Volume XXXIX, Number 5 •May/June, 2018
Hist o r ic Ro ut e s page 12
D ining & L o dg ing page 15
Nich e Tou r s page 18
KY Horses | Bourbon | Food Hilton Garden Inn Louisville Downtown is located in a vibrant spot close to many of the unique attractions that bring people to Louisville! We take pride in customizing a group experience that creates positive energy and tons of great memories!
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350 West Chestnut Street, Louisville KY 40202 | (502) 631-4171 | LouisvilleDowntown.HGI.com
contents
MAY/JUNE 2018 Volume XXXIX, Number 5
18
4 8
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8
ESCAPE TO THE MIDWEST Climb aboard the Eagle I riverboat at Starved Rock lodge, take part in Fort Belmont’s Pioneer Days or accept Jacksonville’s hospitality.
ESCAPE TO THE WEST Admirers of Ronald Reagan can explore his acting career and presidency at the Reagan Presidential Library in California, and a unique vacation in the scenic Southwest awaits bus tours that travel to the Four Corners Region.
Guides 15
DINING AND LODGING Sleeping and eating are necessary, but that does not mean these activities cannot be the highlight of a tour. With unique surroundings, delicious food, and above average amenities, these hotels are sure to be unforgettable.
Editor & Publisher . . . . . . . . . Larry Plachno Business Manager . . . . Nancy Ann Plachno Bookkeeping . . . . . . . . . . . . Dianne Billquist Typesetting/Page Layout . . . . Sherry Mekeel Office Asst.. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nicole Fehler Editorial Assistant . . . . . . . . . Tiffany Wilken Bus Tours Magazine 9698 W. Judson Road Polo, Illinois 61064-9015 (815) 946-2341 Fax: (815) 946-2347 Web site: www.bustoursmagazine.com
12 15 Features
STAFF
12
18
Specials
HISTORIC ROUTES Historic Routes and Trails allow travelers to walk in the footsteps of previous generations. They can also help you plan tours based around historic events and famous people. NICHE TOURS The best thing a bus tour can give a client is an opportunity to experience something novel.
And More 22
23
25 26
HERE TODAY . . . GONE TOMORROW
SOCIAL MARKETING FOR TOURISM
by Catherine Heeg
20 TIPS
by Clairemarie Owens
ADVERTISERS INDEX
Advertising Central/International central@busmag.com – (815) 946-2341 West west@busmag.com – (815) 946-2341 Midwest midwest@busmag.com – (815) 946-2341 Northeast tourgroups@busmag.com – (815) 946-2341 Southeast southeast@busmag.com – (815) 946-2341
COVER PHOTO
Once the county courthouse, The McLean
County Museum of History currently houses
exhibits on local history and the Cruisin’ with Lincoln on 66 Visitor Center. Here, you will
find information about Abraham Lincoln,
Route 66 and attractions in and around
Bloomington-Normal, Illinois. JEFF WOODARD. BUS TOURS MAGAZINE (ISSN 0199-6096) is published six times annually by National Bus Trader, Inc., 9698 W. Judson Road, Polo, Illinois 61064. Subscriptions, $15 (in US funds) annually, Canadian & International $20 (in US funds). Printed in U.S.A. Periodicals postage paid at Polo, Illinois 61064 and at additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to BUS TOURS MAGAZINE, 9698 W. Judson Road, Polo, Illinois 61064. Change of Address: Please send old mailing label (or old address and computer number) as well as new address. Advertising: Display advertising rates sent on request. Advertising deadline is the last day of the second month preceding publication. Founded in 1979, BUS TOURS MAGAZINE is the oldest independent magazine in the bus and group tour market. Circulation includes bus and group tour planners in the United States and Canada regardless of affiliation or whether commercial, private or corporate or group leader. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced either in whole or in part without the written consent of the publisher. The name BUS TOURS MAGAZINE and the logo incorporating the passengers, bus and destinations are trade marks of National Bus Trader, Inc.
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018 • 3
Escape to The Midwest
Starved Rock Lodge Starved Rock Lodge
gift shop and meeting rooms. The centerpiece
and learn how it got its name. New for 2018
Oglesby, Illinois
of the Lodge, the Great Hall, is home to the
is the leisurely “Land & Water” cruise, which
Starved Rock Lodge, nestled in the middle
largest two-sided stone fireplace in Illinois.
includes a meal at the lodge, a trolley ride
of scenic Starved Rock State Park in the heart
Comprised of Joliet limestone, it is an extra-
and a cruise aboard the Eagle 1 riverboat. If
of LaSalle County, is a centrally located des-
ordinary example of the fine craftsmanship
your group prefers a short, guided hike com-
tination that is less than 100 miles southwest
of the CCC stonemasons.
bined with a water cruise, then the best
of Chicago, less than two hours north of
Tour Groups love the Lodge’s Tribute to
choice for experiential travel is the “Visit a
Springfield and only one hour south of Rock-
the Stars series of musical performances,
Canyon with a Boat Ride,” which combines
ford. In 1911, when Starved Rock became a
which take place in the Great Hall. Talented
the interesting history of the area with a slow-
state park, the goal was (and still remains)
vocal performers entertain audiences with
paced ride on the Illinois River.
to preserve and protect the property for the
their renditions of famous hits by stars such
The indoor pool complex is open to all
public’s recreational use. In 1939, the Civilian
as Elvis Presley, Patsy Cline and Dean Martin.
guests on the property and features an
Conservation Corps (CCC) built the Lodge,
A buffet lunch is included in the ticket price.
expansive swimming pool, shallow pool for
shelters and trails. The Lodge is an architec-
Trolleys play an important role in the tours
children, a hot tub and two saunas. To truly
tural masterpiece that features a hotel with
offered by Starved Rock Lodge because they
enjoy the atmosphere of yesteryear with the
69 rooms, 21 cabin rooms, a restaurant, bar,
provide a comfortable way to see the park
modern amenities of today, visit Starved Rock
4 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018
Escape to The Midwest Lodge – where the past is always present. To learn more, visit starvedrocklodge.com.
The annual Pioneer Days celebration is August 25-26, 2018. The two-day event brings
Fort Belmont
together demonstrators, vendors and artisans
Fort Belmont
focused on re-creating the trades and skills
Jackson, Minnesota
of life on the prairie. This year’s event features
Visit Historic Fort Belmont in Jackson,
an 1840s Buckskinner Camp and trade blan-
Minnesota, conveniently located off Inter-
kets, butter churning, lefse making and black-
state 90 and Highway 71. Step into the history
smithing demonstrations. Saturday will fea-
of southwest Minnesota as you explore a sod
ture a black powder shoot, a traditional
house, a working gristmill, blacksmith shop,
longbow archery shoot, and tomahawk and
and tour a log cabin and stockade. The Fort
knife throwing. The event welcomes author
also features the 1873 Lysgard Farmhouse
Steve Ulmen, an Abe Lincoln impersonator,
if your tour would like to begin or conclude
and the 1902 Delafield Church, which is avail-
and cowboy church with Gary Froiland. Activ-
your visit with a light lunch in the picnic shel-
able for small weddings and baptisms.
ities include horse drawn wagon rides, kids’
ter or green space. Contact the Jackson Area
In addition to the historical buildings and replicas, the Fort features a museum and gift
games and a scavenger hunt. Concessions
Chamber of Commerce for pricing and to
are available all weekend long.
arrange for group tours, lunch outings, build-
shop. The museum houses relics ranging
Fort Belmont is open daily, Memorial Day
ing and church rental at (507) 847-3867. For
from a covered wagon to a Model T. You can
through Labor Day. Guided tours are avail-
more information on Fort Belmont, visit
sit inside a tepee and view an assortment of
able Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to
fortbelmont.org or jacksonmn.com.
items from daily life in the 1800s. No trip to
4 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and
the Fort would be complete without climbing
Sunday from 12-4 p.m. Tours are approx. 1
to the top of the Look-Out tower for
to 1 ⁄2 hours long. Lunch accommodations
panoramic views of the river valley.
1
can be made with local catering businesses R
Come and learn how Ronald Reagan got from a white house in Dixon, Illinois to THE White House.
Jacksonville, Illinois Conveniently located between Springfield,
Illinois and St. Louis, Missouri, Jacksonville F Page 1
Visit Historic Fort Belmont Jackson, Minnesota
Open Daily Memorial Day - Labor Day Fully Guided Tours Stockade, Sod House, Working Grist Mill, Museum & More www.fortbelmont.org (507) 847-3867
Groups Wanted!
Free and convenient motorcoach parking. Reservations should be made at least two weeks in advance. Tours take approximately one hour. April 2nd - October 31st Monday - Saturday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Sunday: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Visitor Center 810 S. Hennepin Ave Dixon, Illinois 61021
Reagan Home 816 S. Hennepin Ave Dixon, Illinois 61021
director@reaganhome.org (815) 288-5176
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018 • 5
Escape to The Midwest is a thriving community rich in historical treasures, unparalleled educational institutions, growing businesses and a hospitality all its own. A recipient of the Governor's Hometown Award and a Great American Mainstreet Award-winning Community, the Jacksonville area has
Jacksonville Strawn Art Gallery
much to offer. It is easy to become a historian
in
Jack-
sonville. Follow in the steps of Abraham Lincoln by taking the “Voices of Jacksonville” audio tour – part of the “Looking for Lincoln” experience, where you can see the actual places and hear the real stories of Lincoln as his friends and associates knew him. Jacksonville was a major hub of the Underground Railroad, and Woodlawn Farm is a prime example of a historic site available for tours. Visitors can also see Governor Duncan's Mansion, which is one of only two governor's mansions still standing in Illinois (Jacksonville was the home of three governors.). Self-guided historic walking tours of Jacksonville homes and Under-
6 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018
Escape to The Midwest ground Railroad sites entertain while providing knowledge about the city's unique history. Visitors can also enjoy the community's many annual events. From a free outdoor concert series to steam shows, car shows to music and art festivals, Jacksonville has something for everyone, and do not forget monthly exhibits are offered at the historic Strawn Art Gallery. National brand hotels as well as locally-owned properties are sure to provide a good night's sleep. Staying during the week? Book your stay through the CVB, who will offer a wine and cheese reception for free. A variety of banquet facilities provide space for small to large groups, all moderately priced. Jacksonville restaurants offer everything from home-style country cooking to unique delights such as Italian, Mexican and Chinese cuisine. Jacksonville has several shopping centers and many locally owned oneof-a-kind stores, antique malls and gift shops. For more information, phone the Jacksonville Area Convention & Visitors Bureau at (800) 5935678 or visit jacksonvilleil.org.
â?‘
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018 • 7
Escape to the West
Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum The Ronald Reagan Presidential
two restaurants; group tours are encouraged
frescoes, mosaics, gladiator helmets, armor,
Library and Museum
to call ahead to reserve seating. The Reagan
weapons, jewelry, statues and more.
Simi Valley, California The American Presidency comes alive at
Library also serves as the final resting place for President and Mrs. Reagan.
• Holiday Lights – November 10, 2018 – January 6, 2019
the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and
The Reagan Library features many world-
Enjoy an outdoor nighttime walking tour
Museum. From Air Force One to historic pho-
class traveling exhibits. It is always best to
of the entire Reagan Library campus filled
tos and video to interactive games to exquis-
go
at
with thousands of Christmas lights, live musi-
ite landscaped grounds, the Reagan Library
reaganlibrary.com/exhibits or to phone to
cal entertainment and much, much more in
is truly one of the most unique and beautiful
see what exhibits may be open for touring
our first annual Holiday Lights at the Reagan
travel destinations in southern California.
during your visit. Upcoming exhibits include:
Library display.
Where else in California can visitors walk on
• Pompeii: The Exhibition – October
board an actual Air Force One aircraft that
on
the
Library’s
Web
site
6, 2018 – April 21, 2019
• An American Christmas - November 10, 2018 – January 6, 2019
flew seven U.S. presidents, touch an authen-
Relive the catastrophic eruption of Mount
View 25 trees decorated to celebrate the
tic piece of the Berlin Wall or view an exact
Vesuvius and the rediscovery of Pompeii in
defining moments of America’s road to great-
replica of the White House Oval Office? Enjoy
Pompeii: The Exhibition. Featuring nearly 200
ness, from the Revolutionary Era to today.
a stroll through the grounds, which includes
artifacts, hidden from view and forgotten for
Each tree reflects the life and times of Amer-
replicas of the White House Rose Garden and
centuries until rediscovered more than 250
ican society and culture during each decade
South Lawn, or a meal in one of the Library’s
years ago, Pompeii: The Exhibition includes
8 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018
Escape to the West between 1770 and 2010 and beyond, thus tracing the evolution of America. Book your tour today by phoning (805) 577-4066.
Four Corners Region As you may know, Four Corners Monument is the physical marker indicating where the borders of Utah, Colorado, New Mexico and Arizona meet. The monument dates back to 1912, but its current rendition, made of granite and bronze, was installed in 1992. The thrill of traipsing all over the plaque or jumping from state to state can be had year-round. The monument is closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. The monument is guaranteed to be open from 8 a.m. to 4:45 p.m., with extended hours offered from April through the end of September (see Web site for details.). Adults must pay a $5 admission fee. Since the monument lies on Navajo tribal land, items made by the tribe are offered for sale at the visitor center and nearby kiosks. For more information, visit visitarizona.com. Of course, Four Corners Monument is just the beginning of an amazing state-hopping tour. There are so many natural wonders and Pueblo (Anasazi) Indian archeological sites in these four states, and a bus tour does not have to travel far from Four Corners Monument to see many of them. There is also plenty of shopping and gaming, as well as rail and sail, along the way.
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018 • 9
Escape to the West In Utah Designated in 1908, Natural Bridges National Monument features petroglyphs, Puebloan ruins and three amazing bridges: Kachina, Owachomo and Sipapu. In Blanding, your group can shop for genuine Native American pottery at Cedar Mesa Pottery, tour the Dinosaur Museum or enjoy history and recreation at Edge of the Cedars State Park Museum. If you tour Hovenweep National Monument and visit all six Pueblo villages, your group will cross into Colorado, not far from Cortez. For more information about Natural Bridges and Hovenweep, visit nps.gov. For more information about Blanding, visit blandingutah.org.
In Colorado The Ute Mountain Tribal Park near Cortez, Colorado also contains ruins and petroglyphs but requires a native guide to tour. Planners looking to schedule gaming into their itinerary will find Ute Mountain Casino & Hotel has slots and table games, plus a gift shop and the restaurant Kuchu’s. While in Col-
10 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018
Escape to the West Aztec Ruins
orado, you should not miss Mesa Verde National Park. If you would like to add a scenic railway to your tour, then consider a ride aboard the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. For more information
about
the
Ute
Mountain
Tribal
Park,
visit
utemountaintribalpark.info, for more information about Ute Mountain Casino & Hotel, visit utemountaincasino.com, for more information about the Durango & Silverton Railroad, visit durangotrain.com, and for more information about Mesa Verde, visit nps.gov.
In New Mexico Readers familiar with BUS TOURS MAGAZINE may recall editorials featuring Aztec, New Mexico. Their CVB has promoted the Aztec Ruins National Monument and the community’s local Pioneer Village. As they have explained, Aztec is a misnomer as the ruins are Puebloan. More gaming can be had in nearby Farmington at the SunRay Park & Casino and west of Farmington at the Northern Edge Navajo Casino. For more information about Aztec and Farmington, visit aztecnm.com and farmingtonnm.org. For more information about Northern Edge, visit northernedgecasino.com.
Amish Country is jam-packed with food for every tastebud! Das Dutchman Essenhaus in Middlebury is home to Indiana’s largest Family Restaurant serving generations-old, authentic family recipes since 1971 including 31 different kinds of pie (go ahead, try more than one!). While you’re there, be sure to take a peek at the Village Shops. Top off your adventure with live family-friendly theatre, year-round, at Heritage Hall. Shipshewana Flea Market & Auction is the
In Arizona Canyon de Chelly National Monument lies near Chinle, but if you would like to explore the canyon, you will need to work with a tour
perfect spot for freshly made pretzels, churned ice cream, Amish/Mennonite cooking and more! Take home tasty jams/jellies and enjoy other homemade items from the Midwest’s Largest Flea Market. Relax at the Farmstead Inn and enjoy FREE hot breakfast.
operator that has been authorized by the Navajo Parks and Recreation Department to lead tours of the area. There are several firms to choose from, and tours can take place in a vehicle or be part of a hike or horseback ride. Just south of Canyon de Chelly is the community of Ganado and Hubbell Trading Post, which has been open since 1878 and continues to sell items handcrafted by the Navajo. Northwest of Canyon de Chelly is Navajo National Monument, which contains not one but two impressive Pueblo cliff villages: Keet Seel and Betatakin. Lake Powell straddles the border of Arizona and Utah, and planners have several options if they wish to schedule a boat
Amish Acres in Nappanee is full of hands-on food fun! Make a sweet treat in the bakery to take home (or enjoy on the bus - wink!) with their Make It, Bake It Shoofly Pie class. Dine at the 150-year-old Restaurant Barn for the famous Threshers Dinner and be sure to save room for homemade pies straight from the oven!
Take a quick break from the amazing food to see the Quilt Gardens along the Heritage Trail! Experience 19 super-sized quilt patterned gardens and 21 hand-painted quilt murals. Perfect for groups and best of all is free annually May 30 thru October 1!
cruise. For more information about Canyon de Chelly and Navajo National Monument, visit nps.gov, for more information about Hubbell, visit hubbelltradingpost.org, and for more information about Lake Powell, visit lakepowell.com.
❑
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018 • 11
Historic Routes
Martinsburg Roundhouse hanks to the large number of historic
T
ica, the Civil War and the rise of modern life
Museum, located down the street, and enjoy
sites and museums, the hardest part
and industry. Visitors can learn the secrets
its diverse collection of heritage antiques.
of putting together a tour is identifying
of the George Washington Heritage Trail
If your tour is interested in Civil War loca-
which ones your group should visit. Fortu-
(washingtonheritagetrail.com), a National
tions, then take a spin around the Martins-
nately, there are many organizations that have
Scenic Byway that spans Jefferson, Berkeley
burg B&O Roundhouse and see a site
put together materials for locations united by
and Morgan counties in West Virginia’s east-
destroyed by Stonewall Jackson’s troops in
a historical theme. For instance, the United
ern panhandle. The Martinsburg area also
1861. Your group may also be interested in
States Civil Rights Trail (civilrightstrail.com)
makes an excellent destination for Civil War
the Belle Boyd House and Visitors Center.
offers a directory of sites connected with the
aficionados and is part of the Civil War Trails
Born in Martinsburg, Belle Boyd was a lady
Civil Rights Movement. The US government
(civilwartrails.org).
spy who worked for the Confederacy. The
has identified the most famous historic routes
Bus tours can visit the Morgan Cabin (in
neighboring community of Harpers Ferry was
through its National Trails System. In some
Bunker Hill), home of Morgan Morgan, one
the site of abolitionist John Brown’s famous
cases, a stretch of roadway has become a his-
of the first white settlers to West Virginia. In
Pre-Civil War assault on a military armory.
toric route, as is the case with Route 66 and
Martinsburg, your group can tour the General
Today, the town is home to a National His-
the Pacific Coast Highway. The following edi-
Adam Stephen House and learn about
toric Park, and the armory’s surviving guard-
torials are sure to help you ponder the possi-
Stephen’s service as a colonel in the French
house is known as John Brown’s Fort.
and Indian War and as a major general in the
Martinsburg’s charming downtown
Revolutionary War. In addition to the house
streets are a one-stop-shop for artisan décor,
Historic Martinsburg-Berkeley
tour, guests can go underground and explore
quality clothing, spa-quality luxuries and one-
County, West Virginia
part of the natural tunnel system that lies
of-a-kind antiques. Visitors with a sweet
Berkeley County’s history leads guests
underneath the house. Since your tour is in
tooth will want to visit DeFluris Fine Choco-
on a fascinating trip through colonial Amer-
the neighborhood, stop at the Triple Brick
lates, Everything Cheesecake, Latte Da Cup-
bilities for your next historic route tour.
12 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018
Special: Historic Routes cakery or all three. Bus tours will find delicious meal items at Mar-
Lincoln often used this line while conducting legal business from
tinsburg’s many restaurants, which prepare a variety of world cuisines.
1853 to 1860. Lincoln wrote the laws that formed parts of this railroad
However, no visit is complete without a trip to any one of the area’s
corridor, and a hundred years after Lincoln's time, Route 66 is a smooth
four farmers markets: Butler’s Farm Market, Orr’s Farm Market,
concrete ribbon winding its way through the prairie.
Kitchen’s Orchards and Farm Market and Taylor’s Farm Market. Each
Today, when you travel along Route 66 through McLean County,
treats guests to the best fresh produce, seasonings, local wines and
you will encounter many historic roadside attractions. The Funks
homemade goods, such as salsas, sauces, baked desserts and jams.
Grove Maple Sirup in Shirley began producing sirup in 1824. The sirup
To discover all the possibilities for your custom tour, visit the Mar-
farm remains a favorite for travelers along the route. Tours are avail-
tinsburg-Berkeley County CVB Web site at travelwv.com. You can
able during the season. Sprague’s Service Station opened in 1931 in
also discover the county through the CVB’s free app “Visit Martinsburg,
Normal. This Tudor-Revival building served travelers on Route 66 in
WV.” The Martinsburg-Berkeley County CVB is located at 126 E. Race Street in Martinsburg and can be reached at (304) 264-8801.
Historic Route 66 McLean County, Illinois A great way to explore Illinois is to travel any of the seven National Scenic Byways: the Great River Road, the Lincoln Highway, Meeting of the Great Rivers, Historic National Road in Illinois, Ohio River Scenic Route, Illinois River Road and Historic Route 66. National Scenic Byways or All-American Byways provide historical, recreational, cultural, archeological and natural benefits to the state of Illinois and to those traveling on Illinois roadways. Route 66 is a great example. As you travel on Route 66 through the Bloomington-Normal area in
McLean
McLean County, you are riding along a historic railroad line. Abraham
OPENS MARCH 10, 2018
Featuring the Bruce Callis Pedal Car Collection Half-price exhibit admission when you bring this ad! 200 N. Main Street, Bloomington, IL 61701 mchistory.org
FOLLOW THE FOOTSTEPS OF HISTORY Travel the George Washington Heritage Trail and see where else your journey will lead at www.travelwv.com
SPONSORED BY
travelwv.com
800.4WVA.FUN
126 E. Race Street, Martinsburg, WV 25401, 304.264.8801
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018 • 13
Special: Historic Routes its heyday and once housed a café, gas sta-
the trails designated thus far. Each listing
tion, garage and upper story apartments.
explains what the trail commemorates and
Recently renovated, Sprague’s operates as
notes several sites located along the route.
an information center and a unique gift shop. The McLean County Museum of History in downtown Bloomington recently opened a new exhibit – Pedal Power! Since the dawn
Pony Express National Historic Trail From April 1860 to October 1861, the Pony Express connected St. Joseph, Missouri with Sacramento, California on a courier route
Juan Bautista de Anza National
spanning 2,000 miles. Hampered by the Pyra-
Historic Trail
mid Lake War and doomed by the telegraph,
Setting out in 1775, Juan Bautista de Anza
the Pony Express was a unique but ultimately
of the Automobile Age, pedal cars have
and more than 240 settlers travelled across
unprofitable business venture. In St. Joseph,
delighted children and adults. Explore the
1,800 miles of terrain located in what is cur-
Missouri, you will find The Pony Express
exhibit to learn the history of pedal cars and
rently known as Arizona and California. Many
National Museum and the Patee House
relive the nostalgia associated with these
of the famous Spanish missions and forts (pre-
Museum, site of the Pony Express’s headquar-
very popular, high-quality vehicles from the
sidios) built in Arizona and California served
ters. Hollenberg Station State Historic Site in
Bruce Callis collection. The restoration of
as rest stops for the colonists, who eventually
Hanover, Kansas and Rock Creek Station State
these collectibles is stunning.
settled San Francisco. In Arizona, bus tours
Historical Park in Fairbury, Nebraska are
The Cruisin’ with Lincoln on 66 Visitors
can visit Tubac Presidio State Historic Park
examples of extant Pony Express stops. A visit
Center is located in the McLean County
and Mission San Xavier del Bac (Tuscon). In
to Caspar, Wyoming is also worthwhile. Here
Museum of History. It is the only one of its
California, there is Mission San Gabriel Arcán-
bus tours will find the National Historic Trails
kind in the area. Discover the history of travel
gel (San Gabriel), Mission San Antonio de
Interpretive Center, which is dedicated to the
along the road through an interpretative
Padua (Jolon) and Mission San Carlos Bor-
Pony Express Historic Trail, as well as the California, Oregon and Mormon Pioneer trails.
exhibit and shop for unique gift items local
romeo del Río Carmelo (Carmel-by-the-Sea).
to the area, souvenirs, publications and spe-
In San Francisco, bus tours can visit the Pre-
Additional historic trails you may find
cialty items. Get up to date information on
sidio of San Francisco and the mission the set-
interesting include: California; Oregon; Mor-
area attractions and sites, including the David
tlers founded: Mission San Francisco de Asís
mon Pioneer; Trail of Tears; Iditarod; Santa
Davis Mansion, Ewing Manor, the Bloom-
(also known as Mission Dolores).
Fe and Lewis and Clark. The National Park
Pepsi Ice Center, or find information on Route
Star-Spangled Banner National
brochures and maps about the National His-
66, area parks, shopping, restaurants, music
Historic Trail
toric Trails. There is also a Web site dedicated
ington Center for Performing Arts and the
Service Web site offers detailed information,
venues, festivals and historic communities.
The “The Star-Spangled Banner” actually
to the 50th anniversary of the National Trails
Tour buses can park in front of the Visitors
began as a poem by Francis Scott Key titled
System Act. For more information, visit
Center when scheduled in advance. To learn
“Defence of Fort McHenry” (1814). It was only
trails50.org/national-historic-trails or
more about what the Bloomington-Normal
later that it was set to the tune of John
nps.gov/subjects/nationaltrailssystem/
area has to offer, visit VisitBN.org.
Stafford Smith’s song “To Anacreon in
index.htm.
❑
Heaven” and designated as the national
50th Anniversary of the National Trails System Act
anthem in 1931. The Star-Spangled Banner National Historic Trail unites
Conceived by President Lyndon B. Johnson,
locations in the Chesapeake
the National Trails System Act marks its 50th
Bay area that have connec-
anniversary this year. Initially, the trail cate-
tions to the War of 1812. Nat-
gories were concerned with recreation, but
urally, Fort McHenry National
in 1978, President Jimmy Carter added Historic
Historic Shrine and Monu-
Trails to the roster. Today, there are 19 different
ment is the prime location.
federally recognized Historic Trails. They com-
However, North Point-Battle
memorate things like pioneer routes, expedi-
Acre Park and the National
tions, military campaigns and even a Civil
Museum of American History
Rights march (Selma to Montgomery Trail).
(Smithsonian), which exhibits
Numerous historic sites, monuments, muse-
the very flag memorialized in
ums and interpretive centers are attached to
Key’s poem, are also excellent
the trails. The following is a small sample of
destinations.
14 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018
The Pony Express National Museum
Dining and Lodging
Grand Hotel Looking for an economical yet comfort-
experience, particularly dressing up for din-
Garden, golf on The Jewel, visiting unique
able hotel to serve as the hub of your next
ner after 6:30 p.m. Groups visiting for the day
shops or relaxing in a rocking chair overlook-
hub and spoke tour? How about a resort that
can enjoy the legendary Grand Luncheon
ing the Straits of Mackinac. Mackinac Island
serves first-class cuisine with its woodland
Buffet in the Main Dining Room. A multi-year
offers additional activities, such as bicycling,
adventures? Maybe your group is longing for
winner of the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excel-
horse-drawn carriage rides, hiking, exploring
an island getaway with loads of glamour?
lence, the Grand Luncheon Buffet includes
historic Fort Mackinac and shopping down-
Whatever you are seeking, these lodges are
an assortment of options, including fresh sal-
town.
sure to exceed your expectations.
For
more
information,
visit
ads, slow-roasted meats, seafood and fresh-
grandhotel.com,
baked pastries. After lunch, visitors can tour
hotel.com or phone (800) 33GRAND and ask
Grand Hotel
the grounds, explore the hotel and take in
for the group tour coordinator.
Mackinac Island, Michigan
the views from a rocking chair on the world’s
Since 1887, America’s Summer Place has
longest porch. An overnight stay in one of
beckoned visitors to a bygone era of Old World
393 uniquely decorated guest rooms includes
hospitality and charm. Family owned for three
a full breakfast and dinner daily.
e-mail grouptours@grand-
Thunder Bay Resort Hillman, Michigan Welcome to northern Michigan, where
Of course, getting to the hotel is part of the
glaciers have gifted the state with a plethora
is truly one of a kind. You will return to a time
fun. Visitors leave the mainland aboard the
of lakes, streams and rivers, not the least
of horse-drawn carriages, Afternoon Tea, cro-
ferry for a 15-minute ride to Mackinac Island.
of which are the fabulous Great Lakes,
quet on an endless lawn and live music per-
Once at Grand Hotel, visitors can enjoy swim-
which touch the state on three sides. The
formed throughout the day and evening.
ming in the Esther Williams Swimming Pool,
Sunrise Side, near the Lake Huron shore,
Throughout Grand Hotel’s history, dining
Astor’s Salon & Spa, garden tours, Afternoon
is home to Thunder Bay Resort. It is “Over
has been an exceptional feature of the guest
Tea in the Parlor, croquet or bocce in the Tea
the River and Through the Wood” at this
generations, this National Historic Landmark
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018 • 15
Guide: Dining and Lodging award-winning
northern
Michigan
wrecks that lie in the
venue. This family-run resort sits on 400
chilly waters of Lake
gorgeous acres along a mile of the Thunder
Huron. You can take a
Bay River. It offers spacious lodging units
glass-bottomed boat
and a friendly staff: a recipe for a matchless
ride to see some of
northern Michigan experience.
what remains or visit
In the evening, you will step back in time
one of several light-
as carriages pulled by teams of massive Bel-
houses that dot the
gian Draft horses take you over the Thunder
coastline. For a state-
Bay River and through the woods to view the
of-the-art Star Show,
majestic elk that reside in the resort’s pre-
visit Besser Planetar-
serve. The ride ends at the beautiful Elk Antler
ium.
Log Cabin, where a blazing fire in a massive
downtown deserves a
split stone fireplace welcomes you. Warm
stroll, or you can drop
The
Thunder Bay Resort
historic
yourself by the fire and savor the delicious aro-
into one of several art galleries or winery
castle to these two carriage tours, then visit
mas put forth by the twin antique wood cook
tasting rooms.
Castle Farms in Charlevoix. Built in 1918 by
stoves as culinary artist Spenser James and his staff prepare your gourmet meal. Thunder Bay Resort is a great jumping off
A relaxing ride north takes you to Mack-
Albert Loeb, the “farm” has had a fascinating
inaw City, where you can board the ferry for
history. In addition to its original purpose, it
a short trip to Michigan’s most famous and
has been an artists’ colony, an outdoor con-
spot for tours of the area. In nearby Alpena,
visited attraction: Mackinac Island, where
cert stage and now a lovely wedding venue
The Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Museum
another carriage ride awaits. Step back in
and tourist attraction. Its beautifully land-
and Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary
time as you visit the Island’s historic sites and
scaped gardens are breathtaking. For reser-
focus on the 116 historically significant ship-
beautiful gardens. If you would like to add a
vations, assistance with itineraries or information about northern Michigan, contact Susan at (248) 672-3813. For reservations only, contact Carrie at (800) 729-9375.
Buffalo Niagara Marriott Amherst, New York Make yourself at home in one of the 356 air-conditioned rooms that feature refrigerators and 42-inch LCD televisions. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the property. Bathrooms have shower/tub combinations and complimentary toiletries. Conveniences include desks and coffee/tea makers, and housekeeping is provided daily. Enjoy a range of recreational amenities, including a 24-hour state-of-the-art health club, an indoor and an outdoor pool and spa.
A GRAND GROUP DESTINATION
Grab a bite to eat at the hotel's restaurant,
Experience the history and unique hospitality of Grand Hotel. Stay overnight and enjoy a full breakfast and five-course dinner daily. Or visit for the day and enjoy our legendary Grand Luncheon Buffet, a multiple-year winner of the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excellence.
which features a huge lobby bar, or stay in
Call Julia Luckey at 517-349-4600 or grouptours@grandhotel.com
Breakfast Buffet is available every morning
1-800-33GRAND • gr and ho tel.com
and take advantage of room service, offered from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily. An elaborate
for a nominal fee. The Buffalo Niagara Marriott is the perfect tour group destination. Only 15 minutes to
16 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018
Guide: Dining and Lodging downtown Buffalo and Niagara Falls, 10 minutes to the Buffalo Niagara International Airport and near the Walden Galleria and the Niagara Factory Outlet Malls, it is centrally located with complimentary bus parking. Because there are so many things to see and do in western New York, the Buffalo Niagara Marriott staff coordinate with your tour group’s arrival with prepared key packets, porterage, bus parking and meal service. Bookings of 30 rooms or more receive a complimentary welcome reception. To learn more, phone Tina Macey at (716) 276-7007.
❑
Buffalo Niagara Marriott
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018 • 17
A Slice of Brooklyn Bus Tours
“V
ariety is the spice of
life,” or so the expression goes, and employ-
ing step-on guides and visiting unique destinations are great ways to add variety to the average tour. They can also become the cornerstones of your next niche or specialty tour. Because stepon guides know their local community so well, they can tailor their tours to your tour’s theme and help your group find hidden gems. If you are interested in the
Niche Tours
extraordinary, consider these attractions and tour guides. A Slice of Brooklyn Bus Tours Brooklyn, New York “Manhattan? FUHGETTABOUDIT!” That is the official slogan of A Slice of Brooklyn Bus Tours, located in Brooklyn, New
“My guides and I have always strived to
Sable Points Lighthouse
York. Since 2005, they have been NYC’s
exceed our guests’ expectations of what a
Keepers Association
leader in guided bus tours of Brooklyn’s
bus tour should be like through the use of
Ludington, Silver Lake and
favorite foods, neighborhoods, landmarks
our multimedia audio-visual presentations
Whitehall, Michigan
and famous movie locations. Tours include
on the screens of the bus,” says Muia. “They
“Our mission is to preserve, promote and
the Pizza Tour, the Chocolate Tour and the
include slides, music, montages of famous
educate the public and make our lighthouses
Neighborhood Tour, which have been fea-
Brooklynites and the respective movie clips
accessible to all,” so Sable Points Lighthouse
tured on The Today Show, the Travel Channel
when we visit famous movie locations like
Keepers Association invites you to come,
and the Food Network. They have also
Saturday Night Fever, Goodfellas, The Godfa-
explore and climb one of four iconic Lake
earned the TripAdvisor Certificate of Excel-
ther, Moonstruck, The Warriors and so much
Michigan lighthouses in the western Michi-
lence for six straight years in a row, and they
more.”
gan area. They are Big Sable Point Lighthouse
are the brainchild of former healthcare pro-
Adds Muia, "What also sets us apart from
and the Ludington North Breakwater Light-
fessional and native Brooklyn son, Tony
other tour companies is that our guides were
house in Ludington, Little Sable Point Light-
Muia.
all born and raised in Brooklyn, so they have
“I wanted to create a way for visitors to
a pride, a passion and an authenticity that
experience all the amazing things Brooklyn
you can’t just train anyone to possess. From
has to offer from a native’s perspective,” says
standing under the Brooklyn Bridge for pho-
Muia. “When I started doing bus tours 12
tos to strolling the famous Coney Island
years ago, people didn’t consider Brooklyn
Boardwalk, our guides escort you around like
a travel destination. So I took it upon myself
you’re a member of the family. At the same
to become its official ambassador, and since
time, the history, foods, neighborhoods and
then, the borough has become a top tourism
landmarks of the borough are second to none
destination for visitors to NYC.” Besides year-
and resonate with everyone whether they
round retail tours, A Slice of Brooklyn Bus
grew up in Brooklyn or have always been
Tours works extensively with tour operators
fascinated by it.”
from around the country who visit NYC with
For more information, visit asliceofbrook-
their own coach buses. They offer discounted
lyn.com or contact them at info@asliceof-
group rates and step-on guides to do the very
brooklyn.com or (917) 515-5409.
same quality tours.
18 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018
Big Sable Point Lighthouse
Special: Niche Tours house in Silver Lake and the White River Light
unteers take real pride in making sure that
Station and Museum in Whitehall.
guests visiting the lights are informed and
The two lighthouses that are the most accessible for bus tours are Little Sable
have an enjoyable experience. Lighthouse specific gifts shops are located
Point and the White River Light Station and
at all four of the locations, and group tours
Museum. The other two are a little more
are available at each light. For groups with
challenging. The Ludington North Break-
10 or more members who register with the
water Lighthouse is a three-quarter-mile
SPLKA office, the price is discounted to $3
walk on the Ludington North Breakwater
per person from the standard $5 per person
wall out into Lake Michigan while the Big
rate. Tour operators are admitted free of
Sable Lighthouse is nestled among jack
charge and receive a 20 percent discount at
pines and dunes, just a short two-mile walk
all of the gift shop locations. Contact Rachel
along a breathtaking trail through Luding-
at splkaoperations@gmail.com or (231)
ton State Park. On certain days throughout
845-7417 to reserve the group rate and dis-
the summer, the Association offers special
cuss parking and dining options. For more
busing through the dunes to Big Sable. For
information, visit splka.org.
those who ride the bus, the fee is an extra $5 per person to help the organization pay for the buses.
Jim Dykes New York City Licensed Tour Guide
The lighthouses are open to the public for
According to veteran New York City
touring and climbing from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
step-on guide Jim Dykes, “New York City is
daily. The lights are manned by volunteers
the center of “niche” tours with dozens pos-
who come, stay and work at the lighthouses
sible – Harlem tours, architecture tours,
for a week or two weeks at a time. These vol-
Greenwich Village and SoHo walks, Broad-
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018 • 19
Special: Niche Tours Jim Dykes
sticks out from the side of the building.” Dykes says he especially enjoys planning and giving tours popular with adults and older people because “Older people get me – my personality and my humor. It is the people who make any great city – and I love to tell informative and funny stories, dropping famous names and recalling New York legends from Babe Ruth and Jackie Onassis to
way history tours, Haunted New York tours,
the modern residents of Trump Tower.” Jim
Wall Street Walks, Rich and Famous tours
Dykes is on Trip Advisor, Facebook and Twit-
(celebrity stories and fabulous real estate),
ter. If you would like to retain Jim Dykes’
Revolutionary War NYC, Central Park in-
services, contact him at (917) 576-7170 or
depth, Brooklyn and much more. With many cities, once you have visited and seen
JimDykesNY@gmail.com. D
the highlights, you usually do not need to
OUR CLASSIC STEAMLINER
return right away, but one can visit New
Ri Van Rip Va V Winkle Wi Win Wink Winkl W Fl Fly Flye Flyer F
York City regularly and see it from different
is available for motor coach tours. We have ample comfortable parking and can accomodate motor coaches.
angles.” “NYC is an international center of finance, fashion, real estate, showbiz, fine dining, great architecture, jet set lifestyle and much more,” says Dykes. Historical architectural gems both old and new dot the city landscape because New York is where the “skyscraper race” of the early 20th century kicked off from the Woolworth Tower and Chrysler Building to the new World Trade Center Freedom Tower. “People are fascinated when I explain the NYC laws of ‘air rights’ that made these towers possible and the people who built them,” Dykes explains. “For example, there’s a skyscraper near Bloomingdale’s, and when it was being built, the developers had to buy every house on the block – but one elderly lady wouldn’t sell and wouldn’t move so they were forced to build the skyscraper around her! To this day, her 1840s house 20 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018
- THE
Rolling along from May to November, the Rip Van Winkle Flyer can be booked for special runs. Our regular schedule is posted on the calendar at durr.org. Our trains and the Rip Van Winkle Flyer are for special runs and charters through the spectacular scenery in the famous Catskill Mountains.
RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED and can be made by contacting us at charter@durr.org or calling (845) 586-2929
Delaware & Ulster Railroad 43510 Route 28 Arkville, NY 12406 (845) 586-2929 durr.org
Come aboard the Rip Van Winkle Flyer and travel on our train to an era when railroads were noted for their fine dining and service. Traveling on our Classic Steamliner, you will enjoy some of the finest Dining Car selections in the country all while watching the magnificent Catskill Mountain scenery. Your tickets are all inclusive for a two and one half hour train trip with a luncheon selection of your choice. The Delaware & Ulster Railroad is located not far from Cooperstown and Albany, and a short ride from the New York State Thruway at Kingston, New York.
Special: Niche Tours
Morse Farm
examine the equipment used for maple
prime tourist season in Vermont. At Morse
sugaring in the Sugar House; trek the
Farm, tour passengers can enjoy a maple
Maple Tree Trail to view the various maple
creemee (soft serve ice cream flavored with
and tree varieties and see how the sap is
authentic Vermont maple) and stroll the
collected. Visitors can also sample a variety
nature trail to take in the brilliant colors of
of maple syrups and maple-flavored treats,
the sugar maple leaves. No on-site dining
visit an outdoor museum that includes an
is available, but maple creemees, Sugar on
antique replica of the Vermont State House
Snow and other treats, such as milkshakes
and shop for authentic maple syrup and
and floats, are offered for sale (Drivers and
other Vermont specialty foods, as well as
escorts get a free sample.).
a full array of craft and gift items. Selec-
Morse Farm welcomes bus tours anytime
tions can be mailed from the store or car-
of year, with 20-minute guided tours avail-
Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks
ried out. In addition, the property is
able for a small fee (self-guided tours are
Montpelier, Vermont
adorned with whimsical folk characters
free.). Because of the volume of visitors dur-
that were carved with a chainsaw by owner
ing autumn, reservations are required from
Burr Morse.
mid-September to mid-October. Buses can
Bus tour groups will have a truly authentic Vermont experience with a stop at Morse Farm Maple Sugarworks in Montpelier. The
The two most popular seasons for tours
drop off and pick up passengers at the main
history of this family-run business began in
are spring and fall. Tree-tapping (or sugarin’)
entrance and park in the adjacent lot. Tour
1814, when James Morse first settled in Ver-
takes place in the spring, has a very short
planners should allot at least one hour for
mont. Today, maple syrup is made by an
run (three to five weeks) and begins any-
groups to take the tour, walk around on their
eighth generation of Morse family members,
where from late February to mid-March and
own and shop in the store. For more details
whose ancestors were taught to tap maple
runs through early April, depending on
and
trees by Native Americans.
weather conditions. During this exciting
Glee@MorseFarm.com.
Morse Farm is open year-round, and
time, tour passengers can witness the maple
each season offers a memorable outing for
sap being boiled down into syrup in the
bus tour passengers. Visitors can enjoy a
Sugar House and get a taste of “Sugar on
live presentation or video about maple sug-
Snow” – hot maple sugar that turns to taffy
aring and the Morse family, seated on sugar
when it is drizzled over shaved ice (served
maple stumps in a real woodshed theater;
with a fresh donut). Of course, fall is the
reservations,
e-mail ❑
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018 • 21
Here today... gone tomorrow
S
pecial exhibits allow new guests to enjoy something different and returning guests something new when they visit. However, time to enjoy them is limited, so limited that many exhibits are gone before a bus tour can reach them. Fortunately, these special exhibits have extended engagements or will still be available in several months.
Mummies March 16, 2018 – April 21, 2019
Georgia O’Keeffe: Visions of Hawai‘i May 19, 2018 – October 28, 2018
Bus tours visiting Chicago can experience the Field Museum’s
Painter Georgia O’Keeffe is perhaps best known for her Southwest-
Mummies, which focuses on not just Egyptian but Peruvian mummies.
ern paintings, but fans of the artist are sure to be pleased by the paint-
Through CT scans, the exhibit promises guests a glimpse at what is
ings she created in 1939 for the Hawaiian Pineapple Company (Dole).
under the wrappings.
In addition to the collection, the New York Botanical Garden will offer
The Field Museum
special events throughout the exhibit’s run that focus on Hawaiian
Chicago, Illinois
culture and vegetation.
(312) 922-9410; www.fieldmuseum.org
New York Botanical Garden Bronx, New York
Rembrandt: Painter as Printmaker
(718) 817-8700; www.nybg.org
September 16, 2018 – January 6, 2019 His name is synonymous with artistic achievement, and for a
Harry Potter: A History of Magic
short time, visitors of the Denver Art Museum will find more reasons
October 5, 2018 – January 27, 2019
to admire artist Rembrandt van Rijn. Guests will learn about
Unicorns, wizards, trolls and dragons – all the ingredients for a first-
printmaking by exploring the techniques he used to create his
class fantasy. Who does not love Harry Potter? Well, 20 years after the
masterpieces.
American release of Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone, fans of J.K.
Denver Art Museum
Rowling can see illustrations and texts from the franchise’s development
Denver, Colorado
and publication, as well as objects and books related to the occult.
(720) 865-5000; www.denverartmuseum.org
New York Historical Society Museum & Library New York City, New York
Leonardo da Vinci: Machines in Motion
(212) 873-3400; www.nyhistory.org
March 1, 2018 – January 6, 2019 If you have ever perused images of the sepia-toned drawings of da Vinci’s notebook and wondered what those magnificent inventions
Unseen Oceans March 12, 2018 – January 6, 2019
would be like in person, then wonder no more. Tours that visit the
This exhibit explores the technologies that are allowing researchers
George H. W. Bush Presidential Library this year can view functioning
to better understand the world’s oceans, particularly those that can defy
models based on da Vinci’s designs.
the crushing depths of the deep and help scientists study environments
George H. W. Bush Presidential Library & Museum
and life forms previously unexplored.
College Station, Texas
American Museum of Natural History
(979) 691-4000; www.bush41.org
New York City, New York; (212) 769-5100; www.amnh.org
22 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018
Social Marketing for Tourism by catherine Heeg
Q&A: Four Simple Social Ad Hacks Do you want an easy way to re-connect with past clients? Do you want to attract potential new clients who love to travel? As a busy travel and tourism pro, you are faced with the dilemma of where to spend your precious time and marketing efforts. Attracting potential new clients and keeping strong relationships with current clients is probably at the top of your to do list but may often times get buried beneath accounting, phone calls and creating itineraries. Did you know that 84 percent of marketers are using Facebook ads? Yet there are so many changes and fine details that are easy to miss; it is no wonder that there are more questions than clear answers. Here are some great questions I hear frequently from travel pros along with some proven hacks to make your life easier. Which is better for setting up ads easily – Power Editor or Ads Manager? Guess what—they have merged into a single ad platform, so you do not have to choose. I loved using Power Editor and now find the new combined tool easy to use. We still have “Quick Creation” and ‘“Guided Creation” in the new combined tool and Facebook will automatically opt you in to the tool you have used most often (You can always change to the other method if you want.). The best news is that in the combined tool you will have the option to save your work as a draft (Great news for busy travel pros). The best news is that now you will have one easy place to access your ads reporting. No more time wasted looking for certain metrics on Ads Manager and other details on Power Editor. In the new combined ad platform, you will find charts, activity history, breakdowns, summary rows, date benchmarks, exported insights reports and more. Easy. Novice tip: The “Guided Creation” option is still the easiest way to dive into Facebook and Instagram ads.
Intermediate tip: The new combined tool will show all your ad analytics and metrics in one place. What a time-saver. Advanced tip: Dynamic creative is an amazing tool to test a variety of creative assets: images, video, headlines, text, link descriptions and CTA buttons.
Is there a way to advertise to people who are just starting to plan a trip? Yes. A new ad opportunity called “Trip Consideration” has just rolled out on Facebook. An amazing way to target users who are in the early stages of considering a trip. You will
Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018 • 23
Heeg need to have the Facebook pixel installed. What a great way to reach more travel-ready millennials and other demographics planning to travel. How can I target ads to my own client list? There is a really simple way to add your own list of client emails to the Facebook ad platform and then target your ads to this unique audience. Yep, that is right—your own clients. Simply create an Excel spreadsheet of your client email addresses, save it as a .csv and then upload it to your ad account and set up your new Custom Audience. Tip: When creating your Excel spreadsheet, insert your client emails into one column and do not use any column header. Here is the navigation: Click on the “hamburger” icon at the top left of your screen, then select “Audiences”. Next select “Create Audience” and then “Custom Audience,” then “Customer File.” Then follow the prompts to upload your client list. Voila. Facebook matches up the e-mail addresses from your list into a new audience for your advertising pleasure. Easy.
step as a potential new client of yours by clicking “like, comment or share” on your post. Here are some examples of focused ways to turn them into brand loyalists. • Target your next ad to people who have interacted with a recent Facebook Event of yours. Simple. • Connect with anyone who has reacted or interacted with your business page. Simple. • Do you have a video that was viewed by a ton of people? You can create an audience of just those viewers. Simple. Here are the choices you will find when you select “Custom Audiences” and then “Engagement.” Now that you have a better idea of how to pinpoint your ad audience, what will you ❑ do differently for your next social ad?
24 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018
Coming events of interest to readers of BUS TOURS MAGAZINE. Submissions for the department should be directed to the editor. Unless otherwise indicated, events are not open to the general public. August 10-12, 2018. Gene Nicolelli Tribute Rally. Hibbing, Minnesota. For more information contact Ross Gabrick at rgabrick@richfieldbus.com. August 19, 2018. Pacific Bus Museum Annual Open House. Freemont, California. See www.pacbus.org/pacbus/ activities.html for more information. November 4-8, 2018. NTA Travel Exchange. The Wisconsin Center, Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
Catherine Heeg, international speaker and trainer, focuses on social media marketing strategies for the tourism and hospitality
Can I target people who have interacted with my Facebook or Instagram posts? Yes and yes. Imagine if you could reach out to people who have taken that first big
Down The Road
industry. Join the conversation and connect with her at cmsspeaking.com and socially.
January 26-29, 2019. American Bus Association Marketplace. Kentucky Interntional Convention Center, Louisville, Kentucky. For more information visit buses.org/events.
20 Tips For Bus Tour Planners by Clairemarie Owens
20 Tips for Hiking Trips
room for your group to spread out after a hike
portable fans – anything that can make the
is essential.
group more comfortable and less hot.
From domestic to international travelers,
4. Water. After their hikes, your group
youth groups to baby boomers, the most pop-
is going to be exhausted. Keep bottles of
does not have to be a new itinerary. The most
ular type of bus tour I get asked to quote is the
water on the bus for your group to drink
successful hiking trips that I have planned
hiking tour. The United States has a diverse
while on tour. I recommend two water bot-
have been from itineraries that I had been
landscape of mountains, deserts, beaches and
tles per person, per day. Most bus drivers
using for a while, incorporating hikes and
forests just waiting to be explored on foot, but
keep ice coolers on their bus and are more
modifying the timing. No need to reinvent
it can get tricky when you have 40 guests and
than happy to share.
the wheel.
a full-sized motorcoach. Here are my 20 tips for keeping all your guests “Happy Hikers.”
5. Snacks. Hiking trips are more active
8. Creating an itinerary. A hiking trip
9. What time of year? It seems like a
than classic bus tours, and guests appreciate
silly question – asking which time of year to
1. The Guide. A great guide is essential
high calorie snacks and lunches to eat on and
take your hike, but I cannot tell you how many
to every tour, but for a hiking tour, you want
after their hikes. While I usually budget money
times I have had requests for hiking tours in
to make sure you select a tour guide that is in
for cocktails and drinks during classic tours,
Death Valley in the summer or the Rockies in
great shape and enjoys hiking. The last thing
for hiking tours, I allocate these funds for snacks
November. Researching the best time of the
you want is your guide waiting at the trailhead
and water. Your guests will appreciate it.
year to hike is crucial and often overlooked.
for all the guests to arrive back from their hike.
6. Lunches. Picnic lunches are the eas-
10. Include hike details in your quote.
Plan on paying your guide a little extra each
iest and most affordable way to feed the
What is the distance of the hike? How long
day since hiking tours are so much work.
group while on a hike, usually costing about
will the hike take? What level is the hike? Are
2. Keep the group small. I do not rec-
half the price of lunch at a restaurant, but
there any changes in elevation? Including this
ommend having more than 15 to 20 guests
eating cold sandwiches does get old and
information in your quote will let potential
per tour guide. If you plan on having a full-
repetitive fast. Looking for alternatives to
clients know exactly what to expect on your
sized motorcoach full of guests, I would rec-
picnic lunches is one of the hardest parts of
tour and how to prepare for it.
ommend having more than one tour guide or
planning a hiking tour, but it is worth the
11. Do not hike every day. While it is
including a tour leader to help with the hikes.
extra work. Finding restaurants near the trail-
a hiking tour, it is also a tour. Do not make
3. Choosing a bus. While smaller mini
head and having lunch early (around 11 a.m.)
your tour only about hiking. Include sites and
coaches will limit the size of the group to
or late (around 2 p.m.) are better alternatives
attractions, just like you would in a regular
between 10 to 15 guests, their small size will
to cold sandwiches.
tour. For each day of hiking there should be
allow the group to access more hikes and get
7. Gifts and raffle prizes. In my last arti-
them closer to the trailheads. While hiking
cle, I talked about ways to pass time on the
one day of rest/sightseeing. This will give the group time to rest between hikes.
tours can be done with full-sized coaches, it
distances between tours and how it is impor-
12. Timing. Hiking trips require more
does make finding suitable hikes a little more
tant to have gift and raffle prizes. For hiking
time and a slower pace than a classic bus tour.
difficult. Whatever size bus you choose, make
tours, the best prizes are things that can be
The hikes themselves take around four to six
sure that you do not fill it up. Having enough
used on the hikes: hats, reusable water bottles,
hours, and after the hike, guests are often too Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018 • 25
20 Tips tired and dirty to do anything else. Any activ-
national parks, the rules for state parks differ
18. Slowest person in the front.
ities done on a hiking day should be done
from state to state and park to park. However,
While on a hike, place the slowest guest in
before the hike or after the group has had
in general, they operate the same as national
the front of the group and allow them to set
time to rest and shower.
parks and require a licensed and certified
the pace for the rest of the group. This will
guide to lead all hikes.
also keep people from getting left behind and
13. Do not forget big cities. Hiking tours always seem to forget the big cities.
16. Native and First Nations Tribal
Even I have to admit that I was guilty of that
Parks. Native and First Nations tribal parks
when I first started, but large cities, particu-
are some of the most beautiful and unvisited
19. Medical emergencies. Medical
larly those in the western United States, have
parks in North America. They also offer some
emergencies are always a possibility on
lost. It will also make the hike more enjoyable for all the guests attending.
great hikes within the city itself (or nearby
of the most unspoiled and non-commercial-
group bus tours, but even more so on hik-
suburbs) that do not require a certified guide
ized hikes I have ever been on. However,
ing tours. Any guest with medical issues
to lead them.
hikes in tribal parks require a licensed and
needs to notify the guide so they can be
14. National Parks. All national parks
certified native/First Nations guide. The best
aware. Medical issues, such as shortness
require group hikes to be lead by a certified
way to find these guides is by contacting the
of breath, exhaustion and general dizzi-
guide for the safety of the guests and the
tribe directly for details.
ness, need to be taken seriously, as do
preservation of the park. Each park has dif-
17. Do not lose anyone. When every-
ferent requirements for this certification. If
one is fine, losing someone on a hike makes
the main guide on your tour does not have
for a fun story after the fact. However, it is a
important that your group does not leave
the required certification, you will have to
story you never want to tell. The best way to
any trash or garbage on the trail or at the
complaints of discomfort. 20. Leave no trace. While hiking, it is
outsource a second guide to conduct the hike
keep all the members in one place is to have
trailhead. I have often seen tons of trash left
within the park.
the tour guide or tour leader follow the group
in the wake of large group tours. Not only
in the back to make sure that no one falls
is it bad for the environment, but behavior
behind or runs off on a different path.
like this also leads to park rules against
15. State Parks. Often overlooked, state parks are hidden gems for hikers. Unlike
group hiking and gives bus tours a bad
Advertiser’s Index
name in general.
A Slice of Brooklyn Tours . . . . . . . . . .19
Jacksonville Area CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Airborne & Special Ops Museum . . . .10
Jim Dykes – NY Guide . . . . . . . . . . . . .20
Amish Country of Northern Indiana . .11
Lowell Observatory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
versity, she travelled around the United States
Angel Museum . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26
Martinsburg-Berkeley County CVB . . .13
and Europe for a few years before returning
Atlantic City . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28
McLean County Museum
Clairemarie Owens was born and raised in Los Angeles. After attending Boise State Uni-
Buffalo Niagara Marriott . . . . . . . . . . .17
of History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13
Castle Farms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27
Morse Farm . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
City of Aztec . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Old Sturbridge Village . . . . . . . . . . . . .21
City of Ft. Madison . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Our Lady of Consolation . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Columbia Gorge
Paw Paw in Southwest Michigan . . . .27
Interpretive Center . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad . . .10 Delaware & Ulster Railroad . . . . . . . .20 Fort Belmont . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Ronald Reagan Boyhood Home . . . . . .5 Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation . . . . . . . . . . .9 Sable Points Lighthouse Keepers
Grand Hotel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16
Association . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19
Greater Bangor CVB . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17
Starved Rock Lodge . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Hilton Garden Inn
Step On Bus Tours . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Louisville Downtown . . . . . . . . . . . . .2 26 • Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018
Warren County Historical Society . . . . .7
to Los Angeles. She currently works as a tour operator, planning bus tours in the U.S., Canada, Cuba and Africa for both American and international clients.
❑
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Bus Tours Magazine / May, 2018 • 27