Royal Caribbean International (RCI) has recognized MEI-Travel, a leading travel agency established in 1998, as its West Partner of the Year for 2023. This prestigious accolade celebrates Mei Travel Partners’ exceptional sales performance and deep-rooted partnership with RCI. The award is a testament to MEI-Travel’s commitment to providing outstanding cruise experiences and reflects their expertise in matching clients with their ideal vacations.
Vicki Freed, Senior Vice President of Sales, Trade Support and Service at Royal Caribbean International, emphasized the thriving state of the cruise industry and the crucial role of travel professionals. “These are extremely exciting times for the entire cruise industry — cruise lines and travel partners alike,” Freed stated. “The sky’s the limit at Royal Caribbean, and the strong performance we’ve seen is thanks in large part to our valued travel professionals and their incredible knowledge when it comes to matching their clients with the right vacation experience.” This recognition underscores the vital contributions of MEI Travel Partners to Royal Caribbean’s success.
To gain deeper insights into MEI-Travel’s achievements and perspectives, we spoke with Beci Mahnken, President and CEO of this Seattle-based agency, which boasts a nationwide team of over 120 advisors.
Celebrating the West Partner of the Year Award
“On behalf of the entire MEI-Travel team, we’re ecstatic to receive this award,” Mahnken expressed. This acknowledgment as RCI’s West Partner of the Year is a significant honor for MEI Travel Partners, highlighting their dedication to client satisfaction. “Our travel advisors work diligently to deliver expertise, ease and value for our clients, and it is an extraordinary honor that fills us with immense pride and gratitude.” She further emphasized the award’s significance, stating, “[The award] serves as a testament to the dedication and hard work of our entire team — it’s not just a validation of our efforts, but also a reflection of the strong partnership we’ve built with Royal Caribbean.” This accolade truly reflects the collaborative spirit and successful synergy between Royal Caribbean and MEI Travel Partners.
The Allure of Royal Caribbean for Cruise Travelers
When asked about what makes RCI a top cruise product, Mahnken pointed to Royal Caribbean’s forward-thinking approach and guest-centric philosophy. “Royal Caribbean is an ideal cruise product due to its innovative approach, top-tier amenities and commitment to the needs of the guest.” For MEI Travel Partners, RCI’s dedication to innovation and guest satisfaction aligns perfectly with their own values. Mahnken also highlighted RCI’s diverse fleet and commitment to responsible tourism: “With a diverse fleet of ships catering to various preferences and a focus on sustainability, Royal Caribbean meets the evolving demands of today’s travelers, making it a compelling choice for those seeking memorable cruise experiences.” This makes Royal Caribbean a compelling option for MEI Travel Partners to offer their clientele.
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Diverse Cruise Options with MEI Travel Partners
MEI-Travel’s success as Royal Caribbean’s West Partner of the Year is also built upon their ability to cater to a wide range of cruise preferences. Mahnken elaborated on the variety of cruise lines they offer, stating, “We have a variety of advisors who curate vacation experiences for individuals, groups and families. Each of these guests have different ideas of what the perfect vacation looks like, and cruises are coming out on top for overall value.” While Royal Caribbean is a key partner, MEI Travel Partners also excel in offering cruises across different segments. “Sales are trending up for several cruise lines, from Royal Caribbean to Celebrity Cruises, Disney Cruise Line, Norwegian Cruise Line, Virgin Voyages and [others] in the luxury space, as well.” This diverse portfolio ensures MEI Travel Partners can find the perfect cruise for every client.
What Distinguishes MEI Travel Partners?
Mahnken articulated what truly sets MEI-Travel apart in the competitive travel industry. “MEI-Travel stands out by not just booking travel, but crafting tailor-made and unforgettable experiences.” Their approach goes beyond transactional bookings, focusing on creating personalized journeys. “With a team of seasoned experts curating personalized itineraries, we place a strong emphasis on customer satisfaction that builds lasting relationships with clients, suppliers and partners.” This commitment to customer relationships and personalized service is a cornerstone of MEI Travel Partners’ success. Furthermore, Mahnken highlighted their collaborative approach: “And we leverage partnerships to create unique experiences for families and groups, forging connections and turning moments into cherished memories.”
Advice for Travel Professionals
Drawing upon her experience and MEI-Travel’s success, Mahnken shared valuable advice for fellow travel professionals. “Passion is the driving force behind a successful travel business.” She emphasized the importance of genuine enthusiasm in the travel industry. “My advice to fellow advisors looking to enhance their business is to cultivate an unwavering passion for the products they promote. Immerse yourself in the details, intricacies and unique offerings of the destinations or experiences you sell.” This passion translates into better service and client trust. Mahnken also stressed the need for continuous learning and industry awareness: “Keep abreast of industry trends, continually educate yourself and let your enthusiasm shine through in every interaction.” For MEI Travel Partners, passion and expertise are key ingredients for success.
The Bright Future of Cruise Travel
Looking ahead, Mahnken expressed optimism about the cruise industry’s future. “The future of cruise sales appears promising as a post-COVID-19 surge in enthusiasm for cruising takes center stage, captivating a wide variety of clients across multiple generations.” She believes the industry’s adaptability and focus on evolving traveler preferences will drive continued growth. “The industry’s innovative offerings, coupled with an increased commitment to sustainability, are poised to cater to the evolving preferences of travelers from different age groups, ensuring that cruise sales continue to thrive in the years to come.” This positive outlook for cruise travel sales bodes well for MEI Travel Partners and the entire industry.
In conclusion, MEI-Travel’s recognition as Royal Caribbean’s West Partner of the Year is a well-deserved honor that reflects their dedication to excellence, strong partnership with RCI, and commitment to providing exceptional cruise experiences. As MEI Travel Partners continue to leverage their expertise and passion, they are well-positioned for continued success in the dynamic world of cruise travel.
