Tzell – Internova Travel Group

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.

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 $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

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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.

www.Tzell.com

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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.

www.Tzell.com

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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.

www.Tzell.com

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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.

www.Tzell.com

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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.

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.

www.Tzell.com

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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.

www.Tzell.com

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Longtime Tzell agent Nancy Mieses recognized for her foster care advocacy.

New York, NY (February 18, 2015) — Today, Tzell Travel Group is pleased to publicly announce that it bestowed its second annual Tzell Humanitarian Award upon longtime Tzell agent Nancy Mieses. As an ambassador for the public foster care system within the New York Tri-State Area, Mieses has devoted her personal life to caring for children in need. Mieses has been a Tzell travel agent since 1999, and as part of its recognition for her efforts, Tzell has made a donation to honor her.

After Mieses’ three children left home to attend college, she had a desire to open her home to young people in need of a safe and stable environment. As a foster parent, she has cared for a number of children who were abused, neglected, or at risk for potential abuse. After months of caring for a newborn baby girl, Mieses and her husband developed such a strong and loving bond that they took the necessary steps to formally adopt her. In addition, Mieses and her husband currently care for an eight year-old foster child, as well as Mieses’ handicapped sister who lives with her family.

“Nancy is the perfect person to receive Tzell’s second annual Humanitarian Award. Her heart of gold radiates throughout Tzell headquarters. Whether Nancy knows it or not, she constantly encourages me and others to be better persons,” said Tzell CEO Barry Liben. “Nancy is incredibly giving of her time, energy and affection and is very well-respected among her peers. It’s a privilege and an honor to know her, and we would like to thank Nancy and honor her for all that she does in her community.”

“My mother is the one who taught me what it means to be a humanitarian. I believe it’s good to be good, and that’s a lesson I teach to my children,” said Mieses. “Helping kids is a true passion of mine. Children in the foster care system go through so much; helping these children and bringing them into my home is very much second nature for me. I feel so humbled to have received the Tzell Humanitarian Award and lucky to be part of the Tzell family – a group that supports me in everything I do.”

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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.

www.Tzell.com

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New York, NY (April 1, 2015) – A branch of Tzell Travel Group, New York-based First in Service Travel (F1S) – known for its high profile clientele in finance, fashion, entertainment, media, and technology – has officially opened its Miami office on 1110 Brickell Ave. The move is the first step in forging the agency’s major expansion plans into Latin America, as well as Spain, over the next three years.

F1S CEO and co-founder Fernando Gonzalez explains, “When we founded F1S 24 years ago, our first clients were corporations doing business throughout Latin America and Spain. As the agency grew, the global corporate interest in Latin America has also exploded. Today we’re the leading New York-based corporate travel specialists to the Latin market. Establishing roots in Miami puts an indelible stamp on our commitment.”

The Miami office is run by Gary Oakley, a local veteran with more than 17 years of experience in the travel industry.

Gonzalez adds, “Our obsession with service is paying off. By constantly looking for ways to better serve our clients – like offering VIP perks and expanding in key markets – we gain trust and loyalty. These have always been essential ingredients to our company’s success.”

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 finance, fashion, entertainment, media, and technology. Sister and brother entrepreneurs Erika Reategui and Fernando Gonzalez founded First in Service in 1991 from a family work ethic: service first. Since then, the company has built an award-winning team in New York, Los Angeles, Miami, 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 @1stinService or visit on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/FirstinServiceTravel.

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

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In partnership with the United States Customs and Border Protection, Tzell Travel Group is making it easier for travelers to complete their Global Entry application process.

New York, NY (June 2, 2015) — New York-based Tzell Travel Group, in partnership with the United States Customs and Border Protection (CBP), will provide travelers with convenient access to complete their enrollment in Global Entry. On June 12 and August 13, 2015, Tzell and the USCBP will expedite the process by allowing travelers to complete their Global Entry interview process at Tzell’s Manhattan office located at 119 West 40th Street, 14th floor. Global Entry is a program that offers frequent travelers expedited customs security clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers; typically participants are required to travel to a participating airport – such as JFK or Newark – to complete the interview process.

“Simplifying the travel experience is a big part of what Tzell does for its clients,” said Barry Liben, CEO of Tzell Travel Group. “Our unique partnership with the USCBP allowed many more Tzell clients to participate in our first Global Entry event of the year in April without having to go to Newark, JFK or LaGuardia airports. Due to the overwhelming response from this and previous events in past years, and to accommodate the significant demand for such personalized service, Tzell will be conducting two additional Global Entry events for clients who previously signed up to participate in the program.”

“Global Entry allows U. S. Customs and Border Protection officers to focus more on law enforcement and less on administrative tasks which provides better security and more efficient entry for citizens and visitors,” said Robert E. Perez, Director of CBP’s New York Field Operations. “Global Entry provides seamless entry for our trusted travelers, which is something CBP values as a high priority.”

Travelers who have been accepted into the Global Entry program, re-enter the U.S. by simply using automated kiosks at 46 major airports across the United States, Aruba, Canada and Ireland, rather than completing customs forms on the airplane and waiting in line for customs approval. According to CBP, travelers must be pre-approved for the Global Entry program and they must complete an online application, pay the $100 non-refundable application fee, undergo a rigorous background check, and complete an in-person interview before enrollment.

“Tzell clients truly appreciate the expedited customs process that Global Entry provides, but making a special trip to the airport to complete the interview process can be cumbersome,” added Liben. “Through Tzell’s initiative, our clients simply come to our Manhattan office to complete the brief but required interview for the Global Entry program. Once approved, they can also take advantage of the TSA Precheck, which will expedite their airport security screening each time they travel in the United States.”

For more information on the June 12 and August 13 Global Entry events at Tzell Travel Group’s headquarters, call 212-944-2121.

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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.

www.Tzell.com

The post Tzell Travel Group Brings Global Entry Program to Manhattan; Clients No Longer Need to Trek to Airports to Complete the Process appeared first on Travel Leaders Group.

One year after its launch, NEXT, the joint initiative by Protravel and Tzell continues to draw in young professionals by launching larger, more frequent classes

New York, NY (July 23, 2015) —NEXT – the innovative initiative jointly launched in 2014 by Tzell Travel Group and Protravel International – is celebrating its one year anniversary this week by launching a new class of eight candidates. On the heels of NEXT’s first completed class at Protravel followed by a second at Tzell, demand for the program continues to grow as the initiative has been highly successful in recruiting, reeducating and retaining new talent, particularly millennials, for both of the luxury-focused travel agencies. To meet the increased demand, NEXT has now added a trainer to the team and the program has moved into a permanent classroom, allowing NEXT to continue to expand and fulfill its plan of including regularly scheduled classes, beginning in 2016.

“The incredible success of the NEXT initiative has allowed us to move ahead quickly in our expansion of the program, recruiting more talented individuals, and providing all the necessary tools to allow more young professionals to start on the path to a very successful career in the travel industry,” said Barry Liben, CEO of both Protravel and Tzell. “It’s wonderful to help young professionals gain experience and firsthand knowledge about the exciting and, many times, glamorous world of luxury travel. Our NEXT participants also gain a deep appreciation for the industry through hands-on training and being paired with an experienced agent mentor.”

“We set out to attract young professionals to join the world of luxury travel and found an enormous pool of talent. While the interest was certainly there, the issue was training – these talented individuals could not get a foot in the door without previous experience or formal hands-on training,” said Marisa Costa, Director of NEXT. “The success of our first two sessions highlights the immense need in the industry for a robust program training and fostering new talent. Thanks to the recognition of NEXT’s success within both Protravel and Tzell, we’re thrilled that their commitment is allowing us to accommodate larger, more frequent classes of eager young professionals.”

The expansion of the NEXT program will feature a permanent classroom space located at Tzell Travel’s headquarters in Manhattan. Bringing 15 years of industry training experience to the team, the addition of Tzell Travel Group Training Manager Marat Shkandin will allow for the program to operate on a set schedule in 2016. Those interested in applying for a highly-coveted spot in the program will be able to apply in advance for a specific start date beginning next year. Classes combine students for both Protravel and Tzell, with plans for candidates to be placed equally between the two companies upon successful completion of the program.

“Hiring a professional who completed the NEXT program has exceeded all my expectations,” said Eric Hrubant, President of CIRE Travel, a division of Tzell Travel Group. “I expected there to be a learning curve when they showed up for their first day of work, as there is with all new hires. However, their depth of knowledge and understanding of the luxury travel industry, specific partnerships and brands truly blew me away. I couldn’t be happier to have hired someone who completed the NEXT program.”

In addition to the exciting growth of the core training program, NEXT will also be launching a two week industry professional transition program. This program will target and cater to travel industry professionals who want to transition into becoming a successful travel agent.

“We regularly receive inquiries from travel professionals who are looking to leverage their industry knowledge to become a travel agent,” continued Costa. “The travel industry is filled with talented professionals who have valuable experience and don’t need to start from square one to build a successful travel business. By creating an accelerated program, we will be able to utilize their experience and provide top-notch talent for our companies.”

Individuals interested in learning more about the NEXT program can visit www.mytravelagentlife.com.

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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.

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.

The post NEXT Initiative Celebrates One Year, Doubles in Class Size appeared first on Travel Leaders Group.

Visa’s Online Campaign Series Highlights Experiences of Five New York City-Area Businesses

New York, NY (July 31, 2015) — New York-based Tzell Travel Group announced today that Eric Hrubant, President of its CIRE Travel division, is prominently featured by financial services giant Visa in its new series of long-form commercials that highlight how it’s benefiting small business owners. Hrubant is one of five businesspersons from New York City featured in the year-long “Last Check Ever” campaign, which is now live via Visa’s small business social media and digital channels. The one-minute-forty-second commercial may be viewed here.

“While my team and I prefer working behind the scenes to make travel far easier for our clients, Visa provided us an excellent opportunity to briefly encapsulate our story and discuss how they make it even easier for my team to deliver for our clients,” explained Hrubant. “I’m particularly pleased that Visa chose to showcase the vibrancy of travel agencies, which are not just thriving, but booming. Visa’s small business services – coupled with the incredible tools and resources provided by Tzell – are enabling my team to focus our attention on our clients’ needs.”

Hrubant credits networking within the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce in helping him land the opportunity; CIRE Travel is one of over 10,000 members of the chamber. That led to his being approached by a booking agency for an audition and subsequent invitation to shoot the commercial at a Brooklyn studio on May 1, although that was no guarantee that his commercial segment would be selected.

“By being authentic to who he is as a travel professional and businessman, Eric Hrubant was ultimately selected for the Visa spot,” noted Tzell Travel Group CEO Barry Liben. “We’re thrilled that he is representing CIRE Travel and the entire Tzell organization so capably.”

“The power of networking is extremely important as evidenced by my experience with the Manhattan Chamber of Commerce – you just never know where an opportunity to build your business can come from,” noted Hrubant, whose personal goal is to someday have the largest division within Tzell. “It’s fundamentally important to spend and invest in your business as we continually do. The dividends it pays are worth every penny.”

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About Tzell Travel Group:

www.Tzell.com

The post New Visa Small Business Campaign Focuses on Eric Hrubant and CIRE Travel, a Division of Tzell Travel Group appeared first on Travel Leaders Group.

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

New York, NY (August 5, 2015) — New York-based Tzell Travel Group is pleased to announce that its employees recently raised more than $27,000 and collected over 1,000 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 West 40th Street. In addition, Tzell agents and staff members volunteered at Food Bank For New York City and further increased their donations 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 9 in a concentrated effort to reduce hunger. Tzell is a Travel Leaders Group company.

“Supporting our local community is part of who we are at Tzell. Our agents and staff enthusiastically championed this initiative, and I’m proud to announce that this year’s Day of Giving efforts more than doubled the amount of food collected, and significantly increased the amount of money raised compared to last year,” said Tzell CEO Barry Liben. “The summer months are particularly slow for most food shelves, and Food Bank For New York City estimates that 2.6 million New Yorkers experience difficulty affording food for themselves and their families. We are proud that the food and money we collected will provide an estimated 220,000 meals in our local community.”

Across Travel Leaders Group, the concerted Day of Giving efforts led to the collection of more than 1,600 bags of food and toiletry items, weighing in at 12,225 pounds – over six tons. In addition to the physical donations, Travel Leaders Group employees also donated their time. Approximately 340 employees and travel agents volunteered 899 hours, or more than 22 works weeks, with local food banks across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom and Uruguay. Approximately $70,000 was contributed to Feeding America and local food banks.

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.

www.Tzell.com

The post New York-based Tzell Travel Group Donates More than $27,000 and over 1,000 Pounds of Food to Support Food Bank For New York City appeared first on Travel Leaders Group.

O’Hara Will Remain Involved in the Strategic Direction Of Tzell, as well as Its Sister Companies within Travel Leaders Group Going Forward

New York, NY (August 31, 2015) — Today, it was announced that J.D. O’Hara – who had recently been serving as President of New York-based Tzell Travel Group – was recently promoted to Partner at Certares. While O’Hara’s promotion marks his departure from Tzell, he will continue exploring multiple avenues for the company’s growth, along with that for its parent company Travel Leaders Group.

“J.D. contributed tremendously to Tzell over the last year and half through some very noteworthy accomplishments including a number of key strategic initiatives that we will carry well into the future, some much-needed organizational realignment both internally and throughout our branch network, and, not the least of his feats, an astounding 20% year-over-year growth.” noted CEO Barry Liben. “These achievements have made Tzell stronger and will help us deliver more for our agents and clients. To ensure that Tzell doesn’t skip a beat, I’m thrilled to devote much more of my time to this exceptional business and its agents.”

“Working directly with the Tzell management team since the beginning of 2014 – as well as my previous six years with Travel Leaders Group – has prepared me well for this role to invest capital on behalf of Certares in Travel Leaders and its other portfolio companies,” O’Hara stated. “I look forward to my enhanced role in expanding Travel Leaders Group and its key operating companies, such as Tzell, even further.”

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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.

About Certares:

Certares LP is dedicated to long-term value creation by actively developing our investments. Through effective partnership with the management of our companies and direct alignment with our investors, Certares implements strategic and operational improvements to sustainably generate attractive returns on capital. Flexibility in investment approach and alignment with our business partners are key tenets of Certares’ philosophy. These values distinguish Certares as a preferable partner for organizations seeking to transform their businesses.

Formed in 2012, Certares brings together a team of experienced Private Equity and Travel, Transportation, Hospitality and Payment Sectors veterans with decades of both operational and investment experience. This operational expertise enables Certares to grow their investments and unlock their full potential. Certares’ permanent capital structure and sector focus allows for flexibility in structuring transaction solutions and gives partners and sellers freedom to achieve their objectives while allowing Certares to move at unparalleled speed.

Certares is headquartered in New York, NY.

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Travel Leaders Group Annual Sales Grew from $7 Billion to $20 Billion under Liben;Chacko Brings 20 Years of Travel Industry Leadership to Travel Leaders Group

Plymouth, MN (September 9, 2015) – Today, Travel Leaders Group is announcing the transition in its top leadership as Barry Liben, who has served as Chief Executive Officer for the $20 billion travel agency company since 2008, hands over the helm to travel industry veteran Ninan Chacko, CTC. Liben is returning to Tzell Travel Group – a Travel Leaders Group company – as its President and CEO, while maintaining his position on the Board of Directors for the latter. As Chief Executive Officer of Travel Leaders Group and as its new Board member, Chacko is returning to the travel industry after six years as CEO of PR Newswire, the global leader of communications and global marketing solutions.

“After very thoughtful consideration – particularly during the last few months when I’ve been reminded on a daily basis just how much I’ve loved returning to my roots at Tzell, where I first began in 1977 – I’ve decided to step away from my role as CEO for all of Travel Leaders Group and instead devote my energies and attention exclusively to Tzell as its CEO,” stated Liben in a message to Travel Leaders Group employees. “I am thrilled to pass the torch of this exceptionally strong enterprise to a new Chief Executive Officer: Ninan Chacko. Ninan will add a fresh, new dimension to Travel Leaders Group that will enable us to reach greater heights. While he’s provided respected, visionary and innovative leadership to PR Newswire since 2009, what makes Ninan a particularly strong fit for Travel Leaders Group are his two decades of experience in various leadership positions within the travel and transportation industry.”

“Since its creation in 2008, Travel Leaders Group has become a recognized and powerful force within the travel industry as the largest traditional travel agency group, garnering significant respect while building a strong reputation,” noted Chacko. “After watching the spectacular rise of Travel Leaders Group, it is a distinct honor to take the reins from Barry Liben, whose leadership we salute today. I look forward to working with Travel Leaders Group’s extraordinary leadership team in writing the next chapter for this organization.”

Before joining PR Newswire in 2009, Chacko served as Chief Commercial Officer of Worldspan. In that role, he was responsible for sales, marketing, operations, service and support activities for customers and partners in over 60 countries, including Tzell, Travel Leaders Corporate and Travel Leaders Franchise Group. Chacko was also a founding member of the buyout consortium management team that acquired Worldspan from Delta Air Lines, Northwest Airlines and American Airlines, and served as Chief Commercial Officer until its sale to Travelport.

Prior to Worldspan, Chacko spent more than 13 years with Sabre Holdings. As Senior Vice President, he led the development, launch and operation of Sabre’s hotel merchant business in the travel agency channel and the creation and execution of Sabre’s consortia network strategy to influence and monetize travel retailing. During his time with Sabre, he served in a variety of leadership roles, including Senior Vice President of Marketing and Strategy for Sabre Travel Network and Senior Vice President of Global Services. Chacko began his career with System One Corporation before joining American Airlines.

“With his exceptional travel agency knowledge and track record of product and technological innovation, we are delighted to bring Ninan Chacko into Travel Leaders Group. His unique experience and knowledge will prove invaluable in driving further success for all the companies within our Group.” said Michael Batt, Founder and Chairman of Travel Leaders Group since its inception in 2008. “I also want to personally extend my deepest appreciation to my great friend and colleague Barry Liben, with whom I’ve enjoyed building Travel Leaders into the undisputed leader in the traditional travel agency segment. Under Barry’s leadership all our brands have flourished and grown in the United States and the United Kingdom, and in addition we have also expanded into Australia, Canada, Greece and Ireland. Barry and I will continue to serve on the Board of Travel Leaders Group, along with Ninan, in helping him and the rest of the Board take the company to the next level.”

In thanking Travel Leaders Group employees for their contributions, Liben wrote, “It has been a true honor and privilege to serve as CEO. I’m very proud of the legacy I’m leaving behind, because it’s a shared one with you. I recognize that it’s thanks to individuals like you – along with our 45,000 travel agents – that we’ve not only become the leading traditional travel agency company in North America, but also its most respected. Like you, I look forward to contributing to Travel Leaders Group’s continued rise in my ongoing roles both on the Board and at Tzell.”

Travel Leaders Group is a $20 billion powerhouse in the travel industry, comprising approximately 30% of all travel agencies in North America that are wholly-owned, franchised, or member agencies. It’s a leader in both the retail travel agency space and corporate travel, and consistently ranks as one of the top travel companies nationwide.

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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 $20 billion through over 6,500 locations, Travel Leaders Group ranks as one of the industry’s largest traditional travel agency companies.

The post TRAVEL LEADERS GROUP CEO LEADERSHIP TRANSITION: Barry Liben Returns to Tzell Roots; Ninan Chacko, CTC, Is New Travel Leaders Group CEO appeared first on Travel Leaders Group.

Four Tzell Travel Group Agents Earn Place on Travel + Leisure’s 2015 A-List of Top Travel Advisors
Four Tzell Agents receive recognition for their specific areas of travel expertise.

New York, NY (September 22, 2015) — New York-based Tzell Travel Group announced today that four of its agents – Harlan deBell, Kara Bebell, Jody Bear and Ellen LeCompte – have been included on Travel + Leisure’s distinguished 2015 A-List of Top Travel Advisors, which was just released by the influential consumer travel magazine. The Tzell agents were recognized for their specific expertise on various destinations and travel niches. In its introduction of the list, Travel + Leisure notes that the “14th annual A-List showcases the best specialists in the business – the people who have firsthand knowledge of destinations on the rise, can get you into sold-out hotels, and provide the best insider travel tips.”

“The honor of being recognized by Travel + Leisure, an extremely influential publication, demonstrates the top tier service Tzell agents are renowned for providing to clients, always going beyond expectations to provide the highest quality of service,” said Tzell President Barry Liben. “I’d like to personally congratulate Harlan, Kara, Jody and Ellen on being recognized for their expertise, exceptional abilities and commitment for routinely making each travel experience unique and memorable for their clients.”

The sibling duo that make up The Travel Siblings, deBell and Bebell, are once again recognized for their expertise in weddings and honeymoons, as well as now for pet travel. With deep relationships within the global wedding industry – ranging from florist, caterers and confectioners to hoteliers and resorts – the duo have made a name in going the extra mile to make couples dream weddings come true. “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 Resort at Pedregal, in Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. Is your pooch in the ceremony? The siblings are also experts in international pet travel,” explains Travel + Leisure.

Jody Bear, of Bear & Bear Travel returns to the list for her expertise in destination celebrations and family travel. “Bear typically works with a discerning clientele who depend on her to create once-in-a-lifetime commemorative events, so she makes a point of knowing the destinations she’s working with intimately. In preparation for a family of six traveling to South Africa to celebrate Christmas, Bear jumped on a plane to handpick their guides, restaurants, and accommodations. She also specializes in around-the-world travel, often by private jet,” notes Travel + Leisure.

This year Travel + Leisure recognized Ellen LeCompte once again not only for her expertise in travel in the United Kingdom, but France as well. Travel + Leisure noted, “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.”

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About Tzell Travel Group:

www.Tzell.com

The post Four Tzell Travel Group Agents Earn Place on Travel + Leisure’s 2015 A-List of Top Travel Advisors appeared first on Travel Leaders Group.

New Tzell.com feature enables consumers to select agents based on knowledge, expertise, and specialty, as well as by personality and passion for travel.

New York, NY (October 23, 2015) — Today, New York-based Tzell Travel Group, is officially rolling out a new feature of its Tzell.com website – “Agent Showcase” – to begin connecting its talented travel agent experts with prospective clients. Featuring travel agents routinely honored for their unmatched insight, clout and passion by industry leading consumer publications like Condé Nast Traveler and Travel + Leisure, the new Agent Showcase enables travelers to select the agent who meets their needs and to start tapping into their expertise.

“Tzell’s extraordinary travel agents are our heart and soul. We confidently tell our clients, ‘Our agents level of knowledge and skill take you beyond your destination 24/7.’ By adding ‘Agent Showcase’ to Tzell.com, we’re placing our very best front and center with consumers, beginning with our New York and Los Angeles offices,” said Barry Liben, CEO of Tzell Travel Group. “We’re always striving to create better access for clients and agents, and Agent Showcase breaks down barriers and helps develop an instant connection with clients. Clients can immediately access a particular Tzell agent’s expertise and get a feel for their personality, experience and incredible passion for travel.”

Agent Showcase is intrinsically imbued with a true, human touch. Underscoring each participating agent’s experience and specializations are the unique online biographies that feature their responses to actual questions posed. Consumers perusing the site can easily view Tzell agents’ descriptions for why they’re just as passionate about creating extraordinary experiences for their clients as they are about travel itself. These short, engaging bios serve as the first “conversation” in the relationship, connecting consumers with Tzell travel agents before they ever interact via email or phone. Agent Showcase also provides clients with direct access to each travel agent – no call centers or phone menus, just direct emails and phone numbers to connect travelers with their travel expert of choice.

“Because of their tremendous skills, Tzell travel agents’ counsel has resulted in over $2 billion in travel booked just last year with the very top travel partners available,” continued Liben. “The relationships Tzell maintains within the travel industry – coupled with our agents’ experience and expertise – provides our clients with access to exclusive amenities and upgrades, as well as peace of mind. Now it will be even easier, via Agent Showcase, for consumers to take advantage of all Tzell has to offer, starting with our exceptionally talented and passionate travel agents.”

Creating a more friendly and accessible way for clients to connect with travel experts, “Agent Showcase” agent biographies are being continuously uploaded and refreshed. To learn more or find a travel expert, visit Tzell.com/agent-showcase.

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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.

www.Tzell.com

The post Tzell Travel Group Provides Clients with Direct Access to Travel Agent Experts via Online “Agent Showcase” appeared first on Travel Leaders Group.

Among the highlights, recognition for Sonya Aspis and Carol Green for 25 years with Tzell.

New York, NY (November 20, 2015) — New York-based Tzell Travel Group recently held its annual anniversary awards dinner to celebrate and recognize its industry-leading independent travel agents and headquarters staff. The 18th annual anniversary gala was held Friday, November 13, at one of New York City’s most elegant luxury hotels, Lotte New York Palace. Over 150 invited guests attended the celebration where 73 individuals celebrating milestone anniversaries – ranging from five years to 25 – were recognized for their service to Tzell clients.

During the celebration, travel agent Carol Green and Sonya Aspis, Director of Accounting, received the Anniversary Award for excellence and contributions over the past 25 years with Tzell Travel Group. Additionally, travel agents Michael Chieco, Anita Frankel, Peter Green, Salvatore Gurrieo, Rick Lozano, and Adrienne Sands were recognized for their 20 years of unparalleled service to their clients as part of Tzell. Jerry Behrens, Tina Sudaley, and Kristine Taras – members of Tzell’s headquarters team – were also honored for 20 years of exemplary service.

“Every year, I am incredibly proud and humbled to be able to recognize the talent, sacrifice and dedication of our highly-valued travel agents and employees,” said Tzell President and CEO Barry Liben. “It’s because of them that Tzell holds such an esteemed place in the luxury travel marketplace and in the hearts of our clients.”

Liben continued, “While we take one night out of the year to recognize the long-standing achievements of this amazing group of individuals, their contributions are felt throughout our organization, day in and day out. Their passion for our clients is undeniable. I thank each and every one of them for their unmatched service to our clients and for continuing to foster an amazing culture at Tzell that has helped us achieve and maintain our prominent position with the traveling public.”

“Twenty-five years goes by so fast when you love what you do, where you work, and who you work with,” said Carol Green. “Tzell has become my home away from home and a second family. Being a part an organization that empowers us all to focus on serving our clients the best way we know how has allowed me to make my passion a lifelong career. I feel truly lucky to have been with Tzell for all these years.”

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.

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:

www.Tzell.com

The post Tzell Travel Group’s Esteemed Agents Honored during 18th Gala Anniversary Event appeared first on Travel Leaders Group.

As one of the world’s top luxury travel events, ILTM remains one of the industry’s most coveted invitations.

New York, NY (December 4, 2015) — A delegation of 21 from New York-based Tzell Travel Group recently attended the invitation-only International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) convention. The event, exclusively reserved for the world’s premier luxury travel agents, took place November 30 through December 3, at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès in Cannes, France. The contingent of Tzell luxury travel agents and senior executives met with their peers within the travel industry’s premier echelon and shared knowledge about what 2016 has in store for the luxury travel market.

“ILTM is renowned for bringing together the world’s travel elite. We’re proud that Tzell’s stature as one of the industry’s foremost luxury travel agencies only continues to grow as ILTM and other respected, elite organizations seek out our outstanding agents to participate,” said Barry Liben, President and CEO of Tzell Travel Group. “Our clients ultimately benefit from our participation since our attendees are able to forge deeper relationships with some of the leading hoteliers and other luxury suppliers. As our agents further expand their already extensive knowledge of exclusive experiences, they’re able to provide even greater expertise along with extraordinary value to our distinguished clientele.”

Tzell Travel Group was represented by 19 luxury travel agents and two senior executives who received exclusive invitations to attend ILTM:
• Deborah Barth – Brownell Travel, a Branch of Tzell
• Gina Gabbard – Vice President, Leisure Sales, Tzell Travel Group
• Christina Gambini – Vice President, Hotels Program, Tzell Travel Group
• Leigh Gernert – Tzell Travel Group
• Katherine Gould – Brownell Travel, a Branch of Tzell
• Martin Gould – Tzell Travel Group
• Laura Hanaford – Tzell Travel Group
• Alysia Hopper – Brownell Travel, a Branch of Tzell
• Keith Hyatt – Tzell Travel Group
• Jeffrey Kane – Jeffrey’s World of Travel, a Branch of Tzell
• Paula Killon – Tzell Travel Group
• Robin Leggett – Travel Collaborative, a Branch of Tzell
• Patti Lehman – The Travel Agent, a Branch of Tzell
• Jessica Ourisman – Brownell Travel, a Branch of Tzell
• Ron Phillips – Brownell Travel, a Branch of Tzell
• Bob Romano – Your Travel Center, a Branch of Tzell
• Bowden Sarrett – Brownell Travel, a Branch of Tzell
• Marla Schaefer – Leaders in Travel, a Branch of Tzell
• Walter Leroy Twiste – Tzell Park Ave, a Branch of Tzell
• David Waldes – Tzell Travel Group
• Rose Wylie – Travel 100, a Branch of Tzell

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.

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:

www.Tzell.com

The post Tzell Travel Group Sends One of Its Largest Delegations Yet to International Luxury Travel Market in Cannes appeared first on Travel Leaders Group.

tzell-pro-foundation-logo

Charities selected for this year’s drive are Wounded Warriors Family Support, Alzheimer’s NYC and East Side House Settlement.

New York, NY (February 11, 2016) — Today, The Tzell and Protravel Foundation is publicly announcing that its annual charity drive is underway. Proceeds raised by Tzell Travel Group and Protravel International agents and employees, along with donations from the community, will support three exceptional 501(c)(3) organizations. The charities selected for 2016 were chosen by the Foundation’s Board of Directors and include: Wounded Warriors Family Support, Alzheimer’s NYC and East Side House Settlement.

“By combining forces for our annual charity drive, Tzell Travel Group and Protravel International are able to make an even larger impact on the communities we serve as we give back to three wonderful charities that do such important work,” said Tzell Travel Group CEO Barry Liben. “The genuine excitement in our organization surrounding the opportunity to raise significant funds and create a broader awareness for these organizations demonstrates just how committed we are to doing our part to make our communities better.”

“Our colleagues at Protravel International and Tzell Travel Group are the most benevolent group of individuals I have ever had the pleasure to work with,” said Patrick Fragale, President of Protravel International. “While we – as individuals, and as a company – have given back to myriad humanitarian efforts, Protravel is particularly proud to collaborate with Tzell in supporting these causes that have personal meaning to our agents and employees. Through our continuous efforts, we aspire to inspire others to give back to the community, make a change and help others.”

The mission statements from each charitable organization selected as beneficiaries of the 2016 Charity Drive include:

Wounded Warriors Family Support:
The mission of Wounded Warriors Family Support is to “provide support to the families of those who have been wounded, injured or killed during combat operations. The families of our casualties suffer in many ways: some financially, some psychologically.”

Alzheimer’s NYC:
The mission of Alzheimer’s NYC is to “provide compassionate care and life-saving support for the hundreds of thousands of families and individuals affected by Alzheimer’s and related dementias.”

East Side Settlement House:
The mission of East Side Settlement House is to “enrich, supplement and enhance the public school system
and place college within reach of motivated students. They provide services to families in order that other family members may pursue their educational goals. They provide technology and career readiness training to enable students to improve their economic status and lead more fulfilling lives.”

In the past, The Foundation has donated to organizations such as: St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, Habitat for Humanity, Toys for Tots, the Gary Sinise Foundation, Fisher House Foundation, Pancreatic Cancer Research and 4 Paws for Ability.

Those interested in contributing to The Tzell and Protravel Foundation annual charity drive may donate via tzellandprotravelfoundation.com.

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About Tzell Travel Group:

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

About Protravel International 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 close to $1 billion, Protravel is headquartered in New York City and supports 20 locations throughout the United States and the United Kingdom, 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.

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