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Indian Hospitals, Wellness and Medical Tourism Players Join Forces to Make India the Global Healthcare Destination – Indian Medical Travel Association (IMTA) Launched

May 6, 2012 By

Indian Hospitals, Wellness and Medical Tourism Players Join Forces to Make India the Global Healthcare Destination – Indian Medical Travel Association (IMTA) Launched










New Delhi, India (PRWEB) June 12, 2009

Leading Indian Hospitals, Healthcare providers (both Modern Medicine and Traditional Indian Medicine), Travel and Medical Tourism Industry providers have come together to form an industry association – Indian Medical Travel Association (IMTA) that aims to work together to make India the leading global healthcare destination.

The phenomenon now popularly known as Medical Tourism is often cited as the next big opportunity for India after the IT outsourcing to earn billions of dollars in forex earnings and create jobs in the healthcare sector. So far only a select group of Indian hospitals have been making valiant attempts to market their services in international arena. More than a million overseas patients already treated at top Indian corporate hospitals like Apollo, Fortis, Wockhardt, Max, Manipal and many others have already proved to the world that the clinical quality, technology and cost proposition offered by India is unmatched. The capacity in super specialty segment Indian hospitals is expanding fast and there is no waiting period for local or overseas patients.

CII Mc’Kinsey study first reported on medical tourism as the billion dollar opportunity for India way back in 2002 and the steady growth in overseas patient arrivals has validated the potential. With a large number of new private super specialty hospitals and even integrated health cities coming up in India’s top ten cities, India has the potential to become the global leader in the Medical Travel/ Outsourcing industry. Indian doctors and professionals are world renowned for their skills and the country has abundance of all the inputs like talented young manpower, local high quality manufacturing base for pharmaceuticals, technology hardware and software that makes the Indian costs for high end surgical procedures so attractive. The challenge really is on the non medical side, primarily on the marketing front and also to create infrastructure and services to support the growth of medical tourism.

Indian Medical Travel Association (IMTA) – a non profit body and a unified voice of the Indian healthcare (modern medicine as well as traditional Indian medicine) and travel industry is aimed at preparing India for facing the challenges of global competition and actualise the tremendous opportunity for India to become a leading global healthcare destination. Modern medicine as well as India’s 5000 year old traditional therapies like Ayurveda, Siddha and Yoga can offer to the world an unbeatable healing package.

“IMTA would strive to help its members reach out in a cost effective manner to millions of our potential global consumers who reside on the other side of the globe in a different time and cultural zone and make them aware of the tremendous value that Indian healthcare offers. The fact is that prior to choosing a hospital, the international patients first decide on the country or the destination. Therefore we all must join hands to aggressively promote INDIA as a preferred global healthcare destination,” Says Pradeep Thukral, Executive Director, Indian Medical Travel Association (IMTA)

The Government of India and its various arms are actively supporting the growth of medical tourism to India. Two years ago the Government of India introduced a special category of Visa called M Visa for foreigners desirous of coming to India for medical treatment. India’s Ministry of Tourism has achieved phenomenal success in last five years with its much acclaimed “Incredible India “campaign that has multiplied the arrival of foreign tourists to India. The current year 2009 is being promoted by Indian Ministry of Tourism as “Visit India’” year and the ministry is keen to promote Medical Tourism. It has recently notified the Market Development Assistance (MDA) Scheme to eligible Medical Tourism players which enables them to get financial support for participation in overseas promotional events.

About Indian Medical Travel Association. http://www.indianmedicaltravelassociation.com

A non profit body aimed at preparing India for facing the challenges of global competition in Medical Tourism space and actualise the tremendous opportunity for India to become a leading global healthcare destination. IMTA’s membership has a diverse base of India’s leading JCI, NABH accredited hospitals, Indian System of Medicine and Wellness service providers, travel industry, Insurance, Assistance and Medical Tourism facilitation companies.

For more details please contact :-

Mr Pradeep Thukral,

Executive Director,

Indian Medical Travel Association

Email : pradeep.thukral@imta.in

Phone : 91 9810907151

Website : http://www.indianmedicaltravelassociation.com


# # #























Vocus©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.









Filed Under: Forex Market Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Strong Australian Dollar to Make Travel Abroad More Affordable

April 10, 2012 By

Strong Australian Dollar to Make Travel Abroad More Affordable











(PRWeb UK) December 9, 2010

The Australian dollar has recently performed very well against foreign currencies. According to online travel experts Jetabroad this will be a great advantage to Australians looking to travel abroad. The dollar has achieved parity with the US dollar and is also sitting in a position of strength against numerous other currencies. Information from Commonwealth Bank shows good exchanges between currencies in China, Norway, Tonga, Vietnam and Britain and many other countries. Analysts at the Commonwealth Bank expect the dollar to remain high for a significant period of time.

Darin Walters, MD of Jetabroad, says: “Given the state of the global economy many people are understandably worried about money. That is why the strength of the dollar is encouraging as people will be able to travel without spending too much. It is especially good to see strong exchange rates with popular destinations like Vietnam and Great Britain. Australians have always had a strong attachment to travel and the strength of the dollar means they can continue to do so despite tough economic times.”

Information from the Australian Bureau of Statistics shows that Australians are travelling more in recent months. The latest numbers show short-term departures in September up 12.6% over a similar period last year. This follows a steady increase of departures throughout July and August. In response to these figures Walters concludes: “These statistics show that Australians are once again travelling in significant numbers to destinations around the world. The strong dollar has definitely affected this and helped boost numbers. We are looking forward to helping our clients book great trips abroad in the coming months which will take advantage of the current situation and allow them to get the most out of every single Australian dollar that they spend.”

About Jetabroad.com.au:

Jetabroad is a Sydney-based, global online flight specialist and travel agency. The best flight options are just a click away with the ability to search, combine and ticket over 450 of the world’s commercial airlines. Jetabroad’s unique flight search technology allows for bookings in multiple currencies from anywhere, to anywhere else in the world. All inclusive pricing is displayed upfront in Jetabroad’s flight results – no extra charges or credit card fees are added at the end of the booking process when completing your online payment.

Based in Chatswood in Sydney’s northern suburbs Jetabroad is led by an executive team with extensive international experience in both offline and Internet-based travel and consumer marketing. Supported by a highly skilled team of online professionals and travel consultants they offer an exceptional customer experience at a competitive price.

# # #





















Vocus©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.







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Avoya Travel / America?s Vacation Center Honors Skip Fortier With 2010 ?Best of the Best? Award

March 27, 2012 By

Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center Honors Skip Fortier With 2010 ‘Best of the Best’ Award











Washington, DC (PRWEB) January 6, 2011

Skip Fortier, an independently owned and operated affiliate of Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center, one of the leading travel companies in North America and beyond, today announced he has been named one of Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center’s ‘Best of the Best’ in recognition of exceptional customer service, exemplary sales performance, and overall Integrity and Professionalism™ in 2010. This is the third consecutive year that Fortier has been recognized as a top performer for Avoya Travel /Americas Vacation Center, receiving the ‘Best of the Best’ award in 2009 and the ‘Top Performing Agency’ award in 2008.

“I take pride in offering top-notch customer service and it is an incredible honor and achievement to be recognized out of the hundreds of elite Independent Affiliates in Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center’s network,” said Fortier. “I love sending customers on their dream vacation, and receiving the ‘Best of the Best’ award is a testament to my hard work and successful relationships with customers around the world.”

Fortier was among the select few Independent Affiliates of Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center (http://www.AvoyaTravel.com) to be given the top honor of ‘Best of the Best’. For special recognition, Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center invited the 2010 ‘Best of the Best’ recipients to sail onboard the brand new Celebrity Eclipse’s inaugural cruise November 15 to 17. Fortier also received an award for his independent agency’s performance from Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center Co-Presidents, Brad Anderson and Van Anderson, during a privately-held Chairman’s Gala at the company’s 2010 National Conference in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, November 20 to 23.

“It is an outstanding achievement for Fortier to receive the 2010 ‘Best of the Best’ award and we are exceptionally fortunate to have him affiliated with Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center,” said Brad Anderson, Co-President of Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center. “We are proud of Skip’s exceptional top performance in 2008, 2009 and 2010, and look forward to his continued success.”

Fortier specializes in luxury cruises and escorted tour vacations and his many years of experience as a travel professional are evident. He has received accolades from Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center for his exceptional business performance, customer service, and Integrity and Professionalism™. In addition, Fortier is looked to as an expert in the travel industry and is frequently asked to speak at notable industry events.

Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center’s customers are supported in their travels worldwide by the most trusted name in travel, American Express, with access to travel and foreign exchange service locations in more than 140 countries. Fortier is an independently owned and operated affiliate of Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center, and travelers who would like to book their next trip with Skip Fortier can call toll-free at 1-800-581-9157 or visit http://www.AvoyaTravel.com/Experts/SkipFortier.

About Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center:

Avoya® Travel / America’s Vacation Center® (http://www.AvoyaTravel.com) is one of the largest and most awarded travel companies in North America and beyond. As an American Express Travel Representative for more than 20 years, Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center is deeply committed to Integrity and Professionalism™, quality service, and success in every aspect of planning vacations and cruises. With hundreds of Independent Affiliates in its network Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center provides exclusive discounts, amenities, and first-class customer service to travelers worldwide.

###





















Vocus©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.







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First Radical Advancement Since CPAPs Invented Available Jan 21, 2011; Transcend Offers Practical Sleep Apnea Therapy for Truckers, Pilots and Others Who Travel for Work

March 25, 2012 By

First Radical Advancement Since CPAPs Invented Available Jan 21, 2011; Transcend Offers Practical Sleep Apnea Therapy for Truckers, Pilots and Others Who Travel for Work











Transcend is small, lightweight, and portable


Minneapolis, MN (Vocus/PRWEB) January 10, 2011

Truckers, pilots and others who travel for work and have sleep apnea face hurdles when traveling with traditional CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines: they’re bulky and difficult to pack, depend on a reliable power source, and require distilled water for humidification. Add it all up and it’s a hassle.

Designed to fit today’s active lifestyle, Transcend is the first practical, wearable sleep apnea therapy system on the market that offers patients an innovative replacement to their old-fashion, cumbersome CPAPs. Overcoming the burdens faced by truckers, pilots and others who travel for work and who have sleep apnea, Transcend will be available for sale direct to consumers on January 21, 2011.

According to Ralph Germscheid, President of Somnetics, LLC, the maker of Transcend, “We’ve developed a completely new kind of therapy system. Transcend is FDA-approved and weighs approximately one pound. Its compact design, unique patent-pending heat moisture exchange technology, and portable power options make it ideal for travel and provide users with convenience and mobility not available from existing CPAP machines.”

Patients who participated in testing Transcend agree. “This device is more comfortable than my current CPAP,” said one patient. “I like to sleep with the window open. If I did that with my existing CPAP, the mask would fill up with water; with Transcend that doesn’t happen.”

Another patient commented, “The HME is remarkable. There’s no dripping water. It’s really sweet.” And yet another patient said, “Transcend is quick and easy to use. There’s no set up and it was no problem to sleep with it on my head.”

How Transcend is Different

In the evolution of sleep apnea therapy, Transcend is distinctly different from today’s conventional CPAP. Based on feedback from sleep apnea patients, Transcend was designed to overcome frustrations and hassles experienced by CPAP users including the need for:

Small Size, Less Bulk – CPAPs generally consist of the machine, a humidifier, six-foot hose, power cord, and mask. Packing a CPAP is cumbersome, especially when space is a premium; when flying, a CPAP means another carry-on bag. Transcend uses a short hose, weighs less than one pound, and measures about the size of a 12-ounce package of coffee beans. It is small and compact enough to fit into a carry-on, rather than be a separate carry-on.

Unlimited Mobility – Transcend fits comfortably on the head, uses a short hose and delivers vibration-free therapy. These unique features allow easy movement while sleeping and prevent mask leakage, problems often associated with standard CPAP systems. When used with a battery pack, Transcend lets the user rise during the night—to use the restroom, get a drink of water, close a window—without removing the device.

Uncomplicated Humidification – Transcend uses a small, disposable hygienic heat moisture exchanger (HME) in place of a chamber humidifier found with traditional CPAPs. The HME captures moisture from the patient’s exhaled breath, which provides warm humidification to prevent nose irritation and congestion. Though HME technology is used every day in ventilators found in hospital critical care and surgical departments, Transcend is the first sleep apnea therapy system to fully accommodate this technology.

Power that doesn’t drain vehicle battery – Access to power is a necessity when using a sleep apnea therapy device. Battery packs generally do not have the ability to power a conventional CPAP and heated humidifier and DC mobile power options can drain a vehicle’s battery. Because Transcend uses HME technology instead of a chamber humidifier, a low amount of power is needed to provide a full night’s restorative sleep with humidification—even when using a battery pack.

Hassle-Free Maintenance – Transcend has few parts to clean. HME technology eliminates the cleaning and sanitation issues associated with conventional CPAP humidifiers and the HME is disposable. Transcend’s “dry mode” feature blows air through the system to dry it at the end of each use and LED lights alert the patient when it’s time to replace the inlet filter.

Effective Therapy – Transcend provides a wide range of therapy pressure. It regulates prescribed therapy pressure in the mask, resulting in comfortable and extremely tight pressure regulation, and a ramp feature allows users to acclimate to air pressure as they fall asleep. Transcend also automatically adjusts to altitudes up to 8,000 feet, making it easy to use at high altitudes.

Transcend Availability – Transcend and its accessories will be available for sale online beginning on January 21, 2011, by the following dealers: CPAP.com, CPAP Supply USA, CPAPXchange.com, and Direct Home Medical. Transcend comes with a two-year manufacturer’s warranty. Health insurance coverage is dependent on each individual patient’s plan; each patient must check with the medical equipment dealer to determine if his/her insurance can be used to purchase Transcend.

About Sleep Apnea

According to the American Sleep Apnea Association, nearly 20 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea and those with obstructive sleep apnea—a condition that causes a person to stop breathing during sleep when the soft tissue in the throat collapses—tend to have high blood pressure, heart problems, headaches, and memory problems. OSA can also be linked to job impairment and motor vehicle crashes. Both men and women can develop sleep apnea, but it is more common in men, particularly middle-age men who are also overweight. Approximately half of those suffering from sleep apnea also have a snoring problem.

Transcend is a Somnetics, LLC Product

Somnetics, LLC is a privately held Minnesota-based medical device company and is an emerging leader in customer-driven design, development, and production of respiratory medical devices. Somnetics’ mission is focused on integrating technology, customer input, and employee creativity to provide innovative, high quality products that improve the lives of people with respiratory disorders. It received FDA market clearance for the Transcend CPAP machine in July 2010. Transcend is protected by several issued and pending US and foreign patents.

###





















Vocus©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.







Find More Foreign Exchange Market Press Releases

Filed Under: Foreign Exchange Market Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

First Radical Advancement Since CPAPs Invented Available Jan 21, 2011; Transcend Offers Practical Sleep Apnea Therapy for Truckers, Pilots and Others Who Travel for Work

March 25, 2012 By

First Radical Advancement Since CPAPs Invented Available Jan 21, 2011; Transcend Offers Practical Sleep Apnea Therapy for Truckers, Pilots and Others Who Travel for Work











Transcend is small, lightweight, and portable


Minneapolis, MN (Vocus/PRWEB) January 10, 2011

Truckers, pilots and others who travel for work and have sleep apnea face hurdles when traveling with traditional CPAP (continuous positive airway pressure) machines: they’re bulky and difficult to pack, depend on a reliable power source, and require distilled water for humidification. Add it all up and it’s a hassle.

Designed to fit today’s active lifestyle, Transcend is the first practical, wearable sleep apnea therapy system on the market that offers patients an innovative replacement to their old-fashion, cumbersome CPAPs. Overcoming the burdens faced by truckers, pilots and others who travel for work and who have sleep apnea, Transcend will be available for sale direct to consumers on January 21, 2011.

According to Ralph Germscheid, President of Somnetics, LLC, the maker of Transcend, “We’ve developed a completely new kind of therapy system. Transcend is FDA-approved and weighs approximately one pound. Its compact design, unique patent-pending heat moisture exchange technology, and portable power options make it ideal for travel and provide users with convenience and mobility not available from existing CPAP machines.”

Patients who participated in testing Transcend agree. “This device is more comfortable than my current CPAP,” said one patient. “I like to sleep with the window open. If I did that with my existing CPAP, the mask would fill up with water; with Transcend that doesn’t happen.”

Another patient commented, “The HME is remarkable. There’s no dripping water. It’s really sweet.” And yet another patient said, “Transcend is quick and easy to use. There’s no set up and it was no problem to sleep with it on my head.”

How Transcend is Different

In the evolution of sleep apnea therapy, Transcend is distinctly different from today’s conventional CPAP. Based on feedback from sleep apnea patients, Transcend was designed to overcome frustrations and hassles experienced by CPAP users including the need for:

Small Size, Less Bulk – CPAPs generally consist of the machine, a humidifier, six-foot hose, power cord, and mask. Packing a CPAP is cumbersome, especially when space is a premium; when flying, a CPAP means another carry-on bag. Transcend uses a short hose, weighs less than one pound, and measures about the size of a 12-ounce package of coffee beans. It is small and compact enough to fit into a carry-on, rather than be a separate carry-on.

Unlimited Mobility – Transcend fits comfortably on the head, uses a short hose and delivers vibration-free therapy. These unique features allow easy movement while sleeping and prevent mask leakage, problems often associated with standard CPAP systems. When used with a battery pack, Transcend lets the user rise during the night—to use the restroom, get a drink of water, close a window—without removing the device.

Uncomplicated Humidification – Transcend uses a small, disposable hygienic heat moisture exchanger (HME) in place of a chamber humidifier found with traditional CPAPs. The HME captures moisture from the patient’s exhaled breath, which provides warm humidification to prevent nose irritation and congestion. Though HME technology is used every day in ventilators found in hospital critical care and surgical departments, Transcend is the first sleep apnea therapy system to fully accommodate this technology.

Power that doesn’t drain vehicle battery – Access to power is a necessity when using a sleep apnea therapy device. Battery packs generally do not have the ability to power a conventional CPAP and heated humidifier and DC mobile power options can drain a vehicle’s battery. Because Transcend uses HME technology instead of a chamber humidifier, a low amount of power is needed to provide a full night’s restorative sleep with humidification—even when using a battery pack.

Hassle-Free Maintenance – Transcend has few parts to clean. HME technology eliminates the cleaning and sanitation issues associated with conventional CPAP humidifiers and the HME is disposable. Transcend’s “dry mode” feature blows air through the system to dry it at the end of each use and LED lights alert the patient when it’s time to replace the inlet filter.

Effective Therapy – Transcend provides a wide range of therapy pressure. It regulates prescribed therapy pressure in the mask, resulting in comfortable and extremely tight pressure regulation, and a ramp feature allows users to acclimate to air pressure as they fall asleep. Transcend also automatically adjusts to altitudes up to 8,000 feet, making it easy to use at high altitudes.

Transcend Availability – Transcend and its accessories will be available for sale online beginning on January 21, 2011, by the following dealers: CPAP.com, CPAP Supply USA, CPAPXchange.com, and Direct Home Medical. Transcend comes with a two-year manufacturer’s warranty. Health insurance coverage is dependent on each individual patient’s plan; each patient must check with the medical equipment dealer to determine if his/her insurance can be used to purchase Transcend.

About Sleep Apnea

According to the American Sleep Apnea Association, nearly 20 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea and those with obstructive sleep apnea—a condition that causes a person to stop breathing during sleep when the soft tissue in the throat collapses—tend to have high blood pressure, heart problems, headaches, and memory problems. OSA can also be linked to job impairment and motor vehicle crashes. Both men and women can develop sleep apnea, but it is more common in men, particularly middle-age men who are also overweight. Approximately half of those suffering from sleep apnea also have a snoring problem.

Transcend is a Somnetics, LLC Product

Somnetics, LLC is a privately held Minnesota-based medical device company and is an emerging leader in customer-driven design, development, and production of respiratory medical devices. Somnetics’ mission is focused on integrating technology, customer input, and employee creativity to provide innovative, high quality products that improve the lives of people with respiratory disorders. It received FDA market clearance for the Transcend CPAP machine in July 2010. Transcend is protected by several issued and pending US and foreign patents.

###





















Vocus©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.







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Filed Under: Foreign Exchange Market Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center Honors Carol Howell with 2010 ‘Best of the Best’ Award

March 22, 2012 By

Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center Honors Carol Howell with 2010 ‘Best of the Best’ Award










Dearborn, MI (PRWEB) January 10, 2011

Carol Howell, an independently owned and operated affiliate of Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center, one of the leading travel companies in North America and beyond, today announced she has been named one of Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center’s ‘Best of the Best’ in recognition of exceptional customer service, exemplary sales performance, and overall Integrity and Professionalism™ in 2010.

“I take pride in offering top-notch customer service and it is an incredible honor and achievement to be recognized out of the hundreds of elite Independent Affiliates in Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center’s network,” said Howell. “I love sending customers on their dream vacation, and receiving the ‘Best of the Best’ award is a testament to my hard work and successful relationships with customers around the world.”

Howell was among the select few Independent Affiliates of Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center (http://www.AvoyaTravel.com) to be given the top honor of ‘Best of the Best’. For special recognition, Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center invited the 2010 ‘Best of the Best’ recipients to sail onboard the brand new Celebrity Eclipse’s inaugural cruise November 15 to 17. Howell also received an award for her independent agency’s performance from Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center Co-Presidents, Brad Anderson and Van Anderson, during a privately-held Chairman’s Gala at the company’s 2010 National Conference in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, November 20 to 23.

“It is an outstanding achievement for Carol Howell to receive the ‘Best of the Best’ award and we are exceptionally fortunate to have her affiliated with Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center,” said Brad Anderson, Co-President of Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center. “Carol deserves to be applauded for her exceptional business performance, customer service, and most importantly, Integrity and Professionalism.”

Howell has more than 20 years of experience selling travel and planning dream vacations for customers around the globe. She has always had a passion for all aspects of the travel industry, and specializes in selling small ship cruise experiences and escorted tour vacations.

Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center’s customers are supported in their travels worldwide by the most trusted name in travel, American Express, with access to travel and foreign exchange service locations in more than 140 countries. Howell is an independently owned and operated affiliate of Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center, and travelers who would like to book their next trip with Ms. Howell can call toll-free at 1-800-991-8404 or visit http://www.AvoyaTravel.com/Experts/CarolHowell.

About Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center:

Avoya® Travel / America’s Vacation Center® (http://www.AvoyaTravel.com) is one of the largest and most awarded travel companies in North America and beyond. As an American Express Travel Representative for more than 20 years, Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center is deeply committed to Integrity and Professionalism™, quality service, and success in every aspect of planning vacations and cruises. With hundreds of Independent Affiliates in its network Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center provides exclusive discounts, amenities, and first-class customer service to travelers worldwide.

###


















Vocus©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.







Find More Foreign Exchange Press Releases

Filed Under: Foreign Exchange Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , ,

Kathy Johnston Receives “2010 Best of the Best Award” from America’s Vacation Center / Avoya Travel

March 5, 2012 By

Kathy Johnston Receives “2010 Best of the Best Award” from America’s Vacation Center / Avoya Travel










Marietta, GA (PRWEB) January 29, 2011

Kathy Johnston, an independently owned and operated affiliate of Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center, one of the leading travel companies in North America and beyond, today announced she has been named one of Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center’s ‘Best of the Best’ in recognition of exceptional customer service, exemplary sales performance, and overall Integrity and Professionalism™ in 2010. “I take pride in offering top-notch customer service and it is an incredible honor and achievement to be recognized out of the hundreds of elite Independent Affiliates in Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center’s network,” said Johnston. “I love sending customers on their dream vacation, and receiving the ‘Best of the Best’ award is a testament to my hard work and successful relationships with customers around the world.” Johnston was among the select few Independent Affiliates of Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center (http://www.AvoyaTravel.com) to be given the top honor of ‘Best of the Best’. For special recognition, Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center invited the 2010 ‘Best of the Best’ recipients to sail onboard the brand new Celebrity Eclipse’s inaugural cruise November 15 to 17. Johnston also received an award for her independent agency’s performance from Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center Co-Presidents, Brad Anderson and Van Anderson, during a privately-held Chairman’s Gala at the company’s 2010 National Conference in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, November 20 to 23. “It is an outstanding achievement for Kathy Johnston to receive the ‘Best of the Best’ award and we are exceptionally fortunate to have her affiliated with Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center,” said Brad Anderson, Co-President of Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center. “Kathy deserves to be applauded for her exceptional business performance, customer service, and most importantly, Integrity and Professionalism.” Johnston has more than 25 years of experience selling travel for customers around the globe. She has always had passion for all aspects of the travel industry, and specializes in selling cruises, escorted tours and vacation packages. Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center’s customers are supported in their travels worldwide by the most trusted name in travel, American Express, with access to travel and foreign exchange service locations in more than 140 countries. Johnston is an independently owned and operated affiliate of Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center, and travelers who would like to book their next trip with Johnston can call toll-free at 1-800-936-1858 or visit Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center: Avoya® Travel / America’s Vacation Center® (http://www.AvoyaTravel.com) is one of the largest and most awarded travel companies in North America and beyond. As an American Express Travel Representative for more than 20 years, Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center is deeply committed to Integrity and Professionalism™, quality service, and success in every aspect of planning vacations and cruises. With hundreds of Independent Affiliates in its network Avoya Travel / America’s Vacation Center provides exclusive discounts, amenities, and first-class customer service to travelers worldwide.

###



















Vocus©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.







Related Foreign Exchange Press Releases

Filed Under: Foreign Exchange Tagged With: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Fire Festival of Santiago de Cuba, Another Great Education Tour by Authentic Cuba Travel for the Summer of 2011

March 1, 2012 By

Fire Festival of Santiago de Cuba, Another Great Education Tour by Authentic Cuba Travel for the Summer of 2011










(PRWEB) February 6, 2011

Authentic Cuba Travel has announced another great education tour for the summer of 2011. This time around one of the largest global events geared to the contributions of African decedents in the western hemisphere: the 31st Fire Festival of Santiago de Cuba, known as “Cuba’s Caribbean Capital”. The escorted tour will take place from July 1 to July 8, 2011 and will also visit Havana City.

This is a great opportunity for educators, historians, anthropologists, sociologists and scholars keen on African and Caribbean heritage to witness the profound influence of African culture on the social fabric of our Americas. Latin American historians, cultural explorers, and travellers who seek to experience the real Cuba and have a great time will also find the Fiesta del Fuego impossible to resist.

Casa del Caribe describes the Caribbean Festival as “a cultural and academic space for reflection on history and culture of our peoples and a gathering place to showcase the rich heritage of the region”.

The aim of the Fiesta del Fuego is to highlight the cultural expressions of the Caribbean region, which is well portrayed with the many parades and carnival held during the week. The Fiesta del Fuego is a very well-known street party, and is known to be celebrated by the majority of the streets in Santiago.

The Fiesta del Fuego also features several traditional and popular music bands that constantly perform through the day. The event is also host to dancers and folkloric groups that are part of the traditional Fire Fiesta procession. While these are the biggest draws of the festival, food stalls, children’s games and beer selling stands available during the Fiesta del Fuego, make the event a grand entertainment festival.

Tour Highlights:

> Attend the opening Parade of Festival del Fuego, one of the biggest and best free street parties in Cuba.

> Enjoy a Tumba Francesa performance by the Society of Tumba Francesa “La Caridad de Oriente”, declared Masterpiece of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO.

> Visit to Basilica de Nuestra Senora del Cobre, the country’s most sacred pilgrimage site since the Virgin of Charity is the patron saint of Cuba.

> Attend academic exchanges with speakers of the Casa del Caribe focused on Afrocuban and Afrocaribbean culture.

> Participate in the different musical venues taking place in the historical center. There are over 50 locations holding activities during the festival, many of them in natural open settings.

> Ferry boat ride to Cayo Granma, a picturesque little island of red-roofed dwellings just inside the Bay of Santiago de Cuba.

> Travel to Havana City, the Cuban Capital, considered the key to the Gulf of México since its foundation by the Spaniards in 1519.

For further information, please visit Authentic Cuba Travel/Festivals at

http://www.authenticubatours.com/cuba-festival-tours/fire-festival-tour.htm

Authentic Cuba Travel educational, cultural and nature tours are fully customizable to meet the needs of any organization, private group or business around any interest or theme.

Authentic Cuba Travel Group is a member and maintains affiliations with the following government agencies, institutions and professional organizations for consumer protection: TICO, ACTA, IATA TIDS, and others.

Authentic Cuba Travel

108 Earl Place

Toronto ON M4Y 3B9 Canada

877 280 2054 Toll Free North America

647 351 8191 Toronto and International

416-966-4987 Facsimile

http://www.authenticubatours.com Website

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Vocus©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.







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U.S. Department of Commerce Reports Remarkable Growth for the Travel and Tourism Industry in 2010

February 25, 2012 By

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Greek Mountains

San Francisco, CA (Vocus/PRWEB) February 09, 2011

International Tour Management Institute (ITMI), http://www.itmisf.com America’s premier training and certification program for professional tour directors and guides announced today that a record number of tour directors were hired during its annual Symposium in Atlanta in January.

ITMIs Symposium includes educational programs as well as a Marketplace, where tour operators can interview professional tour directors for forthcoming tours. “I came to Symposium because I need to double my tour director staff for the 2011 season,” said Claudia Brooks, from Contiki Holidays. Gabi Padilla and Marion Blaum from American Ring Travel stated: “We needed to hire foreign language tour guides and the Marketplace was an excellent way to find new talent.”

Many tour operators commented that 2010 was their best year ever and that 2011 has already exceeded their projections. Recently released U.S. Commerce Department statistics indicated that travel and tourism increased at an annual rate of 8 percent during the third quarter of 2010, marking the largest quarterly increase in U.S. travel and tourism spending since the first quarter of 2004. By comparison, overall gross domestic product (GDP) only increased 2.6 percent during third quarter of 2010.

“We are thrilled that the tourism industry is enjoying substantial growth,” states Ted Bravos, CEO of ITMI. “It is gratifying to know that our graduates are in high demand by the major tour and cruise operators and that many companies will only hire ITMI certified tour directors. We expect 2011 to be one of the best years in the company’s history.”

The ITMI Symposium in Atlanta attracted leading tour operators such as Smithsonian Student Travel, Tauck World Discovery, Globus Family of Brands, Collette Vacations, Princess and Holland America Cruise lines, Destination America and WorldStrides. Tour operators and tour directors exchanged insights and market intelligence in their endeavor to continually improve the quality of the programs and services offered to consumers.

About ITMI:

Since 1976, ITMI has been America’s premier training and certification program for tour directors and guides. For more information about ITMI contact Annemarie Osborne Annemarie.Osborne(at)gmail(dot)com, Joan Keddel travel(at)itmisf(dot)com or call (800) 442-4864 (415) 957-9489 or visit http://www.itmisf.com.

# # #





















Vocus©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.







Filed Under: Foreign Exchange Market Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,

U.S. Department of Commerce Reports Remarkable Growth for the Travel and Tourism Industry in 2010

February 25, 2012 By

U.S. Department of Commerce Reports Remarkable Growth for the Travel and Tourism Industry in 2010











Greek Mountains

San Francisco, CA (Vocus/PRWEB) February 09, 2011

International Tour Management Institute (ITMI), http://www.itmisf.com America’s premier training and certification program for professional tour directors and guides announced today that a record number of tour directors were hired during its annual Symposium in Atlanta in January.

ITMIs Symposium includes educational programs as well as a Marketplace, where tour operators can interview professional tour directors for forthcoming tours. “I came to Symposium because I need to double my tour director staff for the 2011 season,” said Claudia Brooks, from Contiki Holidays. Gabi Padilla and Marion Blaum from American Ring Travel stated: “We needed to hire foreign language tour guides and the Marketplace was an excellent way to find new talent.”

Many tour operators commented that 2010 was their best year ever and that 2011 has already exceeded their projections. Recently released U.S. Commerce Department statistics indicated that travel and tourism increased at an annual rate of 8 percent during the third quarter of 2010, marking the largest quarterly increase in U.S. travel and tourism spending since the first quarter of 2004. By comparison, overall gross domestic product (GDP) only increased 2.6 percent during third quarter of 2010.

“We are thrilled that the tourism industry is enjoying substantial growth,” states Ted Bravos, CEO of ITMI. “It is gratifying to know that our graduates are in high demand by the major tour and cruise operators and that many companies will only hire ITMI certified tour directors. We expect 2011 to be one of the best years in the company’s history.”

The ITMI Symposium in Atlanta attracted leading tour operators such as Smithsonian Student Travel, Tauck World Discovery, Globus Family of Brands, Collette Vacations, Princess and Holland America Cruise lines, Destination America and WorldStrides. Tour operators and tour directors exchanged insights and market intelligence in their endeavor to continually improve the quality of the programs and services offered to consumers.

About ITMI:

Since 1976, ITMI has been America’s premier training and certification program for tour directors and guides. For more information about ITMI contact Annemarie Osborne Annemarie.Osborne(at)gmail(dot)com, Joan Keddel travel(at)itmisf(dot)com or call (800) 442-4864 (415) 957-9489 or visit http://www.itmisf.com.

# # #





















Vocus©Copyright 1997-

, Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.
Vocus, PRWeb, and Publicity Wire are trademarks or registered trademarks of Vocus, Inc. or Vocus PRW Holdings, LLC.







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Filed Under: Foreign Exchange Tagged With: , , , , , , , , ,
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