Exciting News in our Adelman Family!

 

We’re thrilled to announce and extend our warmest congratulations to Melinda Kirkham on her well-deserved promotion to Vice President of Corporate Sales and Client Success!

Melinda has been an invaluable member of our team, consistently demonstrating exceptional leadership, dedication, and a relentless commitment to driving success for our clients. Her strategic vision, innovative mindset, and unwavering work ethic have truly set her apart.

As Melinda steps into this new role, we have no doubt that she will continue to inspire and lead our Corporate Sales and Client Success teams to new heights. Please join us in congratulating Melinda on this significant achievement!

Top Reasons to Cruise Alaska with Holland America Line

Fall in love with jaw-dropping views as you cruise along icy-blue glaciers. Watch wildlife bask in the beauty of the Last Frontier. Explore the treasured terrain of the Great Land. With Holland America Line, you’ll uncover the best of Alaska and the Yukon.

Here are the top reasons to cruise Alaska with us: 

    

Experience More Glaciers Up Close
With Holland America Line, you’ll see more glaciers in Alaska than any other cruise line. Whether you’re looking to explore them by sea, land or air, we can take you there. Get a close-up view from our perfectly sized ships.

Trek across a glacier on a guided hike. Take off on a thrilling tour to soak up aerial views of icy giants. Whether you’re sailing along the shore or embarking on an unforgettable shore excursion, you’ll experience the best of Alaska’s glaciers.

Enjoy Breathtaking Wildlife Moments
It’s a whale. It’s a sea lion. It’s the Big Five! Holland America Line now offers more ways to see Alaska wildlife than any other cruise line, bringing you closer to the wondrous creatures of the Last Frontier. With the guidance of onboard wildlife experts and National Park Service Rangers, you could see whales breaching or bubble-net feeding, sea lions chilling on rocks, otters gliding through icy waters, bears hunting for salmon along the shore and more. You could even see Alaska’s Big Five on a cruisetour.

Treasure More Time On Land
Is time your greatest treasure? Relish our immersive land-and-sea cruisetours, featuring more time in Alaska and the Yukon, including up to three nights each in our Denali wilderness lodge and the Yukon – a Holland America Line exclusive.

Immerse Yourself in an Alaska Up Close™ Experience
Savor the tastes, tales and terrain of Alaska with our exclusive Alaska Up Close™ programming. With more than 75 years in Alaska and the most sailings through Glacier Bay, we make it easy to immerse yourself in the wonders of the Last Frontier, from insightful expert-led presentations to locally sourced and inspired cuisine with fresh ingredients.

Enjoy perfectly sized ships that are small enough to enable close-up views of glaciers, wildlife and wilderness, yet large enough to offer incredible dining, entertainment and onboard activities.

Taste Alaska with Local, Fresh Sustainable Seafood
Though sailing to the Great Land with Holland America Line includes spectacular glacier and wildlife views, it also offers something unique – the mouthwatering taste of fresh, certified and sustainable Alaska seafood. We’re proud to have earned the Responsible Fisheries Management (RFM) certification, making us the first and only cruise line to achieve this distinguished credential whereby all our ships cruising to the Last Frontier serve only fresh, sustainable and traceable Alaska seafood.

Tasting Alaska’s fresh and flavorful seafood on our ships has long been part of our immersive culinary experiences. If catching a big one is at the top of your list during an Alaska cruise, consider reeling in a catch on select fishing-focused shore excursions and savor every bite on board through our Savor My Catch program. Holland America Line’s expert chefs prepare and serve it in a true ocean-to-table experience.

 

Check out Delta Vacations’ Black Friday promotion—running the entire month of November. 

We bet you have unused PTO days.

Delta Vacations’ Black Friday promotion lasts the entire month of November and is the best way to save on trips to select tropical destinations including Punta Cana, Dominican Republic; Playa del Carmen and Los Cabos, Mexico; and Kaui, Hawaii. 

Did you know?

Delta SkyMiles members can pay for Delta Vacations bookings using miles—and you’ll earn miles along the way, too!  Pay for just a little, or pay for everything—flights, stays, rides, activities and more!

Delta Vacations has getaways to over 300 destinations around the globe.  And, with no blackout dates or minimum/maximum miles needed, there has never been a better time to travel!

Contact your Adelman Vacations advisor at 800-749-7116 or 417-888-4488 for details or visit our website at www.adelmanvacations.com. Our experienced vacation advisors will help you plan your next great travel adventure!

What to know when traveling internationally for business

Whether you’re a seasoned business traveler, or taking your first international business trip, there are some top things you should know to make your travels pleasurable and successful. 

 

Review a few of our top tips that will help best navigate your next international business trip.

Understand Travel Requirements and Restrictions

Travel rules and regulations can catch even the most seasoned travelers off guard. Entry requirements and restrictions can change abruptly, making thorough research imperative. It’s crucial to know what documentation is required for each destination, including layovers. Even if you’ve traveled to a country previously, keep in mind that requirements can evolve. Also, check the validity of your passport and visa requirements. 

Business Visa vs. Tourist Visa

Differentiate between a business and a tourist visa. Make sure you apply for the appropriate kind of visa for the purpose of your trip. A business visa often allows for more extended stays and business-related activities. This is one of the top business travel tips that help you to have a comfortable trip.

Vaccination and Immunization

Many countries require specific vaccinations or immunizations before entry. Stay informed about the health precautions necessary for your destination and get vaccinated well in advance.

Travel Insurance

Invest in comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and lost luggage. It’s a safeguard against unexpected setbacks during your travels.

Exchange Rates

Stay updated on exchange rates and the local currency of your destination. Knowing the exchange rate can help you manage your finances efficiently. Inform your bank about your travel plans to avoid potential issues with your credit or debit cards while abroad. 

Cultural Etiquette

Research and understand the cultural norms and etiquette of the country you’re visiting. Being culturally sensitive can greatly impact your business relationships. Consider language barriers and invest in translation tools or services if necessary. Even basic knowledge of local phrases can go a long way in building rapport.

Mobile Connectivity

Ensure your mobile phone is set up for international roaming or purchase a local SIM card to stay connected during your trip. Use communication tools like Skype or Zoom for business meetings and conference calls back home.

International business travel is an exciting adventure that provides many opportunities for growth and achievement.  By proactively addressing visa requirements, prioritizing health and safety, managing finances astutely, showing cultural sensitivity, arranging accommodations and transportation efficiently, and staying connected, you can significantly enhance your business travel experience.

Rated Platinum: BCD remains sustainable supplier of choice

 

For the fourth consecutive year, BCD Travel, Adelman Travel’s parent company, has received a Platinum rating from EcoVadis, the world’s largest and most trusted provider of business sustainability ratings. With this Platinum rating, BCD maintains their position in the top 1% of the 100,000+ companies assessed by EcoVadis. As part of the assessment, BCD has been rated as ‘Advanced’ in EcoVadis’ Carbon Action Module. The module is a comprehensive carbon management solution integrated with EcoVadis ratings to engage suppliers and drive decarbonization across the supply chain.

 

Click to read more:

https://www.bcdtravel.com/blog/rated-platinum-bcd-remains-sustainable-supplier-of-choice/

EU Confirms Another ETIAS Delay to Spring 2025

The European Union has confirmed that the launch of the new European Travel Information and Authorization System for non-EU visitors has been further delayed until Spring 2025.

The new date marks a delay in the rollout of the new European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS), which had previously been expected to go into effect in 2024.

The new rules dictate that travelers from more than 60 visa-free countries – including the U.S., Canada, and the U.K., will need to get an ETIAS authorization to enter Europe.

Click to read more published by BTN Europe News – https://www.businesstravelnewseurope.com/Management/EU-confirms-ETIAS-delay-to-spring-2025

American Airlines Sunsetting Business Extra (December 15, 2023)

American Airlines has announced their Business Extra program is ending December 15, 2023. Effective October 16, 2023, no new enrollments will be accepted.

A new program is being launched called AAdvantage Business. The new program will require you to register.

Business Extra clients should have received a communication from AA on October 16, 2023, explaining next steps and more details.

Please note the following important details as we understand them from AA:

  • Points under the old Business Extra program will be accrued until December 15, 2023
  • Note: once enrolled in the new program, Business Extra points accrual will stop
  • You must meet Business Extra® threshold requirements by December 15, 2023 to unlock Business Extra® points. To check status, you will need to log in to your Business Extra® account.
  • 3 active travelers and $5,000 in qualifying travel spend for the previous 12-month period by December 15, 2023
  • After December 15, 2023, remaining Business Extra® points can only be converted to AAdvantage® miles or donated to charity. 
  • The Business Extra® website, program functionality and all Business Extra® points will terminate on January 31, 2024.
  • Starting October 16, 2023 – all questions related to Business Extra® will be answered via business.extra@aa.com. The former phone number has been discontinued.

IMPORTANT POINTS TO CONSIDER

  • The new program will require a direct booking with AA in order to accrue points.
  • Adelman Travel will not be able to report or service any bookings under this program. All Adelman customers would need to contact AA for assistance.

Please reference this link for the Business Extra FAQs: https://www.businessextra.com/faqs.htm

Please contact your Adelman Client Success Manager or Advisor for any questions.

Delte’s Business Rewards Programs Scheduled to Change

 

 

New Delta SkyMiles for Business Program coming this fall Beginning this fall, Delta Air Lines’ SkyBonus program is becoming SkyMiles for Business. SkyMiles for Business is a travel rewards program built for small and medium-sized enterprises. SkyMiles for Business turns your business travel budget into rewards by converting the dollars your company spends on eligible flights with Delta, Air France, KLM, Aeromexico, Virgin Atlantic or any of our codeshare partners into miles. SkyMiles for Business rewards your company with miles for dollars spent on business travel by verifiable employees for published fares.    

Click the link to learn about SkyMiles for Business: https://business.delta.com/content/b2b/en/home/smallmediumenterprise.html

In order to take advantage of the new business rewards program, current SkyBonus members must Opt-in for Delta’s SkyMiles for Business by December 1, 2023.

Click here to opt-in When opting-in you must provide your company SkyBonus ID and Admin Email. By selecting “Opt In,” you will agree to convert your SkyBonus account to a SkyMiles for Business account as of the conversion date.

Any SkyBonus points in your account at the time of conversion will be converted to miles in the SkyMiles Program.

Please reference this link for the SkyMiles FAQs: https://skybonus.delta.com/content/skybonus/corporate/us/en/about/faqs.html

Explore Amalfi and Pompeii with Adelman Discoveries 

 

Join Adelman Discoveries in 2024 as we travel to the southwest of Italy to explore the Amalfi CoastOur expert travel planners have designed a one-of-a-kind itinerary and have arranged every detail of the trip from transportation and hotels to meals and sightseeing.   

 

The Amalfi Coast, which stretches from Positano in the west to Vietri sul Mare in the east, is a popular holiday destination with rugged cliffs, beautiful beaches and picturesque fishing villagesAdelman Discoveries’ tour of the Amalfi Coast begins in the coastal town of Sorrento, perched atop cliffs that overlook its marinas in the Bay of NaplesSorrento, a bustling city with a wonderful climate, is known for its traditional Italian architecture, fashionable shops and profusion of bars, restaurants and sidewalk cafesThe town is also considered the limoncello capital of the world, and Adelman Discoveries’ tour includes a limoncello seminar to learn the tradition and secrets behind this famed liqueur’s production, as well as a class with a master pasta maker to learn the art of Italian pasta making. 

 

The tour includes a visit to Ravello, a dramatic hillside town famous for its Villa Rufolo, which was built in the 13th century by a wealthy merchant familyThe Villa houses works of art and offers beautiful gardens, centuries of history, and legends about hidden treasuresThe tour also stops in Amalfi to take in the Amalfi Cathedral and the Cloister of Paradise, which was constructed in 1266 and exhibits a Moorish-style architectureGuests can stroll the orange and lime tree lined streets and sample local pastries, espresso Napoletano and authentic gelato.   

 

Positano, the next stop on the itinerary, is a vertical city, which was built up the cliffs and appears to rise from seaLegend says it was founded by a group from Paestum, who fled there to avoid the attacks of the Saracens. On display in the center of town is the brightly colored “maiolica” dome of Santa Maria Assunta, the main church of Positano. 

 

The trip to the Amalfi Coast would not be complete without a trip to Pompeii, one of Italy’s most famous and unique archeological sites. Frozen in time when it was covered by volcanic ash during the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in A.D. 79., Pompeii is now a World Heritage site which offers a glimpse back in time to life during the height of the Roman Empire.  

The itinerary also offers an optional guided trip to Capri, which is reached by hydrofoilThis enchanted island on the south side of the Gulf of Naples has been celebrated for its natural beauty since the time of the Roman Republic.  The tour includes a trip on the funicolareto admire the island’s views and a walking tour of the historic city center Capri also boasts the Gardens of Augustus, a retreat into a natural paradise, with a splendid view of the “Faraglioni,” nature’s rock guardians of Capri An optional day in Naples offers guests time to explore the rich history and art of this region, shop, and sample pizza at a local Neapolitan pizzeria.   

 

To learn more about this tour and other Adelman Discoveries offerings, call 800-339-7781 or visit www.adelmandiscoveries.com.   

Is your Company Ready for Concur’s 2-factor Authentication and Password updates?

As your TMC partner, we want to proactively update you on the changes coming to your Concur online booking tool.  Please know we are here to support you with any questions you may have in the coming weeks.

SAP Concur Changes
2 Factor Authentication/Password requirements:

As a part of security features upgrade Concur plans to implement mandatory two-factor authentication (2FA) for all users who are using basic authentication (username and password) on web or mobile. Users that access Concur Travel via SSO without a password required will not be impacted by the new 2FA requirements.

Concur plans to implement this in two phases: Phase 1 on October 18 and Phase 2 on November 15.

Phase 1 (valid email address in profile NOT REQUIRED)–October 18 to November 14

  • During this time, users will receive a prompt to set up 2FA when logging in using basic authentication (username and password).
  • Although valid email address is not required for this phase, it is required effective November 15, at which time if a user doesn’t have a valid email address, they will not be able to log into Concur.

Phase 2 (valid email address in profile REQUIRED)–November 15 ongoing

  • All users must have a valid email address in the first email field in their traveler profile to receive a link to setup 2FA
  • In addition to 2FA, there will be a new password policy enhancement where users will be required to reset their passwords to be compliant with Concur’s new minimum standard.

NOTE: If you have multiple logins for Concur Travel, the enrollment process is required for each credential.

Impact to End Users:

  • End users will be required to enroll in 2FA during the sign in process beginning October 18. This will require them to have an authenticator app on their mobile phone or via browser extension.
  • After successful registration, end users will be prompted to enter a 6-digit code generated by their authenticator app. This process will be in place for all subsequent logins.
  • Concur suggests the following authenticator apps: Twilio Authy Authenticator, Duo Mobile, Microsoft Authenticator, and Google Authenticator.
  • If an end user does not have a mobile phone or does not want to download an authenticator app on their mobile phone, they can use an authenticator app on their browser such as Google Chrome or Microsoft Edge.

Action required:

  • Travel Managers should contact their IT department and confirm which authenticator app(s) end users should download ahead of time.

More information will be communicated in the coming weeks.