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Business Travel Featured Travel Tips Vacation Travel

Is a Corporate Travel Incentive Program Right for My Business?

Imagine yourself on the trip of a lifetime with a loved one or a friend. Perhaps you’ve always wanted to visit the beaches of Thailand or marvel at the beauty of Alaskan glaciers. Now imagine your company picking up the tab for the entire trip. That would be amazing, wouldn’t it? These types of employee rewards are often known as corporate travel incentive programs. Developing these programs, with the help of Andavo Meetings & Incentives (AMI), Christopherson Business Travel’s meetings, groups, and incentive travel division, can be a smart business move for several reasons. Keep reading to learn more!

What is Incentive Travel?

Businesses use a corporate travel incentive as a reward for accomplishing a goal. Incentive travel rewards work just like bonuses or other motivational tactics in the workplace. They drive up productivity and reward strong work ethics. For example, a business could offer a travel incentive once an employee hits a certain number of sales or achieves a specific goal. The trips could be purely for vacation or combined with a few company events for a fun work getaway.

Why Use Incentive Travel Programs

When it comes to rewarding your employees for their hard work, you could just give them cash or another type of gift. But vacations provide unique opportunities for employees and even benefits for the company. If you’re looking for some reasons to use corporate travel incentive programs, here are a few:

Perks for Employees

Offering business travel incentive programs to your employees can have a different effect than cash bonuses and gifts. One reason it’s a great choice is that an amazing trip is a special occasion for people. It gives employees something to look forward to. It also gives them an opportunity to travel to places they might not otherwise visit and make memories with a friend, family member, or co-workers.

Once they’ve earned a trip with their hard work, they’ll look back on these memories and can use them as motivation to work toward their next trip. Those winning employees also help motivate other team members who may not have won that particular trip but realize they want to try for a future incentive opportunity because they don’t want to miss out.

Benefits for the Company

Why should you spend time and money establishing corporate travel incentive programs for your employees? You may be surprised to know that establishing such a program can offer a multitude of benefits for your company on top of being a great perk for your employees.

Boost employee engagement – One of the first benefits of establishing a corporate travel incentive program is boosting employee engagement. Giving your employees experiences encourages excitement and can be a powerful way to motivate them.

Strengthen your company as a team – If employees earn a trip together, they are able to get excited about the trip and make plans together. It becomes a focal point and highlight for the year. Earned vacations generate discussion and interest that help to motivate employees.

Draw top talent for your company and retain employees – Employees participating in corporate travel incentive programs experience increased loyalty to their company and have a higher opinion of their workplace. Incentive travel photos are often shared on social media for others to see which enhances your company’s image. When you offer great rewards like these vacation experiences to employees, you establish yourself as a positive company to work for and can generate interest for potential employees. It’s also a great way to retain employees as they work towards their next trip.

Factors to Consider when Deciding on Incentive Travel Programs

When deciding on implementing corporate travel incentive programs, there are a few things to consider. You’ll want to establish a program that delivers on its goals, provides a return on investment, and draws interest and excitement. Consider these following factors when selecting an incentive travel program:

Ask your staff for feedback – Business travel incentive programs only work if your employees want to go on the trips you’ve planned. AMI can help you identify a business travel incentive program that your employees will want to achieve. You can also survey your team members to get ideas for destinations and activities that appeal to them.

Establish the goals of your program – In our exploratory phase, AMI will help you outline clear goals that you’d like the employees to reach in order to achieve the travel reward. Because travel reward programs are an investment, having clear goals allows you to identify and assess your ROI. Keeping employees updated on their progress toward these goals will help boost their motivation to work towards them.

Explore vendors to find the perfect fit – While plenty of incentive travel companies offer packages claiming to take away the hassle of corporate travel planning, not all offerings are the best option for your company’s needs. AMI’s connections around the world deliver access to best-in-class experiences and accommodations, and each incentive trip planned is unique to your goals and objectives.

Request a Corporate Travel Incentive Planning Meeting

AMI’s incentive travel planning begins and ends with your goals, and your people, in mind. Our strategic, personalized approach allows us to focus on the purpose behind your incentive trip and deliver an extraordinary experience your employees will never forget. Visit andavomeetings.com or speak with our planners today for more information.

 

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Business Travel Vacation Travel

Combining A Business Trip With A Family Vacation

Summer is just around the corner. Which means school break, barbecues and outdoor adventures are on the horizon. It’s also the time to start brainstorming and planning family vacations. But did you know that most working Americans rarely use up their paid vacation days? In fact, in 2016 the United States left 429 millions unused days on the table. With numerous studies showing this adverse affect on health, it’s important now more than ever to take a few days for yourself. That may be why a new trend in ‘bleisure’’ travel is taking off – combining an upcoming business trip with a family vacation.

Family vacation during a business trip?  You can’t be serious.

Now before you stress out about all the minor details and how it can be blown off course, read through our 8 tips to combine a business trip with a family vacation and keep it on track.

  1. You’ll ultimately be saving money. Your company is already paying for your round trip ticket and hotel room. It could save you a few hundred dollars or more by using this to your advantage. Bunk up in your hotel room and schedule your return ticket back for a few days later than planned.
  2. Use reward miles or member status to buy additional plane tickets for your family or other upgrades. You may even be able to upgrade to a larger room to more comfortably accommodate everyone.
  3. Define your schedule and any limitations. Let your family know your schedule beforehand and any pressing deadlines or meetings. Be clear that you’ll need space during that time and won’t be available. It may feel harsh at first, but setting expectations early will give you more breathing room later on.
  4. Find a place that caters to everyone’s needs. Look for a hotel/townhouse that provides room for you to work, but also area for kids to play. It could be a pool on-site or fun attractions in the area. Booking a vacation rental, if acceptable in your travel policy, may be a perfect option.
  5. Don’t be afraid to take advantage of kids club or babysitting.
  6. If attending a conference, see if they are giving away family-friendly promotions. We attended a conference recently that was giving away tickets to Disneyland.
  7. Stay a few extra days. Here is where you finally use some of that well-deserved personal time.  What’s the point of being in a new place if you can’t enjoy it, right? Stay in the same area, or adventure out and explore the region.
  8. Contact a leisure travel agent. It might be worth contacting a specialist for special pricing and additional offers. Our leisure division, Andavo Travel, can help point you in the right direction.
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Choice Humanitarian Travel News Vacation Travel

CHOICE Expedition – Tammy’s Story

Christopherson Business Travel is a proud corporate sponsor of CHOICE Humanitarian. In addition to voluntary employee contributions and matching program, Christopherson annually sends a group of employees on a week-long humanitarian expedition. Based out of Salt Lake City, CHOICE Humanitarian works in seven countries to help those in extreme poverty.  Using a village-centered approach, they work to improve quality of life through self-sufficiency.  This year, our group employees visited a small village in the Buena Vista region of Guatemala. Tammy Irvin, a corporate travel advisor from our Alabama office was selected to volunteer on this trip.

Tammy’s story with Choice Humanitarian

The CHOICE Humanitarian expedition to Guatemala is a trip I will never forget. This trip brought out so many emotions in me—laughter, sadness, heartbreak, and amazement. I cannot thank Christopherson Andavo enough for the opportunity to participate.

I arrived to the hustle and bustle of Guatemala City. It was a little overwhelming at first, but our trip leaders made me feel at ease. We were treated to a great meal at a local restaurant and a trip to the Market. Once the rest of the team members arrived, we went to our first stop, a resort called Rio Dulce. There, I met Amy, my roomie for the week and the other Christopherson Andavo team members, along with the other expedition participants. We enjoyed dinner together and had a great time relaxing at the pool.

The next day, we went on a boat ride and then boarded two small buses. I am extremely afraid of heights, so I was not looking forward to this part of the trip. We wound around the mountainous roads and finally, we arrived—to the “drop-over- the-edge-and-you-will-die point.” I got a few heckles, but my fear faded and I was fine.

Finally, we arrived at Sikaab’e. Sikaab’e is a vocational training school in the Polochic Valley. Sikaabe is Q’eqchi for “seek your path.” We were lucky enough to stay in their dorm for the week! The next day we began our work of digging trenches, building chicken coops, and painting the dorm. We took a day to visit with the women in a neighboring village and teach hygiene, while the men bonded with the local soccer team. Every day was an adventure. As the week went by, we slowly realized that you can disconnect, be unplugged, and you will survive.

In short, we ate, laughed, cried, made new friends we will never forget, and helped someone make it through one more day. The trip is actually helping me make it through one more day. I know it’s not what you have, it’s what you give—in whatever way you give it. I have never seen so many happy people—so many people that didn’t have much, but what they had, they were grateful for.

I have a million memories and for that, I am thankful.

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Business Travel Travel Tips Vacation Travel

6 Tips to Relax While Traveling

Are you constantly stressed while traveling for work? Being away from your home and family can easily throw anyone off. Not to mention a completely different schedule than your daily routine. Whether you are new to business travel or an seasoned roadwarrior, many parts of the journey can leave you feeling anxious.  Knowing how to relax while traveling is an important but often overlooked variable of business trips.

Tricks to help you relax while traveling:

Plan ahead 

Visualizing where you’ll be, what you will be wearing and events you will be attending can establish a schedule and even control. Before you head out the door, spend a few minutes researching. Knowing the address of your hotel and where it’s located will eliminate a few harried minutes at the airport. Or if you are attending a conference, download the schedule beforehand and plan out which sessions you’d like to see. Going in with a game plan might just help keep you confident and ready for other experiences.

Don’t over-schedule yourself 

Speaking of scheduling your time, try not to overbook your day. Factor things like jet lag, amount of sleep, work deadlines, etc. before committing to additional plans.

Unplug

Though it can seem impossible, try to have a few intervals during the day to unplug from work. If you can’t do that, even 15 minutes before going to sleep can recharge you for the next day.

Wellness

Make sure to take care of your health while on the road to help melt away the stress. Take advantage of hotel wellness programs, hit the gym, or grab some healthy snacks to offset an unhealthy traveling diet.

Family Pictures 

If you are missing your loved ones at home, save pictures of them on the background of your phone or computer. Seeing your family members may bring a smile to your face as you go through long days of meetings.

Save time for a vacation 

Our last tip is to take a vacation when you are done with work travel. Whether a full vacation or just a weekend ‘bleisure’ trip can open your eyes to a new place. Connect with a travel advisor at Andavo Travel, Christopherson’s leisure travel division, to plan a trip for complete relaxation.

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Travel News Vacation Travel

Add Wellness Travel to your Business Travel

I recently came across this article from our luxury travel consortium, Virtuoso, about new wellness travel trends.  I hadn’t heard of many of them (although plenty of our Andavo Travel advisors specialize in wellness travel), and found them fascinating.  Perhaps for a stressed-out business traveler, one of these wellness trends may be just the ticket for your next vacation.

Wellness Travel ideas for business travelers

Hygge

Pronounced “hoo-gah”, this Danish concept is catching popularity. Roughly meaning “the pursuit of coziness” – it’s an established time to curl up with a good book and hot mulled wine. In wellness travel, this could be stepping away from the chaos. Enroll in forest walks, classes in reading or writing haiku, watercolor classes, and alpine treks.

Conscious Eating

Sometimes the food is the highlight of a vacation. In our society of diets and fads, it’s easy to feel guilty about indulging, even when away. Conscious eating is less about sticking to a regime, and more about being mindful. The focus is instead on where food comes from, how it’s produced, how your body will respond to it, and if it’s the best choice for you.

 

Digital Detox

Staying connected is becoming more and more important these days. With emails, social media, news feeds etc, it can be impossible to get away. Hence, the latest in wellness trends, digital detox. Resorts offering a digital detox often ban technology in public areas, and some don’t offer Wi-Fi at all. Other places require guests to surrender their devices upon arrival, returning them only after the program or stay is complete.  They’ve found that guests sleep better and are more present  overall.

Mindful Meditation

Meditation is practiced around the world, but it has recently reached critical mass stateside, with apps zooming to the top of the Apple App Store best-seller list and pop-up, pop-in studios sprouting across the country to help busy people calm their minds.

Whatever the individual practice, the benefits of meditation are grounded in scientific fact: A recent study reported that mindfulness meditation provided a cure for pain relief, while devotees report reduced stress, clearer thinking, and diminished anxiety.

High-Tech Wellness

These spas blow the traditional spa out of the water.  Focused on identifying and addressing chronic health concerns,they use advanced technology to do it. Some use stem-cell biotechnology to help treat autoimmune diseases. Or full-day medical intakes that incorporate a body composition analysis, blood draw, and metabolic rate test. Vitamin deficiencies, allergies, and food intolerances can be spotted and treated, while more pervasive conditions have a chance to be identified and addressed through a combination of traditional and holistic treatments.

For guests suffering from persistent but vague ailments that have eluded diagnosis or treatment, high-tech wellness facilities are the perfect place to drill down and get to the root of what ails you.

Equine Therapy

Horses have long been recognized as therapeutic for those working through trauma or emotional issues. Many luxury resorts have started incorporating equine therapy programs as a source of creativity and connection. Some programs focus more on communication rather than riding. Popular as team-building exercises, they facilitate better listening and communication, while also reflecting human behavior. Other popular options include painting classes on the live canvas of the horse, to express emotions and center energy.

No matter how you de-stress, there is a wellness option out there for you. If interested if finding your own relaxing vacation away, please contact our Andavo Travel advisers.

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Business Travel Vacation Travel

How to Turn Your Business Trip into Your Next Vacation

Have you recently taken a whirlwind business trip to an amazing destination only to be stuck inside for meetings? The views of sandy beaches or a vibrant city you have through the windows of your meeting room, hotel, or whirring by in a taxi should not be missed! Though it can be frustrating, don’t lose up hope.

Tips to turn your business trip that could turn it into your future vacation

Accommodations  

You get to see firsthand an accommodation option. If you have enjoyed your stay at the hotel then you may already have a lead on where to stay again. If not, ask around if people are enjoying where they are staying. You may find another option you did not know existed.

Networking

Networking is all about getting to know people but sometimes it is hard to come up with topics to get started. What is a more perfect way to start a conversation at a meeting than to ask if they have been to the city before or something fun they got to do there? It will give you some ideas and a great introduction topic.

Location

Location, location, location. We have all heard the phrase and it really is important! Does the location you are staying in hold some appeal for what you want to do at the destination? Or would you rather stay somewhere more central to activities you think would be enjoyable? Taking note can help decide where exactly you want to end up on your return.

You may be working but it does not mean you can’t be planning some relaxation for the future! Connect with a travel adviser at Andavo Travel, Christopherson’s leisure travel division, to plan a trip for all the things you missed seeing and more.

 

 

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Travel News Vacation Travel

London Vacation Recommendations

My family recently returned from an amazing spring break vacation visiting London and Paris.  Having visited these cities before, we planned the trip through the eyes of our teenage son- mixing culture, history, and Harry Potter.

Our Hotel In London

A great hotel in a convenient location was key to our itinerary. That’s why we chose  Anthenaeum Hotel and Residences. Recently renovated, it’s located in Mayfair overlooking Green Park. The hotel is also close to Buckingham Palace and St. James Palace. It was truly an excellent choice for us in London. The hotel rooms were quiet and provided five star amenities with beautiful views.  The onsite restaurant, Galivan, is the latest restaurant from Michelin star rated brothers, Chris and Jeff Galvin. It has an inviting atmosphere and delicious meals, including afternoon tea and all day dining.  We also enjoyed restaurants in charming Shepherds Market, which is just blocks from the hotel.

Events In London

Another great resource for this trip was our Virtuoso partner, Sincerely Paul.  Paul was my hero in locating sold out tickets in London. This included the critically important WB Studio Tour – The Making of Harry Potter. He helped me avoid a near parental fail for not securing tickets months in advance.  We look forward to working with Paul on our next visit to enjoy additional experiences beyond the city.

Working in the travel industry has a few perks and in the case of this trip, that was working with exceptional travel professionals in our organization that directed my travel plans and put my family on course for a memorable experience together.

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Business Travel Travel Tips Vacation Travel

Why Business Travelers Should Take Vacation

I’m just going to say it. Americans don’t take enough vacation. I understand though, I’m guilty of the same thing. Maybe you’re vying for a raise or proving your worth as an underdog. Add on an economy bouncing back from a recession, and Americans often feel guilty for taking time for themselves. But, did you know that we as a nation left 429 million unused days on the table last year? That’s a lot. Also, those unused vacation days simply gives money back to the employer. That’s a total of $224 billion that goes straight back to the company’s wallet. That’s your hard-earned time!

This issue goes further than just getting what you deserve. Taking a vacation, or even just a few days off, can positively influence your health and wellbeing. And conversely, not taking time to relax can cause health issues.

How it affects your health

Overwork and heart disease is scientifically, quantifiably correlated. In a well renowned study analyzed in 1991 but beginning in 1948, found that women homemakers who took vacation once every six years or less had nearly twice the risk of developing heart attacks or fatal heart problems than those who took time off at least twice a year. Another research study, spanning 50 years and published in 2012, found that a ten-hour-or-more workday increased the risk of coronary heart risk by 80% in both sexes. The researchers correlated the health issues with prolonged exposure to psychological stress.

Not surprisingly, this psychological stress can also effect mental health. In 2012, data was collected and analyzed from another prolonged study called Whitehall II. The Finnish Institute of Occupations Health found that people who work more than 11 hours (compared to those working 7-8 hours a day) were twice as likely to have a major depressive episode, even without previous mental health issues.

Additionally, the same Finnish Institute in a different study found that people who work  55-hours-a-week, as opposed to 40 hours, demonstrated lower cognitive function, poor vocabulary and reasoning skills. Taking your deserved time off can save you from serious and lasting physical and mental health issues.

Taking vacations actually helps with productivity

Conversely, when you do take time off, you will likely return to work more refreshed and eager to get the job done. This is something that we’ve known for years. And mostly likely, so does your upper management. Happy employees, given time to relax and let their minds wander, are often more productive in the long run.

Larger companies are beginning to change their policies, ensuring their employees get the break they need. Arianna Huffington, from the Huffington Post, recently developed an opt-in vacation email policy. They had previously made it clear that no one is expected to check work email or voicemail during time off or the weekends. Even with this policy they found employees working away during their time out of the office. So they developed their own software that will automatically delete or archive all incoming email during their worker’s vacation time. Their email additionally will then send an auto-reply, asking the sender to either resend the email when the person is back in the office or ask them to reach out to someone else. Though this is an opt-in feature, and I imagine those that truly need it will never use it, it exemplifies the work-life balance attitude that American has lost.

Hopefully your workplace understands the value of taking time off. Not only does it lower stress levels, defend against health concerns and make your more productive in the long run, it’s your hard earned time! Find out more information or how to discuss these points with your workplace at Project: Time Off.

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Business Travel Guides Travel Tips Vacation Travel

Travel Packing List For Dummies: Use Carry-on Luggage For EVERY Trip

Passengers gathering at the gate prior to their boarding time is strange to me. My first thought is often, ‘why stand in line before you are called, cutting into time that could be used for work, a preflight meal, catching up on a phone call?’ But then I remember that these travelers, like me, are terrified of not finding a space for their bag on the plane. I pride myself on using the same international sized carry-on for every trip, no matter how long. In fact, I wrote a blog on my favorite packing tips a few years ago.  Since I wrote this, I’ve continued traveling for business and leisure and know even more about packing light. I’ve discovered a few easy tips that are especially helpful as we move into the cooler months.

Carry-on packing tips for business and leisure travelers

1) Invest in packing cubes. They not only help you separate your clothes, but they really do keep everything compact. They are especially useful for sweaters!
2) Boot season is upon us and while they look great, knee-high boots can take up an entire suitcase. If boots are part of your wardrobe, wear them on the plane to save space.
3) Try wearing items that you have packed a few times during the same trip. A scarf or tie can really transform an outfit, and nobody will even notice that you had worn it the previous day.
4) If you plan to use the hotel gym, invest in a good workout outfit that is made of nylon. This material gets really small when folded and you can even roll the items and store them inside your workout shoes.
5) If you buy your cosmetics from a mall department store, do so when you can get a promotional gift. The bags that come with these gifts are often the perfect size for travel and the samples are usually travel sized.

Overall, I’ve learned that even with the stressful pre-boarding line, carry-on luggage is the best option for plane travel. Especially if you have an established packing routine with usable tips and tricks.

Looking for more helpful tips on business travel packing? Check out our other blog posts:

Christopherson Business Travel is a corporate travel management company. We’ve worked passionately for more than 60 years to bring travel solutions to busy businesses. Learn more about our specialty travel technology or consultative services that save our clients time and money.

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Travel News Vacation Travel

Create Memories and Celebrate Life’s Milestones with Travel

Cancun-Dec-2013-090
Cancun, Mexico

What do you get the guy who turns sixty and has more ball caps and tee shirts than he knows what to do with? How about a special trip to a sandy beach destination?

Of all the destinations around the world that we have visited, my husband’s favorite place to go is Cancun, Mexico. So, this past December, I made the arrangements for us to stay at an all-inclusive, adults-only resort on the fabled white sand beaches of Cancun. While the temperature in our home location of Salt Lake City was in the 20s and 30s, we were enjoying the sun and sand with temperatures in the mid 80s.

This isn’t the first time that we’ve traveled to Mexico in the first part of December, which also happens to be low season. One year we took the whole extended family: husbands, wives, and grandkids. It was a gift that replaced of a few years worth of Christmas presents, but we had a vacation of memories to share with our loved ones.

That trip to Tahiti for your 40th birthday, or an Alaskan cruise for Mom and Dad’s 50th wedding anniversary: those memories will last forever.

Contact an Andavo Travel advisor today and take all the stress out of planning that memorable trip for your special celebration.

Andavo Travel is the leisure travel division of Christopherson Business Travel, providing clients with world-class service through excellence, trust, integrity, loyalty, family, community, and caring.

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Business Travel Vacation Travel

15 Amazing Complimentary Travel Perks at Virtuoso Hotels

Local seafood is part of the tasting menu at Ecuador’s Casa Gangotena, a Virtuoso property.
Local seafood is part of the tasting menu at Ecuador’s Casa Gangotena, a Virtuoso property.

Christopherson Business Travel and the company’s leisure division, Andavo Travel, have been a valued member of the Virtuoso luxury travel consortium for more than 16 years. With nearly 9,000 elite travel specialists from more than 335 agencies in 25 countries, Virtuoso is the world’s most exclusive network of travel advisors. So exclusive, in fact, that only 1% of all travel agencies are invited to join.

Although we are an independently owned and operated travel agency, we have a world of resources at our fingertips through the Virtuoso network, which opens doors and provides access to sites and events not available to the general public.

When you book a Virtuoso hotel or resort through a travel agency that’s a Virtuoso member, you’ll get access to complimentary amenities, regardless of whether you are traveling for business or pleasure.

Quite often, these free amenities are daily breakfast, upgrade at time of booking (subject to availability), early check-in/late check-out (subject to availability), and one other individualized amenity of the hotel’s choosing. Curious about what one of those individualized amenities might be? Check out this Virtuoso article that outlines “15 Amazing Complimentary Travel Perks at Virtuoso Hotels.”

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Business Travel Vacation Travel

Destination Spotlight: Jordan

Now that the holidays are over, many people spend January and February planning out their vacation travel for the year with their Andavo Travel advisor.  May I recommend a visit to Jordan in 2016?  I just got back in December from spending a week in Jordan, where I toured all the great historical places the country has to offer. I was highly impressed and can’t recommend it enough.

My favorite spot was Petra which is a UNESCO world heritage site and was named one of the New 7 Wonders of the World in 2007. This archaeological city in southern Jordan is famous for it’s rock-cut architecture. There are almost 900 different buildings, the Treasury being the most famous. You could easily spend two days walking around all the ruins as the area is very large.

When arriving in Jordan there is a visa charge of 40 Dinar or almost $60.00 USD. This visa charge is waived for people booked through a tour operator that stay at least three nights in Jordan. The airport is approximately 45 minutes from the city of Amman. I would recommend spending two nights in Amman where you can easily visit the citadel, amphitheater, and the ancient city of Jerash where you can walk among the ruins of the Greco-Roman city, Gerasa. It is sometimes referred to as the Pompeii of the Middle East because of it’s size and excavations.

We drove to Wadi Rum and took a jeep ride in the desert sands. We visited the site where TE Lawrence, a British archaeologist and diplomat, tried to help with the Arab revolt against Turkey. His experiences led to the making of the movie, “Lawrence of Arabia”. There we visited several Bedouin camps where you can spend a night in the desert and view the stars and then the next day ride out of camp on a camel.

The Dead Sea was our last stop before heading home. There are several resorts where you can spend time relaxing in their spas or floating in the Dead Sea. The main resorts are the Jordan Valley Marriott Resort & Spa, Kempinski Hotel Ishtar, Mövenpick Resort & Spa Dead Sea, and Crowne Plaza Dead Sea where they have a huge spa area – one of the nicest I have ever seen. When you are at the Dead Sea, you put mud on your body before you get into the water. The black mud is rich in minerals good for maintaining healthy, supple skin – but they only want you to float around in the Dead Sea for 15 minutes due to the high salt content in the water, and they have someone there to remind you of that.

The country of Jordan has amazing Mediterranean food, jaw-dropping historical sites to visit, and warm, friendly people. I felt very safe while I was there and highly recommend it as a great destination to visit.

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Business Travel Travel Tips Vacation Travel

Tips for staying in shape while traveling

business travel fitness tipsHere we go again. The holidays probably added five or ten pounds and now it’s the New Year and all of us road warriors are back to traveling every other week. But how are we ever going to get those pounds off and stay in shape?

Here’s the answer: easy-to-follow exercise routines you can do on the road. They will not only help you stay in shape but keep you alert despite the stresses of business travel. With long haul travel especially, maintaining fitness will go a long way to staying fresh and clear.

Click Here for an In-Flight Fitness Workout

Click Here for 18 Exercises for Healthy Flying

Wishing you happy, safe, and healthy travels for 2016!!

 

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Travel News Vacation Travel

Give the Gift of Travel

What gift could be more unique and memorable than the opportunity to discover a fascinating part of the world? Give the special person in your life something they will treasure for a lifetime – the gift of travel.

Gift of travelHonestly, do you remember every gift you received for Christmas last year or for your birthday? I dare say most of us would not. But do you remember that last vacation you took with your family or friends? I am sure you do. Memories last forever.

Just imagine receiving a gift for a cruise, a fishing trip to Alaska, a perfect island escape, or an adventurous trek on the Swiss Alps. There are limitless vacation possibilities. A trip of a lifetime will be cherished and remembered forever.

Travel gift certificates make an ideal gift for any occasion such as an anniversary, a birthday, Christmas, retirement gift, graduation, or a wedding gift. They are great incentive gifts for a corporation to give to their well-deserving employees.

It is easy to purchase a gift certificate from Andavo Travel, the vacation division of Christopherson Business Travel. Call 866-327-7600 or email vacations@andavotravel.com to make your purchase. Then, our well-traveled, experienced travel consultants will make it easy and seamless for the recipient to plan their choice of vacation.

Give the gift of making memories.

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Business Travel Travel Technology Vacation Travel

Offline Apps for Summer Road Trips

Road trippers can still use these apps offline, saving on roaming charges or staying on the right road even when service isn't available.
Road trippers can still use these apps offline to save on roaming charges or when service isn’t available.

With summer winding down, now’s the time to plan those last minute getaways. In fact, I’m planning a wonderful road trip to Telluride, Colorado for a friend’s wedding this month. So in honor of the great summer road trip, I thought I’d share a few apps to help others on their way and enjoy their trip even more. Many of these suggestions also work offline, which is helpful when you hit a stretch of road without mobile phone service. Happy Travels!

1. Maps.me

Maps.me provides detailed, offline maps for mobile devices. It’s great for when you are in a dead spot.

2. Avenza

Avenza is another handy offline app with scanned maps of national parks, hiking trails, transit routes, and odd ball sites.

3. Triposo

Download your destination guide ahead of time from Triposo and you will have a slick offline travel guide to top attractions, places to eat and sleep, and local time and weather.

4. Overdrive and Audible

Need entertainment for the hours of driving ahead? Overdrive allows you to borrow eBooks, audiobooks, music, and video titles from your local library. Audible is a membership program offering monthly audiobooks from a selection of more than 180,000 titles.

5. Pocket

Pocket is an app that lets you grab stories, articles, videos, “or pretty much anything” you want to come back to read/view later. It also integrates with more than 1,500 other apps, including Flipboard, Pulse, and Twitter.

6. This American Life

This American Life is a weekly public radio show and is also available as a free weekly podcast–often the most popular podcast in the country, with around one million people downloading each week–and like audiobooks, podcasts are great for road trips.

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Travel News Vacation Travel

Take a Vacation, Get a Promotion?

The Harvard Business Review, recently published the article, “Are the People Who Take Vacations the Ones Who Get Promoted?” by Shawn Achor.

The premise is this:

Too many people limit their happiness and success by assuming that taking time off from work will send a negative message to their manager and slow their career advancement. But new research, says that the exact opposite is true. Taking a vacation can actually increase the likelihood of getting a raise or a promotion.

Achor then lists four reasons why it makes good business sense to take a vacation. My personal favorite was No. 2, where explains that “to be truly engaged at work, your brain needs periodic breaks to gain fresh perspective and energy.” He follows up with this knock-out punch:

But not all vacations are created equally. Consider research that shows that the average vacation yields no improvement in people’s levels of energy or happiness upon returning to work. In these cases, it wasn’t the time away that caused the negative or neutral impact, it was the travel stress. In a study of over 400 travelers from around the world, Michelle Gielan from the Institute for Applied Positive Research and I found a strong negative correlation between travel stress and happiness. However, we also found that 94% of vacations result in higher levels of happiness and energy if you 1) plan a month in advance and prepare your coworkers for your time away, 2) go outside your city (the further the better), 3) meet with a local host or other knowledgeable guide at the location, and 4) have the travel details set before going. Smart vacations lead to greater happiness and energy at work, and therefore, greater productivity, intelligence and resilience.

At Andavo Travel (the vacation travel division of Christopherson Business Travel), we are a network of experienced travel agents who specialize in reducing travel stress. Let us handle the stressful travel planning, arrange for a local host or guide at your destination, and figure out those travel details before you leave. This just leaves you the task of preparing your work/company/coworkers for your time away. We can send you on a “smart vacation” so that you can return to work happier and more productive – and hopefully ready for that promotion!

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Business Travel Travel Tips Vacation Travel

6 Tips to Travel More

With the New Year now in full swing, most of us have resolutions we are working on. But usually by mid-year (and often sooner), half of us have will have likely broken one or more of those resolutions.

One of the top ten most frequently “un-achieved” resolutions is to travel to a new place. This goal is usually broken due to a lack of time and/or money. But there are ways to keep this resolution. Here is a list of six tips to help you travel more:

Top 6 tips to actually traveling more

  1. Make Time – A vacation doesn’t have to be a week or two long. Try instead for a getaway to a location you can get to quickly either in your car or via a short flight. Enjoy an overnight trip and enjoy the local sights.
  2. Extend a Business Trip – Often the sites of a city to which you travel for business can be very interesting. Since you are there anyway, adding a day or two can be easy. This can also save you money on airfare, and perhaps car and hotel. When possible, you can even have your family or friends meet you after your  meetings are over so you can enjoy the locale with others.
  3. Use Your Vacation Days – Work doesn’t go away. Intentions to get “caught up” before you leave may never happen. But if you put it on the calendar, you are more inclined to take the vacation. And to take it one step further–book it. Forces yourself to take the time off. You’ll be happy you did.
  4.  Start Saving Now – With automated bank deposits and transfers, there are many ways to set aside money for vacations. Determine an amount you can set aside and make it an automated saving. You won’t miss the money, and will have a nice amount when vacation time comes around.
  5.  Take a Staycation – During the recession, many people saved money by taking “staycations”–a vacation in their own town. Even with a stronger economy, this is still a great way to revisit your city and local sights that maybe you haven’t explored before.
  6. Look for Volunteer Travel Opportunities – Join a charitable organization or get more involved with your church. Many times they organize trips to help those in third-world countries and the cost of such trips are often paid for through fundraising. Plus, what a great way to see the world–while helping those in need.

Whatever your resolutions may be, I hope travel is on to your list. So many great places and opportunities await.

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Business Travel Travel Tips Vacation Travel

Traveling With Your Four-Legged Friend

traveling with petsI recently saw a bumper sticker that read, “It’s all About my Dog,” and oh, how I could relate! For me, it’s all about my pet Hank. Without me realizing it, Hank has slowly begun to control my life over the last four years and has somehow became a member of the family. People say pets become like children. At first, I didn’t believe this statement, but now I think it’s worse than that. My children have never kept me from taking a vacation, but every time we think about going out of town, the big dilemma is: Who is going to watch Hank and will they keep him at their house or will we be able to find someone willing to stay at our house because, of course, it’s better for Hank to be at ‘his’ house.

Luckily there are pet-care options when going out of town for a business trip or vacation. Should you choose to leave your pet behind, there are many services for dog sitters, either at your home or at an off-site location. If you do take your pet to an off-site location, you may want to slowly introduce them to the new surroundings so that when you go on vacation it won’t be a traumatic experience. If you choose to have someone watch your pet at your home, it goes without saying, be sure you do your homework to find someone you can trust, who comes highly recommended.

Additionally, there is the option of taking your pet with you. Many hotels–even upscale hotels–are pet friendly with a deposit. Your pet can even travel on the airplane, but be sure to check your airline’s policies for the size of your pet, time of year, and temperature of the cargo compartment if you have to ‘check’ your pet.

Your Christopherson Business Travel agent or Andavo Travel agent, depending on whether or not you’re traveling for business or leisure, will be happy to assist you in finding those pet friendly hotels and airline regulations. Happy Traveling … Ruff, Ruff.

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Business Travel Travel News Vacation Travel

Travel trend report: “bleisure” travel

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More and more business travelers are adding leisure activities and vacation days to their work trips.

The trend of mixing business and leisure travel, a.k.a bleisure travel, is becoming increasingly popular, according to many news sources and worldwide surveys. More and more business travelers are adding leisure activities and vacation days to their work trips.

According to Skift.com, 83% of business travelers say they use time on business trips to explore the cities they’re visiting. Another 60% of respondents said they’ve taken a business leisure trip, and 30% have added two vacation days to business trips. Six in ten respondents say they’re more likely to take this kind of bleisure trip today than they were five years ago, and 78% think adding leisure days to business travel adds value to work assignments.

For businessmen and women who travel frequently throughout the year, they use bleisure travel as a way to stay connected to their families.  Additionally, since the company picks up the business traveler’s flight, it can also save the family money on airfare.

Many travelers are unsure if their company has a policy on bleisure travel. Is it allowed? Encouraged? Discouraged? These are questions to discuss with your company before delving too deep. Simply ask if your company has a policy on leisure activities during business trips. As long as the traveler is not charging the company for their leisure activities, most companies don’t seem to mind.

If you would like to travel for business and pleasure on your next business trip, your Christopherson Business Travel agent would be happy to assist you with your plans. Or they may connect you with one of our vacation-planning experts at Andavo Travel, Christopherson’s leisure travel division. Either way, Christopherson has the resources and expertise to assist you with your next bleisure trip.

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Business Travel Vacation Travel

Why do we travel?

Sometimes we are required to travel (in the case of business travel, for example), but sometimes we choose to travel as a leisure activity.  As a vacation travel consultant, I’m usually in the midst of preparing for my next journey. One of my latest trips was unforgettable! I traveled to Machu Picchu, Peru, where I found the Peruvian culture to be amazingly warmhearted and authentic. Machu Picchu was definitely the highlight, as it is archaeologically and visually breathtaking.

As I was preparing for my trip to Peru and managing my clients’ travel, it made me wonder what motivates a person to travel? Travel takes you away from the normalcy of everyday life, routines, and responsibilities. When you travel, you place yourself in an environment where you are unfamiliar with the surroundings. You maneuver your way through airports, hire local transportation, and find accommodations. You manage through climate, time zone, currency, and cultural differences. Travel takes you away from your element, but we all know it is definitely worthwhile. The new experiences and amazing adventures we encounter enrich our lives.

We arrange vacations to beautiful beaches and exciting cities. We choose to participate in activities we would never consider at home, such as taking a helicopter ride over a volcanic island such as Hilo, Hawaii, or maybe photographing the Big Five while on safari. We zipline though tropical Costa Rica, or parasail on famous beaches. Our travels may urge us to learn some of the local language, traditions, and rituals, or to study up on amazing wines.

Leisure travel is healthy; it de-stresses you. Travel allows you to be in the present moment, fully immersed in the new landscape, colorful cultures, history, and welcoming locals. I believe when you travel you become a richer person; you are more accepting and understanding of other cultures and people. I believe that when you travel you gain confidence. From the moment you touch down at your destination, you are interacting and connecting with the locals. You are faced with the unfamiliar, navigating your way through your destination, and having a marvelous adventure.

Everyone travels for different reasons. This is a big world and there are many ways to experience it. When you next get a break from corporate travel, and want to use up some of those vacation days, I hope you will contact me to arrange your next travel adventure!

Doreen Lopez is a travel advisor for Christopherson Business Travel’s leisure division, Andavo Travel.

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Business Travel Vacation Travel

Downtime Redefined: Taking a Vacation Can Mean Any Number of Things

1404365196711I just returned from a family vacation in Puerto Vallarta with my husband and three teenagers (Yes, we survived!). My son just graduated from high school and as children get older, it becomes more and more challenging to get everyone together at the same time.

These days, vacations come in myriad forms. While we took the traditional family vacation, more and more travelers are taking a different approach. Here are a few examples: A “paycation” is when you moonlight as you travel. A “daycation” is a quick 24-hour getaway. A “praycation” is a religious retreat. A “bakeation” is a foodie’s holiday dedicated to sampling pastries (Yum!). Eco tourism (a.k.a. sustainable tourism) and volunteer tourism are also becoming popular options for many travelers. If nothing else, you can have a “staycation” where you stay home and enjoy free time and sightseeing in your own city.

Regardless of how you decide to spend your time off, Christopherson Business Travel has an expert team of advisors in their leisure travel division (Andavo Travel) who can assist you with making your plans. Learn more on their website, or contact an agent for support by phone 866-327-7600.

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Business Travel Vacation Travel

US to Europe: Give Icelandair a Try

icelandairWhen researching flights for a recent trip to Europe, I found that Icelandair had the best options from Denver direct to Reykjavik. In fact, the fares are actually quite affordable any time of year, and additional savings can be achieved if you are willing to spend some time in Reykjavik.

Our flight from Denver to Reykjavik was six and a half hours and we had booked the Economy Comfort seating since this fare includes a meal and access to the Saga Lounge. We could order anything from the menu and the selection of entertainment was expansive. Passengers who take this flight in the summer will also enjoy beautiful scenery flying over Greenland, as the sun never sets on this flight. Upon arrival in Reykjavik, we found a beautiful, clean, and incredibly modern airport.

For our second flight from Reykjavik to London, we were upgraded to Business Class and were given the same amenities. The flight crew was incredibly accommodating and we landed in London feeling semi-rested and well fed.

For our return flight, we flew from Paris Charles de Gaulle to Reykjavik and found the flight just as pleasant. On this leg of the trip, we were able to enjoy a stopover in Reykjavik. We had booked a very short 36-hour stay, but will definitely stay longer next time, as the entire country seems to be incredibly organized and there is prearranged transportation for almost every activity.

Icelandair partners with Reykjavik Excursions and tickets are sold on the flight for an airport transfer which either includes a stop at the Blue Lagoon or goes directly to the city with hotel drop-offs. Both Reykjavik Excursions and Gray Line have a desk at the airport with regularly scheduled buses leaving for both the Blue Lagoon and Reykjavik.

We opted for the bus that stopped at the Blue Lagoon, since this attraction is much closer to the airport than downtown. These buses are also the best option for returning to the airport. They depart from downtown and all of the companies have an option for hotel pick up. But do keep in mind that Iceland is a very “on time” country and transportation runs on schedule to the minute.

By taking advantage of the 22 hours of daylight, we were also able to squeeze in a Golden Circle tour and some window shopping downtown during our short stay. It is important to note that the flight on Icelandair was perhaps the only affordable thing about our Reykjavik stopover, as we found that hotels, shopping and dining in the city were quite expensive. But even still–whether you are planning to vacation in Iceland or just stop over, Icelandair provides an affordable fare and great service when travelling to Europe.

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Travel Industry Travel News Vacation Travel

Virtuoso Travel Week: Agents shopping for your next travel adventure

Shopping’s never been more fun!  I’m excited to tell you that soon a whole contingent of Andavo Travel (the vacation planning division of Christopherson) travel advisors from across the country will be heading to Virtuoso Travel Week, the world’s largest luxury travel show, held each August in Las Vegas.

This event brings together the world’s leading luxury travel providers and travel agencies for a week-long, collaborative event where advisors shop cruises, hotels, tours and destinations for their clients. This one-of-a-kind event gives Virtuoso Member travel agencies and advisors the exclusive insider access they need to fulfill their clients travel dreams, turning ordinary trips into extraordinary experiences.

Do you have a particular adventure you want us to seek out for you? Perhaps you’re thinking of an African safari? Maybe you’re dreaming of cruising in a zodiac in Antarctica? Or biking through Asia? This is the perfect time for us to ‘shop’ for your next vacation, so give your Andavo agent a call and let’s discuss your travel interests.

For more info about Virtuoso Travel Week, view this 1-minute video:

Contact us today to start creating your next unique adventure.  www.AndavoTravel.com/vacations

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Travel News Vacation Travel

The perfect vacation won’t plan itself. Andavo Travel can help.

The world is a mighty big place, and vacation planning can sometimes seem overwhelming. That’s when it’s nice to have friends familiar with every corner of it. At Andavo Travel (the leisure division of Christopherson Business Travel), our well-traveled agents use first-hand experiences to customize vacations and have been orchestrating travel dreams to worldwide destinations for more than 30 years.

A screenshot of our Find An Advisor tool.
Find the perfect agent to plan your dream vacation with the “Find An Advisor” tool on AndavoTravel.com/Vacations.

Wondering how to find just the right Andavo travel agent?  Visit this new page on our website!

AndavoTravel.com/Vacations

Use the “Find An Advisor” tool to search for a travel agent that specializes in the interest or destination you’re looking for. Browse agent photos, bios, and recent blog posts to help you decide who is the best fit for you. We know you won’t be disappointed.

We are specialists in the art of travel. We save you time and deliver extraordinary travel experiences. We put our global connections to work to ensure that you receive the most advantageous pricing, access, upgrades, and amenities. Benefits that are simply not available to the general public.

Now, more than ever, the time you spend with family, friends and even yourself is your most valuable investment. We look forward to putting our passion for travel to work for you.

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Travel News Vacation Travel

“Summer loving had me a blast” … Disney Vacations from Andavo Travel

I think we’ve all heard that song at some point, and what a perfect reminder that summer is just around the corner!

Do you have your summer vacation plans set yet? Does your list of potential ideas include the words “Disney” or “beach”? Last summer my family did “Disney” and “Beach” in July and it was a blast for everyone, young to old.

Andavo Travel, the vacation division of Christopherson Business Travel, has been recognized as an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner for the breadth of knowledge and value we bring to you, the customer, when it comes to Disney vacation options. In fact, with this recognition, our team was awarded a limited-edition commemorative gicle’e painting, created by Walt Disney Parks and Resorts Character Artist, Joe Kaminski.

Planning a Disney Vacation with Andavo Travel

“Time” is something we’re all lacking, so spend the time you do have getting ready for all of the fun you’ll have and allow our Authorized Disney Vacation Planners to take care of all the trip research for you.

Here it the information you should have ready when you call:

1) Which Disney destination you want to visit:

  • Walt Disney World in Florida
  • Disneyland in California
  • Disney Cruise Line
  • Adventures by Disney
  • Aulani Resort, Hawai’i
  • Beyond Walt Disney

2) The dates you’d like to go (And are your dates flexible?)

3) How many in your party and their ages

4) The type of transportation you plan to use to get to your destination, i.e. Do you need flights?

5) Any special needs or services required

6) Plans to purchase travel insurance, for the various potential emergencies or unexpected situations prior to, and during, your vacation. It’s definitely worth the cost in the end.

Christopherson Business Travel takes care of your entire managed travel program. Now let Andavo Travel take care of your vacation plans. Contact Andavo Travel via AndavoTravel.com.

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Travel News Vacation Travel

What are your travel dreams? Take the Virtuoso Life Travel Dreams Survey and find out.

TravelDreamsWhat’s at the top of your travel wish list? Take the 2014 Virtuoso Life Travel Dreams Survey, and you may be surprised at the destinations you chose that hadn’t initially come to mind.

The questionnaire takes just minutes to complete. It begins by asking you to identify the travel personality that most closely matches yours, followed by a brief journey through the travel questions. Once you click “submit,” you’ll receive a summary of your answers; your own personal travel wish list to share with family, friends and your travel advisor.

PLUS, you’ll be automatically entered for a chance to win one of these prizes:

Grand Prize: A 14-day cruise for 2 aboard Crystal Symphony from Bali to Bangkok on Crystal Cruises with air courtesy of Etihad Airways.

First Prize: One of five $1,000 cash prizes.

The deadline to enter is March 31, 2014.

Christopherson Business Travel is a Virtuoso member agency.

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Business Travel Travel Tips Vacation Travel

Business travel to Tokyo? Delta’s non-stop from Seattle to Haneda is the way to go.

Christopherson Business Travel’s Account Management team recently had a opportunity to visit Japan, flying Delta Airlines. Our team was so impressed with Delta’s business class.

Delta’s Non-stop Service From Seattle to Tokyo

On the outbound, non-stop flight from Seattle to Tokyo we flew Delta’s 767. The 767 is extremely comfortable for sleeping on long-haul flights and the flight attendants were attentive to our every need. The food definitely didn’t taste like airplane food (which is of the utmost importance to me!) I choose sashimi, duck confit, smoked and braised beef short ribs, and chocolate ganache cake for dessert. It was all divine–like dining on a gourmet food airplane (now that’s a concept). There were countless movie selections and the flight just seemed to fly by (pun intended).

Once we arrived at Haneda Airport, we cleared customs in record time and took a short, 15-minute bus ride to our downtown Tokyo hotel. I couldn’t believe how quickly that process went. I have flown to many different international cities where the entire first day day is spent clearing customs and getting from the airport to the hotel. It’s no wonder Haneda was named the World’s Best Domestic Airport at the 2013 SkytraxWorld Airport Awards held at the Passenger Terminal EXPO in Geneva. (And because I live in the amazing city of Denver, I must also say that Denver was voted #5).

Things to Do and Eat in Tokyo

In Tokyo, we had three full days of activities. We visited the Tokyo Tower, Imperial Palace, Ginza, Meiji Jingu Shrine, and Shinjuku. It was quite helpful that we had an amazing tour guide. The transit system is very efficient but it’s also very difficult to understand the signs. In fact, it’s almost impossible unless you are proficient in Japanese. I would highly recommend using a tour guide.

Of course, additional highlights for me included the two great restaurants. The first was Gonpachi Restaurant (where the movie Kill Bill was filmed). Gonpachi is definitely a tourist trap (which I tend to stay away from), however the food was excellent so I didn’t mind all the tourists. And they really have amazing food (have I mentioned that?).  Anyone visiting Japan must try it.

The other restaurant was Nobu. I have been to many of Nobu Matsuhisa’s restaurants around the world, but nothing is like eating at Nobu’s in Japan. You truly can’t get more authentic than that.

Which Tokyo airport should you fly into–Narita or Haneda?

Our departure out of Tokyo was from Narita Airport. We again took a bus, but this time, it stopped at multiple hotels to pick-up additional passengers. The trip from our hotel to Narita Airport took one hour and forty minutes–much longer than the quick 15-minute bus ride from our in-bound flight. I, being in the travel business, wonder why more people don’t fly into Haneda? Perhaps it’s because Narita had been the only option for so long, we automatically think NRT (Narita), the only airport in Tokyo for as long as we can remember. But we need to think differently when flying into Tokyo. Haneda is a much better option if your business is taking you to downtown Tokyo.

Delta’s Lie-Flat 777 Seating

On our way back to the States, we flew Delta’s non-stop triple seven flight from Narita to Minneapolis. I must say the new lie-flat herringbone seats on the 777 are amazing. They really are 100% flat! Another great feature about these seats is that you do not have a neighbor, so just know–if you hope to do business or visit with the passenger next to you, it won’t happen in these seats. But in my opinion this is perfect, because you have a seat that lays completely flat when reclined, meaning you can actually sleep. We arrived in Minneapolis and it felt like I had only been in an airplane seat for a couple of hours–certainly not 11.

All in all, it was a wonderful trip. But the biggest “take-away” for me, was that I want to get the word out about Delta’s non-stop service from Seattle to Haneda. I want agents to start thinking “Haneda” when flying to Tokyo and I want all of our clients to know about the Seattle-Haneda service. It is truly a wonderful experience and a great time-saver for business travels to Tokyo.

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Vacation Travel

Destination Highlight: Iguazu Falls, Argentina

I recently visited Iguazu Falls, prior to attending the Virtuoso Symposium in Buenos Aires. (Isn’t it nice when you can add some leisure travel to your business trip?) Iguazu Falls is on the border of Brazil and Northern Argentina, and consists of numerous waterfalls varying from about 200-270 feet high. It is divided into upper and lower Iguazu and is so large that there is no vantage point that allows you to view the entire falls at once, unless you are in a helicopter. The upper falls are called the Devil’s Throat, where about half of the rivers flow falls. The Devil’s Throat is about 270 feet high, 490 feet wide, and 2,300 feet long. It is incredible to see the amount of water flowing through it!

About 20% of the falls are on the Brazil side and 80% are on the Argentina side. The Argentina side takes you almost the entire day to visit, because of the numerous catwalks along the entire top of the falls. It also takes you to a great vantage point right in the middle of the Devil’s Throat. I did not visit the Brazil side, but it seemed that the Argentina side got you much closer to the falls overall and had a lot more to see, where as the Brazil side gave good panoramic views from across the river.

The best place to stay is the Sheraton Iguazu Resort & Spa. It is the only hotel inside the park. You can literally walk out the back side of the hotel and you are at the falls. The other hotels are in Puerto Iguazu, which is a small town about 20 minutes from the falls. The Sheraton is more expensive because of its proximity to the falls, but it’s still the best option.

We spent a day at Iguazu Falls and I believe it was the perfect amount of time. Two days would have allowed for us to take our time, but much more time would have been excessive. The only thing to see is the falls, but they are definitely worth the trip. Even though Iguazu is packed with tourists and far away from anything, it is still absolutely amazing and completely worth seeing.

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Travel News Vacation Travel

Virtuoso Traveler Magazine: Relax & Recharge

VirtuosoTravelerAugustWhere do you escape to when it’s time for a respite, when you want to slow down and settle back, where you can turn off the smartphone and all the distractions of the world? From tranquil weekends at the spa to teeing up for a leisurely game of golf, the August issue of Virtuoso Traveler is full of travel ideas geared to help you relax and recharge. Cast your line in the rivers of the Great Smoky Mountains, saddle up in Montana, or set sail in Chesapeake Bay. However you prefer to unwind, your Andavo Travel advisor (the vacation division of Christopherson Business Travel) can remove the weight of planning by arranging all the details.

Enjoy this digital edition of Virtuoso Traveler magazine with our compliments.

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Travel News Vacation Travel

Virtuoso’s Travel Dreams Survey Results Are In

VirtuosoLifeCover2The results are in. Nearly 8,000 people took Virtuoso’s Travel Dreams online survey to determine their travel personalities and share which destinations and travel experiences top their wish lists. In this issue of Virtuoso Life magazine, hot off the presses, Virtuoso shares the results. From Australia to French Polynesia, discover the top fantasy islands, where to set sail, cities that excite, favorite family vacations, and of course, top trips of a lifetime! And, new this year, they asked respondents to pick their travel personality. Are you the go-go type or someone who yearns to unplug and just be still?

Take a peek at this month’s issue of Virtuoso Life and see how your travel dreams line up.  And if you’re ready to make those dreams a reality, contact a travel advisor at Andavo Travel (Christopherson Business Travel’s vacation travel division) for assistance in planning.

Note:  If you’d like to receive a hard copy version of the award-winning Virtuoso Life magazine (published six times per year), simply fill out the form on this page for a free subscription – compliments of Andavo Travel.

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Travel News Vacation Travel

Your Travel Photos Could Earn You Fame and Fortune

Virtuoso photo contest
The Virtuoso Traveler Photography Contest 2013
Deadline to Enter: June 16, 2013

As you may know, Christopherson Business Travel and Andavo Travel (Christopherson’s vacation division) are proud members of Virtuoso. Consisting of 7,200 travel advisors associated with over 330 agencies in 20 countries, Virtuoso is the world’s most exclusive network of travel advisors. So exclusive, in fact, that only 1% of all travel agencies are invited to join.

Virtuoso’s annual photography contest is underway, and you can win cash prizes just by entering your travel photography. Virtuoso wants to see pictures of how you make the most of your vacations. Send in your best shots that include you and/or your family and friends soaking in your favorite travel moments (see examples of previous winners above). We know that your Christopherson or Andavo travel advisors have helped design some amazing trips, so here’s your chance to brag. Four lucky travelers will win cash prizes, and win or not, your photo may appear in Virtuoso Life® magazine or on Virtuoso.com.

You may enter as many vacation photos as you wish anytime during this year’s contest period (deadline is June 16, 2013). Upload a couple of photos now, and a few later – the choice is yours.

Judges will be looking for image quality, composition, and creativity in addition to the requirement of you and/or your family and friends being in your photos. We know you have great landscapes and other interesting pix, but this contest is all about you and your travel experiences. These may include celebrations, simple pleasures, special moments, ultimate adventures, and/or the fulfillment of travel dreams. You’ll have a chance to title each image, to indicate where and when it was taken, and to tell us about what made it a special moment for you.

Show us what you’ve got! Put those hundreds of vacation photos to good use, and we’ll cross our fingers that you win.

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Travel News Vacation Travel

Planning Multi-generational Vacations: Get on board!

Have you heard the term “multi-generational travel?” It’s big in the travel industry right now, and refers to the trend of going on family vacations that include grandparents, parents and grandchildren–you can even throw in aunts, uncles, and cousins while you’re at it! These trips are amazing for getting quality family time with extended family members, but can be tricky to plan with so many schedules, varied interests, and ages. May I suggest cruising as a solution?

The 2013 Virtuoso Luxe Report found that family and multi-generational travel are the year’s biggest travel trend, with river and luxury cruises taking the next two spots. The report also found that spending time and reconnecting with loved ones were among the top reasons motivating such travel. Not surprisingly, Virtuoso travel agencies like Andavo Travel have seen a lot of crossover in these trends, with more clients booking multi-generational cruises over the past three years.

Cruising lends itself well to families with a range of ages and interests. It provides the convenience of being able to travel together, of only having to unpack once, all while experiencing a variety of destinations together as a family. Another added benefit, especially if there are little ones, is that when nap or bed time comes, the stateroom is only steps away, while everyone else can stay put and finish their activity.

Imagine, for example, the challenge of family travel in Europe–the cost of going to multiple destinations by train or plane with the whole crew: grandparents, parents and grandkids. With cruising, guests can go off for the day, onboard or ashore, and do what they like. Then everyone can gather together again for dinner and talk about the day.

At Andavo Travel, Christopherson Business Travel’s leisure travel division, we book many multi-generational trips–not just cruises! And having an agency handle all the details for families, particularly those spread out across the U.S., can be a real time and money saver.

Contact us today and we’ll get started on your family trip!

AndavoTravel.com or 866-327-7600

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Vacation Travel

Four Seasons Resort Vail: An Experience that shouldn’t be missed

My career path has taken me to some amazing places around the world and I’ve been fortunate to stay at numerous luxury hotel properties. Because of this, I am often asked what city or resort I’ve enjoyed the most. This is a difficult question for me, and usually requires a really long answer. However, I can tell you, hands down, that my favorite brand of hotel properties is Four Seasons. And while yes, they have amazing locations, beautiful suites, and impeccable grounds, it is their truly amazing, dedicated service that places them at the top of my list.

Recently, my husband, two young children and I visited the Four Seasons Resort in Vail, Colorado. We were greeted immediately and checked in within 5 minutes. When we got to our room, our luggage had already magically appeared, and I thought, how did that happen so quickly?

Our room was also thoughtfully prepared, with attention given to every detail–from hand-colored pictures for our kids, to cookies and milk with their names written in chocolate sauce.

We really wanted to experience the resort so we ate most of our meals there and truly “hung out.” The meals at the Flame restaurant were amazing. We ate breakfast and dinner there, and the breakfast buffet was the best I have ever enjoyed. Just imagine–homemade omelets, Belgian waffles, fruit, charcuteries, and the most unbelievable pork belly bacon you have ever tasted. (I really wanted to find a way to bring that stuff home!) Olga, our lovely wait staff, seemed to never leave our side, even for the buffet.

During our outings to the hot tub, there was always staff around, offering hot chocolate or some sort of wonderfully-made snack. You could, quite honestly, make Four Seasons Resort Vail your single and final destination (although of course there are also wonderful things to see and do outside the resort, in and around the city).

Ski season is, of course, a great time to visit Vail and the Four Seasons Resort–their ski valets are first rate–but the off-season is just as lovely as well. And the Four Seasons is, in my opinion, the only place to stay, should your travels take you to Vail.

Christopherson Business Travel is a Four Seasons Preferred Agency. If you’d like to enjoy the same service and experience my family received, please contact one of our travel specialists today to make reservations at Four Seasons Resort Vail.

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Business Travel Vacation Travel

Internet vs Travel Advisor for Booking Vacation Travel

why use a travel advisor

By now, most of our blog readers are probably convinced of the benefits of using a travel agency to book your business travel–the convenience, the technology, the assistance with making changes, help in tracking your unused tickets, etc., etc.

But do you feel the same way about using a travel advisor to book your vacation travel?  Or do you spend hours and hours doing research on the Internet, trying to find the cheapest flights, the best hotel for your budget and preferences, and planning activities to do once you arrive. Travel planning can be very time consuming and frustrating, and yet so many people continue doing it all on their own.  Why?

I love this list of the Top 10 Reasons to Use a Travel Advisor, written by Ruthanne Terrero, the Editorial Director of the Questex Travel Group.  It’s funny, and oh-so-true!

  1. You’ve Googled “Mexico vacation,” and come up with 17.8 million responses. Need a little help editing those choices?
  2. Remember when you used that obscure website to book your hotel, and when you got there you spent your beach vacation overlooking a parking lot?
  3. How many hours were you on hold with the airline when your flight was canceled because of a snowstorm?
  4. Did you really mean to spend your honeymoon at that resort whose one tiny pool was filled all day with 12 screaming children?
  5. Who knew that when you booked that “villa” in Tuscany, it would be a small room with a kitchenette and no air conditioning? Funny, it looked much better on your computer screen.
  6. No one explained to you that in July, its winter time in Rio, and so you showed up there with nothing but five Hawaiian shirts and three pairs of swimming trunks.
  7. How about the time you really needed a restful vacation, and you ended up in New Orleans during Mardi Gras and someone threw up on your shoes?
  8. Yes, I guess that hotel must have used a telephoto lens when they took a picture of those guest rooms that you saw on their website.
  9. I suppose contacting the Attorney General to resolve the fact that that Internet site has billed your credit card three times instead of once is the only route to take at this point.
  10. It was definitely odd that there were no cab drivers at the airport at 3 o’clock in the morning when you finally landed in Costa Rica, but booking a transfer to your very remote hotel would have been a good thing to remember when you purchased your airline ticket and hotel online.

If this list sounds at all familiar to you, it may be time to contact a travel advisor and see what a huge difference it makes in planning your next vacation. Andavo Travel has an amazing group of world-class travel advisors with years of experience.  You can pick one who has the destination specialty you’d like, here.

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Business Travel Travel Tips Vacation Travel

Car Rental Hidden Costs – Are they DRIVING you Crazy?

We’ve talked about this before, but I find that it’s always helpful to review the hidden costs of renting a car.
To begin, let’s say you’ve found a great rental deal for $20/day. Unfortunately that “great” rate doesn’t guarantee you a low-cost rental. Instead, upon returning your car, you find the price has skyrocketed and the bill now includes sales taxes, airport surcharges, insurance, and licensing fees. By the time all the extra charges are added on, the guaranteed result is a severe case of sticker shock … and a final cost double the initial alluring base rate.
So how can you avoid the shock of pricing overload? Here is a summary of car rental surcharges and a few tips for how to cut costs on your next rental.

Taxes and Airport Surcharges

Sales tax and airport charges vary considerably from state to state, and you won’t be able to avoid state and local sales taxes. Many local governments also charge fees to fund their own development projects, such as convention centers or sports stadiums, and some car rental companies also include a daily surcharge for economy recovery fees.
But avoiding airport charges is simple and something to always consider. You can eliminate airport concession recovery fees and customer facility charges by picking up and dropping off your car at an off-airport location. Weighing the possible inconveniences and the price of additional transportation to and from the airport against the concession fees charged by the airport location is, however, a must as doing so could save you more than 15% of your total price.

Insurance

This is usually referred to by rental companies as “collision damage” or “Loss Damage Waiver (LDW).” For an extra $25 – $30 a day, you can avoid liability for any damage to the vehicle, provided you’re not found guilty of gross negligence. Insurance is optional, although in a few states it is compulsory and built into the basic car rental cost.
So, before you purchase the extra insurance, check to see if your regular car insurance covers you in a rental car. Some policies do. Most credit cards also provide insurance if you pay for your rental with that card. Larger companies also include car rental addendums in their company insurance which also covers office equipment and the like. Keep in mind that limitations may apply to all types of coverage. If you’re not comfortable with the risk, consult with your insurance administrator or travel manager.

Gasoline Charges

Returning a car with an empty tank will create an extra charges to your bottom line.  In most cases you’ll want to fill up before you return your vehicle. However, car rental companies now offer the option of purchasing a full tank of gas when you first take the car, enabling you to return the car with as much or as little fuel as you wish.
Keep in mind that there is no refund for unused fuel, so you’d be paying a little extra for the convenience of skipping the trip to the gas station. Also, you may be able to find a better per-gallon price by shopping around on your own.

Drop-Off Charges

An extra fee is usually charged if a car is returned to a different location than where it was picked up. This fee varies by location. In some instances there is no charge, however you could pay more than $1,000 for picking a car up at LAX and dropping it of at JFK plus around $0.35 per mile.
If your corporation has a car rental contract make sure it notes a “one way” rate. The rates will be higher than your normal corporate rate but will save money in the long run.

The 24-Hour Clock

If you rent your car on Wednesday and return it on Thursday, most companies charge you one day only if you return it within 24 hours. Some companies will give you a 29-minute grace period before hourly charges kick in and after 90 – 120 minutes you may be charged for the full extra day. Some rental car companies are also now charging a late return fee of $10 per day.
Make sure you check the terms and conditions in your rental documents.

One Day Surcharges

Picking a car up only for one day will cost you more if those days are Monday through Thursday.  Because of the yield management process, it is more expensive for the car rental company if you pick your car up in the morning on Monday through Thursday and return it the same day. It eliminates the possibilities of another traveler needing that car for two or more days at a time. The one day surcharges are $5 to $7 over the normal daily rate and are “hidden” in the rate so you will not recognize you are being charged extra. Corporations can sometimes get this fee reduced or waived when negotiating a car rental contract.

Age Penalties

Renters under the age of 25 may have to pay additional fees of about $25 – $30 per day. Those companies who rent to drivers under 21 often charge much steeper surcharges. Those over 70 may also have to pay extra (if they’re able to rent at all).  Age restrictions vary by country and franchise, so be sure to check ahead.

Frequent Flier Fees

Car rental companies often charge a small fee when you request frequent flier miles for your rental. The fee varies by airline and can range anywhere from a few cents to $2 a day. Another choice would be to opt for the free day program instead of earning miles. There is not a charge for earning free rental days and are usually earned for every 15 days rented.