CLIA TrainingFest coming to Vancouver, Toronto

Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) has included dates in Vancouver and Toronto for TrainingFest 2012, the touring combination of seminars and trade show that offers agents the opportunity to earn as many as 70 credits toward CLIA Cruise Counsellor Certification. In each location, the two-day program will enable participants to earn credits for up to four seminars and attend a Continental Breakfast Trade Show featuring CLIA member cruise lines. While CLIA-member agents receive a significant price break, non-CLIA travel agents are also invited to participate. TrainingFest 2012 will be held in Vancouver/Surry, Sept. 20-21; and Toronto, Sept. 27-28. Agents with less than two years of experience selling cruises are encouraged to sign up for the following seminars: Cruise Vacations: An Introduction, Principles of Professional Selling, Delivering Great Customer Service, and Power Selling Techniques. Other topics designed for more experienced sellers include: Travel for All: How to Find, Sell and Market Accessible Travel, a new program for 2012; Effective Presentation Skills; Group Sales Made Easy; and another new seminar for this year, 40 Best Practices for Travel Agent Success. The cost ranges from $45 for one seminar ($55 for non-members) to $110 for four seminars ($150 for non-members). All those attending at least one educational session are entitled to complimentary admission to the Continental Breakfast Trade Show. Agents wishing to attend only the trade show pay $10 ($15 for non-members). To register or to obtain more information, agents may visit CLIA’s web site at http://www.cruising.org or call 1-855-444-2542.