LIVE VIRTUAL EVENTS:

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Excite.

Experience.

Engage.

“…fantastic job putting together another successful virtual tradeshow. The chat function was a great feature that allowed our attendees to participate in real-time conversations. We are very pleased with the overall experience.” –AMA Waterways

“…a really innovative way to reach travel agents across the country without having to travel to multiple shows. No carrying brochures across town, no time spent travelling to the location. This adds a level of excitement to the traditional tradeshow format!”–Carnival Cruise Lines

“The Expos have been a great success. In today’s economic environment, providing this medium of communication in our industry makes complete sense.” –OSSN

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virtualtravelevents.com

Table of Contents

BACKGROUND

ABOUT THE VIRTUAL LUXURY EXPO

CASE STUDY: VIRGIN ATLANTIC AIRWAYS

Pavillion Booth

Live Presentation

Questions & Comments

Networking Lounge

VIRTUAL TRAVEL EVENTS

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“The Internet will be a fad,” claimed scientist in ‘95

Scientist Clifford Stoll stated this about the internet: “it’s grossly oversold and within two or three years people will shrug and say, ‘”Uh yep, it was a fad of the early 90’s and now, oh yeah, it still exists but hey, I’ve got a life to lead and work to do. I don’t have time to waste online.”

Most suppliers and travel destinations are treating virtual events the way Stoll talked about the internet.

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“

“

Virtual events – in which you truly replicate an event experience – are the most exciting Web 2.0 marketing opportunity. They deliver great results and, if you replace a real event with a virtual one, you can cut costs as much as 95 percent. While in-person events offer the benefits of a face-to-face contact, virtual events also offer online opportunities for networking and chatting that enable a personal connection. Enterprises should evaluate their events strategies and develop a mix of

physical, virtual, and hybrid events to maximize ROI.”

—Sandy Carter, Vice President, Software Business Partners IBM

Economic and environment factors are driving increased demand for virtual events. Successful companies are decreasing their costs and expanding their global reach, while offering their customers, partners, and employees a more convenient way to access valuable information. Virtual events offer extended and enriched access to content and speakers, while delivering better metrics for better business intelligence.”

—Kathleen Sulgit, Director, Global Events & Operations, Corporate Marketing Cisco

Virtual events are forecasted to con-tinue at a compound annual growth rate of 56% through 2015.

56%

According to Market Research Media, virtual events are forecasted to continue at a compound annual growth rate of 56% through 2015.

Are you taking advantage of the opportunity in virtual events?

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vv

In March 2012, travAlliancemedia held its two day Virtual Luxury Expo, an online interactive expo dedicated to the selling of luxury travel. Over 4,000 unique travel agents registered for the event and during the two-day period 1384 eager to learn agents attended.

Introducing Virgin Atlantic Airways, who participated in the Virtual Luxury Expo, their first ever virtual event.

2012 Virtual Luxury Expo

1384 eager–to–learn agents attended the live days of 2012 Virtual Luxury Expo

322In the 6 weeks following the show an additional 322 agents attended the ondemand period.

1384

To say it was a success is an understatement...

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Virgin Atlantic AirwaysConsider the results delivered to Virgin Atlantic Airways, their first venture into the virtual event arena.

Virgin Atlantic participated in three engaging opportunities in the event: the LIVE presentation, “Luxury in the Sky” hosted by Mark Murphy, a staffed Pavilion Booth to interact with agents, and the sponsorship of the Networking Lounge, where they were able to further promote their brand and interact with agents.

“ Thank you to you and the

team for all your hard

work creating and hosting

the tradeshow. We really

enjoyed the last couple of

days. The show looked and

performed really well and

we had great interaction

and feedback from a broad

range of agents.”

—Jenna Steggles, Trade Marketing Program Manager

ENGAGEMENT.

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Virgin Atlantic Pavillion Booth

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WHAT WAS INCLUDED WITH THEIR BOOTH

4 Representatives to engage and interact with agents:•Chris Quiriconi•Jenna Steggles•Larry Riley•Andy Grodecki

3 Brochures for download:•8–page Upperclass brochure•7–page Premium Economy brochure•Links to Facebook and Twitter profiles, Youtube

channel and to their travel trade website, vsflyinghub.com

5 Videos for viewing:•Mark Murphy’s personal experience sitting in

premium economy class•Mark Murphy’s personal experience sitting in

upperclass•Mark Murphy arriving at the Virgin upper class wing

at Heathrow Airport•Mark Murphy arriving at JFK’s new upperclass

clubhouse•Virgin’s vsflyinghub, the website specifically created

for agents

485 brochures WERE downloaded for agents to share with clients

485

697697 agents VISITED the Virgin Atlantic Pavillion booth

1099 THE NUMBER of times a Virgin Atlantic video was watched

1099

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Virgin Representatives Travel Agents Travalliance Representatives

PREMIUM ECONOMYNancy M. I am looking forward to flying VA this summer. First time. Thanks.Jenna Steggles Hi Nancy, What cabin are you flying?Nancy M. Economy. Limited budget.Colleen L. Premium Economy is an awesome upgrade.Nancy M. Maybe will try it. Thanks. I have heard nothing but good reports from clients.Jenna Steggles Nancy: Enjoy our new welcome cocktail and meal service. Are you going to London?Nancy M. Yes.

AGENT RATESMelanie M. Where on the vsflyinghub.com would I find the TA rates? I emailed your customer service last week and they said the rates were being redone and the only way to book is by calling in. They don’t have them posted at the momentJenna Steggles The new fares for Summer 2012 will be posted this week. If you are a member, you’ll receive an email once they go live.Jenna Steggles Melanie: If you need the fares in the meantime, please contact theproducers@fly.virgin.comMelanie M. Yay! Thank you. I keep looking each week and love the new look to the site, but just thought it was my error I could not find them. I did email that address and was told to call into the call center.

ACCESSSonia L. Premium economy looks very nice! Can’t wait to give it a try myself.Jenna Steggles Sonia: Join our agent website vsflyinghub.com and you’ll be sent updates on all our agent fares and competitions to win tickets and FAM trips.Sonia L. Thank you!Sonia L. Can entrance to the Club House be purchased if you are on Premium Economy?Larry Riley Sonia, access to the London Clubhouse can only be gained by purchase of an Upper Class ticket or as a Gold Club member of Flying Club. Much more exclusive than your typical airline lounge.Sonia L. Thanks, Larry. Enjoying seeing the video showing upper class check in and the clubhouse. Unbelievable!Larry Riley Sonia, might go to www.vsflyinghub.com for some great views of the Clubhouses around our network. You will see what I mean!Larry Riley Sonia, if you have high touch Biz Class travelers they will never go back to the other guys after experiencing the UC Wing in London.

ATMOSPHEREMary B. I’m impressed!Jenna Steggles Thank you Mary. What stood out for you as something you can’t wait to recommend to your customers?Mary B. The whole relaxed experience that starts even before you board your flight.Jenna Steggles We want your clients to enjoy their traveling experience. They shouldn’t have to wait until they arrive at their destination for the vacation to begin.

REWARDSNancy M. Someone told me that you can use AX Rewards on VA. Is it true?Larry Riley You can convert Amex points into Flying Club points for travel.Jenna Steggles We also have an earn and burn policy with Virgin Australia

SOCIAL MEDIAYvette P. Does Virgin have the system of facebook and LinkedIn selecting who you can sit next to? (Like klm?)Chris Quiriconi Interesting question Yvette. Do you have any travelers that enjoy that program?Yvette P. Thought it is interesting enough to market to clients. I’d like to choose my seatmate ;)Jenna Steggles Yvette: I see you’re interested in social media innovations. Have you heard of our tweetbot service?Yvette P. No tell meJenna Steggles Tweetbot is our new twitter service allowing passengers to check flight status via twitter.Jenna Steggles To use the feature, you can send a tweet to @VAAInfo with your flight number and departure in the format “VSXX DDMM.”Jenna Steggles The bot would tweet back something like, “@you – Hello gorgeous! The @VirginAtlantic VS4/22Nov is leaving New York JFK at 18:00 & landing in London LHR at 06:20/23Nov.”

Interactive Chat Experience With Virgin Representatives

Out of over a hundred conversations that took place over the past two days, here are some highlights in the Virgin Booth. When you read them, you can almost “hear” the excitement and buzz in the booth.

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*Chat transcripts have been edited for typos and grammar.

ONBOARD AMENITIESChris Quiriconi On Virgin I just meet most of my new friends at the onboard barYvette P. Chris Do you have to wear a seatbelt?Chris Quiriconi Yes there are seatbelts at the bar!Chris Quiriconi The onboard bar is exclusive to our upper class guestsChris Quiriconi Yet we serve complimentary cocktails throughout the whole flight in all cabinsJenna Steggles Have you heard about our new partnership with Travelreads - it will help you and your customers learn more about our destinationsYvette P. What is travelreads? Also how’s wifi onboard? Have charging outlets available?Yvette P. Do you offer fine wine selections?Chris Quiriconi Absolutely! I just flew Upper last week and had an amazing Australian Riesling paired with my prawn appetizerChris Quiriconi The new Upper Class menu is wonderfulChris Quiriconi Last week I had prawns followed by a beef wellington and a key lime pie for dessert!Jenna Steggles Travel reads will deliver curated in-depth articles about destinations you love whilst your on the move. I’ll be posting full details about the service on our agent website vsflyinghub.com later todayPatricia K. The foot rest is a great feature! PatChris Quiriconi Patricia: Thanks. Have your customer’s flown Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy?Patricia K. Do my clients receive meals on Premium Economy? Do that are receive complimentary liquor? TksPatricia K. My clients have not flown Premium Economy but I will be recommending it now!Chris Quiriconi Patricia: Yes, we service complimentary food and drink (including alcoholic beverages) in all cabins. The Premium Economy cabin has a choice of three meals all served on china. Drinks are complimentary and available throughout the flight.Patricia K. Hi Chris, Thank you!Patricia K. My client has special restrictions on food—Can they be accommodated?Chris Quiriconi Patricia: We offer a range of meal options which your clients can preorder.Chris Quiriconi Patricia: Including Diabetic, Vegan, Kosher and many more. A full list of meal service options is available on our agent website vsflyinghub.comPatricia K. Thank you, PatDebby D. What is the recline in premium economy?Jenna Steggles Our premium economy seat has 21 inches of seat width and a recline of 16 degrees - equivalent to US domestic business class

COVERAGEYvette P. Any South American coverage?Jenna Steggles Yvette: Good question but we don’t fly to any South American destinations at this time.

PARTNERSHIPToni B. Do you have any wholesale contracts in Vancouver for your new service? Who do we call to book, or do we sell direct?Larry Riley Toni, if you are one of our partner consortia you can book direct and take your commission or you can use one of several wholesalers we work with.Toni B. Larry: I have been unable to find a wholesaler as of yet, do you know any?Toni B. Or are you going to offer something through ensemble? I have been told no commission with ensemble...Larry Riley Toni, we work with Ensemble. Please go back to them for details of our program.Carolyn W. How does one sell or join the Fly Club Program.Chris Quiriconi www.virginatlantic.com/flyingclubCarolyn W. Ok.Chris Quiriconi You can sign up yourself or a client right thereChris Quiriconi You can earn and redeem miles on VX, VA and many other partner airlinesChris Quiriconi The Virgin brand of airlines truly is about bringing the fun, style and glamour back into air travelChris Quiriconi Something that has really been missing these daysCarolyn W. I am going to check this out. It sounds great.Chris Quiriconi It really is a great program. And we don’t have as many members as our competition making award seats more easily obtainableChris Quiriconi In the presentation they just did a poll and 86% of the travel agents in the presentation have not ever flown Virgin Atlantic!Chris Quiriconi Andy is talking about agent fares right now and usually we have great agent rates

SERVICESLinda L. For upper class is all food in the club lounge free?Linda L. At the airport?Jenna Steggles Linda: Yes, all services in our Clubhouses are free, including food and drink. The spa and salon also have a list of complimentary services available to passengers.Linda L. Wow that is wonderful.Larry Riley Linda, dining in the Clubhouse is not only a great experience; it also is a great value add for your customer. A meal in NY or LON could be several hundred$ Linda L. You are so right.

AVAILABILITYLisa F. Great video... looks very comfy! I wish you flew from CLT!!!Jenna Steggles Lisa: We have a number of partner airlines who would be able to connect you to a Virgin gatewayLarry Riley Hi Lisa, we do not fly from CLT but do publish fares in combination with other carriers over our gateways that are eligible for commission.Lisa F. Who do you partner with from CLT?Larry Riley We don’t partner per se but would publish a fare with any airline flying CLT over JFK/EWR/IAD to get to our gateway. Might be a better experience for them even with the stop. Especially after some time in the Clubhouse!

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The LIVE presentation included the ability to ask questions of the agents in attendance and gain their feedback via instant polling. This gave Virgin the opportunity to gauge the audience and their potential.

After Mark’s presentations and interactions he handed over the microphone to Andy who talked about the Virgin Atlantic experience and how to best sell the product. Travel agents were able to ask questions throughout the presentation, questions that were addressed by both Andy and Mark during and after the presentations.

Instant polling helped Virgin gauge the audience’s understanding of the product.

Live, one hour interactive presentation “Luxury In The Sky” hosted by Mark Murphy

665665 agents tuned in to listen to Mark Murphy host a live presentation with Virgin Atlantic’s VP Sales North America, Andy Grodecki.

THE LIVE PRESENTATION INCLUDED INSTANT POLLING

Have your ever flown Virgin Atlantic?

Yes 14%

No 86%

If you’ve flown Virgin Atlantic, what class of service did you fly?

Upper Class 27%

Premium Economy 18%

Economy 55%

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A SLIDE FROM THE “LUXURY IN THE SKY” LIVE PRESENTATION

“ This has been a great

experience for me! Very

cool engagement.”

—Larry Riley, Virgin Atlantic Airways

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v

Virgin Representatives Travel Agents Travalliance Representatives

DeeDee L. I no longer have ARC. I am currently a member of CLIA, do you recognize CLIA agencies for agent discount purposes?Keli W. How do we as travel agents find the travel agent rates on Virgin America?Dorsey M. Wow very neatSherrill S. Will you be expanding to include any departure airports in Texas?David S. Las Vegas? :) New Terminal perhaps?Sheryl Ann W. Wow talking fast where are those clubhouses?Scott S. Any plans for Seattle departures and clubhouse?Adriana M. Are the services at the club compli-mentary and if so are tips requiredDebbe L. Could you repeat where clubhouses are in USSue M. Do you have a private TSA check for upper class?Anny W. No Clubhouse in LAX?Tammy T. In the cabin or the bar are you allowed to use electronic cigarettes?Chris T. WowDorsey M. Unbelievable wow what service. I wasn’t aware of all this.Debbie W. Thank You!Ruthanne M. I was interrupted. Did Andy cover add-on fares? US domestic to a hub?Patricia K. This was a great presentation and I learned so much! PatEileen C. Wonderful thank youLisa S. Many many thanks!Debbie W. I am very impressed and very good presentationAnne S. Home city is TUS. How can I work with you?

“Unbelievable wow what service. I wasn’t aware of all this.” —Dorsey M.

7070 total comments made and questions asked during the live presentation

Belvin B. Are there any plans to come to the Atlanta airport, world’s busiest airport?Scooter T. Can non-ARC travel agencies book Virgin Atlantic (and get paid a commission?)Sheryl Ann W. Where does Virgin Depart TO/OR Within Canada?Rebecca D. You describe cabins. Are each level of service self contained cabin wise or are they intermingled?Christopher S. My clients love Virgin so much that they book it themselves and I don’t get the credit..What a shame because I want to experience Virgin myself.Chris T. We have about 50,000 agentsRebecca D. Thank you

Sheryl Ann W. Oh great thanks!Jimmy T. Is Virgin Atlantic handicap accessible?Thomas T. What are the booking codes for Premium Economy?Sheryl Ann W. Don’t forget about Okanagan, Brit-ish Columbia 5 hrs inland from Vancouver - huge wants for Travel Departure so more Business people can live here!Kevin H. Are there any plans to expand and have flights out of SeattleDebbie W. Is the Caribbean part of your destination

FROM THE LIVE PRESENTATION

Lisa S. Good Afternoon. Looking forward to this presentation from Virgin Atlantic!Lisa S. Hoping that they offer the great travel agent rates that Virgin offered last year in Q1... I would and could go this year!!!!Thomas T. I took advantage of the agent fares....Do it! It is so worth it.Dorsey M. How do we find the Agent fares?Cindy P. During the Olympics, will all upper-class travelers be able to use the WING check in, even if using their own transfer service?

Paula A. More like AWESOME!Tammy T. Do you have a list of costs for the services in the Clubhouse?Tanya B. Are those amenities... drinks, haircuts, mas-saging sauna, included with the price of the ticket?Suzanne A. Is there a charge for food and drinks in the Clubhouse prior to boarding?Kenneth S. Haircuts and massages are extra. What are the included items?Debbe L. Are there clubhouses in U.S. citiesChris T. Most airlines pay no commission. What’s yours?

4141 questions asked during the presentation were answered immediately.

Hear the...

“ Thank you for supporting us.”—Cherl Cadwell,

Smooth Rider Travel

“ I am very impressed and very good presentation.” —Patricia Kibler, Kibler Travel

“ Looking forward to this presentation from Virgin Atlantic! —Lisa Silvestri, Silvestri Travel

Questions and Comments

v

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Greg P. What kinds of discounts are available to travel agents?Debbe L. Very inspiring. Our agency is in Honolulu.Melanie M. Are you going to build a clubhouse at our new terminal being built here in Las Vegas?Norman T. Only virgin passenger use the club houseMarie G. Will there also be a clubhouse in Miami soon?Debra G. Thank you for a great presentation. What are the booking classes for premium economy?Chris T. Any USA domestic flight plans?Keli W. Do you have a dedicated Travel Agent website?Patricia K. Thank you for a great presentation!Rose G. Is Virgin Atlantic affiliated with any other airline group to accumulate frequent flier mile points

...buzz

“ This was a great presentation and I learned so much!” —Patricia Kirkpatrick,

Adventure Associates“Thanks so much... This was great.” —Dwight Hughes,

American Express Travel

Nelson H. Does Dubai have a clubhouse lounge?Debbe L. Do you have a frequent flyer program?Ronnie M. I have 4 VIP pax flying VA in June out of EWR... anyone I could contact for lounge use?Linda R. Want to know who my rep is for No. Calif. and if I can use my CLIA for commission capability. Please advise. Thx. L. ReitzellRuth S. Thank you!Tanya B. Thank youDwight H. Thanks so much....this was greatCheri C. Thank you for supporting usMarilyn V. What about a club house in Atlanta?

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Virgin Representatives Travel Agents Travalliance Representatives

DAY ONE

Kerry Medina Welcome to the Virtual Luxury Expo networking lounge!Kerry Medina Are you enjoying the show?Debra P. Yes, just got here.Kerry Medina Have you visited the Exhibition Hall or viewed any of the presentations?Sharon G. Just entered the site and watching the Virgin Atlantic video.Kerry Medina Have you booked or flown Virgin before Sharon?Sharon G. No, but my daughter who lives in Eng-land swears by them.Jane Jamison Actually makes flying funKerry Medina They do make transatlantic flights a pleasant experience.Sharon G. Sorry, yes I have booked Virgin, but for clients, unfortunately, not for me. Wish the agent discounts were deeper.

Kerry Medina Has anyone sailed with Uniworld?Jane Jamison Or at least taken a river cruiseJames Ruggia I’ve done the Nile a few times & the Yangtze onceJane Jamison What did you like best about the experiences?James Ruggia I prefer it to ocean cruisingJames Ruggia You sail into the heart of the des-

tination not some port on the edge of townJames Ruggia You watch the land go by not empty seaJane Jamison More time to see everythingJames Ruggia It’s really like touring not cruisingJames Ruggia The top decks are nice places for a drink & a conversation.Kerry Medina I really enjoy being on a smaller ship. It’s a different experience from ocean cruising.James Ruggia I agree w/ Kerry about size alsoKerry Medina There’s more opportunity to social-ize with other passengers on a river cruise.James Ruggia I remember thinking on the Yangtze that the China rolled by like a landscape on a vase

Barbara M. Greetings from Chicago. This is my first virtual trade show and so far looks great. Excited to hear new news with Uniworld as I have sold it a few times and want to sell more river cruises. They are wonderful!Kerry Medina Have you experienced Uniworld yourself Barbara?Debbi B. I sell River cruising however, I haven’t had the opportunity to experience it myself. Hope to soon though. My clients love it.James Ruggia It always seemed to me that a River Cruise gave agents a chance to move their strictly cruise clients over towards touringKerry Medina Hello everyone who just joined usJames Ruggia Hey everybody. Back from the Webinar?

Jane Jamison They’re talking about their new Italy product being introduced next year nowJean D. I’ve flown Virgin a while back. I appreci-ated the fun and efficient service. I like the LHR check in options, makes it so easy and clients feel like they’re extra specialJane Jamison Perfect for luxury travelersKerry Medina What are the check–in options Jean?Jane Jamison They’re having a live webinar to-morrow. For upper class you can have chauffeur transport to the airport where you’re greeted by someone who help you check inJames Ruggia Do they still offer back massages in business class?Chris Quiriconi We offer back massages in our clubhouses, including the new clubhouse we’ve just opened at JFK airportKerry Medina Hi Chris, who are the clubhouses open to? Passengers flying in upper class?Chris Quiriconi Passengers flying in Upper Class and our Flying Club gold card members.James Ruggia There’s just a whole different feel to flying VirginKerry Medina Thanks Chris. What is your favorite as-pect to flying Virgin as I’m sure you do all the time?Jane Jamison Not your typical flight experience at all. Makes flying fun

Virgin Atlantic Sponsored Networking Lounge

The networking lounge is a great interactive environment where agents can gather to chat up each other as well as Travalliance editorial staff and sponsors. Virgin sponsored the lounge and their clubhouse video was integrated into the lounge itself.

Vice President of Sales, North America Andy Grodecki spent some time there engaging with travel agents who had plenty of questions they wanted to ask.

“This is my first virtual trade show and so far looks great.” —Barbara Movelle,

Empty Nest Travel

“ I’m excited to be a part of this trade show.” —Cynthia Huertas,

Travel Line International

Feel the...

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*Chat transcripts have been edited for typos and grammar.

Kerry Medina How are you enjoying today’s Virtual Luxury Expo?Murray L. Lots to see - good stuffJames Ruggia Good to hear MurrayJames Ruggia The shows keep getting better and betterMurray L. I’m going to be doing the Uniworld presentation in real life—just booked onto their 13–day Rhine & Moselle cruise for October :)Kerry Medina Good for you Murray! You’ll really enjoy it!Jane Jamison Uniworld is answering agent ques-tions at their live webinar right nowJean D. Cool product extras!Kerry Medina Jean, any in particular that you’ve really enjoyed?

Jane Jamison Thanks for joining up today, try to come tomorrow as well for the live Virgin Atlantic webinar and for advice from Valerie Wilson on how to achieve success in luxury travel sales Kerry Medina Anyone pick up any great tips at today’s webinars or from suppliers in the exhibition hall?Sheryl Ann W. The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse is a mind blower—beautiful, modern, relaxing, so many different things

Gail B. Is Heathrow the only location?Gail B. From Marks comment just now must be other locations? As he said time to jet off to London...Jane Jamison Other locations are Gatwick, JFK, Newark, Washington, San Francisco, Boston, Johannesburg, Hong Kong and TokyoGail B. Thanks JaneThomas T. The Clubhouse looks wonderful! Espe-cially the Spa. What a great way to start a flight.Theresa Masek Did you check out the river cruise booths? That’s a fast-growing segment.Cynthia Q. Oh my! That was so wonderful. I loved the presentation. It brought the cruise to life. I also enjoyed Mark’s tour of Japan and Egypt. I also love the Club House with Virgin Atlantic.Theresa W. The show is a wonderful way to get information via the computer. Virgin Atlantic is a fly to live for to take in the future and book clients.Cynthia Q. Yes. I must have this experience and will suggest this to my clients as well.

“Lots to see - good stuff.” —Murray Lundberg, Cruise Explorer

...excitement

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Virgin Representatives Travel Agents Travalliance Representatives

Theresa Masek Hi Larry! Welcome Chris and Janet!Chris Quiriconi Great show. Can’t wait to return again tomorrow.Jannet B. Thanks TheresaTheresa Masek Glad you are all enjoying it. Janet, did you find what you needed here?Jannet B. Yes - I’m enjoying everything in here!

Michelene H. Am sure it will be crowded during the Olympics... where more traveling to LondonChris Quiriconi Yes 2012 is a big year for London.Chris Quiriconi And there is only one way to fly there!

Pat C. Has anyone tried the new American steamboatTheresa Masek Great American Steamboat Company’s American Queen is being christened April 27 in Memphis. Priscilla Presley is the godmother.Pat C. That should be really nice. I sailed on the old one and loved it!Theresa Masek The steamboat experience is river cruising, it includes all the shore excursions.Theresa Masek Welcome to the networking lounge, everyone! Are you enjoying the show?Lucinda B. It’s great. I always learn something new.Theresa Masek So you’ve done one of these virtual shows before, Lucinda?Lucinda B. I think this is my 3rd or 4th one. They are great.Theresa Masek That’s great to hear. Glad you like the shows.Tina O. Loved the Live Presentation and the interactive approach. I’m ready to focus on River boating and small ship cruising. We are going to experience American Safari Cruises in Hawaii in May 36 passenger Yacht style sailing.Theresa Masek Tina, I would love to do that cruise! Lucky! Our company also has a website called SellRiverCruises.com, which might be helpful. It has webinars on demand, links to river cruise education sites and news from the companies.Tina O. Thanks, I’m very excited about River Cruis-ing now and want to learn as much as possible.David Cogswell Are you selling a lot of river cruises, Tina?Tina O. No I have only sold a couple River CruisesTheresa Masek The majority of people who book river cruises are experienced cruisers on the big-ship lines, so it’s a natural evolution.David Cogswell Are you seeing people who do ocean cruises getting interested in river cruising?Tina O. Yes, but I have not been marketing and promoting River Cruises. I’m a bit behind.Andy B. River Cruises are the hottest Product this year for our company this year!Tina O. I’m encouraged by that!Andy B. One mailing and we were flooded with calls and bookings!

David Cogswell It really seems to be an ideal com-bination of cruise elements and land elements.Andy B. Every client that has come back just raves about the experience!David Cogswell Andy, what lines are you booking?Theresa Masek Uniworld has some very fancy new ships.Andy B. Theresa, you are right about qualifying your client, but when it’s a fit, the Client beats you in sending out the “Thank You” Card! lol! And yes, Uniworld looks VERY NICE!Theresa Masek Andy, that’s great your clients are so happy. There are a lot of rivers in the world for them to explore!David Cogswell It’s just about the hottest segment of the travel industry for years now.Andy B. Really, the only complaint I have had so far is... the cruise ended to soon... they wanted another 14 days!Theresa Masek Are there similar Virgin Atlantic lounges elsewhere or just JFK?Larry Riley Our flagship Clubhouse is actually at Heathrow and JFK was modeled after that. We also have Clubhouses in Boston, Newark, Washington, San Francisco, Tokyo, Gatwick and Joburg South Africa.Larry Riley Our sister company Virgin America already flies domestic USDavid Cogswell If you fly to Joberg on Virgin do you go through London?Denise F. Larry are they out of Newark or JFK?Larry Riley All US origins go to London Heath-row, Gatwick or Manchester. Connects beyond are thru Heathrow to S. Africa, Asia, Middle East or on other airlines to Europe destinations we do not fly.Larry Riley Denise, VX is based in SFO and fly all routes currently to/from either SFO or LAX. They are still building critical mass and expanding every month.David Cogswell Is Virgin America a domestic airline?Larry Riley Virgin America is one of the other Virgin branded companies of which there are now over 400 around the world I am told. They fly US and Mexico from their base in San Fran. They are earning many industry awards for their service and are a great partner to have in the US.Larry Riley With the addition of the 787 to our fleet starting in 2014 however, you never know!Theresa Masek Is the 787 the Dreamliner?Larry Riley The 787 is the Dreamliner and is much more fuel efficient to fly unique routes like that

“Oh my! That was so

wonderful. I loved the

presentation. I must

have this experience

and will suggest this to

my clients as well.”

—Cynthia Quade, Aqua Blue Travel

97%97% of attendees surveyed who attended the Virgin Atlantic presentation said it gave them valuable information to help them sell Virgin better to their clients.

“ Got a lot of great info RE: Virgin Atlantic! I’ll go to their web site for more...” —Scott Smith,

Lake City Travel And Cruises

See the...

“ The Virgin Atlantic Clubhouse is a mind blower—beautiful, modern, relaxing, so many different things.”

—Sheryl Ann Wilson, Inteletravel

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*Chat transcripts have been edited for typos and grammar.

Chris T. That was a great presentation about VAKerry Medina Glad to hear you enjoyed it Chris!Kerry Medina Have you flown VA before?Chris T. No but I plan on it

Nelson H. This is a wonderful interaction!Kerry Medina Happy to hear you’re enjoying it Nelson -and finding it helpful!Jane Jamison Please let us know how you’re enjoying the show and what parts you like bestNelson H. I have enjoyed both days of the show! Enjoyed chatting with you. I am headed to the Exhibition Hall. Enjoy the rest of the show and Thanks for chatting!

Scott S. Thx Andy. I hope to see you in Seattle soon, using the boeing 777, right?Larry Riley Hi Scott, when we get to Seattle it will probably be the 787 Dreamliner. However, no plans at the moment. Just launching Vancouver up that way this yearAndy Grodecki The Boeing is due for delivery 2014. We’d like to fly to Seattle directly but I the meantime, you can book your travelers on Virgin America from Seattle SFO & LAX and then across the Atlantic on us. The traveler will earn miles on both airlines thanks to our new recipro-cal frequent flyer program partnership.Scott S. Oops, I meant the 787. fat fingers typo, I’ll look forward to selling VA AND Boeing’s dreamlinerKeith P. Hi James - Wow this lounge looks great... how is the offering of wine by the glass?Scott S. Andy, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner will be a good draw, especially for us in the Pacific Northwest.

Dilip V. How do you get the best rates for Virgin Flights? Kerry Medina Dilip, I would suggest attending today’s live Virgin presentation, which starts at 2:30pm as you’ll be able to ask Virgin questions directly.Jane Jamison Everyone’s been excited about itJane Jamison Great productsKerry Medina Everyone sounds very excited about it from what I heard here yesterdayJane Jamison The interaction is great

Ruth S. The lounge is fabulous!!Cynthia H. Fantastic presentation... looking forward to flying VAJane Jamison I can’t believe the bedsKerry Medina Have you experienced Virgin Atlantic before or do you ever book it for clients?Ruth S. I have not but my clients haveEzelma B. This is Awesome!!!Kerry Medina And have they enjoyed the experience Ruth?Ruth S. Absolutely!Kerry Medina Well, hopefully now that you’ve been to the presentation, you’ll be sending even more clients abroad on Virgin Atlantic, Ruth!

Nelson H. The Virgin Atlantic presentation was AWESOME!Kerry Medina Glad to hear you enjoyed it Nelson! Was there anything that you will tell clients spe-cifically when selling Virgin Atlantic?Kerry Medina That you learned during the presentation, that is.Nelson H. I am so amazed at the bedding on the airline. And I believe the Lounge will be of huge interest.Kerry Medina Everyone has been really excited about the lounge!Kerry Medina Have you personally experienced Virgin Atlantic?Nelson H. I am looking forward to experiencing it for myself as well. I love Dubai, but have not been yet.Nelson H. Yes, and I will probably first experience Virgin out of DFW to LAS.

Sherilyn D. Looking forward to sharing this with my clientsKeli W. Amazing presentation. I can’t wait to share this with my clients

DAY TWO

Kerry Medina Hello & welcome to the second day of Virtual Luxury Expo!Jane Jamison Welcome to the showJane Jamison Hi DavellePaula F. Hi Jane, thank youJane Jamison Were you here yesterday?Paula F. Yes, it was very interesting & informative.

Kerry Medina Are you returning for day two of the show or is today your first visit?Gerseli S. My first, but I will have to return here only laterKerry Medina Well, we’re glad you could join us! Please let us know if you have any other questions.

David Cogswell Matthew says the Gen X travelers are defying the predictions of conventional wis-dom and they are using travel agents.David Cogswell We were told they would be strictly online consumers. Isn’t happening.Toni M. I think it depends on what they are booking.David Cogswell DefinitelyJeanne T. I have had so many clients call me with their unfortunate experiences with doing travel planning themselves-they think that they can save money by booking themselves but then spend so much more in addition to many problems that they encounter!David Cogswell It’s a very very common storyDavid Cogswell By now it has happened so much that it registers as a change in the population. People have been coming back to travel agents for a long time now. It’s too bad they have to experience a disappointment to learn that.David Cogswell My daughter booked a ticket on expedia and when the hurricane came she needed me to help her change the ticket. It was a nightmare! That’s how people learn. When you need Expedia, they are nowhere to be found.

Ruth S. HELLO!!!Kerry Medina Hi RuthKerry Medina How are you enjoying the show?Ruth S. It’s GREAT! Jane Jamison Thank you! Glad you’re enjoying!

“

“

Great show. Can’t

wait to return again

tomorrow.”

—Chris Quiriconi, Virgin Atlantic Airways

Looking forward to sharing this with my clients.”

—Sherilyn Davis, K&L Travel

“Fantastic presentation...

looking forward to flying

VA.”

—Cynthia Huertas, Travel Line International

97%97% of attendees surveyed said they considered the Virtual Luxury Expo to be of value to them.

...engagement

20

Virgin Representatives Travel Agents Travalliance Representatives

Bernadette M. This is great! Thanks so much to Mark Murphy and everyone involved for putting this together... It is just awesome!!Theresa Masek Glad you like it, Bernadette!Theresa Masek It is just like a real trade show, isn’t it? Only on your own computer?Bernadette M. This is my second virtual expo... I’m sitting here wondering where I was for the ones I missed.Bernadette M. Yes, it is. Getting around is easy and interacting is great!Theresa Masek Bernadette, do you read Travel Pulse every morning? It usually announces when the next virtual show or webinar will be. You can subscribe to it by email or just go the site at www.TravelPulse.com.Bernadette M. No, I don’t... Don’t know why I’m not subscribed but I am going to take care of that right now. Thanks for the info Theresa.Theresa Masek @Bernadette, that way you won’t miss any of our shows and events. :) Plus, you’ll get all the news of the day.Bernadette M. @Theresa, I just checked and I am registered but I guess I didn’t sign up for the daily newsletter... but I’m doing that now. Thanks again!Theresa Masek No problem, thanks for joining us today.

Roxana L. The Live session was ALMOST as good as an actual experience. Thanks!David Cogswell Better considering the travel time saved.David Cogswell Its online learning experience, sort of like a webinar, but multi-tiered. So it is like a virtual trade show, but not to take the place of trade shows.Thelma J. I’ve really enjoyed both days of the show. The virgin Atlantic presentation was the best one for me because I didn’t know that an airline had so much to offer. Much better than a travel trade show.

Theresa Masek Hello everyone. How are you enjoying the show?Geneva R. Very nice, thank you.Theresa Masek Is this your first time, Geneva, or have you attended our virtual shows before?Geneva R. This is my first one.Theresa Masek Are you finding it easy to move around and find what you’re looking for? I work for the company, so I can offer assistance if you need it.Geneva R. I just arrived, but so far, so good. Thank you.

James Ruggia Any booths stand out? Seminars etc?Scott S. Got a lot of great info re: Virgin Atlantic! I’ll go to their web site for more... thxAndy Grodecki Our agent website is vsflyinghub.com. Hope to see you there soonJames Ruggia Virgin Atlantic has gotten wonder-ful feedback from this show

“ This is great! Thanks so much to Mark Murphy and everyone involved for putting this together... It is just awesome!!” —Bernadette Murphy,

Murphy Cruises & Travel

“ The Virgin Atlantic presentation was AWESOME!” —Nelson Hollins,

Travel Extaordinaire Travel Agency

“Much better than a

travel trade show.”

—Thelma Jones, Expedia Cruise Ship Centers

21 The 2012 Virtual Luxury Expo reached over 1384 agents in 21 countries across the globe.

An interactive experience

21

Physical and virtual events share the same common goal in that their mission is to present your message to a specific and targeted audience. But did you know that only 5% of all travel agents ever make it out to a large travel industry conference or exposition during the course of the year? Rather than agents having to physically make the trip and take time away from their main business goal of selling your product and destination, travAlliancemedia introduced Virtual Travel Events, what is known as the 95% solution.

ENGAGEMENT, ENGAGEMENT, ENGAGEMENT! Attendees log in and with one click of the mouse begin to engage in the experience… •Visit supplier booths

•Watch and interact during LIVE presentations

•Viewdynamicvideocontent

•Downloadbrochuresandinformation

•Interact with fellow industry members in the Networking Lounge

EXTENDED BRAND EXPOSURE Talk to hundreds of targeted agents during the duration of the LIVE event. Upon conclusion of the live event, reach hundreds, thousands more of agents during the OnDemand period.

MEASURABILITY Interact directly with agents in your booth. Receive a detailed analysis of activity of agents in your booth. Gain a valuable database of agents upon conclusion of the event including behavioral and demographic information.

MINIMAL PRESHOW PLANNING No travel planning involved, no construction of a costly booth, no printing and shipping of collateral, and no traveling to and from the event costing the company valuable time and money.

The 95% Solution

5%Only 5% of all travel agents ever make it out to a large travel industry conference or exposition during the course of the year.

EnvironmentTravel takes it’s toll on the environment, something that everyone in the travel industry wants to mitigate at every possible step. A typical passenger jet plane emits one pound of carbon dioxide, per passenger, for every mile it travels. For most companies, travel makes up 25% of their carbon footprint. With a virtual event, the cost to the environment is practically zero, compared to the sizable carbon footprint that is created from hundreds of agents attending a physical event. We’re not telling you to completely give up physical events, but think of the benefit of your participation and how much you’ll be helping the earth if you replace just one physical event with one virtual one.

25%For most companies, travel makes up 25% of their carbon footprint.

22

Engage your audience in a variety of virtual platforms that empowers your content and delivers your brand’s key messaging.

Present your content in an environment through live interaction and rich media presentations to a targeted and influential audience: Travel Agents

Time, money, and geography place limits on the amount of agents your sales people can reach. travAlliancemedia’s Virtual Travel Events removes those limitations and gives travel agents and their customers the ability to experience and learn about your product in a whole new way!

Platform Used For:

Trade Shows

Sales Kick Off Meetings

Annual Conferences

Internal Training

Customer Training

Community Building

Partner Events

Virtual Marketplace

Customized Events

Road Shows

And they’re ready and eager to learn about you...

Agents sell what they know...

As a brand new agent, this

expo is so important for

me to learn about excellent

products and companies

that will help my business

grow. Thank you!”

—Nancy Cronic

“

This is my second virtual

expo… I’m sitting here

wondering where I was for

the ones I missed.”

—Bernadette Murphy

“Small home based

businesses cannot always

afford to fly to conferences.

Not only are we getting

the same presentation but

we get to interact directly

with them.”

“

I felt that the expo was put

together really well. It was

nice to view this without

having to be physically

there. I learned a lot.”

“

I found it to very

informative and

economical as well. I am

a new agent and welcome

every opportunity to learn

about the travel business.”

“

It’s great, I always learn something new. This is my 3rd or 4th show. They are great!”

—Lucinda Belden

“ It’s been very interesting and informative.”

—Paula Forsberg“

The Virtual Expos are wonderful. I love not having to leave the office.”

—Cheri Porter

“

This is wonderful interaction. I have enjoyed both days of the show.”

—Nelson Hollins

“

23

Additional Comments Agent Made About Our Expos

www.virtualtravelevents.com