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.” 

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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

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:

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

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.

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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

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:

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