ASTA Premium Member Recognized in Conde Nast Traveler

Alexandria, Va., Aug. 26, 2007—ASTA Premium Member Rudi Steele of Rudi Steele Travel Inc., in Dallas was featured in the August edition of Conde Nast Traveler. ‘Wendy Perrin’s Eighth Annual Top 130 Travel Agents’ featured an article titled ‘Secret Agent Rudi Steele’ which recounted one client’s experience with Steele.

Michael Kinsley, a journalist, political commentator and avid traveler was referred to Steele by Wendy Perrin. Kinsley lists the compelling reasons to use a travel agent through the telling of his experience with Steel planning a vacation with his wife to Europe. Kinsley’s trip included a stay in Ravello, Italy at a hotel recommended by Steele, who using his expertise and industry connections, was able to arrange for several value-added experiences including complimentary lunch and dinner and free use of the health club. Steele was also able to arrange for a substantial discount on Kinsley’s first-class airfare.

Kinsley also cites as a plus Steele’s ability to monitor his trip and consistently stay in contact with the couple for alterations to the trip plan and to insure their satisfaction. In addition, Steele was able to provide special touches, like arranging flowers and champagne for the couple at one destination.

“Travel agents are here for our clients before, during and after their trip,” said ASTA president and CEO Cheryl Hudak, CTC. “We provide value, expertise, convenience and personal service.”

The advantages of using a professional travel agent are clear: personalized customer service, customer advocacy and valuable industry knowledge and contacts. Travel agents are out to find the consumer the best rate available and offer their clients convenient, one-stop shopping. Using a professional travel agent saves money, as well as time.

‘Wendy Perrin’s Eighth Annual Top 130 Travel Agents’ lists the top U.S. travel agents divided by specialty. ASTA Premium Member agencies Altour Travel, Brownell Travel, Linden Travel, Protravel International and Valerie Wilson Travel were also on the list.

The mission of the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) is to facilitate the business of selling travel through effective representation, shared knowledge and the enhancement of professionalism. ASTA seeks a retail travel marketplace that is profitable and growing and a rewarding field in which to work, invest and do business.

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