Tzell – Internova Travel Group

Protravel International and Tzell UK to operate under Travel Leaders UK

London, United Kingdom (Friday, March 28, 2014) – Travel Leaders Group (www.travelleadersgroup.com) , one of the United States’ largest travel companies operating in the leisure and corporate travel marketplaces, has established Travel Leaders UK with its new headquarters in London. The company, which includes Protravel International, the Tzell Travel Group, Cruise Holidays, Vacation.com and its flagship Travel Leaders among its many brands, will use the capital city as a base for expansion in the United Kingdom (UK) and Europe.

Travel Leaders Group has combined the operations of its two largest UK businesses – Protravel International UK and Tzell UK – in the new Covent Garden premises. Protravel and Tzell UK, which together have more than 60 independent travel agents and have a combined annual sales volume of £40 million ($66 million), will operate under Travel Leaders UK.

Protravel’s Tina Rose has been appointed managing director of the UK operation, while Tzell UK’s Barry Whittaker has been named executive director of business development and acquisitions. Both will report directly to Travel Leaders Group chief executive officer Barry Liben.

Liben said: “Bringing Protravel and Tzell together in new London headquarters is the first step on an aggressive expansion plan in the UK and Europe. These businesses complement each other very well, which is good news for our clients, agents and suppliers. The objective is to replicate the success of our US business on this side of the Atlantic.”

Since its inception in 2008, Travel Leaders Group has grown from annual sales volume of more than $5 billion to over $20 billion last year. According to published reports, Travel Leaders Group now accounts for approximately one-third of all US-based travel agency operations, making it one of the largest travel companies in North America.

Liben added: “We expect growth to be both organic and through acquisition and are working to attract agents and agencies to our business by demonstrating why we’ve been able to grow so dramatically when other agency groups have not. Tina Rose and Barry Whittaker make an unbeatable leadership team with their innate and critical understanding for the intricacies of the marketplace.”

Protravel International and Tzell UK are among the UK’s leading travel companies that include independent agents and agencies. Tzell UK is ranked in the top 50 travel management companies in the UK and Ireland. Protravel International UK’s also has high-end corporate customers in addition to a vibrant leisure and cruise business.

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About Travel Leaders Group
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 annual sales of approximately $19 billion, 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.”

Tzell Branch Managers from across U.S. gathered in New York for annual Branch Meeting.

New York, NY (March 31, 2014) — New York-based Tzell Travel Group hosted its highly anticipated annual Branch Meeting on March 24, 2014, at The Pierre, Taj Hotel’s lavishly restored property in the heart of New York City. Tzell Branch Presidents and leaders gathered from around the country to hear firsthand from top Tzell leadership, luxury suppliers and notable guest speakers, including Delta Air Lines President Edward Bastian, Sabre CEO Tom Klein and Classic Vacations President David Hu. Attendees were welcomed to the prestigious event at an extravagant cocktail reception hosted by The Pierre on March 23; guests enjoyed an entertaining evening of live music and networking with other branches.

“The Tzell Branch Meeting has become one of our premier annual opportunities for our key leadership from across the country to meet face-to-face, not only to address issues of mutual interest within Tzell, but also to hear from some of our industry’s foremost leaders on topics of concern to us all,” stated Tzell CEO Barry Liben. “This unique blend of speakers not only contributes to our continued growth, but further underscores Tzell’s distinctive leadership role within the agency community.”

“Among the many reasons why our annual meeting is so well-attended is because it offers an exclusive setting where Tzell branches can network with their peers and learn directly from the industry’s top luxury suppliers and industry executives,” noted J.D. O’Hara, President of Tzell. “Armed with the knowledge that travel industry leaders recognize the quality and prestige that Tzell represents, our branch leadership leaves these meetings better equipped and motivated to grow our business even further.”

Liben continued, “Because our agents truly are the best in the business, it’s only appropriate that we provide them with exclusive opportunities to meet and hear from those who are at the forefront of our industry. We were fortunate to hear from several distinguished industry leaders – Delta’s Ed Bastian, Sabre’s Tom Klein and Classic Vacations’ David Hu – who recognize just how integral Tzell is to their continued success.”

Tzell Branch leaders were honored to hear Bastian discuss Delta’s continued ascent over the past five years. “It’s all about people – serving people who can take you there with the right attitude, morale and culture,” Bastian explained. “Service is what’s going to ‘win’ in this industry.”

In addition to Bastian, guests were also excited to hear from Tom Klein, CEO, Sabre; Holly Hegeman, CEO & Publisher, PlaneBusiness Banter; Kathleen Shea, Vice President, Sales and Marketing – The Americas, Taj Hotels Resorts & Palaces; David Hu, President, Classic Custom Vacations; Gabriel Menkin, CEO, Blue Ribbon Bags and Judi Galst, Business Development, CIBT. Attendees were also shown a brief video from event sponsor Viking Cruises.

The Tzell Branch Meeting agenda also included commentary from Liben and O’Hara, as well as Tzell’s Executive Vice President Jerry Behrens and members of Tzell’s headquarters team. Insightful discussions centered around the changing airline industry, Travel Leaders Group’s luxury hotel programs, effective public relations and fraud prevention. At the conclusion of the full-day meeting, The Pierre offered a site inspection of its spectacular venue to all Tzell participants.

“I look forward to attending the Tzell Branch Meeting every year because I leave feeling energized, focused, and ready to take my business to the next level,” said John Heimburger, President of TravelPlex, a branch of Tzell in St. Louis, MO. “Because Tzell is constantly making advancements and improvements to support my business, it’s important that I bring back this pertinent information to my staff. It also provides me a time to personally interact with Tzell leadership and enjoy direct access to industry leaders such as Ed Bastian and Sabre CEO Tom Klein.”

To learn more about Tzell Travel Group and its first-class, white-glove, personalized and proactive customer service, visit Tzell.com.

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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

Proceeds from the Foundation’s charity drive will be donated to AmeriCares, Make-a-Wish Foundation and The Thirst Project

New York, NY (April 23, 2014) — Today, Tzell Travel Group Foundation is announcing that its recent annual charity drive raised more than $80,000. The annual effort concluded on April 1, 2014, and provided an opportunity for Tzell agents, employees and the community to join together in raising funds for select organizations. This year’s charities were chosen by the Foundation’s board of directors and include AmeriCares, The Thirst Project and the Make-a-Wish Foundation.

“Due to the overwhelming generosity of those who participated in our annual charity drive, the Tzell Foundation is able to make a profound impact on several worthy charities,” stated Tzell President J.D. O’Hara. “Giving back to our community is a part of who we are at Tzell, and it’s an honor to be involved in such vital partnerships with AmeriCares, The Thirst Project and the Make-a-Wish Foundation.”

Since 2010, every dollar donated to AmeriCares provides $20 in aid. The recent donation made by the Tzell Travel Group Foundation will provide half a million dollars in crucial medicines and medical supplies. These will be delivered to a trusted network of clinics, hospitals and health care providers around the world.

In addition, the Tzell Travel Group Foundation is pleased to have raised sufficient funds to build two freshwater wells – one in Colombia and the other in Swaziland – on behalf of The Thirst Project. After freshwater wells are completed, a water committee within each community will be formed and educated about the importance of hand-washing and proper sanitization. Disease drops by 80% when clean drinking water is brought into a community, and one freshwater well can provide up to 500 people with clean water indefinitely.

Finally, a portion of the proceeds from the recent Tzell Foundation charity drive is making it possible to grant three wishes on behalf of the Make-a-Wish Foundation. The first wish was granted to Thomas, a nine-year old boy undergoing treatment for Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia. Thomas’ wish was to go to Hawaii with his family, and his wish was granted this past January. The second wish was granted to six-year old Madison, who is living with sickle cell disease. Madison loves Disney princesses and will be heading to Walt Disney World Resort with her twin sister, mother and grandmother. The third wish was granted to 12-year old Tyler, who was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease. His wish is to meet the professional soccer team, the New York Red Bulls. As Tyler waits for his big day, he is working on a long list of questions that he plans to ask the team and their coach.

“We would like to thank our friends at the Tzell Travel Group Foundation for sponsoring three incredible wishes. It is because of the bigheartedness of the Foundation and their donors that these wishes are made possible,” said Director of Corporate Philanthropy of Make-A-Wish® Metro New York and Western New York, Gail Monaco.

The Tzell Travel Group Foundation is a nonprofit foundation and all donations made are tax-deductible. Since recordkeeping began in 2001, Tzell Travel Group has donated over one-half million dollars to a variety of worthy charities. Those interested in learning more about the Tzell Travel Group Foundation can go to 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 $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 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-Created Position to Oversee Development and Implementation of Programs Designed to Further Enhance Tzell Agents’ Competitiveness in the Marketplace

New York, NY (May 14, 2014) — Today, Tzell Travel Group announced that it has tapped longtime Travel Leaders Group technology and marketing leader Jose Ferreira for a newly-created role as Vice President of Business Solutions. In addition to working with Tzell senior leadership in driving engagement among its travel agents and branches for its existing programs, he will specifically oversee the development and implementation of new programs designed to further enhance their competitiveness in the marketplace. Ferreira will join Tzell in July and be based at Tzell’s New York City headquarters and will report directly to Tzell President J.D. O’Hara.

“Throughout our history, Tzell has been an industry trailblazer in supporting the Independent Contractor (IC) and creating the ‘safe have’ where that business can flourish. Now, with the addition of Jose Ferreira to our leadership team, I’m especially confident our pioneering role will continue as we innovate – not only for Tzell’s agents but also for the industry,” O’Hara explained. “With a wealth of experience in both information technology and marketing, Jose has already made a significant and positive difference for our sister company that has positioned it well for many years to come. By tapping into his experience for Tzell, we look forward to Jose doing the same for us.”

Ferreira first joined Travel Leaders Group (now Tzell’s parent company) in 2006 in an information technology (IT) role that culminated in his serving as Director of Application Development for the company prior to being named Vice President of Technology by Travel Leaders Franchise Group in 2010. Once there, he was charged with helping member agencies better leverage their proprietary technologies to create points of difference in their businesses. Because of the intrinsic link between technology and the marketing initiatives that were fueled by it, Ferreira earned the dramatically expanded role of Vice President of Travel Technology and Marketing in 2012.

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:

www.Tzell.com

TMC plans expansion of corporate business and entry to leisure market

London, UK (May 21, 2014) – Avocet Travel Management, an independent travel management company (TMC), has joined the Tzell UK, part of Travel Leaders UK. The Surrey-based company has joined Tzell UK to underpin its aggressive growth strategy. The firm, which has an annual turnover of £3 million (over US $5 million), has clients from across a number of industry verticals, including the financial sector, manufacturing and logistics.

Neil Mewes, founder and managing director of Avocet Travel Management, says joining Tzell – which provides agents and agencies with technology, IATA bonding, accounting functions, IT support and other services – will allow him to focus on growing the business in two key areas.

“First of all, a number of new contractors will join our business, bringing their business travel clients under the Avocet business umbrella,” said Mewes. “We then collectively benefit from working under the Tzell umbrella, which means our customers have access to the best airfares and hotel rates while receiving a specialised, personal service from the team.”

In March, it was announced that Tzell UK and Protravel, which are both owned by US-based Travel Leaders Group, would operate under Travel Leaders UK, though each has retained its brand identity. Protravel’s business includes some high-end corporate clientele, but also has a vibrant leisure and cruise operation from which Mewes is looking to benefit.

“One of the benefits of joining Tzell and Travel Leaders UK is that we will also be able to work with our new partners at Protravel,” he said. “While my initial focus is on growing the corporate business, the relationship and access to Protravel means we will launch a leisure service for our customers in due course.”

Barry Whittaker, executive director of business development and acquisitions for Travel Leaders UK, said: “Neil understands the tangible benefits and support Avocet will derive from the Travel Leaders UK family means he can stay totally focused on growing his business and making sure his team is providing the best possible service to customers.”

As part of Avocet’s expansion strategy it will also provide meetings and events services to its corporate clients.

Tzell UK and Protravel are among the top 50 travel management companies in the UK.

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About Tzell Travel Group:

With annual sales approaching US $2 billion in 2013, 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. Its UK headquarters is in London.

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 programmes create the “safe haven” which is a hallmark of the Tzell brand.

www.Tzell.com

Tzell Travel Group will host clients at its New York City headquarters on June 13 as part of its TSA Pre✓™ Mobile Enrollment Program.

New York, NY (June 6, 2014) — New York-based Tzell Travel Group is announcing that one week from today, it will enable its clients to complete their TSA Pre✓™ enrollment at its headquarters – located at 119 W 40th Street – rather than making a special trip to the airport as required of most travelers. Tzell’s TSA Pre✓™ Mobile Enrollment Program is designed to offer convenient accessibility for its most frequent travelers in finalizing their applications for expedited airport screening. According to the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), “TSA Pre✓ allows low-risk travelers to experience expedited, more efficient security screening at participating U.S. airport checkpoints for domestic and international travel.”

“With TSA expanding its pre-check screening program, we are encouraging our most frequent travelers to take advantage of the benefits. To make it even easier, we are proudly partnering with the TSA in enabling our clients to visit our convenient Midtown Manhattan offices to complete the formal process here,” stated Tzell President, J.D. O’Hara. “Tzell has built a stellar reputation for providing our clients with elite, personalized service, and our TSA Pre✓™ Mobile Enrollment Program is a prime example. We want our clients to travel with ease and providing a convenient way for them to complete the application process and have all of their questions answered in a centralized and relaxed environment – our offices – is simply a better approach.”

Tzell clients interested in taking advantage of this exclusive opportunity are required to complete the TSA Pre✓™ online application prior to June 13. During Tzell’s TSA Pre✓™ Mobile Enrollment Program, professional enrollment agents will be at Tzell headquarters to obtain an applicant’s biographic data and fingerprints, which will be securely transmitted to the TSA on the client’s behalf. Clients confirmed for expedited airport screening will receive confirmation of their status within 2-3 weeks.

“We all lead very busy schedules both personally and professionally. Knowing in advance that I have a secured time and date to accomplish this very important item on my ‘to do’ list is simply invaluable,” stated Tzell agent Maria A. Ravnikar of New York, NY. “The TSA Pre-Check Mobile Enrollment Program Tzell offers exclusively to its agents and clients is just one of the many reasons why they continue to be a cut above the rest.”

To learn more about Tzell Travel Group and its first-class, white-glove, personalized and proactive customer service, visit Tzell.com.

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About Tzell Travel Group:

With annual sales of $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 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

Office Becomes First Agency to Open in Santa Monica Municipal Airport, Positioned to Service Entertainment Clientele

Los Angeles, CA (June 20, 2014) – A branch of Tzell Travel Group, New York-based First in Service Travel – known for its high profile clientele in entertainment, fashion, business, and sports – will open its West Coast offices on Monday, June 23, in the Santa Monica Municipal Airport (SMO). This expansion marks the first travel agency to open in SMO, known as a favorite venue for celebrities, politicians and executives. It also builds on Tzell Travel Group’s existing West Coast presence.

The Santa Monica location makes perfect sense for the clientele. First in Service CEO and co-founder Fernando Gonzalez explains, “After an extensive search, we knew that SMO was the ideal location to establish our roots in L.A. We are located in the celebrity entrance of the terminal so it will be a very high profile spot. The views of the runway are very impressive, too.”

The Los Angeles team includes industry experts Chad Rodarme, Mona Behringer, Mina Shaffiee, and Thelma Abhyankar. First in Service President Erika Reategui adds, “Our L.A. business is exploding so we’re very proud to have some of the best in the business on our team as we continue to grow our West Coast presence.” First in Service is a branch of Tzell Travel Group, renowned as one of America’s premier travel management companies.

ABOUT FIRST IN SERVICE TRAVEL:

New York City-based First in Service (F1S) – a branch of Tzell Travel Group – is a leading design house of travel, with a discerning 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 has dedicated corporate, luxury leisure, entertainment and events divisions. For more information, please visit www.firstinservice.com. Follow us on Twitter at @1stinService or visit on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/FirstInServiceTravel.

ABOUT SANTA MONICA MUNICIPAL AIRPORT (SMO):

SMO origins date back to 1917 when aircraft first began landing at the private air field. In 1926 the city of Santa Monica purchased it. During World War II, Douglas Aircraft built more than 10,000 aircraft at SMO. In 1979 Donald Douglas Jr. established the Museum of Flying which opened in its current location at SMO in 2012, with a permanent display of nearly two dozen historic aircraft, along with many exhibits, art and photographs. Today the airport is a regular venue for business titans, celebrities and politicians.

ABOUT TZELL TRAVEL GROUP:

With annual sales exceeding $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. www.Tzell.com

Office Becomes First Agency to Open in Santa Monica Municipal Airport, Positioned to Service Entertainment Clientele

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ABOUT FIRST IN SERVICE TRAVEL:

ABOUT SANTA MONICA MUNICIPAL AIRPORT (SMO):

ABOUT TZELL TRAVEL GROUP:

With annual sales exceeding $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. www.Tzell.com

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.

www.Tzell.com

Tzell Travel Group joins travel agencies and travel agents throughout the United States in Travel Leaders Group’s “Day of Giving”

New York, NY (July 30, 2014) — New York-based Tzell Travel Group is pleased to announce that its employees recently raised over $22,000 and collected 500 pounds of food to support Food Bank For New York City. Tzell agents and staff members collected the non-perishable food items at Tzell’s headquarters located at 119 W 40th Street. In addition, Tzell agents and staff members volunteered at Food Bank For New York City and further increased their donation through the support of a monetary match. The philanthropic initiative was part of a nationwide Day of Giving in which Tzell joined with other Travel Leaders Group travel agencies and travel agents throughout the United States on July 10 in a concentrated effort to reduce hunger. Tzell is a Travel Leaders Group company.

“We’re proud to join the many other travel agents and agencies participating in the annual Travel Leaders Group Day of Giving. Giving back to our local community has always been an essential part of who we are,” stated Tzell Travel Group President, J.D. O’Hara. “I would like to extend my sincere gratitude to all of the agents and staff members within Tzell Travel Group who supported this initiative. With the corporate matching program Food Bank For New York City has in place, our total amount raised was $22,000. The monetary donation, along with the 500 pounds of food collected, will provide an estimated 110,000 meals through Food Bank For New York City.”

O’Hara added, “According to Food Bank For New York City, approximately 2.6 million New Yorkers experience difficulty affording food for themselves and their families. As the summer months are particularly slow for most food shelves, it’s important that we support the local community and this worthy cause.”

“Tzell Travel Group and their Day of Giving efforts are greatly appreciated here at Food Bank For New York City,” said Lee Cheney, food/fund sourcing manager for Food Bank For New York City. “The support that Tzell provides is tremendous, yet humbling. They understand that the summer months are a difficult time for those we serve, as students are out of school and more food is needed for the family table. Food Bank For New York City could not be more proud to have Tzell as supporter and as a friend.”

All totaled, the concerted Day of Giving effort collected more than 18,500 food and toiletry items weighing in at 7,889 pounds – nearly four tons. Approximately 240 Travel Leaders Group employees and travel agents volunteered 697.5 hours with local food banks in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Uruguay.

Those interested in learning more about the Food Bank For New York City can visit http://www.foodbanknyc.org. To learn more about Tzell Travel Group, go to www.Tzell.com.

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About Tzell Travel Group:

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

NEXT Prepares Next Generation of Travel Agents for Successful Careers in Growing Industry.

New York, NY (July 31, 2014) — Today as part of a joint announcement by Protravel International and Tzell Travel Group, the two luxury travel agencies unveiled NEXT – an initiative geared toward recruiting, reeducating and retaining young professionals. Among several components, the program includes an in-house training and placement initiative to recruit and train the next generation of luxury travel specialists. The innovative new program will provide its participants with customized training, a dedicated mentor, and placement within one of the two companies, ultimately serving as a launch pad for success. The first training session will begin in the fall of 2014.

“There are few professions that can offer the level of prestige, excitement and glamor to young professionals quite like the travel industry can. Within the travel agency segment, our message to Millennials is simple: ‘The world can be yours,’” explained Barry Liben, who serves as CEO for both Protravel and Tzell. “As the travel industry constantly evolves and grows, so do opportunities for tomorrow’s travel agents. Our NEXT program builds on the rock solid foundation and offers aspiring agents with the crucial next step to enter the exciting world of travel.”

NEXT will be under the direction of Marisa Costa, who not only has experience as a luxury travel specialist, but is also a Millennial herself. “Marisa Costa is an outstanding leader who can speak authoritatively with her peers and attract them to our industry,” Liben noted. “Marisa has already made a name for herself among Millennials in the travel industry through her involvement with Young Travel Professionals (YTP), where she serves as Business Development Manager on the Global Board.”

“Millennials are on their way to becoming the top consumer over the next few years, and the industry must evolve to change its perception among this new generation – ultimately, gaining credibility with Millennials so they want to book with a travel agent is contingent upon the industry recruiting and preparing agents they can relate to,” stated Costa. “NEXT intends to pave the way by fostering young, savvy, enthusiastic agents for these Millennial clients to work with.”

According to Liben, NEXT complements the Travel Leaders of Tomorrow’s training modules offered by the parent company of Protravel and Tzell. “This new initiative is specifically designed for anyone who wants to turn their passion for travel and high-end luxury into a rewarding profession,” Liben added.

“What sets NEXT apart from other programs is that all of our candidates will be trained specifically for placement in either Protravel or Tzell by learning extensively how the individual brand has distinguished itself in the realm of luxury travel,” noted Costa. “NEXT focuses on three main components: recruit, retain, and reeducate. The NEXT program will recruit employees and place them within Protravel or Tzell in a position that is the most appropriate fit for their talents, goals and objectives; reeducate Millennials about the travel industry, the evolved role of the travel agent and about Protravel and Tzell; and retain existing travel professionals and help them advance their careers.”

Costa indicated that equally as important as recruiting new talent is maintaining the extraordinary talent Protravel and Tzell already have. To that end, NEXT also serves as a network focusing on building relationships among other young agents within Protravel and Tzell, as well as their contemporaries within the industry. NEXT showcases its agents through the website, www.mytravelagentlife.com, where agents can share their stories of how they got involved in the industry, all the places they’ve traveled globally, and the glamorous life they lead. The goal is to demonstrate to the next generation how they too can enjoy a fruitful career in the exciting, modern world of travel.

With an award-winning reputation, Protravel International is a recognized leader in corporate and luxury travel. Protravel was founded in 1984 and is headquartered in New York City. With annual sales reaching over $870 million, it has grown into a network of 18 branch locations throughout the United States and London, plus a network of hosted agents throughout the U.S.

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About Protravel International LLC:

Protravel International LLC is a Travel Leaders Group company. Founded in 1984, Protravel International LLC is a full-service, dynamic travel company with an award-winning reputation. With annual sales reaching over $870 million, Protravel is headquartered in New York City and supports a network of 18 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

About Tzell Travel Group:

With annual sales of $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 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

Tzell agents have the ability to distribute “The Hub” – an information-rich corporate travel newsletter – to their clients on a monthly basis.

New York, NY (August 28, 2014) — Today, Tzell Travel Group is pleased to introduce The Hub, Tzell’s new sophisticated corporate travel newsletter. The Hub will be available, on a monthly basis, via email, to Tzell agents. In addition, Tzell agents will have the ability to distribute the corporate newsletter to their clients as a personalized touch point. The Hub will provide consistent, compelling information on travel industry news, supplier updates, essential tips and inspiration for travel. The Hub adds to the already extensive suite of content, technology, programs and education Tzell Travel Group provides its agents to help strengthen their business.

“Tzell Travel Group is constantly evaluating different opportunities to create efficiencies for our agents and supply them with a means to stay connected to their clients on a regular basis,” stated Tzell President, J.D. O’Hara. “The Hub is unique because it not only provides a centralized location for global industry updates and information for our agents, but the content is also beneficial for all frequent travelers who want to be kept up-to-date on the latest in business travel.”

O’Hara continued, “The newsletter distribution is managed by our Tzell headquarters team. However, when a client receives The Hub, it will appear as though the email has been sent directly from their agent. This type of offering is extremely beneficial for our agents, because we manage the content development and distribution, thus providing our agents time to create and nurture relationships with potential and existing clients.”

The Hub will include striking, recurring industry features such as Above It All, news on the airline industry; Hot Hotels – features on new and updated hotels; the Insider’s Guide – with updates on news and regulations that affect travelers; At Your Leisure, information about leisure travel services; and New At Tzell, which will provide clients with updates on Tzell Travel Group. In addition, The Hub will also provide quick links to: the U.S. Department of State, information on visas and passports, TSA Pre-Check, Global Entry and currency exchange information.

“For me, it’s about placing our clients at the center of everything we do,” stated Tzell agent Kim Reicherter-Specht of New York, NY. “The Hub is a great outlet to provide awareness on updates concerning the travel industry, specific destinations and locations, and all matters related to Tzell. The Hub is not only a benefit to me, but also for my clients.”

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About Tzell Travel Group:

With annual sales of $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 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

Four Tzell Agents Selected as the “Best in the Business” Based on Specific Areas of Expertise.

New York, NY (September 8, 2014) — Travel + Leisure – widely admired as one of the most influential consumer travel magazines – has recognized Tzell Travel Group agents Harlan DeBell, Kara Bebell, Ellen LeCompte and Doris White, including them on its distinguished 2014 List of Top Travel Advisors. Tzell, with its worldwide headquarters located in Manhattan, is represented on the Travel + Leisure 2014 A-List of Top Travel Advisors by these outstanding travel agents, who have received exclusive recommendations for their expertise on specific destinations and niche travel specialties. The 13th Annual A-List of Top Travel Advisors, selected by Travel + Leisure editors, showcases the best travel advisors in the business.

“To have a select group of our agents recognized by one of the most influential consumer travel magazines solidifies what we at Tzell already know to be true; Tzell travel agents provide exemplary service and go the extra mile to provide clients with high quality, unique and personalized travel experiences,” stated Tzell Travel Group President, J.D. O’Hara. “I’d like to congratulate Harlan, Kara, Ellen and Doris for being singled out by Travel + Leisure for this honor based on their exceptional abilities. They, along with all of Tzell’s travel agents, make remarkable things happen for their clients on a daily basis.”

With their deep relationships in the wedding industry across the globe – including florists, caterers, and confectioners – Travel + Leisure recognized brother-and-sister team, DeBell and Bebell for their expertise in “Weddings and Honeymoons.” “They are often on site at destination weddings, and have planned everything from an intimate party at La Pause hotel, outside Marrakesh, Morocco, to a 150-person, medieval-themed wedding at the Capella Pedregal, in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico,” explains Travel + Leisure.

Noting her 23 years of as a travel agent, Travel + Leisure singles out LeCompte for her specialization in the “United Kingdom.” Travel + Leisure states: “LeCompte—who went to school in England and lives part-time in a 17th-century cottage in the Cotswolds—will satisfy even the most zealous Anglophile. She can book special tours of Highclere Castle, where Downton Abbey is filmed, arrange tea with prominent members of the aristocracy, and secure box seats at Manchester United games.”

In selecting White for her expertise in “Adventure,” Travel + Leisure takes note of her 26 years as a travel agent and her ability to “pull off herculean feats on behalf of travelers.” Travel + Leisure further explained: “When clients lost their luggage before a multiday hike, she got shopkeepers in a remote Swiss village to stay open late so they could buy boots, socks, and poles (on an expense allowance approved by the insurance company, no less). For a group cycling in Burgundy, White planned breaks at private, family-owned vineyards during harvest season.”

In its introduction of the 2014 A-List of Top Travel Advisors, Travel + Leisure noted: Painting classes in an Italian artist’s studio. A sail down the Brazilian coast in a private yacht. An African safari led by a documentary filmmaker. A top travel advisor can help you turn your next vacation into the experience of a lifetime. In T+L’s 13th annual A-List, we showcase the best specialists in the business—those who can both book you into sold-out hotels and introduce you to the most keyed-in local guides. Here, they reveal their favorite new hotels, destinations on the rise, and tips for making travel better.

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About Tzell Travel Group:

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

Par Excellence Lifestyle latest step in European growth plans

LONDON, UK (November 13, 2014) - Travel Leaders UK has announced that bespoke travel specialist Par Excellence Lifestyle has joined its growing portfolio of concierge-style independent agents and agencies. Danny Akhtar, the founder of the new travel, event and lifestyle management company, has more than 20 years experience serving Blue Chip companies and high-net worth individuals. He joins Travel Leaders UK, whose core brands include Protravel and Tzell UK, from an independent travel management company where he headed the VIP travel team.

Akhtar is arguably one of the travel industry’s most complete professionals, having spent his career working for major companies in both the corporate and leisure travel sectors. His CV includes tenures with major intermediaries in the business and luxury leisure travel industries, in addition to senior roles with hotel representation companies and major firms including Unilever, Citi, Goldman Sachs, HSBC and British Telecom where he established bespoke travel services for senior executives.

Akhtar said: “Having dedicated my life to serving high-end customers at the pinnacle of the market and developing relationships with the world’s foremost hotel suppliers, I felt now was the right time to start working for myself. Travel Leaders UK, with its Protravel and Tzell UK brands, gives travel professionals such as myself the platform to grow a business, provide the highest standards of service and ultimately to be profitable.

“The Travel Leaders Group’s buying power globally means we as agencies can provide our clients with the most competitive rates and fares available in the marketplace. Making bookings is, of course, the simple part. Having the support of Travel Leaders UK allows us to focus on providing the white glove service that our customers have come to expect,” concluded Akhtar.

Travel Leaders UK, part of US-based Travel Leaders Group, opened European headquarters in London in May as part of its strategy to grow the business across the Continent. Barry Whittaker, the company’s Executive Director of Business Development and Acquisition, said the introduction of Par Excellence Lifestyle was another significant step towards establishing the brand in the UK and European marketplaces.

“Danny has not only arranged travel for some of the world’s most iconic celebrities and celebrated sports stars, he also has the rich knowledge that comes with working with leading corporate brands. The introduction of his new agency to Travel Leaders UK demonstrates our ability to attract the industry’s brightest minds. Our model gives agents with established client bases the opportunity to work for themselves and grow successful businesses.”

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About Travel Leaders Group

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, Protravel International and Vacation.com– Travel Leaders Group manages leisure, business and franchise travel operations under a variety of diversified divisions and brands. With annual sales of approximately US $20 billion, 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.”

Travel Leaders UK is made up of our two unique brands, Tzell UK and Protravel International.

With annual sales in the UK in excess of £30 million and throughout the group more than $2billion , Tzell Travel Group – as part of Travel Leaders Group – is currently ranked within the top 30 travel management companies (TMCs) in the UK, according to UK trade publication Buying Business Travel . Tzell maintains its headquarters in New York City and has offices in 20 states. Its UK & European headquarters is in London.

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

www.tzell.co.uk

Protravel’s diversity of products, size of annual sales and internationally 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.

www.protravelinternational.com

Tzell’s 17^th Annual Anniversary Gala Took Place at The New York Palace Hotel

New York, NY (November 21, 2014) — New York-based Tzell Travel Group is pleased to announce that it recently recognized and celebrated the organization’s independent travel agents and headquarters staff at its 17^th annual anniversary gala. Tzell Travel Group Chief Executive Officer Barry Liben personally presented and introduced all 53 prestigious Anniversary Awards and honored those individuals celebrating five-, 10-, 15-, 20-, 25- and 30-year anniversaries. Over 150 invited guests attended Tzell’s annual gala, which took place on November 14, at one of New York City’s most renowned, legendary properties – The New York Palace Hotel.

As part of the celebration, Tzell agents Martin Gould and Phyllis Kohut received the Tzell Anniversary Award for each of their 30 years of dedication and excellence with Tzell Travel Group; in addition, Miriam Cohen and Franzi Bier were each honored for 25 years of exemplary efforts in providing unparalleled service and expertise to their clients.

“Tzell Travel Group’s roots are deep, and this exceptional annual event reminds all of us just how extraordinary Tzell is in the realm of luxury travel, as well as the vast role it has played throughout so many people’s lives,” stated Tzell President J.D. O’Hara. “Tzell could not have achieved its prominent position with today’s luxury travel marketplace without our agents and staff. They are the cornerstone and the strength behind all that we do.”

O’Hara continued: “To publicly recognize those who have dedicated decades of their lives to Tzell is something I am very humbled to be part of. On behalf of the entire Tzell organization, my heartfelt congratulations go to Martin, Phyllis, Miriam and Franzi for all that they have accomplished throughout their careers with a single-minded focus on extraordinary service to their clients. We are all truly grateful to be immersed among such talented and passionate individuals.”

“When I started at Tzell 30 years ago, there were only three employees. Over the decades, I have been able to watch Tzell grow into the empire it is today,” stated Gould. “It’s a huge honor for me to celebrate this 30 year milestone and share the Anniversary Award with my esteemed colleague who recently passed, Rina Anoussi. My future aspirations are to continue Rina’s legacy and build on the excellence we worked so hard over the years to create. The team at Tzell has really become my alternate family and to receive this award in front of them is a huge honor.”

“When I first walked into Tzell, I didn’t realize I would be here for a quarter of a century, but I had a good sense that this was the best place to work, and I was right. Tzell has become my home away from home and is such a huge part of my life,” said Cohen. “At Tzell, you are surrounded by good people and we all want the best for each other – you feel like you are part of one big family. I am very passionate about my work, I feel blessed and honored to be where I am in my career.”

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 the organization – 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 of $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 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

For the third consecutive year, Tzell travel agents to attend one of the
travel industry’s preeminent luxury forums.

New York, NY (November 25, 2014) — Today, Tzell Travel Group is pleased to announce that a highly select group of its top luxury travel agents and executives will be representing Tzell at the upcoming International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) event taking place in Cannes, France, December 1-4, 2015. This is the third consecutive year that Tzell Travel Group will have a delegation in attendance at the prominent luxury forum. According to ILTM, the upcoming event in Cannes is luxury travel’s flagship event, where the world’s very best travel agents and advisors meet the world’s very best luxury travel experiences.

“I am incredibly pleased that Tzell is so highly revered in the industry that we are able to send many of our preeminent luxury travel agents to experience, firsthand, the emerging trends in the luxury marketplace,” stated Tzell Travel Group President J.D. O’Hara. “Our travel agents are known for their superior expertise and 24/7 concierge service in the luxury and ultra-luxury travel arenas. By attending the upcoming ILTM event in Cannes, we reaffirm the commitment to our clients of providing the very highest quality and the ultimate in personalized travel experiences.”

Tzell Travel Group travel agents Kathryn Anschutz, Jody Bear, Jayne Bliss, Miriam Cohen, Eric Hrubant, Jeffrey Kane, Kim Specht and Roy Twiste are part of the select group of attendees at this year’s ILTM event in Cannes. In addition, Vice President, Leisure Sales for Tzell Travel Group, Gina Gabbard; Vice President, Hotel Programs & Development, Christina Gambini; and Senior Vice President, Operations for Tzell Travel Group, Monty Swaney will be in attendance as part of Tzell’s delegation. Sydney Rosen,
Manager of Travel Leaders Group’s Select Hotels & Resorts Program is also an invited guest among the Tzell participants hosted by ILTM. Each member of Tzell’s delegation is from New York City.

In conjunction with the event, Tzell Travel Group attendees will have the opportunity to experience the legendary Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc. While the prominent five-star hotel is “closed for the season,” this renowned property will open its doors exclusively to the entire contingent from Travel Leaders Group, Tzell’s parent company. This private event will allow guests to experience incomparable ambience and views while enjoying an exquisite dinner.

According to its website, International Luxury Travel Market is a portfolio of global, regional and specialist luxury travel events. Event attendees in Cannes are invited to choose up to 52 one-one-one appointments from a select community of 3,000 luxury buyers and suppliers.

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About Tzell Travel Group:

With annual sales of $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 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

The Tzell Travel Foundation has selected 4 Paws for Ability, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Gary Sinise Foundation as this year’s recipients.

New York, NY (December 15, 2014) — Today, the Tzell Travel Foundation publicly announced that its annual charity drive is underway and will continue through February 1, 2015. The Tzell Travel Foundation’s charity drive provides the opportunity for Tzell agents, employees and the community to raise money for exceptional charitable organizations. The charities for 2015 were chosen by the Foundation’s Board of Directors and include 4 Paws for Ability, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital^® and the Gary Sinise Foundation.

“Our Foundation’s annual charity drive creates an extraordinary opportunity within our community to give back to nonprofit organizations that so many of us hold close to our heart,” stated Tzell Travel Group President J.D. O’Hara. “While our formal Tzell Travel Foundation is relatively new, the annual charity drive was established over 13 years ago by our CEO Barry Liben to enormous successes. This year we’re partnering three outstanding organizations – 4 Paws for Ability, St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital and the Gary Sinise Foundation. Because of the energy and excitement surrounding our annual charity drive, I’m confident we will, again, raise significant money and awareness for these charitable entities.”

The Tzell Travel Foundation is a nonprofit organization and all donations made are tax-deductible. Since recordkeeping began in 2001, Tzell Travel Group has donated three quarters of a million dollars to a variety of worthy charities.

Here is additional information about this year’s charity drive recipients:

4 Paws for Ability:

4 Paws for Ability enriches the lives of children with disabilities by training and placing quality, task-trained service dogs. This provides increased independence for the children and assistance to their families. 4 Paws for Ability also works with veterans from recent conflicts who’ve lost the use of their limbs or their hearing while in active combat. Service dogs are trained in seizure alert/response, autism assistance, mobility assistance, diabetic alert, hearing ear/signal work and multipurpose assistance.

St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital:

The mission of St. Jude is to advance cures and means of prevention for pediatric catastrophic diseases through research and treatment. Consistent with the vision of their founder, Danny Thomas, no child is denied treatment based on race, religion or a family’s ability to pay.

The Gary Sinise Foundation:

The mission of the Gary Sinise Foundation is to serve our nation by honoring our defenders, veterans, first responders, their families, and those in need. They do this by creating and supporting unique programs designed to entertain, educate, inspire, strengthen, and build communities.

In the past, Tzell has donated to organizations such as: Fisher House Foundation, Habitat for Humanity, Make a Wish Foundation, Pancreatic Cancer Research and Toys for Tots.

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

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About Tzell Travel Group:

With annual sales of $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 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

Tzell aligns new website with its mission, exemplified through refreshed logo and new marketing tagline: “Beyond Your Destination”

New York, NY (January 9, 2015) — Today, Tzell Travel Group is formally revealing its completely revamped business consumer website, www.tzell.com, which better reflects its business philosophy embodied within its new tagline, “Beyond Your Destination.” As the travel industry vanguard in providing sophisticated and superior service to its corporate and entertainment travel clients, Tzell is using its more user-friendly website and new tagline to showcase its commitment to excellence. The newly unveiled website incorporates more robust, updated content with a further refined look and feel, as well as linking directly to its new luxury leisure website.

“Tzell is unique in the fact that our VIP clients enjoy the power of a mega agency, but with the high-touch attention to detail of a boutique travel agency,” stated Tzell Travel Group President J.D. O’Hara. “As Tzell continues to grow its global presence and service offerings, the alignment between our brand identity and our website has never been more critical to our success. The incorporation of our new tagline ‘Beyond Your Destination’ perfectly characterizes our award-winning travel advisors’ knowledge and expertise as they continually exceed their clients’ expectations and execute their travel plans, flawlessly.”

The added enhancements to www.tzell.com include emphasis on Tzell’s three key differentiators: global power, personalized services & flawless execution. Newly added to the website is a section dedicated to service with information on the company’s exceptional hotel partners and their exclusive value-added amenities for Tzell’s clients. Information is also provided on the array of white-glove services offered by Tzell, including private jet procurement, passports & visas assistance, and a variety of executive services geared specifically to the C-Level, thus ensuring appropriate and discreet VIP treatment. Valuable VIP services include: private transportation, coveted restaurant reservations, international mobile phone arrangements and luggage handling.

With Tzell’s newly refined logo, the revamped site also features updated content surrounding Tzell’s award winning corporate business travel & entertainment travel management programs:

Corporate Business Travel: “Tzell Travel has built its reputation on providing its clients with unmatched service, pricing and customization. Tzell’s comprehensive travel management programs utilize the negotiating power of a travel industry powerhouse and the personalized dedication of award winning Travel Advisors to provide a flawless execution.”

Entertainment Travel Management: “Tzell Travel Group is proud to be one of the largest and most successful entertainment travel management companies in the world. With decades of experience and an unmatched network of contacts in the travel industry, Tzell Travel Advisors are simply the best in the business.”

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About Tzell Travel Group:

With annual sales of $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 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

NEXT Joint Initiative by Protravel and Tzell Places Each Inaugural Participant;

Second Session Slated to Begin in February

New York, NY (January 16, 2015) — After placing each of its entire first generation of NEXT candidates into full-time travel agency positions, NEXT – the innovative, new initiative jointly launched last year by Protravel International and Tzell Travel Group – today unveiled plans for its second session to begin in February. The initiative, geared toward recruiting, reeducating and retaining young travel professionals, is heavily focused on attracting new talent, particularly Millennials, into both of the luxury-focused travel agencies. The initiative includes a customized training and placement program from which all inaugural participants were placed within Protravel, Tzell will host the second group of NEXT candidates next month.

“Our first NEXT training session within Protravel was a tremendous success and exceeded our expectations,” explained Barry Liben, CEO of both Protravel and Tzell. “This ‘NEXT generation’ gained firsthand knowledge and experience in the glamorous world of luxury travel and understand just how imperative it is to receive hands-on training from the experienced agents who serve as their mentors. We’re thrilled to retain them as part of our team.”

“Momentum is clearly building within the travel industry for catering to the distinctive needs of Millennials, making it incumbent upon us to also attract this key demographic into our ranks,” stated Patrick Fragale, President of Protravel. “Our inaugural NEXT participants were in high demand and were matched with seasoned agents within Protravel who will act as their mentors going forward.”

“Tzell is so committed to fostering a welcoming environment for the NEXT generation of travel agents, that we’ll host the second group of candidates at our offices next month,” noted J.D. O’Hara, President of Tzell. “This in turn will enable many of our leading Tzell agents to directly and personally engage with each prospect and lead to what we hope are many partnership opportunities.”

“NEXT succeeded in its first goal of recruitment,” explained Marisa Costa, Director of NEXT. “By finding enthusiastic, talented individuals, putting them through tailored in-house training and placing them in positions that are the most appropriate fit for their talents, interests, and goals, we believe we’ve found a great home for our inaugural candidates. However, recruiting and training new talent is only the tip of the iceberg. Equally important is retaining the next generation of travel professionals by helping them advance in their careers, and to ensure their successful futures by reeducating Millennials about why they should work with a travel agent.”

Taking note of Millennials’ social media acumen and their desire to make connections, Costa indicated that NEXT also serves as a network focusing on building relationships among other Millennial agents within Protravel and Tzell, as well as their contemporaries throughout the industry. The joint initiative’s dedicated site, MyTravelAgentLife.com is also enabling NEXT to further build its own database of potential candidates for the training program and other available positions within the two companies.

“During their training, our NEXT candidates also learned the importance of networking,” Costa noted. “They attended many industry functions and met with key players in travel. They gained insight into just how exciting the world of travel is, especially in luxury travel agencies like Protravel and Tzell.”

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About Protravel International LLC:

Protravel International LLC is a Travel Leaders Group company. Founded in 1984, Protravel International LLC is a full-service, dynamic travel company with an award-winning reputation. With annual sales reaching over $870 million, Protravel is headquartered in New York City and supports a network of 18 branch locations throughout the United States and London, plus a network of hosted agents in all corners of the U.S. Today, approximately 1,000 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.

www.protravelinc.com

About Tzell Travel Group:

With annual sales of $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 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

Vacationsbytzell.com features extensive resources and insightful information on upscale land vacations, cruises, resorts and villas, along with its signature concierge services and LGBT travel.

New York, NY (February 4, 2015) — Today, Tzell Travel Group is formally unveiling its luxury leisure travel website, Vacationsbytzell.com. In addition to its sleek and compelling look and feel, Tzell’s contemporary leisure travel website offers discerning travelers enhanced, proprietary content on a variety of travel subjects of particular interest to the agency’s sophisticated and upscale clientele, along with improved usability and intuitive navigation tools and resources. Complementing its recently launched business travel-focused site at Tzell.com, Vacationsbytzell.com mirrors Tzell Travel Group’s commitment toward providing unparalleled travel information, matching its industry-leading travel expertise delivered directly to its clientele.

“It’s important for Tzell to have its own dedicated leisure travel site and offer a unique user experience for the leisure traveler, as their wants and needs are much different than that of a corporate business traveler. The new Vacationsbytzell.com aligns perfectly with our strategic vision of providing our clients with the most sophisticated offers and resources to answer all their travel-related questions with ease,” said Tzell Travel Group President, J.D. O’Hara. “One of the many reasons why Tzell continues to flourish and remain at the forefront of the luxury marketplace is because we fuel passion and desire for travel. With thoughtfully crafted content and a more refreshing look and feel, we’ve elevated our client-facing website to achieve a more optimal and intriguing experience for our customers.”

Among the added features to Vacationsbytzell.com are the following sections:

Celebration Travel: In addition to destination weddings and honeymoons, major life events – such as anniversaries, birthdays, graduations, retirements, reunions, and even expecting a child – are perfect opportunities to celebrate via travel. A vacation is the most unforgettable way to celebrate the special moments of one’s life and Tzell Travel can make one’s milestone that much more memorable by planning a trip of a lifetime.

Concierge Services: Tzell is dedicated to meeting the personal interests, expectations and needs of all of its clients. To experience the truly exceptional, Tzell Travel advisors provide concierge services. Using its vast resources, Tzell travel agents plan personalized experiences, arrange transportation to and from the airport, and secure tickets for theatre, sporting events and concerts.

Hotels, Resorts and Villas: Tzell Travel offers its clients a collection of the world’s most desirable and distinguished luxury and premium properties, which provide amenities that may include complimentary breakfast for two, early check-in/late checkout, parking, gym access, upgrades and more. In addition, the website has a section dedicated to villa rentals for the truly discerning client.

LGBT Travel: Tzell is proud to have travel advisors who are extremely knowledgeable in LGBT travel, with firsthand experiences about welcoming hotels, top hotspots, gay cruises and more. Tzell’s travel agents specializing in LGBT travel assist clients in planning destination weddings, honeymoons, family vacations and/or adventure travel, all while keeping each client’s connections to the LGBT community in mind.

The luxury leisure travel site also includes Tzell Travel Group career opportunities, information on the NEXT program – an initiative geared toward recruiting, reeducating and retaining young professionals – and will feature a partner of the month, a captivating blog, recurring offers and contests.

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About Tzell Travel Group:

With annual sales of $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 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.

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