and Sports Management) and Burt Wolf (Internationally syndicated television journalist). 

“I want to personally salute each of the individuals who not only help make these award submissions shine, but all the men and women who made each of our honored programs and initiatives what they are,” Liben stated in his message to Travel Leaders Group employees. “Without your hard work, time and effort, we would not be able to lay claim to any of these prestigious honors today. Thank you for your continued work toward our mission to remain the undisputed leader in travel. You’ve made us all very, very proud.” 

# # #

Travel Leaders Group (www.travelleadersgroup.com) is transforming travel with a commitment to our vacation and business travel clients via our progressive approach toward each unique travel experience. Having already assisted millions of travelers – through our beginnings as Carlson Leisure Group, a division of Carlson Companies, TraveLeaders and Tzell Travel Group and through the additions of Nexion, Vacation.com and Protravel International – Travel Leaders Group manages leisure, business and franchise travel operations under a variety of diversified divisions and brands. With sales of approximately $18 billion in 2012, Travel Leaders Group not only ranks as the #1 corporate travel management company by Business Travel News, but it is also among the top ten travel companies on the 2013 Travel Weekly Power List. In 2013, Entrepreneur ranked a Travel Leaders Franchise Brand #1 in the category of “Travel Agencies-Miscellaneous.”

Foundation to benefit AmeriCares, The Thirst Project and Make a Wish Foundation in 2014

New York, NY (December 20, 2013) — Today, the Tzell Travel Group Foundation is announcing it has officially kicked off its annual charity drive. Open now through February 1, 2014, the Tzell Foundation’s annual charity drive brings Tzell agents, employees and the community together in raising money for notable selected charities. Charities for 2014 were determined by the Foundation’s board of directors and include AmeriCares, The Thirst Project and Make a Wish Foundation.

“Tzell prides itself on not only being the leader in high-end luxury travel, but also being a leader within the community, serving the greater good. We are privileged to be in a position where Tzell can support charities and organizations that benefit from our giving year after year,” stated Tzell Travel Group CEO Barry Liben. “We rely on the generosity of our entire Tzell family and friends for support, as without them, we wouldn’t be able to help those in need.”

The Tzell Travel Group Foundation is a nonprofit foundation and all donations made are tax-deductible. Since 2001, Tzell Travel Group has raised nearly $700,000 for a variety of worthy charities.

About this year’s charity drive recipients: • Make a Wish Foundation – On average, every 38 minutes, this organization grants the wish of a child who has been diagnosed with a life-threatening medical condition.   • Thirst Project – Almost 1 billion people around the world are without access to safe, clean drinking water. Approximately every 15 seconds, one child dies from drinking contaminated water.   • AmeriCares – This non-profit disaster relief and humanitarian aid organization provides immediate response to emergency medical needs and supports long-term humanitarian assistance programs for people around the world. Since 1982, AmeriCares has delivered more than $11 billion in aid to help people in 164 countries.

In the past, Tzell has donated to organizations such as: Toys for Tots, Habitat for Humanity, Camp Sunshine, Fisher House Foundation, Lustgarten Foundation for Pancreatic Cancer Research, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital.

Those interested in contributing to the Tzell Travel Group Foundation annual charity drive may donate via www.tzellfoundation.com.

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About Tzell Travel Group:

With annual sales exceeding $1.5 billion, Tzell Travel Group – as part of Travel Leaders Group – is currently ranked first among the nation’s largest corporate travel management companies, according to Business Travel News. Tzell maintains its headquarters in New York City and has offices in 20 states.

In everything it does, Tzell Travel Group places the highest priority on both its clients and its agents.  For the individual traveler, Tzell addresses value, convenience, comfort and safety, with its customized quality traveler services.  For the corporation, Tzell offers a broad product line of cost containment, meeting services and comprehensive travel management programs.

Tzell focuses on the needs of its agents by providing the best work environment possible and the strongest leadership and support team.  These elements combined with excellent air/hotel leisure programs create the ‘safe haven’ which is a hallmark of the Tzell brand.

www.Tzell.com

New York, NY (January 24, 2014) — It was announced today that longtime Travel Leaders Group executive J. D. O’Hara has been named as President of Tzell Travel Group (www.tzell.com). With annual sales volume of approximately $2 billion largely from corporate, entertainment and luxury travel, Tzell is the largest wholly-owned travel agency unit of the $18 billion Travel Leaders Group. O’Hara will continue to report directly to Travel Leaders Group CEO Barry Liben in his new capacity. Liben continues in his role as CEO of Tzell Travel Group. 

“Not only is J. D. O’Hara a strong, proven leader within the broader Travel Leaders Group organization, but over the past six years, he’s had the opportunity to thoroughly understand and appreciate the very unique culture we’ve built within Tzell from the inside,” noted Liben. “His keen insights and experiences have prepared J. D. to provide effective and competent leadership for our organization for years to come. Of course, I will still be here very much involved with Tzell and J.D. will continue to report to me as I will look to him to provide more support and strength for our clients, our agents and our staff.” 

O’Hara first joined Travel Leaders Group at its inception in 2008 to lead its corporate development efforts, with one of his first accomplishments being the acquisition of Tzell. Prior to joining Travel Leaders Group, Mr. O’Hara had served in the investment banking industry in New York, advising clients in mergers and acquisitions, and other capital market transactions. 

“I’m truly honored to have been given the opportunity to lead this premier travel company into the future,” stated O’Hara. “Foremost among so many assets that contribute to Tzell’s success are its people. Our amazing agents and support staff are truly passionate about the business of travel, and it’s manifested in their daily commitment to exceed our clients’ needs and expectations. I look forward to being a part of this exceptional tradition for many years to come.”  

Since 1966, Tzell Travel Group has been providing its clients with the highest quality, most personalized travel experience integrated with today’s technology – whether it be corporate, entertainment or leisure travel. Tzell offers comprehensive travel management programs that blend the vast resources it is able to deliver as a travel powerhouse with the personalized dedication and emphasis on quality. 

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About Tzell Travel Group: 

With annual sales of approximately $2 billion, Tzell Travel Group – as part of Travel Leaders Group – is currently ranked first among the nation’s largest corporate travel management companies, according to Business Travel News. Tzell maintains its headquarters in New York City and has offices in 20 states. 

In everything it does, Tzell Travel Group places the highest priority on both its clients and its agents.  For the individual traveler, Tzell addresses value, convenience, comfort and safety with its customized quality traveler services.  For the corporate traveler, Tzell offers a broad line of cost containment products, meeting services and comprehensive travel management programs. 

Tzell focuses on the needs of its agents by providing a stellar work environment, an experienced leadership team and an industry leading support group.  These elements, combined with the industry’s most competitive air, hotel and leisure programs, create the paramount that is Tzell Travel. 

www.Tzell.com

Tzell Travel Group Honors Agent Bob Chirlian with Inaugural Tzell Humanitarian Award

New York, NY (February 3, 2014) — New York-based Tzell Travel Group is pleased to publicly honor longtime Tzell agent Bob Chirlian with its first ever Tzell Humanitarian Award. For over a decade, Chirlian has been an active volunteer for Fostering Change for Children – a non-profit organization that seeks to create innovative solutions to complex problems facing children and families in the field of social welfare. Tzell is making a donation in Chirlian’s honor to Fostering Change for Children.

“What began as a request – for Bob to join a mentoring program that matches adopted adults with young people who are in foster care, recently adopted or on the verge of adoption – turned into 10 years of dedication as a mentor, board member and fundraiser for Fostering Change for Children. Bob was recently recognized as an advocate for young people and families, and it is my sincere pleasure that he be named the recipient of the first-ever Tzell Humanitarian Award,” said Tzell Travel Group CEO Barry Liben. “Bob is not only a leader professionally at Tzell, but with his personal achievements, as well. On behalf of Tzell Travel Group, I would like to thank Bob for all of his hard work and dedication to our community.”

Chirlian began volunteering with Fostering Change for Children over a decade ago. As an adoptee himself, Chirlian was impressed with how the organization’s “Adoptment” program provided foster children with an outlet to speak with someone who had once been in their position, and utilize mentors (such as himself) as sounding boards in navigating many of the complicated issues children confront in the social welfare system and at home. In addition to his work with Fostering Change for Children, Chirlian has served as a board member for the Tzell Travel Group Foundation and is also an active volunteer with The Roundtable Ensemble – a theater company that specializes in providing theater access to diverse, underserved communities.

“I am both humbled and proud to receive the Tzell Humanitarian Award. This award confirms that the work we do for others in the nonprofit sector is absolutely essential and that one’s efforts do not always go unnoticed,” stated Chirlian. “In addition to the outstanding mission of the Tzell Travel Group Foundation, the establishment of the Tzell Humanitarian Award provides another opportunity to raise the visibility for many worthy charitable causes that often require a commitment of funding and support. Caring in conjunction with positive reflection enables people to then take action in making a serious commitment to the missions they care about most. No one should doubt their ability to make a defining difference for others in this world.”

Chirlian draws the comparison between his decades-long career in the corporate travel space and his commitment with charitable work, “Interestingly enough, there is some synergy between the mentoring I have done with young people and the astute informational guidance we are sought out for by our clients in the travel industry. Both groups are on journeys for which our concern, planning and care prove to be invaluable.”

To learn more about Tzell Travel Group and its first-class, white-glove, personalized and proactive customer service, visit Tzell.com. To learn more about the Tzell Travel Group Foundation, please visit: www.TzellFoundation.com.

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About Tzell Travel Group:

With annual sales approaching $1.6 billion, Tzell Travel Group – as part of Travel Leaders Group – is currently ranked first among the nation’s largest corporate travel management companies, according to Business Travel News. Tzell maintains its headquarters in New York City and has offices in 20 states.

In everything it does, Tzell Travel Group places the highest priority on both its clients and its agents.  For the individual traveler, Tzell addresses value, convenience, comfort and safety, with its customized quality traveler services.  For the corporation, Tzell offers a broad product line of cost containment, meeting services and comprehensive travel management programs.

Tzell focuses on the needs of its agents by providing the best work environment possible and the strongest leadership and support team.  These elements combined with excellent air/hotel leisure programs create the ‘safe haven’ which is a hallmark of the Tzell brand.

www.Tzell.com