Leisure Group Travel, December 2013

DECEMBER 2013

A Premier Tourism Marketing publication • www.leisuregrouptravel.com

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12 VOL. 23, NO. 6 • DECEMBER 2013

contents stuartmiles/Bigstock.com

COVER STORY 12 Buy, Sell or Hold The president of Innovative Travel Acquisitions offers tips on buying or selling a travel business

FEATURES

COLUMNS

10

Reader’s Choice Awards

6

17

The Future of Student Travel is Looking Bright

On My Mind

BY JEFF GAYDUK

8

BY VANESSA DAY

22

Hotel Industry Outlook: Pleasant Dreams

26

10 Tour-ific Nebraska Museums

29

South Dakota Outdoors

37

Best of Baltimore: 12 Top Attractions

40

Perillo Tours’ Hawaiian Vacations

43

Scenic Chattanooga

46

Arizona’s Grand Canyon

48

RV Capital of the World

4 December 2013

On Tour

BY MARTY SARBEY DE SOUTO

BY HARRY PECK

50

BY RANDY MINK

On Marketing

BY DAVE BODLE

BY RANDY MINK

BY RANDY MINK

BY DAVE BODLE

BY SUE ARKO

BY RANDY MINK

LeisureGroupTravel.com

NUMBER CRUNCHING ON LOCATION

100

“You’re Fired!” Junior editor Liam Gayduk explores pirate lore while in Negril, Jamaica.

Approximate number of RV factories near Elkhart, Indiana

563 Million gallons of Kool-Aid consumed each year

WHAT’S ONLINE? PREPARE FOR A NEW ERA OF GROUP TRAVEL PLANNING

1814

is the season! As travelers prepare for holiday vacations and festivities, we are preparing a present of our own. Keep an eye out for an allnew LeisureGroupTravel.com, featuring an enhanced look and feel, expanded, broader content, more intuitive search and navigation abilities, and a better way to request information about any of the destinations, attractions or tours we feature.

Best of all, we are wrapping this present in a box that renders equally as beautiful on your tablet, smartphone or personal computer.

T

Year that Francis Scott Key penned The Star-Spangled Banner

7,242 Height in feet of Harney Peak, highest point in South Dakota ON THE COVER:

46

The Grand Canyon Railway travels through high desert and pine forests.

Decision time: Selling or buying a travel busines (Photo by stuartmiles/Bigstock.com)

18 The widest point of the Grand Canyon in miles

8,600 Approximate number of caves in Tennessee

217 LeisureGroupTravel.com

Billion dollars spent by young travelers in 2012

on my mind ❖

On My Mind jeff gayduk

❖ jeff gayduk

Vol. 23, No. 6 December 2013 Editorial & Advertising Office

Closing the Loop

621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527 P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 info@ptmgroups.com

Publisher – Jeffrey Gayduk jeff@ptmgroups.com

Associate Publisher – Dave Bodle dave@ptmgroups.com

BEING A PUBLISHER, I get a fair share of preview copies from publicists hawking business and self-help authors. Frankly, many of these just aren’t applicable to whatever ails us at the time. They usually get re-gifted to staff or friends so I can play amateur psychologist at who needs what type of counseling.

One book that came across my desk this fall was Looptail by Bruce Poon Tip. Glancing at the jacket, I remember Bruce as the founder of G Adventures, which I like to call the biggest tour company no one has heard of. This book is a historical tale about the growth of G (formerly known as Gap Adventures), now a $200-million company, and also a guiding light for what the travel and tourism industry should be.

In 1990, Bruce saw a rift in the adventure travel industry where Western tourists would come to developing countries only to travel in a swank bus with a Western tour guide, stay in Western-owned hotels and drive around to “see the country.” In his opinion, operators were doing everything in their power to create a Western environment, which defeats the entire purpose of going to another country in the first place.

What resulted was the creation of what’s called “community tourism” where G built tour programs that created local benefits for local people. This extends well beyond homestays and visiting local shops. G developed its own non-profit entity to CREATE sustainable programs in developing countries where they ran tours. With strong buy-in from their customers and employees, the result is that dollars spent in the community stay in the community. Cool idea, huh?

I have personally experienced the positive impact that projects like this can have on communities. On a recent trip to Jamaica, we visited a local school that is supported by the Sandals Foundation. It’s a pity on one hand to see what these kids lack compared to the U.S. In classrooms the size of our janitor closet, with no AC or screens, kids stacked like sardines all work diligently to improve their handwriting. While they don’t lack enthusiasm, they are lacking resources, and that’s where the inclusive resort operator Sandals is trying to make a difference. Along with other initiatives, the foundation features a program called TAG where travel agents can give back a percentage of their commission to these community programs.

In my perspective, traveling does so much to open one’s mind that it’s a travesty many don’t care or don’t fully understand their responsibility as our role in the betterment of the communities we visit. Tourism can become the world’s #1 renewable resource, but only when we stop treating it like a landfill.

Understanding that we’re part of something greater is what the Looptail is about. It’s something G started with their tours, migrated to their customers, and now envelops their employees and community. I was excited to hear that Bruce will be speaking at this year’s Travel Exchange in Los Angeles—his audience will be better for it.

As we enter this holiday season of 2013 and reflect back on our highs and lows, I urge you to A) go buy the book—it will make a great holiday gift for yourself and B) understand that through your actions, you can positively impact the lives of many around the world, just like the folks at G do every day.

Here’s to a great 2014!

Managing Editor – Randy Mink randy@ptmgroups.com Director, Design & Production – Robert Wyszkowski rob@ptmgroups.com

Regional Business Development Managers Northeast & Eastern Midwest/Canada – Harry Peck P 330.830.4880 • F 630.794.0652 harry@ptmgroups.com

Mid-Atlantic/New England/Wisconsin – Ellen Klesta P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 ellen@ptmgroups.com

Southeast/West Coast – Cheryl Rash P 563.613.3068 • F 815.225.5274 cheryl@ptmgroups.com

Frontier & Mountain West/ Illinois/Minnesota/Southwest – Linda Ragusin P 630.794.0696 • F 630.794.0652 linda@ptmgroups.com

Florida & Caribbean – Eric Moore P 352.753.0736 eric@ptmgroups.com The publisher accepts unsolicited editorial matter, as well as advertising, but assumes no responsibility for statements made by advertisers or contributors. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information published, but the publisher makes no warranty that listings are free of error. The publisher is not responsible for the return of unsolicited photos, slides or manuscripts.

Leisure Group Travel (ISSN-1531-1406) is published bi-monthly by Premier Tourism Marketing, Inc. 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406, Willowbrook, IL 60527. The magazine is distributed free of charge to qualified tour operators, travel agents, group leaders, bank travel clubs and other travel organizations. Other travel-related suppliers may subscribe at the reduced rate of $12.00 per year. The regular subscription price for all others is $18.00 per year. Single copies are $4.95 each.

Send Address Change to: Premier Tourism Marketing, Inc. 621 Plainfield Road, Suite 406 Willowbrook, IL 60527

A

publication

All rights reserved. Materials may not be reproduced in any form without written permission of the publisher.

Jeff Gayduk, Publisher 6 December 2013

LeisureGroupTravel.com

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On Tour

❖ marty sarbey de souto, ctc

Trips with a Spanish Accent DO YOU HAVE travelers who would

town area. Touring by boat while being

and the city today not only carries the

love to go to some of Mexico’s colo-

serenaded by mariachis is a top expe-

heritage of the Spanish but of the

nial cities but are uneasy about visit-

rience for visitors. The Christmas-New

earlier Indian cultures as well.

ing that country right now? Why not

Year’s period with its Festival of Lights,

take them to one of our own country’s

plus the summer folkloric and flamenco

a mecca for artists and writers,

lovely cities that were founded by the

shows, are prime times to visit.

such as Georgia O’Keeffe and D.H.

Spanish or the Mexicans and offer just the atmosphere these folks may be looking for.

Many of us think that our country

Santa Fe has become known as

Lawrence, and is now designated as ST. AUGUSTINE, FLORIDA Another city with a Hispanic history is St. Augustine, the nation’s oldest

a UNESCO Creative City. It’s the third largest art market in the U.S. (after New York and Los Angeles).

came about due to the Pilgrims or

city. It was here in 1565 that Spanish

early explorers along the Atlantic Coast

explorer Pedro Menendez established

hotels, many built in the flat-roof,

or perhaps by people fleeing the potato

the first successful European colony

earth-toned adobe look featuring a

famine in Ireland or debtors’ prison in

in the U.S., although Ponce de Leon

cozy fireplace here and there to take

Santa Fe is a chic city with inviting

England. In actuality many of the early settlements were from Spain and Mexico, like the three cities below.

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS

San Antonio, St. Augustine and Santa Fe offer groups a dash of Hispanic flair

A most attractive destination with a Mexican flavor is San Antonio,

had already discovered Florida as

the chill off a cold winter night. The

named for Saint Anthony of Padua.

early as 1513. One can visit the

city is laid out according to the “Laws

Founded in 1691 when a Spanish

Archaeological Park where he came

of the Indies” established in 1573 by

expedition stopped in the area, it’s

ashore and drink from the “Fountain

the Spanish King Philip II, with the

now a thriving metro area of over two

of Youth.”

Cathedral on one side of the central

million. Its two most popular features

One of the most popular times to

are the historic Alamo and the

visit is during the Night of Lights, a

enchanting River Walk.

festive period from Nov. 23-Jan. 31.

During the 1700s the Mexican

plaza and the Palace of the Governors on the other.

Visitors are particularly attracted

Millions of tiny lights appear in the

by the renowned summer opera and

mission period left its mark. Then in

windows, a custom tracing its origins

by the Spanish Market held late July

1836 Mexican General Santa Anna

to the Spanish tradition.

and again in December. The market

and his men were able to take the Alamo after a bitter 13-day Texan holdout. Today the Alamo compound

features santos, retablos, textiles, SANTA FE, NEW MEXICO The full name of the nation’s

embroidery, tinwork, ironwork, basketry and precious metals.

remains the city’s major historic site

second oldest city is La Villa Real de

and the phrase “Remember The

la Santa Fe de San Francisco de Asis.

flavored cities you choose for your

Alamo!” still symbolizes a struggle

Slightly over a mile high in altitude,

group’s next trip, you really can’t go

against impossible odds.

Santa Fe was founded by Spanish

wrong.

The Alamo may be the city’s most

missionaries a decade before the

famous landmark but undoubtedly the

Pilgrims reached Plymouth Rock. The

River Walk has become its most popu-

area was originally occupied by a

lar spot. The river, lined with cafes and

number of Pueblo Indian villages

shops, meanders through the down-

founded during the period 1050-1150,

8 December 2013

Whichever of these Spanish-

Marty is a Certified Travel Counselor who designs and leads tours. Her travel industry consulting and educational firm is Sarbey Associates (sarbeyassociates.com).

LeisureGroupTravel.com

What do 500 butteries sound like?

What’s it like to feed a stingray?

From learning Irish dance moves to face-to-face encounters with stingrays, Columbus is full of unforgettable hands-on experiences perfect for groups of all sizes. Start planning your Columbus visit today at experiencecolumbus.com/tours or call 800-354-2657.

What do they serve at 125-year-old dinner parties?

What will you experience?

SM

2013

RE ADER ’S ★ ★ ★ C H★I C E AWARDS

You voted in the 11th annual Reader’s Choice Awards…and the results are in! Congratulations to our 2013 winners, selected by readers of Leisure Group Travel. Subscribers voted by mailing in their Reader Service Card or going online at leisuregrouptravel.com ABOUT THIS YEAR’S AWARD WINNERS n the Best Domestic Destination category, New Orleans

I

Choice Award. In the Best Cruise Line category, Celebrity Cruises emerged victorious over Royal Caribbean Inter-

placed No. 1, a crowning achievement for a city whose

national and Princess Cruises. The same lines also

tourist appeal has climbed steadily since the devas-

placed in the top three last year.

tating effects of Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The Big Easy

Washington, D.C.’s multi-location Smithsonian Insti-

toppled last year’s winner, the Big Apple, with New York

tution won top honors in the Best Museum category,

City dropping to third this time around. Though cities

repeating last year’s performance. New York’s American

usually grab the top three Domestic Destination slots, this

Museum of Natural History and Chicago’s Museum of

time a whole state—Alaska—was the runner-up.

Science and Industry received Gold and Bronze (replac-

It came as no surprise that perennial favorites Italy

ing their cities’ 2012 Gold and Bronze finishers—Metropol-

and Ireland, like last year, topped the list in the Best

itan Museum of Art and The Field Museum—respectively).

International Destination sweepstakes. Coming in third

Repeating its strong showing from last year, Rocky

was Germany, which replaced the 2012 Bronze recipient,

Mountaineer switched places with VIA Rail Canada

Switzerland.

to come out No. 1 in the Best Rail Excursion category.

In voting for Best Tour Operator, Leisure Group Travel

Colorado’s Durango-Silverton Railroad earned Bronze.

readers for the seventh year in a row gave Platinum and

Our readers deemed Jersey Boys as the Best Broad-

Gold to Collette Vacations and Globus Family of Brands,

way Show, with the long-running Mamma Mia! and Book

respectively. California-based Premier World Discovery,

of Mormon (No. 1 in 2012) right behind.

recognized for the first time in our poll, captured Bronze.

Thanks to all who cast their ballots in the Reader’s

Marriott ranked as the Best Hotel Brand, repeating its

Choice Awards. If you disagree with this year’s results,

Platinum performance of 2012. It was followed by Hilton

ensure your opinion is voiced in our 2014 Awards—voting

and Drury, the latter a first-time recipient of a Reader’s

starts next August. LGT

10 December 2013

LeisureGroupTravel.com

BEST DOMESTIC DESTINATION

BEST CRUISE LINE

New Orleans • Platinum Alaska • Gold New York City • Bronze

Celebrity Cruises • Platinum Royal Caribbean International • Gold Princess Cruises • Bronze

BEST INTERNATIONAL DESTINATION

BEST MUSEUM

Italy • Platinum Ireland • Gold Germany • Bronze

Smithsonian Institution • Platinum American Museum of Natural History • Gold Museum of Science & Industry • Bronze

BEST TOUR OPERATOR

BEST RAIL EXCURSION

Collette Vacations • Platinum Globus Family of Brands • Gold Premier World Discovery • Bronze

Rocky Mountaineer • Platinum VIA Rail Canada • Gold Durango-Silverton Railroad • Bronze

BEST HOTEL BRAND

BEST BROADWAY SHOW

Marriott • Platinum Hilton • Gold Drury • Bronze

Jersey Boys • Platinum Mamma Mia! • Gold The Book of Mormon • Bronze

LeisureGroupTravel.com

December 2013 11

industry forecast â?–

Buy, Sell or Hold A veteran acquisitions expert offers tips for those who may be thinking of buying or selling a tour company

12 December 2013 stuartmiles/Bigstock.com

t’s the perfect storm, perhaps – an improving economy,

month and he gives me a write-up so I can tell anyone who

hot market sector and aging owners. Acquisitions in the

asks where we sit. If historically you have been just doing quar-

travel and tourism sector are the best they have been in

terly or annual reports, that’s not going to benefit anybody. So

a decade. Is now the time to cash out of the business? Ac-

you certainly need to have good books and records for the year

quire a competitor or complementary business? Or sit tight?

or two prior to the sale of the company in the form of monthly

I

We sat down with Bob Sweeney, president of Alpharetta,

financials. Take copious notes of the expenses that would be

Georgia-based Innovative Travel Acquisitions, Inc. Bob is a

non-recurring to a new owner. For example, a cleaning service,

22-year veteran of the buy, sell or hold game, having exe-

meals, entertainment, cell phones - you need to have that to

cuted hundreds of transactions involving travel and tour com-

the penny. You have to be able to come up with a solid look at

panies.

how much non-recurring expenses af-

Leisure Group Travel: Have you seen

fect the value of your business because

an uptick in transactions in the last year

that’s what the buyer wants to see and

and if so, what do you attribute it to?

you have to be able to document it. The

Bob Sweeney: Yes, there has been an

internal income statement is more im-

incremental increase. What drives most

portant than the tax return.

business sales is the age of the owner

LGT: What about databases and

who is looking to enter into the next phase

customer lists?

of their life. If we had 20 closing transac-

Sweeney: A well-maintained data-

tions during the course of the year, 10

base is important. I think that having a

were planned and 10 occurred because

clean reputation – not being involved

of life. For example, marriage, divorce,

in lawsuits and other affairs – is also

birth, death, sickness, newfound health,

important. Another thing is short con-

spousal transfer, accident or disability. You

tracts. If the tour operator has a loca-

never know, life happens.

tion lease that’s about to be renewed

LGT: Who’s your typical seller?

and they are thinking about selling,

Sweeney: They used to be 63 years old, now it’s been pushed back as people

don’t sign a five-year renewal; negotiBob Sweeney brings year of expertise in matching buyers and sellers of travel firms.

have to work longer before they retire; it’s now closer to 66. But there are still plenty of people out there

ate the shortest terms possible because that new buyer may have

different plans. The same is true for technology.

in their 80s that are running good companies and sharp as

LGT: What do typical buyers look like these days?

tacks; they are doing great. So it doesn’t mean you have to

Sweeney: We are seeing a lot of husbands and wives

stop in your 60s, but it’s the time when most people start to

who were in corporate America and maybe they got a couple

look towards the exit.

of pink slips over the past two or three years and they are

LGT: Why does there never seem to be a transition plan in small tour operator businesses?

Sweeney: You’re right, too often you’re on your hamster wheel trying to run the day-to-day affairs, thinking about what you have to be doing for the next six months. Personally there’s only one blank spot in my week and it is late Sunday afternoon. But it’s important to have a transition plan, especially if you want to sell the business in the next year or two.

There are certainly some things you can do to give the business more curb appeal.

LGT: What would you recommend if someone was thinking about exiting the business? What can they do to give their business more curb appeal?

Sweeney: First of all, the most important thing is to keep good books and records. In this office, I pay my CPA each LeisureGroupTravel.com

“It’s important to have a transition plan, especially if you want to sell the business in the next year or two. There are certainly some things you can do to give the business more curb appeal.”

Bob Sweeney —President, Innovative Travel Acquisitions December 2013 13

industry forecast ❖ tired of it and want to control their own destiny. They have

the business for 20-30 years and they sell it to the first per-

some money in their 401k’s and they want to run their own

son who approaches them. They don’t get a competing bid for

business. They are in their early 50s, so they have another 20

their business, but they do when the plumber comes out. I’ll

years in them. There’s also a strong business-to-business en-

never understand that.

vironment where there’s a regional buyer that needs a piece

And they will say to me, “Oh, well, I have known Charlie for

to their puzzle, but we’re seeing more of the disenfranchised

22 years now.” How can you sell something objectively to your

ex-warriors.

friend? Or if they say they will only sell to someone in their con-

LGT: Is there a market for these travel and tourism businesses?

Sweeney: Sure, it’s sexy, kind of like owning the local bar and grill. They don’t realize that the margins are tight and it’s hard – you have to battle. It’s not hard to get someone from

sortium. That’s like me selling my house only to someone from my subdivision. It’s amazing that after 20-30 years of blood and sweat that this is what sellers do. It’s a classic mistake.

LGT: Any other good reasons to work through a third party?

outside the industry; you get people who have traveled all over

Sweeney: Generic exposure. We don’t advertise who’s

the world, you could even get someone from outside the coun-

for sale. But most importantly it’s the relationships we have

try. It’s such a huge industry, touches on so many things and

developed through the years. When I started this company

there are many different types of companies. I’m amazed that we’re uncovering different types of businesses all the time.

LGT: Are there any niches in the market that you see as being more or less attractive?

Sweeney: From the tours and packages side, we find that single-destination companies light up our scoreboard. You get someone who is just doing Bora Bora or fly fishing – it’s tough to compete in that general tour arena. So it’s specialty tour operators definitely. It’s also digestible and portable from an acquisition standpoint. There are a lot of businesses out there where you have the owner and two or three independent contractors hooked in from their homes and they are making good money. And they are the experts in one particular type of travel. There are plenty of them and they are doing well.

The ideal situation is not to do just one destination but

“The biggest mistake I see out there is that sellers work in the business for 20-30 years and they sell it to the first person who approaches them. They don’t get a competing bid for their business, but they do when the plumber comes out. I’ll never understand that.”

Bob Sweeney —President, Innovative Travel Acquisitions

maybe do another where your calendar gets balanced off.

That seems to be the formula that works. Also, people that

in 1991, I said we are going out to meet the buyers so when

take their hobby or passion and turn it into their business are

I get a listing, I have a good idea of who the buyer might be.

very successful. We see that with sports tours, ski, scuba,

There’s new buyers coming in all the time, but there are time-

culinary, biking, wine – those are the people who do well.

tested companies we’ve sold 5-6 businesses to. They are like

LGT: How do people determine how much their business is worth?

pitchers in baseball – we keep giving the hot ones the ball because they know how to satisfy the sellers.

Sweeney: I get this question a lot and it’s a simple an-

Plus, it’s the quality of our database. There are 75 phone

swer. Your business is worth how much the most motivated

calls outgoing every day here and it’s been that way for 20

buyer is willing to pay you. That’s my job to find that moti-

years. We have our finger on the pulse. Your friend can

vated buyer who is capable and qualified. It’s our job to put

schmooze you out of something.

them through the sifter.

When our firm represents the seller, we have an executed

LGT: Of the transactions you execute, how many former owners are still involved in the business?

confidentiality form in place where the buyer cannot talk about

Sweeney: That depends on the person’s individual situa-

the transaction; then we lift the curtain and try to bring two buy-

tion. If buyers want your business they will accommodate

ers in at a time. Not to play two off the other – we will compare

your schedule. If there’s a seller who says I love the busi-

one to the other and see if we can find a transaction that works.

ness but the day-to-day is too much, we recommend that

The biggest mistake I see out there is that sellers work in

buyers and sellers agree to a series of one-year contracts,

14 December 2013

LeisureGroupTravel.com

LeisureGroupTravel.com

December 2013 15

industry forecast ❖ from home – but for the first year don’t make a lot of big changes.

“The key to selling your company is timing. The risk of selling too early pales in comparison to selling too late.”

LGT: We’ve all been there. Rough day at the office and you’re pulling your hair out. How do you decipher a bad day from a trend? In other words, knowing when is or isn’t the right time to sell?

Sweeney: Here’s the litmus I tell everyone. If you can picture yourself not being the owner of XYZ Tours and that brings a smile on your face, you’re ready. If it brings anything other than a smile, you’re not ready. So picture yourself not

Bob Sweeney

owning your business. How does that make you feel? Some-

—President, Innovative Travel Acquisitions

times it’s like diving off the high dive for the first time. We have to walk them up the stairs. They look over the edge of the

as opposed to a long-term employment agreement. At the

board and sometimes they need someone to have their fin-

end of each year the buyer or seller can walk away from it. If

ger in the small of their back just to say go. But they have to

it’s going good, you can roll with it, if not you part ways at the

be ready; we’re not going to push them.

end of the year. Anybody can do anything for one year, but if you don’t like the new buyer, 4½ years is a long way to go.

LGT: After an acquisition, do you keep the office up and running or close it down?

Sweeney: Certainly the first 12 months from the sale it stays open. After that they can reevaluate. People can work

16 December 2013

If they picture themselves sad at the closing table, don’t enter into the whole process. Because it is a win, not a defeat, when you sell your company. Always remember the key to everything in life and in selling your company is timing.

The risk of selling too early pales in comparison to selling too late. LGT

LeisureGroupTravel.com

on the record ❖

The Future of Student Travel is Looking Bright Brightspark’s new president lays out the goals of this educational tour company

Brightspark President Mike Schields, pictured here in the Swiss Alps, has ambitious plans for the Deerfield, Illinois-based student tour operator.

By Vanessa Day

T

to win the hearts and minds of kids as they travel and are

ravel is a gift, passed down from generation to gen-

exposed to the joys of seeing the world,” he says. “And that

eration. It is a privilege and experience every youth

is pretty powerful from my perspective.”

should have. Mike Schields agrees with these senti-

Brightspark is a member of TUI Travel Group of Compa-

ments. Schields is the new president of Brightspark, and he

nies, one of the largest and most successful travel companies

wants to give more students and youths the opportunity to

in the world. Over 240 brands fall under the TUI umbrella in-

travel all over the world.

cluding 57 brands in the U.S like Europe Express, Gulliver’s

Schields spent the last decade with the Globus Family of

Travel, Adventure Center and iExplore.

Brands, one of the world’s leading travel companies, where he helped the firm achieve some major accomplishments. Now, he’s taken on a new challenge with Brightspark, a student-focused tour operator. It was a difficult decision, Schields says, but the new position created exciting possibilities.

“There’s an opportunity here LeisureGroupTravel.com

Recently, Brightspark under-

“Every year, you’ve got a pipeline of millions of new kids that are potentially travel customers. We have kids coming through who want to travel, who want to see things.” —Mike Schields President, Brightspark

went a brand overhaul to better establish its name in the student travel industry. "Basically there were four companies that did close to the same thing and had complementary business models,” says Schields. So they decided to aggregate the four and combine them under one common brand. “The name is estabDecember 2013 17

on the record ❖ lished now, and the goal is to grow and prosper and attach top quality and service to that name."

And Schields is ready to take on that mission, as well as his new role, which requires him to have an overarching view of all activity.

“It’s basically looking at every aspect of the operation and optimizing it and enhancing it,” he says. “From sales to product development to operations to marketing to communications.” In each of those entities, Schields wants to become the best in the industry, and he believes having a common goal will take the company in the right direction.

And that direction is to make Brightspark a bellwether in the student travel industry. He seeks to improve service levels, increase support and create some differentiation in the products Brightspark offers. Currently, the company’s primary product is the Washington, D.C. trip, as well as some additional destinations such as Boston, New York and Orlando.

Brightspark also has a strong performance and events division, which is showing growth.

But there is a lot more potential out there, especially since the student and youth travel industry has shown significant growth in recent years.

Young people are traveling more and spending more, according to a new report from the World Youth Student and Educational Travel Confederation (WYSTEC). In 2012, young travelers accounted for $217 billion of the $1.088 trillion tourism “spend” around the world, the largest increase of any group of travelers. This segment now represents 20 percent of international tourism.

Schields expects the growth to continue.

“Every year, you’ve got a pipeline of millions of new kids that are potentially travel customers,” he says. “We have kids coming through who want to travel, who want to see things.”

In order to take advantage of the growing number of student and youth travelers, Schields believes Brightspark needs to stand out from the crowd. There is room in the industry for different styles, Schields says. The LeisureGroupTravel.com

company has the opportunity to create something unique and offbeat, as opposed to offering a cookie-cutter eighth grade trip. And that differentiation could come in the form of special tours, lessons and programs that help to cultivate a student’s life.

It isn’t just the amount of travel that has changed; the very nature of it has, too. WYSE Travel Confederation’s report found that the reasons for people traveling have shifted significantly, and the motivations behind it show a rise in cultural tourism. More than ever, young people want to enrich their lives and are traveling to gain work, educational and cultural experiences. Young travelers are touring the world in order to improve their resumes, according to the report. In fact, 22 percent of young travelers want to learn a language, 15 percent want to gain work experience and 15 percent travel to study.

The desire to better oneself through travel is a concept with which Schields is very familiar. When asked why student travel is so important, Schields’ first response was that it breaks down barriers. “It’s the best way for kids to be exposed to different ways of life and different ways of thinking,” he says. “It educates beyond the classroom.”

And this is what students and youths are seeking, an experience that is completely foreign and exotic. The WYSETC study found that the places young people are traveling to are changing and reflect this trend. They are spending less time in major gateway cities and exploring more remote destinations. The reason for this, according to Schields, is that many kids today have well-traveled parents, and, as a result, are very well traveled themselves. This means they’ve been to many of the major U.S. cities, including Washington, D.C., and New York, and are now looking to visit more exotic destinations, including places

© Blue Man Productions, LLC.

in Central and South America, two of the biggest up and coming markets for travel.

While this creates more opportunities for travel companies to build new itineraries, it is also a challenge, says Schields, as many companies are already in the market promoting these types of trips. Brightspark has already started working the international market, and

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Student Travel Planning Made Easy he 2014 Student Travel Planning Guide, redesigned from cover to cover, is a gold mine for anyone who packages student group trips. Filled with expert advice, the fifth annual edition of this print publication features a slew of new articles written by experts in their fields. Topics range from negotiating group airfares and hotel rates to hiring extra security and choosing a volunteer program provider. Articles also spotlight fundraising ideas and the latest in tech tools.

Mixing how-to information with listings of destinations, attractions and hotels eager to host student groups, the 52-page Student Travel Planning Guide is “a valuable resource full of fresh ideas for educators and anyone involved in putting together youth trips,” said Randy Mink, managing editor. The guide is published by Premier Tourism Marketing, the parent company of Leisure Group Travel.

T

Planning Syllabus…

Don’t miss a step with planning tools, including an interactive copy of this guide you can share with colleagues (plagiarism encouraged)

Student group travel planners will find even more sources online at StudentTravelPlanningGuide.com. Destination-focused articles provide practical information on hundreds of student-friendly locations worldwide, while fun-to-read checklists of recommendations in various categories lay out top picks in subjects as diverse as music museums, safari parks and shopping malls. Readers also will find tips on chartering a motorcoach, chaperone selection and mapping out a trip timeline. In addition, they have full access to the digital edition of the print guide.

The online profiles database contains hundreds of hotel, tour operator, attraction, dining and venue suppliers to meet your research and planning needs. Also browse the large collection of sample itineraries.

All of this online content is wrapped in an easy-to-navigate website that allows you to search, review and read information

The 2014 Student Travel Planning Guide has been beefed up with new content.

pertaining only to your destination of choice–in a format that automatically adjusts to give you the best experience with whatever device you are using: PC, tablet or smartphone.

Together, the print and online editions of the Student Travel Planning Guide provide a complete solution to your student travel planning needs. I

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But there is certainly more potential and Brightspark is looking to take it to the next level.

“I’m super excited at the opportunity,” says Schields. “I think there’s a tremendous amount of potential. It’s a great company, a great brand. [And] we’re going to make it better.” LGT

– At a Glance Formed: 2010 with the merger of Educational Tours, National Events, New Horizons Tour and Travel and Travel Adventures. Part of the TUI Travel PLC. Specialty: Student tours to major domestic destinations, such as Washington DC, New York and Orlando, with additional performancebased events Headquarters: Deerfield, IL Contact: 888-995-5579, brightsparktravel.com

When it comes to group fun, you’ll find out Wisconsin Dells is more than just “The Waterpark Capital of the World!® ” From boat tours to dining, wineries, historic attractions and more, Wisconsin Dells is the group tour destination that keeps on giving.

MeetInTheDells.com | groups@wisdells.com | (800) 223-3557

LeisureGroupTravel.com

December 2013 21

HOTEL INDUSTRY OUTLOOK

Pleasant Dreams

This guest room in Norton, Kansas reflects Sleep Inn’s Designed to Dream concept. The brand is Choice Hotels’ leader in new construction.

Citing new programs, new construction and higher occupancy, hotel executives express optimism for 2014

By Harry Peck

T

in the number of rooms in the total active pipeline compared

here’s good news for 2014 if you follow the hotel market.

with September 2012 and a 29.5 percent increase in rooms

“US Group Hotel Sales Opening 2014 with Increased

under construction.

Growth” sang the headline on Hospitalitynet.org.

With an improved economic sector and more travelers on

The story reports the North American Hospitality Review

the road, hotel companies poised for growth are in a good spot.

projects an improving 2014 outlook, with group sales over the

Leisure Group Travel went in search of examples of hotel com-

past month outpacing the same period last year by almost

panies that are properly positioned. Hotel executives are gen-

50%. The data came from the October 2013 TravelClick North

erally guarded regarding requests for information, but Leisure

American Hospitality Review (NAHR).

Group Travel was able to illustrate the emerging trend by talk-

For the ensuing 12 months, overall committed occupancy

ing with two of them. Both were upbeat about the future.

is up 7.4 percent when compared with the same time last

Gail Sayadian, Director of Leisure Sales, Global Sales,

year. Average daily rate (ADR) is up three percent based on

Choice Hotels International, said that in 2014 the company will

reservations already on the books. (To see all the statistics,

continue with “Comfort Re-imagined,” a $40-million effort for

with projected increases across markets, go to: hospitali-

the Comfort Inn brand, aimed at encouraging 1,900 domestic

tynet.org/news/4062740.html.)

Comfort Inn and Comfort Suites to quickly and efficiently per-

There’s also an enormous pipeline of new projects under-

form renovations. The goal is maintaining a consistent quality

way. In the US alone, 2,767 projects totaling 333,775 rooms

across the brand. The company has a global total of 2,500

are under development, according to the September 2013

Comfort Inns and Comfort Suites.

STR Pipeline Report. This represents a 15.6 percent increase 22 December 2013

The Choice vice president called the $40 million of brand LeisureGroupTravel.com

HOTEL INDUSTRY OUTLOOK “Our timing couldn’t be more perfect with consumers’ desire for upscale hotel design shifting from aspirational to that of a standard expectation.”

—Karen Hamilton, Carlson Rezidor VP Global Sales improvement incentive money “an unprecedented turbo boost” to energize existing franchisees. All qualifying domestic Comfort brand hotels may apply to the company for financing with favorable repayment terms. Such renovations must be completed by Sept. 30, 2014.

“As far as the quality of the guest experience, travelers are seeing and feeling it already,” Sayadian said. Some of the improvements include 154,000 flat-panel televisions and a quarter million pillows, with another three quarter million pillows set for delivery in 2014.

Groups using the Comfort brands enjoy a free and recently enhanced Your Morning Breakfast, which includes eggs, meat and two flavors of waffles. Healthy options like oatmeal, hardboiled eggs and yogurt are also available. Sayadian noted a huge increase in breakfast scores year-over-year since the program launch.

Another good group breakfast option is at the Clarion brand, also owned by Choice Hotels. Choice will complete the “Bistro C” rollout in 2014, with a cook-toorder menu and meals economical enough to serve the group

Filini is the smart Italian restaurant in Chicago’s Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel.

markets and allow the company to see a slight profit, Sayadian

tended Stay Hotel, EconoLodge and

said. This concept is part of a

Rodeway Inn brands, as well as its

broader strategic effort to make

Ascend Hotel Collection member-

Clarion the go-to option for group

ship program, serve guests world-

travel in the mid-scale lodging

wide. All hotels are independently

segment. She added that guests traveling to gather for events

owned and operated.

Minnesota’s Mall of America boasts a new Radisson Blu.

The Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group

such as meetings, reunions and social occasions account for

will spend 2014 working towards the final quarter of its goals

70-90 million room nights per year in the mid-scale market.

laid out in the Ambition 2015 global strategy. The Radisson

The Choice Hotels flag currently ranking at the top for new

brand has been a key focal point of this strategy and by 2013’s

construction is Sleep Inns. The 100th property was built in

end, Radisson will have completed the first 75 percent of its

2013. Travelers can now find the Designed to Dream concept

Property Improvement Plans (PIPS) across its over 140 ho-

in both large and small markets.

tels. Karen Hamilton, Carlson Rezidor’s VP Global Sales, the

Choice Hotels franchises over 6,200 hotels, representing more than 500,000 rooms, according to figures released in

Americas, said the Radisson hotels should be considered the “most refreshed” in the upscale market segment.

March, 2013. At that time, Choice listed 395 hotels represent-

“Our timing couldn’t be more perfect with consumers’ de-

ing more than 31,000 rooms as being under construction,

sire for upscale hotel design shifting from aspirational to that of

awaiting conversions or approved for development in the U.S.

a standard expectation,” she said.

Additionally, 88 hotels representing approximately 7,800 rooms

Hamilton said she expected to see moderate growth of all

were under construction in 20 other countries and territories.

brands with anticipated signings of 122 properties globally in

The company’s Comfort Inn, Comfort Suites, Quality, Sleep

2014. Current portfolio for Carlson Rezidor Hotel Group in-

Inn, Clarion, Cambria Suites, MainStay Suites, Suburban Ex-

cludes 1,307 hotels in operation and under development, to-

LeisureGroupTravel.com

December 2013 23

HOTEL INDUSTRY OUTLOOK “As far as the quality of the guest experience, travelers are seeing and feeling it already.”

—Gail Sayadian, Director of Leisure Sales, Global Sales Choice Hotels International Radisson Re-Imagined program, the company is re-launching its Meeting Success Service Concept to better deliver on the evolving needs of guests and make Radisson Hotels the preferred choice for selecting a meetings and events venue. The An inviting lobby welcomes guests at the Comfort Suites in Fargo, N.D.

Meetings Success program has been refreshed and redesigned to assist hotels in delivering a meetings experience

taling 209,311 rooms, plus these global brands: Radisson Blu,

that will stand out to guests and meeting planners alike, and be

Radisson, Park Plaza, Park Inn by Radisson, and Country Inns

replicable as a consistent offering at all properties.

& Suites by Carlson.

The company announced new programs for its meetings and events segment for Radisson Blu and Radisson. The Radisson Blu “Experience Meetings” program is set to launch globally in January.

Additionally, Club Carlson for Planners is a program used at

Hamilton said Radisson has an initiative underway as part of a website upgrades program to make enhancements to the group/meeting pages.

Regarding groups, and with all of this activity, Hamilton said “We are seeing a strong performance from the sports market across the portfolio.”

more than 1,000 participating hotels worldwide, Hamilton said.

We’re watching to see how well the group markets perform

Meetings and event planners who are members of Club Carl-

in the coming year. Two hotel companies waiting to seize group

son have the opportunity to earn points for meeting rooms,

travel opportunities are Choice Hotels and the Carlson Rezidor

sleep rooms and food and beverage expenses. As part of the

Hotel Group. LGT

24 December 2013

LeisureGroupTravel.com

LeisureGroupTravel.com

December 2013 25

on location ❖ midwest

Ten Tour-ific Nebraska Museums Whether your gang wants to connect with the Wild West, marvel at military aircraft, explore the sport of roller skating or dive into the origins of Kool-Aid, the Cornhusker State has just the place to drink it all in

By Randy Mink

Omaha’s Durham Museum is housed in a former train station.

W

hat better way to absorb the pathos of the American West than by spending time at a museum where pioneer lore and Plains Indian culture spring to life. All across Nebraska you’ll find museums that spotlight our

nation’s early settlement and thirst for westward expansion.

If your group’s interests lean more to science and art, there are outstanding choices for them as well. Here are 10 museums worth a spot on your next Nebraska itinerary: Museum of the Fur Trade, Chadron. In the state’s western Panhandle region, visitors can trace the history of the North American fur trade, the oldest business in the New World. Exhibits spotlight the everyday lives of British, French and Spanish traders, voyageurs, mountain men, professional buffalo hunters, and Plains and Woodland Indians. On display is the entire range of goods that were traded to American Indians in exchange for their furs, including munitions, cutlery, axes,

Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer is a trip into yesteryear.

firearms, textiles, paints and beads. One blanket dates back to 1775. On the museum grounds are a garden of nearly extinct crops that were grown by the Indians and a re-creation of the 1837-1876 Bordeaux Trading Place, built on the original foundation stones. (furtrade.org) Stuhr Museum of the Prairie Pioneer, Grand Island. This 200-acre living history complex tells the story of Nebraska’s early days. In the 1890s Railroad Town, a village of 60 historical buildings, visitors explore shops, period homes and barns where townspeople demonstrate crafts and go about their daily lives. One home is the birthplace of actor Henry Fonda. See a multi-media presentation and exhibits about Nebraska history in the Stuhr Building, designed by noted architect Edward Durell Stone. American Indian and Old West artifacts are displayed in Fonner Rotunda. (stuhrmuseum.org)

Soar into the heavens at the Strategic Air & Space Museum.

Harold Warp’s Pioneer Village, Minden. More than 50,000 antiques, housed in 26 buildings, comprise one of the world’s largest collections of Americana.

Highlights include a sod house, log cabin, Pawnee earth lodge, 1872 railway depot, original Pony Express station and a general store stocked with 19th century merchandise. Craftspeople demonstrate weaving, spinning and broom making. A collection of 350 antique cars (including the world’s oldest Buick), 20 airplanes and 100 tractors also sweeps visitors back to yesteryear, and they can see examples of seven generations of American kitchens since the 1830s. (pioneervillage.org) The Durham Museum, Omaha. Occupying a splendid 1931 Art Deco train station, the Durham offers your ticket to yesteryear. Walk through vintage train cars and learn about the importance of the Union Pacific railroad to the region. Other

Antique vehicles dazzle car buffs at the Hastings Museum.

26 December 2013

exhibits reveal the stories of the immigrants and business people who shaped LeisureGroupTravel.com

Obtain Nebraska visitor guides and itineraries and contact groupfriendly suppliers directly at leisuregrouptravel.com/instant-info

Omaha’s destiny. See rare coins and manuscripts, peek into

gas-powered pair. (rollerskatingmuseum.com)

replica storefronts and don’t forget to treat yourself at the vintage

Hastings Museum, Hastings. One must-see exhibit features

soda fountain. The Durham also has traveling exhibitions, such as

the history of Kool-Aid, which was invented in Hastings by Edwin

The 1968 Exhibit (Feb. 8-May 4, 2014). (durhammuseum.org)

Perkins in 1927. View vintage Kool-Aid commercials and see the

Joslyn Art Museum, Omaha. Nebraska’s largest art museum

original Kool-Aid Man costume worn in them. Also learn about pio-

presents a collection spanning from antiquity to the present, with an

neer settlement and Indian tribes, study wildlife in natural habitat dio-

emphasis on 19th and 20th century European and American art.

ramas, watch 3-D movies in the Lied Super Screen Theatre and see

Some of the most popular works depict the American West and

shows in J.M. McDonald Planetarium. (hastingsmuseum.org) LGT

Plains Indian cultures. Artists represented include Thomas Hart Benton, Grant Wood, Frederic Remington, Edgar Degas, Claude Monet and Pierre Auguste Renoir. (joslyn.org) Strategic Air & Space Museum, Ashland. This impressive repository of military aircraft, missiles and spacecraft lies just outside of Omaha, near Offutt Air Force Base, once the headquarters of the nation’s Strategic Air Command. Exhibits shed light on the Air Command’s efforts during the Cold War. Artifacts include SR-7 Blackbird reconnaissance plane, warplanes like the B-52 bomber and MiG-21 fighter jet, and an Apollo Command Space Module. Planetarium shows are available. (sasmuseum.com) Nebraska History Museum, Lincoln. Experience everything Nebraska on a journey from prehistoric days to the present. Permanent exhibits include Building the State: Nebraska, 1867-1916; The First Nebraskans (Plains Indians); and Nebraskans in World War II. (nebraskahistory.org) University of Nebraska Museums, Lincoln.

Visitors are attracted to the university by more than Cornhusker football games. On both the east and city campuses are several museums that cover a wide variety of subjects. The University of Nebraska State Museum of Natural History features the world’s finest collection of fossil elephants and offers shows at Mueller Planetarium. Other museums include the Great Plains Art Museum, Sheldon Museum of Art, International Quilt Study Center & Museum and Larsen Tractor Museum. (museum.unl.edu) National Museum of Roller Skating, Lincoln.

Take a whirl around this offbeat museum, which features an intriguing collection of roller skating memorabilia. The only museum of its kind in the world, it examines roller skating as a sport, recreation and an industry, featuring skates, costumes, trophies, artwork and films of skating competitions.

Skates date back to 1819 and include a bizarre, LeisureGroupTravel.com

December 2013 27

EXPLORE

Create unforgettable Minnesota memories. From the Mississippi River Headwaters to shimmering Lake Superior. Follow the Great River Road or 20 other Scenic byways. Festivals for music and fun. World-class dining and theater, concerts, museums, shopping and other hands-on attractions. For group travel planning, visit traveltrade.exploreminnesota.com

THERE’S MORE TO EXPLORE IN MINNESOTA

SM

SOUTH DAKOTA O U T D O O R S

Soft adventure activities, from fishing and boating to hiking and biking, lure active travelers to the mountains, lakes and prairies

LeisureGroupTravel.com

December 2013 29

South Dakota

I

By Randy Mink

t could be a peaceful day of canoeing on a lazy river, an exhilarating bike ride through pine forests or fishing for walleye in the secluded channel of a vast reservoir. Perhaps your idea of ad-

venture in South Dakota’s wide-open spaces is spotting birds you’ve never seen before or hiking to the highest point in the state. For a real adrenaline rush, try rock climbing.

While tour planners can create a South Dakota itinerary devoted exclusively to tourist magnets that bring to life the state’s Wild West past, explore Native American culture and spotlight scenic beauty, there are alternatives to passive sightseeing. It’s easy to add a dash of soft adventure to your program and still see Mount Rushmore.

For young and physically active groups, the whole trip can revolve around outdoor recreation.

South Dakota abounds with state parks and recreation areas, national parks and wildlife refuges, dozens of lakes and rivers, and hundreds of miles of hiking and biking trails. Overnight options in the parks range from campgrounds and air-conditioned cabins to lodges with the comforts of home.

Custer State Park, one of the country’s largest state parks, is a chief draw for outdoor enthusiasts in the Black Hills region of western South Dakota. A kingdom of towering pines and massive granite outcroppings, the park is best known for its herd of nearly 1,300 free-roaming bison and 18-mile-long Wildlife Loop Road, where motorists are rewarded with sightings not only of buffalo, but prairie dogs, mule deer, mountain goats and panhandling burros as well.

Buffalo Safari Jeep Tours are a must for groups.

The park also can be explored on foot via one of 11 hiking trails,

all of which allow mountain biking (rentals available at the park).

One trail goes to the top of 7,242-foot Harney Peak, the highest point east of the Rocky Mountains as well as highest point in the state. Those who make the 6.6-mile trek, a four- to five-hour roundtrip, relish a four-state panoramic view from a stone lookout tower. The more daring can sign up with Sylvan Rock Climbing School & Guide Service for a rock climbing adventure that tackles a few of the granite spires in the park’s Needles-Sylvan Lake district.

Custer State Park’s four lakes are well-stocked with trout, crappie and perch, and all offer swimming beaches. Park accommodations include eight campgrounds, 50 camping cabins and four historic resort lodges. Ranger-guided nature walks and evening programs are available.

Traversing sections of the park is the 68-mile-long Peter Norbeck Scenic Byway. Be aware, however, that most motorcoaches cannot fit through the tunnels. Three trailheads in the park provide access to the Centennial Trail, popular with bicyclists.

The George S. Mickelson Trail, a rails-to-trails project that attracts hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders, traces an Outdoor enthusiasts find oceans of fun in South Dakota’s Great Lakes and acres of wilderness in Custer State Park, a Black Hills favorite.

All Photos Courtesy of South Dakota Department of Tourism

Many ranches and state parks offer horseback riding opportunities.

abandoned Burlington Northern line through the Black Hills Na-

but there are several marked trails. The shorter ones can be

tional Forest. The 109-mile trail from Deadwood to Edgemont

completed in 20-30 minutes, while the mostly level Castle Trail

offers a high-quality surface of gravel and crushed limestone,

is a 10-mile roundtrip that takes about five hours.

with mostly gentle grades, though a few portions are consid-

Central South Dakota, known as the Great Lakes region, is

ered strenuous. There are 15 trailheads, so it’s possible to do

dominated by the Missouri River and its four dam-created reser-

bite-size segments. The trail passes through prairie, meadows,

voirs—Lake Oahe, Lake Sharpe, Lake Francis Case and Lewis

and stands of pine and spruce. Many old railroad trestles are

& Clark Lake. Fishing, boating and birding options abound, and

still in place, and there are four rock tunnels.

there are lodges, resorts and marinas all along the lakes.

For those who like their fresh air on the fairways, the Black

Birders know the Missouri valley as the major North Amer-

Hills has 19 golf courses. Prime among them is Southern Hills

ican migratory waterfowl flyway, a vast area where many of

near Hot Springs, a course highly rated by Golfweek and Golf

South Dakota’s 400 bird species can be spotted. The Great

Digest. Set among creeks and ponderosa pines, it offers stun-

Lakes Birding Trail runs on both sides of the river. On areas

ning views from every tee. In Rapid City, The Golf Club at Red

of open prairie you might find the greater prairie chicken or bur-

Rock was rated by Golfweek as the No. 1 public course in

rowing owls in prairie dog towns. Barn owls nest and roost in

South Dakota.

burrows dug in cliff faces along the river. Novice and experi-

Badlands National Park, a stark, other-worldly realm of

enced birders flock to Fort Randall on the first weekend in May

buttes, pinnacles and gorges just east of the Black Hills, lures

for the South Dakota Birding Festival, where activities in-

hikers and backcountry explorers. All areas are open for hiking,

clude bird banding, bird identification and guided field trips.

LeisureGroupTravel.com

December 2013 31

What’s New in South Dakota Good Earth State Park at Blood Run, near Sioux Falls, is South Dakota’s newest state park and the largest Oneota cultural site in the Upper Midwest. This swath of prairie was an important gathering place for seasonal ceremonies and a trading center for many tribal peoples from 1300-1700 A.D.

South Dakota

Lakota Ways, a new Native American arts and cultural center in Wall, includes an Indian crafts boutique, fine art gallery and hands-on experiences such as beadwork, porcupine quillwork, tipi raising, traditional storytelling and warrior face painting. Other highlights are day and evening shows and the reopened Wounded Knee Museum.

The Mount Rushmore Society recently opened the Mount Rushmore Memories store in Hill City. It offers regional books, art, collectibles, apparel and visitor information.

The Museum of the American Bison and Great Plains Center, which opened last spring in Rapid City, tells the story of this shaggy beast from its prehistoric beginnings to its near extinction, how the bison impacted the development of the Wild West and those who helped save the remaining bison at the end of the 1800s.

The Sculpture Project: Passage of Wind and Water in Rapid City, the largest privately funded public art commission in the country right now, is made up of 21 large pieces of granite arranged around two street sides of Main Street Square that will be sculpted on site over the next five years.

The Deadwood Mountain Grand in Deadwood just became a Holiday Inn Resort®. Formerly a historical mining building, the property includes six floors comprising 98 guest rooms, plus a casino, indoor pool, spa, fitness center and event center.

10 Top Events for 2014 JANUARY-FEBRUARY Black Hills Stock Show & Rodeo, Rapid City, Jan. 31-Feb. 9. Come for the rodeo, sheep dog trials and 90-some other agriculture-driven events.

JUNE Fort Sisseton Historical Festival, Fort Sisseton Historical State Park, near Lake City, June 6-8. Fur traders and cavalry troops converge on this 1864 fort, bringing frontier days to life in a military encampment.

The Black Hills’ George S. Mickelson Trail is a rails-to-trails project.

Missouri River anglers enjoy remote channels and bays as well as endless expanses of open water. Walleye reigns supreme on all four reservoirs but is followed closely by smallmouth bass and channel catfish. Lake Oahe, the largest lake at a whopping 232 miles long, is the only one with a big population of northern pike and the only one with salmon, a result of yearly stocking. Besides fishing, water sports include sailing and windsurfing (especially on Lewis & Clark, with its tree-covered shoreline and chalky bluffs), kayaking, canoeing, waterskiing and swimming. Hikers and bikers take to many trails located in communities, parks and public lands along the river.

In northeastern South Dakota, the Glacial Lakes & Prairies region also attracts birdwatchers. Thousands of migratory birds make stopovers at the Sand Lake and Waubay national wildlife refuges, which are among 38 sites on the Glacial Lakes & Prairies Birding Trail.

The Southeast tourism region of South Dakota encompasses the Missouri National Recreational River, part of the nation’s Wild & Sce-

Siouxland Renaissance Festival, June 7-8. Lords, ladies, merchants and peasants hark back to the days of Queen Elizabeth I.

nic Rivers System. Forming much of the border between South Dakota

Crazy Horse Volksmarch, Crazy Horse Memorial, near Custer, June 7-8 and Sept. 28-29. Thousands join the most popular organized hike in the United States on a 10K (6.2-mile) trek to the arm of the world’s largest mountain carving in progress.

Bluffs along some stretches provide scenic backdrops for anglers,

Wild Bill Hickok Days, Deadwood, June 13-15. Free entertainment highlights the tribute to the man who helped build the fame and fortune of this Wild West town.

is one of the state’s best streams for whitewater enthusiasts.

JULY Laura Ingalls Wilder Pageant, De Smet, July 11-13, 18-20 and 25-27.

This outdoor theater production dramatizes stories of pioneer life as depicted in Wilder’s beloved Little House books.

Days of ’76, Deadwood, July 22-26. A wild ’n’ wooly event first held in 1924, it features real-life cowboys, rodeos, Main Street parades, national entertainers and Old West chow.

AUGUST Corn Palace Festival, Mitchell, Aug. 20-24. Thousands gather for a carnival and big-name entertainers.

South Dakota State Fair, Huron, Aug. 28-Sept. 1. Enjoy 4-H exhibits, a carnival midway and six stages of free entertainment.

and Nebraska, it is a meandering river with no dams or channelization. kayakers and canoers. Paddlers in the Southeast also find contentment on the Big Sioux, James, and Vermillion rivers, while Split Rock Creek Southeast playgrounds include Lewis & Clark Recreation Area, a prime camping, hiking and mountain biking destination on the banks of Lewis & Clark Lake and the Missouri River, west of Yankton. Newton Hills State Park, near Canton, has an exceptional trail for birdwatchers and an observation tower that affords breathtaking views, especially during fall color season. Palisades State Park, near Garretson and a half hour from Sioux Falls, is a geologic wonder overlooking Split Rock Creek; the prairie oasis, noted for its sheer cliff walls and red quartzite spires, ranks as one of the Midwest’s premier rock climbing sites. Sioux Falls, the state’s largest city, makes a good base of operations for touring the Southeast and offers five first-rate golf courses.

Everyone knows South Dakota as the land of Great Faces and

SEPTEMBER

Great Places. Those who relish a shady campsite, a woodland trail or

Custer State Park Buffalo Roundup Arts Festival, Sept. 26-28. This ABA Top 100 Event for 2014 features the rounding up of buffalo on Friday morning and a weekend arts festival.

a relaxing day on the water appreciate it for something special—the

32 December 2013

great outdoors. LGT LeisureGroupTravel.com

on location: northeast ❖

Best of Baltimore Top Attractions

By Randy Mink

Visit Baltimore

The National Aquarium, a top draw for tour groups at Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, showcases a vast array of marine life, from sharks to jellyfish.

O

ne of the East Coast’s great port cities, Baltimore

Baltimore Museum of Art

brims with reminders of America’s past. Charm City is

A wide-ranging collection includes

the birthplace of American railroading and the Na-

treasures from Africa, Asia, Oceania

tional Anthem, and through September of 2014 it’s celebrating

and the Americas, in addition to eight

the bicentennial of the War of 1812 and the penning of “The

galleries of European Old Masters

Star-Spangled Banner.”

and works by Cezanne, Gaugin, Renoir, Van Gogh and Picasso. The

more, reigns supreme as the go-to place for tourists. Rich in

largest museum in Maryland, lo-

maritime lore, it abounds with shops, restaurants and attrac-

cated next to the main campus of

tions like the National Aquarium and Maryland Science Center.

The Johns Hopkins University, boasts what is reputedly

Fun neighborhoods like Little Italy, Mount Vernon and Federal

the world’s largest Henri Matisse collection. The contempo-

Hill offer their own lures. Fell’s Point, Baltimore’s original sea-

rary art wing displays many Andy Warhol paintings. Also

port, still has cobblestone streets and attracts visitors with lively

view furniture, decorative arts, period rooms and a sculpture

pubs and funky little shops.

garden. The exhibition German Expressionism (Jan. 29

Visit Baltimore

The Inner Harbor, as the vibrant heart of downtown Balti-

Situated between Washington, D.C. and Philadelphia,

through October 2014) presents an overview of the revolu-

Maryland’s largest city fits well into many Eastern Seaboard

tionary art movement that flourished in Germany during the

itineraries. Here are a dozen attractions worth checking out on

first three decades of the 20th century. Admission is free.

a trip to Baltimore:

(artbma.org)

LeisureGroupTravel.com

December 2013 37

on location: northeast ❖

Obtain Maryland visitor guides and itineraries and contact groupfriendly suppliers directly at leisuregrouptravel.com/instant-info

Historic Ships of Baltimore Baltimore’s nautical heritage is on display at the Inner Harbor,

freshwater animals, from snakes,

with four ships docked at Piers 1, 3

electric eels and jellyfish to sharks,

and 5 open for touring. The triple-

dolphins and birds. The new Black-

masted USS Constellation is the

tip Reef, an Indo-Pacific ocean ex-

last all-sail war ship built by the

hibit, includes blacktip reef sharks, whiptail rays, Calypso the green

Visit Baltimore

Five levels of exhibits feature more than 17,000 marine and

Visit Baltimore

National Aquarium

U.S. Navy and the only Civil Warera vessel still afloat. Also see the

sea turtle and zebra sharks Zoe and Zeke. Upland Tropical

WWII submarine Torsk, the Lightship Chesapeake and the

Rain Forest has sloths, monkeys, parrots and poison dart

U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Taney, the last ship afloat to have

frogs. Also popular are Animal Planet Australia: Wild Ex-

survived the attack on Pearl Harbor. Climb the 1856 Seven

tremes, Atlantic Coral Reef, Amazon River Forest and Mary-

Foot Knoll Lighthouse, which once stood at the entrance of

land: Mountains to Sea, with freshwater stream and tidal

Baltimore Harbor. Group tours include hands-on activities.

marsh habitats. Prominently located at the Inner Harbor, the

(historicships.org)

aquarium also offers a theater with 4-D immersion films. (aqua.org)

Spirit Cruises

Top of the World Observation Level

waterfront from the deck of a ship.

See the Inner Harbor and historic The Spirit of Baltimore offers yearround lunch, brunch and dinner

Center, the world’s tallest pentag-

cruises with buffet dining, dancing

onal building, provide 360-degree

and a DJ playing Top 40 hits. The

panoramic views of the Inner Har-

Inner Harbor Spirit does 75-minute

bor and city skyline. Information

sightseeing cruises, traveling from

panels spotlight Baltimore landmarks and historical milestones.

Visit Baltimore

Floor-to-ceiling windows on the 27th floor of the World Trade

the Inner Harbor past Fort McHenry and back; a cocktail cruise is available for groups of 20 and more. The Seadog

One exhibit honors the 68 Maryland residents who lost their

speedboat offers thrill-packed, 50-minute sightseeing rides in

lives on 9/11, and a large memorial in front of the building is

the warmer months and can be chartered for 20 and up.

made of steel beams from New York’s World Trade Center

(spiritcruisesbaltimore.com)

and limestone from the Pentagon. The building is located next to the National Aquarium. (viewbaltimore.org)

Oriole Park at Camden Yards Take in a Baltimore Orioles base-

Maryland Science Center

ball game and/or tour this classically designed ballpark, the first of the

body and the world of dinosaurs at

fan-friendly, retro-style parks that

one of the country’s top science

started a stadium design trend in the

museums. Stand inside a beating

1990s. Tours include the Orioles

heart chamber, hear digestion

dugout, press area, scoreboard con-

noises and, through groundbreak-

trol room and a luxury suite. At the

ing video technology, follow a

stadium is the Sports Legends Museum at Camden Yards,

cherry tomato as it travels from the mouth to the stomach. A

which salutes local college and professional sports and has

giant mechanical blue crab is the focus of an exhibit focusing

an Orioles Hall of Fame. Three blocks west is the Babe Ruth

on the Chesapeake Bay and its relationship to Maryland and

Birthplace and Museum, a shrine packed with photos,

the Mid-Atlantic. Located at the Inner Harbor, the Maryland

memorabilia and film clips that pay tribute to Baltimore

Science Center offers three levels of hands-on exhibits, plus

native George Herman “Babe” Ruth, the legendary Yankees

giant-screen IMAX films and multimedia presentations in

slugger who became America’s first sports celebrity.

Davis Planetarium. (marylandsciencecenter.org)

(orioles.com, baberuthmuseum.org)

38 December 2013

Maryland Office of Tourism

Explore outer space, the human

LeisureGroupTravel.com

The Walters Art Museum A collection spanning 5,000 years is

seum displays an eclectic, quirky collec-

housed in three buildings in the historic Mt.

tion of works created by people who lack

Vernon Cultural District. Objects range from

artistic training but feel compelled to paint,

Egyptian mummies, Greek sculpture and

draw or make things from matchsticks.

Roman sarcophagi to Renaissance suits of

Visit Baltimore

Far from a stuffy experience, this mu-

You might be enamored by the ocean liner made from 100,000 toothpicks or the

Maryland Office of Tourism

American Visionary Art Museum

armor, Faberge eggs and Old Masters paintings. Hackerman House displays over 1,000 works of Chinese,

throne constructed mostly from flattened bottle caps. Check out the

Southeast Asian and Indian art in a beautifully renovated 1850 town-

human figure carved from an apple tree trunk, a mirror adorned with

house; highlights include Japanese arms and armor, porcelains, lac-

melted candles or the family of kinetic robot sculptures crafted from

quers and metalwork. Also view Islamic art, Art Nouveau jewelry,

junkyard scraps. The front of the curvaceous building is marked by

and 19th century European and American masterpieces. General

the Giant Whirligig, a 55-foot wind-powered sculpture and beloved

admission is free. (thewalters.org)

Baltimore landmark. (avam.org)

Baltimore & Ohio Railroad Museum Fort McHenry National Monument

This indoor-outdoor museum, in the

Situated at the entrance to Baltimore’s

birthplace of American railroading, boasts

harbor, Fort McHenry was the home of

the largest collection of 19th century loco-

the flag that inspired lawyer Francis Scott

motives in North America. Vintage engines

Key to write the lyrics to “The Star-Span-

and rolling stock are displayed on outdoor

gled Banner” in 1814. He had witnessed a

platforms and under the roundhouse dome

War of 1812 battle in which valiant Amer-

covering a wooden turntable. Besides examining trains and railroad

ican defenders thwarted a British advance

memorabilia, visitors can take a nostalgic 20-minute ride on the first

amid “the rockets’ red glare and bombs bursting in air.” The star-

commercial railroad track in America. (borail.org)

shaped brick fort offers historical displays and a short movie featuring the U.S. Naval Choir singing the National Anthem. Visitors can roam the ramparts and on summer weekends watch costumed members of the Fort McHenry Guard conduct drills and fire weapons. (nps.gov/fomc)

Lexington Market Established in 1782, this downtown Baltimore landmark claims to be the oldest continuously operating market in the country. Some 140 merchants sell preor take-away), bakery goods, produce, meats and fresh seafood from

Visit Baltimore

pared foods (for eat-in

the Chesapeake Bay. Vendors include delis, Chinese takeout places and raw oyster stands.

Try the fabled crabcakes at Faidley Seafood and the cookies at Bergers Bakery in the food court. The hectic, crowded market, which underwent a renovation in 2002, provides groups with an alternative to the city’s standard tourist attractions. (lexingtonmarket.com) LeisureGroupTravel.com

December 2013 39

Hawaii

PERILLO’S

Perillo guests on “The Three Islander” package begin their adventure in paradise with a three-night hotel stay at world-famous Waikiki Beach.

I

n the minds of many travel professionals, Perillo Tours is

$3,359, double occupancy, for the land portion, the program

synonymous with escorted vacations to Italy. As America’s

includes three nights on each island.

oldest and largest travel company to Italy, the third-gener-

DAY 1

After landing in Honolulu, you’ll be met at the

ation family operation has been running tours there for 68

Hyatt Regency Waikiki with a traditional lei greeting. Dinner

years. But many Perillo travelers are greeted with a warm

is your choice—in the Hyatt’s new SWIM poolside lounge, at

“Aloha” rather than a hearty “Buongiorno,” as the company

one of its two brand new restaurants or from the comfort of

also commands a strong presence in Hawaii.

your own ocean-view balcony. A $40 per person hotel food and

Perillo, in fact, is celebrating its 25th year in the Hawaii market. The New Jersey-based tour operator (perillotours.com) of-

beverage credit is provided.

DAY 2

After breakfast, attend a short familiarization

fers not only hosted tours for the general public but also

talk on your Hawaiian adventure. The rest of the day features

customized group travel opportunities for the academic and

a tour along the Windward Coast to the Polynesian Cultural

affinity sectors, including music and science Learning Journeys

Center’s authentic South Pacific villages, with craft demon-

options. All programs blend organized sightseeing with ample

strations, an all-you-can-eat buffet dinner and Polynesian

free time to absorb the laid-back island lifestyle of our 50th state.

dance revue.

The travel industry has seen a ramped-up demand for

DAY 3

Today’s sightseeing tour of Honolulu includes

Hawaii vacations in recent months, and many travel pros cite

Pearl Harbor’s USS Arizona Memorial, Punchbowl

the Islands as among their hottest-selling destinations at the

National Cemetery and the downtown area. The day ends

moment.

with dinner at the Hyatt’s Japengo restaurant followed by the

Following are day-by-day descriptions of what travelers can expect on two Perillo programs in Hawaii:

PERILLO TOURS’ “THE THREE ISLANDER” “The Three Islander,” a 10-day, 9-night vacation package, showcases the tropical splendors of Oahu, Maui and Kauai, with deluxe accommodations at Hyatt resorts. Priced from 40 December 2013

Society of Seven cocktail show.

DAY 4

After breakfast, you jet off to Maui, the “Valley

Island.” Sightseeing highlights on the way to the Hyatt Regency Maui include a visit to the Iao Valley to view the famous Iao Needle and a drive through the historic whaling town of Lahaina.

DAY 5

Enjoy a free day at leisure to enjoy the hotel’s

lush tropical grounds, the half-acre swimming pool and worldLeisureGroupTravel.com

Hawaii Tourism Authority/Joe Solem

The USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor is a Honolulu highlight.

Hawaii. The hotel has a four-acre swimming and snorkeling lagoon, three freshwater swimming pools and a dolphin encounter program, in addition to a beach, waterfalls, canal boats and tram rides.

PERILLO TOURS’ “HAWAII’S TRAVELING CLASSROOM 2014” Hawaii Tourism Authority/Tor Johnson

This 10-day, 9-night educational immersion program is organized for student groups by Perillo’s Learning Journeys division. During four days on the Big Island, the focus is on science, with hands-on lessons in geology, astronomy, botany and marine life. The Oahu portion of the trip provides close encounters with Hawaiian history and culture.

DAY 1

After arriving at Hilo International Airport, the

group is greeted with a traditional flower lei and then taken to famous Ka’anapali Beach. Cap your day with a sunset cock-

a Hilo hotel that has inside corridors; girls and boys stay on

tail cruise on a smooth-sailing catamaran, enjoying views of

separate floors, chaperones intermingled between. During the

West Maui, Molokai and Lanai while downing hot and cold

first-night pizza party/orientation briefing, the local tour director

pupus with mai tais, beer or soda. If it’s whale season (mid-De-

goes over hotel rules, safety and area shopping.

cember through mid-April), you might spot a humpback or two.

DAY 2 With an interpretive guide the group studies the

An exploration of Maui is highlighted by a tour

formation of the Hawaiian archipelago by Madam Pele, the

of 10,023-foot Mount Haleakala, a sleeping volcano that gave

goddess of the volcano, stopping first at Punalu’u Black Sand

birth to the island. Truly majestic, her crater is a mile deep and

Beach. Students will learn how the beach was formed by hot

stretches seven miles across. Tonight is the Drums of the Pa-

lava entering the ocean, exploding and later cooling to form

cific Luau, a journey through the islands of Polynesia with the

basalt black sand. There’s time to explore the volcanic reef and

dances and music of Samoa, Fiji, New Zealand, Tahiti and

see endangered hawksbill and green sea turtles basking in

Hawaii.

the sun.

DAY 6

DAY 7

Fly to Kauai, the “Garden Island,” where your

Next the group enters Volcanoes National Park and heads

home for the next three nights is the Grand Hyatt Kauai, one

to the Thurston Lava Tube, a cavern located in a forest of giant

of the finest resorts in Hawaii. Spend the afternoon relaxing at

tropical hapu’u ferns. Students use their flashlights to proceed

the beach or poolside or just exploring the lush manicured

deeper into the cave, where lava flowed thousands of years

grounds.

ago. Then the group embarks on a mile-long hike through bar-

DAY 8

Hang loose and enjoy a full day at leisure. But

ren fields of cinder on the park’s Devastation Trail, where the

if it’s excitement you want, consider an optional helicopter tour.

guide describes volcanic formations like Pele’s Tears, Pele’s

Visit Waimea Canyon, the “Grand Canyon of

Hair and Pumice. A lunch break at the park’s visitors center in-

the Pacific,” and Kauai Coffee’s Koloa Estate, the largest cof-

cludes a discussion of tectonic plates, the Ring of Fire and how

fee farm in the U.S., home to four million coffee trees.

Hawaii was formed through a “hot spot” in the Pacific Plate.

DAY 9

DAY 10

The tour ends after breakfast.

The group continues on to visit steam vents where hot moist air

A shorter Hawaii option is “The Two Islander,” a 7-day/6-

warms their faces and tour the Jagger Museum, where they

night program (from $2,359, plus air) that ends on Day 7 of

can watch seismographs record earthquakes right under their

“The Three Islander.” Either trip can be extended with a 3-

feet and view the lava lake in Halemaumau Crater as it erupts.

night stay at the Hilton Waikoloa Resort on the Big Island of

At night they visit eruption sites and view the red-hot lava.

LeisureGroupTravel.com

December 2013 41

ocean next to your hotel. After lunch, it’s off to Keauhou Bay for a snorkel cruise to historic Kealakekua Bay, where Hawaii was first discovered by Captain Cook in 1777. Students will explore lava tubes and see sea turtles, spinner dolphins, maybe even a humpback whale or two.

Hawaii Tourism Japan

DAY 5

A short flight from Kona Airport takes the group

to Honolulu on the island of Oahu. Soon after arrival you’ll head to Hawaii’s most famous landmark, Diamond Head, and climb to its 763-foot summit for a spectacular 360-degree view. After Students might encounter sea turtles on their snorkeling cruise.

the hike you’ll make a stop at the Waikiki Aquarium for a workshop on “What’s a Coral?” Students will learn about

DAY 3

At the Pacific Tsunami Museum, students

Hawaii’s delicate coral reef system and feed live corals found

attend a class and learn about tsunami awareness and the lat-

only in Hawaiian waters. At night the group is separated into

est forecasting tools used around the Pacific. Next is a hike

teams for a Wiki Wacky Scavenger Hunt aimed at instilling

through a tropical rain forest at Akaka Falls, one of Hawaii’s

knowledge of Waikiki’s history and culture.

highest waterfalls. After the hike, head to the lower slopes of

DAY 6

Enjoy a full-day adventure at the Polynesian

Mauna Kea for a vanilla bean farm experience. Students

Cultural Center, where you’ll tour the seven villages that rep-

learn about the orchids that produce vanilla beans and how

resent the islands of the South Pacific. Highlights include

they are cultivated, pollinated, harvested and dried. Then it’s

shows throughout the day, an IMAX movie and a Polynesian

time for a vanilla-infused lunch and the famous ice cream. The

feast that includes baked chicken, a turkey carving station,

day ends with a deli-style dinner and star-gazing atop Mauna

fried mahi mahi, Fijian curry, Samoan noodles, and salad and

Kea; after a 60-minute documentary film the group moves out-

fruit bar. The day concludes with the big show in the open-air

side to view the night sky through telescopes.

amphitheater.

DAY 4

In the morning enjoy a tidal pool walk along the

DAY 7

Hawaii’s history and culture takes center stage on an Eastern Shores island tour that starts around Diamond Head and continues to the Blowhole—where water can spout hundreds of feet into the air. At Pali Lookout the wind is so strong that you can almost fly.

Lunch is on the lawn of Iolani Palace, where you’ll tour the former residence of Hawaii’s kings and queens. Enjoy traditional entertainment and foods—and even try doing the hula—at an authentic Hawaiian luau that caps the day.

DAY 8

It’s time to hang loose

Hawaiian style. Sit back and relax while enjoying your days in paradise or sign up for adventures like snorkeling, parasailing and rain forest hiking.

DAY 9

Another free day to

relax, explore or purchase adventure activities. At our farewell beach barbecue we’ll announce the winner of the Wiki Wacky Scavenger Hunt, who will receive an authentic Hawaiian trophy.

DAY 10

42 December 2013

Departure Day. LGT LeisureGroupTravel.com

on location ❖ south

Time-honored attractions tantalize tour groups in this Tennessee River city

By Dave Bodle

Rock City Gardens’ swinging bridge

c i n Sce

CHATTANOOGA

T

ennessee’s fourth largest city has several unofficial nicknames,

primary beneficiaries of this forward thinking, the savvy group

including “River City” and “Gig City.” The latter reveals Chat-

travel planner is discovering the fruits of a Chattanooga tour.

tanooga’s assertion of having the fastest Internet service in the

Adjacent to the Georgia border and serviced by three in-

Western Hemisphere. However, travelers who have been to

terstate highways, Chattanooga is less than a three-hour drive

this southeastern Tennessee community probably agree that

from Atlanta, Birmingham, Huntsville, Nashville, Knoxville and

“Scenic City” is the proper nickname, and it is the official one.

Pigeon Forge. A prime location certainly makes Chattanooga

Surrounded by mountains and ridges along with lakes that

accessible. However, it’s a range of attractions, outstanding

are part of the Tennessee River, which runs through the city,

dining options, comfortable accommodations and a group-

Chattanooga is a natural photo opportunity. Over the years

friendly welcome that excites the tour and travel industry.

Tennessee Department of Tourist Development

public and private partnerships have committed to maintaining

It just makes sense to begin a Chattanooga visit at the

the scenic beauty with which

Tennessee Aquarium. Remark-

Chattanooga has been blessed.

ably, this cornerstone of the Wa-

An early success was the

terfront Plan has been rated

restoration of the 1891 Walnut

“Best Aquarium in America” for

Street Bridge, the oldest surviv-

three consecutive years,” based

ing Camelback truss bridge in

on IMPACTS 2013 independ-

the southeast. More recently the

ent, nationwide guest satisfac-

21st Century Waterfront Plan

tion survey of more than 30,000

has invested $120 million in re-

visitors to U.S. attractions. The

developing the city’s waterfront

main lure is certainly the diverse

and downtown area. Although residents may have been the LeisureGroupTravel.com

collection of 10,000+ animals Visitors to Rock City are rewarded with splendid mountain views.

from butterflies and reptiles to December 2013 43

on location: south ❖

Obtain Tennessee visitor guides and itineraries and contact groupfriendly suppliers directly at leisuregrouptravel.com/instant-info

ways through the boulders. Seven States Flag Court at Lover’s Leap offers a memorable view. All of Lookout Mountain’s attractions are just six miles from downtown Chattanooga.

The Tennessee Valley Railroad Museum is a rolling trip back in time. Refurbished equipment and outstanding faciliTennessee Department of Tourist Development

ties share the historical perspective of train travel. Daily rides, extended excursions on select days and annual events provide numerous opportunities to hear the conductor call those magical words, “All Aboard.”

To this point we’ve been up close to Chattanooga’s natural beauty from the rails, roads, paths and even a catamaran. It’s Chattanooga’s downtown riverfront is a magnet for special events.

time now to leisurely explore the scenic Tennessee River aboard the Southern Belle Riverboat. A relaxing, narrated af-

fish and birds. Yes, the penguins are adorable and the sharks

ternoon lunch cruise introduces the passenger to the sights

are toothy. Stay as long as you like, but there’s still more to see

along the river. Music, a prime rib dinner and an evening tour

close-by.

are the perfect ending to a perfect day.

Just a block from the aquarium is the IMAX 3D Theater,

The Bluff View Art District sits above the Tennessee River

where giant-screen films take the viewer from memorable un-

and provides spectacular views. The historic district is dedi-

derwater adventures to lands far away. Rounding out the

cated to the visual, culinary and horticultural arts. Master gar-

trifecta is a riverboat cruise. Board the catamaran River Gorge

deners tend to the district’s landscaping. Treats to please every

Explorer for a scenic cruise downstream to the Tennessee

palate are featured in three remarkable restaurants.

River Gorge. An aquarium naturalist accompanies you, point-

The visual arts take center stage at The River Gallery.

ing out the plants, animals and history of “Tennessee’s Grand

Nationally known artists exhibit regularly and working artists

Canyon.” Fall Color Cruises are exceptionally popular.

often provide instruction and demonstrations. The Smithsonian

"Chattanooga Choo Choo,” the 1941 song by Harry Warren (music) and Mack Gordon (words), was originally recorded

has recognized the River Gallery Sculpture Garden in its “Archive of American Gardens.”

as a big band/swing tune by Glenn Miller and his orchestra.

Located in a stunning architectural setting that parallels its

The song was featured in the 1941 movie Sun Valley Sere-

focus on art from the colonial period to the present day, the

nade. Today, the Choo Choo Terminal Station is home to a Historic Hotel of America, two group-friendly restaurants, shops and the Model Railroad Museum.

The scenic beauty of Chattanooga provides a full day of touring and memories. Your day begins at Lookout Mountain’s outstanding attractions.

Guided tours at Ruby Falls take you through a variety of cave and rock formations. The highlight for many is the 145foot underground waterfall illuminated by a spectacular LED light show. Be certain to take a sweater. It’s always 59 degrees inside the caves.

Referred to as “America’s Most Amazing Mile,” the Incline Railroad takes guests on an astonishing ride to the top of Lookout Mountain. Your coach will meet you at the Incline Top Station and take you to the Battles of Chattanooga Museum, part of the Chickamauga-Chattanooga National Military Park System and Point Park. The latter was the site of the “Battle Above the Clouds.”

Rock City Gardens provides natural splendor throughout the year. There’s always something blooming along the path44 December 2013

Ruby Falls is one of the big-time attractions on Lookout Mountain.

LeisureGroupTravel.com

Hunter Museum of American Art exhibits a wide collection. From well-known artists as Andy Warhol and Winslow Homer to lesser known contributors, virtually every medium is presented. The Hunter welcomes groups, and both adult and student/youth tour planners have program options. The museum’s scavenger hunt is very popular.

Another can’t-miss opportunity in the Bluff View Art District is the Houston Museum of Decorative Arts. Anna Safley-Houston is a story in herself – married and divorced nine times, shrewd businesswoman and bargainer and noted expert on all things Victorian. Her collection of glass and antique furniture was left to museum trustees for future generations. More than 15,000 pieces are on display for visitors.

Still looking for just one more reason to visit Chattanooga? Well, their way of saying, “thanks for coming” is special. Since 1917 Chattanooga Bakery has been making the legendary MoonPie. Bring your adult group for an overnight in Chattanooga and let the CVB know you’re coming. A complimentary MoonPie will be waiting for every guest along with a history page and welcome. LGT

Give your next tour group more memories per gallon. Bring them to a place that makes eyes go wide and mouths grin ear to ear. A destination with more shows. More shopping. More arts and crafts. More mountain views.

And more down-home cooking. A city that offers a wide range of fun for anyone at any age. Welcome to a detour from the ordinary.

PigeonForgeTours.com • 1-800-285-7557

on location ❖ west

A R I Z O N A’S

GRAND CANYON THERE’S MORE TO DO THAN MEETS THE EYE

By Sue Arko

G

roups traveling to the Grand

national park and features a large

Canyon can expect to see

bookstore. Indoor exhibits include

spectacular scenery, brilliant sun-

interpretive trip planners, The

rises and sunsets, scurrying wildlife

Canyon World in the new Science

and a multitude of vegetation. Grand

On a Sphere Theater®, and ex-

Canyon National Park, a World Her-

hibit cubes displaying items from

itage Site, is one of the most impres-

the park's natural and cultural his-

sive examples of erosion to be found

tory collections. There is also a

anywhere with massive vistas pro-

20-minute film, Grand Canyon: A

viding breathtaking views.

Journey of Wonder, in the Visitor

But there is more to do than

Center theater. It’s just a short

Enjoy an entertaining ride on the Grand Canyon Railway.

meets the eye. Options include hiking, live entertainment, wildlife experiences, delicious dining,

walk to Mather Point for an unforgettable view of the canyon.

a nostalgic railroad, flights and rafting. There is truly something

Active groups may consider hiking the canyon. Hiking along

for everyone at the Grand Canyon. Most services are found

the rim is a leisurely activity enjoyed by many. The Greenway

outside the South Rim.

Trail provides visitors of all physical capabilities a scenic walk.

Consider stopping at the IMAX Theatre and National Geo-

The first phase of the trail, linking the core Canyon Village area

graphic’s Visitors Center in the town of Tusayan before enter-

with the popular Mather viewpoint, was recently completed.

ing the canyon. View The Hidden Secrets, a 34-minute film that

The Greenway Trail is a work in progress and will be extended

penetrates the innermost depths of the Grand Canyon. Open-

to provide even greater access to the rim.

ing with the beginning of man’s fragile kinship with this twisting

Hikes below the rim, however, require preparation as they

277-mile phenomenon, the film focuses on the relentless quest

are more difficult. Day hikers often choose a portion of the

to conquer it.

Bright Angel or South Kaibab Trail. No permits are required.

The Grand Canyon Visitor Center, located on the South Rim

There is no better way to view the canyon than from the air.

by Mather Point, provides visitors with information about the

Numerous helicopter and airplane tours are available. Sail over

46 December 2013

LeisureGroupTravel.com

be found at the El Tovar Dining Room, located inside the park on the rim. Enjoy delicious food, friendly service and a rustic atmosphere. The Big E Steakhouse offers entertainment as well as great food.

Named after Elling “Big E” Halvorson, who came to the Grand Canyon in 1963 and whose leadership has been instrumental in the development of many services, the Big E has live entertainment, a giant video wall and music into the night. The Wild West Revue & Medicine Show is a highenergy, multi-media adventure that’s fun for all ages. The sassy Madame de Murska and her group of world-class performers dazzle with show-stopping songs, Bright Angel Lodge, with 40 lodge rooms, 49 cabins and a restaurant, provides easy access to popular hiking trails and visitor attractions at the South Rim of the Grand Canyon.

fantastic tap dancing, magic tricks and gor-

the canyon for a bird’s-eye view of the

back and relax on a smooth-water raft trip.

ever-changing

landscapes,

geous costumes.

Those with a full day to spare can kick

temples,

Departing on motorized, 15- to 22-passen-

buttes and gorges, in light and in shadow.

ger river rafts at the base of the Glen

And in the depths of it all, one mile below,

Canyon Dam in Page, Ariz., the journey

is the mighty Colorado River.

covers 200 million years in a 15.5-mile river

Papillion Helicopters is one of the old-

float through the most spectacular scenery

est and largest helicopter touring compa-

of the mighty Colorado River. This placid

nies in the world, offering a variety of tours

ribbon of water leads to historic Lee’s Ferry,

from the Grand Canyon Airport. Choose

where the rafting experience ends.

from helicopter air-only flights or landing

Just one hour south of the Grand

tours, airplane tours, combo tours, all-day

Canyon along Interstate 40 sits the Route

excursions or a stunning flight to the bot-

66 town of Williams, home to the Historic

tom of the Grand Canyon at the Havasupai

1908 Grand Canyon Railway and Depot,

Village. Soar above the North Rim and see

including steam locomotive display, gift

the Dragon Corridor.

shop and a Wild West show. Groups can

Grand Canyon Airlines has been flying

board the train to the Grand Canyon and

visitors over the canyon since 1927. View

relive the romance of the Old West aboard

the South and North Rims on-air only flights

five distinct classes of service, including re-

or visit Monument Valley and Rainbow

stored 1923 Harriman coach cars.

Bridge on combination all-day excursions.

Also in Williams, Bearizona Drive-

Consider experiencing the national

Thru Wildlife Park is another group-

park and Kaibab National Forest aboard

friendly experience. From the comfort and

an open-air, four-wheel-drive vehicle while

safety of the motorcoach, drive through the

learning about the early settlers, the cow-

park for up-close-and-personal encoun-

boys, native people and wildlife. Pink Jeep

ters with many different animals, from ma-

Tours Grand Canyon and Grand Canyon

jestic bison and nimble bighorn sheep to

Jeep Tours both offer tours to the best

stealthy wolves and adorable bear cubs,

viewpoints at the South Rim, with guides

all in a natural environment.

providing facts about the history, geology, flora and fauna of the area.

After the sun goes down, several dining options are available. Fine dining can LeisureGroupTravel.com

So, next time a trip to the Grand Canyon is on the horizon, consider adding an extra night to fully experience all the area has to offer. LGT December 2013 47

on location: midwest ❖

Obtain Indiana visitor guides and itineraries and contact groupfriendly suppliers directly at leisuregrouptravel.com/instant-info

’ve always been fascinated by motorhomes—those plush

I

lated industry that also has roots in the Elkhart area.) Many of

condos on wheels equipped with everything from swivel

the workers are Amish, some of whom commute to the factory

armchairs to the kitchen sink. A morning of touring an RV

by bike or buggy.

factory and visiting the only shrine to the RV—hopping into

It all started in the 1930s when Wilbur Schult’s trailer com-

vehicles old and brand new—really got me in the mood for a

pany became the largest in the industry, attracting suppliers and

comfy road trip across America.

other manufacturers. After World War II, things really began to

Tour planners know Indiana’s Elkhart County as Amish

boom and trade magazines were calling Elkhart the

Country, a peaceful land of farms, craft shops, tempting restau-

“Trailer Capital of the World.” At the indus-

rants and bakeries, and horse buggies clattering down

try’s peak in the mid-1960s, greater

country roads. On my recent trip to Amish County, in addition to

Elkhart accounted for more than

RV Capital of the World Factory tours shine the headlights on RV manufacturing, an economic mainstay of Northern Indiana’s Elkhart County

By Randy Mink filling up on fried chicken and cinnamon rolls, I wanted to explore the area’s RV industry, which relies on Amish craftsmanship for its world-class products.

The greater Elkhart area justifiably claims the title “RV Capital of the World,” as a majority of those pop-up campers, travel trailers and sleek motorhomes you see cruising down the highway are made within a 30-mile radius of Elkhart, a city of 53,000. Jayco, Newmar, Dutchman and Gulfstream are just

300 RV

some of the better known manufacturers. There are some 100

brands. Elkhart’s lo-

plants operated by 30-40 manufacturers representing about 100

cation on Interstate 80/90 and

brands, according to Al Hesselbart, historian at Elkhart’s RV/MH

proximity to Detroit’s automotive

Hall of Fame and Museum, a prime tourist attraction and re-

companies were prime factors in the

search facility. (MH stands for “manufactured housing,” a re-

RV industry’s growth in Northern Indiana.

Two-thirds of the area’s RV manufacturers (mostly mom-and-pop) were lost during the 1970s, a time of rising fuel costs and high interest rates. The most recent recession put a damper on RVing and Elkhart’s economy, but it has bounced backed nicely since the high unemployment of a few years ago. Elkhart County last year ranked No. 1 in the nation in job growth.

I got a close-up look at the manufacturing process during a tour that took our group right onto the factory floor of Nexus

Visitors can step aboard the vehicles in Nexus’ showroom.

48 December 2013

RV, a thriving Elkhart company that started up in 2010. Shown LeisureGroupTravel.com

around by perky sales associate Karen Mason, we looked over the shoulders of welders and electricians and saw stacks of boards, fiberglass panels and other building materials that go into building a steel-frame home on a Ford truck chassis. The cherry and maple cabinet doors and drawers are supplied by Middlebury Hardware, an Amish business.

Nexus customizes each vehicle to suit the buyer’s taste and

Nexus RV’s spacious Viper offers every imaginable amenity.

is the only local manufacturer that sells directly to the consumer,

tors center, a renovated 1880s farmhouse located adjacent to

bypassing the middleman. People come to the plant from all

the general offices, has Jayco photos and memorabilia, Jayco

over the country, and in the huge showroom we

logo merchandise for sale and a display of new products. Also

saw some potential buyers kicking the tires

popular with tour groups is Newmar’s plant in Nappanee, where

and checking out the upholstery. The

80 percent of the workforce is Amish.

highlight for tour members was

For a journey through the history of RVing, visit the spacious

stepping onboard the finished

RV/MH Hall of Fame and follow the blacktop path lined with

Class B+ and Class C

antique vehicles, including the oldest known, non-tent trailer in existence. Attached to a Model T Ford, the 1913 travel trailer was custom-built for a Cal Tech professor. You’ll also see classic, aerodynamic Airstream trailers, a 1967 Winnebago motorhome and a Shasta 15-footer that’s typical of the early ’50s “canned ham”-style trailers. The chauffer-driven 1931 Chevrolet Housecar owned by Mae West—used as a lounge car, not a camper—transported the actress between her home and Paramount Studios. Hidden under the couch in one 1936 vehicle is a bathtub. Visitors are welcome to go inside

Travel in style in Nexus RV’s Phantom, a sleek Class C motorhome.

some of the vehicles. Accenting the displays are fake vegetation and camping gear from days gone by, while colorful banners of iconic sights like Mount Rushmore, the Grand Canyon and California’s coast festoon the cavernous main room.

In another hall, visitors enjoy climbing aboard the most current models. The second-level Hall of Fame honors nearly 400 notables in the RV industry.

For an orientation to the history of RVing, catch the seven-minute video in the

models, motorized vehicles that are smaller

theater. Also worth a look

than full-size Class A’s. From the king-size bed and

is the photo exhibit Wheel

dinette that converts into a sleeper to a kitchen complete with

People, which tells the sto-

stainless steel appliances and granite-like countertops, these

ries of those who live in

rolling palaces on wheels captured our imagination. The push-

trailers, mobile homes and

button awnings and slideouts (which extend the walls out) were

manufactured housing.

really neat, too. And priced from the high $50,000’s, these vehi-

For complete informa-

cles are not much more than many cars and SUVs, we realized.

tion on Northern Indiana

Jayco, Inc., the largest privately held RV manufacturer, offers

Amish Country, go to the

tours of its towable manufacturing facilities in Middlebury; visi-

Elkhart County CVB web-

tors watch a movie and receive headsets for the tour. The visi-

site, amishcountry.org. LGT

LeisureGroupTravel.com

December 2013 49

On Marketing

❖ dave bodle

What I’ve Learned This Year IT WOULD BE EASY to close out the

Tourism Marketing’s online director,

they will range from 58-68, closing in

year by simply recapping observations

and Jeff Gayduk, our publisher. They

on retirement and free to travel. Sure,

from 2013 columns. This December,

set me up with Pinterest, a great way to

but that’s almost a quarter of a century

though, I’m going to comment on three

connect visually with our readers, and

before we have to deal with them.

things I’ve learned this past year. I want

Skype, a must-have for any business.

Right? Here’s the realistic picture:

to challenge you to do the same.

It was easier than I envisioned. I imme-

Today the Xers are 38-48 and you’re

Ready?

diately saw how they both have a

dealing with them every day. They may

I’ve learned that social media is

positive impact on any business.

be planning the senior class trip or

here to stay. For the long-term health

The Pinterest advantage is obvious.

putting together a young adults mission-

of your business, it must be embraced.

We are a visual people. You have

ary tour. The tour & travel industry must

I did two columns this past year that

pictures of your friends and family

understand Generation X long before

addressed digital marketing. The latter

beside their cell phone number. Sharing

we can expect them on a tour.

dealt specifically with social media.

images of last year’s holiday tours

Although our company is in the fore-

with your Pinterest followers sure helps

critical part of your marketing mix.

front of online marketing, it was a tough

fill the coaches for this year’s trips.

There’s nothing I like better than listen-

subject for an old print guy to tackle.

Encourage your customers to follow

ing to tour professionals talk about

However, it just made sense to get

you on Pinterest at every opportunity

what’s working and, of course, what’s

involved. Once I learned social media

and post, post and post some more.

not. Is it a scientific path to understand-

wasn’t going anywhere, it was neces-

Skype is a great business-to-business

ing the industry? Probably not, but

sary to learn how some of it worked.

video conferencing tool. To this day I

those conversations have tremendous

I turned to Lance Harrell, Premier

am still a believer that tour & travel is

value in providing insight. Countless

more high-touch than hi-tech. Skype

times I’ve heard from a tour planner

bridges that divide. It’s like sitting

that a trip they never expected to

across the table at a marketplace, but

happen sold out and had a waiting list.

you’ve never left your office. Nothing

Many readily admit there’s just no way

beats face-to-face meetings. Both

of telling what’s going to work. The

these new media are available on

astute operator is presenting an eclectic

your desktop, laptop, iPad and cell

mix of tour options to his customers.

phone. And they’re free to download

The sharp destination is Cooking Up

and use!

Irresistible Itineraries. (Shameless plug

Looking ahead to our FEBRUARY ISSUE

• Bank Travel • Outlet & Specialty Shopping • Casinos • Oklahoma • Texas • New Mexico • Missouri • Hawaii • Virginia • Connecticut • Delaware • South Carolina

I’ve learned that certain segments

I’ve learned that product is a

for the white paper online at http://group-

of group travel better get in step with

university.com/downloads/cooking-up-

Generation X. In researching a column

irresistible-itineraries/)

on how to sell seniors, I came across

As my dad told a young me, “Enjoy

information on Generation X, the 51

your youth because the older you

million born from 1965-1976. It was

get the dumber you’ll get.” At the time

staggering. They may be the best edu-

I believed he had finally appreciated

cated, but they have the lowest voter

my intelligence. As I grew older and

turnout. They are frequently labeled “the

realized how little I really know, I recog-

lost generation.” Generation Xers were

nized what he meant. Keep learning,

See our page-flip edition & past issues at

quoted by Newsweek as “the genera-

my friends.

LeisureGroupTravel.com

tion that dropped out without ever

We can help showcase your business to groups. Call us 630.794.0696 or advertising@ptmgroups.com

50 December 2013

turning on the news or tuning in to the social issues around them.” In 20 years

Contact Dave at 843-997-2880 or email dave@ptmgroups.com.

LeisureGroupTravel.com