TravelwithJake

MIH Play

2010-12-01T22:37:00.000-08:00

Important Lesson: Learning to Use the Principles of Leveraging

2008-12-30T10:11:00.000-08:00

The Three Principles of Leveraging

An individual's influence is greatly increased by utilizing a third party's credibility (experience, knowledge, personal success).
You can accomplish much more through synergy than you can on your own.
An idea made contagious gains momentum by association.

Third Party Credibility

Your prospect will be more open to listen to and be influenced by the information presented from an experienced or successful source such as your Sponsor/Upline team, a prospecting tool or a Business Event. When you are speaking with a friend, it's a conversation. When your sponsor or upline joins the conversation, it becomes a business meeting.

Power of the ABC

Influence

Your sponsor is the "A," you are the "B," and your prospect is the "C." Your prospect already has a level of trust in you. They will appreciate your personal story and enthusiasm about the products and opportunity. They will also appreciate that you have invited an expert to share with them and answer all of their questions.

Having your top prospects talk to you Upline team will help take the pressure off you.

The Importance of Role Playing

Before making your first phone call to a new prospect, ask your upline to role-play with you. Remain coachable and trainable. Make yourself available for your first ABCs (with you being the "B").

YTB's Handy Memory Trigger List

2008-12-30T09:57:00.000-08:00

Click to enlarge

My Greatest Christmas Gift

2008-12-29T20:50:00.000-08:00

Alis got me the greatest Christmas gift ever. Tickets to go see the Lakers vs Celtics game on Christmas day.

Thanks Alis

My Lakers Blog

Watch The Highlights

Big Surprise Christmas Present

2008-12-29T00:11:00.000-08:00

My niece Samantha was just opening up her Christmas Gift when my mom almost spoiled the last gift for her. Watch the reaction of my niece when she opened her last gift. It was really funny and cute.

The Craziest "YMCA" Dance Ever

2008-12-29T00:07:00.000-08:00

I went to my Uncle and Aunt's 25th year anniversary party and one of the surprised performance was from the crazy guys at the party performing to the "YMCA" song. They were going wild.

Lakers vs Celtics Christmas Day Pau Gasol's Awesome 3 Point Play

2008-12-29T00:06:00.000-08:00

Pau Gasol didn't do well in the first 3 quarters against the Celtics but made it happen in the final 3 minutes of the game when it counted the most. He scored 7 points and blocked 2 shots during those last minutes pushing the Lakers to a 92-83 victory. Watch the Lakers fans reaction.

Lakers vs Celtics Raja Rondo Injury fake?

2008-12-29T00:03:00.000-08:00

Remember when Paul Pierce faked his injury at the NBA finals last year? When Raja Rondo got hit by Pau Gasol to the chest and fell to the floor...the fans started to boooooooo!!! Watch the reaction of the fans.

Lakers #1 Fan of the Night vs Celtics on Christmas Day

2008-12-28T19:25:00.000-08:00

I thought I was the Lakers #1 Fan until I saw her. She was like this all night. Although we were sitting at the 300 section (What they call...Noseblead section), It wasn't that bad because she was next to us.

The Craziest Basketball Dunks

2008-12-28T19:07:00.000-08:00

I was at the Staples Center in Los Angeles for the Christmas Game between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Boston Celtics. During Halftime...they had a show with the best dunk team out there. They performed some crazy dunks.

YTB Memory Trigger List

2008-12-25T12:36:00.000-08:00

Go through the "Memory Trigger List" and ask yourself "Who have I ever known who is or was _________?" This list is designed to trigger your imagination. Remember, you don't need phone numbers and addresses just yet, or even actual names if you don't know them. Just write down everyone you can think of, including the lady at the grocery checkout, the guy who mows your lawn, and the couple who owns the local florist shop, etc. You're simply brainstorming now. We'll fill in the details later.

Names List

Remember, your job is to take people through the process; their job is to say "Yes" or "No". This is a sorting business, not a selling business...and they do the sorting, not you. Share the opportunity with everyone you know and they will sort themselves in or sort themselves out. You do not have to convince anyone or twist anyone's arm to get them to join this project. If you are excited and share the opportunity with others, you will find many people who are interested in what you have to offer.

Establishing Your Resources with YTB

2008-12-23T18:57:00.000-08:00

Your Prospects: Who do you know?

First make a list of prospects, people with whom you can contact and share the YTB business and opportunity. Begin by brainstorming and generating as many names as possible, without making any judgments as to whether or not they would be interested. Make a list of your peers, people you look up to, and people who look up to you.

Your goal is to generate a list of at least 100 names (minimum). Spend an hour or two fucusing on this project. Many people begin this assignment by thinking "I don't know very many people." You may be surprised that our handy "Memory Trigger List" is designed to get you brainstorming.

Make a Decision To Succeed in YTB

2008-12-23T18:13:00.000-08:00

Grow your YTB business by developing customers and Referral Travel Agents. But first, you must make a decision to succeed.

All of us generally follow these steps in arriving at a decision.

A = Attention

I = Interest

D = Desire

A = Action

C = Congratulations

First, something must get our Attention. We may not interested at first, but with additional knowledge, we can become more interested. At some point, our Interest may increase to the level of desire and motivate us to obtain that which we Desire.

Our desire may then build to the point where we take Action - We make the decision to get what we want, then we do something about it.

We have found that when someone makes a decision to improve their life, they deserve to be Congratulated!

More Helpful Training

Principles of Success for Your YTB Business

Principles of Success for Your YTB Business

2008-12-23T17:44:00.000-08:00

Attitude

Making your business successful requires a proactive attitude. A proactive attitude produces vision, and vision attracts people. Think big! Thinking is free so might as well think big. Develop a clear vision of where you will be one year from today. Make a vision board. Your business is about much more than money...it's about bringing balance into your life. It is about "Your Why". You will need a positive, can-do attitude to be effective in building a business. Do a check-up from the neck-up and make sure you put yourself on a Positive Mental Track.

Goals

Take a moment and clearly define what success means to you. Write down your goals (what you want) and your desires (why you want it) in accordance with your ideal value system for the next year. Ask yourself these questions?

What are my professional goals? Who do I want to become?
What are my healthy mind goals and my mental attitude?
What are my goals for my family?
What can I do to contribute to my community and country?
What are my financial goals? What do I expect to Be earning by this time next year?

Break down yearly goals into obtainable monthly goals. Create goal dates in your calendar for the year - it's great to see your progress achieved! Put your goals on an index card that you can carry with you to help you remain focused.

"The Pacman Nation" vs "The Hatton Cult"

2008-12-21T20:38:00.000-08:00

I was surfing the internet trying to find out if there's any new news about the Manny Pacquiao and Ricky Hatton fight. Sure enough...I see an article posted in DiamondBoxing.com and there I was. There's a picture of me and some members of the team that was taken during "The Dream Match" Weigh-In between Oscar DeLaHoya and Manny Pacquiao the day before the fight. We were going crazy!

Click here to see the article and see if you can find me in the picture.

Man...if the Ricky Hatton/Manny Pacquiao fight happens...not only it's gonna be a hell of a fight between the two fighters but...It's gonna be a bigger fight between the two fans. "The Pacman Nation" vs "The Hatton Cult". If you haven't seen "The Hatton Cult"...watch the videos below and you will see that it's GOING DOWN on fight night.

"Walkin' in a Hatton wonderland"

"There's Only 1 Ricky Hatton"

These guys bring a Band to the fight. Trumpets, Drums, and everything!
We gotta come up with a song for Manny and bring a band of our own!

Bring it on Hatton Cult!!!

PACMAN'S "Dream Match" After Fight Party

2008-12-19T22:35:00.000-08:00

Here are some pictures from PACMAN'S "Dream Match" After Fight Party.

Nonito "The Filipino Flash" Donaire, Me, and Manny's sparring partner Rashad Halloway

The best sign i've seen

Manny Pacquiao’s Rumjungle After Party Click to watch the video

Manny Pacquiao's Rumjungle After Fight Party

2008-12-19T22:32:00.000-08:00

After the celebration at Manny Pacquiao's Mandalay Bay Suite...we headed down to Rumjungle where hundreds even thousands of fans waited to get a glimpse of the Pound 4 Pound #1 boxer in the world.

Manny was ready to go home and rest but it took us forever to get him out of there because there were too many fans wanting to meet him. (My Quest to Meeting Manny Pacquiao ) It was okay for Manny though because he just left a mark in history by defeating Oscar DeLaHoya. He definitely has "The Heart of a Champion."

Celebration at Manny Pacquiao's Hotel Suite

2008-12-19T22:31:00.000-08:00

We went straight to Manny Pacquiao's Mandaylay Bay Suite after the fight and celebrated while waiting for Manny to come back. Everyone was going crazy.

Then He walked in. He's looking good...in a suit...comb his hair...and he walked in the suite the same way he walked in the ring. No cuts or bruises on his face.

My Quest to Meeting Manny Pacquiao

Getting Ready For "The Dream Match"

2008-12-19T22:30:00.000-08:00

Me and my friend Sal dressed for the fight.

Pretty close to the ring, huh?

Me and The Family and Team

My Quest to Meeting Manny Pacquiao

Manny Pacquiao's Million Dollar Autographs

2008-12-19T22:27:00.000-08:00

I bought this filipino boxing gloves that I thought was the coolest because of my filipino pride. I had to have my good friend Manny Pacquiao autograph it.

My Quest to Meeting Manny Pacquiao

I also got the Official Dream Match T-Shirt

Autographed by Manny Pacquiao

Manny Pacquiao vs. Antonio Margarito?

2008-12-19T22:22:00.000-08:00

There was talks about a possible fight between Manny Pacquiao vs. Antonio Margarito after Manny Mexicuted Oscar DeLaHoya but it was just all talk. It was mentioned to Freddie Roach and he responded, "I'm a brave guy...but I'm not stupid." Even though I think Manny can beat Antonio by attacking the body...the fight between the two is not gonna happen. Manny's next fight will either be Ricky Hatton from England or Floyd Mayweather Jr. if he comes out of retirement. Either or...Manny will knock out both fighters.

Me and Antonio Margarito hanging out before "The Dream Match"

Watch highlights of Antonio Margarito's thrilling TKO victory over Miguel Cotto.

Other "The Dream Match" Experience

Praying For Manny Pacquiao the Day of "The Dream Match"

2008-12-19T22:11:00.000-08:00

We are at Manny Pacquiao's Suite with friends and family during the day of "The Dream Match" fight against Oscar DeLaHoya. We all got together to pray for Manny....to win the fight.

Watching HBO 24/7 With Manny Pacquiao

I Thought I Was The #1 Fan Until I Met Him

Having Breakfast with “The People’s Champ”

Hanging Out With Winky The Wright Way

2008-12-16T15:34:00.000-08:00

Hanging out with the former undisputed light middleweight world champion and current middle weight contender...Winky Wright.

Winky is having a great career. Won twice against Sugar Shane Mosley, dominated Felix Trinidad, fought with current middleweight champ Jermain Taylor but was ruled a dissappointing draw. He hasn't lost in eight years until he lost in 2007 against "The Excecutioner" Bernard Hopkins.

Watch Winky Wright's Greatest hits

Try To Card Me Now!!!

2008-12-11T23:03:00.000-08:00

When I was at Las Vegas for "The Dream Match" between Oscar DeLaHoya and Manny Pacquiao...I got carded at least 20 times. Even for just walking around the casinos. One time...I was walking with a friend at Ceasars Palace late at night and 2 guards came from behind and asked for my I.D. Guess what?...he thought it was fake so I had to follow him to an empty office while he checked on my I.D. He freakin made a copy of my I.D. and faxed it to the Police Department. At this moment...I'm just laughing. I had to wait about 40 minutes to get a response back. Everything was clear. The guards said, "Sorry about that, there was a suspect that fit your description...but you're good to go." Can you believe that. Now I'm just walking around the casinos and gambling like this.

Watching HBO 24/7 With Manny Pacquiao

2008-12-11T22:55:00.000-08:00

We were at Manny Pacquiao's Suite at the Mandalay Bay Hotel in Las Vegas watching the final episode of DeLaHoya/Pacquiao 24/7 on HBO. I don't know if you saw it yet but if you did...remember when Oscar landed in Las Vegas and the moment he step out of his jet, he closed his eyes with his arms out, took a deep breath, and did this moment thing. Well...Manny stood up and acted like Oscar in that scene and it was so funny. I wish I had that on tape.

If you haven't seen the final episode of the DeLaHoya/Pacquiao 24/7...click here to watch it. Look for the scene when DeLaHoya stepped outside his jet when he landed on Las Vegas.

More of "The Dream Match" experience

How Can Somebody Fall Asleep?

2008-12-11T22:41:00.000-08:00

This was funny. Manny Pacquiao was working on his footworks and looked over to my friend Sal next to me and quess what he was doing? He was falling asleep cuz he didn't have enough sleep the night before. So Manny was making fun of him.

More Manny Pacquiao Training

Manny Pacquiao's 1 - 2 Punch

2008-12-11T22:37:00.000-08:00

Freddie Roach preparing Manny Pacquiao for "The Dream Match" with Oscar DeLaHoya at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. They are working on a 1 - 2 punch. A straight left to the body...then a right hook to the head. This 1 - 2 punch was really effective during the fight.

More Manny Pacquiao training

Manny Pacquiao Going For The Body

2008-12-11T22:28:00.000-08:00

Freddie Roach preparing Manny Pacquiao for "The Dream Match" with Oscar DeLaHoya at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. They are working on going for the body. Attacking the body and counter punching to the body. By watching the fight...you know that Manny and Freddie truly prepared for this.

Manny Warming Up For “The Dream Match”

I Thought I Was The #1 Fan Until I Met Him

2008-12-11T08:59:00.000-08:00

Manny playing a game of darts with one of his friend. I thought I was the #1 fan until I met this guy. Check out the video and look at his friend.

He must be the #1 fan for doing this!

The Greatest Trilogy in Boxing History

2008-12-11T08:56:00.000-08:00

When I think of the greatest trilogy in boxing history...I couldn't think of a better one that the Rafael Marquez vs. Israel Vasquez trilogy. The fights were filled with action, blood, and knockdowns. Check out the highlights of their 2nd fight.

Me and Rafael Marquez

Me and Israel Vasquez

More Press Conference Pictures

Going Nuts at "The Dream Match" Weigh-In

2008-12-11T08:54:00.000-08:00

We are at the Weigh-In for "The Dream Match" the day before the fight and everyone is going nuts. One side of the arena are the DeLaHoya fans and the other side are the Pacquiao fans. We were going back and forth chanting and yelling "Oscar, Oscar!" and "Manny, Manny, Manny, Manny, Manny!" We were the loudest of course. I'm beginning to lose my voice at this point.

We had signs and flags, wearing our Manny Pacquiao T-Shirts. We had filipino pride.

Up Close with the Trainers of Oscar DeLaHoya

2008-12-11T08:52:00.000-08:00

More pictures at "The Dream Match" press conference at MGM Grand in Las Vegas

Me and Oscar's brother...Joel DeLaHoya

Me and Legendary Trainer...Angelo Dundee

Me and Oscar's new trainer who also trains the Marquez Brothers...Ignacio "Nacho" Berenstain

Will somebody please tell me what his name is. I totally forgot and it's killing me.

Other Press Conference Pictures

"Mr. Counter Puncher"...Manny's Kryptonite

2008-12-11T08:50:00.000-08:00

Me and Juan Manuel Marquez at "The Dream Match" Press Conference at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

He was Manny Pacquiao's hardest opponent because of his counter punching style. Watch the highlights of the rematch between Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Marquez.

I definitely want to see a 3rd match between the two. This time...Marquez will stay down!

The Oscar That Never Gave Up!

2008-12-11T08:49:00.000-08:00

Me and Oscar Larios at "The Dream Match" Press Conference at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas

Watch the 12th round between Oscar Larios and Manny Pacquiao. Manny dominated the fight and knocked Oscar down a couple of times but he kept on fighting while the other Oscar (DeLaHoya) didn't get knocked down once but gave up and quit. Although Oscar Larios lost the fight...he was a winner to me because he never quit.

"Quitters never win...Winners never quit!"

Manny Warming Up For "The Dream Match"

2008-12-11T08:45:00.000-08:00

We were at Manny Pacquiao's training gym in Las Vegas to watch him train for the last time before his big fight with Oscar DeLaHoya. He's just warming up and looking good.

More "Dream Match" experience

Look…It’s Mike!! Mike Who???

Having Breakfast with "The People's Champ"

2008-12-11T08:39:00.000-08:00

Here...I'm having breakfast with Manny the "People's Champ", Jinkee the wife, Cesar "The Masseuse", and "The Doctor".

We were having a conversation about why they call Manny the "People's Champ". Manny's response was..."Because I'm always for the people...and the people's always for me." That is absolutely true. He's the "People's Champ" not only because of what he does inside the ring...but also because of what he does outside the ring. He's the most caring, thoughtful, and generous guy I've known.

Look...It's Mike!! Mike Who???

2008-12-11T08:35:00.000-08:00

Peek a Boo...guess who??? It's Mike. Mike who??? He was at the Las Vegas gym watching Manny's last training day before "The Dream Match"..giving him and the team tips and pointers on how to beat DeLaHoya. It was cool getting a chance to be up close to him. He looks like he can give you nightmares but he's cool.

Me and Mike Tyson at the Las Vegas Gym

On My Way To Las Vegas With Manny Pacquaio

2008-12-01T07:54:00.000-08:00

Here is a video of the bus that we are taking to Las Vegas today for "The Dream Match" fight between Oscar "The Golden Boy" DeLaHoya and Manny "Pacman" Pacquiao on December 6. It's gonna be the best 5 hour drive to Las Vegas ever. Unfortunately, Manny will not be on that bus and will ride in his usual Lincoln Navigator following the bus. He's been riding in his Navigator to Las Vegas for his fights for years and he doesn't want to change things because he's superstitious. I wouldn't want him to ride on the bus if he believes it's gonna change his luck. Either way...bus or Navigator...Oscar is gonna be lying on the canvas on fight night because Manny is gonna knock him out!

Me and The Funniest Comedian I've Ever Met

2008-11-30T00:39:00.000-08:00

While I was eating dinner with Manny Pacquiao and family at a local Thai Restaurant in Los Angeles...I got the opportunity to meet Jo Koy. If you haven't heard of him...you will soon. He regularly does stand up in Las Vegas where he is from. He's been in two seasons of BET's The Comic View, appeared in Comedy Central, did stand up at The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, and Chelsea Lately...and will soon film his own show "The Jo Koy Show." We watched some of his stand up at the restaurant's large projector screen while we were eating and I'm not going to lie to you....this guy is the funniest stand up guy I've ever seen. Here's a video of him at "The Tonight Show." I could not stop laughing. Food was coming out of my mouth.

He invited me to go watch his show at the Comedy and Magic Club in Hermosa Beach. Sat me in the front and did an hour and a half of stand up. I had a blast! I'm looking forward to seeing him again...and again. Go to www.jokoy.com for more information and videos about the funniest comedian I've ever heard.

Speak Up...Overcoming Stage Fright

2008-11-28T18:21:00.000-08:00

Your heart beats rapidly. Your palms sweat. Your voice squeaks. Public speaking ranks among the most dreaded prospects - even greater than most other fears. So how can you manage your fear and pull off your speech with finesse? Here are some strategies:

Be prepared. Preparation can be the perfect cure to calm your nerves. Know your topic better than your audience does. Research and rehearse.
Think positive thoughts to boost your confidence and don't feed into nervousness. Avoid negative thought patterns like, "My hands are shaking" or, "I feel my heart beating faster." Reprogram yur mind with thoughts that provide comfort and confidence.
Tape-record your speech. Listen to it and try it again after making improvements to your voice, enunciation or pace.
When you are at the podium, do not mistake blank faces for apathy or hostility. Some people do not smile when they are concentrating.
Eat a light meal beforehand, such as fruit or a salad. A fat-rich meal can channel your body's energy into the digestive process and slow down your mind.
Get a good night's sleep. Eight hours is recommended.
Take care of your voice. If you smoke, stop. And avoid smoky environments before your speech.
Dress appropriately for your audience and presentation.
Breathe deeply.
Keep a bottle of water and take small sips for vocal clarity.
Don't avoid it. Avoidance makes your fear worse, never allowing you to work through your fear or improve.

Source: The Everything Public Speaking Book: Deliver a Winning Presentation Every Time byScott S. Smith, Adams Media, 2008.

Other Helpful Training

Home-Field Advantage

2008-11-26T20:35:00.000-08:00

Warrick Dunn Lives By a Game Plan for Helping Others

Measure yourself as a human by the acts of service you do for others.
Use the opportunities you've been given in life to change the lives of other people.
Help those in need reach a goal that might be out of their reach.
keep continuity a focus and be reliable, both in your own life and for the people you help.
Pay attention to the details. It's the little things that make life special.
Don't forget to take time to enjoy your own life; it'll make you happier to help others.

Happy Thanksgiving From JakeBlogger

2008-11-26T20:18:00.000-08:00

TravelWithJake wishes you and your family a Happy Thanksgiving!!!

Look For Me on Pacquiao/DeLaHoya 24/7 on HBO

2008-11-25T18:36:00.000-08:00

I had the distinct honor and unique pleasure not only getting a chance to meet Manny Pacquiao but getting a chance to hang out with him and Team Pacquiao. At his house...in the gym while he's training...eating dinner at a Thai Restaurant. It's great to meet the team members and family of the greatest boxer in the world. Everyone knows he is the Tiger Woods of boxing. You can watch the first episode of the Pacquiao/DeLaHoya 24/7 on HBO. Click the picture below and see if you can find me in the episode hanging out with the most popular guy in the Philippines with the coolest, down to earth team, and awesome family.

Who I'd Like To Meet

2008-11-25T13:30:00.000-08:00

This is a true story about my quest to meet Manny Pacquiao. For those of you who don't know who Manny Pacquiao is...he is the most popular guy in the philippines and is boxing's Pound 4 Pound Best fighter in the world. In June 2001, was the first time I've seen Manny fight when he became the IBF SuperBantamweight champion. Ever Since then...I've watch all his fights. He is now the WBC Lightweight Champion and has a upcoming fight on December 6, 2008 against Oscar DeLaHoya titled "The Dream Match". In November 2006, after I was jumping up and down doing cartwheels and backflips and screaming like a girl when Manny defeated Eric Morales...I made a decision that I wanted to meet Manny. So I put his picture on my vision board and titled it "Who I'd Like To Meet". I wrote on my journal "Meet Manny Pacquiao" as one of the top 25 things I want to accomplish. For 2 years, when I was working at Nordstrom @ The Grove in Los Angeles, I was looking for him. I always knew that he lives across the street from where I work. There was a couple of times when he would visit Nordstrom and I missed him because I was off or I was at my lunch break. My co-workers would always tease me when I come back to work telling me that they saw Manny Pacquiao. One of them even took a picture with him and sent it to me. They know I'm a big fan so they like to tease me. The stock guys go to work early in the morning so they would see Manny running or shadow boxing at the park across the street. Even my girlfriend at the time sees Manny running when she drives to school early in the morning. They tease me about it all the time and I get mad about it. I told them and myself that I'm gonna meet him one day. I remember whenever the store have a meeting in the morning, I would get there earlier and wait at the park hoping I would get a chance to meet Manny. But it never happened.

But one day...I was working and had a customer name Robert. I asked him "Are you filipino?" He said yeah. He asked me the same question and I said, "Yeah, I'm a Manny Pacquiao fan." The rest became history. He happened to know another filipino boxer name Vernie Torres who's been boxing with Manny since he was 10 years old. On June 30, 2008...Vernie came to the store one day with Manny's uncle, Noel...and invited me to the house to meet Manny. It was the coolest thing ever. I went to Sports Chalet and bought a pair of boxing gloves...got my camera and I was ready to go. Here's the first picture I took with Manny Pacquiao. You bet I enlarged it and showed it to my co-workers who's been teasing me about seeing him.

My Vision Board of My Goals

2008-11-25T13:24:00.000-08:00

Here's a picture of my vision board. A vision board is a board full of things i want to be, do, or have...my goals basically. Check it out!

YTB e-Campus

2008-11-25T13:09:00.000-08:00

YTB Travel Network provides ongoing courses in the YTB e-Campus with training modules available for topics including a travel overview, group travel and lodging. The YTB program of studies is being designed by Marc Mancini Seminars and Consulting. Web site design and program fulfillment is being handled by TheAcademy.com, a San Antonio-based firm that specializes in travel-related training solutions. The company built and manages several of the industry's most prominent certification

YTB Travel Network First Class Training

2008-11-25T13:08:00.000-08:00

YTB Travel Network (YTBTN) offers online exclusive video travel training called "First Class Training (FCT)." This program is designed for YTBTN Affiliates to learn the basics of booking travel with YTB Travel Network. Included in the video presentations are training on technology, suppliers/vendors, sales and marketing, group travel, ethics and more. The training will be updated as new travel features are developed. Once a YTB Travel Network Affiliate successfully completes the First Class Training test, he or she becomes a Referring Travel Agent (RTA) and now earns 70% of the commissions paid to YTB Travel Network for travel booked on their site.

Putting Our Money Where Our Mouth Is

2008-11-25T13:05:00.000-08:00

$6,000 INCOME GUARANTEE

YTB GUARANTEES YOU WILL EARN $6,000 in commissions with the use of this dynamic magazine and dvd. If you don’t earn at least $6,000 in 12 months, YTB will make up the difference. That’s how confident YTB is that this magazine will work for you.

STEP 1. ENROLL IN THE SUCCESS FROM HOME MAGAZINE PROGRAM FOR 12 MONTHS:
At the beginning of every autoship month, 25 magazines (or more if you desire) will be shipped to your doorstep.

Magazine prices are as follows:
- Autoship program (Includes FREE shipping and handling)
  - 25 (or more) Magazines shipped on the 3rd of each month
  - $99.00 (per 25 magazines) will be charged to your credit card
    - 25 Magazines - $116.00 (includes shipping and handling)
    - 50 Magazines - $226.00 (includes shipping and handling)
    - 75 Magazines - $333.50 (includes shipping and handling)
    - 100 Magazines - $396.00 (includes shipping and handling)
- A total of 300 Magazines must be purchased in order to qualify for the $6,000 Guarantee.

STEP 2. COMPLETE 12 QUALIFYING MONTHS IN A 2 YEAR PERIOD.

DISTRIBUTE AT LEAST FIVE MAGAZINES WEEKLY, AT A MINIMUM OF 25 MAGAZINES PER MONTH:

A Qualifying Month occurs when you hand out 25 Magazines in a calendar month
- Your first Qualifying Month is considered complete when you record the 25th prospect in your YTB Back Office
  - The calendar month this occurs in is considered the Qualifying Month
  - There is no time limit for your First Qualifying Month
  - You then have 23 months to complete the remaining 11 Qualifying Months
- YTB's Memory Jogger is available to help you develop your list of prospects
- We also recommend that you provide the prospect with your contact information and the addresses of your www.ytbtravel.com and www.travelpropower.com website addresses
You must record the prospect’s information in the YTB Contact Management System
- Name
- Phone Number
- E-mail Address (Mailing Address if they don’t have an E-mail address)
- Follow up Appointment Date
You must follow up on all 25 prospects
- Update their status in your YTB Back Office until your Prospect either agrees to join YTB or tells you they are not interested
- Sample scripts and aids are available for free through your YTB Back Office
- The Follow up does not have to occur in the same month the Magazine was handed out, but the Follow up must be documented in your YTB Back Office

STEP 3. UPON COMPLETION OF 12 QUALIFYING MONTHS

Rep and RTA earnings (if participant is also an RTA) will be totaled
If total earnings during the qualification period are less than $6,000
- YTB will subtract your total earnings from $6,000 and write the Participant a check for the difference

YTB Ranked 26th in Travel Weekly 2007 Power List

2008-11-25T13:01:00.001-08:00

In this year's Travel Weekly Power List, YTB was ranked 26th among all travel agencies and advanced nine places over the previous year's ranking. YTB had the highest year-over-year percentage increase in travel booked of all companies on the list with an 83.3 percent improvement over the previous year's results.

The Travel Weekly Power List represents an effort to rank the nation's top travel companies. TheTravel Weekly Power List is based on total dollar volume of annual and ARC (Airlines Reporting Corporation) travel bookings for 2007. The ranking also considered information on travel-related subsidiaries and corporate structure. Other leading online leisure travel agencies named in this year's Power List include Travelocity, Orbitz, Priceline and Expedia.

"Our move up Travel Weekly's annual ranking of leading travel agencies speaks directly to the hard work that has been put in by the entire YTB family, " commented J. Kim Sorensen, CEO of YTB Travel Network. " We have worked diligently to increase our volume of travel by ensuring that our team has the tools needed to compete head-to-head with other industry giants, and our year-over-year improvement in the rankings is a testimony to this effort."

Sorensen Named in Travel Weekly's Top 33 People in Travel

2008-11-25T12:59:00.002-08:00

According to the magazine, Travel Weekly's list of the 33 most influential people in travel is not populated by folks with fancy titles who pull the right strings and make the industry behave as it should. It's not about that sort of influence. It's filled with people who had ideas that veered from the status quo and succeeded so spectacularly that the industry jumped out of its rut and followed. They're the ones who, when they set their own agendas, set ours as well. We didn't give people much credit for their great deeds of yesteryear. If they're on this list today, it's because they've influenced the course travel is taking in 2007, and we think they'll be just as influential in 2008.

"Kim Sorensen, CEO, YTB Travel Network - Sorensen went, in a matter of weeks, from a virtual unknown in the industry to its favorite target for vitriol (from traditional travel agents and some suppliers) or admiration (from his tens of thousands of referring agents and, behind closed doors, some suppliers). He has demonstrated grace under fire, admitting his organization is still maturing, and we suspect that he and YTB will be around for many years, forcing all parties to examine what constitutes a legitimate seller of travel and challenging suppliers to assess how, and with whom, they wish to do business." This text is an excerpt from page 44 of Travel Weekly's November 19, 2007 edition.

Please click on the link to read the story.
Travel Weekly's Top 33 People in Travel

Saturday Evening Post

2008-11-25T12:59:00.001-08:00

One of the most prestigious magazines in the country has chosen Coach to be on the cover! The Saturday Evening Post, the longest running continually published magazine in the history of the United States, has selected Coach to be on their 2008 special August edition. The magazine features a four-page article on Coach's life and gives you an inside look behind his vision to create 10,000 millionaires.

Referring Travel Agents Attend Funshine East Travel Trade Show

2008-11-25T12:58:00.000-08:00

YTB Travel Network held the most successful travel trade show in its history September 12-13. Held in Orlando, Florida, this two-day travel trade show included 39 travel vendors with 20 different travel seminars. One of the highlights of the event was a travel training session led by Dr. Marc Mancini with more than 1,500 people in attendance. Dr. Mancini, one of the travel industry's most highly respected and best-known speakers, educators and consultants, has been responsible for designing YTB's web-based travel training program.

Please click on the link to read the press release.
Referring Travel Agents Attend Funshine East Travel Trade Show
Source: PR Newswire (September 19, 2008 - 9:41 AM EDT)

Sorensen Participated in Travel Weekly Industry Panel

2008-11-25T12:57:00.000-08:00

YTB Travel Network President, J. Kim Sorensen, participated in Travel Weekly's Virtual Leisure Summit industry panel on October 20 and 21. Kim Sorensen was joined for this event to discuss the future of home agents by Van Anderson, co-president of America's Vacation Center, and Scott Koepf, president of the National Association of Career Travel Agents (NACTA). Travel Weekly described Mr. Sorensen as one of " three of the people who are defining the contemporary landscape for home agents..."

Please click on the link to read the press release.
Sorensen to Participate in Travel Weekly Industry Panel
Source: PR Newswire (October 6, 2008 - 8:00 AM EDT)

Inc. Magazine lists YTB in top 10 franchises in the Travel Industry

2008-11-25T12:56:00.000-08:00

In the Franchise section of Inc. Magazine's November 2008 issue, writer Candee Wilde included YTB in her top ten "franchises" in the travel industry with other known travel companies such as Carson Wagonlit Travel and Choice Hotels. Ms. Wilde's article is written in response to the question, "In these rocky financial times, is it wise to purchase a franchise in the travel industry? " Candee suggests that it is a wise decision to invest in a travel franchise opportunity because with today's economy, the travel industry is solid with few barriers to entry in terms of cost or experience. YTB's continued success in the sale of travel web sites is evidence of the wisdom in Ms. Wilde's recommendation.

YTB's Corporate Values

2008-11-25T12:54:00.000-08:00

It may seem old fashioned and simplistic in the Internet age, but our values as a company can be summed up with one sentence.

“If it ain’t true, don’t say it and if it ain’t right, don’t do it.”

YTB Bill of Rights
The “Bill of Rights” was created as a tool to provide protection for our field and give them the confidence they need and desire to build a successful business with YTB.

This document includes provisions to protect the income from travel web site sales and is the only such protection in the industry today.

The YTB Bill of Rights has been created to protect the residual income of the Independent Marketing Representative from their personal sales and from the sales of those on their team. Other online network marketing travel companies have tried to duplicate YTB’s guaranteed compensation plan but have been unable to fully replicate all of its features and benefits.

YTB Red Carpet Day

2008-11-25T12:49:00.000-08:00

Red Carpet Day at YTB is designed with our team in mind. It is an “open house” event. Come see our new international headquarters and meet our 300+ employees. Our field team may bring their friends and family to visit and tour our beautiful corporate office located in Wood River, Illinois. Visitors also hear the Founders of YTB tell their story and learn about the many benefits YTB has to offer.

Other Facts about YTB

YTB's $6,000 Guarantee Program

2008-11-25T12:31:00.000-08:00

In the U.S., YTB guarantees that you will earn $6,000 in marketing commissions using the Success from Home magazine. If you do not earn at least $6,000 in as little as 12 months by carefully following the program, YTB will make up the difference! That is how confident YTB is that this magazine will work for you. YTB works diligently to provide our team with the best marketing materials available. We are privileged to have a fine publication like Success from Home magazine available for purchase by our team. This outstanding media piece is not only informative and encouraging, but it is used on a regular basis as a sales tool to assist in the selling of travel web sites.

YTB's Affiliate Health Plan

2008-11-25T12:29:00.000-08:00

Because we care about our people, YTB offers many unique benefits to its Affiliates. YTB offers Affiliates in the U.S. the opportunity to purchase a limited medical insurance plan. There is a defined benefit and this information is available to the Affiliate prior to their purchase of the policy. This policy, issued by Standard Security of New York (licensed in all 50 states), is available to any Affiliates without pre-existing condition limitations. There are no medical questions to answer when enrolling.

This is another fine example of YTB’s commitment to our valued field team.

When looking at other companies, do they have a health plan?

YTB is a Member of the DSA

2008-11-25T12:21:00.000-08:00

YTB is proud to be a member of the Direct Selling Association, completing the one-year pending period required for full membership. During this time, YTB's marketing and business plans were reviewed to ensure compliance with all provisions of DSA's Code of Ethics, which includes provisions requiring truthful disclosure of product information regarding price, grade, quality, quantity and availability. The code expressly prohibits " pyramid schemes " and deceptive or unlawful consumer or recruiting practices, misrepresentation of earnings or sales potential, inventory loading and unreasonable entrance fees.

YTB is the only travel company accepted into their membership.

YTB's Triple Crown Bonus

2008-11-25T09:53:00.000-08:00

And just when you thought it couldn't get any better...It does! Click on the image to enlarge and find out how you can make $100,000...$250,000...and $500,000 in cash bonuses with YTB.

Click here to find out more information about YTB.

YTB is International

2008-11-25T08:17:00.000-08:00

YTB launched our business into Canada, Bermuda and the Bahamas in early 2008. This much anticipated expansion was exciting for YTB and those that were anxiously awaiting the opportunity to join our YTB family in these new locations. In determining new locations, details such as language, currency, potential viability, Internet access, discretionary income, compliance with current governmental regulations, etc. play a large role in our decision making. We must have these components resolved and in place prior to expanding our business into a particular country. Ultimately, YTB wants to have a presence in every country where it makes sense for us to conduct business.

Other Helpful YTB Facts

YTB's Income Disclosure

2008-11-25T08:14:00.000-08:00

YTB provides an income disclosure statement to provide transparency to our operations. If you are considering joining an online network marketing travel company, ask to see their income disclosure statement.

Click here for our full and complete income disclosure statement.

YTB is Publicly Traded

2008-11-25T08:13:00.001-08:00

YTB is a publicly traded company. We adhere to the disclosure requirements put forth by the Federal Securities Exchange Commission and conduct business with the highest standards and full disclosure. Our Board of Directors include many distinguished professionals, all experts in their fields. The conduct of our Founders and corporate leadership is impeccable, exhibiting the highest level of integrity.

Our competitors are shell corporations, aliases and “vapor.”
Ask to see an audited copy of their financials, if they even have any.

YTB Yesterday and Tomorrow

2008-11-25T08:04:00.000-08:00

A letter from Andy Cauthen
President, YTB International

YTB tomorrow begins with YTB yesterday. On the premise that the “Rep comes first,” YTB was launched by three visionaries in January 2001 in downtown Alton, Illinois. The product: the exciting world of travel. The vision: to be the leader in the industry!

The Founders, J. Lloyd “Coach” Tomer, Scott Tomer and Kim Sorensen, came from a successful marketing business in financial services. YTB was to be the “model” direct sales company, capitalizing on the growing travel industry and the explosion of Internet commerce.

The home office team grew to 23 employees by the end of 2004, with travel sales that year reaching $20 million.

In the summer of 2005, 35 employees moved to Edwardsville, Illinois, and set up shop with an attitude of “Customer Care.”

In August, the National Convention at the Adam’s Mark Hotel in downtown St. Louis had an attendance of 1,300 with the theme “YTB – Your Time to Build.” And it was. By the end of ’05, YTB grew to $75 million in travel sales and 55 team members at the home office.

The 2006 National Convention was moved to the America’s Center and attendance grew to 3,200. With a theme of “The Business of Champions,” YTB was batting 1,000 on a track of rapid growth.

With the corporate team exceeding 140 by the end of 2006, YTB relocated to its new headquarters inWood River, Illinois, after completing a 20,000 sq. ft. partial renovation of a former K-Mart building in just eleven weeks. Also that year, after $226 million in travel sales, YTB was named the 35th largest travel company in America according to Travel Weekly.

YTB had a banner year in 2007. The company was admitted to the Direct Selling Association, and J. Kim Sorensen was named one of the 33 most influential people in the travel industry by Travel Weekly. The August National Convention exploded to an attendance of 10,800 at the America’s Center. The theme, “Cleared for Takeoff,” was right on the money. As over 100 Directors in their Captains’ hats lined the giant stage under the full-size model of the jet liner, the roaring engines, music, smoke and lights ascended to the roar of the crowd!

In October, the largest gathering of travel agents ever occurred at YTB’s Funshine Travel Trade Show in Orlando with over 5,000 in attendance! We ended the year with travel sales of $414 million and a home office team of almost 300.

In 2008, YTB expanded into Canada, the Bahamas and Bermuda, and Travel Weekly named the top travel agencies in the US for 2007 with YTB at the number 26 position!

The August 2008 National Convention was held in the Edward Jones Dome, home of the St. Louis Rams, for an event fit for the record books. The theme: “Liberty and Travel for All.” The set: the second largest Statue of Liberty ever constructed. The purpose: to recognize, motivate and honor some 18,000 people in attendance and to celebrate freedom.

Click here to view a video of the Opening Ceremonies.

What lies ahead? We invite you to come join us and find out as we make history.

Great New Additions to the Travel Booking Engine!

2008-11-25T00:18:00.000-08:00

New Products Under the Extras Tab

Make holiday shopping a breeze by pointing your friends and family to the YTB booking engine! Gifts, gourmet food, home decor, clothing and accessories, health and wellness, financial services, and much more will all be coming soon to the extras tab. Travel Site Owners will earn 60% of the commissionable rate, which varies from 10% to 25% on products used every day! Just think - no more fighting the crowd at the shopping malls; find all you need from the comfort of your own home!

YTB Exclusive Destinations

The YTB Affiliate opportunity will become even more valuable with the release of YTB Exclusive Destinations. More details will be coming soon, but until then here's a quick highlight of what this great new addition will include.

Every month a unique familiarization trip will be announced that meets
YTB's stringent selection criteria, including superb quality, great margins and a location in high demand. Travel Site Owners will have the opportunity to conduct on-site inspections of the resort and destination amenities, be a part of a professional video shoot of the property and experience an inaugural launch of the destination on a first-come, first-served basis.
Approximately 30 days after the familiarization trip, the destination will be officially launched as a "YTB Exclusive Destination" on the booking engine as a featured property. One lucky person will win the Deals and Steals sweepstakes, which includes an all expenses paid trip for two to the featured location.
Additional destinations will also be announced each month that are in high demand. They will include short weekend getaways, four- to seven-day escapes, and longer more exotic destinations. Whether you or your customers are looking for a quick hop to Mexico, a five-day escape to the mountains or an eight-day African safari, it can all be found at an unbelievable price on the YTB travel booking engine.

Start clearing your calendars for your next vacation. Enormous travel deals and destinations are coming to a travel booking engine near you!

Little By Little to Succeed

2008-11-22T07:35:00.000-08:00

"The greatest things ever done on Earth

have been done little by little."
~ William Jennings Bryan

Travel Tips For Your Hotel

2008-11-19T08:47:00.000-08:00

TRAVEL TIPS

Tips For Your Hotel Stay

Make your hotel reservations in advance, especially if you are visiting a place in peak season.

Do not depend solely on the hotel's alarm/wake up call service. Carry your own little alarm clock to catch an early morning flight or that pre-dawn sightseeing trip.

When you check into your hotel, ask reception to give you a card with the hotel's name, address and telephone number. This will come in handy if you get lost or forget the name of your hotel.

Check before traveling to see if your hotel has a hair dryer, iron, coffee maker, etc. to avoid having to pack and travel with these often bulky items.

Other Helful Travel Tips

What Incredible Business Benefit Does The New DVD Represent?

2008-11-18T14:17:00.000-08:00

This DVD does two things, it helps someone who may be right for this business identify they are right for this business. It doesn't convince someone who it's not right for, which should never be our objective in the first place. So what are the incredible benefits?... You have heard, the "secret" is in the numbers of exposures, not the quality of exposures. It always has been, it's what has gotten everyone to where they are that are where you aspire to be on this side of the business and is the age old proven business approach in any business you can name me.

The video helps you leverage your time in clearing through those numbers with the confidence that the DVD will provide the information every bit as well as the Rep can. You won't have to wonder whether some individual will "get it" without the benefit of you taking the time of explaining it personally. It also helps everyone around the one most common mistake... talking too much. 6 exposures is now about a 12 minute total time commitment to effectively communicate and qualify their interest to determine whether that person is interested or not. We just further leveraged our time to income ratio.

What tool do we use for Travel Parties????.... Good Grief, this is a travel party dream!!!

This tool allows a Rep who is brand new to be able to operate at the same business sharing level as someone like me who has been in the business for a good while!
It takes away the number 2 fear we as a society have right behind death... talking in front of a group of people. Here is the biggest thing.... THE DVD NEVER HAS A BAD DAY and no matter who the prospect is, when they see us use this, they will say, "I can do that!"

Click here to see the DVD

They Are Not Saying "No" To You

2008-11-18T13:51:00.000-08:00

The quote below was passed on by a successful YTB RTA, Patty Durell, who lives her "life" with the attitude expressed in this quote...

"There are ups and downs in business just as there are in life. Don't be afraid to make mistakes. From mistakes we gain wisdom and confidence. Don't be afraid of people telling you "no". They are not saying "no" to YOU, they are saying "no" to starting their own business. Believe me, I've made tons of mistakes and heard tons of "no's". Looking back, I now realize that every mistake I made and every "no" I heard just made me stronger. Remember, the only bad mistake is the one you don't learn from."

This is the perfect time to share YTB with everyone. Think about this. What are the current economic conditions? There is no job security, the people with jobs aren't getting raises, there are more forclosures than ever before, people need health care. I could go on and on. Yet, people are still going on vacation or they long to go on vacation. What better way to help someone, than to share YTB with them. You might be the one who helps them save their house or you might be the one saving your house!

Warren Buffet, the second wealthiest man in the world, says "When everyone else is passive, I'm aggressive!!!"

Travel Tips on Family Flying

2008-11-12T08:07:00.000-08:00

TRAVEL TIPS

Family Travel - Flying

Reserve a nonstop flight. If that's not possible, go direct. Pay the extra money if you can afford it. Waking a sleeping baby/child should be avoided if possible.

Take a night flight. Hopefully, the children will sleep for most of the flight.

Buy a seat for your baby. It's worth the extra price. Children under the age of two, or weighing less than 40 pounds, should be securely fastened in child restraint seats when flying. Children have been seriously injured by turbulence.

Make sure your car seat has an FAA approved label. Then, confirm with the airline that you can use that particular safety seat on board the aircraft.

Select your seats ahead of time if possible. If it is just you and a child, book an aisle seat for easy access to bathrooms and walking areas.

Beware of bulkhead seats. While they do allow more leg room, there is not storage under the seats. This means more visits to the overhead bin. Also, immobile armrests prevent a tired child from leaning on mom or dad.

If you are going to be a single traveler with twins or more than one baby, check with the airlines ahead of time. Many airlines do not permit one adult to travel with two infants.

Bring backpacks. These are good storage for toys, water bottles and snacks that your kids help to select. The children can carry them too.

Always bring an extra outfit for your baby.

Get to the gate early. Take advantage of pre-boarding for passengers traveling with children.

Try to avoid any salty or dry snacks before the flight. These snacks lead to consuming liquids. Children who consume a lot of liquids tend to need to use the restrooms just as the "seat belt" sign is displayed.

Give your infant or toddler a bottle or sippie cup during takeoff and landing. This releases ear pressure. Older children can use gum or hard candy.

If your child becomes sick with a cold before your flight, contact the pediatrician before you leave. They can recommend an over the counter medicine that may help with the ear pressure of takeoff and landings.

Always bring more snacks, water, milk and formula than you think you need.

Allow your child to bring a blanket or toy they are attached to as carry-on luggage.

Always remain calm and keep a sense of humor for the children's sake.

If You Can Dream It, You Can Make It So

2008-11-07T18:41:00.000-08:00

Don't be afraid of the space between your dreams and reality.
If you can dream it, you can make it so.
~ Belva Davis

How To Get Your Friends And Family To Become A Customer

2008-11-06T21:59:00.000-08:00

If you own your own coffee shop and there is a Starbuck or Coffee Bean right across the street...where would your friends and family go to get coffee? They would go to your coffee shop. Because there is something called TRUST vs. RESPECT. They trust you as a friend or family and they respect you as a business owner.

Having your own travel business is no different.

Ask them to help you out
Ask them to give you a try

But...if you approach your friends and family like a salesman...you will be treated like a salesman. If you approach them like your friends and family...you will be treated like a friend or family. Here's a script that has been working for me that I want to share with you.

"______, I'm a travel agent and I'm trying to qualify for this position in my company so I need your help. If I can save you some money on airfares, hotels, cruises, rent a car, sports or concert tickets...because I'm your friend/family, you would be willing to help me out...wouldn't you?" You want to always ask them a question that will put them on the YES mode. Because if you ask someone a question like, "Can you help me?" You are giving them a choice to say yes or no. But if you say, "You'll help me out, right?" Of course they would say yes!

Other helpful Trainings

Tips for Luggage Identification

2008-11-06T21:41:00.000-08:00

TRAVEL TIPS

Tips for Luggage Identification:

Regarding luggage identification, it is strongly suggested you completely identify your luggage. It is really important to have identification tags on all your bags and carry-on bags. When a piece of luggage has a bag tag missing, an agent does not always have the time to completely research a city listing. Remember to cut off old luggage tags. If you want your luggage back quickly, leave your phone number for airline personnel to call and if you are not at home someone else may be able to advise them where to forward the bag. It is also suggested to use hard sided bags with no straps, hooks or belts, nor wheels. These items can get caught in turn or connecting conveyor belts which may jam up systems and tear up bags when they get caught. Also, you can put your name, address and phone number on the inside of the bag along with an itinerary of your travels. Name tags and bag tags on the outside can get torn off. Colorful or distinctive straps tied firmly around your luggage make it easier to spot on the baggage carousel at the other end.

What should I do if I'm taking a road trip?

2008-10-27T21:38:00.000-07:00

TRAVEL TIPS

What should I do if I'm taking a road trip?

Look at maps and plan your route.
Research the roads you'll take. You'll especially want to know if you'll be traveling through areas of major road construction.
Make estimates of travel times along the route, so you'll have an idea when you'll be at certain points on your trip. This will help you to plan rest and meal stops. It will also help you plan to avoid traveling through a major city or area of road construction during rush hour.
Get the car checked, especially the filters, belts, fluid levels and have the oil changed. Don't wait until the last minute, it may take time to get an appointment and parts may need to be ordered. You also want some time to drive around town and make sure that whatever they fixed stays fixed.
Check the condition of your wiper blades.
Check the operation of your turn signals, brake lights as well as the high and low beams.
Examine the tread on your tires.
Make sure your car is prepared for the weather it will encounter on your trip. You might need more antifreeze, snow tires or recharged air-conditioning.
Today, many cars have fancy wheels instead of hubcaps. These wheels usually have a lock to prevent them from being stolen. If you have a car with wheel locks, make sure you know where the key is stored (often with the jack). Otherwise, a flat tire will become a major problem since you won't be able to get the wheel off the car.
Get your car cleaned. You'll feel better in a clean car.
Pack an emergency kit in your car. Include motion sickness medication if anyone in your group suffers from it. Remove any items from the car that you won't need on your trip.
Prepare some on road entertainment for your trip. Include games and CDs of music and/or audio books.
Check your plates, registration and insurance information to make sure they are all valid. Be sure to place your insurance company's emergency contact number in your car.
Check with all the drivers in your party to make sure their driver's licenses haven't expired.
Check your insurance for expiration dates and coverage for your automobile.
Arrange for someone to start your other car, if you leave one home, during very cold or very hot weather.
Fill the car with gas before you pack the car so all the fumes won't bother your passengers. Check the fluid levels and tire pressure, your tire pressure will affect the ride and gas mileage you get on your trip.
Pack the car inside the garage, with the door down, so people driving by won't find out you're leaving.

What comes first...The Chick or The Puppy?

2008-10-24T23:35:00.000-07:00

"No Act of Kindness, no matter how small, is ever wasted." -Aesop

Can You Guess Who I Am?

2008-10-22T20:22:00.000-07:00

I am your constant companion.

I am your greatest helper, or your heaviest burden.

I will push you onward, or drag you down to failure.

I am at your constant command.

Half the things you do, you turn over to me, for I do them correctly and quickly.

I am easily managed but you must be firm with me. Show me how you want something done exactly and after a few lessons, I will do it automatically.

I will accept any repeated act or attitude as a traning experience.

I am the servant of all great people, and alas, all failures as well.

Those who are great, I have made great. Those who are failures, I have made failures.

I am not a machine, but I work with the precision of a machine plus the intelligence of a human. You may run me for profit or you may run me for ruin. It makes no difference to me.

Take me, train me, be firm with me and I will place the world at your feet. Be easy with me....and I will destroy you.

Who Am I?

I AM HABIT

Lessons from Geese

2008-10-22T19:46:00.000-07:00

1. As each bird flaps its wings, it creates an uplift for the bird following. By flying in a "V" formation the whole flock adds 71% greater flying range than if the bird flew alone.

LESSON: People who share a common direction and sense of community can get where they are going quicker and easier because they are traveling on the thrust of another.

2. Whenever a goose falls out of formation, it suddenly feels the drag and resistance of trying to fly alone and quickly gets back into formation to take advantage of the lifting power of the bird immediately in front.

LESSON: If we have as much sense as a goose, we will stay in formation with those who are headed where we want to go and be willing to accept their help as well as give ours to the others.

3. When the lead goose gets tired, it rotates back into the formation and another goose flies at the point position.

LESSON: It pays to take turns doing the hard tasks and sharing leadership. With people, as with geese, we are interdependent on each other.

4. The geese in formation honk from behind to encourage those up front to keep up their speed.

LESSON: We need to make sure our honking from behind is encouraging - and not something else.

5. When a goose gets sick or wounded or shot down, two geese drop out of formation and follow it down to help and protect it. They stay with it until it is able to fly again or dies. Then they launch out on their own, with another formation or catch up with the flock.

LESSON: If we have as much sense as the geese, we too, will stand by each other in difficult times, as well as when we are strong.

Travel Tips: Know Before You Go!

2008-10-22T19:25:00.000-07:00

TRAVEL TIPS

Planning Your Trip: Know Before You Go!
Travelers should familiarize themselves with their destinations, both to get the most enjoyment out of the visit and to avoid known dangers. Travelers should also be aware of restrictions on items that may be taken overseas and even on items that may be brought back into your country upon your return.

Customs and Import Restrictions
Customs Restrictions of Foreign Destinations – What You Cannot Take to Other Countries
Many countries have restrictions on what may be brought into the country, including food, pets, and medications. Even over-the-counter medications may be prohibited in some countries. Check with the embassies of your destination countries as to prohibited items. Foreign embassy and consulate contact information can also be found on the Country Specific Information for each country.

Taking a Pet Overseas
If you decide to take your pet with you when you go abroad, you should check with the embassies of the destination countries as to specific requirements that must be met before a pet may be brought into the country. Many countries have strict health, quarantine, agriculture, wildlife, and customs requirements and prohibitions. Foreign embassy and consulate contact information can also be found on the Country Specific Information for each country.

Note: In a crisis in which chartered or military aircraft or ships are used to evacuate civilians from a danger area, pets will not normally be permitted on the carrier. The pet owner will need to make other arrangements in order to remove the pet from the area. (Service animals, such as guide dogs, are not considered pets and will be accommodated if possible.)

Places to Receive Mail
If you will be abroad for an extended period, you may want to arrange for the delivery of your mail. Some banks and international credit card companies handle mail for customers at their overseas branches. In addition, post offices in many countries will hold mail for travelers under their General Delivery (Poste Restante) services. U.S. Embassies and Consulates do not handle private mail. Check with the embassy of your destination country to see if that will be possible there.

The Story of Four People

2008-10-22T08:46:00.000-07:00

This story is about four people:
There was an important job to be done and everybody was asked to do it. Everybody was sure that somebody would do it. Anybody could have done it, but nobody did it. Somebody got angry about that because it was everybody's job.

Everybody thought that anybody could do it, and nobody realized that everybody wouldn't do it. It ended up that everybody blamed somebody when actually nobody blamed anybody.

Does all this sound familiar to anybody?

"My Son Just Retired Me"

2008-10-22T07:15:00.000-07:00

What is your WHY? Why are you doing YTB? Jim Rohn said, "Your WHY is your definite purpose." What makes you get up in the morning? What makes you stay late at night? What is your reason for having your own travel company with YTB?

I'll tell you what mine is. My mom works at a Hyatt Hotel as a housekeeper. She works from 8 to 5 but she sets her alarm clock at 4:30 in the morning. The reason why she gets up that early is because she has an hour to get ready before she walks to catch the bus at 6. She gets to the hotel around 7:30 and change to her housekeeping uniform then off to cleaning rooms. When she gets off at 5...she takes the bus again so she doesn't get home until 6:30. She cooks, we eat, she watch a little bit of TV and goes to bed. She wakes up in the morning and do it all over again. She's been working there for 26 years now and she only gets 8 dollars and hour. I remember when she got excited for a .25 raise.

The reason why I'm telling you this story is because I want to go to her work, find her at one of the hotel room she's cleaning and have her put on this T-shirt I got her that reads "My son just retired me." Tell her to go up to her boss and say, "I QUIT." I take her home and my dad is waiting for her with luggages and a Limo in front of the house. I said, "Get dress, you and dad are going to Hawaii." When they are about to leave, I pull out my rubberband bank out of my pocket and say, "Wait, here's 5 grand dad and here's 5 grand mom. Go have fun. Just get me a t-shirt when you get back." Retiring my mom and sending my parents to the island they always wanted to go is great but to see the look on their faces...I want to remember it for the rest of my life. I can't wait to see it.

That's my WHY! One of them at least. Find out what your WHY is and engrave it in your heart. A lot of people wants to be successful but don't know how to. "If you know your WHY...the HOW to is easy." Whatever your WHY is...go after it...with a passion.

The Magic Word is Attitude

2008-10-22T06:33:00.000-07:00

It is our attitude at the beginning of a task which, more than anything else, will affect its successful outcome.
It is our attitude toward life which will determine life's attitude toward us.
We are interdependent. It is impossible to succeed without others. And it is our attitude toward others which will determine their attitude toward us.
Before a person can achieve the kind of life he/she wants, they must become that kind of individual;they must think, act, walk, and conduct themselves in all of their affairs, as would the person they wish to become.
The higher you go in any organization of value, the better will be the attitudes you will find. There is a good reason for this.
Your mind can only hold one thought at a time. Since there is nothing gained by holding negative thoughts, hold only successful and positive thoughts.
The deepest craving of human beings is to be needed, to feel important, to be loved, to be appreciated. Give these to them and they will return them to you.
Part of a good attitude is to look for the best in new ideas...and look for good ideas everywhere.
Don't waste your time broadcasting personal problems. It probably won't help you, and it cannot help others.
Don't talk about your health unless it is good...unless you are talking to a doctor.
Radiate the attitude of well-being, of confidence, of a person who knows exactly where they are going. You'll find good things will start to happen right away.
Lastly, for the next 30 days, treat everyone with whom you come in contact as the most important with whom you come in contact as the most important person on earth. If you will do this for thirty days, you will do it for the rest of your life.

Food and Drink Guide: Chicago

2008-10-21T07:42:00.000-07:00

For a city stuck in the middle of America, Chicago Brings it internationally, food-wise. Old school Greek, polish and Mexican restaurants abound and newer fancy-pants places throw strange and delicious fusion curveballs at you.

AVEC: This Near West Side (near downtown, west of the river, west of the Loop) restaurant plates succulent Mediterranean style dishes like fish piccata or chicken sausage in a neat, unpretentious manner, in portions big enough to share with a cute young lass. The decor, is Spartan and unfussy as well, but at the same time the place feels warm and inviting. 615 W. Randolph, (312) 377-2002.

MOTO: Upscale Asian cuisine; expect double-digit courses, and a meal that could go on for hours. Chef Cantu's menu changes based on what's the freshest in the market. If you want to knock her socks (and/or undergarments) off, this elegant, creative-Cantu is kind of a magician about the whole dining process is the spot. 945 W. Fulton Market, (312) 491-0058.

LOU MITCHELL'S: After a late night of Secret lounges and high rolling (we'll get to that in a minute), roll on downtown to Lou Mitchell's. Uncle Lou may be partying in the after life, but his spirit lives on in his eggs. 565 W. Jackson Blvd., (312) 939-3111

HOT DOUG'S: Stylistically, this Avondale hot dog hut is no Moto, but the otherworldly French fries cooked in duck fat are pretty creative, and the main reason you've gotta hit this place. 3324 N. California., (773) 279-9550

LULA: This Logan Square joint is vegetarian friendly, so if your lady is meat averse, show some class by taking her here. And Lula's once-a-week "farm" dinner on Monday nights needs to make it on to your calendar, stat. Not to miss: the braised spring lamb with homemade ricotta. 2537 N. Kedzie Blvd., (773) 489-9554

DRINKS

A great cheap drink lurks around every corner. The thing about chicago is that the young people now flock to all the old man bars. It is cool and sad at the same time. The trick is to find one that's not been totally taken over yet, like:

THE J&M TAP: The J&M Tap in Ukranian Village, or as the neighborhood folks call it, "The Secret Squirrel," is an inexpensive yet classy alternative to some of the more-frat-tastic Division Street-area bars overrun by overzealous folks in search of l'amour. Some pints here go for $1.75, and glasses Maker's Mark on Saturdays are $2.50. If you play your cards right, you'll see no one under 55, except saucy hipster gals from the 'hood. 957 N. Leavitt, no phone.

Videos

2008-10-16T16:52:00.000-07:00

Watch the latest videos on YouTube.com

YTB creates 'affiliates' label for agents making referrals only

2008-10-15T10:52:00.000-07:00

This is good news for anybody in the YTB business!

By Nadine Godwin
Travel Weekly, October 13, 2008

The YTB Travel Network, which has to date lumped its affiliated travel sellers into one category (referring travel agents, or RTAs), on Oct. 18 will roll out a two-tier approach that differentiates between those who actively sell travel and those who merely refer prospects to a website for self-booking.
     Kim Sorensen, president of the network, said YTB (No. 26 on Travel Weekly's 2008 Power List) would focus its training efforts on those who want to be more than referral agents, improving their skills and ultimately boosting productivity.
     For those who merely want to refer business to websites, he said, nothing will change except their title; they will be called affiliates.
     For those who want to handle bookings directly with suppliers and develop group business, YTB will offer an improved commission split: 70% of earned commissions, up from 60%, plus opportunities for bonuses. It will also require that they first complete a new educational program. They will still be called RTAs.
     YTB has offered its RTA certification program, a one-day classroom event, 'but it did not go far enough in the meat department,' Sorensen said. The new online training program, called First Class Training, 'increases the meat ... pretty dramatically,' he said. It will include a range of supplemental reference materials, all in one place, to enable the participants to delve deeply into a range of subjects, he said.
     Sorensen said YTB aimed to develop a third, higher tier for those who will drop the word 'referring' from their title and simply be called travel agents.
     Meanwhile, he said, 'It may look as if we are trying to fit in better [in the industry], and there is a little of that.'
     But, he said, 'I want a lot of well-trained people' to improve sales. In addition, he said, the plan will respond to suppliers' wish to be able to identify the active sellers among YTB associates.
     This plan, he said, helps the industry understand the YTB sales force, which already is really two groups, he said.
     He acknowledged industry criticism of YTB, but he said he believed YTB was performing a service by making it easier for prospects to get into the travel business, especially in a weakened economy where it will be tougher for newcomers to get fulltime jobs.
     He used a sports analogy, saying the reason the biggest schools generally have the best football teams is because they can choose the best players from a larger pool of candidates.
     Similarly, he said, at YTB, he wants quality, too, but 'we have to get the quantity first to get the quality at the end.' At the end of June, YTB counted 131,572 RTAs.
     In July, YTB advised the Securities and Exchange Commission it was considering replacing its RTA business model with a franchise system, possibly in 2009. Sorensen said YTB was still working on the franchise plan, but the company was 'probably several months away from that.'

source: Travel Weekly 10/13/2008 edition, page 9

Contact Me

2008-10-15T07:15:00.000-07:00

Tips For Staying Healthy

2008-10-14T20:48:00.000-07:00

TRAVEL TIPS

Tips For Staying Healthy

Here are some tips to help you stay healthy when you travel to other countries:

Before you go

Plan ahead. If you need any immunizations or vaccinations, see your doctor at least 6 weeks before you leave. Some vaccines don't reach the highest protection until about 6 weeks after you get the shots.
Have medical and dental check-ups before your trip, to be aware of problems and to find out about medicines you might need to take along.
Be prepared. Find out what your health insurance will pay for if you see a doctor while you're in another country. Carry enough of your regular medicines in their original containers, along with extra prescriptions for them. Also bring your eyewear prescriptions. Wear a medical information bracelet if needed. Take along a first-aid kit.

While you're traveling

Eat carefully if you're going to a country with an increased risk of traveler's diarrhea. Steaming-hot, well-cooked food is usually safest. Avoid eating foods from street vendors, unpasteurized dairy products and raw or uncooked seafood. Peel fruits yourself. Drink water from commercially-sealed bottles or drink carbonated beverages. Avoid ice. Use bottled water when you brush your teeth.
If you're going to a country with a risk of malaria, your doctor may prescribe preventive medicine for malaria. Remember to start taking your malaria medicine before you leave on your trip, take it during your travels and keep taking it for 4 weeks after you get home.
Avoid swimming and other water activities in freshwater lakes and streams. Schistosomiasis (also called bilharziasis) is a disease you might be exposed to in some African streams and lakes.
If you're going to a country with an increased risk of mosquito-borne disease, protect yourself against insects. Insect repellents that contain DEET work the best. Wear permethrin-coated clothing and use bed nets while you sleep.
Try to avoid taking overcrowded transportation. Try not to ride in vehicles without safety belts. Wear a helmet if you'll be riding a motorcycle. Try to avoid driving at night or in unfamiliar areas without local help and directions.

Tatoo City Chicago

2008-10-13T07:00:00.000-07:00

To my mind, Chicago is an unpretentious, art and architecture-forward, ethnic hodge-podge, whose stature has unfairly diminished with the boom of pretend cities like Houston, Denver and, er, um, Vancouver. The region's decade long embrace of math rock and Jerry Springer didn't do it any favors, either. But as this is written, the Chicago Cubs were in first place 100 years after their last title but just got swept in the first round of the playoff by my Los Angeles Dodgers, (Whoooooohooooooo! Think Blue!) Calatrava threatens topierce the skyline, usurping the Sears Tower by building the nation's tallest skyscraper the Spire; Devin Hester is still a Bear, and finally, there are beautiful young women, who maybe spend a bit too much time honing sketches of their next tattoo, around overy corner.

Are you in the 3% or the 97%?

2008-10-12T08:04:00.000-07:00

Every year 100 college Grads are tracked from the age of 25 to 65 to see where they end up, here are the consistent results.

Out of 100 college graduate, 1% becomes wealthy. Wealthy to me is when you are walking in the parking lot to your brand new Lamborghini and you notice that you dropped a couple of hundred dollar bills...you turned around and walked away cuz you're lazy to pick it up. That's wealthy. Most of us, when we see a quarter rolling on the floor, we immediately dive to pick it up. 2% becomes financially independent. Financially independent means you could stop working today and maintain the same level of lifestyle without any help from friends, family, or the government. That's the 3% class. So what happened to the rest of the 97% class? 5% are still working. I have friends that graduated from major universities but are still working at Nordstrom or even Starbucks. 36% of them end up dead so we can't really help them out. 56% is what I like to call the walking dead...dead broke.

What's interesting about this statistic is that out of the 3% that are wealthy and financially independent, 74% own their own business. When I was working at a mortgage company, the owner of the company was making more than $3 million a year and I thought to myself "I'm gonna marry the boss's daughter". But then I realized that the boss doesn't have a daughter...he had a son. So I said, "forget about it." I don't swing that way. I realize I have to be my own boss. That's when my friend Keawe introduced me to Your Travel Biz. You have the opportunity to get a chance to own your own travel company and start saving money traveling and make money doing it. 3 things impressed me when I saw this company for the first time.

Integrity: You want to make sure the company is in solid ground. YTB is 10 years old and is publicly traded. They are here to stay.
Simplicity: The Industry, company, and products sell itself. Everybody likes to travel and everybody likes to make money. It can't get any easier than that.
Residual Income: This is hotter than Megan Fox. Residual Income is getting paid while you're sleeping. When somebody purchase flight tickets, cruises, rent a car, hotels...etc...you get paid.

Find out how you can own your own Travel Company and start making money from home.

Donald Trump on Network Marketing

2008-10-10T20:11:00.000-07:00

Donald trump made an appearance on the David Letterman show. Dave asked him "What would you do if you lost everything and had to start over from scratch." Without hesitating...Trump said "I would find a good network marketing company and get to work." The audience, started to hoot and boo him. He looked out at the audience and responded, "That's why I'm sitting up here and you are all sitting out there!"

Dreams or Nightmares

2008-10-10T18:44:00.001-07:00

How many of you have big dreams? If you answered no...you have nightmares!

As a kid…I used to hang posters on my wall of a red Ferrari I wanted to own. I got pictures of Paris because I always wanted to visit the Eiffel Tower. I wanted to retire my parents. They've been working for so many years. And I wanted to travel the world. But as I was growing up…okay…I never grew up. As I was getting older and started working for jobs after jobs…I realize something. My income was sooo small (like me) that my DREAMS shrunk to match my INCOME.

So I started taking the posters down, rolling them up and putting them under my bed. Then I started hanging up posters of Phillies Blunt, Corona Beer Ads, and Bob Marley smoking pot. I started justifying my situation and say things like, "Forget the Ferrari…If I could just get a Fiero…just as long as it takes me from point A to point B…I'll be fine. You say Fiero fast enough…it sounds like Ferrari." Or "Forget Paris. Have you been to Vegas? They have Paris over there." Or "My parent's been working for 25 years now…another 15 years won't hurt." Or "Forget traveling the world…Have you been to Disneyland. I could go ride on The Small World." I started justifying my situation because I started to believe that my dreams won't become a reality.

YTB has changed that. YTB will help you increase your INCOME to match your DREAMS.

Find out how YTB can increase your INCOME to match your DREAMS by clicking below.

How to sponsor people who look up to you.

2008-10-10T17:30:00.000-07:00

Step One: Just call

I was just on my way out, and I had to stop and give you a call!

Hey I just met someone who is really high up in a travel company, he told me I might be able to let a couple of my friends start working with his company, I don't know a lot about it but I'm going to find out more about it tomorrow, I'm going to let you come with me, but you have got to dress in a suit, I'll be at your house at 6pm. Okay...I'll see you tomorrow.

What is it? We are going to find out tomorrow, trust me; Just bring your great attitude and I will pick you up at 6pm.

I'm not interested! Of course you're not interested if you where interested you would be calling me, I didn't ask if you where interested I asked if you had a suit, I'll be at your house at 6pm..be there!

Reminder: Never beg, just sort. Use phrases such as let me see what I can do, hopefully I can hook you up, and maybe I can let you come with me. If they are a little negative, just say, "I wouldn't want you to get your hopes up, I might not be able to hook you up anyways." or "You might not qualify." HAVE FUN!!!

How to sponsor people you look up to.

How to sponsor your peers.

How to sponsor your peers

2008-10-10T17:15:00.000-07:00

Step One: Pique Interest

I was just on my way out, and I had to stop and give you a call!

I just met a guy who is really high up in a travel company; hopefully I'm going to start working with him, if this is as good as I think we might be making some pretty good money. If I get in, I'll try to get you a position. I got to go; I will give you a call as soon as I find out more.

What is it? As soon as I find out, I'll call you.

Step Two: Pass (set an appointment)

Remember yesterday when I called you I said I was going to find out about that travel company. It is better than I thought, I might be able to introduce you to a guy I met high up in the company. Do you have a suit? He is in town tomorrow night, whatever you have going on, cancel. I'll pick you up at 6pm. Just bring your great attitude.

How to sponsor people you look up to.

How to sponsor people who look up to you.

How to sponsor people you look up to (sponsor up)

2008-10-10T08:01:00.000-07:00

Step One: Pique Interest

I was just on my way out, and I had to stop and give you a call! You know how I have a lot of respect for you. I have just met someone who reminds me exactly of you, he is just like you except he is making a ton of money with a travel company. I was thinking if you and him got together you guys could make a lot of money together. If you would be interested I might be able to introduce you to him. I have to go right now, but I'll give you a call to see if he can meet with you.

What is it? I don't really know much but this guy is making a ton of money, I'll see what I can do, I'll call you.

Step Two: Pass

Remember yesterday when I called I told you about that guy I met who is making a fortune. I told him about you; he said he might be willing to meet you and show you what he was doing. What would be better for you...Tuesday night or Wednesday night? I'm sure you will dress in business attire amd bring your great attitude. I will pick you up at 6pm. I'll see you then.

How to sponsor your peers.

How to sponsor people who look up to you.

Be the B.E.A.R.

2008-10-08T17:48:00.001-07:00

Whatever business you are in whether you are in Network Marketing, a business owner, or doing internet marketing…you must have the B.E.A.R. philosophy.

B stands for Belief. It all starts from here. You got to believe in the industry you're in. You got to believe in the company. You got to believe in the products you're selling and the services the company is providing. And most importantly….you got to BELIEVE IN YOURSELF. When others are telling you that you can't do it…Believe you can do it. When others are laughing…Believe you can do it. When others are telling you No you can't…Say YES I CAN! You've been hearing NO your whole life. I'm telling you….YES…YES…YES. When you believe…you will get excited. E stands for excitement. You will be so excited at what you're doing that you'll be sleeping at night with your eyes open. You're excitement will turn into action. A stands for Action. You'll start doing more and selling more. People are going to come up to you and find out what you're doing. You'll be the Energizer Bunny…You'll keep going and going. When you take action…guess what? You will get results. R stands for Results. The best paycheck is an unexpected one. You'll become more and have more. When you get results…you'll believe more…then you'll get more excited and take more action. Then you'll get more results and it'll just cycle. But it all starts with BELIEF. It's not the R.B.E.A. philosophy. You don't get results first. It's the B.E.A.R. philosophy. So start believing!

"97...98...99...100."

2008-10-08T16:29:00.000-07:00

This story is from The World's Leading Motivational Speaker...Les Brown

"A friend of mine was walking down the street in the city of New York. As he was walking...a couple of people were soliciting him for their business. One guy said, "Excuse me sir...can I shine your shoes?" The man said, "Sorry, I'm busy...I'm in a rush...I don't have time." And kept on walking. Another guy said, "Excuse me sir...your shoes looks dusty...can I shine them?" The man said, "No I'm busy...I'm in a rush...I don't have time." And kept on walking. As he was walking a young man approach him and counted "97...98...99...100" "Excuse me sir? Today is my birthday and I thank God...a brand new year of life. Every hundredth person that passes by my shoe shine stand, I offer that person a free shoe shine. Would you give me that honor?" The man said, "Why sure." So he sat on the shoe shine stand and the young man shined his shoes diligently. After he was finished. The man got up and asked, "By the way...how much do you charge for a shoe shine?" The young man said, "Only $5 sir." The man said, getting money from his pocket, "It is your birthday...here's $10...keep the change." As he walk away...the young man turned around and counted "97...98...99...100"

When I first heard this story...I was laughing my butt off.

If you want to make it in any type of business today...You have to be creative. Find out what successful people are doing and emulate it. Find out what they're not doing and don't do it.

Tips for renting a car

2008-10-08T16:09:00.000-07:00

TRAVEL TIPS

How are car rentals outside the United States different from those here?

Every country has its own rules, but here’s a list of some items you may want to consider:

You may need an international driver’s license or permit in addition to your U.S. driver’s license.

Some countries charge a fee for a permit that allows you to drive on their roads.

The rental contract may not be in English. See if they have rental contracts or at least an explanation of contract terms available in English. Also, see if they will have any English speaking counter personnel available to assist you when you arrive.

Your personal insurance or credit card coverage may not be valid or acceptable to the rental company, so you may need to purchase extra coverage.

Most rental car fleets outside the U.S. are made up of much smaller cars.

Many foreign rental fleets will have a large percentage of manual transmission automobiles.

A car with air-conditioning may be considered an upgrade in some foreign fleets.

Road signage may be in unfamiliar languages and the colors and shapes of those signs may be different than those in the U.S.

The direction of the lanes may be opposite of those in the U.S.

Road conditions may be considerably worse than those found in the U.S.

Gauges may only read in the metric system, 100 kilometers = 60 miles.

Gasoline is usually considerably more expensive and is often sold by the liter, 3.78 liters =
1 gallon.

Many countries have even higher taxes on rental cars than those in the U.S.

Fuel prices are often considerably higher than those found in the U.S.

Some countries have both a minimum and a maximum rental age.

If you are looking for the best place to rent a car at an affordable price....click here

Blogging for Dollars!

2008-10-04T07:55:00.001-07:00

I found an article from slate.com on Yahoo's front page about how people are making a tremendous amount of money blogging. If you are starting out a blog website...you definitely want to read this.

Last week, the blog search engine Technorati released its 2008 State of the Blogosphere report with the slightly menacing promise to "deliver even deeper insights into the blogging mind." Bloggers create 900,000 blog posts a day worldwide, and some of them are actually making money. Blogs with 100,000 or more unique visitors a month earn an average of $75,000 annually—though that figure is skewed by the small percentage of blogs that make more than $200,000 a year. The estimates from a 2007 Business Week article are older but juicier: The LOLcat empire rakes in $5,600 per month; Overheard in New York gets $8,100 per month; and Perez Hilton, gossip king, scoops up $111,000 per month.

With this kind of cash sloshing around, one wonders: What does it take to live the dream—to write what I know, and then watch the money flow?

From the perspective of someone who doesn't blog, blogging seems attractive. Bloggers such as Jason Kottke ($5,300/month) and the Fug girls ($6,240/month) pursue what naturally interests them without many constraints on length or style. While those two are genuine stars of the blogging world, there are plenty of smaller, personal blogs that bring in decent change with the Amazon Associates program (you receive a referral fee if someone buys a book, CD, etc. via a link from your blog) and search ads from Google. (The big G analyzes your site and places relevant ads; you get paid if people click on them.) Google-ad profiteering is an entire universe in and of itself—one blogger by the name of Shoemoney became famous (well, Digg-famous) when he posted a picture of himself with a check from Google for $132,994.97 for one month of clicks.

Read full article

If I can do it...you can do it!

2008-10-04T07:43:00.000-07:00

I was online checking out some internet marketing sites and I came across 2 websites that are very interesting. Ashley Qualls started www.whateverlife.com when she was 15 and Carl Ocab started www.carlocab.com when he was 13. Their internet marketing websites are awesome! Whateverlife.com is a social marketing website for young girls where they can get layouts for their websites while Carlocab.com is a website where he teaches you how to make money through internet marketing. If you take a look at their websites…both are doing extremely well. Ashley is getting a tremendous amount of traffic to her site and Carl is #1 on Google search results for "Make money online." And they are young kids! I bet they are making more money than most adults do too. I understand that they have a lot of time in their hands. They don't have to go to work. They don't have to chase their kids running around. They're not in a marriage or any couple relationship (Let's hope they're not). They just go home from school and start working on their sites without worrying about paying for bills, doing laundry, or cooking dinner. But it's not how much time you have…it's what you do with the time that you have.

That's why when you combine your own travel company with internet marketing...you set your own hours and your own schedule so the time is so flexible, it doesn't go against to what you are doing right now. It doesn't matter how much time you have whether you have 2 hours a week or 2 hours a day...we have all the tools you need to become successful. Click here for more information.

Harvard University on Network Marketing

2008-10-01T17:06:00.000-07:00

Network Marketing is being taught at more than 200 colleges, including Harvard Business School. After extensive research into the network marketing industry, Harvard Business School developed three criteria that a network marketing company must have in order to make it a most desirable opportunity.

They are:

1. The company must be at least 18 months old - 90% of all network marketing companies that fail, do so in the first 18 months.

2. The company must have a product that is both unique and highly consumable. Being unique in this case means the company has an exclusive product that can only be purchased from the company’s distributors. Having a product that is highly consumable means repeated sales, thereby guaranteeing customer loyalty versus a one-time sale and having to source new customers.

3. It needs to be a ‘ground floor’ opportunity. Harvard Business School suggests that in order for the opportunity to qualify as ‘ground floor’, the number of existing distributorships should be less than of 1% of the population in the c ountry where the network company is operating. In the United States, this figure is equal to 1.5 million people. Harvard Business School also states that if there are less than 500,000 distributors, this presents a cutting opportunity. If the company has less than 100,000 distributors, Harvard Business School considers it to be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

Harvard Business School states there are four distinct stages of growth in a network marketing company.

They are:

1. Foundation - This usually lasts approximately six months and is when a company develops its products and markets.

2. Concentration - This period lasts approximately 2 to 4 years from when the distributor network is started.

3. Momentum - This period lasts from 2 to 4 years also. This is when the company experiences phenomenal growth and distributorships’ businesses explode. It is during this period that the company virtually sweeps the nation. When a company’s sales reach $50 million, it reaches what is called ‘critical mass’ (sales go vertically right off the graph). Also, approximately 2/3 of the company’s growth of new distributors occurs during this period of time.

For example, when Herbalife reached $50 million, sales jumped to $151 million in only 12=2 0months and they added over 800,000 new distributors to their organization. Say an organization is producing a bonus cheque of $1000 per month. When the company reaches critical mass, distributors automatically experience a ten-fold increase in their earnings. In other words, $1000 per month becomes $10,000 per month. This is the reason for getting involved on the ground floor, so you will experience the benefits of explosive growth.

4. Stability - This period lasts for the life of the company. A network marketing company that is dedicated to the success of its distributors will experience longevity, thereby insuring that an active distributorship will realize continued earnings and growth.

Do you realize that you could be at the right place, at the right time with YTB?

Traveling With Baby

2008-09-25T07:37:00.000-07:00

Travel Tips: Traveling with Baby

Choose carefully what you decide to bring to minimize baggage. You need something to transport baby, a place for baby to sleep and a car seat.

Remember the small things like outlet covers to childproof a hotel room. Garbage-bag ties can double to gather drapes and cords.

Carry on enough diapers, wipes and snacks for each child. Don’t forget extra outfits for babies and extra t-shirts for the adults!

Try to book direct flights with no layovers. Lugging around all the baby gear is time consuming and tiring. If you must have a layover, try to give yourself enough time between flights.

Bring cheap strollers for easy folding at security conveyor belts. Cheap umbrella strollers are also a good option as there is less to lose if something happens to it.

Try packing fun, kid-distracting items, like DVDs, CDs and books (both old and new). Simple things like an old purse full of random items can keep a toddler busy for hours.

Always pack a small first aid kit with necessities like a bulb syringe, thermometer and infant pain relief. Always keep your pediatrician’s phone number in your cell phone or wallet for easy access in case of an emergency.

Try going out to nice, big lunches, as opposed to fancy dinners. Lunch time is usually less crowded and the food is prepared faster, giving you less time out with a tired, cranky baby.

Remember, it’s a vacation! Try going with the flow and laughing it off. Relax and have some fun!