Thread: Elite Incentive Travel.com

I thought it about time I share with the VodaHost Community some of the results produced from my efforts using the wonderful tools and technologies made so available within the VodaHost Opportunity.

A Little Background
Most of the images used are from my personal collection. For instance, the header background was cropped from a picture taken on a trip to Antigua, and the "office shots" are the result of an over-zealous un-named "General" entertaining himself with a new digital camera to the angst of tolerant staff!

The Details
- VodaHost-ed Website on Dedicated IP Account
- 100% Blue Voda Created Website
- Complete Content Composition (including actual business program development), except where quoted
- Completion Time: under 20 hours, including conceptual/business design (does not excuse ignoring it for more than 20 days in between progress, however, Holidays included! LOL)

Admittedly, there is one page yet to complete: the "New Passport" page, which will link to a proprietary program page.
And, "VIP Vacations" and "Elite Specials" currently link to another site to fulfill until I am supplied with specific data to populate those pages as well.

But.....I thought it sufficient to be worthy of your perusal, and I count on you to find the errors I am myopically blind to!

Thank you for your considerations on our behalf.

www.EliteIncentiveTravel.com


With Regard,

Well! What can I say? There should be a BV hall of fame. The site is clean, easy to navigate & good on the eyes.
It has already started to make me think of getting away.
Real nice job, well done.

PS. Like the black one you were working on to.

Well done ! Easy to navigate, clear web site.
One thing: I was looking for examples or testimonials of some of the incentives or programs. Found something at the bottom of one page linking to other travel sites (too much time spent looking at the resorts- lol) and then on closer look "Our Programs"
For Passports, going to link to http://travel.state.gov/passport/passport_1738.html or your own services?

Like the site. Applause.

Wow Vasili! Very impressive, clean, informative and very well written.

Three things I noticed on the About Elite page
First paragraph: change industy's to industry's, change charcteristics to characteristics

Corporate Character - 2nd sentence didn't quite flow properly.... cognizant of what?

Other than that.... fantastic!

Great Job, very nice

CHRIS: Thank you for your "over-the-top" accolades....you make me blush! (The other "black site"?? LOL One of a half dozen critical projects, wouldn't you know!)

BILL: Thank you for your keen eye and approval......the "Passport" page is more than the regs, it is an actual program whereby Elite prepares applications with expedited services at a discount! As far as I know, there are only 5 other agancies qualified to offer it. And if you do find some "travel opportunity," let me know so I can put you in touch with the right person for VIP prices and services! LOL

DORI: I truly appreciate your pointing out my oversights....after a while of composing straight into BV, I get blurry-eyed, and, since I type with four fingers rather machine-like, I miss things. Your help is welcome! Thanks!

SHARON: Kind words, and so very brief! Atypical......anything you would suggest?

Vasili .... congrats to you and your accomplishments, you're certainly "mooving" right along .....

I can't help but think of the word "Priceless" .... I see a scenario for it ... interested??

Excellent, you know that, I will fine tooth comb this though, hoping to find the goose egg .... lol

Bravo my friend!!

oops .... this line- index page -

Discover How The Elite Incentive Travel Programs Can Enhance Your Success
Click or Call Today For Your Custom Designed Incentive Program Evaluation From Elite Travel Group

Doesn't click

Sure Mr V......Do mine!

very nice!

HOLLY: Of course, you flatter me in such a way that even I have a hard time standing myself! Thank you....and I do expect your help to, to find the cracks and things that make for less than "perfect page" (other than what I mentioned above)! Thank you for your time.....That line is not supposed to be a link: it's an invitation! LOL

KAREN MAC (via AIM): Thanks....your comments are valued, and you found some items rather obvious that only goes to show you how late I mess around nights! LOL And on we go.....

BEE-KEEPER BRO: Thanks......see? I am just a lowly BV-er, plunking away in some glass tower! LOL

Well, didn't you get my new responce!

Originally Posted by SChajin

Well, didn't you get my new responce!

Yes, good lady, I saw it.......but I have to jet downstairs to put out another "fire" in Customer Service......I'll actually comment tonight (I've been watching it develop for months...I love the concept! -- "Story" right??).

Originally Posted by Vasili

HOLLY: Of course, you flatter me in such a way that even I have a hard time standing myself! Thank you....and I do expect your help to, to find the cracks and things that make for less than "perfect page" (other than what I mentioned above)! Thank you for your time.....That line is not supposed to be a link: it's an invitation! LOL

KAREN MAC (via AIM): Thanks....your comments are valued, and you found some items rather obvious that only goes to show you how late I mess around nights! LOL And on we go.....

BEE-KEEPER BRO: Thanks......see? I am just a lowly BV-er, plunking away in some glass tower! LOL

I could have written your reply myself ... I knew you would tell me that is not supposed to click ........... lmao .........
Get downstairs already .....

I'm Talking About Barefoot! You are just tooooo Gooooood

Originally Posted by SChajin

I'm Talking About Barefoot! You are just tooooo Gooooood

Oh, Sweet Sharon! I am sure there are those who will be quick to stand contrary to that!!!
Very sure indeed!

I will go revisit the thread to see how you "resolved" the bag issue (transparent vs. color, was it?) and everything else.

I'm paying someone to rewamp the cataloge page, other than that I like it so far. Just want the catalog page right................ You are a doll

OK, I mean revamped if this is not spelled right....sorry just cant spell.

Really nice and clean V. Your sites are always really nice.

Originally Posted by cheryl20

Really nice and clean V. Your sites are always really nice.

Thank you Cheryl....you do pretty nifty work yourself!

Vasili: What can I say!! What a beautiful job! Incentive Travel is a hot item if package and sold properly and you have out done yourself with this website. I have bookmarked it for my own reference! I do have a few comments and found some mis-spelled words. I won't list them all here, as you may just want to run a spell checker over it.

1. When I click on the "more" buttons that you have (which I really like) my personal preference would be to have it open a new window. I was so wrapped up in reading that I forgot which nav button I originally clicked.

2. Under About Elite and the Credentials, I believe reknowned is mis-spelled. Isn't it renowned?

3. Under Incentive travel: These are what I believe to be mis spelled words....recieve, percieved, concurrs, benevolancy, predelections, ecclectic, restauraunt. Other places I noticed....scutiny, exclsuive, benefitting, soverign, granduer, semmingly, planatation. So..you may just want to double check.
Also is incalcuble and promotable and promotability, words? Your the expert on this...just wondering.

Well, I really tried hard to find more wrong. But just couldn't. Makes me want to go back and work on my pages more. Thanks alot!! lol

Cindy!
Thank you for taking the time to offer some input! Yes...composing directly in BV late at night with my limited typing skills often produces such errors.....I am too lazy to start in Word or some other utility that has Spell/Grammar-check. You caught me! I depend on the *****ness of others, I suppose!
(Yes, they are words, although uncommon, oft prone to mis-use, thus they are not usually in everyday dictionaries)

I will undertake all of the suggestions offered this evening before I escape my cavernous business address!
LOL

Vasili, what can I say that somebody hasn't already said?

I like the colors, loads up quickly, very informative, laid out well, easy to read, I would expect nothing less of you..............GREAT JOB! my friend.

ps: There is something, since we can't have a ring, can we have a trip? lol

Originally Posted by C L

ps: There is something, since we can't have a ring, can we have a trip? lol

It is good to see that people actually read websites after all, let alone drill in on the grand tour! LOL
I appreciate your review, Robyn...as you know!

Since you mentioned it.....( click on "Contests & Giveaways" )

Nice work my firend.

Vasili,
I like the layout and look. Very well done. As I would expect no less of you.

I have a friend who sells incentive programs including travel programs and I used to sell some of them for her (as I had an in at a couple businesses which it was very hard to get a foot in the door.) It is a wonderful and lucrative business. And they are great incentive gifts as the recipient gets to choose the right vacation for them.

I wish you great success with this (I'm thinking it's an offshoot of your wife's travel business?) and can't imagine it being anything other than completely successful.

I only skimmed text, so didn't look for grammar or typos.

I do recommend some changes in your page titles - as you'd be better off getting those important keywords before your name. I do like the way you've done them, but I also know the se's give more weight to the keywords first. And my friend increased her travel portion of her business considerably when she added the keyword vacation to travel incentive program.

Motoxxx: Thank you! As ususal, your brevity says more, and is heard clearly.....

BETH: I was wondering when you'd pop in! As you know, we could spend hours on this...LOL! I will indeed, give serious consideration to the arrangement of the page titles, especially if opting to delete the double-colons (which is one of the few delineators left that works acceptably). I cannot hope to include some of the very tempting KW's you allude to, however, as part of the whole narrow focus and content development (on the PP model) is so skewed toward this market segment, and when seen in the perspective of the entire Elite "suite" makes more value cast thus. I am so aware of every nuance that it is literally torturous for me to progress sometimes! i.e. that is exactly why I am waiting so impatiently to populate the VIP Vacations and Specials pages....everything else "vacation" and such actually is (or refers to) a one-way departing link --- which I was clever enough to actually re-name themselves!!
And yes, it is another "evolution" of her business.....Hmmmm! I wonder where she gets these ideas, the Plan, and all the wonderful structure???
(I am too old school, I guess .... She would say "well-trained," no doubt!)
It is more like resurrecting the Corporate Division I headed '98-2000, and putting a newer spin on my "Corporate Leisure Program."

LOLOL - and I spent 1/2 my day at the dentist's - which no more is necessary to say.

Since different pages should be otimized with different words - you'll well be able to use the word vacation on another page. I, too, like the use of :: - although I've switched to using the | most of the time now, only because it cuts down a character :) - Amazing the reasons we do things.

No comment on the "well-trained" or "old school" - especially not on "old".

Uuff da!
(I must have an old keyboard....I have never been able to simply type that anywhere....I can do brackets though!! No? No brackets? ... see?? .... just when I was getting started)

It's the key above the enter key, used with the shift key.

Originally Posted by Bethers

It's the key above the enter key, used with the shift key.

I know, you silly goose! I was trying to see if you were enjoying the meds or not! Take the night off already! LOLOL

Sleep - you want me to sleep??? Come morning I'll do that :)

Doing this with no meds - am I silly or stoooopid???

Hiys Vasili,

Your travel website looks fab! as I would expect...only one thing stands out for me...as you know I have a thing about colours and the colours of your site are wonderful all except 1....the title ..Elite Incentive Travel...why oh why did you choose that bright blue? not classy as i'd expect...for me it just spoils the look of the pages doesnt fit in with the rest of your colours ..darker Aqua maybe? ....
I know I know, its just a small thing but thats my opinion.. for what its worth.

The rest is just perfect...well done Vas really nice work ;o)

Hi Vasili,
Not sure if you was aware! That the no right click on the pages is working in an odd way? (viewing in firefox)
If I right click on a page, I get the pop up warning, OK. But as soon as I click to get rid of the warning, another window pops up to view page source? & sometimes to save image.
Either way the page source can be viewed & wasn’t sure if you wanted this.

Keep the good ideas coming, we can all learn.

PS. The template for this site would also have a nice feel for health or fitness.
Your be selling templates to BV customers soon. (Eh! Why not) lol

LINDA: Thank you for taking the time to bounce around the site..... I originally had the logo just as you mentioned (really!), but for the sake of continuity between the "Elite Suite" and especially for reproductive purposes in marketing and promotion (business cards, flyers, ads, etc.) I compromised and went with Reflex Blue (a standard) that alows for crisper reproduction. Everything else would have washed out, or appeared greyish-blue and too light to effect the prominence needed. And, as a "Magazine" or "Newspaper" format, using pantone-based colors made more sense.....I spent a lot of time wrestling with the entire scheme (making over 8 mock index pages) before I gave up and just did something! LOL

CHRIS: First time I've heard of this effect.....and I have no answer. Although it may seem childish, on sites like this I use the RC-Deny script originally from Garry to help thwart proprietary images from ending up everywhere, since this site already is generating good traffic (on the business side, and we all know that salaried "webmasters" are not as creative as we generally are! LOL). I could have used the 'overlay' method, but I'm getting lazy in my old age....

I have an enforceable Privacy and Infringement Policy to give some teeth to these preventive measures, but as far as resolving this issue, I am out of my element...... maybe my wonderful VH peers might help me in this technical dilemma??
It might be only a FireFox issue....I do know that the script is primarily for IE users (the dominant utility), and as such, remains my primary focus for using it.

PS: You must have X-ray vision Chris! Be on the lookout for the unveiling of "ProWebs Unlimited" very soon indeed, same Bat-channel!

Just don't put the amateurish no right click up - as the people who really would look to steal - wouldn't be stopped by that anyway.

Sorry, Vasili, but I really can't stand seeing that on any professional website - I immediately think it's not professional anymore. And Karen and I have been known to copy and paste code from sites that do that just to annoy them LOLOL

Like I said, although "childish" it still serves a purpose --although to newly observable extent!

That does not mean that you nor Karen have to come down to my level and act like typical third grade girls and spoil my clay project just because you can! LOL

Oh, but that "because we can" makes it so much more fun to play in the sandbox.

Hmmmmm....and you wonder why guys are just as fascinated with frogs and crawly things?
LOL

I believe all the spelling errors have been erased, and a small fix has been temporarily made to the Menu (to avoid 404's) while Content is being specified for me to complete the missing 3 pages.
Will post next when ready for final review.

Thank each of you for taking the time to proof my work and to offer suggestions on how to improve. And, many have been overly gracious, I fear!
I value your input, and your ongoing support is always sincerely appreciated!

Greetings, old friend!

I remember when you were still a Corporal! Now look at you: you are a General of the Forum!!

And you are producing sites like this? I am pleased to see that you have found Blue Voda suitable to demonstrate your knowledges to your peers in such epitomable fashion......congratulations. And how very lucky for everyone else too.

Trying to figure out who I am? Recall one of your earliest questions about eCommerce?? Think of ...... "distribution lists".......LOL

Interesting!
Few would remember something like that. (Let me see if I can!)

I can think of only two possibilities: Tomassan or Cliff?

And thank you for your compliments......it just goes to show you what you can accomplish with the right tools and a refined vision!

Interesting, why did you use the Mexico Tourism Boards Logo and map. Being that you are so worried about people using "your" images. It is clearly copyrighted. Just wondering. You once tole me that you know how to do these thing, just wondered how.

Originally Posted by choco777

Interesting, why did you use the Mexico Tourism Boards Logo and map. Being that you are so worried about people using "your" images. It is clearly copyrighted. Just wondering. You once tole me that you know how to do these thing, just wondered how.

George!
What on Earth are you talking about?
I have not used any maps or logos on any of my sites I am not entitled to use whatsoever!
>> Nor are any of the elements you mention used on any "travel" site I have done for anyone else!
(And despite continued so-called "best advice" I continue to use this script whenever it is deemd feasible, until I find a more refined solution!)

If you are reaching back to the site mock-up I did for you, I merely used whatever resources that might have been on your page....in fact, if you recall, I never used any maps in any effort I made for your benefit!
(If you wish to review this as true, simply visit the mock-ups I did for you here: tobasco | tobasco2 | tobasco3 | tobasco3b )

I truly believe you are confused. Or, are you simply taking advantage of my extended abscences?

However you look at it, I think you owe a public explanation to myself and to your VodaPeers lest anyone get an incorrect idea, don't you think?

WOW!!!! this site is amazing. Talk about a project! man, that must have been a lot of planning to put it all together. Awesome job!!

Nice site - did notice that the page titled "TIConnect Search Page" needs to be centered. everything else looked and worked good

Hi Eric! I'm going to stick my nose in here with regards to choco's statement. I wonder if maybe he is seeing the VIP vacations link to Mexico and seeing the map on the travel impressions site, thinking that it is your site? Just a thought. btw, i really like the mockups you did for him. very nice...(where were you when I needed you??lol)

Exactly
Cindy the map with the VIP is from The Mexican Tourism Board and it is there logo. But there was a mention to Sharon about copyright and using the Java Cup. Didn't see that I suppose.

Travel Impressions is the scond largest wholesaler in the world, and are fully vested with every tourism/government board and official entity as legitimate providers. (There are literally countless concerns trying to make it into the TI world, or at least their online presence, as I had proposed for you at one point by taking advantage of my long-standing relationship with them).
The TI hosted solution that has been established for Elite Travel is one of less than 10 globally that have been created for individual agencies, and is not my area of responsibility. Your comments about maps and logos being used do not apply.

Secondly, George, Elite Travel is a fully accredited travel agency with IATA, CLIA, and other industry organizations, and enjoys special status within the industry as well (had you looked as carefully at the "Credentials" page as you pored over affiliate and linked sites, you would have noticed that Elite was the sole 2006 "Best of the Best Worldwide Agency") whereas the "Journeys Happen" site (Cindy's) is actually promoting a "network travel" business opportunity (similar to MLM and other membership networks). There is a huge difference being an agency individually subscribed and accredited using logos in contrast to an "approved" network allowing associated individuals using the same inappropriately (whether they are aware of it or not). I merely pointed this out to avoid any potential problems later.

And lastly, George, putting a distinctive logo for something as recognizable as a software company that specializes in web creation (Java) on a website (Sharon's) is not only a clear copyright infringement, it reeks of ignorance. Unlike using it in print ads, don't you suppose that the online audience would more likely recognize the logo and it being used improperly? Come on! I prefer to think my peers have more sense than that, and regularly strive to protect them from such potential liability.


It is obvious that you have some grudge or predilection that is clouding your perspective. I ask that you refrain from such posting unless you are certain that what you comment on is true, factual, or reasonable. Especially when it concerns me! I am amazed at how quick you are to say "Exactly!" without any acknowledgement of error or misunderstanding on your part. How sad.....

Originally Posted by Hester

WOW!!!! this site is amazing. Talk about a project! man, that must have been a lot of planning to put it all together. Awesome job!!

Thank you, Mr. H!
Really, the most difficult aspect was composing the Content after having had to "design" the business model/incentive programs.
Using Blue Voda and the technologies available at VodaHost has always been a snap!

Believe you me, there is a lot coming from me right around the corner!

MR. Vasili,
I am not alluding to any maps made for me, the map is on the page with the Mexican Board of Tourist's logo, on your Mexico VIP page, now the images you added to the "mock layouts were not yours and certainly not mine....I know the difference in the Huipil wore by Guatemalans and other Amer-indian tribes, so that image would not be mine nor the guide pic. of someone in Cakumul a site I nor many others visit, so never had photos from there and lastly a pic. of a lady struggling up the face of Tikal also in Guatemala. I told you this about lifting straight from the Mex. Tour Brd. at this time(in reference to something you wanted me to use) and you said "don't worry I known how to do this"...I can point out the post if needed, (remember I told you that I record every e-mail I send and every, except hi, post that I make)so was it the first time? The pictures you used of mine would have been either taken by ME or I have license to use them. However the photos on MY site with help from LE displays the same, Photos taken by me, some by the way HAVE found their way to other sites, I say God Bless "em use them and make some bucks or just have a nice site, what is it to me, niothing except when someone trys to police the forum and accuse and treat )by inuendos a very nice lady as you have , yeah I speak up. I have no agenda that concerns you, no really bad feelings, nor grudges....for what? Appologise, Eric my man, think again. your friend.

> The pictures I used in the mocks I prepared were in fact aquired from a photobank that I subscribe to, and were royalty-free as well as fully distributable. You did point out that they were Guatemalen, but since they were for demonstration purposes only, the point was moot.
> The pictures I used of yours were pulled straight from the webpage you were working on at the time, and since they too were used for demonstration purposes only, that was never an issue either, right?
> Again, the "maps"....and again, if the Mexican Board of Tourism is paying TI for advertising and in support of the relationship they mutually enjoy, what is it to you, me, or the guy down the street if a map attributed to them is used on a site with permission? The TI booking engine is a hosted affiliate site created for Elite under TI's direct auspices, and that is that!
BTW: As far as using the Mexican BOT Logo...it is allowed as long as it is kept in the reference of travel, tourism, and with direct relationship to developing Mexican tourism (according to the posted regulations).
> I do not throw around innuendos, George. On the contrary. I am direct and do not hesitate to raise my hand, stand up, or if need be to interrupt someone when they are talking if what is being said or done is a problem.
This is one of the great benefits of experience, maturity, and personal knowledge. I will not make guesses, postulations, or inferrances like some, and am keen to stay out of things unless I know for certain I am right: I do not "police" the forum, but am quick to offer another perspective that should be useful to avoid potential liability later on (and it is always based in fact). I did not pounce on either Cindy nor Sharon, but rather offered comments based on my genuine concern for their continued success.
Apparently I am "reading the book" when others merely scan the cover?

And, I have never been dis-genuine toward you or anyone else in VodaTalk, George.....you know that. That will not change, and I will always remain supportive of each as we strive on our unque paths to progress. Think again? Hmmmm..... isn't it obvious by now that I think quite a bit as it is?
LOL

Time to move forward?

Well we've had our say. The MTB by the way does require the word mexico tourism board to be shopw below their logo.
I'll get you the exact wording as I know the Sub-directory of Culture, he is my brother-in-law and can easily get the papers.
Maybe in away I was sticking up for others,who are too kind to respond, and never did I mention Cindy's name...Hmmm.

Goodnight Eric, and my best wishes are with you. BUT I be list'nun!

Originally Posted by asirimarco

Nice site - did notice that the page titled "TIConnect Search Page" needs to be centered. everything else looked and worked good

Thanks, Ann!
The TI page is beyond my control, but I am pleased to be one of the select few to offer this superior online booking utility.

In truth, it was the forerunner for Expedia (the WorldSpan ticketing system based utility), as I negotiated with the owners of TI for over a year in 1999 to develop it and secure it for Elite. It was later that American Express bought TI and took the product back to WorldSpan networks that they released Expedia!

Eric:

This may not be the place to share this, but since YOU decided to bring me and my website into your comments to George and comment on my business on this thread and forum, I feel I need to clarify a few issues with regard to my journeyshappen website. I must say, I’m very disappointed by your comments concerning my travel business. I have worked very hard in a very short period of time to be successful with my internet, homebased travel business. I expected more from you as I have always respected you, your work and insightfulness. But I just can’t let this go without comment.

First of all, your comment, “ There is a huge difference being an agency individually subscribed and accredited using logos in contrast to an "approved" network allowing associated individuals using the same inappropriately (whether they are aware of it or not).” Where do you get off on this? Is this where you are trying to look out for my best interest? It doesn't sound that way to me. YTB is a highly respected Travel Agency with all the legal and important accreditations that you list on your website. Our Vendors (including Travel Impressions…yes we have a TI hosted solution as well…so we must be in that elite 10 you speak of…) LOVE YTB. Why? Because we sell Travel! That is our #1 Business.

You implied above that I am using logos inappropriately and also in another thread that I was using the CLIA logo inappropriately. My question to you…How in the world would you know? For your information I am personally CLIA certified. I have taken numerous CLIA courses on line and in person and am working towards my ACC and MCC Certifications. The other logos on my site, such as The Wynn, South Africa, Las Vegas, MGM,Mirage and Malaysia were open for me to use, when I completed the certification classes with Travel Agent University. I am also certified with Fairmont Hotels and US Airways Vacations and am working on more. So to say and imply that I am using these inappropriately is incorrect on your part.

Secondly…YTB (Your Travel Biz) is a ¼ Billion dollar travel company that is publicly traded and is doing quite well, I might add. The company actually has two unique business opportunities that we promote. First and foremost is the TRAVEL BUSINESS, doing business under the name of YTB Travel Network. We are called RTA’s. This is where we sell travel through our online booking engine, as well as dealing directly with Vendors. Yes, Eric…I actually call up Cruise lines, Resorts, Consolidators, etc. and book travel for clients! The second opportunity is that of an Independent Marketing Rep. (That is the MLM or network marketing side that you speak of) What “IMR’s” do is to sign up other individuals or associations that want to have their own Referring Internet Travel booking site as well. I can choose to do one or the other business opportunities or I can do both. I have chosen to do both. If you look at my website you will see that over 90% of my website has to do with selling travel, yet you imply above that ALL I do is MLM.

This is much longer than I intended, so I’ll end now by simply quoting one of your lines above…. “I ask that you refrain from such posting unless you are certain that what you comment on is true, factual, or reasonable.”

HEYYYYYYY Im making popcorn, and I got front row seats! Anyone want to sit beside me. :)

Karen

I'm coming..do you have butter on that popcorn!! lol
thx karen....I think this thread needed that!!

Of Course! Heart attack in a bag is the only way to go! :)

Karen

Originally Posted by Dream Lady

Eric:First of all, your comment, “ There is a huge difference being an agency individually subscribed and accredited using logos in contrast to an "approved" network allowing associated individuals using the same inappropriately (whether they are aware of it or not).” Where do you get off on this? Is this where you are trying to look out for my best interest? It doesn't sound that way to me. YTB is a highly respected Travel Agency No, they are not: YTB is very careful to always present themselves as a "travel network" to maintain legal accuracy. (refer to the YTB corporate site) And, their level of respect in the industry is a matter of opinion, I suppose, and notwithstanding, as a network, they are not included in industry awards or recognition. with all the legal and important accreditations that you list on your website. Our Vendors (including Travel Impressions…yes we have a TI hosted solution as well…so we must be in that elite 10 you speak of…)
Sorry, Cindy....that is an incorrect statement> YTB's 'booking engines' are powered by Travelocity, as a private network utility (the link for this affiliate utility is go.travelpn.com, where the "pn" means "private network" and Travelocity is abbreviated) This is the actual Travelocity script identifier: <script src="/jsp/travelocity/common/scripts/Util.js" type="text/javascript" language="javascript"></script>
Please show evidence of TI working with YTB.
You implied above that I am using logos inappropriately and also in another thread that I was using the CLIA logo inappropriately. My question to you…How in the world would you know? For your information I am personally CLIA certified. I have taken numerous CLIA courses on line and in person and am working towards my ACC and MCC Certifications. That may be so (all CLIA approved individuals must take the test) but it is issued under YTB charter. And, this means qualification as a "Cruise Counselor" and is not to be confused with being a "travel agent" under the auspices of IATAN (thus, YTB's repeated clarification of terms as "referrer of travel" or even "referring agent." The affiliation you enjoy with YTB referring business is via your Membership (you pay a fee to "belong" which defines the "network" status of YTB).The other logos on my site, such as The Wynn, South Africa, Las Vegas, MGM,Mirage and Malaysia were open for me to use, when I completed the certification classes with Travel Agent University. I am also certified with Fairmont Hotels and US Airways Vacations and am working on more. So to say and imply that I am using these inappropriately is incorrect on your part. Never mentioned anything about your personal familiarity program achievements!
Secondly…YTB (Your Travel Biz) is a &#188; Billion dollar travel company that is publicly traded and is doing quite well, I might add. The company actually has two unique business opportunities that we promote. First and foremost is the TRAVEL BUSINESS, doing business under the name of YTB Travel Network. We are called RTA’s. This is where we sell travel through our online booking engine, as well as dealing directly with Vendors. Yes, Eric…I actually call up Cruise lines, Resorts, Consolidators, etc. and book travel for clients! The second opportunity is that of an Independent Marketing Rep. (That is the MLM or network marketing side that you speak of) What “IMR’s” do is to sign up other individuals or associations that want to have their own Referring Internet Travel booking site as well. I can choose to do one or the other business opportunities or I can do both. I have chosen to do both. If you look at my website you will see that over 90% of my website has to do with selling travel, yet you imply above that ALL I do is MLM. Not true, Cindy. My only mentions were to the use of a logo, and the differences between the types of organizations, and whether the individual use (it is your site, not YTB's) inappropriately inferred status that was not there. I mentioned the difference between networks, "memberships," and agency classifications as illustrating how clarity and accuracy is paramount, and could in truth be a potential liability.
“I ask that you refrain from such posting unless you are certain that what you comment on is true, factual, or reasonable.”
I have no problem "paracticing what I preach" as you can see.

Oh! And Karen? I am sure you can find entertainment in other ways, can't you?

Cindy:

I stand corrected: Travel Impressions does indeed provide a booking utility (their Crusader product) to YTB under the "Vacations" category as an affiliate function.
As a registered "Seller of Travel" in the State of Florida, YTB has the qualifications for this affiliation fulfillment, and since they are not an agency, they must use both wholsalers (i.e. TI) and direct issuers (Travelocity) to provide air in addition to other arrangements.

I am not above admitting error, you know!

Did somebody mention popcorn in here? Where's the popcorn?

Apparently all over my lap......I missed the entire first half!
(new pants, too...)

Well it really sounds to me like we all need a vacation ... with all this travel talk, who is gonna send the tickets, that's the stuff that is important, more so than who this and who that ... now who is mailing all the vodaliens the travel tickets, they can all be sent in care of me ... how about that ... okay, standing by waiting for the tickets ....

P.S.

I tinks we will all go to Alaska, because we are all "hot" enough ...

Woo hoo ... let's go now!!!!

and is there ice cream too? I love ice cream..

Originally Posted by Vasili

Apparently all over my lap......I missed the entire first half!
(new pants, too...)

Were they from Frenchys, lol ..... no need to worry then right???

lol

hmmm picks up all the popcorn, hands Vasili new pair of pants, put name in the basket for a window seat on the trip to Alaska, any drinks on this trip? Good one Liz, mmmmm ice-cream.

Originally Posted by larazovich

and is there ice cream too? I love ice cream..

Well, only if you bring your cow, lol ........

Did you see that cow I put in the lounge in Astrals valentine jokes,

go see that, it is hilarious .....


This thread is turning nice and smooth ... just creamy ..... lol

No I didn't see the cow, I'm in the hot thread, hot popcorn lots of travel. lol

Lightening up.

Showing Some Love For Everyone!!

Originally Posted by Vasili

Oh! And Karen? I am sure you can find entertainment in other ways, can't you?

Well I could but reality TV is so much more entertaining when you somewhat know the characters on set!

Whats wrong you dont like butter on your popcorn?

Karen

awesome

Eric: I feel like I’m back in my College debate class! lol

I’m going to try and say this a little clearer, so that you understand. YTB International, Inc. has 3 wholly owned subsidiaries: REZconnect Technologies (owns, maintains and develops online and other booking technologies for suppliers within the travel industry. It also franchises brick and mortar travel agencies). YTB Travel Network (The TRAVEL AGENCY, books travel transactions). Your TravelBiz.Com, Inc. (markets online travel agencies on behalf of YTB Travel Network, Inc. by use of sales reps).

To quote you above, your response, when I said they were a highly respected Travel Agency, you said: No, they are not:YTB is very careful to always present themselves as a "travel network" to maintain legal accuracy. (refer to the YTB corporate site) And, their level of respect in the industry is a matter of opinion, I suppose, and notwithstanding, as a network, they are not included in industry awards or recognition.
Ok, Eric, then I ask you this. What do you call a company, that owns a 122,000 sq. ft. building in Wood River, IL, has a staff of over 160 employees (many who are TRAVEL agents), whose 2006 TRAVEL only revenues were over $52 million, paid out over $2,6 million in TRAVEL commissions, conducts 2 TRAVEL Industry Trade shows a year which includes the top TRAVEL vendors in the U.S., and has received numerous TRAVEL industry awards over the last 3 years including Globus, Funjet, ***** Vacations, Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines, Holland America Cruise Lines, Celebrity Cruise lines and has received Carnival Cruises Lines Top Award, the Pinnacle Award, 2 years in a roll? Let’s see….gosh, I would call that a TRAVEL AGENCY!

By the way…the ”corporate site” you so conveniently linked to? That is not YTB”s corporate site. That is a demo version of the marketing site that all the marketing reps have. As far as respect in the travel industry???? You are right and I stand corrected, since our competitors may not respect us, but then again, maybe they do! As you said…a matter of opinion.

You are somewhat correct in that we partner with Travelocity for some of our bookings, but also with swiftgoft.com, ***** Vacations, Travel Impressions and others since they are partners with us and so when you click on various components to book a vacation or travel you will be taken to their booking engine. Just as your Elite Travel sites use, vacationport.net, and Travel Impressions, etc. As far as evidence of YTB working with Travel Impressions (TI), well you answered that in your next post, I guess.

As far as my CLIA designation. I don’t believe I ever said that having the CLIA designation is the same as being a Travel Agent. YTB Travel Network is an IATAN accredited Agency and as far as me personally….I hope by the middle of this year to also have my own personal IATAN number….yes Eric…again…I sell TRAVEL, full time and so when my commissions reach the required minimum of $5,000, I will apply to have my own IATAN card. I do not use the IATAN logo on my journeyshappen website, since I am not personally certified yet.As far as your last comment…well, I think I’ve covered that above.

Eric…I do not want to debate you on this subject any longer. You clearly have shown what you know and what you don’t know. I’m sorry that your thread on your great website “Elite Incentive Travel.com” which as I commented previously is wonderful….has been turned into a circus debate, complete with popcorn and ice-cream! Lol

My hands are iching....someone is talking about me! I'm for popcorn........yea!

Cindy,

You ask – “What do you call a company, that owns a 122,000 sq. ft. building in Wood River, IL, has a staff of over 160 employees” and makes the kind of money you mention? “A pretty House maketh not a Home” Still … impressive!

Having offered further “qualifications” by stating “2 TRAVEL Industry Trade shows a year which includes the top TRAVEL vendors in the U.S.(Funny....vendors actually pay to attend Elite's events in addition to offering prizes), and has received numerous TRAVEL industry awards in the last 3 years ...” I am compelled to point out these mentioned here are from vendors, not anything 'industry' “including Globus (the "Grey"-hound of tour operators LOL) Funjet (the vertical booking program run by an airline) ***** Vacations (a charter operator serving customers willing to risk cancelled flights to get cheapest possible package), and" all the cruise line vendors you list. Earning Carnival’s Pinnacle Award is significant, as they most definitely enjoy all the business you swing their way! (That’s a lot of Carnival cruises! LOL)

You offer these “proofs” as a means to “qualify” YTB as a bona fide Travel Agency? ... Being a “top seller” is not the criteria. That is why IATAN has 2 different programs. Being Airline Appointed/stock /ticketing, having qualified reservationists, being bonded, and having the fiduciary accountabilities in place provide the criteria to be a “full-service, bona fide” agency and not just a Seller of Travel. Gee….with so much money, it seems to make sense to put up the bond and qualify at least one of the many “agents” to use a reservation system to ticket air in-house (criteria for Agency status, part of being “full service”), thereby both better manage the tons of business their reps do, but to also make better profitability. Why is it not so with YTB? They seem content to be simply remain a TSI (Travel Sales Intermediary) Agency. Personally, I believe it is because they charge their representatives fees and membership, forever confining them to the “Network”/TSI status they so carefully declare now. What do you think? Maybe you have the resources to share a definitive answer with us…..

But! To illustrate this on a more common level, since you hinted at sales being a “qualifier”: was YTB (or any of the related companies) present at the Melia-Cancun for the Travel Impressions Awards (the respected wholesaler/consolidator we share that is above “vendor” status) this past January?
I do not recall their participation.
Elite occupies less than 5,000 sqf and yet with less than 35 employees beat out the likes of AAA, American Express (the parent company of TI itself), and so many other agencies as sole worldwide top seller.

I should have been more accurate in my original post also: Elite not only utilizes the “hosted” solutions from TI and a few other Preferred Providers, but also actually has the script to run online booking on our own site, something rather more limited. (It’s not something you see often).

Qualifying for a TSI (Travel Sales Intermediary) ID card with IATAN would be wonderful recognition of your tireless efforts, dedication, and obvious passion for the travel business (the single most trait of success), and would be the mark of professionalism your customers would certainly appreciate! I am confident you will qualify in no time! The TSI program means you don’t have to personally learn to use a reservation/ticketing system (the criteria of being a bona-fide accredited Agent), and can continue to rely on affiliate providers to fulfill your client’s travel needs with confidence using the proven successful system YTB has made available!

I see only success after success for you Cindy!
You have found something you enjoy immensely, and can create the financial rewards you seek. That is rare nowadays, I think. More power to you!

Thank you Eric for your more thought out response. Please understand that I in no way intended this to be a comparision of Elite with YTB. I don't believe there is a comparision. They are operating on two very different levels. I will not continue this discussion with you on this topic here in your thread as I think there is a better time and place for this. If you are really intrested in knowing more about YTB, I welcome your comments, suggestions and questions, as I can only learn more myself when I am challenged. You can email me. Thank you also for the vote of confidence! I love the travel business and this was my foot in the door. As I have said in the past and will continue to say....Your websites are superb and very professional. Keep up the great work and keep a smile on your face.

Mr. V. I think your comment was a little harsh don't you! ((Sharon's) is not only a clear copyright infringement, it reeks of ignorance. ) That was my first site and I was very proud of it and would never take something if I thought it was wrong.

Thank you George for sticking up for me.

Originally Posted by SChajin

Mr. V. I think your comment was a little harsh don't you! ((Sharon's) is not only a clear copyright infringement, it reeks of ignorance. ) That was my first site and I was very proud of it and would never take something if I thought it was wrong. Thank you George for sticking up for me.

It might appear so, being taken out of context like this, Sharon, but let's take another look at the whole:
And lastly, George, putting a distinctive logo for something as recognizable as a software company that specializes in web creation (Java) on a website (Sharon's) is not only a clear copyright infringement, it reeks of ignorance. Unlike using it in print ads, don't you suppose that the online audience would more likely recognize the logo and it being used improperly? Come on! I prefer to think my peers have more sense than that, and regularly strive to protect them from such potential liability.

This was made in repeated response to George's confusion and mixing up the details between sites/people/and so-called "issues" he was so bent on belaboring.....that is why you can sense a more contrite "explanation" from me as I emphasized the logical foundations of why I even mentioned it at all (way back when in your thread, remember? My original mention was short, sweet, and more of a "heads-up"). And, if I recall, you were appreciative of my nudge.....

Sometimes it really is best to read threads through rather than pick apart posts individually!

Time to make progress rather than point fingers at ghosts?

Ok, I may still be tired.......The first time I just scanned it and just wanted popcorn...LOL Just in from a buying trip from China and I read it again, I remember the nudge, if you looked you would see it gone. Doesn't matter, I don't care I just felt you were harsh.... again I don't care

Well done Vasili

I wish I had half your knowledge, I guess I'm lucky we are able to pick your brains in this Forum.

PHIL: Thanks...every little bit of encouragement seems to mean more nowadays!

Your site too, has come a long way from when you first published! I look forward to your newest round of developments (pun intended).
LOL

Hey Vasili,

Don't like the fact that you have text all over your banners and pictures, maybe consider making it a .jpg / .gif format.

The 100% satisfaction sticker has a gray background, the fact that you have a white background - it doesn't go with the flow if you know what I am talking about - consider making it white.

JEREMY: Are you in fact referring to EliteIncentiveTravel.com?

The pictures used in this site are not only all JPG's, but are properly titled and file-optimized. Selectively using highly composed text over pictures not only keeps the site cleaner, but is proven more visually effective to convey directable results. (Advertising & Graphics 101)
I supposed as a "web professional" you might find something more substantial to mention (I hope to find such correctable instances) rather than personal preferences?

And no, Jeremy, the Satisfaction Seal is actually from the BV bank, and has a white background (find it yourself!). Whenever JPG's are reduced, often the colors shift a bit, necessitating the adjustment of gamma, and then only to a point. It is such minutia on this site that I guess I am grateful you took such a fine tooth comb approach to your review!
LOL

VASILLI...

Let me tell you something .. when I give you an opinion it doesn't just mean it is a personal opinion, I am giving you help and suggestions of what you should do from my experiences and schooling.

When you have a picture or a banner with TEXT ontop of it to give it the effect that it looks like a banner or what ever you are trying to do, it does not leave a PROFESSIONAL / CLEAN look and IS IN FACT harder to make out .. might I ask where your PROVEN results are?

Also, guessing you are a real professional now, if you reduced the size of the image .. didn't you know it was going to have defects? .. so then why isn't it fixed?

So you might be so grateful after all that I took a good look at your website ... a little remorse?

No.....no "remorse" whatsoever!
(I sold ProMedia Unlimited in 1984 after it got to be too big for me to handle: do a search in AdWeek to learn more about my "experience" and exposure....2 searches, one with my name would help!)
The "banner" you are referring to? The "header"? I purposely muted it...to better match the colors, and to embolden the "logo" which is SE-friendly (being textually based). I do know how to resolve images properly, Jeremy, evidenced by all of the others perfectly presenting.....or could you not tell? Don't you "feel" the difference in how the combination of images portray a theme....how the central large images create the instinctive focus? Are they too, not up to your spec, or is there after all a well-composed balance throughout?

Enough! We both have greater things to do, don't we?

Only trying to help :D

Jeremy, the images are all in .jpg format, what format do you think they are in??

While it is nice of you to guess who the professional is, perhaps you as a professional might see with all your technical and schooling knowledge, that all of the images have been optimized and in the case of the images on this site, the jpeg format is more efficient. If the .gif format was used, the images would be of poor quality, regardless of the viewer’s display. The dithering seen in jpeg images does not compromise image quality any more than if you dithered the images to 256-color .gifs yourself. If you standardize on jpeg images, the majority of your viewers will see full-colour photos.

The image compression in the GIF file format is less efficient than JPEG compression

Advantages of JPEG images
- Huge compression ratios mean faster download speeds
- Jpeg produces excellent results for most photographs and complex images
- Jpeg supports full-color (24 bit, true color) image

Advantages of GIF images
- gif is the most widely supported graphics format on the web
- gifs of diagrammatic images look better than jpegs
- gif supports transparency and interlacing

One only needs to look at your site to see you have used these very same methods of adding text on top of banners, headers, etc., that you are displaying on your very own website. I don't understand why you would make such a statement. AND aren't banners, logos, etc. a work of art and a matter of ones taste or perspective??

I don’t see any grey background on the 100% satisfaction sticker? In fact I copied the image (ha ha Vasili) and sent it to myself through my email. White background, and the image is a white background – no grey on my machine.

I wonder Jeremy, since you are using Vista, IE7, or possibly even a wide screen, if that is what is distorting these images and causing ghosting of some?? Do you think?? Something to consider in your line of work, don't you think???

I dont know.. but in addition to throwing popcorn, I am investing in LARGE SCHOOL BUS STEERING WHEELS! I will sell them for $250 each and they will attatch to the middle of BACKS so they can be DRIVEN varrrrrrrrrrrrrooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo oom!

This will be followed by Chest Vests with buttons that say.. "PUSH MY BUTTONS" and watch me fly!

Karen

U gonna git rich n here! Ummmmm soooooooooooooo many buttons!!!

I Know, Mine were pushed and I didn't even ask for it!

And you didn't deserve to be spoken to in that manner.

Thanks George, I agree I had no reason to be in that post. Thank you for sticking up for me.

Anytime, any place Sharon. When something is wrong it is wrong.

Hey Sharon,

I'll stick up for you too ...... we have big broad shoulders right ... lol
Me thinks sometimes things look worse in writing that what they appear or should appear to be. With that said, I don't believe Vasili meant to hurt your feelings in any way at all, (at least I should hope not) I believe it is the "exact way" in which he words things, at times, that appears to be the problem. We are not all "perfect" right!!
Anyway girl, you got my "muscles" behind you too!!

I do not believe Vasili would do that either, also certainly hope not. He is an intregal part of this forum and with all his writing skills, sometimes things look differently than they are. That being said I stick by everything that I have ever posted. LE u r right..... friends are sometimes like music in the effect they can have on others and you are my favorite song.

CHOCO

And Choco you are right ... and I believe everyone here is an integral part of this forum. It's a wonderful place this Vodaland .. it can only enhance us all .. and that's so "sweet" what you say ...I believe everyone here is an asset to this community ... It's the greatest place!

We are All



Cause Voda Rocks!!

Hi guys thanks, I don't believe he meant to hurt my feelings, but I believe he was wrong to post my misgivings. I believe he does not think of others..only to prove himself right. My feelings and mine alone. I don't want him to use me or my site as an example anymore. I'm still learning and I saw his credentials..What can I say ....he has been around since....forever. Thanks for your support........I still love his sites!

Originally Posted by LadyEye

Jeremy, the images are all in .jpg format, what format do you think they are in??

While it is nice of you to guess who the professional is, perhaps you as a professional might see with all your technical and schooling knowledge, that all of the images have been optimized and in the case of the images on this site, the jpeg format is more efficient. If the .gif format was used, the images would be of poor quality, regardless of the viewer’s display. The dithering seen in jpeg images does not compromise image quality any more than if you dithered the images to 256-color .gifs yourself. If you standardize on jpeg images, the majority of your viewers will see full-colour photos.

The image compression in the GIF file format is less efficient than JPEG compression

Advantages of JPEG images
- Huge compression ratios mean faster download speeds
- Jpeg produces excellent results for most photographs and complex images
- Jpeg supports full-color (24 bit, true color) image

Advantages of GIF images
- gif is the most widely supported graphics format on the web
- gifs of diagrammatic images look better than jpegs
- gif supports transparency and interlacing

One only needs to look at your site to see you have used these very same methods of adding text on top of banners, headers, etc., that you are displaying on your very own website. I don't understand why you would make such a statement. AND aren't banners, logos, etc. a work of art and a matter of ones taste or perspective??

I don’t see any grey background on the 100% satisfaction sticker? In fact I copied the image (ha ha Vasili) and sent it to myself through my email. White background, and the image is a white background – no grey on my machine.

I wonder Jeremy, since you are using Vista, IE7, or possibly even a wide screen, if that is what is distorting these images and causing ghosting of some?? Do you think?? Something to consider in your line of work, don't you think???

LadyEye,

There is nothing wrong with the images, and yes .jpg is the way to go, what I am trying to say here is that he just added the text on top of the images/banners.

That's great to clear that up Jeremy, I see what you were saying now, instead of adding the text while making the image is what you are saying, I don't know, I'm not any expert by any stretch of the imagination, and was confused, lol, I like playing around though and am always willing to try anything ... well you know what I mean, lol

Tks for coming back with that info though Jeremy. That's super!

LOL .. Holly ..