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Welcome to the website of the Arizona Chapter of the American Society of Travel Agents, your source for the latest travel-industry news and information for agents and travelers in Arizona.

With More than 750 Participants, ASTA’s First IDE in Latin America Is Huge Success

"ASTA really put together an amazing experience" was a phrase echoed by those who attended ASTA’s seventh International Destination Expo (IDE), in Lima, Peru. The event brought together travel professionals from around the world for in-depth training and education on the culture, unique tourist attractions and travel business of Lima and Peru. “The IDE concept is wonderful -- you cannot sell a destination from a picture, you have to experience it!” said Lidia Slusarek of VIP Travel Service (Rochester, N.Y.). Read what industry leaders had to say at the General Session, check out what attendees are saying or make a comment of your own on ASTA’s Facebook page.Read more from ASTA…

Dubai to Host ASTA's 2013 International Destination Expo

Travel agents interested in expanding their knowledge of the Middle East as a destination for their clients should make plans to attend ASTA’s eighth annual International Destination Expo (IDE) April 3-7, 2013, in Dubai. Through its International Destination Expo, ASTA continues its global push to provide certified destination training and provides agents with the vital skills to market their business and increase sales.Read more from ASTA…

Every Transaction Requires an Agent's Full Commitment

Travel agents should give it their all in every transaction with clients and not fear the risk of rejection, Scott Koepf writes. This marks them as superior professionals who love the job and helps them improve their skills, he writes.Read more from Agent@Home Magazine…

Vacationers Turn to Travel Agents when Things Get Complicated

There are fewer U.S. travel agents today than a few years ago, but many smart travelers keep one on speed dial to help them deal with the occasional travel snag. “One of the biggest values of a good travel adviser is understanding what’s important to you and being able to provide options you hadn’t thought of,” said Matthew Upchurch, CEO of the Virtuoso network of affiliated travel agencies.Read more from CNN…

Published Airline Fares Must Now Include Taxes, Fees

New rules by the Department of Transportation took effect this week requiring airlines to disclose fees and taxes in published fares. “The rule really addresses a problem that doesn’t exist,” said Chris Mainz, a spokesman for Southwest Airlines. "There’s no justification for treating airlines any different than any other product you’d buy in America."Read more from Bloomberg…