VR videos helping agents close sales

A growing number of travel advisers are reporting that virtual reality (VR) is helping them close sales more often and faster, and several said they’re considering ways to put the technology in their clients’ hands with branded headsets to make it more accessible.

“You know, you can talk up a resort, you can talk up a destination, but letting them experience it for themselves like they’re really there gets them very excited about trips,” said Michele Botnick, owner of Lucky N Love Travel in Roswell, N.M.

Botnick is among the agents using a product developed by Virtual Honeymoon, a company owned by former agent Robin Hawkey, who created a set of interactive, online quizzes to help clients narrow their preferred destinations.

The service now offers quizzes for honeymoons, vacations, anniversary trips and weddings (including venue matching). Agents who sign up for the service also get access to VR content for which Hawkey partners with a Canadian company, Explor VR.

A number of Hawkey’s agent clients, including Botnick, have begun bringing VR headsets powered by smartphones to bridal shows. They have prospective clients take Virtual Honeymoon’s quiz, which takes into account personal preferences and budgets to determine two recommended destinations. They then showcase one or both destinations on the VR headset.

“It literally is doubling their sales,” Hawkey said. “They are closing sales quicker, and it gets the clients really excited.”

Hawkey has seen agents’ use of VR increase in the past year or so, a trend she attributed to the increasing quality and affordability of headsets.

VR has existed in some form for decades, but the market for headsets designed for consumer use has exploded in recent years. At first, headsets required expensive computers to run, but versions that utilize a smartphone have become very common.

Some cost less than $20, among them the Google Cardboard, a smartphone-powered headset. Sets that run off smartphones range in price and quality.

Newer entrants even run as standalone systems, not requiring a smartphone. Among those is the Oculus Go (starting at $200). Higher-end headsets requiring the use of a computer cost hundreds of dollars for the headset alone.

Companies in the retail travel space have been experimenting with VR in recent years. For example, Virtuoso several years ago beta-tested the use of high-end headsets in member agencies. The consortium found that interest varied greatly among members, and VR efforts are now member-driven.

One of those interested members is Direct Travel. Vicky DiMichele, digital marketing manager of leisure at the agency is Willoughby, Ohio, said it plans to introduce VR this year using Oculus Go headsets.

vr headsets

Guests viewing content from Virtual Honeymoon at a bridal show.

The idea is to place headsets in offices with walk-in leisure business. She would showcase videos from suppliers but is also considering creating her own VR content, especially from familiarization or adviser-incentive trips. That could also be useful for agents, DiMichele said.

Largay Travel of Waterbury, Conn., another Virtuoso agency, was an early tester of using high-end headsets in agencies, but Scott Largay, director of marketing, said the agency ran into issues with content development.

The agency was attempting to create its own content and app, but Largay said he found that limits to the amount and quality of content “was very restrictive to what we were looking to do.”

Companies producing VR content weren’t able to produce the caliber of content Largay wanted, he said, and those that could were “astronomically priced.”

“Virtual reality will be a big part of the travel industry moving forward, and I will be there with my headset on when it happens,” he said. “But it’s just not right now.”

While some have taken a step back from VR, Virtual Honeymoon’s Hawkey is doubling down on the technology and encouraging resorts to start filming weddings with it.

She works with several VR companies, and each has agreed to record at least one complimentary mock wedding as long as the resort hosts the production (and, of course, arranges the event). Hawkey said she has several resorts interested and that she believes they will see a direct impact on bookings if agents showcase weddings virtually.

She said other resorts would likely follow suit and pay to have their own mock weddings recorded in VR.

“The reason that we’re doing that is to prove how powerful viewing VR weddings really is and to show how that venue is going to double, if not triple, their weddings by doing something as powerful as a virtual wedding,” she said. “Because then you can literally drop the couple into the wedding without being there.”

It’s not a cheap prospect. In addition to the mock wedding, VR videos feature other aspects of the property to give viewers a better feel for what they will experience. Hawkey estimated that recording one property costs between $7,500 and $10,000, a price driven not only by the effort to videotape at a resort but also the costs of expensive professional equipment and the editing process.

The expense involved in VR is what led Camille Sanders, owner of Chic Romance Travel in Fresno, Calif., to partner with Virtual Honeymoon to offer VR to her clients instead of trying to create her own program and content.

“It’s very expensive to produce,” she said. “It definitely is better to partner with somebody.”

Like Lucky N Love’s Botnick, Sanders brings headsets to bridal shows.

“I feel it really sets me aside differently than anything out there, especially with other local agencies,” Sanders said. “It’s something different to offer.”

Miki Taylor, founder and CEO of Taylor & Co. Travel in Auburn, Ala., lives in a college town and brings the headsets to many local events. She said VR has gone over very well with clients, especially students, for whom Taylor plans many spring break trips.

“If I had a storefront, I’d have [headsets] on every station,” Taylor said. “Every agent would have them, and they would use them to sell. It sells itself.”

Both Sanders and Botnick are also considering purchasing branded headsets that are inexpensive, foldable and easily mailable to clients around the country, who can use their smartphones to view VR content.

Hawkey said VR is a powerful technology for agents to have in their arsenal.

“I just feel it in my gut,” she said. “If agents don’t get on with the technology, they’re going to be the next ones out of business.”

 

Paradise is called Jamaica, the island of All Right!

Rising out of the Caribbean Sea is an island full of life, music, and spice, is Jamaica!
Landscape of rich tropical vegetation, white sandy beaches, and turquoise waters is a kaleidoscope of amazing color. Its people are every bit as vibrant as the landscape and their music is every bit as calming as the ocean’s waves.
Jamaica is the kind of place you can’t wait to get to and never want to leave. It is truly the quintessential island escape you only thought existed in the movies. Featuring an abundance of the Caribbean’s most spectacular resorts paired with thrilling adventures and laid-back relaxation Jamaica truly has something for everyone. For this reason, Jamaica is an ideal location for honeymooners and for those planning a destination wedding. Secrets St. James
No matter whether it is a romance-filled honeymoon or a fun-filled destination wedding one is seeking, they can expect to find the ideal resort matched perfectly with their personality and desired level of action or relaxation. Each resort is unique in design and individualized for the specific traveler they are attracting. From family friendly to couples only, from quiet and relaxed to energetic and active… on the island of Jamaica variety is the spice of life!
The opportunities for romance are at every turn… from couples’ massages to champagne toasts at sunset. From catamaran cruises to snorkeling tours. From hiking up Dunn’s River Falls to diving into Jamaica’s Blue Lagoon. However you choose to spend your time in Jamaica you can be assured that it will be nothing short of incredible. jamaica
In the event that you’re still just not sure if Jamaica is right for you, allow me the opportunity to paint you a picture… It won’t take you long to realize what your time in Jamaica is going to be like. In fact, you’ll get a pretty good idea as soon as you load into the van taking you from the airport to your resort. With the van bumping and swaying along as your driver cruises up and down the twisty turny 2-lane roads with the Reggae music blasting you’ll start to understand the Jamaicans care free no worries attitude.
Once you arrive at your resort things will start to slow down a little… The stresses of traveling will start to fade away, the tension in your neck and shoulders will start to relax, and you’ll even realize that your body has begun to sway to the sounds of the music. You’ll stop and stare, trying to take it all in as you stand looking out at the gorgeous lagoon style pool with the breathtakingly beautiful Caribbean Sea in the background.

There will be people all around you, the Reggae band will be playing, but the only thing you’ll be able to hear is Bob Marley singing over and over again in your head, “Don’t worry ‘bout a thing, ‘cause every little thing gonna be alright”.

For more information on Jamaica, contact Kevin Lowe of Better Days Travel

If you don’t know where to go on your next getaway, take our fun quiz and find your top destination match

Virtual Vacation

Saint Lucia will inspire you!

Saint Lucia has earned the slogan of, “Let Her Inspire you” and it is easy to see why!

Saint Lucia

With resorts ranging from family friendly properties with kids’ and teens’ clubs, water slides, petting zoos, paint ball, and trampolines; to boutique properties with little cottages and nearly private beaches; to mega resort properties; to three-sided-open air sanctuaries formed on the side of a mountain for a romantic getaway, Saint Lucia offers it all.

jade mountain

When asked, “What can I do in Saint Lucia?” I have to respond with, “it is easier to advised what you cannot do in Saint Lucia!” You cannot find sky scrapers. You won’t find a desert terrain. But truly, many activities abound in this lush and beautiful paradise! You will understand why Saint Lucia is referred to as the Hawaii of the Caribbean!

Land adventures can be experienced through ziplining, hiking, biking, climbing, jungle swing, aerial tram, bird watching, dune buggies, Segway tours, and even a volcano experience with hot springs! Water adventures include snorkeling, scuba, beaches in various colors, stand up paddle boarding, kayaking, canoeing, sailing, kite surfing, speed boating, catamaran cruises, whale watching, and fantastic deep see fishing! While you will not be short on activities in Saint Lucia, should you want to venture out, you can even take a trip over to the neighboring island of Martinique!

Hike Saint Lucia

I describe Saint Lucia as something for everyone. The clearness and blues of the water welcome you from every direction. The topography offers mountainous Pitons, Rainforest, areas known for calm waters, and areas known for waves and kite surfing! The temperature stays between 75 degrees and 90 degrees Fahrenheit year-round. The English language is spoken fluently by most on the island. The currency is Eastern Caribbean, but they will commonly accept the US Dollar when you are shopping or tipping. And YES, the people are welcoming, and the tap water is safe to drink!

If interested in finding out more about Saint Lucia, feel free to reach out directly to TravelAgentSuz

If  you don’t know where to go on your next romantic getaway, take our virtual quiz and find your top two matches here:

Virtual Honeymoon

Written by TravelAgentSuz

Romantic Aruba

That’s One Happy Island, Get Happy In Aruba!

If you could take a moment and imagine perfection.

Imagine powder white sands, crystal clear waters, culinary delights sure to excite even the most picky of foodies, and pure luxury available a stone’s throw away.

Welcome to Aruba, this small island only a quick boat ride away from the coastline of Venezuela offers everything you would want for the setting of your next romantic destination. So let’s explore, Aruba. It really is one happy island.Aruba beach

Location, Location, Location:
Aruba is one of the most Southernmost islands in the Caribbean and is apart of what is known as the ABC Islands (Aruba, Curacao, and Bonaire). Together these islands make up the Dutch Caribbean.
The good news for visitors of Aruba, is due to its location, the island enjoys an arid climate with pleasant weather enjoyable year round. Also due to its location in the extreme Southern Caribbean, the likelihood of hurricanes or bad weather ruining your vacation as the island is located outside the commonly known “hurricane belt” are low.

The Island
Visitors looking for a different experience from the lush tropical vegetation present on other Caribbean islands will be at home in Aruba. You will find on the west and south coasts, sandy, crystal beaches with calm waves (my favorite is Baby Beach which is calm, warm, and clear to the bottom), hotels to fit any budget, and shopping, ranging from super luxury to island chic and activities as calm or heart pumping as your heart desires.

On the north and east coasts, you will find dryer conditions and may even spot some cactus and other trees more likely to be seen in the desert than a tropical island. The arid environment is the perfect place to have amazing adventures such as ATVing and dune buggy rides. Home to Alto Vista chapel, it is a great historical site while there remember to get your refreshing coconut water sipped straight from a coconut.

Island of Aruba

Having Fun:
Although it is no muss no fuss to go to an all inclusive resort, I challenge you to resist the urge in Aruba. This island is known as a foodie paradise with restaurants lined up and down the main streets of Oranjestad, the island’s capital. Why stay at the resort when you can explore the downtown and enjoy all of amazing food that is offered.

If food doesn’t excite you how about shopping? Whether it is luxury brands or flea markets there are shopping opportunities available for shopaholics with any budget in the downtown area. Taking a stroll through Renaissance Mall, or in the downtown area is the perfect way to spend a low key afternoon.

Aruba is an excellent location to plan your romantic vacation. Aruba will check all your boxes for food, excitement, beach, and adventure.

When your ready to plan your getaway to Aruba, contact Tammy at Million Miles Travel

Don’t know where to go on your Romantic Getaway? Take the quiz below, find your Destination match:

Virtual Honeymoon

Xcaret Resort

We attended the Love Mexico conference last week which was hosted by Xcaret Resort in Cancun, Riviera Maya, Mexico.
Xcaret combines Mayan history, art, and an ecosystem of jungles, caves & rivers that is just perfect for a destination wedding, honeymoon or a romantic getaway.Xcaret Resort

The resort grounds are beautiful and ready for some romantic exploration. The suites are very large, and offer all the amenities you would expect in a luxury resort. Food options are endless and during our stay we were not disappointed.
The service is impeccable, and Raul & Daniel at the lobby bar deserve a big shout out!  Xcaret ResortEach suite has a balcony or terrace that includes a hammock (or two) for enjoying the views and relaxing. The suites are decorated based on the key elements of the Mayan culture; spiral, earth, wind, water & fire.

Take your romantic getaway, destination wedding or honeymoon for a test drive in virtual reality

Thank you to our Mexico Specialist, Michele Botnick of Lucky n Love Travel for blogging on their most recent trip to Hotel Xcaret in Riviera Maya, Mexico.

For more information of this property and destination, please reach out directly:
michele@luckynlovetravel.com

Start Planning Your Hotel Xcaret Getaway

Is Virtual Reality the next big travel trend?

Virtual Reality Travel

“Transport clients into the trip of the dreams and close the sale!”

We here at Virtual Honeymoon know that Virtual Reality (VR) is the next big travel trend!
Virtual Reality used in the travel industry has the capacity to literally transform the way travel agents market destinations across the globe.

Imagine, Virtual Reality transporting your clients virtually to any destination, where they can experience the sights, sounds, everywhere they look is a different scene, like standing in the middle of a live video in the destination!

We have already seen travel agents doubling their bookings that are using Virtual Reality to close the sales.

While we were speaking at a past travel event to room full of travel agents, we explained Virtual Reality this way;
remember years ago when we only had traditional travel agents and their was no internet based travel sites, so clients had to come meet with a travel agent to help them book their travel?
Well, those same agents that didn’t get online when the internet took over, like expedia, orbitz, etc… they lost bookings and clients to the internet!
They couldn’t think outside the box and refused to believe that they would lose business to the internet, those same closed minded agents are now out of business!!

From internet travel sites to Virtual Reality, its going to be a similar scenario!
The travel agents that don’t embrace virtual reality technology and let their clients pre-experience a destination their interested in, are going to be left behind!
Sure they may stay in business with their older clientele,  but they are not going to grow their business and capture those next generation of travelers that want to be involved in planning their travel.

Virtual Reality is perfect for the adventure traveler, it gets them excited to see and feel what it looks like to say, zipline through jungle while hearing sounds of waterfalls,
like wise for those couples that can’t afford to travel to the destination ahead of time to plan their wedding and of course those honeymooners that have no idea where to go.

Virtualhoneymoon.com was based on VR technology, our software uses algorithm to search & match destinations,  combining 360*Virtual Reality technology, we are revolutionizing the way SMART AGENTS sell travel!

 

 

 

Virtual Destination Wedding wins Trendsetter of the year award 2018

We are excited to announce Virtual Honeymoon’s sister site, Virtual Destination Wedding won Trendsetter of the year 2018 award for best targeted marketing idea!

2018 trendsetter of year

Virtual Honeymoon won this honor for Trendsetter of year in 2016 for best targeted marketing idea as well!

While Virtual Honeymoon software runs both virtual matching sites, Virtual Destination Wedding goes a step further in not only matching a couples destination but helps plan their wedding, this helps wedding planners and destination wedding specialists work smarter!

Virtual Destination Wedding story-

Virtual Destination Wedding won 2018 trendsetter award

What does Trendsetter awards mean? Each year, the TravelAge West Trendsetter Awards recognize travel agency leaders who make an impact on the industry and the community. Two finalists in each category are invited to and honored at the WAVE Awards as guests of their sponsor.

Entries are reviewed and voted on by the sponsors and editorial staff of TravelAge West. Furthermore, suppliers who sponsor the Trendsetter Awards do so not just for publicity – they support the travel agent community and wish to honor those who are making significant strides in the industry.

See the Trendsetter winners in all categories by checking out the July issue of Travelage West Magazine honoring all the recipients held at The Ritz Carlton in Marina Del Ray, California
A huge thank you goes out to Travelage West for our award and Celebrity Cruise line for honoring us with a Europe Cruise, we are so excited!

Virtual Destination Wedding is honored to work with over 200 Destination Wedding Specialists in US and Canada!
If your a travel agent specializing in romance travel or wedding planner, find out how you can work smarter @
VirtualDestinationWedding.com

“This interactive tool saves time, gets your clients excited and ready to book!”

Destination Wedding Specialists & Wedding Planners can try our demo-site below:

Virtual Destination Wedding- Wedding Planners

Virtual Destination Wedding- Wedding Planners

 

Virtual Honeymoon is excited to announce the launch of Virtual Vacationing

We are excited to announce the recent launch of Virtual Honeymoon’s newest addition – Virtual Vacationing – on April 10 at the Travel Agent Forum in Las Vegas,
along side their VR partner ExplorVR, Virtual Vacationing was launched with some 700+ travel agents attending!

virtual vacationing

Travel agents specializing in Vacations

While Virtual Vacationing’s main concept is interactive destination matching for Vacations, the new site does not focus on romance as the other two sites do,
Virtual Honeymoon and Virtual Destination Wedding.

“We realize that not all getaways are about romance, sometimes it’s about vacation travel with family and or friends and they too can be confused about where to go on their getaway.”

The perfect client to use this interactive matching tool, is one that is “all over the map” or says something like,
“we don’t know where we want to go on our getaway, maybe some place warm and tropical?”

Virtual Vacationing is an interactive destination matching tool, Travel Specialists use on those time-consuming clients that are “all over the map” find their top two destination matches and virtually experience it before booking, thus closing the sale!

This interactive tool SAVES TIME, gets Couples EXCITED & ready to BOOK!

Our software is very intuitive, using scoring + algorithm to search & match destinations, combining 360*VR technology, we are revolutionizing the way SMART TRAVEL AGENTS sell Travel!

If your a Travel Specialist and are interested in finding out how this VR interactive destination matching tool can help you or your travel business,
check out Virtual Vacationing, they are offering a 30% discount through the month of May 2018 for all their brands.

To find out more information and select the best match for your business, check out all their brands and become a affiliate and start working smarter!

find your clients destination match, pick your brand

For questions or to set up a appointment, email us at info@virtualhoneymoon.com

Virtual Honeymoon in TravelWeek news!

Robin Hawkey, owner of Virtual Honeymoon, was recently interviewed by Travel Week about how she came up with the concept for this VR interactive matching tool, and how its solving problems for hundreds of  Travel specialists in the Romance Travel industry, as well as plans for growth.

 the travel industry largest and most trusted media source in Canada!
See below a copy to article.

Virtual Honeymoon launches sister sites, partners with ExplorVR amid company...

Virtual Honeymoon launches sister sites

Virtual Honeymoon launches sister sites, partners with ExplorVR amid company growth

Wednesday, April 4, 2018

TORONTO — Here’s a common scenario: You ask your wedding clients where they would go on their dream honeymoon, and they respond with a bunch of destinations in quick succession. Bali. Italy. Tahiti. The list goes on and on.

But there is a fun and easy way to whittle down the options so that your clients are left with a destination that best suits their needs and preferences. Virtual Honeymoon is an interactive destination matching tool used by agents with indecisive clients. Using intuitive software and an algorithm to search for and match destinations, the tool matches couples with their top two destinations, allowing them to ‘test drive’ these locales and help agents close the sale.

Robin Hawkey

Robin Hawkey- Owner of Virtual Honeymoon

Started and owned by travel industry veteran Robin Hawkey, Virtual Honeymoon kicked off in January 2015 for year-long testing before launching its affiliate program in March 2016. Hawkey says the idea came to her after “years of frustration of working with couples that were all over the map”, which resulted in wasting weeks of valuable time, sometimes only to lose them to the Internet.

“When couples have no idea where to go on their getaway, or say something like ‘We just want to go some place warm and tropical’, that usually leads to seeing every tropical island and comparing them all. We call [these couples] ‘tire-kickers’ or ‘time-wasters’ for using travel agents as a human resource tool,” she tells Travelweek.

How it works is simple: Clients answer a series of fun, interactive questions, the tool then matches them to their top two destinations based on their answers. After clients fill out a contact form, all the questions and answers, including their matches, are emailed directly to the travel agent who will then follow up directly.

The tool costs $24.95/month, or $239.52 per year with a savings of 20%.
You can access the site at virtualhoneymoon.com.

To enhance the experience, Hawkey has added a virtual reality component to the website’s destination pages. She’s teamed up with ExplorVR to allow clients to pre-experience their matched destination. Virtual Honeymoon’s affiliates have already used VR headsets and videos at wedding fairs where clients were able to test-drive their destinations on the spot.

“I think [VR] is so beneficial as most millennials want to be involved in the planning process. VR is the next best thing to being there!” said Hawkey. “I also feel that the agents who don’t get on this VR trend will be left behind – literally!”

Devin Kinasz, President & CEO of ExplorVR, adds: “Virtual Honeymoon is embracing VR technology and partnering with ExplorVR to give their agents access to exciting destination experiences. We are very excited to partner with Virtual Honeymoon because they align with our values of being a forward-thinking company that embraces technology.”

Virtual reality acts as the perfect selling tool in the destination wedding and honeymoon market as it allows clients to “try before they fly”. As Hawkey puts it, all couples want their weddings and honeymoons to go off without a hitch, so the best way to ensure that the destination matches their vision is to virtually travel there ahead of time.

“There is on average over two million weddings per year in the U.S. alone, with couples spending over $72 billion on weddings and $8 billion on honeymoons. The romance niche is such a great niche to get into to build your entire travel business,” said Hawkey. “If an agent does a great job on the wedding or honeymoon, and builds a good relationship with their client, they will do all their travel-related activities such as anniversaries, babymoons, graduations, family trips and more, not to mention the referrals to all their friends getting married. This creates a booming business that will continue to grow and prosper.”

With business booming, Virtual Honeymoon launched its sister site – Virtual Destination Wedding – at the Love Mexico event in Cabo last December. Operating much like Virtual Honeymoon, the new site not only matches clients with their top two destinations but also helps plan the wedding. And like its sister site, it costs $24.95, or $239.52 with a 20% discount.

Looking ahead, Hawkey is preparing to launch the company’s newest addition – Virtual Vacationing – on April 10 at the Travel Agent Forum in Las Vegas. While its main concept is the same as interactive destination matching, she says the new site does not focus on romance as the other two sites.

“We realize that not all getaways are about romance, sometimes it’s about vacation travel with family and friends and they too can be confused about where to go on their getaway,” she adds. “We are so excited to be at the Forum with our VR partner, ExplorVR. They have really helped our vision of bringing virtual travel to life, allowing clients to virtually experience their destination match before booking and, thus, closing sales!”

“Test drive” one of our demo-sites below and find the best match for your business:

Travel agents specializing in Romance Travel

Virtual Destination Wedding

       Destination Wedding Planners

Virtual Vacations

     Travel agents selling Vacations

Virtual Destination Wedding launched!

Virtual Honeymoon is excited to announce the launch of their sister site, Virtual Destination Wedding!

We found adding the wedding planning portion very important, as our virtual tool now not only matches top destinations, but helps plan the wedding as well.

Virtual Destination Wedding was created for Destination Wedding Specialists to use on their couples that have NO idea where they want to go to have their dream wedding!

The perfect client to use this interactive matching tool, is one that is “all over the map” or says something like,
“we dont’ know where we want to get married, maybe some place in the Caribbean?”
This interactive tool SAVES TIME, gets Couples EXCITED & ready to BOOK!

Virtual Destination Wedding is a interactive destination matching tool, Wedding planners are using for those time-consuming clients that are “all over the map” find their top two destination matches and virtually experience it before booking, thus closing the sale!
Our software is very intuitive, using scoring + algorithm to search & match destinations, combining 360*VR technology, we are revolutionizing the way SMART PLANNERS book Weddings!

“How cool would it be to take Virtual Destination Wedding tool to a Wedding fair, try on the couples that don’t know where they want to go?”
They can take our fun interactive test, get their destination match and then put a VR headset on and virtually pre-experience it before they book, making it a “easy sell!

Are you a Wedding Planner or Destination Wedding Specialists interested in trying this virtual tool to work smarter in your business?
Apply here

Virtual Honeymoon in the news!

Robin Hawkey, owner of Virtual Honeymoon, was recently interviewed by Travel Weekly’s Senior editor, Jamie Biesiada  about how she came up with the concept for this VR interactive matching tool, and how its solving problems for hundreds of  Travel specialists in the romance travel industry.

 the travel industry most trusted magazine source!  See below a copy and link to the article.

New website helps agents streamline honeymoon planning

By Jamie Biesiada 

 

Virtual Honeymoon wins 2017 Gold Magellan award

magellanawardVirtual Honeymoon was so excited to receive a prestigious Gold Magellan award for Virtualhoneymoon.com  for overall Travel agent innovation from Travel Weekly, the most influential provider of the travel news!

Secaucus, NJ (September 8, 2017) – Travel Weekly announced the winners of the 2017 Magellan Awards. With entries from across the U.S. and around the world, the Magellan Award winners represent the best in the travel industry and salute the outstanding travel professionals behind it all.
The Magellan Awards honor outstanding design, marketing and services in a broad range of industry segments including Hospitality, Travel Destinations, Cruise Lines, Online Travel Services, Airlines and Airports, Travel Agents and Agencies, Tour Operators and Ground Transportation.

“This year’s winners represent the most talented and creative people in not just the travel industry but of any industry,” said Arnie Weissmann, editor in chief of Travel Weekly. “They continue to raise the bar, to inspire travel and enhance the travel experience. Their work leaves a lasting impression on our expert judges and readers.”

The Magellan Awards are judged and overseen by a one-of-a-kind panel of top travel professionals representing theGold Magellan award best names and most accomplished leaders from the industry.

In determining winners, entries do not compete with one another, instead they are judged against a standard of excellence based on the long experience of Travel Weekly.

About Travel Weekly (www.travelweekly.com) Through its portfolio of digital and print products and face-to-face events, Travel Weekly is the most influential provider of news, research, opinion and analysis to the North American travel trade marketplace. Travel Weekly is a division of Secaucus, New Jersey-based Northstar Travel Group, the largest travel business-to-business travel publisher in the world.

Winners will be featured in an October issue of Travel Weekly in a special section devoted to the most exciting and innovative work being done in the travel industry today. 

Luxury Resorts in Dominican Republic

Eden Roc Luxury Resort is a European Glamour with a Caribbean Twist ~
This brand new boutique hotel within the Cap Cana Resort community blends European Glamour with Caribbean charm providing the ultimate in privacy and comfort.
Step inside Eden Roc at Cap Cana, and you’ll find a slice of Europe in the Caribbean. With its bold, Mediterranean Revival design, this 34-suite hideaway evokes the rivieras of Europe, with lime and fuchsia accents adding a tropical touch. Turquoise waters, sugar sands and a natural grotto — complete with waterfalls and a lagoon — elevate the refined, Caribbean ambience.
.Eden Roc at Cap Cana

Virtuoso Amenities for your stay in 2017

    • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
    • Full breakfast daily (served in restaurant)
    • Complimentary 30 minutes massage per person per stay
    • $100 USD Food & Beverage credit
    • Early check-in/late check-out (if availability)
    • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Casa de Campo Resort & Villas- La Romana.
“A member of the Leading Hotels of the World”
Built high above the Chavón River with views of the river’s gorge, Altos de Chavón replicates a 16th-century Italian village hand-constructed out of rock, stone, iron, wood, and cobblestones.
Expect gourmet cuisine and fine wines and spirits throughout the destination’s restaurants and bars, a 370-slip Marina & Yacht Club, Polo & Equestrian Club, a Tennis Center, called the Wimbledon of the Caribbean, and 245-acre Shooting Center. Spanning 7,000 tropical acres on the southeastern coast. caso de capo
Virtuoso Amenities for your stay 2017-2018:

      • Daily Buffet breakfast, for up to two in room guests (for EP/Room only reservations)
      • $200 USD equivalent Spa Services credit  (not combinable, not valid on room rate)
      • Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
      • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability from Elite Patio to Elite Balcony

Hotel Boutique Casa Colonial Beach & Spa-
Located on the exotic north coast of the Dominican Republic and directly on the water, Casa Colonial Beach & Spa is the ultimate, world-class seaside resort. This tastefully intimate resort, thoughtfully designed by Sarah Garcia, daughter of owner Don Isidro Garcia, features an exceptional fusion of old-world elegance with distinctly contemporary style. The resort sets its colonial chic vibe with sheer curtains, eclectic furnishings, fabric light elements and one-of-a-kind art throughout.
Hotel Boutique Casa Colonial
Virtuoso Amenities for your stay in 2017

  • Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
  • Full breakfast daily for up to two in-room guests in Veranda Ocean Front Restaurant, on the beach or room service
  • $100 USD equivalent Food & Beverage credit to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full)
  • Complimentary 50-minute massage for up to two people, per room, once during stay
  • Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi

Virtuoso advisors can secure exclusive amenities at nearly 1,200 properties around the world, when you check in your VIP!

Try before you Fly with Virtual Honeymoon!

“Try before you fly” using Virtualhoneymoon.com!
Virtual Honeymoon is a Interactive Destination Matching tool, that Travel Specialists use for those time-consuming clients that are “all over the map!”
The intuitive tool uses algorithm + scoring technology software, to virtually match each client to their top Destinations, where they can virtually experience it before they book!
Virtual Honeymoon just partnered with Travel weeks Xplr VR company based out of Canada, using their VR + 360 videos.

Clients can now “virtually experience” their destinations they match to, thus travel specialists closing the sale!

Try before you fly!

Here’s a great example of using this technology to work smarter and close the sale from a Virtual Honeymoon affiliate:
“I had a appointment with a Destination Wedding couple on Wednesday night, they both took the Virtual Honeymoon quiz and matched to BVI and Jamaica!”  The groom was excited about Jamaica, the bride wasn’t sure, but was open to exploring. I put the VR headset on her, set to Jamaica with sound on and within 2 minutes she was SOLD!!!! “I wish I would have videoed taped her, she was smiling, looking up down all around, laughing, gasping with excitement!” The groom was trying to pull headset off her, he was so excited to try it! He got his turn and was like a little kid, pointing in the air, spinning around, smiling, etc….within about 10 minutes, they BOTH fell in Love with Jamaica for their beach wedding and honeymoon!
 
“This interactive tool SAVES TIME, gets clients EXCITED & ready to BOOK!
 
Today’s travel consumers are tech savvy, and expect brands to be as well!
Virtual Honeymoon + Xplr VR technology is revolutionizing the way “smart agents” sell travel!

Virtual Honeymoon offers white label sites, allowing  agents to personalize their agencies, helping them work smarter!”

Robin Hawkey is the owner/visionary of Virtual Honeymoon.
She won 2016 Trendsetter Award for “Best Targeted Marketing idea” and was featured in Travelage West.
This year, Virtual Honeymoon is up for Travvy Award and Magellan Award.

Romance Travel Specialists- Are your couples all over the Map?

We would like to share with you a new VR “award winning” interactive tool that will save you time and help you WORK SMARTER!

Virtualhoneymoon.com

                                                  Try Demo now! click the box above to start.

Virtual Honeymoon was created to use on your couples that have NO idea where to go on their Romantic Getaway!
The perfect client to use this VR interactive matching tool, is one that is “all over the map” or says something like, “we don’t’ know where we want to go, just some place warm and tropical.”
This interactive tool SAVES TIME, gets Couples EXCITED & ready to BOOK!

By implementing VR (Virtual Reality) and 360* Videos, agents can now not only match the couple to their top destination but let them virtually experience it! 

“How cool would it be to take Virtual Honeymoon tool to a Wedding fair, try on the couples that don’t know where they want to go on their Romantic Getaway, they can take our fun interactive test, get their destination match and then the agent put a VR headset on them to jet away to virtually experience say Jamaica! Agents better have their deposit forms ready!

vr

How it works:
By answering a series of carefully thought out, fun, interactive questions about their likes, preferences, budget etc….the intuitive VR tool will match the clients to their top two Destinations based on their answers selected. The tool will then show their top two matched destinations side-by-side with descriptions of each, from there they can select one (or both) to experience, a beautiful page opens up with destination information, photo, video, links to explore! The system can track each clients Q/A data and when activated, emailed direct to agent, for follow-up!

Robin Hawkey is the owner/visionary of Virtual Honeymoon and loves to share her passion for Romantic Travel. She has won numerous Travel Awards, with the most recent as 2016 Trendsetter Award for “Best Targeted Marketing” and featured in Travelage West. see article here: Travelage West

Mauritius is a Top Honeymoon Destination!

Mauritius, a sparkling crystal in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, will fascinate you. A hypnotic blend of Indian, African and European influences, Mauritius might be synonymous with luxury beach breaks, but this destination will dazzle even the most discerning traveler.

Mauritius is a small volcanic island surrounded by beautiful coral reefs in the Indian Ocean off the coast of East Africa. This small volcanic island is surrounded by magnificent coral reefs and an abundance of exotic sea life. It’s a most exotic island, with lush subtropical forests, over 80 different types of palm trees and craters and basalt rocks littering its interior. It offers superb hiking, excellent mountain climbing and world-class diving.Mauritius, in the middle of the indian ocean.

Recommended highlights:

  • Blue Bay- Swim, snorkel or take a glass-bottomed boat out to see the fish and more than 50 species of coral in Blue Bay, Mauritius’ only marine park.
  • Explore the beaches- It’s no exaggeration to say beaches are everywhere on Mauritius. Favorites are northern beaches such as Trou aux Biches, shaded by tall casuarinas trees. Mont Choisy,1.2 mile stretch of white sand curves north from here, while between Grand Baie and Cap Malheureux lies the small cove of Péreybère.
  •  Tour Moka Range- Hike, bike, horse or a 4-wheel drive, see spectacular 360-degree views of Port Louis make the easy two-hour climb of Le Pouce, Mauritius’ third highest mountain.
  • Grand Baie- A seaside village with a beautiful beach and emerald waters, the centre of the island’s watersports industry, with parasailing, underwater walks, submarine excursions and semi-submersible scooters all available.
  • Le Souffleur- Unusually for reef-protected Mauritius, the full force of the ocean strikes its southern coast, leading to otherworldly rock formations. A cave in cliffs around Souillac at Le Souffleur helps funnel waves into a geyser 65ft. high.

Find your Perfect Destination Match now at www.Virtualhoneymoon.com

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Barbados- Romance in the Caribbean

Barbados- Sophisticated and casual, warm and friendly, and always distinctively charming. The Caribbean’s easternmost island boasts beautiful powder white sand beaches, shady palms, and clear blue waters all surrounded by lush tropics of this friendly little British island.

Barbados is nestled in the northern part of the Atlantic Ocean, and Caribbean’s most eastern island. Blessed with beautiful powder white sand beaches, shady palms, and clear blue waters all surrounded by lush tropics of this friendly little British island. Barbados is an ancient coral reef that formed over one million years ago, with 20-mile stretch of soft coral, permeated by the water forming underground caverns

.Barbdos

Highlights:

  • Barbados Beaches- As diverse as the island. The west coast is calm and palms sway on the white sandy shores while the water laps gently to shore, head to the South side and you will still find flawless sandy beaches protected by coral reefs, go south-east and experience more lively surf  for watersports, along the east coast the beaches are wind-blown and the shore is pounded by the Atlantic ocean making a surfers dream come true. Head to the North side and coral and sandstone cliffs rise out of the sea reaching over hundred feet in height, you will also find sheltered coves there.
  • Lawrence Gap- A 1.3 km stretch of road in the parish of Christ Church, is famous for it’s fine restaurants, diverse accommodation, lively nightlife and good shopping.Commonly known as a place where cultures meet and merge, a great Barbados experience.
  • Oistin’s Fish Fry- Fishing town on the south coast, puts on their version of street fair with excellent fresh fish, (tuna, swordfish, marlin, mahi-mahi, flying fish), lobster, chicken etc…in a informal setting. Enjoy live bands, dancing, craft vendors, or just hang out with the friendly locals.
  • Harrison’s Cave- Located in the central uplands of the island, this breathtakingly beautiful, crystallized limestone cavern is a testament to nature’s mastery. Flowing streams, deeps pools, of crystal clear water and towering columns characterize this living cave. This is a must see to believe underground adventure!
  • Wildlife Reserve- Tropical haven for exotic animals, reptiles and birds, of which are threatened with extinction. Wander through their tropical jungle, or stay a day and experience the wild side of Barbados, don’t miss the green monkeys!

Find your Destination Match at www.Virtualhoneymoon.com

Bali- Romantic Travel for Honeymoons and more

Bali is known as the Island of the Gods, truly a dream island paradise, with luminous green rice paddies that stretch for miles; monkeys that run amok at ancient temples; live volcanoes that dominate the landscape. Beautiful, untamed surf beaches to a unique blend of modern facilities combined with wonderful rich cultural heritage. Bali is truly ideal tropical destination has beautiful beaches, an exotic interior complete with a live volcano and rice paddies plus extremely friendly people make this an unforgettable place. Perfect for Honeymoons and Destination Weddings!                                   Beautiful BaliRecommended highlights:

  • Bali’s Pura Besakih- A temple that dates back originally to the 10th century and stands high on the volcanic slopes of Gunung Agung. Nowadays, it is a massive complex of more than 30 temples, and the setting for great ceremonial splendor on festival days.
  • Ujong Kulon National Park- Paddle in a dugout canoe through the untouched wilderness, isolated at the extreme south western tip of Java in search of the elusive Java rhino.
  • Sea Temple of Tanah- One of the most breathtaking sights of Bali. Jutting from a rock formation into the sea, legend has it that sea snakes guard the temple from evil intruders and demons.
  • Krakatoa- Take a boat trip to view Krakotoa, located between Java and Sumatra. Dormant volcanoes include Gunung Agung in Bali, Gunung Rinjani on Lombok island and Keli Mutu on Nusa Tenggara Barat, which has lakes with different colored waters.
  • Pasir Timbul– Imagine a beach that only exists for a few hours a day! Technically, these are sand patches that emerge out of the ocean when the tide is low. Different sandbars connect these patches and the result is spectacular. Thankfully, this spot is not on any top 10 beaches of the world lists and was empty when we visited it.
  • Pianemo- The most popular spot in Raja Ampat and is used as a cover image for many travel brochures. The viewpoint, in reality, is much better than the pictures, especially if you visit it when the sky is clear.

Explore more NOW!

St. Martin – St. Maarten Romance

St. Martin-St.Maarten- Although the island is often referred to by one name, it is actually divided between France (St. Martin) and the Netherlands (St. Maarten). Cruise ships dock at the Dutch capital, Philipsburg, which boasts hundreds of duty-free shops, golfing, casinos, and exciting nightlife. In St. Martin you’ll find less-crowded beaches and fabulous restaurants. Marigot and Grand Case are famous for their Creole cuisine.

Beautiful beaches on island of St. Martin

The two sides of the island have some similarities, yet each offers a unique experience for travelers. St. Martin is the place to go for quiet relaxation and seclusion. It offers quaint towns with typical French colonial architecture and nice street-side cafes. Some of the best restaurants can be found on this side of the island, specializing in sophisticated French and Creole cuisine. Head to Sint Maarten for the nightlife and for a more lively scene. Their renowned celebration of Carnival includes parades, music, dancing, and great parties that last all night. Activities abound here, from casinos to malls to dance clubs — something for everyone to guarantee an action-packed, upbeat vacation. Both sides offer unbeatable white-sand beaches, plenty of palm trees and the chance to experience some of the best island time that the Caribbean has to offer.

The two nations have been living peacefully (for the most part) for the past 350 years, cooperating and sharing the island’s generous natural resources, beauty and tourist traffic, yet still allowing their respective national cultures to shine through. Both are great for romantic travel!

Highlights:

  • Bask in the sunshine on St. Martin’s stunning beaches
  • Kayak through the hidden shores of the island for an intimate look at the coastline
  • Snorkel in protected Marine Reserve Le Gallion, where sea life flourishes
  • Charter a boat for the day and explore the island in comfort and style
  • Go horseback riding along the beautiful shores

Seychelles Romance Travel

The Seychelles are located in the Indian Ocean, are thought to have been the original Garden of Eden, the stunning beauty of these islands will leave the most discerning traveler speechless. Visitors to Seychelles will enjoy the relaxing vibe the islands have to offer, the beauty of the silver sand beaches, and the perfection in the lush surroundings. The simplicity of life on these beautiful islands create a genuine feeling of escape. The people are kind and welcoming, proud of the immense beauty of their islands. Seychelles islands aren’t cluttered with roads, it is popular for visitors to get around by means of foot, bike, or boat.

The Seychelles are located in the Indian Ocean, are thought to have been the original Garden of Eden, the stunning beauty of these islands will leave the most discerning traveler speechless.

Top Highlights:

  • Visit the sights and sounds of the center of Victoria.
  • Challenge yourself for an adventurous hike up into the woods of Mahe.
  • Take a scenic boat ride out on the pristine waters of the Indian Ocean.
  • Island hop to Praslin, the second largest of Seychelles, take in the breath-taking scenery and picnic on a remote beach.

There is no bad time to visit the Seychelles. This warm, tropical climate stays beautiful year – round, perfect for travelers all over the world. Popular activities include bird-watching, hiking, snorkeling, scuba diving, sailing / windsailing, and surfing. These islands are a tropical paradise. Whether you’re the active type, or the type looking for a little R & R, look no further than the Seychelles. These islands captivate travelers with their spectacular scenery and their ease of a place that has been closely treasured, a perfect honeymoon or destination wedding island!

 

To connect with a Seychelles Romance Destination Specialist, and get your personalized travel album and up to $100 off one of our recommended resorts, please visit us @ www.VirtualHoneymoon.com

Find your top 2 Destinations, try our fun interactive matching tool and virtually experience your top destinations: www.Virtualhoneymoon.com