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© ReneS

A study conducted by the American Society for Travel Agents revealed that the profits for the travel industry will be stronger in 2011 and 2012. The AS Travel Agents survey showed that its members can expect a profit level on par with the 2008 profit levels. Travel agents will welcome this news happily as the recession wave that engulfed the country a few months back has not been good for business. Other factors like the devastation caused by Hurricane Irene have also dealt a blow for travel agents in America. The American Society for Travel Agents was conducted in the summer and the member travel agents were asked about their sales per travel segment, transaction volume, expected profits and revenue.

© planegeezer

Speakers at the Great GM debate lashed out at the 'all-inclusive' hotel travel packages, saying that it affects the local trade in a bad way. The debaters spoke for the entire Middle Eastern hospitality industry, saying that these travel packages were a 'virus'. Many representatives of the hospitality industry were very critical of the concept, explaining that these 'all-inclusive' travel packages make sure that customers pay little attention to the local market and products, which are, in truth what actual tourism is all about. Representatives said that although these travel packages stimulate the profits of the hotels that offer them, they are unlikely to boost the local economy. Many famous Middle East hospitality companies such as Emaar Hospitality, Seven Tides Hospitality etc hit out at the concept of these travel packages.

© vl8189

An author I know calls Europe a safe haven with respect to violent crimes. However the creative and petty scams is what Europe is generally known for. Especially if you are and American traveling all alone in Europe, pickpockets and con artists will target you, not because these crooks are mean , but because they are smart and witty.
Obviously, when you are and American you are bound to have all the good stuff in your bag, unlike the Asians who travel to Europe to buy the good stuff. So when you have these good stuffs in your money belt with you and you are spell bound by the scenic beauty of Europe- Rome, you are appreciating the beautiful sculptures, a local might distract you with the pretext of helping you wipe a bird dropping on your shirt and his accomplice might swipe off your bag. Do be aware of the pitfalls while traveling, but also do not forget to enjoy and have fun. But if you do get scammed, don't forget that it will make a good story when you get back home.