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CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. – March 17, 2023 – Innovation is the root of technology and how it makes our lives easier. When it comes to travel, there are countless new ways that companies are making the experiences more seamless, more enjoyable, and less stressful. “What propels Cruise Planners forward as a trailblazer in the travel industry is our award-winning technology,” said Michelle Fee, CEO and Founder of Cruise Planners. “We invest heavily into developing proprietary technology tools that are the driving force for our marketing programs and tools that help our advisors elevate their business.” With 2023 proclaimed as being the “Year of Travel,” here are some travel technology trends we are keeping our eyes on. Here are the top 4 tech trends for travel advisors to pay attention to in 2023: 🔮 Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven Solutions: AI-powered technologies like chatbots and virtual assistants are becoming increasingly popular in the travel industry. These solutions are being used to help customers make travel decisions, book flights, and more. While AI will allow customers and advisors to work together to narrow down destination options, it will never replace the “human touch” of an advisor offering personal recommendations for tours, restaurants, hotels, and more. ⚡ LivePlanner: With the rise of online meeting/webinar services, consumers are more comfortable with online presentations from the comfort of their homes. LivePlanner is a new, patent-pending, interactive travel planning and presenting tool from Cruise Planners that allows travel advisors to share information about cruise lines, tour companies, all-inclusive resorts, and activities with images, videos, itineraries, and more to educate and make recommendations that will help plan the perfect vacation for their clients. 👩‍💻 Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR): AR and VR technologies are being used to create immersive experiences for travelers. It can be used to simulate a variety of travel experiences, from exploring a breathtaking tropical beach to taking a close-up look at a famous architectural landmark. VR technology is also used to create immersive experiences for travelers, from virtual tours of cities to interactive activities such as zip-lining through a forest or scuba diving in an exotic location. VR can also be used to create an immersive educational experience for travelers, allowing them to learn about the history, culture, and natural wonders of a destination. This technology can be used in a variety of ways to enhance the travel experience and provide travelers with an unforgettable journey. 📱 Mobile Applications for Travel Advisors: Mobile applications are becoming increasingly popular in the travel industry. From booking flights to checking in at airports, customers are using mobile applications to make their travel experience more efficient and convenient. Cruise Planners' award-winning Cruise Planners app allows clients to keep all their travel updates and reminders in one space. With CP Maxx mobile, clients can book activities, integrate with Yelp for recommendations while traveling, and keep important documents and schedules in one place. “We never rest on our laurels when it comes to technology,” said Brian Shultz, CIO of Cruise Planners. “We are constantly evolving and taking into consideration the needs of our advisors and how we can make them more efficient—it’s what drives our innovation.” With all these innovations geared toward helping travelers plan and book vacations with ease, Cruise Planners will continue to harness emerging technologies to help their network of expert advisors be successful.

Have you been to the heart of the Amazon River? Join CP Travel Ambassador Karen Chin as she heads to Peru and the exotic lushness of the Amazon.

Japan is a popular destination in Asia and we're just a few months away from the famed cherry blossom season. Join CP Travel Ambassador Juan Velazquez as he takes us to the best sites of Tokyo and Kyoto. What specific cities and /or countries did you visit? Japan: Tokyo/Kyoto What was your favorite memory? My son and I had this father son adventure planned and then postponed and canceled and rebooked due to the Pandemic. Hence, it was then, as we boarded the taxi straight out of the international terminal at Haneda; watching his face fill with emotion and excitement, I knew this was going to be a life changing experience. Top excursions and landmarks/sites to visit: Mt. Fuji, Akihabara (Electric Town), Shibuya Crossing, Obadia (Tokyo Bay) featuring the Statue of Liberty & Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Tower and Tokyo Skytree, and all the temples and shrines especially Sensi-Jo. Standout restaurants or foodie must-haves? If you love beef, sushi, ramen, and beer (and Sakí) then you came to the right country. My gosh, it was fun exploring the different street vendors and alleyway dives. Every turn was another foodie's culinary exploration. How would you describe the people and culture of this destination? Any interesting cultural lessons? Japan has a prideful culture with a sophisticated characteristic for fine details and traditions. During the New Year's Eve celebration, we traveled to one of the most popular temples and gathered with hundreds of other locals to wait on the ceremonial "Ringing of the Bell". The local people took us in and allowed us to celebrate in their customs. We danced, and ate squid, and drank until it was time to say goodbye. But truly their is no real way to say good bye in Japanese. They simply said “arigatou gozaimasu“ (thank you with extreme gratitude). What is something people would be surprised to learn about this destination? Japan is known for their traditions that date back centuries. They are also known for their eccentric style, especially with the youth. However, during the Christmas and New Year Holidays, people line up for blocks and blocks to order a holiday meal from KFC (yup, Kentucky Fried Chicken). I'm not joking. Top 5 Tips and recommendations for this trip: A Double Bed typically means a Twin Bed. The Subway (bullet train) is your friend and so simple to use and navigate through. Don't tip, it's an insult. The Japanese are grateful for your business and it is their pleasure to make sure you have a fulfilling experience. Visit the Tokyo Skytree at night and the Tokyo Tower during the day. You'll get a better perspective of what the city looks like from two vantage points at different times of the day. Travel to Kyoto on the Bullet Train and stay overnight. Kyoto can be experienced in one day. However if you love Kobe Beef you might want to add an extra day and visit the famous town of Kobe followed by a trip to Hiroshima. Did you travel via cruise ship? If so, please describe the experience and some of the standout features that you ere excited about. No, we did not take a cruise. Nonetheless, the cruise port is less than 10 miles from Tokyo's main attractions and sites. What makes this destination a must-see in your opinion? Japan should be on everyone's bucket list. The Japanese people have a rich history with America. Most of us are not familiar with our ties to the Japanese and their contributions to the American Railway system. And, the history shared in Hawaii. Japan has a balance of the old and the new mixed in a megalopolis like Tokyo and sweet tender gowns along the ridge and foot of Mount Fuji. It is by far the most extraordinary place you will ever visit. Additional thoughts and insights? Pro Tip: Book business class and above, if possible. On the flights you'll receive the typical onboarding for the upgrade but you'll also receive slippers/blankets/pillows/and more... To book your next trip to Japan and check out the cherry blossoms or the bustling streets of Tokyo, contact a Cruise Planners advisor near you.

CORAL SPRINGS, Fla. Feb.14- Michael Consoli & Associates continued their reign as the top producers in the Cruise Planners network of travel agent franchises, ending 2022 with over $24 million in total sales. These numbers are especially impressive considering Michael’s team consists of just two associates and an office manager. Along with incredible sales numbers that continue to grow every year, Consoli has won numerous awards that include:

Retirement is an exciting time that marks the beginning of a new phase in life. After years of hard work, you can finally take a well-deserved break and enjoy the fruits of your labor. Why not travel?

Calling all Disney fans!! It's the happiest place on earth.. at sea! CP Travel Ambassador Angeletha Long had an epic adventure with her family aboard the Disney Dream and gives us the lowdown on everything we need to know!