We are KITICON
Global Networks.

The travel industry employs a great many women, yet men continue to be strongly represented in its executive suites. In the sixth part of our series "Women in Leadership", Tina Kirfel, head of the agency Kiticon, talks about her own experiences as a leader and a mother, about prejudices and recruiting, and about Johannes Zurnieden, founder and managing director of the Bonn-based cruise operator Phoenix Reisen, among others, as her role model.

Tina Kirfel, head of the agency Kiticon, took on responsibility in her career at just 32 years of age, but ran into reservations above all as an expectant mother in a leadership position in 2006.

‍

fvw|TravelTalk: What was the decisive moment when you knew: I want to lead and take on responsibility?

Tina Kirfel: It simply happened that way, because from very early on I always liked to take the lead and walk out in front.
‍

The travel industry is regarded as strongly female-dominated, but men still dominate at management level. How do you explain that?

It always takes both sides: women who want to lead, and men who allow it and value strong women. Time and again I experience that we women aren't even included in the shortlist for certain positions. And then it is unfortunately a fact that women have to prove themselves much more and are observed more critically than men. I think a lot of women simply don't feel like putting up with that.
‍

"Time and again I experience that we women aren't even included in the shortlist for certain positions."

‍

What obstacles or prejudices have you encountered as a woman on your career path?

There were quite a few. Especially when I had my first child in 2006, as a manager with a large team of 120 employees. From colleagues in the management circle I kept hearing the sentence: "You just go and have your child first …" What was meant was: after that you'll be a mother anyway and no longer a leader. That's how it was back then, and unfortunately it's still often the case today. Not that much has changed in the mindset.
‍

How did you deal with that?

I tried never to let myself be diverted from my path, even though in the beginning I often had inner doubts and felt insecure. It's good to listen to your gut feeling and your intuition and not let yourself be thrown off. It also takes a fair amount of courage and intrinsic motivation.
‍

"I tried never to let myself be diverted from my path, even though in the beginning I felt insecure."

‍

What does leadership mean to you personally?‍

For me, leadership is a real passion. There is so much abuse of power and so much bad leadership. When weak people hold leadership positions and define themselves through their position, that is always difficult. As a leader, alongside competence you need a strong personality, empathy and vision. You have to be able to take criticism, listen to other opinions and cope with the fact that employees may be better than you in many areas of competence. For me, good leadership also means engaging in controversial discussions and motivating employees to develop their own strengths. Ultimately, leadership also means appreciation, respect and a great deal of responsibility — and always standing in front of your team like a lioness when facing the outside world. I find it hard to bear leaders who belittle their employees in front of others or hold them down.
‍

"Leadership means a great deal of responsibility and always standing in front of your team like a lioness when facing the outside world."

‍

What gives you the greatest pleasure in it?

I think it's wonderful to see how people grow, develop and take on responsibility. In the process you learn to let go yourself and to accept other people's decisions, even if you would have done it differently.
‍

Was there ever a moment when you doubted your leadership role?

No, that never happened. I love leading, I have courage, and making others great is what inspires me. I'm proud of everyone I have made great, and of what outstanding leaders they are today. And when someone then says at an fvw round-table discussion, "I learned all of that from Tina," that's lovely and makes me very happy.
‍

Who or what has shaped you along the way?

A role model for me was without doubt Johannes Zurnieden (founder and managing director of Phoenix Reisen, editor's note), with his entrepreneurial spirit and his always open door. Then my long-standing bosses at Transocean and Hapag-Lloyd Kreuzfahrten, Boudewijn Bezemer and Sebastian Ahrens. They always supported me and trusted me with everything. They also believed that I could have children and still remain a leader with the same drive. That was not usual back then. Certainly not in such a conservative company as Hapag-Lloyd.
‍

"A role model for me was without doubt Johannes Zurnieden, with his entrepreneurial spirit and his always open door."
‍

What concrete changes are needed to bring more women into decision-making positions?

Many people need far more flexibility in their thinking when it comes to filling leadership positions anew. Often women aren't even taken into the selection process, because somewhere in the back of people's minds is the thought: "She's going to have a child soon anyway." And if people still believe that no work gets done in the home office, or that women working part-time don't achieve enough, then it won't work. I know so many women with children who achieve more working part-time than many people do full-time. So what is needed is trust in women and in their competence. Women in leadership positions who have children are, moreover, a great asset. There is simply still far too much competence sitting at home because working models aren't flexible enough.
‍

How do you promote young talent and diversity in your company?

I support everyone by continually motivating them to take on responsibility and to think entrepreneurially. My managers are also involved in the agency's cost and revenue structure. They understand our calculations, know the pain points and learn an incredible amount from it. We are always in close contact. When mistakes happen, we discuss them and we all learn from them.
‍

How important is it that men are part of the discussion about female leadership?

I would think it important for us to talk together, but somehow I haven't experienced that yet. Either the women talk among themselves or the men do. I would like to be part of such gatherings in order to move things further forward.

What advice do you give to young women in the travel industry?

Don't let others make you insecure too quickly, and listen to your inner voice. If you are convinced of something, stand up for your position, even if others want to talk you out of it. Usually your first gut feeling doesn't deceive you. I have found that to be true again and again in hindsight. You have to be courageous if you want to achieve something.
‍

"You have to be courageous if you want to achieve something."

‍

Finally, looking ahead: what would be real progress for female leadership in tourism in five years' time?

If more women were brought into C-level positions in recruiting and could show what they are capable of.

fvw | TravelTalk: What career did your parents have in mind for you?

Tina Kirfel: My parents simply wanted me to find my own path and be happy. A career in tourism has always fulfilled and inspired me. They sensed that right from the start.

‍

fvw | TravelTalk: Fine dining or a snack from a food stand?

Tina Kirfel: Neither, actually. I prefer fresh, balanced and light cuisine.

‍

fvw | TravelTalk: What fascinates you about your job?

Tina Kirfel: The variety and the challenge of continuously putting myself in the position of different clients, understanding their requirements and developing the best strategy.

‍

fvw | TravelTalk: Which keywords would you use to market yourself?

Tina Kirfel: Empathetic, courageous, positive.

fvw | TravelTalk: What will your next project be?

Tina Kirfel: Professionally, to continue expanding KITICON. We have a great team with strong digital expertise and deep tourism know-how. Personally, my children are grown up, I can work from anywhere, and I am enjoying this new freedom.

‍

fvw | TravelTalk: What are you most grateful for in your life?

Tina Kirfel: For my life in general and for everything I have already been able to experience. Every day, I am grateful that I chose this industry, which offers so many opportunities, and that I have a profession that brings me so much joy.

‍

fvw | TravelTalk: What should never be missing from your fridge?

Tina Kirfel: Prosecco.

‍

fvw | TravelTalk: Which country is at the top of your travel list?

Tina Kirfel: There are several. Brazil and South Africa are definitely very high on the list.

‍

fvw | TravelTalk: How often do you check your smartphone each day?

Tina Kirfel: Very, very often. Digital connectivity fascinates me and is an important part of my daily life. I do not need a digital detox.

‍

fvw | TravelTalk: Finally, whose answers would you like to read here?

Tina Kirfel: Those of my friend and business partner Bettina Zwickler, Managing Director of Passage Kontor in Kiel. Day after day, she demonstrates how successfully a brick-and-mortar travel agency can be run, and yet she never tires of implementing new ideas with me.

Bonn-based marketing agency KITICON, together with the SCHÖNES LEBEN Group, has been recognized for the relaunch of schoenes-leben.org. The new corporate website received a Gold German Stevie Award 2025 in the special category “Best Overall Design.” The German Stevie Awards are among the most prestigious business awards, honoring outstanding achievements across more than 200 categories.

Submitted under the title “Premium Senior Living at a New Level – 100% Authentic,” schoenes-leben.org impressed the jury with its emotionally engaging design, clear information architecture, and cohesive user experience. The digital brand presence showcases the services, values, and culture of the SCHÖNES LEBEN Group across the entire user journey—from prospective residents and their families to job applicants.

The jury praised the website with statements such as “modern and appealing,” “authentic imagery that builds trust,” and “setting benchmarks for authenticity, clarity, and refined emotionality.”

Authentic insights and intuitive user guidance

Developed jointly by KITICON and the SCHÖNES LEBEN team in 2024, the website brings together all business areas within clearly structured thematic sections—including premium serviced living and care services—making it easier for users to navigate and make initial contact.

A key success factor was the authentic visual approach featuring real residents and employees, complemented by personal stories, interviews, and video content. In addition, the career portal and the online magazine “hier&jetzt” strengthen reach and employer branding through up-to-date insights, engaging content, and a streamlined application process.

“This award is a huge compliment—especially because it shows that strategic design and authentic content together can truly bring a brand to life,” says Tina Kirfel, Managing Director of KITICON. “With SCHÖNES LEBEN, we created a digital stage that not only looks premium but also conveys a clear attitude: high-end, approachable, and consistently authentic. That was the ambition from the very beginning—and we are delighted to see it recognized.”

The collaboration itself was also a decisive success factor. Helen Bardtenschlager, Head of Marketing & Communications at SCHÖNES LEBEN Group, adds:

“We have been consistently building the SCHÖNES LEBEN brand for years—and with KITICON, we succeeded in translating this ambition perfectly into the digital space: emotional, clearly structured, and 100% authentic. From structure to look & feel, the team worked with exceptional clarity, responded quickly, and translated our content in a way that resonates emotionally while providing clear orientation. This combination truly makes the difference.”

‍

Worldia offers fully customisable modular travel packages and provides the travel trade with a digital B2B platform that makes planning complex itineraries simple and efficient. The company has been active on the German market for more than ten years, combining digital solutions with a dedicated support team based in Berlin.

Our task: to raise Worldia's profile within the travel industry, generate new platform sign-ups – and make the brand visible where it counts, in the relevant trade media.

Period: October 2025 to present

Industry: Travel & Tourism

Objective: Through consistent press work, Worldia was to become more visible among travel agents and decision-makers, and to position itself as a genuine alternative to the established providers in the market.

Services:

• Writing and distributing press releases
• Building and maintaining media relationships
• Press distribution list and distribution management
• Monitoring of relevant trade media and newsletters
• Concept and support for an ITB campaign

The challenge

Worldia operates in a market shaped by large, long-established competitors. Ten years in business – and still barely a topic in the relevant B2B trade media. That was our starting point: Worldia needed a continuous presence among the trade public, had to win over travel agencies and build lasting relationships with the key editorial teams.

Our approach

We began with a thorough analysis: which trade media are relevant, and how do their editorial and media plans work? On that basis, we developed a steady stream of suitable story ideas and aligned them with Worldia in regular jour fixe meetings.

Concept, copy and distribution of the press releases were entirely in our hands – via a press distribution list built specifically for Worldia. And because good relationships with journalists are never a one-off, we kept at it: consistent follow-up repeatedly secured additional placements.

Alongside the classic press work came a dedicated campaign around ITB. For this we designed a lead generation funnel including a ticket giveaway and a brunch event in cooperation with Cinnamood. The cooperation idea, the concept and all accompanying communications were handled entirely by us. A training session rounded off the event and delivered direct added value to the target group.

The result

Within the first year alone, it was clear that our strategy was paying off. Around 40 editorial features in travel trade media and industry newsletters speak for themselves – including publications in leading titles such as fvw|TravelTalk, Touristik aktuell, Counter vor9 and Reise vor9, tip Austria, TOP am Counter and TOUREXPI, partly editorial, partly through their associated newsletters. Added to this were an advertorial in T.A.I., a placement in the digital magazine of TRVL Counter and a mention of the Worldia webinars on the learning platform of the Junge Reiseprofis. Personal follow-up with journalists also proved especially valuable: individual contacts repeatedly turned into additional coverage.

The ITB campaign delivered measurable results too: more than 40 brunch registrations and over 50 entries to the accompanying prize draw generated not only reach, but above all valuable new contacts.

Today, Worldia enjoys a significantly stronger presence within the travel trade public – and has a robust network of media contacts that will benefit the company well into the future. Consistent press work, well-considered topic planning and an attention-grabbing ITB campaign together laid the foundation for this success – and form the basis for continuing to build Worldia's profile in the years ahead.

Munich, 3 September 2026. Signature Kollection Travel is adding AMOH, a Luxury Collection Resort, Rhodes to its Greece portfolio. The property opened in spring 2026 on a peninsula not far from Lindos. Shahab Kamali, founder and CEO of the Munich-based luxury tour operator, visited the resort himself a few weeks later before it was included in the company's travel planning.

Insights into Greek tradition
"My strongest impression of AMOH Rhodes was the garden. There are 276 olive trees on the grounds, and the architecture was planned around them, not the other way round," says Shahab Kamali. "Then there is the high-quality, stylishly selected furniture indoors and outdoors, elegant retreats by the beach and pool, and an exclusive cigar lounge with a custom-made humidor – things you only really appreciate on site and that underline the resort's exceptional standards. In culinary terms, the open-plan restaurant with its impressive glass roof stands out, as does the terrace of the Italian restaurant, which looks directly out over the historic excavation sites."
The olive trees on the grounds offer a unique insight into Greek nature. Six regionally refined olive varieties with notes of ouzo, rosemary, orange peel and Mediterranean herbs are served for tasting every day. On the Olive Oil Journey, guests can experience the centuries-old tradition of olive groves and native olive oil first-hand at a local producer.

Luxury resort with its own beach areas
Secluded on a peninsula in the south-east of Rhodes, the resort has its own sections of the sandy Kavos Beach and Kymata Beach, both within walking distance. Above them rise terraced levels overlooking the Aegean, home to the resort's 197 rooms and suites. They range from around 32 to 178 square metres; many open towards the sea, and some have their own pool. For a particularly exclusive stay, there is the Rhoda Presidential Suite: it separates the living and sleeping areas and leads via a spacious private terrace to its own pool.
The peninsula is located so that days by the water and excursions across the island can be combined without changing hotels. The drive there already takes you past the Acropolis of Lindos; the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town of Rhodes, Anthony Quinn Bay and the sandy strip of Prasonisi are well suited for day trips.

On the selection of properties
New openings in the top luxury segment can hardly be judged from documents alone. Whether a property works becomes clear from its pathways, materials and processes, and from how architecture and grounds interact. Signature Kollection Travel therefore works with a deliberately limited number of properties and visits them personally before recommending them.
Signature Kollection Travel plans not just the hotel stay but the entire trip to Greece – flights and transfers, excursions with private guides, restaurant visits outside the resort and, if desired, a combination with other islands or Athens. You can find more information here.

Stolberg, 20 August 2026 – Travel agencies work with a wide variety of mid-office solutions, and tour operators have to support all of them. milzer GmbH has now integrated five of these systems for TUI tours: Midoco, ZIEL, myJACK, ARGUS and .BOSYS. This means TUI tours covers a large share of the mid-office landscape used in German-speaking travel distribution and can exchange booking data automatically with travel agencies and sales partners. milzer was responsible for the concept, technical implementation and integration.

Fewer manual steps at the travel agency
‍
Going forward, booking information from TUI tours will be transferred directly into the mid-office system the respective travel agency already works with, where it is available for further processing. There is no longer any need to transfer data by hand or copy it over from another system. Crucially, the agencies do not have to change their workflows. They stay in their familiar environment, and the data comes to them.
This was precisely the aim of the joint project: to further automate TUI tours' sales processes and make connecting sales partners as seamless as possible.

One central architecture instead of five separate solutions
‍
Each of the five systems comes with its own technical requirements and data structures, and that was the real challenge of the project. milzer therefore brings the integrations together in a central architecture, standardises the relevant data and forwards it to the respective target system. For TUI tours, this means a single connection point instead of five separate integration logics within its own infrastructure. Further technical requirements can be implemented on the same foundation rather than having to be set up from scratch each time.
‍
The project thus reflects the role milzer defines for itself: the travel industry already has a wide range of established, high-performing systems. What is missing is rarely yet another system. What is needed is a reliable connection between the existing ones. This is exactly where milzer comes in as an integration partner.
‍
"By integrating Midoco, ZIEL, myJACK, ARGUS and .BOSYS, we have jointly taken an important step," explains Michael Eberlei, Managing Director of milzer. "Our aim is to bring complex system landscapes in tourism together in a simple way and to take technical hurdles out of the day-to-day business of our customers and their sales partners."

Close coordination throughout the project
‍
Thorsten Kühne was responsible for the project at TUI tours. According to those involved, the short lines of communication between the two teams were a key factor in its success.
"What mattered most to us was that our sales partners could integrate TUI tours directly into their existing processes," emphasises Thorsten Kühne. "Working with milzer was collaborative, pragmatic and solution-oriented throughout. This allowed us to implement the integrations in a structured way and create a solid technical foundation for our sales operations."
With the five integrations now in place, the groundwork has been laid to further automate data exchange between tour operator and sales partners and to noticeably streamline processes in travel agency sales.
For more information on milzer's mid-office integrations, visit https://milzer.de/.

Our position as an agency is clear – and it is backed by data: Classic SEO remains the foundation for visibility in AI systems. What is changing is the weighting of individual disciplines, not their fundamental relevance. In this article, we show what the current research actually proves, where the rules of the game are shifting, and what companies should concretely do now.

"In today's SEO landscape, we find ourselves between classic search results and AI-generated answers. Success comes from strategically adapting to this new reality. That's why at KITICON, we focus on content that fulfills search intent, strong user signals, and digital PR to make your brand more visible across channels in both search and answer engines."

In this article, you will learn:

• which AI systems can actually be influenced by SEO measures,
• how strong the demonstrable link between classic SEO and AI citations is,
• how the weighting of individual SEO disciplines is shifting,
• which concrete measures offer the greatest leverage today.

In brief: Visibility in AI answers doesn't start with AI-specific tricks, but with the classic SEO foundation – clean technology, content depth, and authority through links. Only once AI systems can actually find your content in their search results does fine-tuning pay off. You can read about the finer points suggested by current research further below.

KITICON supports you as an experienced partner SEO and Generative Engine Optimization (GEO).

Which AI Systems Can Actually Be Optimized?

The digital landscape is changing: generative AI applications such as ChatGPT, Claude, or Perplexity could soon take significant market share from traditional search engines. For businesses, the crucial question is: How do we stay visible when users no longer get their information only from search engines, but directly from AI-powered answer engines?

The terms Large Language Model Optimization (LLMO), Generative Engine Optimization (GEO), and Answer Engine Optimization (AEO) address exactly this challenge – they describe the logical evolution of SEO in the age of generative AI. LLMO refers to optimization for large language models as a whole, GEO focuses on optimization for generative AI search systems, and AEO describes targeted optimization for direct answers – for example in AI Overviews or featured snippets. In our experience, the three disciplines overlap to a very large extent in practice: the levers are largely identical; the difference lies in the final format of the answer.

‍

‍

Before we discuss the relationship between SEO and AI visibility, one fundamental distinction needs to be made – because not every AI system can be influenced to the same degree.

Technically speaking, AI systems work in two very different ways:

Classic large language models (LLMs) without web access generate answers exclusively from their training data. Their knowledge is "frozen" at a fixed knowledge cutoff. They do not actively access the web, but generate answers based on the statistical patterns they learned during training. Example: ChatGPT in classic mode without web search enabled, or Claude without tool use. Here, classic SEO measures do not help in the short term – the content would already have had to be part of the dataset in an earlier training phase in order to be reproduced.

RAG systems with grounding (retrieval-augmented generation), by contrast, combine a language model with a live web search. They break the user query down into multiple sub-queries, retrieve current web content, and use it as the basis for the generated answer. This category includes Google AI Overviews, Google Gemini with Search, ChatGPT Search, Perplexity, and Microsoft Copilot. These systems can be actively influenced by SEO measures – because they access exactly the content that is also indexed in classic search engines.

This distinction is crucial: All statements about the relationship between SEO and AI visibility refer to RAG systems with grounding functionality. For pure LLMs without web access, the influence runs through a different, much slower channel – namely whether and how your content and your brand are included in the dataset during the next model training. This lever works through brand awareness, consistent mentions on authoritative platforms, and topical presence on the web – not through short-term SEO measures.

The good news: Virtually all AI systems currently gaining relevant market share now use grounding. Google AI Overviews and AI Mode are retrieval-based, Perplexity has been designed retrieval-first from the outset, and ChatGPT automatically activates web search for current or specific questions. This means: The most relevant lever for AI visibility today is in fact exactly what classic SEO has always addressed.

‍

The Key Insight: Grounding-Based AI Systems Preferentially Cite What Is Already Visible in Search Engines

For RAG systems with grounding, the question "Is AI visibility linked to classic SEO visibility?" can be answered empirically – and the answer is yes. The correlation varies by platform, but it is measurable:

Google AI Overviews: An Ahrefs analysis of 1.9 million AIO citations found that 76 percent of cited pages rank in Google's top 10. Over a period of 16 months, BrightEdge documented that the overlap between AIO sources and organic rankings overall grew from 32 to 54 percent – and in YMYL sectors even to 68 to 75 percent (healthcare 75.3%, education 72.6%, insurance 68.6%), while e-commerce remained virtually unchanged at 22.9 percent. An important point of context: this figure measures the overlap with organic rankings overall, i.e., including positions 11 to 100. Only around 17 percent of citations come from the top 10 for the same query.

Perplexity: A 2024 BrightEdge analysis found a 60 percent overlap between Perplexity citations and Google's top 10, and as much as 82 percent in the healthcare sector. More recent data from Ahrefs (15,000 prompts, July 2025) is significantly lower at around 29 percent – so while Perplexity remains the platform most closely aligned with Google, the relationship has weakened here as well.

ChatGPT with web search enabled: An SE Ranking analysis of 129,000 domains and 216,524 pages identified the number of referring domains as the strongest single factor: sites with up to 2,500 referring domains receive an average of 1.6 to 1.8 ChatGPT citations, while sites with more than 350,000 referring domains reach 8.4 citations. A smaller study by Seer Interactive (500+ citations, February 2025) found an 87 percent overlap with Bing's top results in active browsing mode. This figure should be treated with caution: it is based on a much smaller sample, and there are indications that ChatGPT has since shifted its retrieval sources.

The logic behind this is simple: A RAG system runs a search query in the background, evaluates the results, and uses them as the basis for the generated answer. Whether a human or an AI performs this search, the mechanisms of source selection are based on the same fundamental principles: relevance, authority, trust, and clear structure. Being present in search engines measurably increases the likelihood of also being cited in the AI answers of these grounding-based systems.

‍

‍

But: The Weighting of SEO Disciplines Is Shifting

This is where things get more nuanced. While the relationship between SEO visibility and AI citation is well documented, the relative importance of individual levers within the classic SEO stack is shifting. Three observations are key:

‍

1. The overlap between top 10 rankings and AIO citations is declining

A follow-up Ahrefs study (863,000 keywords, 4 million AIO URLs, February 2026) shows that the share of AIO citations from Google's top 10 has fallen from 76 percent (July 2025) to 38 percent. The remaining citations are spread almost evenly between positions 11 to 100 (31.2%) and pages beyond position 100 (31.0%). Ahrefs itself points out that part of this decline is due to improved citation detection in its own tooling – so the two datasets are not directly comparable. The direction of the trend, however, is independently confirmed by other providers. Google is increasingly drawing on sources that do not rank on page 1 – an effect of so-called query fan-out, in which a single user query is broken down into several semantically related sub-queries. The consequence: A pure top 10 strategy for a single main keyword is no longer sufficient. Topical breadth and depth are becoming more important.

‍

2. Brand mentions and digital authority outperform pure backlink metrics

Ahrefs analyzed 75,000 brands and found that brand mentions correlate with AIO visibility with a Spearman coefficient of 0.664, while classic backlinks show a correlation of only 0.218. This makes brand mentions roughly three times as predictive as pure link metrics. An expanded study from December 2025 confirms the pattern across all three major AI platforms: branded web mentions come in at 0.664 for AI Overviews, 0.709 for Google AI Mode, and 0.656 for ChatGPT. YouTube mentions even show the strongest single correlation (~0.737). This does not mean that backlinks have become irrelevant – they continue to have an effect via rankings, which in turn create AIO eligibility. But they are no longer the dominant lever for pure AI visibility. Brand mentions are also the lever that has a long-term effect on pure LLMs without web access – via the training data path.

‍

3. Platforms work differently

An Ahrefs analysis of 15,000 prompts shows that only 12 percent of ChatGPT, Gemini, and Copilot citations overlap with Google's top 10. For Perplexity, the figure is around 30 percent. ChatGPT and Claude often prefer niche expert publications with topical depth (Investopedia, Wired, GitHub, Coursera, Edmunds) over generalist high-DA domains. A one-size-fits-all strategy for all platforms falls short.

‍

‍

The Four Pillars of SEO in the AI Era

Our recommendation as an agency is not to turn away from classic SEO, but to deliberately rebalance the four core disciplines: structure, technology, content, and Digital Authority Management. These four pillars form the foundation of our SEO and GEO strategy – and they work exactly as the current body of research suggests.

‍

Structure

Structure remains the foundation – and, since the Google API leak of May 2024, it is at least documented. The leak revealed that Google's internal Content Warehouse documentation includes attributes for topical focus: siteFocusScore (how strongly a site concentrates on a core topic), siteRadius (how far an individual page deviates from the core topic), and siteAuthority (the domain authority that Google has publicly denied for years but that is documented in the code). These signals are calculated using so-called site2vec embeddings, which map a website profile in semantic space.

The practical implication is clear: A well-thought-out URL architecture, topical segmentation (siloing), a clear navigation structure, and consistent internal linking ensure that search engines and AI systems can grasp the topical relevance and depth of a website in the first place. In its 2025 ranking factors update, First Page Sage lists "niche expertise" – defined as at least 10 authoritative pages on a shared topic cluster – as the fourth strongest factor at around 13 percent. This is an expert assessment by the agency based on its own project experience, not a correlation measurement. The effect is, however, empirically supported by a Graphite study (332 URLs, 12 domains): content on domains with high topical authority gains visibility 57 percent faster, has a 62 percent higher probability of generating traffic in the first week, and reaches impression milestones 30 percent faster. The study measures classic organic visibility, not AI citations – the connection to AI visibility arises indirectly via rankings.

Particularly in the context of query fan-out – where AI systems break a user query down into several sub-queries – topical authority across interconnected topic clusters becomes the decisive factor. A website with a clean structural setup serves not just a single keyword, but an entire semantic field.

‍

Technology

Technology remains a must. Crawlability, indexability, loading speed, and clean sitemap structures are the prerequisite for both search engines and AI crawlers (GPTBot, OAI-SearchBot, Perplexity-Bot, Google-Extended) to be able to process content at all. Structured data via Schema.org is not a direct ranking factor – Google has confirmed this several times – but it supports machine interpretability and thus the likelihood of being cited in AI Overviews. A Search Engine Land experiment with three test pages showed that only the page with correctly implemented schema appeared in an AI Overview – with a sample size this small, this is an indication, not proof. Conversely, the SE Ranking analysis of 129,000 domains found that pages without FAQ schema actually received slightly more ChatGPT citations on average (4.2 versus 3.6). The two findings contradict each other less than it seems: Google AI Overviews work with the index and the Knowledge Graph and can evaluate markup, whereas ChatGPT accesses visible page content. For Google's systems, schema therefore remains useful; for pure retrieval engines, it is not a lever.

‍

Content

Content remains central, but its format is shifting. AI systems prefer so-called answer-first structures: the direct answer to a question appears in the first 1–2 sentences of a section, followed by context and evidence. An analysis by Kevin Indig showed that 44.2 percent of all citations come from the first 30 percent of a text, 31.1 percent from the middle, and only 24.7 percent from the final third (the "ski ramp distribution"). The analysis is based on 18,012 verified citations, isolated from a dataset of around 1.2 million ChatGPT responses and traced back to their respective source sentences using sentence transformer embeddings. Concrete figures, data, and source references measurably increase the likelihood of being cited: The Princeton GEO paper (Aggarwal et al., KDD 2024) tested nine optimization methods across 10,000 queries. The three most effective – adding source citations, incorporating quotations, and integrating statistics – each achieved a relative improvement of 30 to 40 percent on the position-adjusted word count metric and 15 to 30 percent on the subjective impression metric. Keyword stuffing, by contrast, had no effect whatsoever. The study tested a simulated generative engine based on GPT-3.5; the order of magnitude is transferable, while the exact values apply to the system at the time. In addition to classic keyword research, prompt research is also gaining importance: What questions do users ask AI chatbots? What sub-queries result from them? These insights feed directly into the content strategy.

‍

Digital Authority Management

Digital Authority Management is becoming the most important discipline in the AI era – and at the same time the only lever that works across both paths: via grounding in retrieval-based systems and via training data in pure LLMs. Digital Authority Management encompasses far more than classic link building. It is about the targeted building of digital authority through:

• High-quality backlinks from directories, chambers of commerce, guest articles, specialist blogs, and forums
• Citations and brand mentions in trade articles, studies, and relevant industry media – they strengthen trust and E-E-A-T signals
• Linkable assets such as white papers, infographics, tools, or original data, which AI systems preferentially use as references
• Multi-platform presence on Reddit, LinkedIn, YouTube, G2, Capterra, Trustpilot, and topical expert publications

The data supports this: The SE Ranking analysis of 129,000 domains shows that brands with a strong discussion presence on Reddit and Quora receive around four times as many ChatGPT citations as brands that are rarely mentioned. Domains with profiles on review platforms such as Trustpilot, G2, or Capterra are roughly three times as likely to be cited. A Stacker study (215 stories, 75 brands, 8 AI platforms, January to March 2026) shows a clear relationship between Domain Rating and citation rate: pickups by publishers in the DR 81 cluster were cited in AI answers in 43 percent of cases, pickups from the DR 62 cluster in only 2 percent. However, the correlation of r=0.99 reported by Stacker refers to the averages of just four publisher clusters, not to the individual stories – the direction is robust, but the strength of the correlation should not be overinterpreted. Quality beats quantity more clearly than ever. The latest Muck Rack analysis (May 2026) evaluated more than 25 million links cited by ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini across 17 industries: 84 percent of all AI citations come from earned media – i.e., from journalism, research, government and encyclopedic sources, and third-party content. Paid and advertorial content accounts for 0.3 percent. Across all three editions of the study since July 2025, this figure has remained stable at between 82 and 89 percent.

‍

‍

Our Agency Position: An Integrated Strategy Instead of a Buzzword Discipline

In practice, we see two common mistakes:

The first is declaring classic SEO obsolete and reinventing "GEO" as an isolated discipline with its own secret hacks. That sells well, but it ignores the documented data: the correlation between organic visibility and AI citation in retrieval-based systems is real and in some cases very strong.

The second mistake is the opposite: continuing to define pure top 10 rankings for individual keywords as the KPI and ignoring the structural shift. The correlation exists, but it is weakening. Anyone who still claims in 2026 that "good SEO is enough" is overlooking the demonstrable shift toward brand mentions, topical depth, and multi-platform presence – and is also underestimating the share of pure LLM usage that is not served via grounding.

Our position is neither. We treat SEO and AI visibility as an integrated strategy with clearly weighted levers: a solid structural and technical foundation, answer-optimized content with topical depth, targeted Digital Authority Management via backlinks, citations, and brand mentions, and platform-specific optimization wherever it demonstrably makes a difference.

It is not the fastest approach – but it is the one that holds up against current research.

‍

‍

What Google Officially Clarified on May 15, 2026

Since mid-May 2026, this assessment is no longer just our view, but also Google's official position. On May 15, 2026, Google published "Optimizing your website for generative AI features on Google Search," its first canonical guide to optimizing for AI Overviews and AI Mode. The key statement reads verbatim: "From Google Search's perspective, optimizing for generative AI search is optimizing for the search experience, and thus still SEO."

The guide includes a dedicated "mythbusting" section in which Google explicitly declares five popular GEO tactics irrelevant: separate llms.txt files, breaking content into bite-sized pieces ("chunking"), rewriting content specifically for AI readability, buying staged brand mentions, and an obsession with schema without any discernible benefit. An Ahrefs study from June 2026 backs this up with clear figures: of 137,210 domains examined, 28 percent had an llms.txt file in place – and 97 percent of these files did not receive a single request in May 2026. For the remaining three percent, only around 1.1 percent of requests came from AI retrieval bots; the rest came mainly from SEO audit tools.

For us as an agency, this official clarification is a welcome confirmation – and at the same time an important differentiator. We don't sell GEO hacks, because the data speaks against them. What we do is exactly what Google's own recommendations actively support: unique, experience-based content, clean structure and technology, and the targeted building of digital authority through authentic third-party coverage. It is precisely these four pillars – structure, technology, content, and Digital Authority Management – that form the foundation of our SEO/GEO roadmap.

Platform-specific differentiation remains important: Google's guide refers explicitly to its own surfaces (AI Overviews, AI Mode). Similar basic principles apply to ChatGPT, Perplexity, and Claude, but the requirements are not identical. Independent studies on these platforms point in the same direction, but are not yet conclusively canonical. Serious GEO consulting recognizes this difference – and does not sell universal hacks where platform-specific analysis is needed.

‍

Fine-Tuning for AI Search

The following measures are derived from the studies cited above. They are additive and exploratory: the data shows correlations, not causation. What makes sense in any individual case depends on industry, competition, and objectives, and should be coordinated with your SEO team. SE Ranking itself points out that the factors are interdependent – over-optimizing a single one while ignoring the others worsens the overall result.

‍

Accessibility for AI systems

Check whether AI crawlers can get through to you. Allow GPTBot, OAI-SearchBot, PerplexityBot, ClaudeBot, and Google-Extended in your robots.txt – and then check in your server logs whether the requests are actually answered with a 200 status code. The Otterly AI Citations Report (February 2026), which evaluated more than one million citations, found that 73 percent of sites had technical barriers to access by AI crawlers – mostly robots.txt rules, CDN configurations, or JavaScript rendering. The most common cause is rules that nobody deliberately set up for AI crawlers.

Check the source code, not the rendered page. A joint study by Vercel and MERJ (December 2024) found no evidence that the major AI crawlers execute JavaScript. GPTBot fetches JavaScript files in 11.50 percent of requests, ClaudeBot in 23.84 percent – neither of them executes it. Among the major crawlers, only Googlebot renders JavaScript – and with it Google Gemini. The simplest test: open the page, view the source code, and search for a sentence from the main content. If it isn't there, these systems can't see it.

‍

Page structure

Put the answer first. 44.2 percent of all citations come from the first 30 percent of a text, 31.1 percent from the middle, and only 24.7 percent from the final third. The direct answer belongs in the first one to two sentences of a section.

Don't write mini-sections. In the SE Ranking analysis, sections of 120 to 180 words between two headings received an average of 4.6 citations, while very short sections under 50 words received only 2.7. Sections over 180 words performed even slightly better at 5.7 – SE Ranking attributes this to more comprehensive topic coverage. The robust finding is therefore: not too short. The widely promoted practice of chopping content into tiny pieces is counterproductive according to this data – and Google advises against it in its own guide anyway.

‍

Writing style

Include statistics. Pages with 19 or more data points received an average of 5.4 citations, pages with minimal data density 2.8.

Include expert quotes. Pages with quotes from named experts received 4.1 citations, pages without 2.4.

Cite sources. The Princeton GEO paper identified source citations, quotations, and statistics as the three most effective of the nine methods tested, each with a relative improvement of 30 to 40 percent.

Important context: SE Ranking rates the effect of statistics and quotes as comparatively small relative to factors such as authority or traffic. They are indicators of content quality, not a standalone lever.

Write clearly. In the analysis of verified citations, cited content scored well below the level of lower-performing content on the readability measure. Shorter sentences and simple sentence structures beat dense technical prose. Keyword stuffing, on the other hand, had no effect in the Princeton paper and performed slightly negatively on Perplexity.

‍

Topic coverage

Think in sub-questions rather than keywords. In the AirOps analysis of 548,534 retrieved pages, 32.9 percent of all cited pages came exclusively from the results of the sub-questions – they were never found via the original user query. 89.6 percent of the queries analyzed triggered at least two sub-questions.

Avoid over-optimized titles and URLs. One of the most surprising findings of the SE Ranking analysis: titles with a very high semantic match to the target keyword received an average of 2.8 citations, broadly phrased titles 5.9. The same pattern emerges for URLs. A title that describes the topic beats one that has been optimized for a keyword.

Substance beats brevity. Content with more than 2,900 words received an average of 5.1 citations, thin content under 800 words 3.2.

‍

Freshness

Maintain your existing content. Content updated within the last three months received an average of 6.0 citations, outdated content 3.6. Notably, age alone plays hardly any role – brand-new content received 3.6, content one to five years old 3.1. What matters is maintenance, not the publication date.

‍

Presence beyond your own website

Review and comparison platforms. Domains with profiles on Trustpilot, G2, Capterra, Sitejabber, or Yelp achieved 4.6 to 6.3 citations, domains without such profiles 1.8.

Specialist communities. On Quora, the range extends from 1.7 citations with minimal presence to 7.0 with very high presence; on Reddit, from 1.8 to 7.0. The upper end, however, is measured in millions of mentions – not an achievable goal for mid-sized brands, but it does indicate the direction.

YouTube. In December 2025, Ahrefs identified brand mentions on YouTube as the strongest single correlation across all three major AI platforms.

Editorial coverage. According to the Muck Rack analysis of more than 25 million cited links, 84 percent come from sources the brand does not own.

‍

Measurement

Change your KPIs. Ranking positions alone no longer reflect AI visibility. Meaningful metrics include share of mentions within a topic area, the frequency of brand mentions, and their sentiment. Server log analysis also helps: Which AI crawlers access which pages, and with which status code?

‍

Conclusion: SEO Remains the Foundation – but the Weighting Is Shifting

The shift toward AI-powered search is not a short-term change. Visibility no longer comes exclusively from classic rankings, but additionally from the likelihood of being cited as a source in generated answers. The good news: For all relevant AI systems with grounding functionality, this likelihood is demonstrably linked to classic SEO visibility.

Companies that keep SEO as their foundation while also investing in Digital Authority Management, topical depth, and platform-specific presence can secure decisive competitive advantages. KITICON supports companies on this journey – with an integrated strategy of structure, technology, content, and Digital Authority Management that relies on verifiable data rather than buzzwords.

Munich, 3 August 2026. Signature Kollection Travel is expanding its services with Private Jet Journey Design for discerning private travel. The new offering treats private jet charter not as a standalone flight service, but as part of a journey planned as a whole – from the choice of aircraft and the most suitable destination airport through to discreet transfers, exceptional accommodation and personal service on the ground. It is designed for guests who value privacy, flexibility, time gained and a particularly smooth journey.

Private Jet Journey Design: Luxury Travel as One Complete Experience

Signature Kollection Travel approaches private jet travel as a curated whole. The flight is not the outcome of the planning but its starting point: what matters is how the journey out, the routing, the accommodation and the experiences on the ground work together. The private jet is built into the itinerary in a way that avoids extra overnight stays and long layovers, while travellers gain comfort and time at the destination.

A private jet can open up new possibilities above all for family trips, travel with a dog, multi-stop luxury itineraries or stays in remote villas, lodges and chalets. It shortens journeys, allows for greater discretion and brings guests closer to places that scheduled connections often reach only by a roundabout route. A particular focus lies on curated multi-destination private jet journeys, which suit families or groups of friends especially well.

"Private jet travel means far more than flying in exclusivity. It makes a different kind of travel possible: more flexible, more private and closer to the places our guests genuinely want to experience. Our aim is to fit every single element individually into the itinerary and create an exceptional experience as a whole," explains Shahab Kamali, CEO and founder of Signature Kollection Travel.

‍Aviation expertise in partnership with ALTAVIA

For the operational side of flight planning, Signature Kollection Travel works with the aviation specialists at ALTAVIA. The partnership combines curated luxury travel planning with flight expertise and allows aircraft, route, crew, cabin comfort and destination airport to be selected precisely.

The choice of aircraft depends on the destination, the distance, the number of guests and the atmosphere wanted on board. A Bombardier Challenger 604, with its generous cabin and long range, suits longer distances or travel with a private group, while the Pilatus PC-12 NGX opens up access to smaller airfields, Alpine destinations and secluded retreats that scheduled connections often reach only by a roundabout route.

‍A seamless arrival, all the way to the private retreat

A central part of Private Jet Journey Design is planning the arrival in full. Signature Kollection Travel considers which airport offers the most agreeable route to the accommodation, and how onward travel, baggage handling and the welcome on arrival can be arranged as seamlessly as possible. On request, chauffeur service, helicopter transfer or an onward yacht connection are built in, as are check-in, private chef, butler service and personal requests at the destination.

Travel with a dog is prepared well in advance too. Route, entry requirements, the necessary documents and the option of carriage in the cabin are checked case by case, so that the journey is calm, comfortable and responsible for guests and animal alike.

You can find further information about private jet travel with Signature Kollection Travel here.

The SCHÖNES LEBEN Group provides premium serviced living for older people, with a strong focus on comfort, independence and individual quality of life. This also includes a particularly emotional consideration: residents’ pets. While many senior living and care facilities only allow animals under certain conditions—or require residents to move in without their trusted companions—pets are explicitly welcome at SCHÖNES LEBEN.

However, this powerful USP had not previously been given sufficient visibility online. For many older people and their families, the prospect of having to give up a beloved dog or cat when moving into a senior residence is a significant concern and a key factor in the decision-making process. Our task was therefore to reach this specific target group through a dedicated SEO landing page, build trust and transform an emotional challenge into a clear and reassuring decision-making resource.

Project period: Launched in mid-August 2025 · Measurement period: approximately ten months

Industry: Serviced senior living, senior residences and care

Objective: Achieve top visibility for searches relating to senior living and senior residences that welcome pets, generate qualified organic traffic and concrete enquiries, and clearly differentiate the USP “Pets are explicitly welcome here” from competing providers.

Services:

• Target audience, pain point and search intent analysis
• Keyword, competitor and search engine results page research
• Development of the SEO content brief, including page structure, FAQs and tone of voice
• On-page, metadata and keyword cannibalisation optimisation
• Pre-launch review and ongoing performance monitoring

The Challenge: For many older people, a pet is far more than a companion. It provides structure, closeness, responsibility and enjoyment in everyday life. An upcoming move into a senior residence is therefore often accompanied by the distressing question of whether a dog, cat or other pet will be allowed to move with them—or whether they will have to be given up.

This presented a clear opportunity for the SCHÖNES LEBEN Group. Pets are not merely permitted in its residences; they are actively welcomed. However, this relevant differentiator had not previously been developed into a dedicated, search-engine-optimised topic.

The challenge was to create a page that met two requirements equally well. It needed to address the genuine search intent behind terms such as “assisted living with a dog”, “senior residence with pets” and “care home with animals”, while also providing reassurance and emotional security. After all, users are not simply looking for accommodation. They are searching for a new home where they can continue living together with their pet.

Our Approach: We began with an in-depth analysis of the target audience, search behaviour and competitive landscape. Our focus was on older people and their families for whom a potential separation from a pet represents a major emotional barrier when considering a suitable form of senior living. The keyword, search intent and SERP analysis revealed significant potential around topics such as “assisted living with a dog” and “senior residence with pets”. At the same time, the competing content available was fragmented and often failed to provide convincing or comprehensive answers.

Based on these findings, we developed a detailed SEO content brief featuring a clear page structure, heading hierarchy, metadata, a proposed search snippet and an extensive FAQ section. The tone of voice, form of address and wording were designed to communicate warmth, reassurance and appreciation while clearly conveying the central USP: at SCHÖNES LEBEN, pets are not treated as an exception. They are considered a natural part of a fulfilling life in later years.

We also incorporated trust-building content explaining the positive impact animals can have on wellbeing and quality of life. The final copywriting and implementation in Elementor were completed by the client based on our brief. We supported the handover, conducted a keyword cannibalisation check against existing content relating to animals and respite care, and reviewed the page before launch. Additional elements—including guidance on responsible dog ownership, a “Pet Lovers Welcome” quality seal and multiple consultation calls to action—further strengthened trust and conversion potential.

Results: The landing page went live in mid-August 2025 and has since delivered strong organic results:

• 2,614 clicks
• 32,275 impressions
• 8.1% click-through rate
• Average search position of 5

Across the measurement period of approximately ten months, this represents an average of around 260 clicks per month, with a continued upward trend. Visibility has grown consistently and is currently at its highest level since launch.
‍

A key factor behind this development was the topic-cluster approach. Rather than focusing solely on a single, narrowly defined primary keyword, the page covers a broader range of topics relating to assisted living with dogs and other pets. These related searches generate the majority of the traffic and attract users who already have a specific informational or enquiry-driven intent.
‍

The result is an SEO landing page that clearly positions a relevant USP, addresses emotional barriers and takes the needs of older people and their families seriously. Through a consistent content narrative, a comprehensive FAQ section and conversion-focused contact points, the message “Pets Welcome” becomes a tangible competitive advantage—driving greater visibility, increased trust and more qualified enquiries.

Is Your Company’s Key Differentiator Still Not Visible Enough Online? We develop SEO content strategies that reach relevant target audiences and transform search queries into tangible business opportunities.

Kreuzfahrtberater GmbH is a successful online provider of cruises worldwide. Cabins play a key role in the booking decision, with size, amenities, location and onboard atmosphere being important considerations for many customers.

Together with Kreuzfahrtberater, we are developing a multi-part cabin tour series for YouTube Shorts and other social media channels. Using supplied raw footage, we produce short, informative and engaging videos that enable viewers to compare different cabin types across a range of cruise lines and gain a realistic impression of the onboard experience.

Project period: December 2025 – ongoing

‍Industry: Tourism / Cruises

Objectives: The aim of the project is to help prospective cruise guests choose the cabin and cruise line that best meet their needs. The videos are designed to communicate relevant information quickly, clearly and engagingly—on the channels where potential customers look for information and inspiration.

At the same time, the format strengthens Kreuzfahrtberater’s position as a trusted cruise expert by providing practical insights, useful comparisons and educational entertainment that helps customers navigate their booking options.

Services

• Development of storyboards for each cabin tour
• Post-production of supplied raw footage
• Concept development and production of a multi-part YouTube Shorts series
• Adaptation of videos for additional social media channels
• Integration of a brand-compliant outro
• Editing, structuring and visual optimisation for short, attention-grabbing formats

‍

‍

The Challenge: Cabin videos need to communicate the most important information within just a few seconds while also capturing the viewer’s interest. The key challenge is to clearly highlight the distinctive features of different cruise lines and cabin categories without overwhelming the audience with information.

Another challenge is the continuous production schedule. Cruise travellers expect up-to-date insights into different ships, cabins and travel options. Content therefore needs to be produced quickly without compromising quality, brand consistency or clarity.

Our Approach: Based on the supplied video footage, we develop a clear narrative structure for each cabin tour. The clips are edited to ensure that key information about the cabin’s size, amenities and special features is immediately accessible.

Precise editing, a clear sequence and optimisation for short-form platforms result in videos that are both informative and engaging. A brand-compliant outro ensures a consistent brand presence across all episodes and channels. Close coordination with Kreuzfahrtberater’s project contact enables us to implement briefs efficiently and publish new content promptly.

Strategic Framework: The cabin tour series is based on four core principles:

Informative – Communicating relevant cabin information quickly and clearly

Comparable – Presenting different cabins and cruise lines in a transparent and accessible way

Engaging – Creating educational entertainment that combines useful information with inspiration

Up to date – Continuously providing new insights while maintaining a high content output

Results: The cabin tour series has created a flexible social media format that delivers tangible value to prospective cruise travellers. The short videos make it easier to select the right cabin and clearly illustrate the differences between cruise lines and ships.

High engagement rates demonstrate that the content resonates with the target audience. At the same time, Kreuzfahrtberater can further strengthen its position as a trusted advisor and build confidence in the booking process through authentic and practical insights.

The ongoing collaboration makes it possible to respond quickly to new topics, ships and cabin categories, while continuously providing potential customers with current insights into the world of cruising.

Worldia is expanding its insurance offering for the retail travel trade and introducing a new cruise cancellation insurance. This means that travel services booked through Worldia will also be covered in future if the cruise itself was booked directly with a cruise line or another operator. The extended cover applies in the event of cancellations, itinerary changes, delays and changes to the end of the trip, helping travel agencies to offer their customers a reliable solution even when the unforeseen happens.

More security for combined cruise trips

Many travel agencies combine cruises with individually assembled pre- and post-cruise programmes. These include flights, hotels, transfers or additional modules that can be booked through Worldia. If changes occur to the cruise, Worldia handles the organisation and – depending on the insured event – the resulting costs for necessary rebookings or replacement services.

The new cover applies, for example, when a cruise is cancelled or its itinerary changed, when the end of the trip shifts, or when flight delays mean that embarkation is missed. If a guest returns late from a shore excursion, Worldia likewise organises onward travel and covers any additional costs required, such as transport or accommodation.

"With our new cruise cancellation insurance, we are creating additional security for our sales partners and taking pressure off them when something goes wrong. Our teams take over the coordination of the services booked through Worldia, so that travel agencies and their customers quickly receive a suitable solution," says Lisa Gerbens, Deputy Managing Director of Worldia Germany.

Flexible combinations around the cruise

Cover requires that the outbound and return journey, along with at least one hotel night both before and after the cruise, are booked through Worldia. In addition, the full booking reference of the externally booked cruise must be recorded in the Worldia booking.

At the same time, Worldia is expanding its trip planning options: travel advisors will in future be able to enter various cruises – river cruises on the Rhine, for instance – as an empty leg in the system, making it even easier to combine individual pre- and post-cruise programmes with cruises booked elsewhere.

Masterclass for travel agencies

To familiarise sales partners with the new solution, Worldia will present the cruise cancellation insurance in a Masterclass on Wednesday 22 July at 11:00. Alongside the insurance product, travel advisors will also receive an overview of ready-made itinerary suggestions for pre- and post-cruise programmes.

Registration and further information are available here.

Munich, 3 July 2026. Signature Kollection Travel is opening up Japan as a new destination for individually curated travel in the ultra-luxury segment. The portfolio comprises selected addresses from Aman, Capella, Patina and Waldorf Astoria – including Aman Tokyo, Aman Kyoto, Amanemu, Janu Tokyo, Capella Kyoto, Patina Osaka and Waldorf Astoria Osaka.

The focus is on hotels and resorts defined by their architecture, discretion, privacy and close connection to their respective destination. On this basis, Signature Kollection Travel develops individually planned journeys with a personal signature, tailored to the interests and rhythm of each guest.

Recommendations from personal experience‍

For Shahab Kamali, the recent trip to Japan was his first visit to the country – after decades in the international luxury travel industry. "Japan was one of the most intense travel experiences I have had in recent years," explains the owner of Signature Kollection Travel. "Private guides, encounters with local artists and individually guided museum visits gave me a very personal way in. Through a meditation with a monk, a traditional matcha ceremony and culinary highlights such as sushi, nigiri and freshly prepared Kobe beef, I discovered a side of Japan that I can now recommend from my own experience."

A curated portfolio between stillness, culture and urban energy

The selection combines highly private retreats, culturally rooted city hotels and contemporary urban addresses at the very top of the luxury segment. Depending on personal interests, stays in Tokyo, Kyoto, Ise-Shima and Osaka can be combined individually – with room for art, architecture, cuisine, wellness, nature and personal encounters.

Two examples illustrate the range of the portfolio: Aman Tokyo combines the dynamism of the metropolis with an almost contemplative calm. A bonsai tree surrounded by water, the soaring atrium and sweeping views of the skyline, the Imperial Palace and Mount Fuji shape the stay. Capella Kyoto, meanwhile, brings together the atmosphere of a traditional machiya with contemporary design, art and craftsmanship in historic Miyagawa-chō. Personal experiences such as a geisha ceremony or curated encounters with art and culture open up immediate access to the ancient imperial city.

‍Journeys with room for personal interests

Although Signature Kollection Travel's Japan journeys follow no fixed route, selected itineraries offer initial inspiration. Alongside a 12-day journey from Tokyo to Osaka, Signature Kollection Travel recommends a 17-day route taking in Tokyo, Kyoto, Ise-Shima, Kōya-san, Nara and Osaka. It combines selected hotels with onsen culture, temple stays, nature experiences and special cultural encounters. Each of these routes serves purely as a starting point, however, and can be individually extended, adapted and tailored to a personal travel rhythm.

Further information on Signature Kollection Travel's individually curated Japan journeys and the properties in the portfolio can be found here.

Artificial Intelligence in Advertising: More Efficient Campaigns Through Data

Advertising campaigns are no longer based on assumptions but on data. AI analyzes user behavior in real time and determines which message should be delivered and when.

The result: higher relevance, better click-through rates, and more efficient use of your budget. Platforms already use intelligent algorithms for optimization — but the real value is created when you apply them strategically. This is exactly where KITICON supports you.
‍

‍

AI Fundamentals for Marketers: What You Should Know

You do not need deep technical expertise to successfully implement AI in marketing. However, a basic understanding of the most important concepts helps you make informed decisions and select the right tools.

One key principle is machine learning. These systems learn from data, recognize patterns, and make predictions based on them. In marketing, this means AI can analyze which audiences respond best to certain content or which actions are most likely to drive conversions.

Another important area is generative AI. This technology can independently create content — from text and images to videos. It helps you produce content faster and make creative processes more efficient.

With this foundational understanding, you will be able to evaluate AI tools more effectively and use them strategically. Instead of following short-term trends, you can make decisions that truly align with your business goals.
‍

‍

Benefits of AI in Marketing: Greater Efficiency and Better Results

AI delivers tangible benefits to everyday marketing activities:

• Automation saves time
• Personalization improves customer engagement
• Data-driven decisions increase success rates

As a result, marketing becomes not only faster but also more effective and targeted.

Understanding Customers Better with AI

One of the greatest advantages of AI in marketing is gaining a significantly deeper understanding of your audience. Instead of relying on assumptions or broad customer profiles, you gain concrete, data-driven insights into user behavior.

For example, you can identify which content truly attracts attention, which topics are consumed most frequently, and at which stages users abandon the purchasing process. At the same time, you gain visibility into how visitors interact with your website: which pages they visit, how long they stay, and which interactions ultimately lead to conversions.

These insights reveal optimization opportunities — whether in user journeys, content, or communication. Based on this information, you can adjust your marketing activities, reduce wasted effort, and use your resources more efficiently.
‍

‍

AI for SEO and Content Creation

Content remains one of the most important success factors in marketing — yet creating it is often time-consuming and resource-intensive. This is where AI demonstrates its strengths by making processes significantly more efficient and accelerating content production.

For example, AI can identify relevant topics and suggest keywords based on search data that genuinely interest your audience. It can also support content structuring by creating logical outlines or content frameworks. Additionally, AI can generate initial drafts that serve as a foundation and can later be refined individually.

The result: you save production time, publish more content in less time, and sustainably improve your search visibility — without compromising quality, provided content is strategically managed and editorially reviewed.
‍

‍

Practical Examples: How AI Is Successfully Used in Marketing

AI has already become part of everyday marketing and is successfully applied across many areas. Typical use cases demonstrate how measurable and practical the benefits are:

Automated campaign optimization:
AI continuously analyzes ad performance and adjusts bids, target audiences, and delivery in real time. This enables more efficient budget allocation and improved results — without manual intervention.

Personalized email communication:
Instead of sending standardized newsletters, users receive individually tailored content. AI considers open rates, click behavior, and interests to optimize sending times, subject lines, and messaging.

Product recommendations in e-commerce:
Based on purchase history and user behavior, AI recommends relevant products. This not only increases customer relevance but also measurably improves conversion rates and average order value.

These applications clearly demonstrate that AI is not an abstract concept but a practical tool that delivers measurable outcomes and sustainably improves marketing performance.
‍

Conclusion: Use AI in Marketing Strategically

AI is not a short-term trend but a core component of modern marketing strategies. Companies that implement it strategically work more efficiently, understand their customers better, and achieve stronger results.

What matters most is not the technology alone but the right strategy. With a clear focus and an experienced partner like KITICON, AI becomes a genuine competitive advantage for your business.

Berlin, 17 June 2026. Worldia is further expanding its range of trips within Germany, with a particular focus on rail journeys that can be flexibly combined. From now until 31 July 2026, travel professionals will receive double points in the Worldia Club for every Germany trip booked. With the initiative, the tailor-made travel specialist aims to give targeted support to demand for individual travel within Germany and to provide travel agencies with additional sales impetus. The focus is on curated, adaptable itinerary suggestions that can easily be tailored to customers' wishes – from a short break by the lake to a summer holiday on the North Sea coast.

Discover Germany flexibly – comfortably by rail

One focus is on journeys that can be conveniently made by train. These include the ready-made itinerary suggestion "Short trip to Lake Constance by rail", which uses Konstanz as the starting point for a stay by the lake. Alternatively, places such as Meersburg, Friedrichshafen or Lindau can be added. The journey there can be planned flexibly, including an individually adjustable train connection.

The "Our summer on Sylt" template also shows how versatile trips within Germany can be within the Worldia system. It leads to the North Frisian island and combines sandy beaches, dune landscapes, seaside resorts and relaxed time by the sea. In addition, "Green Berlin" puts the spotlight on sustainable city breaks. The template features a comfortable and environmentally friendly rail journey to Berlin and combines three nights in the capital with a free choice of experiences around culture, food, sustainable shopping or relaxed hours in Berlin's parks.

"In our exchanges with travel agencies, we notice that trips within Germany are in greater demand again – especially when they are straightforward, high in quality and easy to reach," explains Lisa Gerbens, Deputy Managing Director of Worldia Germany. "With our rail travel templates, we want to make selling easier in the travel agency and at the same time show how varied a holiday in Germany can be. The double Worldia Club points are an additional incentive to actively bring these trips into the consultation."

Worldia Club: double points for Germany bookings

With the Worldia Club, Worldia is strengthening its cooperation with the retail travel trade in the DACH market. For every confirmed booking, sales partners normally collect 1 Worldia point per euro of turnover; for trips within Germany, Worldia is now awarding double points. Points can be viewed in the personal partner account and, once the customer's trip is complete, redeemed flexibly for vouchers and rewards with more than 150 partner brands.

Flexible planning with templates and modules

While the Germany templates give travel advisors a particularly easy way in, Worldia remains true to its strength as a tailor-made travel specialist: partners can also put Germany trips together entirely from scratch, choosing from a wide range of modules. These include rail connections, ferries, hotels, events, tickets, excursions and other experiences.

Travel advisors interested in learning more about the new Germany trips, the available modules and the functions in the Worldia system can join a Masterclass on 24 June at 11 a.m. Registration is possible here.

August Frebe GmbH is an established company in the field of plant engineering with more than 130 years of experience. This long tradition shapes not only the way the company works, but also its core values: quality, reliability and technical expertise. The aim of the project was to make these strengths visible through a modern, clear and consistent brand identity. Together with August Frebe GmbH, we developed a holistic corporate design that works both online and offline while sustainably strengthening the company’s identity.

Project Period: April 2025 – February 2026‍

Industry: Plant Engineering

Objective: The goal was to modernise the brand identity without losing the company’s established character. The key challenge was to translate its long-standing experience and technical expertise into a visual language that communicates these strengths in a contemporary, clear and recognisable way.

Services:

• Development of a corporate design
• Creation of comprehensive brand guidelines
• Business stationery, including letterhead and business cards
• Vehicle branding
• Recommendations for adapting the website design
• Design of perimeter advertising and a job advertisement

The Challenge: Redesigning a company with more than a century of history means finding the right balance between tradition and modernity. The new brand identity needed not only to make a strong visual impression, but also to function effectively across all applications—from digital channels to vehicles and printed materials.

Approach: We began by analysing the existing corporate design and identifying opportunities for improvement. In addition, we used a structured questionnaire to gather key information on the company’s values, objectives and challenges.

Based on these insights, we developed initial design concepts, which we presented and refined in close collaboration with the management and marketing teams. Continuous communication and regular feedback ensured that both strategic and visual requirements were taken into account effectively.

Following final approval, we created comprehensive brand guidelines that define all design principles and provide the foundation for consistent brand management. Building on this, we implemented a wide range of applications—from business stationery and business cards to perimeter advertising for a regional event in Jüterbog.

Vehicle branding was another key focus. We developed design concepts for different vehicle types—from management vehicles to vans and flatbed trucks—and ensured that the corporate design remains clearly recognisable in mobile applications as well.

Strategic Approach: The new corporate design is based on four key principles:

Technically clear – precise forms and functional design
Reliable – consistent, robust and designed for long-term use
Human – focused on team spirit, experience and genuine craftsmanship
Modern – reduced design and clear visual hierarchies

Result: The result is a holistic corporate design that clearly reflects the values and identity of August Frebe GmbH while also being fit for the future. The restrained, technically inspired colour palette creates strong brand recognition and works reliably across all media—whether digital, print or applied to vehicles and textiles.

The defined typography combines functionality with a distinctive visual accent, while the imagery focuses on authenticity: real work situations, real technology and unfiltered impressions from everyday working life.

The result is a brand world that builds trust, conveys expertise and makes the connection between tradition and modernity visible.

Sounds interesting? Get to know our branding experts in a free initial consultation.

Munich, 15 June 2026. Signature Kollection Travel presents an exclusive tour to Ecuador and the Galápagos Islands. At its heart is a sustainable travel experience that combines extraordinary encounters with nature, high-quality accommodation and responsibly designed experiences. The 13-day tour begins in Quito, whose UNESCO-protected old town impressively combines history, architecture and cultural diversity. From there, Signature Kollection Travel takes guests on to the Mashpi cloud forest and the Galápagos Islands – with selected accommodation, private experiences and a particular focus on sustainable travel.

‍

To begin, travellers discover Quito, one of the most impressive colonial cities in South America. In addition to the UNESCO-protected old town, a visit to the equator monument "Mitad del Mundo" is also on the programme. Guests stay at the Casa Gangotena, an elegant Relais & Châteaux boutique hotel in a historic mansion right on the Plaza San Francisco. Stylish art deco rooms, a panoramic terrace overlooking the city and the "Avenue of the Volcanoes" as well as authentic Ecuadorian cuisine make the property a special starting point for exploring the capital.

Sustainable luxury in the Mashpi cloud forest

A particular focus of the tour is the Mashpi Cloud Forest, one of the most species-rich cloud forest areas in South America. At the Mashpi Lodge, guests experience nature at first hand: on guided hikes, on suspension bridges, at waterfalls and surrounded by orchids, butterflies and hummingbirds. Travellers are accompanied by naturalists who provide well-founded insights into the fragile ecosystem and the region's conservation projects.

"Ecuador impressively demonstrates that luxury travel and sustainability can enrich one another. Those who travel mindfully not only experience special places in comfort and depth, but also develop a deeper understanding of why they are worth protecting," explains Shahab Kamali, Managing Director of Signature Kollection Travel.

Galápagos as a living laboratory of evolution

The journey concludes with an exclusive expedition to the Galápagos Islands. The archipelago is regarded as a natural wonder of worldwide significance. On board the andBeyond Galapagos Explorer, a small expedition ship with a personal atmosphere, guests discover the island world on daily shore excursions and snorkelling trips. Encounters with giant tortoises, marine iguanas, sea lions, rays and blue-footed boobies make the journey an intense nature experience. Small group sizes, expert guidance and sensitively planned routes allow respectful access to this unique flora and fauna.

Individually plannable Galápagos experiences

On request, Signature Kollection Travel also plans the Galápagos expedition individually and offers further selected alternatives in the upmarket expedition segment alongside the andBeyond Galapagos Explorer. These include the Relais & Châteaux yachts from Ecoventura, the Aqua Mare from Aqua Expeditions and the Silver Origin from Silversea. This allows the travel experience to be tailored to personal style, desired atmosphere and level of comfort – always with a view to intense nature experiences and respectful access to this sensitive ecosystem.

Further information about the tour can be found here.

‍

Bonn, June 11, 2026 – KITICON is expanding its portfolio with a new AI-powered Leadmachine for B2B sales. The in-house developed and fully programmed solution is designed to significantly simplify B2B lead generation and customer acquisition across German-speaking markets.

Through the application, companies can define which regions, industries, and contact types are relevant to their business. Based on these criteria, Leadmachine identifies suitable decision-makers from a database of more than three million business contacts.

The solution is particularly valuable for organizations seeking to build a more structured, efficient, and cost-effective B2B acquisition process. In addition to standard company data, Leadmachine can also identify specific contact types in a GDPR-compliant manner, such as owner-managed businesses or defined decision-makers within an organization.

AI-Driven Market and Competitive Insights

In addition to lead research, KITICON also offers a Fill-In Service. This service is designed for companies that already maintain customer or target lists but lack personal contacts, contact details, or additional information. The service enriches existing lists with relevant B2B contacts, making them more effective for sales, consulting, and customer outreach.

Furthermore, Leadmachine enables AI-powered analytics based on sources such as Google Reviews or job applications. This allows companies not only to identify new potential customers but also to gain valuable market and competitive insights.

“From our day-to-day agency work, we know how much time is lost searching for the right contacts. With Leadmachine, we aimed to make this process significantly more efficient and cost-effective—without compromising the quality of outreach,” explains Janik Vogel, Head of Digital Experience at KITICON.

API for Automated B2B Contact Data

In addition to the web application, KITICON provides a dedicated API that delivers verified B2B business contacts across the German-speaking market. Alongside standard lead data such as company name, email, and phone number, it also includes LinkedIn and Google Maps profiles where available.

Data is exported by default in JSON, CSV, or Excel format, enabling seamless integration into CRM systems, internal tools, and existing sales workflows.

Interested companies can test Leadmachine and receive 20 complimentary leads upon registration. This ensures businesses can evaluate how well the solution aligns with their sales strategy before committing further.

limes living represents a modern residential concept that brings together people in different stages of life — from seniors requiring support to young families and couples. The residential complex in Höhr-Grenzhausen is designed to create a vibrant community that combines closeness, support, and independence.

The aim of our collaboration was to translate this unique idea into a visual identity that builds trust while reflecting a high standard of design.

‍

Project Period: December 2025 – May 2026

‍
Industry: Housing / Social Infrastructure

Objective: For limes living, we developed a corporate design that feels inclusive, human, and authentic without compromising on perceived value. The brand was intended to establish a clear position and achieve strong recognition — supported by a design that is timeless, accessible, and premium at the same time.

Services:

• Project management
• Development of a corporate design
• Creation of a style guide
• Design of advertising templates
• Concept development and implementation of a brochure
• Concept development and implementation of an A5 flyer
• Copywriting and proofreading

The Challenge: The limes living brand brings together different target groups and realities of life. This made it particularly challenging to develop a visual language that conveys both warmth and quality — without appearing too distant, cold, or elitist.

At the same time, the design needed to be flexible enough to work consistently across different media and formats.

Our Approach: Based on a detailed briefing, we developed initial design concepts, which we presented and discussed with the client in a joint review meeting. This first “work-in-progress” session formed the basis for further development and refinement. Among other aspects, the colour concept was specifically adjusted to achieve the desired emotional impact more precisely.

Following final approval of the corporate design, we created a style guide defining all visual elements and ensuring consistent brand application. In parallel, we developed advertising templates in various formats for flexible use across different channels.

A key part of the project was the concept development and implementation of a brochure. We managed the entire process — from content structure and editorial development through to the final layout and coordination with the printer. The result was a high-quality communication tool that conveys the values and concept of limes living in a holistic way.

Based on this brochure, we also developed a two-sided flyer that clearly highlights the key benefits and can be displayed at various events.

The Result: The new corporate design gives limes living a clear and distinctive identity that runs consistently through all communication materials. The carefully selected combination of typography, colour palette, symbolism, and icons creates a visual identity that builds trust, conveys closeness, and communicates a high level of design quality.

The brand feels welcoming and premium — without creating distance. It speaks to different target groups equally and communicates the idea of community, individuality, and quality of life in an authentic way.

Sounds interesting? Meet our corporate design experts in a free initial consultation.

‍

Why Online Marketing Is So Important in Tourism

Tourism thrives on visibility. A hotel, destination, or tour operator may offer an outstanding experience, but if people cannot find it online, it remains invisible to many potential guests. Especially during the inspiration and planning stages, travelers decide which providers make it onto their shortlist.

The major advantage: digital marketing is measurable. Hotels, destinations, and tour operators can track exactly which channels generate inquiries, bookings, and revenue. This makes marketing more predictable, efficient, and less dependent on gut feeling.
‍

‍

The Most Important Online Marketing Channels in Tourism

A successful tourism online marketing strategy is not built around a single channel. Success depends on the right mix. SEO, performance marketing, social media, content marketing, and email marketing all serve different purposes—but together they create the strongest impact.

SEO in Tourism: Long-Term Visibility That Delivers Results

Search engine optimization is one of the most important foundations of tourism internet marketing.

Many travelers don’t search for generic terms like “vacation.” Instead, they search specifically: “wellness hotel in the Black Forest with outdoor pool,” “family hiking holiday in South Tyrol,” or “North Sea short break with dog.” These searches reveal clear intent. Being visible for them means reaching potential guests at the right moment.

Today, SEO in tourism goes far beyond technical optimization. The key lies in content that answers real questions and is structured for different search systems. Hotels can publish guides about regional activities, destinations can create seasonal travel guides, and tour operators can provide travel tips, packing lists, or experience reports.

At the same time, optimization for AI-powered search systems is becoming increasingly important. Content should be clearly structured, precisely written, and enriched with trustworthy information so that search engines and generative AI systems can understand, categorize, and include it in search results or AI-generated answers.

Such content not only increases visibility but also positions providers as trusted experts over time.

Technical factors also matter: fast loading times, mobile optimization, clean site architecture, and structured data help search engines understand content while improving user experience—a crucial factor for bookings.

‍

‍

Google Ads and Performance Marketing: Visibility Exactly When Demand Appears

While SEO builds long-term visibility, performance marketing creates immediate reach.

Its biggest advantage is measurability. With proper conversion tracking, businesses can clearly see which campaigns generate bookings and where budgets should be reallocated. Advertising becomes a controllable growth system.

Google Ads are especially effective when users already have booking intent. Someone searching for “book hotel Munich” or “Austria ski holiday Christmas” is much closer to booking than someone simply seeking inspiration. In tourism online marketing, Google Ads can also promote seasonal offers, available capacity, or exclusive packages.

‍

Social Media Marketing: Turning Emotions Into Visibility

Tourism is emotional. People don’t just book a hotel room or travel service—they book anticipation, relaxation, adventure, enjoyment, and shared experiences.

That’s why social media plays such an important role in tourism online marketing. Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Pinterest are ideal for visually telling travel stories.

Hotels can showcase rooms, spa experiences, culinary highlights, and memorable moments. Destinations can present landscapes, events, local culture, and seasonal attractions. Tour operators can document experiences, explain tours, and share customer stories. User-generated content is especially valuable. Photos and videos from real guests often feel more authentic than polished advertising visuals. They build trust and make the offer more tangible. At the same time, active community management strengthens relationships with the audience: replying to comments, sharing recommendations, answering questions, and offering local insights.

‍

Content Marketing and Storytelling: More Than Advertising

Great tourism web marketing doesn’t just sell—it tells stories. People want to know what they can experience on-site. They seek inspiration, guidance, and trust. A hotel becomes more attractive when it highlights hiking trails, restaurants, attractions, and hidden gems—not just rooms.

Content marketing can take many forms:

• Blog articles
• Travel guides
• Videos
• Interviews
• Virtual tours
• Checklists
• Seasonal recommendations

An article like “The Most Beautiful Hikes in the Allgäu” can generate long-term SEO traffic for a hotel. An interview with a local winemaker can emotionally strengthen a destination’s brand. A family travel packing list can help tour operators gain visibility early in the customer journey. High-quality content works long after publication. It builds organic rankings, earns backlinks, drives social sharing, and creates trust. Content marketing is not just communication—it’s a strategic asset.
‍

‍

Increase Direct Bookings and Reduce OTA Dependency

Many hotels and tourism providers rely heavily on Online Travel Agencies (OTAs). While these platforms provide reach and visibility, they often come with high commission fees. Every additional direct booking therefore improves profit margins and strengthens the relationship with guests.

In tourism online marketing, your own website is the most important direct booking channel. It needs to be fast, mobile-optimized, trustworthy, and easy to book through. Guests should immediately understand why they should book directly. Incentives may include best-price guarantees, complimentary upgrades, flexible cancellation policies, exclusive packages, or small additional benefits.

Retargeting also plays an important role. Many users visit a website, compare prices, and leave without booking. With targeted advertising, these potential guests can be reached again and guided back to complete a direct booking. Email marketing is equally effective, especially for returning guests and previous customers.

‍

Data, Tracking, and Analytics: Making Decisions Based on Facts

Many tourism businesses invest in marketing but do not know exactly which activities actually generate bookings. This is where significant potential exists. Data-driven tourism internet marketing reveals which channels perform best, where users drop off, and which campaigns are truly profitable.

Google Analytics helps businesses understand how users arrive on their website, which content they consume, and at which stage they leave. In addition, conversion tracking shows which interactions are actually valuable—from clicks on booking buttons to completed reservations. Tools such as heatmaps and session recordings provide deeper insights into user behavior and help businesses understand how visitors move through the website in practice.

A clean and privacy-compliant tracking setup is essential. Only when data is collected correctly can budgets be allocated effectively. Regular reporting and dashboards help identify trends early and continuously optimize campaigns.

‍

Conversion Optimization: Turning Existing Traffic Into More Bookings

More website visitors bring little value if they do not convert into bookings. That is why conversion optimization is a key component of tourism online marketing. The goal is to remove friction in the booking process and guide users toward making an inquiry or completing a booking as easily as possible.

This includes fast loading speeds, clear calls-to-action, transparent pricing, high-quality visuals, visible reviews, and an intuitive booking experience. Everything must work seamlessly, especially on mobile devices. If users have to search too long, cannot clearly understand pricing, or find the booking process complicated, they are likely to leave.

A/B testing helps businesses systematically compare different approaches. Variations in headlines, buttons, offer presentation, or imagery can significantly impact conversion rates. Personalization can also improve performance—for example, by showing returning visitors different offers than first-time users.
‍

‍

Challenges in Digital Tourism Marketing

Digital tourism marketing is demanding. Many hotels, destinations, and tour operators work with limited resources, small teams, or little in-house expertise. At the same time, the digital landscape changes rapidly. New platforms, privacy regulations, tracking limitations, and growing competition make marketing increasingly complex.

The solution is not to be active everywhere at once. A much more effective approach is clear prioritization. Businesses that understand their target audience can focus on two or three highly relevant channels and execute consistently. For some providers, SEO is the strongest growth lever; for others, Google Ads, social media, or email marketing deliver the greatest impact.

Automation can further reduce workload. Email workflows, social media scheduling, reporting dashboards, and retargeting campaigns save time and create more consistency. Where internal expertise is missing, working with a specialized marketing agency such as KITICON may be beneficial.

‍

Best Practices: What Successful Strategies Have in Common

Successful tourism online marketing does not always require massive budgets. Clear goals, consistent execution, and data-driven optimization are far more important.

A boutique hotel can increase organic visibility and generate more direct bookings through regional blog articles, hiking guides, and local travel recommendations. A destination can use user-generated content and targeted Instagram campaigns to increase awareness and overnight stays. A tour operator can bring back users who have already shown interest through retargeting. A city hotel can reduce cost per booking through optimized Google Ads campaigns.

These examples demonstrate that the most successful strategies combine multiple activities in a meaningful way. Content strengthens SEO, social media amplifies reach, advertising creates visibility, tracking identifies what works, and conversion optimization turns interest into actual bookings.
‍

‍

Conclusion: Online Marketing in Tourism Only Works With Strategy

Tourism online marketing is not a single channel and not a short-term campaign. It is a strategic system that combines visibility, inspiration, data, booking experience, and customer loyalty. Hotels, destinations, and tour operators benefit most when they stop chasing every trend and instead focus on the channels that align with their audience and business goals. The most important foundation remains a strong website. SEO, content marketing, Google Ads, social media, email marketing, and conversion optimization all build upon it.

Businesses that connect these measures intelligently reduce dependency on OTAs, increase direct bookings, and use marketing budgets more efficiently. For many providers, the best place to start is with an honest analysis: Where are we today? Which channels already generate inquiries? Where are we losing potential guests? And which actions have the greatest potential to increase bookings. Because that is where the greatest opportunity lies—not in doing more marketing, but in doing the right marketing at the right time.

Destination Marketing: Strategies, Trends, and Tips for Greater Visibility in Tourism

Today, anyone promoting a region, city, or destination is no longer competing only with neighboring locations — but with the entire world. That’s where destination marketing comes in: it determines whether a region becomes visible, stays top of mind, and ultimately gets booked.

Between social media, search engines, and AI-powered recommendations, many destinations face the same question: How do you stand out from the crowd?

In this article, we’ll show you which destination marketing strategies truly work — practical, easy to understand, and directly actionable.

‍

Destination Marketing Definition: What Modern Destination Marketing Means

Before we dive deeper, it’s worth taking a quick look at the definition of destination marketing: Destination marketing includes all activities used to strategically position a region as a travel destination throughout the entire customer journey.

At first glance, this may sound abstract. In practice, it means people no longer discover your region by chance — they are guided step by step. From initial inspiration to research, booking, and beyond. The goal is not only to attract visitors but also to create experiences that remain memorable over the long term.
‍

Why Destination Marketing Is More Important Than Ever

Competition in tourism has become increasingly intense. Many destinations offer beautiful landscapes, quality accommodation, and attractive experiences. The deciding factor is no longer just what a region offers — but whether those experiences are visible and communicated convincingly at the right time. Without professional destination marketing, even exceptional regions can disappear in the digital landscape.

At the same time, a clear strategy creates major opportunities:

• Increase visitor numbers
• Strengthen off-season demand
• Support regional businesses
• Contribute to long-term economic value

Destination marketing also plays an important steering role. It can help direct visitor flows, increase visibility for lesser-known areas, and relieve pressure on overcrowded hotspots. This makes marketing an important tool for sustainable tourism management.

‍

The Role of Data in Destination Marketing

Data plays a central role in destination marketing. Instead of planning campaigns based on assumptions or intuition, destinations can now make decisions based on real insights. By analyzing website performance, search behavior, social media interactions, and booking data, it becomes possible to understand what travelers are actually looking for, which content attracts attention, and where potential visitors lose interest along the journey.

The real value of data does not lie in collecting as much information as possible. What matters is asking the right questions and using the insights strategically. Destinations that understand which topics create demand, which audiences are most likely to book, and which channels generate qualified traffic can allocate budgets more effectively and create more relevant experiences.

This data-driven approach leads to stronger decision-making and helps destinations achieve a higher return on investment, meaning a more sustainable and measurable impact from their marketing activities.
‍

‍

Authentic Storytelling Instead of Generic Advertising

Travel is emotional. People rarely choose a destination based purely on facts. More often, they are searching for a feeling: relaxation, adventure, freedom, culture, or meaningful time together. That’s why storytelling is so important in destination marketing. A region should not simply showcase attractions — it should communicate what staying there feels like.

Authentic stories from locals, guests, and regional businesses create emotional closeness and make destinations more tangible. Especially in an era where content often looks similar and is increasingly automated, authenticity matters more than ever. User-generated content, personal recommendations, and real-life insights can often outperform polished advertising imagery.
‍

‍

Digital Visibility: SEO, GEO, and Local Content

Digital visibility is one of the key success factors in destination marketing. Many travel decisions begin online, whether travelers are searching for weekend escapes, sustainable holidays, or family-friendly experiences. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) helps destinations appear at the right moment. This includes fast websites, mobile optimization, and helpful content that supports travelers during their planning process.

Local guides, seasonal recommendations, and informative content are especially effective. As AI-supported search becomes more important, destinations should also structure content to answer natural-language questions clearly and increase visibility across modern search environments.

‍

Social Media and Influencer Marketing

Social media remains one of the strongest sources of travel inspiration. Platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest, and YouTube strongly influence destination choices.

Success is not about being active everywhere — it is about choosing the right platforms and creating content that feels authentic and relevant.

Short videos, local insights, seasonal impressions, and behind-the-scenes content often create stronger engagement than traditional advertising. Influencer collaborations can also support reach, especially when working with micro-influencers who bring credibility and authentic storytelling.
‍

‍

Content Marketing and User Generated Content

Content marketing helps destinations inform, inspire, and guide travelers throughout their decision-making process. Formats such as blog articles, travel guides, videos, newsletters, and seasonal campaigns create value and strengthen visibility.

User-generated content adds another important layer. Guest photos, experiences, and recommendations often feel more trustworthy than traditional advertising. A balanced mix of professional content and authentic visitor contributions creates a more believable and engaging destination image.

‍

Using Technology with Purpose

Technology opens new opportunities in destination marketing — from artificial intelligence and chatbots to data analysis and interactive experiences.

However, technology should always support a clear objective rather than becoming the objective itself. For many destinations, investing in strong digital foundations such as fast websites, optimized profiles, quality content, and smooth booking processes creates more value than chasing every new trend.
‍

‍

Sustainability and Visitor Management

Sustainability has become an essential part of destination marketing. Travelers increasingly consider how they travel and what impact their stay has. Destinations can support this through clear communication about sustainable options, regional experiences, and alternatives to crowded hotspots. By promoting off-season travel and lesser-known locations, destination marketing can contribute not only to growth but also to a healthier distribution of visitor flows.

‍

Real-World Destination Marketing Examples

Successful destinations show that there is no single formula for growth. Tyrol focuses on strong branding and year-round tourism, while Switzerland’s Grand Tour of Switzerland transforms existing attractions into a connected travel experience. Smaller regions can succeed just as effectively through clear positioning, regional identity, and targeted communication.
‍

‍

Conclusion: Destination Marketing Requires Strategy and Personality

Modern destination marketing goes beyond traditional tourism advertising. It combines visibility, data, storytelling, technology, and collaboration. Long-term success comes from creating a connected system with clear audiences, relevant content, and a consistent destination identity. The goal is not simply to attract attention — but to create memorable experiences that stay with travelers long after their visit.

What Defines Successful Travel Marketing Today

Travel marketing includes all measures used by tourism businesses to make their services visible, sharpen their brand, and target their audiences effectively. This includes, among others, content marketing, social media, SEO, email marketing, and performance-driven campaigns.

The key difference from traditional advertising lies in its impact: travel marketing doesn’t just sell a service—it sells a feeling. It’s about anticipation, trust, orientation, and the ability to reach people exactly at the point where inspiration gradually becomes a decision.
‍

What Really Matters

Only when these elements work together does marketing not just generate reach, but real impact.
‍

• clear positioning
• relevant messaging
• strong content
• the right channels
• a consistent customer journey

Only when these elements work together does marketing not just generate reach, but real impact.
‍

The Key Challenge: Staying Relevant

Many tourism offerings deliver excellent services, yet often get lost among a flood of similar messages. This is one of the biggest challenges in travel marketing: brands that appear interchangeable are quickly overlooked.

In a market full of similar messages, it’s not the loudest brands that win—but those that communicate clearly and distinctly. Brands that show what they stand for, who they target, and why they are the right choice gain a real competitive advantage.
‍

Typical Challenges at a Glance
‍

• strong competition
• high comparability of offers
• unclear brand messaging
• lack of differentiation
• wasted reach in targeting

The good news: this is also where the greatest potential lies. With a clear strategy, visibility, relevance, and brand impact can be significantly improved.
‍

Which Travel Marketing Measures Are Most Effective

Travel decisions rarely happen in a single moment. People get inspired, compare offers, save content, read reviews, and often return later to complete a booking. That’s why successful travel marketing requires communication across multiple touchpoints.

Particularly effective are measures that work together seamlessly: social media creates awareness and inspiration, content marketing builds trust, SEO ensures that users find the right offers, and SEA reaches potential customers at the right moment. Mobile lead funnels enable smooth interaction on the go, email marketing deepens relationships, and remarketing brings interested users back. This creates an integrated system that doesn’t just get seen—but builds real connections.

The key is not to do everything on every channel, but to orchestrate measures so they collectively support your goals.
‍

Targeting Audiences Precisely Instead of Broadcasting Broadly

The more precise the targeting, the stronger the impact. People respond to content that matches their needs, travel motivations, and interests. Generic messages, on the other hand, often feel too vague.

That’s why personalization is so important in travel marketing. Aligning content and campaigns with specific audiences increases not only the relevance of communication but also the likelihood that interest turns into action.
‍

‍

Travel Marketing Requires Tailored Strategies

Not every tourism brand pursues the same goals—and this is where success is determined.

A hotel aims to increase direct bookings and build long-term guest loyalty, while a tour operator must present complex offerings in a clear and appealing way. Destinations thrive on reach, image, and experiences, whereas travel agencies excel through consultation, service, and personal connection.

Effective travel marketing takes these differences into account and develops a strategy tailored precisely to each offering. This allows every brand to reach its audience in the right way and stand out sustainably from competitors.

‍

Relevance Beats Reach

Successful travel marketing is not created through mere presence. It emerges when brands manage to be relevant—with clear messages, targeted content, and communication that truly resonates with people.

Those who understand their audiences, use their channels strategically, and consistently focus their marketing on impact lay the foundation for sustainable growth. KITICON Global Networks supports companies in the travel industry in achieving exactly this impact—strategically, digitally, and with a clear focus on markets, brands, and audiences.

Want to sharpen your travel marketing and turn visibility into demand?
‍

Marketing Ideas for Hotels: How to Increase Visibility, Interest, and Direct Bookings

Today, successfully marketing a hotel requires more than just a beautiful website and occasional social media posts. Competition is intense, guests compare options more carefully, and many booking decisions happen only after several touchpoints. That’s exactly why well-planned hotel marketing ideas matter: they help you become visible, build trust, and increase direct bookings strategically.

‍

Why Hotel Marketing Needs a More Strategic Approach Today

Many hotels invest time and budget into individual activities — without a clear direction. The problem: without a strategy, even great content loses impact.

Successful marketing today means being present throughout the entire customer journey — from inspiration to booking.

In short:

• Guests research more thoroughly than before
• Visibility drives bookings
• Trust is one of the strongest decision factors

Ask yourself: Where do potential guests first encounter your hotel — and what impression do you leave there?

‍

Content Marketing for Hotels: Turning Information into Atmosphere

In hotel marketing, content is far more than a source of information. Great content creates images in people’s minds. It helps guests imagine how a stay feels, what atmosphere your hotel offers, and why they should choose your experience.

That’s why content marketing in hospitality works best when it doesn’t feel overly promotional. A blog post with local excursion ideas, a glimpse of breakfast on the terrace, or a short story about unique regional experiences often creates more impact than traditional advertising.

‍Mini takeaway: For every piece of content, ask yourself: Does this help potential guests imagine their stay more clearly?

‍

Your Website: The Central Hub for Direct Bookings

Your website is more than a digital business card — it’s your most important sales channel.

Many hotels rely too heavily on booking platforms. Yet the greatest opportunity often lies in your own ecosystem: direct bookings reduce commission costs and strengthen your brand.

Focus on:

• Clear user journeys
• Fast loading times
• Persuasive content
• Simple booking processes

Evaluate your website honestly: Would you book here immediately yourself?
‍

‍

SEO for Hotels: Being Visible When Demand Becomes Specific

A hotel can only generate bookings through its own website if people can find it. That’s why search engine optimization (SEO) is such an important part of hotel marketing. Guests often search with very specific intent — for example, a hotel in a certain region, with certain amenities, or for a particular occasion.

Local SEO is especially valuable. A well-maintained Google Business Profile, updated imagery, consistent contact information, and active review management are often strong levers for improving visibility. Add optimized metadata, clearly structured content, and a mobile-friendly website to strengthen results further.

‍

Social Media: Don’t Just Post — Create Experiences

Social media is much more than an additional communication channel for hotels. It’s where a property becomes a brand with personality. Today’s guests don’t just want to see rooms — they want to experience the atmosphere.

That’s why authentic formats perform especially well. Behind-the-scenes moments, seasonal impressions, short Reels, and personal team stories often feel more relatable than highly polished content.

‍What works: Authenticity, credibility, consistency, and human connection outperform perfection.
‍

‍

Recommendations, Reviews, and Real Guests as Trust Builders

Trust is one of the most important success factors in hotel marketing. Many potential guests read reviews, check Instagram tags, and look for real experiences before booking. That’s why user-generated content and professional reputation management are so valuable.

When guests share photos, describe positive experiences, or recommend your hotel, the impact is often stronger than traditional advertising. Equally important is how you respond to reviews. Hotels that answer quickly, professionally, and with solutions demonstrate reliability and strengthen trust among future guests.

Use reviews not only as feedback — but as an active part of your brand communication.
‍

‍

Target Audience Focus: Better Specific Than Generic

One common challenge in hotel marketing is speaking too broadly. Trying to reach everyone often results in unclear messaging. Luxury travelers, families, business guests, and boutique hotel enthusiasts all have different expectations.

Successful marketing starts with a clear understanding of your audience. The better you know who you want to attract, the more effectively you can adapt visuals, messaging, offers, and tone.

‍In summary: Success is driven less by maximum reach and more by reaching the right people.
‍

‍

Big Impact Is Possible Even with a Small Budget

Effective hotel marketing doesn’t have to be expensive. Smaller hotels in particular can achieve impressive results through creative ideas, local partnerships, and clear positioning.

Success depends less on budget size and more on whether a tactic fits your audience, your property, and your brand.

Collaborations with local partners, themed offers, small on-site campaigns, or an optimized Google profile can already make a noticeable difference in visibility.

‍Food for thought: Often, the most effective idea isn’t the most complex one — it’s the most aligned one.

Whether it’s an inspiring blog post, a social media story, a newsletter, or a destination video: great content turns interest into concrete booking intentions. But what does an effective content strategy actually look like? Which channels should you post on? And what’s important when it comes to implementation? We’ll reveal all that and more in our blog post.

Why Content Marketing Is So Important in Tourism

Today, travelers do more research than ever before. Whereas in the past people might have read a catalog or watched a TV segment, today’s guests go through a whole range of information sources: they read reviews, compare offers, watch videos, save posts on social media, and actively seek inspiration. It is precisely during this phase that the decision is made as to which brand sticks in their minds—and that’s where we come in. Because content marketing in tourism means providing the right content at the right time: not promotional, but helpful, inspiring, and credible. This is how you build trust, increase your digital visibility, and guide users step by step all the way to booking.

‍

Content Marketing for Tourism: How to Develop a Clear Strategy

A good strategy doesn’t start with the first post, but with a clear goal. Do you want to expand your reach, increase bookings, strengthen your brand, or become more visible internationally? Only once the goal is established can content be planned strategically. To develop a successful strategy, you must, among other things, conduct a clear target audience analysis, research relevant topics, select appropriate formats and channels, and establish a realistic editorial calendar. It is important that all content works together. Only then can you create a cohesive overall picture that strengthens your brand in the long term.

‍

Target Audience Analysis in Tourism: Creating Content That Really Resonates

In tourism, there is no single target audience. Families, couples, solo travelers, business travelers, and luxury vacationers all have very different expectations. Trying to appeal to everyone at once often results in content that’s too generic.That’s why it’s worth taking the time to define your target audiences specifically. Ask yourself: What motivates your guests? What questions do they have before booking? Which channels do they use to get information? What kind of content truly convinces them? The better you understand these points, the more relevant your content will be—and the higher the chance that it will lead to inquiries or bookings.

‍

Using Emotions Strategically: Content That Sparks Wanderlust

Travel is emotional. People don’t book a stay or a package just because of the facts, but because of the feeling behind it: relaxation, adventure, freedom, or inspiration. That’s why storytelling works particularly well in tourism. Don’t just tell them what’s there, but how it feels. Authentic stories, powerful images, and short videos create a sense of connection and make offers tangible. Especially in an era where content is produced in mass quantities—often by artificial intelligence—it pays to focus on personal experiences and impressions.

‍

‍Added Value Instead of Advertising: How to Win Over Customers with Useful Content

Traditional advertising is easily overlooked. Content that offers real value, on the other hand, remains relevant. In the tourism industry, this category includes travel tips, packing lists, restaurant and excursion recommendations, as well as guides for regions and cities. Answers to frequently asked questions before a trip also offer customers real added value. Such content not only helps with decision-making but also strengthens your credibility. Those who provide guidance and demonstrate expertise are perceived as competent partners—not just as providers.
‍

‍

Content Matrix in Tourism: Planning Topics in a Structured Way

Good content rarely comes about spontaneously. A content matrix helps you plan topics systematically and assign content specifically to the individual stages of the customer journey.While emotional stories, images, and Reels work well during the inspiration phase, for example, customers tend to rely on blog posts, FAQs, and guides during the comparison phase. When they’re about to book, trust, clear information, and reviews matter most. With this structure, you avoid gaps, save time in planning, and publish content with a clear purpose rather than aimlessly.

‍

Mobile Content in Tourism: Optimizing for Smartphones

Whether on the way home, in the doctor’s waiting room, or during a quick coffee break: a large portion of travel research takes place on mobile devices these days. If you don’t offer a good user experience here, you’ll often lose their attention within the first few seconds. Therefore, make sure to use short, easy-to-read paragraphs, clear headings, fast loading times, mobile-optimized images and videos, and well-placed calls to action. Mobile optimization not only improves user-friendliness but also boosts your visibility in search engines.

‍

‍

Tourism Platforms and Channels: Where Your Target Audience Really Spends Their Time

Not every channel is right for every brand. The key is to have a presence where your target audience consumes content and makes decisions. Particularly relevant in tourism web marketing are:

‍

• Instagram for visual inspiration
• Pinterest for travel ideas and planning
• YouTube for in-depth insights and storytelling
• Blogs for SEO, background information, and long-term visibility
• Newsletters for direct communication without platform dependency
• LinkedIn for B2B, specialized topics, and business travel

Less is often more: Focus on a few channels that you manage well, rather than having a half-hearted presence everywhere.

‍

‍

User-Generated Content: Where Guests Become Brand Ambassadors

Few things are more credible than content created by real guests. Photos, testimonials, reviews, and mentions in stories build trust and come across as more authentic than traditional advertising messages.Actively encourage this type of content, for example through custom hashtags, photogenic spots on-site, small interactive activities, or by sharing guest posts on your social media channels. This creates a strong connection between the brand and the community—and at the same time, valuable content with high credibility.
‍

Community Management in Tourism: Building Trust Through Genuine Interaction

Content doesn’t end with publication. Responding to comments, taking questions seriously, and addressing feedback demonstrates presence and reliability. Trust plays a central role, especially in tourism. Friendly, prompt, and respectful communication can make all the difference—especially when potential customers are still comparing multiple providers.
‍

Visual Language and Style Guide: Creating Consistent Visual Content

In the tourism industry, first impressions often make all the difference. A clear visual language ensures that your brand is instantly recognizable and comes across as professional. Your style guide should establish visual and linguistic standards. Ask yourself: Which images fit my brand? Which colors and styles are used? What tone should the text have? And how do images, videos, and social media posts ultimately work together? With such guidelines, you create a consistent brand presence across your website, social media, newsletters, and other channels. This significantly increases brand recognition, and customers will immediately think of you.
‍

‍

Online Marketing in Tourism: Effectively Combining Strategies

Content marketing works best not in isolation, but as part of a broader digital strategy. Depending on the objectives, this may also include SEO, Social Media, SEA and Direct Marketing.

The strength lies in synergy: A blog post can be found via Google, shared in a newsletter, and repurposed on social media. This allows you to get more out of every piece of content and boost the long-term impact of your efforts.

‍

Content Marketing Examples in Tourism: What Works Well

Some of the most effective content marketing examples in tourism include:

‍

• Blog posts with insider tips for a region
• Hotel guides tailored to specific types of travelers
• Seasonal travel content such as “Fall in South Tyrol” or “Weekend Getaways by the Sea”
• Guest stories and testimonials
• Short video formats featuring authentic on-site impressions
• FAQ content covering travel, stays, and bookings

These formats provide customers with information, inspiration, and visibility—exactly what good content marketing is meant to achieve. For more inspiration, feel free to read our Content Marketing Case Studies.

Conclusion: Content marketing in tourism isn’t a nice-to-have—it’s a must.

To succeed in the digital marketplace, you need content that’s relevant, well-structured, and has personality. Content marketing in tourism helps you gain visibility, build trust, and reach travelers exactly where decisions are made.

Quality trumps quantity: With a clear strategy, a good understanding of your target audience, and the right channels, you can create content that offers your customers genuine guidance and strengthens your brand in the long term.

Berlin, 20 May 2026. Custom trip specialist operator Worldia is launching a new incentive campaign for the travel trade, placing a stronger focus on sustainable France tours. Until the end of July, sales partners will automatically be credited with points worth €25 in the Worldia Club loyalty programme for every France booking with a booking value of €1,000 or more. With the campaign, Worldia is supporting travel agencies in actively picking up on the growing demand for individual European trips that can be planned more sustainably during the consultation.

‍

France as an ideal destination for sustainable tours

France's dense rail network offers ideal conditions for flexible tours between cities, coastal regions and nature destinations. Many itineraries can be comfortably arranged by train, providing a more sustainable alternative to domestic flights or longer car journeys.

"France combines sustainable mobility, cultural diversity and flexible route planning like almost no other destination in Europe. The many rail connections in particular open up wide-ranging possibilities for travel agencies to create modern tours," explains Lisa Gerbens, Deputy Managing Director of Worldia Germany. "With the new Club campaign, we want to give sales partners additional support in positioning France more strongly as a versatile and sustainable touring destination."

Currently in particular demand are tours that combine several regions, such as Paris, Lyon and Marseille, or Bordeaux, Biarritz and Toulouse along the Atlantic coast. Family trips and journeys to Corsica are also gaining importance, as the island connects ideally with southern France via rail and ferry links. The modular templates additionally allow further European cities or extra stops within France to be integrated, creating flexible options for individual itineraries.

Masterclass provides sales impetus for travel agencies

A more in-depth look at suggested routes, products and sales approaches is also available at the Masterclass on 27 May 2026. There, sales partners will receive practical information on sustainable France tours, popular routings and tips for advising on and selling individual modular trips. Registration is possible here.

München, 19.05.2026. Signature Kollection Travel nimmt die Maltese Falcon, A Jumeirah Privé Experience in sein Portfolio auf. Die Segelyacht bietet mit nur sechs Kabinen für maximal zwölf Gäste eine Reiseform, die sich grundlegend vom klassischen Reiseerlebnis in einem Resort oder auf einem Kreuzfahrtschiff unterscheidet. Das Angebot richtet sich an Gäste im Ultra-Luxury-Segment, für die Privatsphäre und Flexibilität keine Kompromisse sind. Damit reagiert das Unternehmen zugleich auf eine spürbar wachsende Nachfrage nach exklusiven Reiseformaten im Mittelmeer.

‍

The Maltese Falcon features a distinctive DynaRig system with three free-standing masts and over 2,400 square metres of sail area. In summer, the routes lead through the western and eastern Mediterranean – from the French Riviera and the Amalfi Coast to Greece and the Balearics. On board, guests can look forward to individually tailored menus, a spa area and an extensive range of water sports. Routes, daily schedules and activities are designed entirely according to guests' wishes.

Impressions at first hand

Shahab Kamali, founder and CEO of Signature Kollection Travel, was one of only a few internationally selected luxury travel experts to be personally invited on board – together with a hand-picked group of international trade journalists and specialists from the global luxury travel market. "The Maltese Falcon combines the romance of classic seafaring with state-of-the-art technology. Wishes are often fulfilled before they even need to be expressed," says Kamali. "That is the kind of experience we want to make possible for our guests."

Europe as a growing focus

The addition of the Maltese Falcon fits into a broader development that Signature Kollection Travel is observing among its guests. Europe is establishing itself more strongly as a versatile stage for high-quality summer travel. The combination of exceptional accommodation, individual experiences and good accessibility matches the current mood of many travellers. "For us, this means developing our offering in a targeted way: to that end, we are currently personally exploring accommodation in Europe in order to find the right places for the widest possible range of travel wishes," says Kamali.

The Mediterranean portfolio is complemented by the Jumeirah Mallorca above the bay of Port de Sóller and the Jumeirah Capri Palace in Anacapri – both properties reflect the company's focus on destinations with an exceptional location and a clear concept.

Find out more here.

Berlin, 13 May 2026. Modular tour operator Worldia is expanding its portfolio in a targeted way, responding to the trend towards cooler, nature-oriented travel destinations within Europe. The focus is on flexible self-drive trips from Germany, which well-developed ferry connections make comfortably accessible without flying. Worldia's modular programmes are aimed at sales partners who want to offer their customers tailor-made Nordics experiences.

Coolcations as a driver for Nordics travel

In the summer months in particular, the Nordic countries offer ideal conditions for so-called coolcations: with up to 24 hours of daylight, moderate temperatures and expansive natural landscapes, they are excellently suited to outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring nature. At the same time, cultural influences – from the Viking era to modern Nordic living – create additional appeal for varied travel programmes.

"We are seeing a clear shift in booking behaviour: travellers are specifically looking for cooler destinations as an alternative to classic summer destinations. Scandinavia is benefiting strongly from this coolcation trend – especially in combination with sustainable, flight-free travel options," explains Lisa Gerbens, Deputy Managing Director of Worldia Germany. "With our modular trips, we give travel agencies the opportunity to serve exactly this demand flexibly and individually."

Flexible planning and added value for sales

Planning and assembling such trips is additionally supported by the AI assistant JAI. Sales partners can use it to create individual Nordics routes with or without ferry connections quickly and efficiently, and tailor them to customer needs. Rental cars for trips through Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland and Iceland can be conveniently booked via Worldia. In addition, key ferry connections between the Scandinavian capitals – for example Copenhagen–Oslo or Stockholm–Helsinki – can be integrated in advance. Connections from Kiel are also available. Rental cars and ferry crossings can be booked conveniently as part of the overall trip via Worldia, enabling seamlessly combinable Nordics routes.

The provider is also creating additional incentives for sales partners: from a booking value of €1,000, points worth €25 are automatically credited in the loyalty programme, the Worldia Club. The promotion is valid from now until 30 June 2026.

The Masterclass webinar on 20 May 2026 at 11:00 a.m. offers an in-depth look at routings, products and sales approaches. Interested sales partners can register here and will receive detailed information on the Nordics offerings as well as practical tips for consultation and sales.

‍

Hamburg, April 29, 2026 – TEFRA Luggage Service is responding to the needs of its distribution partners by launching a new white-label version of its successful booking platform. The solution enables partners to seamlessly integrate TEFRA’s proven luggage service directly into their own websites.

With this new offering, travel agencies, online portals, and other partners can provide their customers with direct access to the full range of booking functionalities on their own websites—without redirects or additional effort. End customers can complete bookings independently, while partner agencies automatically receive their standard commission.

"Our goal was to make the sales process for our partners even simpler and more efficient," says Carsten Leder, Managing Director of TEFRA. "The white-label solution combines convenience, brand visibility, and automation, creating significant value for both partners and their customers."

Partners benefit in two ways: they enhance their customer service offering while simultaneously reducing the administrative workload for their teams. The service can be flexibly integrated into websites and actively promoted through email campaigns and social media activities. As always, TEFRA Luggage Service ensures smooth operations, reliable customer support, and the highest service standards—reflected in thousands of five-star customer reviews.

Customers benefit from a complimentary two-hour collection time window as standard. Shipments weighing up to 30 kg are included, along with insurance coverage of up to €1,500 and both collection and delivery confirmations.

With the introduction of the white-label booking solution, TEFRA further expands its portfolio for distribution partners with a future-oriented tool that strengthens brand loyalty, simplifies processes, and enhances satisfaction for all stakeholders involved.

On April 29, TEFRA will send all registered distribution partners an email containing a unique embed code for their respective websites. Agencies interested in becoming a distribution partner can register here; the embed code will be provided as part of the welcome email.

Stolberg, April 21, 2026 – milzer GmbH introduces the FlowConnect Marketplace, a new platform designed to streamline system integration within the travel industry. The platform provides a centralized overview of existing and available system connections, facilitating seamless connectivity between tour operators, travel agencies, mid-office systems, and international suppliers. FlowConnect is already being used by more than 120 tour operators and over 2,000 travel agencies.

The new marketplace offers users a comprehensive overview of all available and active integrations. These include leading mid-office systems such as BOSYS, Argus, Midoco, and myJACK, as well as international suppliers including SETT, Hotelbeds, TBO, and RateHawk. Connections can be activated and managed centrally, enabling integrations to be utilized in a standardized, efficient, and scalable manner. This marks a significant shift away from custom one-off integrations toward a connected industry infrastructure.

Automated Processes Through New Mid-Office Connectivity

A key component of the platform’s evolution is the newly developed mid-office integration for travel agencies. This functionality enables the automated transfer of booking data between tour operators and travel agencies, significantly reducing manual effort. As a result, a previously fragmented and error-prone process is replaced by a seamless and reliable infrastructure.

"We are solving a structural challenge within the industry: systems either do not communicate with each other or require costly, bespoke integrations. FlowConnect serves as a true integration hub—once connected, participants become part of an entire ecosystem," says Michael Eberlei, Chief Sales Officer (CSO) of milzer GmbH.

Open Ecosystem with Strong Network Effects

The FlowConnect Marketplace has been intentionally designed as an open ecosystem. New tour operators, systems, and suppliers can be continuously integrated and immediately benefit from the existing network. This significantly reduces time-to-market for new integrations while creating powerful network effects across the industry.

With this approach, milzer GmbH positions itself as a technology infrastructure partner for the digital transformation of the travel sector. The company’s focus is on building a scalable platform that has the potential to become the industry's central backbone over the long term.

For more information, please visit our website.

Munich, April 13, 2026. Luxury tour operator Signature Kollection Travel is expanding its focus to include exclusive summer trips and, with Finnish Lapland, is targeting a destination that picks up on the current trend toward so-called “coolcations.” This refers to trips to cooler regions that offer an attractive alternative to traditional warm-weather destinations, especially during the summer months. With exclusive retreats such as the Octola Lodge, the region embodies this new form of luxury travel: peaceful, mindful, and close to nature. Aspects such as the climate, privacy, and the chance to slow down are increasingly becoming the focus of discerning travelers.

An exclusive alternative to traditional summer hotspots

With Finnish Lapland, Signature Kollection Travel is showcasing a destination that reimagines the summer travel experience. Instead of crowded hotspots and high temperatures, travelers can expect crisp air, secluded natural landscapes, and natural phenomena such as the midnight sun and the Northern Lights. The region uniquely combines relaxation and activity and is increasingly establishing itself beyond the winter season as a destination for discerning travelers seeking new perspectives in the summer.

Personalized nature experiences and a chance to slow down in a pleasant climate

The focus is on tailor-made experiences in unspoiled nature, deliberately organized in a private setting. Whether guided hikes, canoe trips, fishing, or activities under the midnight sun – the offerings are individually tailored to guests’ wishes. At the same time, the desire for retreat and rejuvenation takes center stage. Finnish Lapland offers ideal conditions for this and makes slowing down a natural part of the experience. Traditional Finnish sauna experiences and exclusive wellness moments also blend harmoniously into this special environment, even in summer.

"We see that expectations for luxury travel are changing. Many guests today are specifically looking for places that offer privacy and authenticity. For us, Finnish Lapland is therefore not only a logical response to the ‘coolcation’ trend, but also a destination where summer luxury is being redefined", says Shahab Kamali, founder and CEO of Signature Kollektion Travel.

Octola Lodge: Private wilderness at the highest level

An outstanding example of this new summer luxury is Octola Private Wilderness. This exclusive hideaway is located within the Arctic Circle near Rovaniemi, the capital of Lapland, and combines extensive privacy with a stay that is thoroughly nature-oriented. The exact location remains deliberately anonymous. On a 700-hectare estate, families, couples, or groups of friends will find a secluded retreat with personalized service: guests are individually accompanied by their own guide, chef, and butler. Private wilderness meets tailor-made experiences, high-quality retreats, and a clear focus on nature, mindfulness, and exclusivity. At the same time, sustainability and a respectful approach to nature and local communities play a key role in the house's concept. Octola is the first five-star accommodation in the Nordic region with a negative carbon footprint. The architecture and materials blend discreetly into the landscape.

Learn more here.

Worldia is further expanding its training offering and invites travel agencies to a 30-minute masterclass on 8 April 2026, focusing on Australia as a campervan destination. The webinar is specifically aimed at travel agencies and distribution partners looking to strengthen their advisory expertise in tailor-made long-haul travel. In a compact format, Worldia will first provide a solid overview of the topic and then demonstrate how such trips can be efficiently planned using the platform.

Practical know-how for consulting and sales

Australia is considered both an aspirational and complex destination. Due to the continent’s vast size and the variety of possible routes, expert advice is essential—particularly for individually planned campervan road trips. Worldia’s masterclass is tailored to these requirements and delivers concise, practical knowledge for sales and consulting. The session will focus on key routes such as the Great Ocean Road as well as Outback itineraries suited to different customer profiles. Participants will also receive actionable recommendations on how to efficiently incorporate local specifics into their customer consultations.

In addition, the webinar will demonstrate how to successfully sell campervan travel experiences—through well-founded recommendations on travel timing, clearly structured itineraries, and compelling arguments for customers seeking highly individualized, experience-driven trips.

“Australia is not an off-the-shelf product—it requires thoughtful planning and strong advisory expertise. This is exactly where our masterclass comes in: we equip travel agencies with the tools they need to sell complex road trips in a simple and compelling way,” says Lisa Gerbens, Deputy Managing Director of Worldia Germany.

Individual road trips as a differentiator in sales

Campervan travel across Australia offers a high degree of individuality and experiential value. For travel agencies, this creates an opportunity to clearly differentiate themselves from competitors and build long-term customer relationships. With this masterclass, Worldia demonstrates how such trips can be efficiently planned and positioned as a premium product within the sales conversation.

Seats for the masterclass on 8 April 2026 can be booked here.

‍

Since 2009, paxconnect has been helping travel agencies make their consulting services more efficient and successful. Over 25,000 travel agents in Germany, Austria, and Switzerland use the consulting software every day to quickly create personalized digital travel offers. Despite its strong market position, the brand’s visual identity had not previously reflected the dynamism and innovative spirit that define it. Our approach? Refresh the existing corporate design and ensure its usability and scalability across all relevant channels. Flexible key elements, an expanded color palette, and new key visuals—the “heroes”—give paxconnect a distinctive voice. The result? A consistent, vibrant design that works everywhere and clearly conveys the message: With paxlounge, travel advisors become heroes.

‍

Period:        February 2022 – End of 2022
‍
Industry:    Tourism, Software Development
‍
Objective:  To enhance paxconnect’s existing corporate design, make it suitable for use across all relevant media, and ensure it is consistent, recognizable, and versatile through the use of flexible key and graphic elements.

Services:

• Corporate Design Refresh 
• Brand Styleguide (including an expanded corporate color system, typography, and design elements)
• Concept Development
• Project Management
• Campaign Development

The Challenge: Until now, the logo had served only as a brand identifier; key design elements were missing, and the color palette lacked flexibility. paxconnect needed a system that would ensure brand recognition, consistency, and adaptability across all media.

Approach: We began by analyzing the existing corporate design and the client’s requirements. Building on this, we developed a new design system that incorporated the logo’s framework and transformed the “Pax” and “Connect” elements into flexible containers that can be used for content and messaging. At the same time, the color palette was expanded and harmonized: Orange remained the central color, while cyan and green were toned down and supplemented with violet and yellow. Additionally, we developed the “heroes” as new key visuals to add emotional impact to the design. The results were presented in a presentation, feedback was incorporated during a revision round, and the final system was implemented—flexible, consistent, and usable across all media, including sales folders, advertisements, social media, news banners, and trade show booths.

Result: The outcome is a modern corporate design that gains a strong brand identity through the key visuals. The design serves as the foundation for further initiatives and is adapted as needed for specific media, ensuring that the brand remains consistent and flexible in its presentation.

‍

‍

‍

Munich, March 25, 2026. Signature Kollection Travel is further expanding its sustainable offerings in the luxury segment and is now offering exclusive gorilla safaris in Rwanda and Uganda. The trips take travelers to two of Africa’s most impressive rainforest regions and provide opportunities to encounter the rare mountain gorillas in their natural habitat. In collaboration with its renowned partners A&K Sanctuary and Wilderness, the luxury tour operator combines immersive nature experiences with sustainable stays in exclusive lodges.

Memorable encounters with mountain gorillas in Rwanda and Uganda

One possible itinerary takes travelers from Rwanda’s capital, Kigali, to Volcanoes National Park, one of the world’s most important regions for the conservation of mountain gorillas. There, experienced rangers guide small groups of visitors deep into the cloud forest of the Virunga Volcanoes to observe the gorilla families living there in their natural habitat. In addition, travelers have the opportunity to visit the Ellen DeGeneres Campus of the Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund, which is dedicated to the protection of primates. In Uganda, the dense rainforest of Bwindi Impenetrable National Park provides another habitat for these rare great apes. More than half of the world’s remaining mountain gorillas live in this protected rainforest area. On trekking tours, guests gain in-depth insights into gorilla behavior and the important conservation work in the Bwindi Forest through interactions with rangers and trackers.

Exclusive partner lodges surrounded by untouched nature

For stays in Rwanda, Signature Kollection Travel partners with Wilderness lodges, which are renowned for sustainable luxury, extraordinary nature experiences, and a strong commitment to conservation and local communities. In the Bisate Reserve, four spacious villas are scattered across the green hillside, combining Rwandan architecture with modern comfort, plenty of privacy, and a special closeness to the surrounding landscape. In Uganda, guests are welcomed by the Gorilla Forest Lodge from A&K Sanctuary, one of the few lodges located directly within Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The luxurious suites are nestled in the tropical forest and offer a special retreat in the midst of unspoiled nature. The starting point for gorilla trekking is just a few minutes away. The Gorilla Forest Lodge supports social and medical projects such as the Bwindi Community Hospital, as well as educational initiatives and income-generating programs. The protection of the rainforest is at the heart of all activities. "Encountering mountain gorillas is one of the most moving experiences Africa has to offer. We work with partners who combine the highest level of comfort with responsible tourism", explains Shahab Kamali, CEO and founder of Signature Kollection Travel.

Customizable with safaris and beach vacations

Gorilla safaris are now available exclusively through Signature Kollection Travel and can be customized to meet guests’ specific preferences. For example, they can be combined with classic safari experiences in East Africa’s Serengeti or a subsequent beach vacation in Zanzibar.

Learn more about the gorilla safaris.

For over 50 years, OLIMAR Reisen has been synonymous with extraordinary and authentic experiences in Portugal—offering the most comprehensive selection of travel options across the entire country. In recent years, the portfolio has been successfully expanded to include Italy, Spain, Cape Verde, Croatia, Greece, and Malta. OLIMAR combines popular postcard destinations with genuine adventures off the beaten path. To capture this special spirit of discovery, we collaborated to create the “Portugal Countryside” magalog. A blend of magazine and catalog, it is both informative and inspiring—and makes you want to discover something new.

Timeframe:     June to October 2023

Industry:     Tourism

Objective:    To further strengthen OLIMAR’s profile as a specialist in authentic trips to Portugal and to specifically drive bookings for Portugal’s little-explored countryside.

Services:

- Project management
- Proofreading and editorial coordination
- Graphic design

The Challenge: Northern Portugal, Alentejo, Central Portugal, the lesser-known sides of the Algarve—away from the beaten path, the authentic Portuguese countryside was ripe for rediscovery. The brief called for a high-quality magalog that positioned OLIMAR as a Portugal specialist: strong in imagery and text, with a premium feel and design. The goal was to spark curiosity—about regions that are far too rarely in the spotlight, but have all the more to tell.

Approach: We developed the magalog strategically in close collaboration with the client. Following the kick-off call, we jointly determined the scope, content, and completion date. Based on this, we developed a page structure plan and designed the layout in accordance with product management specifications. In doing so, we specifically integrated texts written by experienced editors with a regional focus. At the same time, we focused on the graphic design: We optimized the cover, found a fitting name, and implemented the design in an appealing way.

Early on, we engaged potential advertising partners and obtained a printing offer, which we coordinated closely with the client. Through regular meetings and continuous communication, we kept the project on track throughout the entire process.Result: An inspiring magalog that positions OLIMAR as an expert on Portugal—featuring authentic insights and insider tips off the well-trodden tourist paths. The magalog perfectly captures the beauty of the Portuguese countryside, both visually and in terms of content. In addition to an appealing design and high-quality paper, it offers valuable information for travelers and travel agencies. You can still access the online flipbook version via this link.

Are you planning a similar project? We’d be happy to advise you in a free, no-obligation initial consultation.

acvis GmbH has recorded a strong start to 2026. Since its market launch, more than 250 customized travel distribution websites have been implemented based on Travcom24. Many clients have reported a significant increase in online sales—without any additional investment in marketing activities. acvis’ client base includes all sonnenklar.TV travel agencies and Flugbörse agencies, as well as individual cruise specialists and a growing number of tour operators.

‍

Growing demand for digital solutions in travel distribution

According to acvis, this development highlights the increasing importance of digital sales channels for brick-and-mortar travel agencies. Agency websites are evolving beyond a purely informational role: they create additional touchpoints and booking opportunities, extending accessibility well beyond traditional opening hours.

“From the outset, our goal has been to provide customers with a travel distribution platform that effectively combines digital visibility with commercial potential,” says Christian Helbling, Managing Director of acvis GmbH. "For many travel agencies, it is crucial to be discoverable online and to offer customers easy digital access to products and services. This is exactly what Travcom24 is designed to deliver.”

Platform for enhanced visibility, service, and efficiency

With Travcom24, acvis provides a platform that integrates dynamic content, full booking capabilities, and service features within a single system. These include mobile-optimized websites, flexible content customization, and digital tools such as online appointment booking, price alerts, and chatbot functionality. The platform also takes regulatory requirements into account, including accessibility standards.

In addition, Travcom24 integrates with tourism systems such as BOSYS (UI:Office) and paxconnect, supporting digital workflows in travel agencies and simplifying the management of content and offers. acvis sees this development as further evidence that digital visibility and personal customer relationships are increasingly interconnected in travel distribution. For brick-and-mortar agencies in particular, it is becoming essential to be present and bookable online—without losing sight of their local presence and personalized advisory services.

Interested companies can schedule a non-binding consultation here.

As part of ITB Berlin 2026, WORLDIA will host a brunch for travel professionals in cooperation with Cinnamood Store Berlin 3. The event will take place on Wednesday, 4 March 2026 at 10:30 am. The program includes a concise update on current developments around the WORLDIA B2B platform, including the new AI assistant JAI, as well as a dedicated Q&A session. Registration is open until 1 March.

Platform updates: insights and exchange

The event is aimed at travel advisors and industry partners, offering a compact overview of workflows in travel planning and configuration—from initial selection to offer creation. This includes the redesigned B2B platform for travel agencies, which serves as a central entry point and bundles all relevant planning tools on a single landing page to reduce technical complexity in the sales process. A key focus will also be the conversational AI assistant “JAI,” built on the company’s proprietary OdyssAI operating system and specifically developed for brick-and-mortar and hybrid travel distribution.

Lisa Gerbens, Deputy Managing Director of WORLDIA Germany, comments: “We want to bring travel professionals together in an open format and provide insights into how we work and how our platform continues to evolve. We look forward to feedback and direct exchange with our partners and clients. Hosting this brunch together with Cinnamood is the perfect way to round off the morning.”

Lisa Zips, owner of CINNAMOOD Berlin Friedrichshain, adds: “We are delighted to partner with WORLDIA and to support the travel industry’s exchange at ITB with our signature Cinnamoods. During ITB, we’re also offering a special treat in our Friedrichshain store: customers who purchase a box of four and mention the code ‘WORLDIA’ will receive an additional cinnamon roll free of charge.”

Ticket winners on site

Around ITB, WORLDIA will also welcome the ten winners of its ITB ticket giveaway. The promotion was aimed at travel advisors, offering participants the chance to win a day ticket to the trade fair. Winners will be welcomed on site, with the opportunity to meet the team in person and learn more about the platform and its latest developments.

Registration for the brunch is open until 1 March via this link.

Munich, February 24, 2026. Signature Kollection Travel is a new luxury tour operator based in Munich. The company develops bespoke luxury trips, individually curated tours, and sustainable travel experiences for discerning clients. Signature Kollection Travel was founded by Shahab Kamali, who has been active in the travel industry for nearly 20 years. The former Vice President and Authorized Signatory at RTC Rose Travel brings extensive experience in developing high-quality travel products and building international partner networks.

Focus on Curated Private Travel – "Luxury with Integrity"‍

Signature Kollection Travel focuses on travel experiences that combine discretion, quality, and depth. At the heart of this approach is “Luxury with Integrity”: travel should not only be extraordinary but also thoughtfully designed, with respect for people, cultures, nature, and history. The goal is to make destinations come alive through mindful experiences. Instead of pre-packaged itineraries, the team develops individual routes marked by Signature Moments: carefully selected highlights that give a trip its character and leave a lasting impression. "Signature Kollection Travel is an invitation to discover the world mindfully and with integrity – individually, tailor-made, and away from mass tourism. For me, true luxury means taking responsibility and experiencing places in a way that preserves their value. It’s not just about visiting extraordinary destinations, but truly arriving there", says founder and CEO Shahab Kamali.

Trust-Based Partnerships as a Guarantee of Quality

With a clear commitment to quality over quantity, the entrepreneur is blazing new trails in the luxury travel market. The focus is on long-term relationships with guests and international partners, characterized by trust, discretion, and a personal touch. These partnerships have been built up over many years by the managing director. They form the foundation for seamless travel planning as well as access to exclusive destinations and experiences. The company also deliberately involves these local providers to strengthen regional structures and design trips in a way that respects and preserves cultural identity.

Personal Consulting for Extraordinary Experiences

Every travel plan begins with an in-depth meeting to define expectations, travel style, interests, and desired level of privacy. Based on this, a bespoke travel concept is developed, in which every detail – from transfers and accommodation selection to activities – is carefully planned. The deliberately limited number of guests guarantees personalized consultation and comprehensive support throughout the entire customer journey – from the initial idea to well beyond the return trip. For the detailed planning of these individually designed trips, the company also operates with a transparent service fee, which is fully offset against the travel price at the time of booking. This underscores the commitment to independence, the highest level of detail, and uncompromising quality.

Luxury Travel Around the Globe

The portfolio includes, among other things, hand-selected hotels, exclusive experiences, luxury and expedition cruises, private yachting, and travel by private jet. The range of services also includes seamlessly organized exclusive arrival and departure arrangements, discreet VIP services at international airports, and extraordinary experiences such as private hot-air balloon rides over the savanna or privileged access to unique locations hidden from the general public. The geographical scope of the portfolio covers the entire world: from Africa and Asia to North and South America, Europe, and Oceania – including the polar regions.

Click here to visit the Signature Kollection Travel website.

‍

In the first quarter of 2026, Worldia is driving additional momentum in travel agency sales by combining booking incentives for travel advisors with added value for end customers. At the core of the campaign is a prize draw for travel professionals: advisors who book a Southeast Asia trip through Worldia by 31 March 2026 will automatically be entered into a draw to win two Qatar Airways tickets to Japan. The campaign targets both brick-and-mortar and mobile travel distribution and aims to highlight long-haul travel products—where travel agencies can best demonstrate their strengths, from routing to assembling customized travel components.

‍

‍

“In Southeast Asia in particular, customer satisfaction often depends on details such as well-planned itineraries, the right hotel location, reliable transfers, and well-matched activities. Travel agencies invest significant advisory effort here—and we want to actively support this during the campaign period,” says Lisa Gerbens, Deputy Managing Director of Worldia Germany. With every qualifying booking, travel advisors automatically receive one entry into the prize draw. Multiple bookings increase the number of entries and, accordingly, the chances of winning.

Added-value perks for Thailand & the Philippines

Alongside the incentive campaign, Worldia is offering additional inclusions designed to provide tangible added value for end customers. For bookings of at least four nights, travelers receive a complimentary experience as part of their itinerary.

For Thailand bookings, this includes a day trip from Bangkok combining two iconic market experiences: the Maeklong Railway Market—where vendors set up directly along the train tracks—and the Damnoen Saduak floating market, typically explored by boat and known for its vibrant trading on the water.

For the Philippines, the added benefit is a boat tour in El Nido (Palawan), taking travelers through the island and lagoon landscapes of Bacuit Bay, with several stops at beaches and lagoons. Travel advisors can access a dedicated reel with campaign details via ViralSpoon and on Worldia’s Facebook page, which can be shared across social media or directly with clients.

Double points in the Worldia Club

For travel agencies, the campaign is further enhanced by a loyalty component: bookings to Thailand and the Philippines earn double points in the Worldia Club during the promotional period.

This approach is designed to drive conversions not only through the short-term incentive of the prize draw but also through longer-term rewards within the loyalty system. The Worldia Club is a bonus program for travel agencies, allowing points earned from bookings to be redeemed flexibly for rewards after the respective customer trip has been completed.

In line with the campaign, Worldia will host a dedicated masterclass on 11 February. Registration is available here.

‍

Modular tour operator Worldia has completely redesigned its landing page and, with JAI, introduces an AI-powered assistant for travel advisors. The new B2B platform consolidates all travel planning tools, supports the creation of tailor-made itineraries in real time, and is designed to significantly reduce the technical workload in the advisory process.

JAI is built on the company’s proprietary operating system, odyssAI, and is exclusively available to brick-and-mortar and hybrid travel distribution partners. The assistant will be previewed in the context of ITB Berlin, accompanied by a ticket giveaway for the event.

‍

New central entry platform for travel agencies

The new landing page serves as a central hub for partner agencies. A clear, functional design combined with simplified navigation enables direct access to all key travel planning features.

Travel advisors can select preferred destinations, access pre-designed itineraries created by Worldia’s travel experts, and customize them flexibly. Fully personalized itineraries can be configured end-to-end, including travel dates, services, and add-ons. With the Fly’n’Stay feature, flights and accommodation can be combined in a single step.

JAI AI assistant as operational support

JAI is designed as a conversational assistant that supports travel advisors throughout the entire planning process. The AI delivers context-based recommendations, step-by-step guidance, and concrete content for itinerary design—for example when building routes, selecting thematic focuses, or optimizing existing offers.

By combining domain expertise, product data, and real-time information, JAI acts as an operational support tool in day-to-day business, helping to simplify and accelerate complex planning tasks.

Increased efficiency in modular travel creation

The use of AI significantly shortens time-intensive processes involved in creating modular travel packages. The goal is to enable distribution partners to generate offers more quickly while allowing advisors to focus more on personalized recommendations during customer interactions.

“Travel consulting remains a people-driven business. Technology is there to support faster and more precise responses to customer needs,” says Lisa Gerbens, Deputy Managing Director at Worldia. “With JAI, we enable travel agencies to integrate AI meaningfully into their workflows.”

Invitation to connect at ITB Berlin

As part of ITB Berlin, Worldia invites travel professionals to meet in person (Hall 25, Stand 217). In addition, the company is giving away 10 ITB tickets to newly registered travel agency partners. Participation is available here.

Furthermore, Worldia will host a brunch on Wednesday, 4 March 2026, at 10:30 am, including an exclusive training session and Q&A on the new AI assistant. Both existing partner agencies and other stakeholders from the travel distribution sector are welcome.

‍

Karlsruhe, January 8, 2026. Acvis is revamping the digital infrastructure for TVG travel agencies: The Travcom24 content management and sales system from acvis GmbH is being used throughout the entire travel agency system. With this change, the travel agencies are bundling their websites on a uniform, powerful platform – with the clear goal of expanding digital visibility, increasing online bookability, and sustainably improving the integration of online and stationary sales in service areas.

‍

Travcom24 creates a central technical basis for all partner offices for the first time, while at the same time leaving room for individual design and local positioning. This results in a consistent brand image with a personal touch – a decisive factor for local visibility in search engines and attracting the attention of customers.

More than a website: digital sales tool for travel agencies

Travcom24 is not a classic CMS, but rather a holistic digital sales ecosystem for modern travel agencies. Smart functions support a contemporary customer approach and efficient lead processing. The system is complemented by integrated tools for appointment management, newsletters, offer and customer management, and targeted support for stationary sales. At the same time, Travcom24 meets all relevant legal requirements—from GDPR to IT security to accessibility—and thus offers a future-proof foundation for digital sales. A key success factor is the close cooperation with TVG travel agencies: Feedback from day-to-day business is continuously incorporated into the agile further development of the communication and service platform.

Developed from practice – for practice

Behind Travcom24 is acvis GmbH, headed by managing director Christian Helbling, who himself operates several travel agencies. This proximity to operational sales has a significant influence on the development of the system. "Everyday life at travel agencies has changed fundamentally. Today, digital solutions must intelligently combine consulting, sales, and efficient processes. This is exactly what Travcom24 was developed for – and we are very pleased to be embarking on this journey together with the TVG travel agencies,“ says Helbling.

TVG's decision was also based on the company's innovative edge: ”Travel agencies today face a key challenge: remaining personal while also being digitally visible and accessible. Travcom24 not only has smart approaches, but also offers innovative, future-oriented sales solutions. That's what convinced us," explains Dirk Faßbender, Director of Sales & Marketing at TVG. F

oundation for the next stage of digitalization

With Travcom24, TVG travel agencies are laying the foundation for the consistent further development of their digital sales. Uniform processes, a stronger online presence, and new digital sales potential are to be systematically developed in the future – without losing sight of the travel agencies' personal consulting standards. Interested travel agencies can get an overview of travcom24 during a product presentation. Places for the group webinar on January 30, 2026, can now be booked here.

‍

‍

The “LEAD³ – LEARN. EMPOWER. ADVANCE. DEVELOP.” project is a nationwide equality project that aims to specifically promote female careers in the tourism industry. The Eberswalde University for Sustainable Development (HNEE) is collaborating with twelve tourism companies and organizations as well as the industry associations BTW and DRV. The focus is on individual career advancement, structural change in companies, and raising awareness of equal opportunities in the industry.

LEAD³ is aimed at women – including trans and inter women – in three career and life phases: rising talents, established professionals, and silver agers. Over a period of three years, participants will receive coaching and mentoring, while the participating companies will simultaneously develop gender equality-oriented structures.

‍

Broad industry alliance as a basis

The project is supported by a cross-industry alliance of tour operators, destination organizations, and other tourism stakeholders. Partners include Ameropa-Reisen GmbH, Biblische Reisen, Rheinland-Pfalz Tourismus, Bentour, Tourism Turn, Tourismus Marketing Niedersachsen, Akwaba Afrika Reisen, Neue Wege, visitBerlin, KITICON, and Alsharq Reisen. Each company provides project leaders from HR, works councils, or management teams, as well as three participants for the duration of the project.

Scientific management and practical relevance

The project is being implemented at HNEE under the direction of Prof. Dr. Claudia Brözel and Theresa Schmalenbach, M.A. The aim is to combine individual skills development with organizational change and to make the insights gained available to the entire industry. The project team includes Alicia Klein M.A., Katharina Elster, and Sandra Kaliga.

Support from BTW and DRV

The Federal Association of the German Tourism Industry (BTW) and the German Travel Association (DRV) are supporting LEAD³ as network partners. Over the next three years, the associations want to bring the project to the industry through open network meetings and events for all genders and promote the exchange of ideas on equal opportunities – in line with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goal 5 (SDG 5).

Visibility and long-term knowledge transfer

In addition to coaching and organizational development, LEAD³ focuses on visibility in the industry. Female role models, examples of good practice, and project results are communicated via the website, LinkedIn, industry events, and publications in order to provide sustainable impetus for the tourism industry. Funding background LEAD³ will run until October 31, 2028, and is funded by the European Social Fund Plus (ESF+) as part of the program “Shaping the transformation of work through social partnership.” The project is co-financed by the European Union and the German Federal Ministry of Labor and Social Affairs.

There is still one place available for companies in the LEAD³ program. Interested parties can contact claudia.broezel@hnee.de.

Further information on the project will be available at ITB 2026 on the Green Stage in Hall 7.1b. The session “Beyond Intentions: Making Gender Equality Stick in Tourism” will take place there on March 3 from 5:15 p.m. to 5:40 p.m.

‍

Worldia is introducing a new loyalty program for travel consultants on January 1, 2026. With the Worldia Club, the specialist for modular travel is specifically strengthening its cooperation with stationary sales. The program combines a transparent points system with attractive bonus levels and exclusive rewards – and is designed to strengthen ties with travel agencies in the DACH market in the long term. Each travel agency will receive a personal partner account where points, status levels, and benefits can be viewed at any time.

‍Simple points system for all bookings

For each confirmed booking, partners receive 1 Worldia point per euro spent. Once the customer's trip is complete, the points can be redeemed flexibly – including for vouchers and rewards from over 150 partner brands in the areas of gastronomy, fashion, hotels, and entertainment. All information on available rewards, promotions, and the current points balance can be found on the personal dashboard. Points are valid for 24 months from the customer's departure date.

“We know how important dedicated travel agents are to our mutual success. With the Worldia Club, we offer them a program that creates real added value – transparent, attractive, and tailored to their needs,” explains Lisa Gerbens, Deputy Managing Director of Worldia.

Bonus levels with additional benefits

As sales increase, partners move up to higher bonus levels – Bronze, Silver, Gold, Black, and Platinum. Depending on their level, they benefit from additional bonus points and extended advantages. Regular promotions and challenges are also planned, through which travel consultants can earn additional points. The first campaign starts with bookings for the USA and Canada – between December 15 and January 16, 1.5 points per euro of sales will be awarded.

Strengthening the sales partner system

With its new loyalty program, Worldia is strengthening partnerships in the DACH market and further expanding its service and incentive structure for travel consultants. At the same time, the company is creating additional incentives to make cooperation even more attractive and efficient in the long term. Interested parties can find details about the program and register HERE. The team will answer any questions about the Worldia Club at club@worldia.com.

‍

Worldia is redefining USA travel for 2026. Instead of traditional package tours, the company enables the travel trade to offer fully customizable experience-based itineraries that combine authentic encounters, sports culture, and iconic routes.

Key highlights include the 100th anniversary of Route 66, early booking opportunities around the FIFA World Cup 2026, as well as curated sports and cultural experiences. The portfolio is complemented by flexible fly & drive packages, rail journeys, and glamping experiences, alongside unique activities ranging from helicopter flights over the Grand Canyon to encounters with First Nations communities in Canada.

‍New offers for 2026

Sports enthusiasts benefit from comprehensive thematic dossiers covering five major US sports leagues (NFL, NBA, MLB, NHL, MLS), going beyond ticketing to include cultural insights and local highlights. To mark the 100th anniversary of Route 66, a 19-day experience itinerary is available from approximately €2,300. In addition, Worldia is expanding its offering early for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Eight new rail routes along the East Coast, as well as cross-border connections between the US and Canada, further enhance the portfolio.

Extensive destination expertise across the USA and Canada

Worldia divides the United States into ten geographic zones, providing detailed, expert-level insights into regional characteristics—from national parks in the West to the Northeast and the Southern states. In New York alone, travel advisors can choose from 110 hotels, 18 itineraries, and 100 activities. Overall, the USA portfolio includes more than 3,000 hotels, over 90 itineraries, and more than 600 activities. Under the “Sleep Differently” concept, travel professionals can access 114 alternative accommodations—from glamping to unique lodges—77 in the USA and 37 in Canada. “We don’t just offer a portfolio—we provide in-depth, practical expertise for every region,” says Lisa Gerbens, Deputy Managing Director and Head of Source Markets US & DACH at Worldia.

Flexible travel and unique experiences

The USA and Canada can be seamlessly combined through fully flexible fly & drive options. Additional highlights include helicopter flights over the Grand Canyon, ranch stays in Montana and Wyoming, Cajun cooking classes in New Orleans, encounters with First Nations in Canada, and wine routes in California and Napa Valley. Rail connections with Amtrak and Brightline further expand the offering with comfortable and sustainable travel options.

CityPASS or observation deck ticket included

For bookings of at least four nights in the USA made from 15 December, customers will receive a complimentary CityPASS for Boston, Houston, Seattle, or San Francisco—or a ticket to the SUMMIT One Vanderbilt observation deck. The promotion applies to bookings made until 16 January 2026.

Partner registration contact

Distribution partners interested in using the Worldia platform can schedule an initial consultation with the responsible contacts. Philipp Seltenheim and Angela Marchenko are available to support new agency onboarding. Further information and appointment booking options are available here.

‍

The LAZARUS Hilfswerk in Deutschland e.V. charity can look back on over 50 years of social work and the 900-year history of the LAZARUS Order. From the outset, the association has focused on one goal: to inspire young people to get involved in social work and to help those who need it most. Today, the charity is a fixture in elderly and youth care – but its online presence fell short of its own standards. The website appeared outdated and complex. Information about facilities, services and career opportunities was difficult to find, and neither the website nor the social media channels reflected the diversity of the services offered or the personality of the team. Our mission: to give LAZARUS Hilfswerk a digital identity that is as clear, strong and inviting as its social commitment. With a comprehensive brand refresh, modern web design and seamless development, we ensured that the organisation's history and mission are as powerful online as they are offline.

Timeframe: Juli 2022 – April 2024

Industry: Social and care sector

Objective: Develop a modern website for the LAZARUS charity that clearly presents its facilities, services and offerings and conveys the work of the team in an emotive way. At the same time, create a careers page to attract new employees and design and strategically activate social media channels in line with the new website.

Services:

• Brand style guide (including corporate colour system, typography, imagery and design elements)
• Concept development
• Web development
• Roll-out support on the new website
• Photo and video shoot
• Content management

The Challenge: The LAZARUS Hilfswerk brings together numerous institutions and stakeholders with different expectations. The content had to be centrally coordinated and standardised, while at the same time doing justice to the individual identity of each location. At the same time, it was necessary to present historical values and long-standing traditions in a contemporary digital format and to organise coordination between all parties involved in an efficient manner.

Approach: We started with a corporate design refresh to make the visual identity of the LAZARUS charity clear, modern and consistent. We then accompanied photo and video shoots at all facilities to gain authentic insights into the charity's work and create content for the website and social media. For the website relaunch, we focused on modern, responsive design, clear information architecture and intuitive usability, making all offers, facilities and services easily accessible. At the same time, we developed text and image content that reinforced the emotional impact of the organisation's work and brought the personal stories of its employees to life. A dedicated career section now presents job vacancies, benefits and the work culture. For the social media relaunch, we used consistent visual design and emotional content to activate the community and strengthen the brand online.

Result: With the relaunch, the LAZARUS Hilfswerk presents itself online in a modern, clear and inviting way. Users can navigate effortlessly, while stories, photos and emotional insights bring the power of the charity's work to life. The association comes across as professional and approachable, while also presenting itself as a committed employer and active organisation – just as impressive online as it is offline.

Ready for a fresh brand image? We would be happy to advise you on corporate brand design and web design in a free and non-binding initial consultation.

On 15 July 2026, the organiser of the ‘Karriere Kick’ career fair, KITICON GmbH & Co. KG, invites visitors to the Telekom Dome in Bonn from 8:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. Students and training representatives will compete against each other at the foosball table, striking up conversations in a playful way – an easy way for companies to get to know the skilled workers of tomorrow.

Demonstrate Soft Skills, Discover Talents

‍

The students are randomly assigned to different teams with training representatives via their smartphones. Each round lasts two to three minutes, followed by brief discussions about training and career opportunities.

‍

This creates an initial personal exchange in which students can demonstrate their strengths, team spirit and motivation. Even shy young people can engage in conversation here without feeling pressured. The event offers companies the opportunity to discover talent at an early stage and to inspire them to apply for apprenticeships through personal interaction.

‍

‘I am proud that we are able to give young people insights into their career prospects – authentically, inspiringly and, above all, on an equal footing. As representatives of Germany's most innovative career fair, we are creating new opportunities for genuine orientation. The fact that we can make a difference in our home region motivates us greatly as a team,’ comments Janik Vogel, Head of Digital Experience at KITICON and project manager for Karriere Kick.

‍

Strong Local Partners

‍

Companies such as steep GmbH, preventech by Patrick Kelbch and Ferdinand Voigt GmbH have recognised the potential of the concept and are involved as partners in Karriere Kick in order to strengthen the Bonn/Rhein-Sieg region and actively counteract the shortage of skilled workers.

‍

Companies looking for young talents can now secure one of the limited exhibitor spots at https://karriere-kick.de/in/bonn/aussteller.

MOTION TM Vertriebs GmbH has been shaking up the German mobile phone market since 2003. From smartphones to multimedia accessories, from contracts to services – everything here revolves around technology, speed and transformation. But even the most agile brand can stall at some point: MOTION's corporate design was getting on in years, its dynamism fading. The visual identity no longer reflected the innovative strength and energy that characterises the company on a daily basis. Our mission? To get MOTION moving again – visually, strategically, tangibly. With a modern corporate brand design, we have created an identity that conveys speed, change and digital competence at first glance.

Timeframe: May 2021 – October 2023

Industry: Mobile & Telecommunications

Objective: Create a modern, dynamic brand identity for MOTION TM that visualises the philosophy ‘Success means movement’, positions the brand as an agile partner in the mobile communications market and offers a flexible design that grows with the brand.

Services:

• Logo development
• Corporate color system & typografie
• Imagery & visual design elements
• Brand style guide
• Social media
• Business stationery & advertising materials
• Roll-out support

The Challenge: The mobile communications market is constantly changing: new technologies, digital services and increasing competition required MOTION TM to have a strong, recognisable presence. At the same time, the brand had to become flexible enough to serve modular and digital applications across all channels and clearly differentiate itself as an agile, innovative partner.

Approach: We started with a comprehensive analysis of the brand, competition and objectives in order to clearly define the core values of MOTION TM. Based on this, we developed a leitmotif centred on movement, communication and customer relations as a guideline for a corporate design that is modern, dynamic and recognisable. The logo, colours, typography and imagery were designed to convey speed, energy and customer proximity. All elements were bundled in a flexible style guide and implemented across all relevant channels – from business stationery and advertising materials to digital platforms – to create a sustainable, consistent brand image that conveys a sense of dynamic energy.

Result: MOTION TM's new brand identity shows how consistent, dynamic design can change the perception of a brand: it makes the philosophy ‘success means movement’ visible and strengthens recognition. At the same time, the flexible design system creates the basis for the brand to remain consistent across all channels and adapt quickly to new requirements – a measurable gain in agility, customer focus and future viability.

Is your brand lacking dynamics and recognition? We would be happy to advise you on corporate brand design in a free and non-binding initial consultation.

Since 1986, Australia's Scenic Group has been synonymous with luxury travel in a class of its own – on rivers and the high seas. With Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours and Emerald Cruises & Tours, it has made its mark on the market with visionary concepts, award-winning all-inclusive comfort and luxurious travel experiences. One example of this innovative strength is the Scenic Eclipse – an expedition yacht that has been exploring the most remote corners of the world since 2019. In order to communicate this unique positioning even more strongly in the B2B sector and expand it sustainably, we have developed an effective marketing strategy together with the Swiss Scenic team that goes far beyond traditional approaches. It forms the basis for close, coordinated cooperation between sales and marketing, increases sales efficiency and specifically strengthens the brand presence in the DACH region and continental Europe.

Timeframe: Since November 2023

‍

Industry: Tourism

‍

Objective: To further strengthen the Scenic Group's brand presence and effectively support the sales team through targeted B2B marketing measures. At the same time, brand awareness and visibility in the DACH region and continental Europe should be sustainably increased and the market position clearly strengthened.

‍

Services:

• Project management
• Webinar organisation & presentation design
• Social media management
• Community building
• Sales materials
• Print design

‍

The Challenge: The sales team required targeted marketing support to significantly increase efficiency and chances of success. At the same time, close, coordinated cooperation between sales and marketing was needed to effectively relieve and strengthen sales processes through tailored marketing measures.

‍

Approach: From the outset, we have focused on close, transparent collaboration with the Scenic team – with monthly update meetings and comprehensive reporting on all marketing activities. We provide direct and flexible support to the sales team in their day-to-day business, for example in coordinating marketing activities with partners. We regularly create and update sales support materials to ensure the teams are optimally equipped. We increase reach and interaction through targeted posts in B2B Facebook groups. We also assist Scenic in planning and conducting webinars that train travel agencies and qualify them to sell exclusive Scenic products. In this way, we ensure perfect integration of marketing and sales.

‍

Result: Thanks to our partnership-based collaboration, Scenic has developed significantly and sustainably consolidated its position as a premium provider of luxury river and ocean cruises in the DACH market and continental Europe. Over 25 accompanied webinars have already inspired more than 1,000 interested parties and strengthened ties with over 690 travel agencies and partners. Targeted marketing support has noticeably reduced the workload on the sales team and ensured even closer integration between sales and marketing. At the same time, we have successfully increased brand awareness and visibility in the DACH region and continental Europe. Through regular reporting, we are continuously optimising all measures – keeping the Scenic Group on track for sustainable growth.

‍

Would you also like to increase your brand awareness with targeted B2B marketing? We would be happy to advise you in a free and non-binding initial consultation.

At an elegant gala held at the five-star hotel The Fontenay, the Inspire Me Awards 2025 were presented on Friday evening. The Bonn-based agency KITICON Global Networks, together with the travel trade magazine LuxusInsider, honored leading figures and brands in international luxury tourism.

Now in its fifth year, the event once again brought together the industry’s most innovative destinations, products, and personalities. Around 120 distinguished guests from Germany, Austria, Switzerland, London, Paris, Monaco, and Luxembourg gathered to celebrate the winners in a dazzling atmosphere.

“Over the past years, the Inspire Me Award has evolved into a key meeting point for the luxury travel industry,” said Tina Kirfel, Managing Director of KITICON Global Networks and co-initiator of the award. “This year’s event was again filled with energy, appreciation, and genuine encounters – exactly what we aim to create with this format.” Together with Iris M. Köpke and Melanie Haaß, KITICON launched the award and continues to refine its concept each year.

The 2025 Winners

Outstanding achievements were recognized in six categories – with seven awards presented:

• Goosebumps Destination: Sri Lanka (accepted by Honorary Consul Thomas Kriwat)
• Newcomer Product – On Land: andBeyond Suyian Lodge, Kenya
• Newcomer Product – On Water: Luminara, Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection
• Top B2B Event & Luxury Ambassador: Ulli Fink with Vibes – winning two awards
• Luxury Experience of the Year: Polar Bear Walking Safari (represented by Nele Remstedt, Denkzauber)
• Top Luxury Agent: Silvio Rebmann, Cube Travel – chosen by luxury travel suppliers and celebrated by the audience with standing ovations

“Each nomination and every award stand for passion and quality in an industry that creates experiences at the highest level,” added Iris M. Köpke, Editor-in-Chief and Publisher of LuxusInsider.

Jury, Selection and Partners

The jury comprised seven industry experts from various fields. Both nominations and final voting were carried out by LuxusInsider readers.

The Inspire Me Award 2025 was supported by esteemed partners including Grecotel, Swan Hellenic, The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Belmond, Brandcraft, HanseMerkur, LAKRIDS BY BÜLOW, La mer Cosmetics, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, TEFRA Travel Logistics, and Visit Monaco.

“We’re truly grateful to our partners – their support makes the Inspire Me Award possible and helps us create an evening full of appreciation, inspiration, and meaningful connections each year,” emphasized Melanie Haaß, Director Business Development at LuxusInsider.

Insight and Outlooks

All results and jury details are available on the official Inspire Me Award website. Information about next year’s ceremony can also be found online.
A photo gallery featuring the evening’s highlights at The Fontenay Hamburg is likewise available for viewing.

Worldia has introduced a new brochure for distribution partners designed to support the sale of flexible Egypt travel products. The sales folder demonstrates how Nile cruises, cultural stays in cities such as Cairo, Luxor, and Aswan, and relaxing beach holidays on the Red Sea—e.g. in Hurghada, El Gouna, or Marsa Alam—can be combined into fully customized itineraries. At present, attractive early booking rates are available for Nile cruises in summer 2026.

‍

‍Tailor-made travel for every customer need

“The brochure does not present rigid package tours, but rather provides concrete inspiration for fully customizable Egypt itineraries,” explains Lisa Gerbens, Deputy Managing Director and Head of Source Markets US & DACH at Worldia. “All components—from hotels and cruises to transfers and activities—can be flexibly combined. Thanks to real-time pricing and availability, our partners can create and offer fully tailored trips within a very short time.”

Early booking rates for summer 2026

Early booking rates for Nile cruises are now available for summer 2026. Customers of Worldia’s travel agency partners can benefit from discounts of over 25% on departures between 1 June and 15 September 2026.

The current brochure features Nile cruise itineraries ranging from four to eight days and illustrates how cultural experiences, cruising, and beach stays can be seamlessly combined. The offering includes high-quality ships with a strong price-performance ratio.

New brochure available online and in print

Interested partners can view the brochure online here. Printed copies can be ordered via email by specifying the required quantity at worldia@kiticon.global.

Partner registration contact

Distribution partners interested in using the Worldia platform can schedule an initial consultation with the responsible contacts. Philipp Seltenheim and Angela Marchenko are available to support new agency onboarding. Further information and appointment booking options are available here.

Worldia is using QTA Reisesommer 2025 to inform distribution partners about new travel opportunities and product developments. In addition to expanding its rail travel portfolio, the tailor-made travel specialist is introducing Japan and South Korea as new destinations. Both countries are now also available as combined rail itineraries.

New rail connections: expansion in Europe and Asia

Worldia continues to expand its rail travel offering. Following the successful integration of Eurostar, the company is now further strengthening its cooperation with the French national railway SNCF. This enables partners to combine an even wider range of European rail connections in real time and package them into customized itineraries.

A key new development is the expansion of rail travel options in Asia: high-speed rail routes in Japan and South Korea can now be directly integrated into tailor-made itineraries. Travel agencies can offer combined trips between Tokyo, Osaka, and Seoul—including rail segments, hotels, and activities from a single source.

“For many travelers, rail is no longer just a means of transport—it is part of the overall experience,” says Lisa Gerbens, Deputy Managing Director and Head of Source Markets US & DACH at Worldia.
“With these expanded connections, we are creating new opportunities for comfortable, sustainable, and flexible travel experiences.”

New destinations: Japan and South Korea now bookable

With the addition of Japan and South Korea, Worldia is expanding its portfolio with two of Asia’s most in-demand destinations. Travel agencies can now offer fully customized itineraries—from classic city combinations to themed rail journeys.

“We are seeing strong and growing demand for Asia travel with cultural depth and individualized routing,” Gerbens adds.
“Thanks to our technology with real-time pricing and availability, partners can now easily plan and directly sell even complex itineraries in these destinations.”

Networking, updates, and exclusive vouchers at QTA Reisesommer 2025

At QTA Reisesommer on 25 October 2025, Worldia will provide partners with updates on new technical features, current partnerships, and the expanded product portfolio. The focus will be on personal exchange around tailor-made travel and the integration of rail segments into package itineraries.

Partners visiting the stand will also receive attractive 10% vouchers for their customers, valid for bookings in the new destinations Japan and South Korea. The Worldia Berlin team will additionally offer live demonstrations of the platform and answer individual questions.

Partner registration contact

Travel agencies interested in registering for the Worldia platform can schedule an initial consultation with the responsible contacts. Philipp Seltenheim and Angela Marchenko are available to support new agency onboarding. Further information and appointment booking options are available here.

On 10 and 11 September 2025, Berlin was transformed into a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship: the German Innovation Institute, in collaboration with the German Entrepreneurs Platform (DUP), organised the Big Bang AI Festival, which attracted over 8,500 participants and more than 200 speakers, providing numerous insights into AI, business and leadership. On the evening before, selected companies were honoured with the ‘Company of the Future’ award – we are delighted to be among the winners.

An inspiring start: the awards ceremony on the previous evening

After a welcome drink in the elegant rooms of the Alte Münze Berlin, presenter Ines Woermann welcomed all the award winners. This was followed by the award ceremony and group photos. The event concluded with a flying buffet, which provided an opportunity for conversation and networking.

‘The event gave us a great chance to connect with innovative entrepreneurs from all over Germany,’ said Ilka Wymar. ‘We especially liked getting to know the people behind the ideas: young entrepreneurs who believe in their vision, stand their ground and succeed despite challenges.’

The ‘Company of the Future’ Award

The award recognises companies that impress with their proactive approach, commitment and sustainable leadership. Organised by DUP Media and the German Innovation Institute, it aims to highlight innovative ideas and promote exchange among pioneers in the business world.

Tina Kirfel, Managing Director and ‘Heart of Company’ at KITICON, is delighted with the award: ‘We are very honoured that our future-oriented work, our spirit of innovation and our sustainable corporate strategy have been recognised. Especially today, it is crucial to look ahead and consistently continue on our path of innovation.’

Impulses and inspiration

The following day, the festival kicked off with over 8,000 participants, more than 300 speakers, AI masterclasses and panel discussions on topics such as economics, medicine, politics and trade. Personalities such as Frank Thelen, Verona Pooth, Toni Kroos and David Precht ensured a varied programme and new perspectives on entrepreneurial activity and technological developments.

The focus: People and ethics in AI

A key topic was the responsible use of AI and automation. For us at KITICON, it is also clear that this is no longer just about tools and technology, but about ethical issues relating to leadership, innovation and dealing with change. Responsible action and forward-looking decisions are crucial for us to make the digital transformation successful and sustainable.

Our managing director and ‘heart of the company’, Tina Kirfel, was recently a guest at HanseMerkur's 12th Travel Summit in Hamburg – an event that goes far beyond networking. Here, partners of the travel insurance company regularly exchange ideas on culture, politics and society. This year, social engagement was the focus for the approximately 70 guests.

HanseMerkur board member Johannes Ganser invited Sirkka Jendis, managing director of Tafel Deutschland, and Rüdiger Ratsch-Heitmann, managing director of Bürgerstiftung Hamburg, to speak at the event. In the cosy atmosphere of the Peacetanbul restaurant in the Kampnagel cultural centre, they provided fascinating insights into their work – an inspiring start to a day full of encounters.

Social projects with impact

After lunch together, the participants went straight into practice. Divided into two groups, they visited various social initiatives:

• Hamburger Tafel: As part of Tafel Deutschland, volunteers collect surplus food and distribute it to over 1.6 million people affected by poverty. More than 75,000 helpers ensure that around 265,000 tonnes of food are put to good use every year.
  
  
• Jenkitos: The theatre project in Jenfeld helps young people to build self-confidence, expressiveness and personal development. Through theatre and creative methods, young people gain new perspectives and can develop their potential.

‘It was impressive to see how differently commitment can have an impact: while the food banks ensure social cohesion, the Jenkitos open up new perspectives for young people through art and creativity,’ reports Tina.

When technology meets social engagement

Tina was particularly struck by the realisation of how strongly AI influences the work of the Hamburg Food Bank. Food banks distribute food to people in need that would otherwise be thrown away in supermarkets or elsewhere. Thanks to increasingly intelligent systems, supermarkets are buying more selectively, which means there is less surplus – an ecologically sensible approach, but one that has become a real challenge for food banks.

‘I had no idea that AI had such a direct influence here,’ says Tina. ‘It shows how closely technological developments and social engagement are linked today – and how complex the challenges have become.’

Exchange, inspiration, responsibility

The 12th HanseMerkur Travel Summit has once again demonstrated that it is not just about networking. It is about broadening perspectives, recognising commitment and experiencing social responsibility first-hand.

For KITICON, this day is a valuable source of inspiration – both for our agency work and for the attitude of our team. Commitment, creativity and social awareness are not just buzzwords, but a lived reality that we carry into our projects.

The bestfortravel GROUP is a leading provider of worldwide travel experiences, covering vacation destinations around the globe. The group brings together established brands such as Raiffeisen- and Volksbanken Touristik, AtourO GmbH, Raiffeisen Reisebüro GmbH, GEO Reisen und Erlebnis GmbH, and Meine Kreuzfahrt Cruise Center. It also operates the event and ticket platform my-ticket.shop and runs numerous travel agencies in Austria and Southern Germany. In addition to traditional package tours, the company offers themed trips, business travel, cruises, and tailor-made round trips – designed for unforgettable holiday experiences.

In close collaboration with the bestfortravel GROUP, we optimized the new website for the cruise sector with a focus on key SEO aspects and further strengthened the brand presence of meinekreuzfahrt.com through targeted SEA campaigns. We also promoted several campaigns with exclusive offers using customized advertising strategies to sustainably increase visibility and reach.

Timeframe: Since January 2025
‍
Industry: Tourism
‍
Objective: To increase the visibility of the bestfortravel GROUP in the cruise segment and reach more potential travelers through targeted campaigns. The focus was on increasing inquiries and bookings by highlighting exclusive offers and customized promotions. By precisely addressing the target groups and optimizing landing pages, we aimed to maximize the conversion rate and directly boost travel bookings.

Services Provided:

• SEA Campaigns
• Conversion Tracking‍

The Challenge: Beyond improving organic visibility, it was necessary to quickly and effectively increase traffic and exposure for cruise offers through targeted SEA measures. A key requirement was the differentiated targeting of various user groups with specific interests in cruises – whether for exclusive deals or general cruise information.

Our Approach: To ensure successful Google Ads campaigns, we first implemented comprehensive conversion tracking to monitor performance and accurately measure campaign success. At the campaign launch in January 2025, we conducted detailed keyword research to identify high-conversion potential search terms in the cruise sector. Based on this, we developed three customized campaigns addressing different aspects of the target audience and their interests:
‍

• Brand Campaign:
  Aimed at users already familiar with the bestfortravel GROUP, ensuring they see relevant ads that support their booking intent when searching for specific cruise-related offers.
• Deals Campaign:
  Designed to attract potential customers with attractive, exclusive offers during fixed time periods, targeting users specifically searching for cruise promotions and discounts.
• Generic Cruise Campaign:
  Targeted users looking for general cruise information – whether for their first cruise or as returning cruise travelers.

Each ad was closely linked to specially developed landing pages offering relevant information and compelling calls-to-action to boost conversion rates. In addition, comprehensive tracking allowed us to monitor user behavior and campaign performance, enabling ongoing optimization and detailed performance evaluation.

Throughout the campaign period, we continuously made seasonal adjustments, managed budgets precisely, and excluded irrelevant search queries to further improve performance.
‍

Results:

Click-Through Rate (CTR):

• Brand Campaign: Outstanding CTR of 30%, underscoring strong brand recognition and high user interest.
• Deals Campaign: Impressive CTR of 12%, reflecting high interest in exclusive offers and effective messaging.
• Generic Campaigns: Solid CTR of 8%, indicating ongoing potential for further optimization and expansion.

Conversion Rate: With an average conversion rate of 9%, we achieved a strong performance in converting visitors into bookings.

Thanks to continuous optimization and data-driven strategy, we created a stable foundation for the long-term visibility and success of the cruise offerings. These campaigns not only increased the reach of the bestfortravel GROUP in the cruise industry but also helped position the brand as a trusted expert in the cruise travel market.‍

Explore cruise trips now on the meinekreuzfahrt-Website.

Sounds interesting? Meet our SEA experts in a free initial consultation!

Royal Caribbean International is one of the world’s most innovative cruise brands. Since 1969, the company has redefined the travel experience with extraordinary attractions and a wide range of onboard entertainment. In the DACH region, Executive Cruises serves as the exclusive sales partner, managing the cruise business through a network of several thousand travel agencies and providing access to a highly competitive market. From the very beginning, we have supported the German-speaking Executive Cruises team with a wide range of B2B marketing initiatives designed to strengthen local sales and increase brand visibility across the DACH region.

Period: November 2022 – December 2024
‍

Industry: Tourism
‍

Objective: Marketing support for the sales team to strengthen Royal Caribbean’s visibility and positioning in the DACH market.
‍

Services provided:

• Trade Marketing & B2B Communication
  
• Newsletter Marketing
  
• Social Media Management & Community Building
  
• Webinar Organization & Presentation Design
  
• Partnership & Co-Marketing Activities
  
• Website Concept & Maintenance
  
• Print Design & Corporate Stationery
  
• Sales Collateral
  ‍

‍The Challenge: The Executive Cruises team was looking for an agency with proven expertise in cruise line marketing and a strong understanding of the unique requirements of a complex distribution network. They needed a partner capable of aligning diverse interests, reinforcing structures, and developing marketing measures that not only convince sales partners but also clearly position Royal Caribbean within the market.
‍

Our Approach: In close collaboration with the Executive Cruises team, we developed a wide range of initiatives to strengthen trade marketing. These included the conception of a dedicated B2B newsletter series, the launch of a closed social media group for sales partners, and the organization of webinars supported by tailored presentations. Each format was designed to share knowledge and build excitement for the brand.

In addition, we executed co-branded marketing activities with travel agency networks, developed an informative website, and created a comprehensive suite of sales materials – from business cards, roll-ups, and promotional flyers to catalogs and posters.
‍

The Result: A significantly stronger brand presence in the DACH market, supported by a sales team equipped with effective tools, clear communication, and a recognizable brand identity. Royal Caribbean was successfully positioned as a leading brand in the cruise segment, with tangible impact across travel agency sales.
‍

Looking to strengthen your brand visibility in sales and set new impulses in B2B marketing?
‍We’d be happy to advise you in a free, no-obligation initial consultation.

Travel can quickly become a challenge – especially when heavy suitcases need to be transported through train stations, airports, or city centers. This is exactly where TEFRA Travel Logistics has been stepping in for 20 years: with specialized baggage services such as door-to-door, home-to-airport, or home-to-ship solutions for cruise guests. Comfortable, reliable, stress-free.

During the pandemic, travel behavior fundamentally changed. Safety, flexibility, and comfort became more important than ever – along with the expectations of service providers like TEFRA. It was the perfect moment to reposition the company strategically and visually. Together with TEFRA, we developed a modern brand identity that speaks to new audiences and builds trust – with cruise lines, travel agencies, and travelers alike. The focus: clear positioning, digital platforms, and consistent communication. A rebranding designed not just for today but for the future.

‍

Timeframe: November 2020 – today

Industry: Logistics, Tourism

Objective:
To expand TEFRA as a reliable brand for families, frequent travelers, and the 50+ generation through a new brand identity and targeted communication on the website and social media. At the same time, beyond the home-to-ship service, the door-to-door and home-to-airport services were to be expanded, while travel agency distribution was established as an additional sales channel to significantly increase visibility among end customers.

Services provided:

• Business Strategy & Identity
• Corporate Brand Design
• Print Media
• C-Level Support
• Web Design
• Social Media Management

The challenge:
TEFRA operates in a market with very few comparable providers. The goal was not differentiation, but rather making baggage service understandable and attractive as an independent service offering. The target group turned out to be surprisingly diverse: from seniors to families to train travelers. The brand presence had to be modern, fresh, and trustworthy, positioning TEFRA as a specialist in personal baggage services with years of experience – not as a traditional logistics company. At the same time, the added value for both travel agencies and private customers needed to remain clear. And all of this in the middle of a period when travel was heavily restricted due to the pandemic.

Our approach:
The rebranding process began with an in-depth analysis of the existing brand identity. Together with the TEFRA team, we defined the brand essence, target group insights, and brand values with precision. Based on this, a new visual language was developed: modern, clear, and versatile across both digital and print media. Logo, color palette, typography, and imagery were completely redesigned and combined into a modular design system.

In parallel, the brand’s tone of voice was also updated: more emotional, approachable, yet still professional – tailored precisely to the different audiences. As an external marketing department with C-level expertise, we guided the process holistically: from web design and content development to the strategic management of social media activities. On Instagram, Facebook & Co., we created real proximity to the community with inspiring travel themes, service tips, and entertaining content.

‍Results:
Today, TEFRA is far more than just a baggage shipper – the company has established itself as a reliable partner for travel agencies and a direct service provider for end customers. The new brand is visible, clearly positioned, and approachable. For 2025, between 85,000 and 90,000 pieces of baggage are expected to be shipped – a clear sign of growth and rising demand. The website continues to grow dynamically, adapting to new requirements, just like the social media activities, which steadily increase reach and relevance.

Do you want to strengthen your brand and accelerate digitally? We are happy to advise you in a free and non-binding initial consultation.

‍

For many, traveling stands for freedom and adventure – yet it is often associated with stress. Heavy luggage has to be dragged through train stations, airports, or busy city centers. For over 20 years, TEFRA Travel Logistics has been solving this problem with specialized baggage services that make traveling easier and more relaxed. Coordinating this complex service requires qualified employees. At the beginning of 2023, the luggage specialist faced a challenge: for complex positions, traditional recruiting channels such as Stepstone or Indeed were no longer sufficient. The number of applications declined, and recruiting stagnated. Together, we developed a social recruiting campaign with a digital funnel that started exactly where the target group is active – on social media.

‍

Timeframe: March 2023 – November 2024

Campaign periods:

• Cruise Logistics Clerk (m/f/d): 22.03. – 30.04.2023 & 14.03. – 30.06.2024
• Junior Office Allrounder (m/f/d): 15.07. – 26.09.2024
• Trainee Management Assistant for Office Management: 08.10. – 13.11.2024

Industry: Logistics, Tourism

Objective:
Targeted outreach and recruitment of qualified applicants for various positions at TEFRA Travel Logistics through the use of modern social recruiting methods.

Services provided:

• Target group analysis
• Social recruiting campaign
• Recruiting funnel
• Project management
• First contact with applicants

The challenge:
The aim was a pinpoint approach to applicants who could meet the complex and diverse requirements of the positions, especially that of Cruise Logistics Clerk. It was essential to define the special qualifications precisely and communicate them smartly in order to find the right candidates. At the same time, the decline of traditional applicant channels posed a real challenge, one that needed to be solved with fresh recruiting strategies.

Our approach:
First, existing job postings on Stepstone and Indeed were restructured to make them easier to consume for social recruiting on platforms such as Meta and LinkedIn. At the same time, digital personas were developed to target specific audiences. A mobile recruiting funnel was then created with three goals: increasing the visibility of the TEFRA employer brand, presenting corporate benefits attractively, and enabling efficient pre-qualification of applicants. This streamlined the application process and reduced manual efforts between first contact and interview. In parallel, we produced video creatives in close collaboration, authentically conveying core brand messages and USPs.

Finally, we implemented an automated first-contact process: after pre-qualification, applicants were asked via email to send their application documents directly to the responsible TEFRA staff. This increased the number of applications while maintaining quality through pre-selection. TEFRA only decided on a personal interview after receiving and reviewing the documents, after which meetings with selected candidates took place.

Results:
Throughout the entire campaign period, a steady 4 to 6 qualified applicants were generated each week. The automated funnel not only handled pre-qualification but also directed only suitable candidates, whose documents were submitted and reviewed by the responsible TEFRA employee, into the selection process. This allowed TEFRA to operate with minimal resource expenditure up to the final interview invitation.

A decisive lever: the content and visual redesign of the job postings. By transforming traditional job portal entries into platform-ready, target group–focused social content, we achieved above-average relevance – combined with a significantly lower rate of unsuitable applications. Qualified candidates were available for all positions. The strong response, the quality of incoming applications, and the noticeably increased efficiency in the selection process were convincing across the board. As a result, TEFRA will continue to rely on data-driven, strategic social recruiting in cooperation with us in the future.

Are you already visible where your target group scrolls every day? We are happy to advise you on social recruiting in a free and non-binding initial consultation.

‍

Riverside Luxury Cruises steht für exklusive Flusskreuzfahrten auf höchstem Niveau – mit modernstem Komfort, individueller Reiseplanung und einem Serviceanspruch, der keine Wünsche offenlässt. Die Marke richtet sich an ein internationales Publikum mit gehobenen Ansprüchen, das persönliche Erlebnisse, stilvolles Reisen und maßgeschneiderten Luxus zu schätzen weiß. Um diesem Premium-Anspruch auch auf Social Media gerecht zu werden, haben wir das Community- und Content-Management sowie das Paid Advertising für Riverside übernommen – mit dem Ziel, die Markenbekanntheit international zu steigern, Vertrauen aufzubauen und langfristig Endkund:innen für Buchungen zu aktivieren.

Zeitraum: seit Januar/Februar 2025

Branche: Luxustourismus / Kreuzfahrten

Zielsetzung: Riverside Luxury Cruises wünschte sich eine klare Struktur im Social Media Management mit regelmäßigem, hochwertigem Content, professioneller Community-Betreuung und gezielten Paid-Maßnahmen zur Reichweitensteigerung. Im Fokus stand dabei der Markenaufbau – insbesondere in den USA und Europa – sowie die Generierung von Vertrauen und die Unterstützung der Vertriebsziele. Riverside sollte als Premiumanbieter erlebbar werden – nahbar, aber exklusiv.

Leistungen:

• Projektmanagement
  
• Grafikdesign
  
• Content- & Community-Management
  
• Paid Ads & Boostings (Meta)
  
• Strategische Beratung
  
• Datenanalyse & Reporting
  
  

Die Herausforderung:
Vor unserer Zusammenarbeit war der Social-Media-Auftritt von Riverside geprägt von unregelmäßigen Postings, uneinheitlicher Bildsprache, qualitativ schwankenden Inhalten und fehlender strategischer Ausrichtung. Wichtige Basics wie Datenschutzhinweise und Impressum fehlten. Auch eine konsistente Markenkommunikation war nicht gegeben. Gleichzeitig war das Potenzial riesig – insbesondere durch die hochwertige Zielgruppe und den visuellen Reiz des Produkts.

Herangehensweise:
Mit der Übernahme des gesamten Social-Media-Bereichs ging zunächst eine gründliche Analyse des Status quo einher. Anstelle eines kompletten Neustarts identifizierten wir strategisch relevante Ansatzpunkte mit denen wir zeitnah spürbare Optimierungen erzielen konnten. Wir führten ein einheitlichen Produktionszyklus ein, entwickelten hochwertige Grafik-Templates, etablierten ein neues Community Management inkl. individuellem Antwortenkatalog und übernahmen die Planung sowie Ausspielung von Paid-Kampagnen (Meta Ads & Post Boostings). Besonderes Augenmerk lag auf der visuellen Sprache – hochwertige Reels, nutzergenerierter Content und emotionales Storytelling machen die Exklusivität der Riverside-Reisen sichtbar und gleichzeitig nahbar. Ebenso zentral war der Aufbau eines aktiven Community Managements: Durch authentische Interaktionen entstand erstmals ein echter Dialog mit der Zielgruppe, der das Vertrauen und die Bindung zur Marke spürbar stärkte. Durch regelmäßige Reportings und datengetriebene Optimierung sorgen wir für maximale Transparenz und Performance-Steigerung.

Ergebnis:
Seit Projektbeginn wächst die Community auf Instagram und Facebook kontinuierlich – mit steigender Engagementrate und einer spürbar erhöhten Markenwahrnehmung. Die Paid-Maßnahmen performen überdurchschnittlich stark und tragen signifikant zur Leadgenerierung und Sichtbarkeit bei. Riverside Luxury Cruises wird in den sozialen Medien nun als das wahrgenommen, was es ist: eine luxuriöse, internationale Marke mit höchsten Qualitätsansprüchen – klar positioniert und professionell inszeniert.

Fazit:
Die Transformation zeigt: Mit Struktur, Storytelling und einem tiefen Verständnis für Zielgruppe und Marke wird Social Media zu einem echten Erfolgsfaktor  für Image, Vertrauen und Performance. Riverside Luxury Cruises ist jetzt nicht nur auf den schönsten Flüssen Europas präsent, sondern auch in den Feeds und Herzen einer anspruchsvollen, internationalen Community.

Sie möchten Ihre Luxusmarke digital auf Kurs bringen?
Lassen Sie uns sprechen – im unverbindlichen Erstgespräch.

‍

For more than 75 years, Costa Cruises has brought the Italian way of life to the seas with currently nine ships in operation. Whether in the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, the Baltic, or the Far East – traveling with Costa means experiencing hospitality, sunshine, and a piece of Italy, no matter where the journey leads.

But for a brand sailing across the world, it is just as important to know how the world speaks about it. Costa wanted to better understand how guests truly experience their voyages: What excites them? What creates lasting memories? And where is there room for improvement? The answer: a digital sentiment snapshot, straight from the community.

By analyzing comments and reactions on social media as well as reviews on rating platforms, we create an authentic opinion landscape for Costa. With our real-time community management approach – which not only responds but actively listens, identifies patterns, and extracts valuable insights – we help Costa better understand the wishes and expectations of guests in the DACH market. The result: cruises that are not only enjoyable but unforgettable.

‍

Project Period: Since 2021

‍
Industry: Tourism
‍

Objective: Costa Cruises should be experienced as a transparent and approachable brand – through consistent, open digital communication that builds trust, strengthens brand perception, and fosters genuine dialogue with the community. At the same time, community management was designed to support the Customer Care team by handling first-level requests.

‍

Our Services

• Professional management of comments and user interactions on Costa’s Facebook channels in the DACH region
  
  
• Reputation management on review platforms such as Google and Trustpilot

‍

The Challenge

Costa Cruises engages with a diverse – and sometimes critical – community. This requires a clear, professional, and at the same time empathetic communication style. Difficult or inappropriate comments must be moderated factually, without losing the brand’s signature service-oriented tone. The key is to design communication in a way that sustainably supports customers and strengthens dialogue in the long term.

‍

Our Approach

The key to successful community management lies in close and ongoing collaboration with the client. Through regular jour fixes, we align with Costa Cruises on current topics, developments, and priorities. Additionally, we ensure flexible communication via email and chat to quickly respond to new requirements or questions.

At the start of the project, we developed a comprehensive response library for the most common inquiries and topics. This serves as the foundation for quick, precise, and consistent replies – while being continuously expanded to address new questions and emerging trends.

Our community management operates 24/7, including weekends and public holidays, ensuring reliable support at all times. In parallel, we proactively fine-tune the tone of voice to guarantee positive, authentic, and brand-consistent communication across all channels. Regular reporting provides insights into channel development, interaction patterns, and trending topics, forming the basis for data-driven optimization.

‍

The Result

Since the beginning of our collaboration, our 24/7 community management has ensured that Costa is always present and approachable across all channels. The continuous dialogue with customers and prospects fosters closeness and signals: we’re listening – and we mean it.

This visible engagement strengthens trust and brand loyalty. For complex cases, we work closely with Costa’s internal teams to minimize waiting times – often responding even faster than the traditional Customer Care department, which deals with high request volumes. In this way, we transform communication into customer satisfaction – round the clock, at eye level, and with the authentic Italian flair that defines Costa.

‍

Struggling to respond to customer inquiries quickly and manage all channels efficiently? Our experts will be happy to advise you on community management in a free, no-obligation consultation.

Selling luxury travel means selling more than services – it means selling desire. And to market it successfully, you need more than a curated portfolio: you need sophisticated marketing, a sense of style, and a deep understanding of the aspirations of a discerning clientele.

Together with LuxusInsider, the leading trade magazine in luxury tourism, we created an award that does just that: celebrating excellence in its purest form. From an idea, the Inspire Me Award was born – a stage for the best in the industry.

What did it take? A brand experience that meets the highest standards. A carefully crafted corporate brand design that speaks the language of luxury – subtle, refined, confident. A website that gives the award visibility and a digital home – for jurors, partners, and sponsors alike.

The result: a brand that doesn’t just represent the industry’s most prestigious annual event but extends an invitation to all who don’t just recognize excellence but embody it.

‍

Period: Since November 2020

‍

‍Industry: Tourism

‍

‍Objective: Build a strong, premium brand identity for the Inspire Me Award and create an elegant, intuitive website that serves as a digital stage for partners, winners, and jurors – presenting the award with maximum impact.

Services

• Graphic Design
  
• Concept Development
  
• Web Development
  
• Content Management

‍

The Challenge

‍Developing a brand that captures the essence of luxury – elegant and free of clichés. At the same time, creating a website that clearly communicates the award and its categories while staging it as a sought-after prestige event.

‍

Our Approach

From the vision of creating a unique award in luxury tourism, we collaborated with LuxusInsider to develop the Inspire Me Award as a prestigious format with six clearly defined categories – supported by both an expert jury and the LuxusInsider community.

‍

We guided the process from naming and concept development to building a sophisticated brand world: from the striking logo to cohesive brand assets and visual language. In parallel, we created a flexible website that presents the award and its categories with clarity and elegance – serving as the central stage for winners, partners, and sponsors.

‍

The new corporate brand design was consistently rolled out and now serves as the foundation for ongoing development that meets the dynamic demands of the luxury tourism industry. In day-to-day operations, we support the award with regular content for the website and social media, as well as active sponsor acquisition, ensuring the brand grows sustainably and the event secures its place as a benchmark in the luxury sector.

‍

The Outcome

The Inspire Me Award has established itself as a unique and credible seal of quality in luxury tourism – an award whose authenticity and high value are reinforced through genuine voting.

The clearly defined corporate brand design gives the award a distinct identity, subtly and confidently communicating luxury. The website acts as the central platform, delivering transparency and accessibility while powerfully underlining the exclusive positioning of the award.

With each edition, the Inspire Me Award comes to life as an authentic stage for outstanding achievements – a brand that builds trust and makes excellence visible.

‍

Ready to make your brand shine?
We’d be happy to advise you on corporate brand design and web design in a free, no-obligation initial consultation.

Seit 1986 steht die australische Scenic Group für exklusive Reiseerlebnisse auf Flüssen und hoher See. Mit ihren Marken Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours und Emerald Cruises & Tours setzt sie weltweit Maßstäbe: durch visionäre Konzepte, mehrfach ausgezeichneten All-inclusive-Komfort und luxuriöse Expeditionsreisen wie mit der Scenic Eclipse, die seit 2019 die entlegensten Winkel der Erde erschließt.

‍

Um diese starke Positionierung auch im digitalen Raum zu festigen, sollten zwei exklusive Facebook-Communities, eine für Reisebüros im deutschsprachigen Raum und eine für internationale Vertriebspartner:innen in Kontinentaleuropa, dem Nahen Osten und Afrika, strategisch ausgebaut werden. Ziel war es, relevante Reichweite zu erhöhen und qualifizierte Kontakte in aktive Mitglieder zu verwandeln, unterstützt durch eine speziell auf Reiseprofis zugeschnittene Meta-Performance-Kampagne mit Mobile-Lead-Funnel.

Zeitraum: April bis September 2024

‍Branche: Tourismus 

‍Zielsetzung: Systematische Erweiterung der Reisebüro-Communities durch Vorqualifizierung der Partner:innen zur Erkennung ihrer Interessensgebiete und gezielte, individuelle Ansprache durch das Vertriebsteam.

‍Leistungen:

• Projektmanagement
• Performance Marketing & Campaigning
• Mobile-Lead-Funnel
• Contenterstellung

‍

Die Herausforderung: Reisebüros mit einer anspruchsvollen, luxusorientierten Kundschaft gezielt anzusprechen – einige hatten Scenic bereits gebucht, viele jedoch noch keinen direkten Kontakt zum Sales Team, andere bevorzugten bisher Wettbewerber. Es galt, durch gezielte Fragestellungen die Gründe für Buchungsentscheidungen zu identifizieren und Scenic mit seinen klaren USPs als bevorzugte Luxusmarke zu positionieren. Dabei war das Ziel, sowohl neue buchende Partner:innen zu gewinnen als auch bestehende Beziehungen strategisch zu vertiefen – stets unter dem hohen Anspruch an individuelle Betreuung und Exklusivität.

‍Herangehensweise: Ausgehend von den jeweiligen Märkten und Zielgruppensegmenten wurde zunächst ein strategischer Mobile-Lead-Funnel entwickelt. Dieser führte die Interessent:innen durch gezielte Fragestellungen, segmentierte sie basierend auf ihrem bisherigen Buchungsverhalten und leitete sie je nach Antwort in unterschiedliche, individuelle Fragenstrecken weiter. So wurden relevante Informationen für das Sales Team gesammelt. Parallel dazu entstanden für die verschiedenen Zielgruppensegmente – mit Fokus auf Hochsee, Fluss sowie Luxus & Schiff – individuell abgestimmte Creatives, Headlines und Copytexte, die eine optimale und zielgerichtete Ansprache sicherstellten. Innerhalb von Testzeiträumen von 2 bis 4 Wochen erfolgte eine kontinuierliche Optimierung auf jeder Ebene des Funnels, was zu stetig sinkenden Klick- und Leadkosten über den gesamten Kampagnenzeitraum führte. Die fortlaufende Analyse der gewonnenen Antworten ermöglichte es nicht nur, neue potenzielle Partner:innen zu identifizieren, sondern auch wertvolle Erkenntnisse für die allgemeine Vertriebsarbeit zu gewinnen.

‍Ergebnis: Die Kampagne erzielte über den gesamten Zeitraum eine kontinuierliche Steigerung des Lead-Volumens bei gleichzeitig sinkenden Kosten pro Ergebnis. Nach vier Monaten verzeichnete die englischsprachige Gruppe ein Wachstum von 45 %, die DACH-Gruppe ein Wachstum von 18 %. Insgesamt konnte ein Preis von unter 30 EUR pro neuem, qualifiziertem Mitglied erreicht werden.

‍

Sie möchten ebenfalls durch Leadgenerierung mehr qualifizierte Kontakte gewinnen? Wir beraten Sie gerne in einem kostenlosen und unverbindlichen Erstgespräch.

‍

OLIMAR Reisen is a family-owned tour operator based in Cologne, established in 1972 as a Portugal specialist. Today, the portfolio also includes carefully selected destinations such as Spain, Italy, Croatia, Greece, Cape Verde, and Malta – offering flexible travel styles ranging from beach holidays and round trips to golf and group tours. Always personally curated, with an eye for the extraordinary. Guided by the motto “Quality over Quantity,” OLIMAR focuses on personalised advice, handpicked accommodations, and authentic experiences.

Our task was to make these values even more visible on social media. Together, we developed a new content strategy with a clear focus: highlighting the diversity of destinations, building a strong community, and setting new impulses – including targeting a younger audience.

Campaign Period: Since October 2024

Industry: Tourism

‍Objective: To sustainably grow OLIMAR’s social media community and create a strong, cohesive brand presence with high-quality, structured content and professional templates. The focus was on targeting a younger audience – especially young couples and active travellers – with tailored content. To make the brand more relatable and tangible, we showcased authentic behind-the-scenes insights and put the OLIMAR team at the centre of selected formats.

This approach aimed to highlight not only the diversity of travel destinations but also the people behind them, fostering a personal connection with the community and positioning OLIMAR as the first choice for modern Mediterranean travellers.

Services Provided:

• Project Management
• Social Media Marketing
• Graphic Design
• Community Management
• Performance Marketing

The Challenge: To position OLIMAR on social media in such a way that the brand is perceived as more than a Portugal specialist – as an authentic provider of high-quality travel experiences across the Mediterranean. The challenge was to preserve the brand’s hallmark quality while appealing to a younger, digitally savvy audience without diluting its identity.

Our Approach: Close collaboration, clear structures, measurable results. We began by setting up weekly status meetings to ensure an ongoing dialogue with the client. Together, we created customised social media templates for posts and stories, finalised through close coordination. At the beginning of 2025, we jointly defined an editorial and activity plan for the first half of the year, along with a detailed budget proposal as the planning basis.

Weekly content production was strategically split: part was created in-house by OLIMAR’s team, while our agency team developed additional content – ensuring optimal capacity use, quality, and brand consistency. For consistent community management, we created a comprehensive response pool as a guideline for brand-aligned communication. Complementary activities included targeted Meta Ads, two sweepstakes, and ongoing data analysis with regular reporting to monitor performance and optimise the strategy based on insights.

Results: With tailored graphic templates and innovative content formats such as the “OLIMAR Moment,” we elevated the brand’s Instagram presence to a new level. A professional guideline ensures consistent content that is both visually appealing and perfectly aligned with the target audience.

Through carefully selected topics and engaging content, we reached a broad community and significantly increased interaction rates. Within just a few months, OLIMAR’s Instagram community grew by an impressive 30 percent. This success translated into greater reach, improved quality of user engagement, and a sustainably strengthened Instagram channel as a central brand stage. The online presence now appears even more premium, professional, and attractive – a true success factor for the brand.

‍

Would you also like to achieve more with your social media presence? We would be happy to advise you in a free, no-obligation initial consultation.

‍

‍

‍

For over 50 years, OLIMAR Reisen has stood for exceptional and authentic experiences in Portugal – offering the most comprehensive portfolio for the entire country. In recent years, the range has successfully expanded to Italy, Spain, Cape Verde, Croatia, Greece, and Malta. OLIMAR seamlessly blends postcard-perfect destinations with real adventures off the beaten path. To bring this unique spirit of discovery to an even wider audience, we developed a holistic lead generation campaign. Through a mobile funnel and targeted social media activities, we guided potential customers directly to the “Portugal Countryside” catalogue while increasing overall brand visibility.

‍

Campaign Period: September 2023 – January 2024

‍

Industry: Tourism

‍

Objective: To acquire as many qualified end-customer leads as possible for  OLIMAR Reisen through a holistic campaign that showcases the brand’s spirit of discovery and inspires new audiences with Portugal’s travel offering.

‍

Services Provided:

• Project Management
• Graphic Design
• Content Creation
• Performance Marketing
• Monitoring & Reporting

The Challenge:

In September 2023, OLIMAR Reisen launched its new “Portugal Countryside” catalogue, showcasing unique travel experiences in Portugal’s rural heartland. Building on this catalogue, the accompanying campaign aimed to significantly increase OLIMAR’s visibility among end customers and tap into new target groups – especially those who had never booked with OLIMAR before.

While OLIMAR is well-established as a Portugal specialist among travel agencies, the key challenge was to raise brand awareness directly with consumers and engage those most likely to appreciate the company’s authentic travel experiences.

‍

Our Approach:

The first four weeks were dedicated to preparation, with the campaign launch scheduled for October. Once the budget was defined, we developed a mobile lead funnel to target and pre-qualify potential customers for catalogue requests. In parallel, we created engaging graphics based on OLIMAR’s corporate design, tailored to resonate with different audience segments through customised hooks.

After aligning on and approving the content, the campaign went live. Throughout the campaign period, results were reviewed weekly and optimised strategically – with the goal of lowering cost per lead while maximising lead volume. This was achieved through continuous, data-driven adjustments and creative fine-tuning.

‍

Results:

Between October and January, we generated over 200 qualified addresses and dispatched the corresponding catalogues – meeting the expectations of both parties. The campaign resonated strongly with the target audience, who responded positively to all hooks.

Notably, the “gourmet traveller” segment showed particularly high engagement, accounting for over 30% of total clicks – a clear indicator of the strong potential for these travel themes within the “Portugal Countryside” offering.

From a business perspective, the campaign was also a success: with a cost per lead of under €10, the target audience was not only reached but engaged effectively.

‍

Would you also like to generate more qualified leads through social media and mobile funnels? We would be happy to advise you in a free, no-obligation initial consultation.

‍

With the relaunch of its website, Tom’s Private Travel – a luxury travel specialist – now presents itself with a modern, search engine-optimized, and user-friendly online presence. The comprehensive overhaul was implemented by the agency KITICON Global Networks, with the goal of significantly increasing the brand’s organic visibility while delivering a technically robust and visually premium digital solution.

The project began with a clear objective: enhance digital visibility. A comprehensive SEO audit by KITICON revealed that both technical and content-related aspects of the existing site required a complete reset. As a result, the website was migrated to a new content management system (CMS) and rebuilt from the ground up. The result is far from a standard template – it's a tailor-made web presence that aligns perfectly with Tom’s Private Travel’s exclusive offering and allows for future scalability.

A core element of the relaunch was strategic search engine optimization (SEO). From keyword analysis and URL structure to site speed, the new website was built to perform – providing the foundation to reach new audiences through organic search and supporting long-term growth in the digital space.

The visual identity was also completely reimagined in line with the brand’s positioning. Inspired by the theme “A Window to Paradise,” the new design combines stunning visuals with intuitive navigation. This immersive experience is further enhanced by inspiring, newly developed content that showcases the luxurious portfolio of tailor-made tours, premium hotels, and cruises.

“The new website captures the brand values of Tom’s Private Travel in a way that is digital, refined, and user-focused,” says Tina Kirfel, Managing Director of KITICON Global Networks. “We’re especially proud of the custom architecture, which allowed us to address the client’s specific needs while delivering strong SEO performance and ensuring ease of use for day-to-day management.”

“With this relaunch, we want to offer our clients a digital experience that reflects our standards of quality and service,” adds Ergül Altinova, Managing Director of Tom’s Private Travel. “The new site not only simplifies the travel planning process but also presents our brand and exclusive offerings in a modern, professional way.”

With the successful relaunch, Tom’s Private Travel now benefits from a technically advanced platform and significantly increased digital visibility. The collaboration with KITICON Global Networks will continue beyond the project itself – with the shared goal of further strengthening and evolving the brand over the long term.

Tom's Private Travel is a brand of EMU exclusive travel GmbH and has specialized in exclusive luxury travel for over 14 years. The company offers individually tailored travel experiences, ranging from first-class hotels to safaris and round trips to high-quality cruises. It combines maximum comfort, first-class service and special experiences. Together with Tom's Private Travel, we have created a new website that not only reflects its brand essence, but also works optimally in organic searches via Google and Co. The starting point of the cooperation was the desire to promote brand development and marketing and sales activities in general in order to establish itself more strongly in the luxury travel market with Tom's Private Travel.

Time period: since September 2024 (website relaunch: Sept. 2024 - Apr. 2025)

Sector: tourism

Objective: Increase the organic visibility and digital presence of the Tom's Private Travel brand as well as conversions in the long term.

Benefits:

• SEO check and SEO competition analysis
• Design of an optimized page architecture including URL structure
• Screen & UX design
• Keyword analyses
• SEO-optimized content for landing pages including image research
• Programming in Webflow
• Mobile optimization (responsive design)
• Content migration & SEO redirection concept
• Development of a tracking concept
  
  • Implementation of the cookie consent tool
  • Setup of Google Tag Manager account and container including standard pageview events
  • Setting up custom events (form submissions)
  • Setup of placeholders for later use of Google Ads (conversion tracking)

The challenge: An initial SEO analysis showed that a complete restart was necessary, both technically and in terms of content, to strengthen the online visibility of the Tom's Private Travel brand in the long term. At the same time, the organic development of the website achieved so far could not be jeopardized in order to avoid ranking losses. A well-thought-out redirection concept was therefore required that took into account all relevant URLs. In addition, the website was migrated to the modern Webflow content management system (CMS) and completely rebuilt — ready for sustainable growth.

Approach: In close coordination with the customer, we completely redeveloped the new website strategically, visually and in terms of content. The starting point was a comprehensive SEO check, which revealed technical hurdles and content weaknesses of the previous site. Together they decided on a complete website relaunch. This was followed by a detailed SEO competition analysis. Based on the knowledge gained, we designed a new page architecture with an optimized URL structure, which was then converted into a tailor-made screen design. The new image was completely redesigned in line with the brand identity: Under the motto “Window to Paradise,” the design combines emotional imagery with clear and intuitive user guidance.

At the same time, we started content segmentation and keyword analysis. After final design approval, the technical implementation of the new website began in CMS Webflow. Based on keyword findings, we developed search engine optimized content that presents the exclusive travel offer — from round trips to luxury hotels to cruises — in an inspiring way. Appropriate, high-quality images were specifically selected and embedded in the new structure. In order to ensure existing organic visibility, we created a comprehensive referral concept before the relaunch. In addition, a basic tracking concept was developed which, in addition to website performance, can also be used to measure the success of Google Ads (SEA).

‍Outcome: With the successful website relaunch, Tom's Private Travel is not only technically up to date, but also impresses with a significantly stronger brand presence in the digital space. The new website reflects the brand's exclusive claim — with high-quality design, inspiring content and a professional appearance. It also meets the key strategic goals: It lays the basis for sustainable growth in organic reach, strengthens the digital visibility of the brand and creates optimal conditions for increasing conversions. A first clearly measurable result of the relaunch: The loading times of the website have significantly improved. This is due not only to the powerful CMS, but also to the targeted reduction of too large image files, a smaller number of JavaScript files and the removal of multiple image URLs. In addition, there are already numerous new and improved Google rankings.

In addition, numerous new and improved Google rankings are already apparent. By July 2025, the website had already achieved 1,200 new rankings for strategically relevant keywords and a total of 480 ranking improvements.

‍

‍

Have we convinced you? Then arrange a free initial consultation with our web design experts now!

bestfortravel GROUP is a leading global travel provider, covering holiday destinations around the world. The group brings together well-established brands such as Raiffeisen- und Volksbanken Touristik, AtourO GmbH, Raiffeisen Reisebüro GmbH, GEO Reisen und Erlebnis GmbH, as well as Meine Kreuzfahrt Cruise Center. In addition, it operates the event and ticket platform my-ticket.shop along with numerous travel agencies across Austria and Southern Germany.

Beyond traditional package holidays, the company offers themed travel, business trips, cruises, and tailor-made tours – all designed to create unforgettable vacation experiences. Together with bestfortravel GROUP, we introduced the Maldives as a new destination on the company website and made the dedicated landing pages visible in search engines through targeted SEO measures.

Project Period: April – December 2024

‍
Industry: Tourism

‍
Objective: To build a comprehensive, high-quality platform within the existing website that not only provides detailed hotel information but also insider tips and travel inspiration – with the clear ambition of being perceived as the Maldives specialist in the German-speaking market.

‍

Our Services

• SEO potential and competitor analysis
  
• Development of an optimized page architecture including URL structure
  
• UX recommendations
  
• Keyword research
  
• Creation of SEO-optimized landing page content including image sourcing
  
• Implementation and management of landing pages in TYPO3
  
• Ongoing SEO performance monitoring
  
  

The Challenge

The client approached us with the goal of positioning the Maldives as a key destination on its website. Up to that point, the Maldives had not been adequately represented: there were no dedicated landing pages, and as a result, the site lacked organic visibility for relevant search terms. Our task was therefore to design and implement a comprehensive SEO and content strategy aimed at boosting visibility while positioning the brand as a Maldives expert in the market.

‍

Our Approach

We began with an SEO potential analysis on Maldives-related topics combined with a competitive landscape review. From this, we developed a content repository as well as an optimized page architecture, including UX recommendations and a new URL structure for the landing pages.

Once the proposed structure and topics were approved by the client, we conducted in-depth keyword research and created SEO-optimized copy for the landing pages. These texts, combined with curated imagery, were integrated into TYPO3, the client’s CMS. Meanwhile, the client developed additional landing pages dedicated to individual hotels and resorts in the Maldives. In close collaboration with bestfortravel GROUP, we also implemented a custom filter logic for hotel listings.

‍

The Result

A comprehensive directory filled with tips and inspiration for Maldives travelers, combined with steadily increasing organic visibility – positively impacting the overall online presence of bestfortravel GROUP. Explore Maldives travel offers directly on the bestfortravel website.

• 1,560 new keyword rankings (including 153 on Google’s first results page)
• Organic traffic growth: averaging 700 clicks per month

‍

‍

Sounds interesting? Meet our SEO experts in a free initial consultation!

‍

The Bonn-based marketing agency KITICON Global Networks has announced the restructuring of its leadership team. Managing Director Tina Kirfel will now be supported by three experienced leaders: Ilka Wymar has been with the company since the beginning of the year as Commercial Director. Janik Vogel, a long-time member of KITICON, has taken on the role of Head of Digital Experience, leading the agency’s digital team. Isabella Braun now serves as Head of Project Management, overseeing client projects across the agency.

‍

Clear responsibilities for greater efficiency

With this new leadership structure, KITICON establishes clear areas of responsibility at all levels. This not only benefits executive leadership but also empowers the operational teams. The restructuring enables better coordination of workflows, more targeted task delegation, and more efficient use of resources. The overarching goal: to further develop the agency and enhance client service.

Leadership roles at a glance

Janik Vogel leads the digital team, which is responsible for SEO, social recruiting, and performance marketing campaigns. In his role, he coordinates all digital projects and serves as a central link between the specialist team and senior leadership—ensuring digital strategies are planned and executed efficiently. The team’s focus is on smart, precise communication: developing strategic concepts, making data-driven decisions, and leveraging AI to effectively reach target audiences and deliver measurable results for clients.

Isabella Braun is in charge of project management. Her focus lies in strategically developing the agency’s project portfolio and strengthening the connection between project managers and leadership. “My goal is to seamlessly connect our internal teams and continue improving the collaboration between KITICON and our clients,” she says. Her coordinating role will further enhance the client-agency relationship in the long term.

Ilka Wymar is responsible for KITICON’s commercial and strategic development. With 30 years of experience in tourism sales, in-depth travel tech expertise, and a strong industry network, she brings a wealth of knowledge to the agency. Ilka has a keen ability to align sales and marketing goals with IT implementation—driving long-lasting, high-quality solutions with a strong focus on conversion optimization.

Focused on clients and growth

This realignment gives Tina Kirfel the entrepreneurial space to focus on KITICON’s strategic development. “With our new leadership structure, we’re better positioned to achieve our growth targets and serve our clients even more effectively,” she says. KITICON is thus investing in stable leadership and streamlined processes to continue growing in a fast-paced, competitive market.

Vacation at Sea is a travel agency specializing in cruises for employees in the tourism and aviation industries, offering them exclusive special rates. The offering ranges from heavily discounted cruises to additional travel services such as hotel stays, transfers, or onboard add-on packages.

Right from the start of the project, the Facebook groups managed had a stable and active member base. However, in order to exploit the full potential of these communities, the client set a clear goal: the groups should not only continue to grow organically, but also be expanded in a targeted manner by addressing new interested parties. The aim was not only to attract these new members to the groups, but also to develop them into active users and booking customers in the long term.

Period: April 2023 to April 2025

Industry: Tourism

Goal: Continuous community growth within closed Facebook groups and the acquisition of members who have a high intend to book.

Services:

• Strategic development of a KITICON mobile lead funnel
• Development of creatives and copy texts
• Establishment and further development of target groups for individual customer segments
• Project management

The Challenge: A major challenge was to gain a deeper understanding of the diverse members within the communities and to build suitable target audience segments with a high expected booking intent. This was essential to ensure that our messaging reached the right people — with minimal wastage and significantly greater impact.

Approach: Based on the defined target group segments, we first developed a KITICON mobile lead funnel. This funnel structured the user guidance in such a way that, after initial contact, interested parties were automatically assigned to the appropriate segments based on specific questions. This paved the way for a personalized approach and a targeted invitation to join the appropriate community.

For each segment, we created customized creatives, headlines, and copy texts that were individually tailored to the respective interests and needs. In several test phases lasting 4 to 6 weeks each, all assets were continuously evaluated and optimized. After only about four months, conversion rates of up to 20% were achieved.

As the campaign progressed—around six months after its launch—communication became more emotional and personalized, partly through the increased use of authentic video material (UGC) from employees. This ensured an authentic, approachable tone. At the same time, current viral trends were identified, adapted, and specifically integrated into the content strategy in order to further increase interaction and click rates and boost the relevance of the campaign.

Result: By using the KITICON Mobile Lead Funnel as part of the social ads campaign, we were able to target relevant audiences with pinpoint accuracy and convert them into valuable leads. With a remarkable return on ad spend of 354% on the generated booking commission, the campaign not only underscores its high efficiency but also its cost-effectiveness—a clear sign of the successful use of performance marketing in the B2B sector.

‍B2B lead generation via social media channels does much more than simply increase reach: it delivers directly measurable, economically relevant results. The campaign achieved its central goal of generating qualified leads for Vacation at Sea's Facebook communities and stands as a compelling example of data-driven marketing strategies with proven success.

‍

Are you ready to take the next step? Schedule a free consultation with our experts and discover how we can help you achieve your goals!

Behind the brand Smieten stands MOTION TM Vertriebs GmbH, which has been one of the leading online retailers in the telecommunications market for over 20 years. With a broad range of services – from product sourcing to electronics take-back – the company recognized early on: the lifespan of high-quality devices often ends too soon.

‍

The answer? A new business model: rent instead of buy. Technology should be flexible to use, conserve resources, and provide services for both private and business customers. This is how Smieten was born – a subsidiary with the goal of making smart devices accessible without long-term commitments or high upfront costs.

‍

What was missing at this point? A clear and convincing brand identity. That’s where we came in: together, we built Smieten strategically, visually, and structurally. Through a redesign, precise positioning, and optimized digital processes, the idea grew into a brand that delivers on its promise.

Timeframe: May 2022 – present

‍

Industry: Telecommunications

‍

Objective: To create a clear and consistent brand identity for Smieten that communicates the innovative rental concept across all communication channels, establishing the brand as a trustworthy and modern solution for flexible technology use.

‍

Services:

• Business Strategy & Identity
• Corporate Brand Design
• UX Design
• Content Marketing & Management
• Social Media Marketing

‍

The Challenge: Turning a promising idea into a strong brand.

‍
What was needed was a clear, consistent identity that could communicate the flexible rental concept in a simple, credible, and convincing way. To achieve this, we had to dive deep into internal workflows and digital processes and optimize them with precision.

‍

Our Approach: We focused on close collaboration and regular exchange with the client. Weekly meetings ensured we were always up to date, and regular on-site visits were a natural part of the process. Modern graphic design and professional copywriting for the website provided the creative foundation. In parallel, the UX design was revamped and the customer journey strategically optimized to improve the user experience. Authentic photo and video shoots on-site created engaging content for social media and the website. Our project management team coordinated all building blocks and worked closely with the client’s other service providers. By immersing ourselves in the company and its processes, we ensured that the core idea and objectives were consistently implemented at every step.

‍

The Result: Smieten has evolved into a fully developed brand and today convinces with a clear, strong positioning. The new website authentically reflects the flexible rental concept and speaks to customers in a direct and understandable way. As a result, Smieten is not only highly visible but has also established itself as a trustworthy brand that truly excites its audience.

‍

Would you like to strengthen your brand and kick-start your digital growth? We’ll be happy to advise you in a free, no-obligation initial consultation.

SEO - Visibility That Works
With professional search engine optimization, we ensure that your website is found on Google & Co - by the right target groups, at the right time.
Discover your new SEO agenvy

‍
Social recruiting - Attracting Talent in a Targeted Manner
We support you in positioning yourself as an attractive employer and reaching qualified specialists via digital channels.
Discover your new recruiting agency‍‍

‍
Social media - Relevance in the Digital Public Sphere
From strategy to content creation: we ensure that your brand is visible, relevant and open to dialogue on social media.
Discover your new social media agency

‍

Lead generation - Contacts That Convert
Whether B2B or B2C: we develop data-based strategies to systematically attract new prospects for your offer.
Discover your new lead generation agency

‍

Web Design – A Digital Presence That Makes an Impact
We create websites that not only look great but also deliver strong functionality. User-friendly, fully responsive, and tailored to your target audience – for a powerful first impression and lasting success.
Discover your new web design agency

‍

Public Relations – Bringing Relevant Stories to the Media
We place your messages where they matter most – through strategic media relations, well-crafted stories, and strong editorial contacts.
Discover your new PR agency

‍

GEO – Securing Visibility in AI Search Systems
Whether ChatGPT, Perplexity, or Google AI Overviews – we strategically optimize your content for AI, ensuring your brand remains visible in the world of large language models.
Discover your new GEO agency

‍

Print Design – Your Brand Presence in Premium Print
‍We create print products that make your brand visible, build trust, and leave a lasting impression – from business cards and brochures to trade show displays.
Discover our Print Design Services now

‍

SEA – Driving Success with Tageted Search Advertising
With precisely managed search campaigns, we position your brand ahead of the competition, generate qualified leads, and maximize budget efficiency. our brand visible, build trust, and leave a lasting impression – from business cards and brochures to trade show displays.
Discover our SEA Services now

‍

UX Design – Digital Experiences That Inspire Users
We create experiences that users understand, enjoy, and trust – from the first concept to a fully refined interface that strengthens your brand.
Discover our UX Design Services now

‍

B2B Marketing – Reach and Convince Business Customers with Precision

‍We develop strategies that make your brand visible in the B2B sector, build trust, and generate high-quality leads.

Discover our B2B Marketing Services now

‍

Corporate Design & Identity – Make Your Brand Stand Out
‍
We create a consistent brand identity that builds trust, remains memorable, and is instantly recognizable – from logos and print materials to digital touchpoints.
‍
Discover our Corporate Design & Identity Services now

‍

Travel-Tech Expertise – Streamlined Operations for Your Travel Business
‍
We seamlessly integrate your booking systems and applications while automating workflows to boost efficiency, reduce errors, and ensure smooth bookings.

Discover our Travel-Tech Services now

‍

Content Marketing Expertise – Visibility and Relevance for Your Brand

We develop impactful content strategies that reach your target audience and strengthen your brand. With data-driven insights, creative storytelling, and cross-channel execution, we drive greater reach, engagement, and sustainable growth.

Discover our Content Marketing Service now

‍

Direct Marketing Expertise – Predictable B2C Customer Acquisition
‍
We organize your channels, data, and processes into a clear, performance-driven setup: reporting, segmentation, testing, and budget management. This way, you always know what’s working—and can scale with confidence.
‍
Discover our Direct Marketing Services Now

‍

‍

Discover our new service pages and find out how we can bring your project forward in a targeted manner.‍

We are currently working at full speed to complete the pages for our other services for you. More content will follow shortly.

With its Exclusive Service Living, the SCHÖNES LEBEN Group (SLG) offers a modern home for people who want to live independently and have access to convenient services when needed. The offer combines individual living concepts with a varied program of health, culture, culinary delights, sport, care and nursing. Together with SCHÖNES LEBEN, we have developed the digital magazine “hier & jetzt”. It was established as a new section on the website and perfectly complements the customer's range of services with informative articles on the topics of vitality, joie de vivre, enjoyment and living space.

Period:         since April 2023

‍

Sector:          Healthcare and Social Services

‍

Objective: A magazine for the SCHÖNES LEBEN Group that not only informs all target groups, but also performs in search engines.

‍

Services:

• Design concept and naming
• Implementation in WordPress
• Topic and keyword research
• SEO consulting and content briefings for authors
• Writing selected SEO-optimized texts

‍

The challenge: Creating trust, showing competence and increasing brand awareness - the SCHÖNES LEBEN Group approached us with these goals and a concept idea for a digital magazine that combines all of this. The aim was not only to emphasize the company's own expertise, but also to gain visibility organically. At the same time, the magazine was to shed light on the topic of “ageing” in all its facets, redefine the view of old age itself and offer authentic insights into everyday care and behind the scenes of the various homes.

‍

Approach: We strategically developed the magazine in close cooperation with the client. First, we took on the conception, including the graphic development and programming of the magazine in WordPress. We then developed suitable sections and individual SEO texts with added value for relatives, interested parties and best agers. Potential and topic research was carried out for these articles and collected in a topic repository. Once the client had approved the selected topics, the keyword research began. The texts were then written by various authors with different specialist expertise.

‍

The result: A successful SEO magazine with increasing visibility, which is now the directory with the strongest performance and therefore has a particularly positive effect on the overall visibility of the SCHÖNES LEBEN Group website. Discover the „hier & jetzt“-magazine of the SCHÖNES LEBEN Group.

‍

‍

‍

‍

Were we able to convince you? Then arrange a free initial consultation with our SEO experts now!

‍

In a digitalised working world, efficient communication, flexible collaboration, and location-independent working are essential. This is exactly where Google Workspace comes in – Google's cloud-based productivity platform. As a certified Google Workspace Partner, we show you how to future-proof your business – and why switching to a modern cloud workspace is well worth it.

‍

What is the Google Workspace?

‍

Google Workspace is a comprehensive cloud solution that combines all the tools teams need for their daily work – whether in the office, working from home or on the move:

‍

• Gmail – Professional e-mail with your own domain
• Google Drive – Cloud storage for secure data storage and sharing
• Google Docs, Sheets, Slides – Online tools for collaborative editing of documents
• Google Meet – High quality video conferencing
• Google Kalender – Simple team scheduling
• Google Chat & Spaces – Communication and project management in one tool

‍

Thanks to the completely cloud-based structure, there is no need for installation and maintenance – work is possible anytime and anywhere.

‍

The Advantages at a Glance:

‍

‍1. Efficient Collaboration

Collaborative work on documents, direct feedback and immediately visible changes – digitally, quickly and effectively.

‍

2. Seamless Integration

E-mails, meetings, calendars and files – everything is intelligently linked.

‍

3. Maximum Security

Google relies on the highest security standards to ensure reliable and worry-free operation. This includes, among other things:

‍

• Data centres with multiple security and isolation levels that effectively secure physical and digital access.
• Specially developed hardware, such as the Titan security chips, which provide additional protection through secure boot and integrated security functions.
• Comprehensive risk protection that goes beyond pure risk assessment and monitoring – including unique cyber insurance cover and protection against cryptomining attacks.
• Fine-grained access controls for applications based on factors such as user identity, location, device security status and IP address.

‍

4. Compliance/Rights Management

Google Workspace supports your company in complying with legal requirements and internal company guidelines – with powerful, integrated tools:

‍

• Data loss prevention (DLP) and data classification help to clearly identify confidential information. Once the risk profile has been defined, targeted protective measures can be implemented – e.g. preventing file downloads or blocking sharing.
• Audit logs and transparency reports provide traceable logs for security-relevant activities.
• Vault enables legally compliant archiving, e-discovery and retention policies for emails, chats and files.
• Access and release rules can be customised to protect sensitive data and meet compliance requirements such as GDPR, ISO 27001 or HIPAA.

‍

5. Flexible and Scalable

Google Workspace can be implemented individually in any size of company and developed further to meet your requirements.

‍

6. Increase Productivity

Automatic synchronisation, intelligent search and cloud-based processes save valuable time every day.

‍

7. AI Offers

Gmail's advanced AI protection prevents more than 99.9% of spam, phishing and malware messages from reaching your inbox. Google Workspace also includes access to Gemini, which can automatically write summaries in documents, formulate texts or organise appointments in Google Calendar.

‍

In Which Areas Does Google Workspace Score Particularly Well Compared to Traditional Office Solutions?

‍

• Access from anywhere – no installation required
• Real-time collaboration instead of file chaos
• Complete cloud solution with uncomplicated IT maintenance
• Flexible licence models without long-term commitment
• Large selection of already integrated functions – without complicated additional systems

‍

Set up Google Workspace – with KITICON as a Partner by Your Side

‍

As a certified Google Workspace Partner, we offer you full service for a smooth start:

• Consultancy & requirements analysis
• Set-up & migration
• Training for teams and admins
• Ongoing support & further development

‍

Get Non-Binding Advice Now!

‍

Would you like to introduce Google Workspace or optimise your existing setup? Arrange a free consultation with us now!

The latest deal is only a few days old: at the beginning of May 2025, Simon Milz's company ‘milzer’, which focuses on customised software solutions for specialist tour operators, and Tina Kirfel's marketing agency KITICON Global Networks entered into a partnership. ‘As a marketing agency with a focus on tourism, our aim is to deliver measurable results – from visibility to conversion,’ emphasises the proven travel expert, who wants to set ‘new standards in digital customer service in the tourism industry’ with immediate effect through the collaboration – also in Austria. T.A.I. spoke to the Managing Director of the agency, which was founded in 2017.

No Standard Solution, but Strategies

‍

T.A.I.: Your agency KITICON Global Networks is comparatively young. What is special about it?‍

‍

Tina Kirfel: "As you rightly realise, we are a young, dynamic agency. We currently work with a highly motivated team of around 20 people and that's exactly what our customers feel. Our strength lies in the fact that we don't think in old patterns, but break new ground."‍

‍

T.A.I.: What does this look like?

‍

Tina Kirfel: "We combine fresh ideas with sound marketing expertise, especially for the tourism industry. We focus on measurable results, i.e. lead generation, increasing the conversion rate (editor's note: a KPI – key performance indicator from online marketing that reflects the ratio of website visitors to actual purchases, transactions or downloads as well as newsletter registrations) and targeted communication. Our customers don't get a standard solution, but strategies that fit their market and target group."

‍

Deep Understanding of Travellers' Needs

‍

T.A.I.: You have specialised in tourism with KITICON. Why this industry in particular? ‍

‍

Tina Kirfel: "I come from the tourism industry myself and have got to know it from many different angles. It's emotional, diverse and constantly changing! What particularly excites me is that it's all about real experiences. And that's exactly what we try to convey in our marketing. We translate a passion for travel into effective communication that makes people want to book."

‍

T.A.I.: In what form?‍

‍

Tina Kirfel: "Thanks to my many years of experience in the tourism and cruise industry, including at Hapag Lloyd Cruises and Silversea, I have developed a deep understanding of the needs of travellers and can incorporate this perspective into our work."

‍

T.A.I.: What services does KITICON offer specifically for travel agencies or tour operators?

‍

Tina Kirfel: "In the B2B sector in particular, we rely heavily on mobile lead funnels - in other words, intelligent campaign structures for every conceivable placement in order to generate new contacts in a targeted manner. Many travel agencies and tour operators are now faced with the challenge of remaining digitally visible and building trust at the same time. We help them with customised marketing strategies, funnel concepts and the right content support."

‍

SEO, Content and AI

‍

T.A.I.: Since you're talking about visibility - what role does search engine optimisation (SEO) play in this?

‍

Tina Kirfel: "A very big one. Visibility starts with the right keyword strategy and that's exactly where we focus. We analyse how the selected target groups search online, which terms are relevant in the respective markets and then use these insights in a targeted manner, for example in texts, blog articles or in the structure of websites. GEO, not to be confused with geotargeting, is particularly topical. GEO stands for “Generative Engine Optimisation” – a new approach in digital marketing that focuses on designing content in such a way that it is optimally processed and displayed by generative AI search systems such as ChatGPT, as users' search behaviour is currently undergoing massive changes. We have well-trained experts who develop and implement customised strategies for our clients."

‍

T.A.I.: How does KITICON approach content?

‍

Tina Kirfel: "We provide our clients with holistic support, from editorial planning and content creation to community management. We pay attention to brand identity, tonality and target group accuracy. Our aim is to create content that not only looks good, but also sells. And as efficiently as possible."

‍

T.A.I.: To what extent does AI (artificial intelligence) already play a role in your work?‍

‍

Tina Kirfel: "AI is now an integral part of our daily work, be it in copywriting, keyword analysis or campaign management. However, we don't use AI tools to replace human creativity, but to support it! This allows us to react more quickly to market trends and work more precisely. And, of course, we also advise our customers on the professional use of AI in marketing."

‍

Cooperation at Eye Level

‍

T.A.I.: Many agencies talk about ‘performance’ - what does that mean for you specifically?‍

‍

Tina Kirfel: "For us, performance is not a buzzword, but a promise. We think data-driven, but at the same time creatively. Whether “social ads”, SEO or newsletters - we measure what works and optimise continuously. This is particularly important in tourism because purchasing decisions are often emotional, but also driven by price and time."

‍

T.A.I.: How do you manage to maintain a personal relationship with your customers despite all this speed?‍

‍

Tina Kirfel: "We attach great importance to close collaboration on an equal footing. Many of our clients stay with us for years because they know that we not only deliver, but also think along with them. As a smaller agency in particular, we have the advantage of being able to react flexibly and provide customised support. We are not an anonymous service provider, but a strategic partner."

‍

T.A.I.: What do your clients particularly appreciate about KITICON?‍

‍

Tina Kirfel: "That we don't just process orders, but really engage with their goals and challenges. And that we can do tourism. Our customers realise that we speak their language, understand their target groups and have the right feel for topics, timing and tonality. Added to this is our high level of technical expertise – from automated lead generation to conversion optimisation."

‍

T.A.I.: Where is KITICON heading in the coming years?‍

‍

Tina Kirfel: "We are continuing to grow together with our customers - both nationally and internationally. Tourism remains our centrepiece, but we are also tapping into new sectors. What drives us is the combination of a passion for travel, digital excellence and the desire to create sustainable momentum and initiate real change."

milzer GmbH is entering a partnership with KITICON GmbH & Co. KG to provide even more comprehensive, efficient and effective support for its customers in the tourism industry. In the future, KITICON will assume responsibility for extended customer service – with a broad portfolio of digital marketing solutions.

‍

‘Together for your success’ – under this motto, the new cooperation combines technological excellence with strategic marketing expertise. milzer GmbH continues to contribute its many years of expertise in tourism web solutions and process optimisation, while KITICON, as a marketing specialist, is now responsible for individual customer support, SEO-optimised content production and performance optimisation.

‍

"We are very pleased about the partnership with milzer GmbH. As a marketing agency focussing on the tourism industry, our aim is to deliver measurable results – from visibility to conversion. By working closely together, we develop integrated solutions for milzer customers that are both technically and communicatively convincing," says Tina Kirfel, Managing Director of KITICON Global Networks.

‍

The extended range of services includes search engine optimisation (SEO) and search engine advertising (SEA). KITICON also offers comprehensive expertise in content creation, visual design as well as consulting, maintenance and optimisation of websites – even after they go live, of course.

‍

"With KITICON at our side, we are creating a whole new level of support for our customers: While we focus on our technical strengths, KITICON complements our offering with strategic marketing expertise. Together, we offer support that not only works, but really helps," explains Simon Milz, Managing Director of milzer GmbH. With this new partnership, milzer GmbH and KITICON are setting new standards in digital customer care in the tourism industry – technologically sound, strategically well thought-out and very close to the customer's needs. For further information or a non-binding consultation, please contact the team at milzer@kiticon.global.

The Club der Macherinnen kicked off a unique network that brings women in tourism together on 3 April. KITICON Global Networks was there as a partner and supports the initiative, which is committed to empowering and promoting women in tourism. Managing Director Tina Kirfel contributed her experience in a panel discussion and spoke about the importance of networking in the industry.

A strong network for women in tourism‍

The Club der Macherinnen, founded by Anna Schwingenschlögl and Christiane Bläser, is the first network explicitly aimed at women in tourism. In a constantly changing industry, women play a central role - through their expertise, their commitment and their innovative strength. The aim of the initiative is to network women, support them in their professional development and jointly provide impetus for the future of the industry.

Commitment to networking and empowerment‍

As an agency with deep roots in tourism, KITICON Global Networks is convinced that strong networks are crucial to shaping change. ‘Personally, I am passionate about being a leader and love promoting women, encouraging them and making their strengths visible,’ explains Managing Director Tina Kirfel. ‘Any network that brings women together and supports them is important. That's why it's a matter close to my heart to support the Club der Macherinnen.’

Exchange, inspiration and new ideas in Berlin‍

The event not only offered participants inspiring examples of best practice, but also a wide range of opportunities for direct dialogue with industry experts. Workshops, presentations and interactive networking formats were organised under the motto ‘Courage MAKERS’ and provided practical inspiration for professional development. With suggestions for self-employment and entrepreneurship as well as a clear focus on collaboration and mutual support, the network sent a powerful signal for more visibility and influence for women in travel sales.

Thinking ahead together – the future of the network

At the end of the event, the participants discussed in small groups how the format could be continued in the future. It was particularly important to the two organisers to include all voices and take into account the wishes of those present. Various topics were mentioned, including technical developments such as artificial intelligence, finance and insurance, as well as work-life balance and cross-generational dialogue between young and experienced female tourism professionals.

The target group is also to be expanded in the future: All female tourism professionals are invited to become part of the network. The network sees itself as a platform for in-depth, sustainable communication and aims to strengthen both professional and personal dialogue.

The Inspire Me Award celebrates its fifth anniversary in 2025 and will once again honor leading personalities and brands in the field of luxury tourism. On October 24, the award ceremony will take place at The Fontenay in Hamburg. It is organized by LuxusInsider, the leading German luxury travel magazine, in cooperation with KITICON Global Networks from Bonn, a marketing agency with in-depth expertise in tourism marketing. The event is supported by renowned partners such as Swan Hellenic, HanseMerkur, Visit Monaco, La mer Cosmetics, Regent Seven Sea Cruises and TEFRA Luggage Service.

Honoring visionary concepts and innovative approaches
‍
The Inspire Me Award recognizes companies and personalities who are shaping luxury tourism with tailor-made, unforgettable and high-quality concepts. It honors innovative ideas and sustainable concepts in the following six categories: “Goosebumps Destination of the Year”, “Newcomer Product of the Year”, “Top B2B Support of the Year”, “Rising Star of the Year”, “Top Luxury Agent of the Year” and “Ambassador of the Year”. Tina Kirfel, Managing Director of KITICON GmbH & Co. KG and co-initiator of the award, explains: “Selling luxury travel requires more than an exclusive offer - it needs a well thought-out marketing strategy and the sensitivity to understand customer expectations. Luxury today not only means exclusivity, but also authenticity, innovation and the creation of unforgettable experiences."

‍Award ceremony with a unique ambience‍
‍
The festive award ceremony at The Fontenay Hamburg is an exclusive event that not only includes the award presentation, but also offers a high-profile networking meeting. Luxury travel experts, leading industry figures and sponsors from the high-end segment come together to discuss the latest developments and challenges in luxury tourism and provide innovative impulses. In addition to honoring the winners, guests can expect a varied program with keynote speeches, inspiring discussions with industry experts and culinary delights. “It's not just about prizes - it's about sharing visions, exchanging ideas and gaining new perspectives,” emphasizes Iris M. Köpke, co-initiator of the award and publisher of media partner Luxusinsider.

‍High-caliber jury and strong partners‍
‍
The independent jury of the Inspire Me Award brings together renowned experts from the luxury and tourism industry, who contribute to the selection of the winners with their sense for exceptional concepts. But strong partners equally contribute to the excellence of the award: The shipping company Swan Hellenic, known for its cultural expedition cruises, Visit Monaco, which stands for exclusive tourism, and HanseMerkur, one of Germany's leading travel insurers. The partner network is complemented by La mer Cosmetics, a specialist in high-quality marine cosmetics, Regent Seven Seas Cruises, a provider of luxury all-inclusive cruises, the TEFRA luggage service, which enables comfortable travel, and the Hamburg luxury hotel The Fontenay. Melanie Haaß, co-organizer of the award, emphasizes: “Thanks to the expertise of our jury and the support of our partners, we can award concepts that offer real added value for the industry.”

Exclusive partnership opportunities
‍
The Inspire Me Award offers companies from the luxury sector the opportunity to present themselves as partners or sponsors in an exclusive environment. Interested companies can contact Tina Kirfel by email at  tk@kiticon.global to find out more about participation opportunities.You can find more information about the Inspire Me Award at: https://www.inspire-me-award.com/

As a partner of ConneXion Night, which celebrated its premiere at the Berlin International Tourism Exchange (ITB) this year, KITICON supports the promotion of young talent in the tourism industry. The network meeting organized by the Federal Association of the German Tourism Industry (BTW) and the conneccted: agency was aimed specifically at young and aspiring tourism professionals — and was more popular than initially expected. While only 250 guests were originally planned, around 300 tourism professionals eventually gathered at Berlin's Club Maaya.

The event not only offered an opportunity to support young talents starting out in the industry and provide them an opportunity to network with their peers. The organizers also had the opportunity to get to know the next generation and discover potential talents. The focus was on positioning the tourism industry as an attractive employer and “people business” that combines diverse career opportunities with an exciting and dynamic working atmosphere. ITB Director Deborah Rothe also emphasized this: “The tourism industry is not just work, but also a lot of fun. ”

“We are delighted to be one of the first partners to take part in ConneXion Night,” comments Tina Kirfel, Managing Director of KITICON GmbH & Co. KG. “As a marketing agency, we know exactly how important it is to attract young talent to the industry. Above all, because the younger generation is very different to previous generations when it comes to getting people excited about a job. Traditional career sites are no longer sufficient - social recruiting in particular plays a key role. We are already successfully supporting our customers in this area, and the positive response confirms our approach."

The up-and-coming talents were particularly enthusiastic about the various “Connexion Areas”, which offered unique networking opportunities with an exciting twist. From casual get-togethers to getting to know each other at speed dating and competitions, there was something for everyone. The lounge corner, a video booth and a telephone disco in an old telephone booth also contributed to making the evening a complete success. The event was accompanied by a DJ throughout, which also impressed the young people across the board.

In addition to KITICON Global Networks, other partners also supported the event. These included AIDA, DerTour, Hanse Merkur, Stylink, Worldia and many other exciting companies in and outside the tourism sector.

BTW President Sören Hartmann emphasizes: “We are immensely pleased with the great response from young and, in some cases, aspiring tourism professionals. Our joint idea of closing a content gap in the colorful calendar of events surrounding the world's largest tourism trade fair by specifically addressing young talent has been a complete success.” Christiane Bläser and Constanze Maltzahn, the two managing directors of the organizing agency conneccted:, were also satisfied with the event — ConneXion Night 2026 is already being planned.

The marketing agency KITICON GmbH & Co. KG and acvis GmbH have started working together to further strengthen Travcom24 as one of the most innovative content management systems (CMS) for travel agencies and tour operators. KITICON supports acvis with 1st-level support, targeted press and marketing work, and the development of a comprehensive training and information concept for the customizable complete solution.

Travcom24, developed by acvis GmbH, is a CMS specially designed for the travel industry that sets new standards in its category. It enables travel agencies and tour operators to create individual sales websites with just a few clicks. The system offers interfaces to common booking platforms as well as expansion options such as a live chat, integrated offer functions, price alerts, a list of favorites and dynamic travel advice. In addition, Travcom24 already enables the creation of websites that meet the requirements of the German Accessibility Improvement Act and thus offers a future-proof solution for barrier-free digital offers. Already successfully in use on numerous websites, the system has proven itself in practice and impresses with its performance and flexibility, including at the tour operators Coral Travel, the luxury travel sales portal Just Travel, the special organizer Golfreisen.com and the TUI Travel Star Travel Center Stuttgart.

“We help travel companies in seamlessly integrating Travcom24 into their processes — from the initial consultation to ongoing use,” explains Ilka Wymar, Commercial Director at KITICON. “Our expertise in support and marketing helps customers to optimize their online presence and make booking processes more efficient. ”

Christian Helbling, CEO of acvis GmbH, adds: “By working with KITICON, we offer our customers an even more comprehensive service. The combination of technological innovation and professional customer support makes Travcom24 one of the most powerful solutions for the travel industry. ”

Thanks to its modular design, Travcom24 adapts flexibly to the growing requirements of the industry. In addition, the intuitive modular system enables quick and easy adaptation to individual requirements without in-depth technical knowledge. Together, KITICON and acvis plan to further develop the system and support even more companies in their digital transformation. Many other innovations that will take daily travel sales to a new level are already planned — among other things, KITICON will soon be launching a series of webinars on this topic. Interested parties can find out more about Travcom24 in a non-binding initial consultation with Wymar [book an appointment HERE].

‍

TEFRA Luggage Service is now cooperating with the travel agency cooperation BEST-REISEN. The framework agreement includes attractive commissions for the sales outlets as well as an extended service for the convenient transportation of their customers' luggage.

‍

‍

TEFRA is celebrating its 20th anniversary this year with the slogan “Luggage - we've already left it at home”. The leading specialist for the transportation of luggage collects all suitcases, bags or special luggage directly from home and delivers them quickly and safely to the vacation destination, the desired hotel or vacation home, airports or cruise ships. As part of the cooperation, the Hamburg-based service provider is offering BEST-REISEN travel agencies the opportunity to offer their customers this additional service.

“We attach great importance to service and constantly offer our travel agencies opportunities to develop further. We are therefore delighted to have gained another partner in TEFRA to enhance the service in our offices,” explains Frank Winkler, Chief Officer Finance & IT at BEST-REISEN.

With more than 660 travel agencies, the BEST-REISEN travel agency cooperation not only benefits from the opportunity to offer customers an attractive additional service, but also from attractive commissions on sales. Bookings can be managed easily and intuitively via the dashboard specifically developed for sales.

“We are convinced that good service in travel agencies will always offer significant added value. We are therefore delighted that BEST-REISEN has recognized the added value as well, and that we were able to convince the association of our high quality luggage service,” adds Carsten Leder, Managing Director of TEFRA Travel Logistics GmbH.

(Bonn, 13.01.2025) KITICON Global Networks, the international marketing agency based in Bonn that specializes in tourism, has recruited experienced industry expert Ilka Wymar as Commercial Director. The tourism expert contributes around 30 years of professional experience in digital travel sales and e-commerce. From now on, she will play a key role in shaping the strategic growth and market presence of the agency and its clients.

With her technical understanding and solution-oriented way of thinking, Wymar will accompany the digital transformation for the agency's tourism clients. Her expertise is required in topics such as booking technologies, user experience & conversion optimization, as well as transition to accessible websites. In addition, her extensive experience in marketing and online sales will further strengthen KITICON Global Networks' offering.

“We are delighted to welcome Ilka Wymar to our team as an experienced tourism expert and at the same time as a creative and open personality. With her experience, KITICON can significantly expand its portfolio once again” says Managing Director Tina Kirfel. “Thanks to her extensive industry contacts and her e-commerce expertise, she bridges the gap between sales and technology - a win-win situation both for our team and our customers.”

Ilka Wymar has extensive experience in the industry. She began her career as a travel agent, after which she worked in online sales and travel consulting. One of her stations was the online portal ebookers.com, where she gained extensive knowledge in marketing, sales, interface management and booking systems over ten years as Head of Product and Content Management DACH. From 2012 to 2021, she supported small and medium-sized companies and travel agencies as an independent consultant in the digitalization and development of new marketing and sales concepts. She also worked at AMONDO for around 9 years as an e-commerce manager and sales manager. Kirfel and Wymar both have many years of expertise in the cruise market and have already worked closely together in recent months on the development of a cruise portal.

“I'm looking forward to bringing my expertise to KITICON and rounding off the agency's portfolio. With my passion for UX, booking technologies and data quality, we can open up new perspectives for our clients and shape the digital transformation together.”

(Darmstadt, 01.10.2024) From September 15 to 22, 2024, a group of ten selected sales partners from Germany, Austria and Switzerland were invited by Royal Caribbean International, Executive Cruises (PSR of the shipping company for the DACH market) and flight partner Condor to experience the impressive offer on board the Allure of the Seas. In addition to product training sessions, discussion rounds and activities on board, the “Perfect Day at CocoCay” on Royal Caribbean's private island was also an integral part of the program.

Alexandra Gärtner, RTK Area Manager, is impressed by CocoCay: “The Caribbean island offers a perfect mix of relaxation and action for all guests, regardless of age. I was particularly impressed with the service in all areas of the island - the staff was incredibly attentive, friendly and always keen to provide guests with a first-class experience!”

“Allure of the Seas fascinated me with its diverse offerings — from the gastronomy and shows to the numerous leisure activities on board,” says Jens Scheidereiter, Managing Director of Select Holidays. “I tried out the FlowRider surf simulator myself and I'm delighted that the modernized Allure of the Seas is set to sail the Mediterranean in 2025.”

On board, the participants experienced the shipping company's spectacular entertainment program and were also able to sample the culinary diversity. At the end of the trip, the group was able to marvel at the largest cruise ship in the world, the Icon of the Seas, and take their first impressions home with them. The trip was accompanied by Arik Vollmer (Country Manager of the DACH market of Executive Cruises), David Hearn (Senior Key Account Manager North Europe) and David Fernández-Müller (Key Account Manager of Royal Caribbean International), as well as Janik Vogel from the marketing agency KITICON Global Networks. André Horn, Head of Sales at Condor, was also on site.

For Country Manager Arik Vollmer, the trip to the USA and Caribbean was a complete success: “We were able to introduce our product to our sales partners on the trip and convince them of the uniqueness of the concept.”

(Stolberg, 25.07.2024) Die milzer GmbH, unter der Leitung von Geschäftsführer Simon Milz und Vertriebschef Michael Eberlei, verfügt über umfassendes Branchenwissen und langjährige Erfahrung im Bereich Reiseveranstaltungen und der Software, die in diesem Sektor zum Einsatz kommt. Das erfahrene Team hilft seinen Kunden in der DACH-Region, die besten Softwarelösungen zu identifizieren, einzuführen und ganz wichtig: aufeinander abzustimmen, um so bestehende Geschäftsprozesse zu optimieren. Wenn die Ziele der Kunden nicht mit der bestehenden Software zu erreichen sind, erarbeiten Simon Milz und sein Team eine individuell angepasste Prozesslandschaft, die auf die spezifischen Bedürfnisse und Wünsche der Kunden zugeschnitten ist.

Der Kunde steht im Fokus

„Unser Ziel ist es, innovative Lösungen anzubieten und sicherzustellen, dass unsere Kunden in der Lage sind, ihr volles Potenzial auszuschöpfen“, sagt Simon Milz. “Um dies zu erreichen, lernen wir unsere Kunden im ersten Schritt kennen, damit wir deren interne Prozesse auch verstehen können. Gemeinsam erarbeiten wir dann, wo die USPs und der Fokus des Reiseveranstalters liegen – denn nur so können wir die Systeme auch optimal ausrichten. Es geht uns also nicht nur um die Technik, sondern vor allem darum, den Kunden nach vorne zu bringen und die Mitarbeiter durch automatisierte Prozesse zu entlasten. Durch die optimierten Geschäftsprozesse lässt sich der Erfolg des Unternehmens nachhaltig steigern.”

Eine Entlastung der Mitarbeiter wird von der milzer GmbH oft durch eine Schnittstellenintegration realisiert. Dadurch kann beispielsweise die Übertragung von Buchungsdaten automatisch erfolgen. Das optimiert und beschleunigt den Buchungsprozess, spart Zeit und ist letzten Endes auch weniger Fehleranfällig.

Wenn möglich, werden bestehende Systeme erhalten und so optimiert, dass sie ineinander greifen. Es soll schließlich darum gehen, den Arbeitsalltag zu vereinfachen und zu beschleunigen, damit dem Reiseveranstalter mehr Zeit für andere Aufgaben bleibt, die nicht von einem Computer geleistet werden können. Falls die Ziele eines Unternehmens mal nicht mit bestehender Software zu erreichen sind, werden die passenden Systeme von Milz und seinem Team recherchiert, analysiert und in Absprache mit dem Kunden integriert.

Mit den individuell zugeschnittenen Prozessen und dem optimierten Datenmanagement schafft die milzer GmbH effiziente Produkte, die Veranstaltern mit komplexen Produkten und hohem manuellen Aufwand zu mehr Effizienz und höherer Umsatzrendite und dadurch verbesserter Wettbewerbsfähigkeit verhelfen. Dabei setzen Milz und sein Team auf eine konsequente Begleitung ihrer Kunden und bieten auch etablierte Lösungen an, die besonders günstig im Betrieb und bei der Wartung sind.

Bei Interesse an der milzer GmbH und deren Software-Lösungen für Reiseveranstalter kann ein kostenloses Erstgespräch gebucht werden.

Die milzer GmbH ist ein führender Anbieter von individualisierten Softwarelösungen für Reiseveranstalter. Das Unternehmen bietet eine breite Palette von Dienstleistungen und Produkten für die passgenaue Optimierung von Arbeitsprozessen. Der Experte für Veranstalter-, Backoffice- und CRM-Systeme verhilft seinen Kunden durch die Optimierung von Geschäftsprozessen zu einem besseren Online-Auftritt, automatisierten Abläufen, effizienten Prozessen in der Kundenkommunikation, der Datensicherung und letztendlich zu mehr Erfolg.

‍

(Guernsey, 01.07.2024) Contiki Tours, the tour operator for young adults, has brought solamento Reisen GmbH with its mobile travel consultants and the Travel Boutique in Essen on board as a Germany-wide sales partner. From now on, solamento's travel consultants will serve as a contact point throughout Germany for people aged 18 to 35 who are interested in social travel.

Adam Armstrong, CEO of Contiki Holidays, states: “With solamento Reisen, we have found a distribution partner that suits us - dynamic, authentic, flexible and experienced. The Contiki team is looking forward to working together.“

Kelly Jackson, Managing Director EMEA, adds: “We have big plans for 2024 and are looking forward to realizing them together with KITICON Global Networks, Tina Kirfel's agency, which is responsible for our German-speaking sales and marketing activities.”

The owner and Managing Director of solamento Reisen GmbH, Sascha Nitsche, is also positive: “Contiki Holidays is an exciting product and exactly what our travel consultants need. An international company with young guests from all over the world. We are very much looking forward to inspiring a young target group with Contiki's products.”
‍
The solamento travel consultants will be trained with immediate effect and extensive sales and marketing measures are currently being implemented.

(Darmstadt/Bonn, 29.05.2024) Royal Caribbean gives around 400 agents from all over Europe comprehensive insights into the brand during a Mediterranean cruise on the Oasis of the Seas. The aim of the Seminar@Sea is to provide agencies and agents with comprehensive information about the Royal Caribbean brand and also to give them an on-site experience on one of the ships to get to know the product better.

From 05.05.2024 to 09.05.2024, Oasis of the Seas sailed to the ports of Barcelona, Palma de Mallorca, Marseille, La Spezia and Civitavecchia. During this cruise, the German-language part of the Seminar@Sea was conducted on the ship by David Fernandez-Müller, Key Account Manager at Royal Caribbean and accompanied by Alexander Pelz, Business Development Manager - North of Executive Cruises.

The approximately 400 participants, around 40 of whom belonged to German partner agencies, had a varied program on this training trip to the Mediterranean. The following points were on the agenda of the Seminar@Sea:

• The brand Royal Caribbean
• Getting to know the ship classes and their special features
• In which destinations Royal Caribbean can be found and which routes are offered
• Range of cabins and suites
• Food & drink (Windjammer & Main Dining and the specialty restaurants)
• Entertainment on board
• Children's and youth activities on board (Royal Babies & Royal Tots and Adventure Ocean)

Parts of the EMEA team as well as the captain and the hotel director were on hand to answer the participants' questions in a Q&A session in the Royal Theater and responded to the expedition participants' questions in detail. There were also two cocktail evenings, which offered all participants a good opportunity to network.

Alexander Pelz found the entire event extremely positive and rewarding: “All participants were very excited about the seminar and the Oasis of the Seas. There was a great thirst for knowledge, as none of them had ever been on board a Royal Fleet ship before. The almost 400 travel agents from the various national markets practically soaked up the information. I would like to thank the Royal Caribbean EMEA team for the great organization of the event, which was well received by all participants and will be remembered very positively.”

(Hamburg, 20.02.2024) The TEFRA luggage service now offers sales partners the option of a free affiliate link. With this, TEFRA can be personalized on any website with its own logo and individual text.

“By integrating the company's own logo, we can now personalize the TEFRA booking route for our sales partners and ensure a better user experience at the same time. The implementation is very simple: sales partners who are interested in the free service simply send their logo as a vector file (SVG file in landscape or square format) and TEFRA takes care of the rest,” explains André Schoop, head of TEFRA Luggage Service.

Contact person for the free affiliate link or for any question:

André Schoop, Head of TEFRA Luggage Service
Tel: +49 40 5936 256 20
agentur@tefra-gepäckservice.de

This does not change the contractually agreed commission. The linked company logo solely optimizes the booking process and ensures an individualized presentation tailored to the respective sales partner.

(Hamburg, 24.01.2024) TEFRA Luggage Service and Lufthansa City Center are cooperating with immediate effect. Customers now have access to an extended service for the convenient transportation of their luggage while the sales outlets will receive attractive commissions.

“Luggage - we've already dropped it off at home” - this is the slogan of TEFRA Travel Logistics from Hamburg. Already successful on the market for 25 years, the service provider offers travel retailers the opportunity to offer their customers an additional service and thus further strengthen customer loyalty. The leading specialist for the transportation of vacation luggage picks up all suitcases, bags and sports luggage directly at home and brings them safely and quickly to the vacation destination, to the desired hotel or vacation home, to airports or to the cruise ship.

An additional incentive for the 280 Lufthansa City Center travel agencies: Each booking is rewarded with an adequate commission and the agencies thus benefit both from the opportunity to offer their customers an attractive service and from the additional commission.

The process is simple and intuitive: travel agencies can log in to the dashboard specially developed for sales and manage bookings for their customers. They can also access a closed TEFRA Facebook Group to receive the latest information on baggage services.

(Hamburg, 09.10.2023) TEFRA Luggage Service is now providing all sales partners with a new interface for their booking process. This means that all orders are now automatically transmitted to the Hamburg-based company. The interface enables users to call up the desired services: Pick-up and delivery by the luggage service are checked by zip code. As a result, customers are only presented with times that are actually available in real time and the order is then transferred to TEFRA easily and without any additional effort.

However, the new interface not only transports all essential booking information, but also provides sales partners with a fully integrated method of seamlessly integrating the booking for the end customer into their own booking software or standard mid-office systems. This means that the luggage service can be offered and booked directly on your own website.

The TEFRA luggage service product portfolio includes the door-to-door service, the door-to-ship service and the door-to-airport service. A REST API is used to query delivery times and transfer orders.

“Our aim when developing the interface was to make the processes as smooth as possible. We are delighted that this is now possible and that the TEFRA luggage service can now also be integrated into existing software solutions,” explains Carsten Leder, Managing Director of TEFRA Travel Logistics GmbH.

Interested parties can contact Mr. Stefan Grebenstein by email or phone at info@mpcnet.de or 07154-1786-10 if they have any questions.

(Köln, 26.09.2023) Der Betreiber der paxlounge bindet einen weiteren Partner für den Reisevertrieb an sein System an. Ab sofort können Reiseberater:innen die Angebote aller führenden Veranstalter über das Preisvergleichssystem Peakwork SET schnell und bequem durchsuchen – egal ob es um Pauschalreisen, Hotels oder Flüge geht. Alle vorgeschlagenen Reiseangebote lassen sich ganz einfach per Mausklick in die paxlounge übertragen.

Peakwork SET bietet dabei einen neuen Beratungsansatz, mit dem Expedient:innen gut vorbereitet in jede Beratung starten und gezielt auf die Wünsche ihrer Kund:innen eingehen können. Der Ansatz baut auf dem Konzept selbst definierter Hotel-Sets mit der Möglichkeit zur individuellen Abspeicherung auf. Durch die Auswahl können Berater:innen bereits vorab die Vorlieben bestimmter Kundenzielgruppen berücksichtigen und auch bei zukünftigen Beratungen auf ein eigens definiertes Hotel-Set zurückgreifen. Auch das Teilen unter Reisebürokolleg:innen ist möglich.

Britta Evensen, Manager Travel Agency Solutions bei Peakwork, sagt: „Uns ist es wichtig, mit Peakwork SET einen Angebotsvergleich an den Start zu bringen, der Expedient:innen optimal im Beratungsprozess unterstützt. Die Anbindung an paxconnect und die paxlounge als führendes System im Reisebüro ist daher die logische Konsequenz. Wir freuen uns sehr über die neue Schnittstelle und die gute Zusammenarbeit.“

Weitere Vorteile der Software sind die Multiroom-Suche mit individuellen Zimmer- und Verpflegungsoptionen sowie der webbasierte Zugriff und die direkte Anzeige des Gesamtpreises. Außerdem kann direkt nach DRV GlobalTypes gesucht werden und die Darstellung der Alternativangebote ermöglicht eine besonders hohe Transparenz unter allen Veranstaltern. Neu ist auch, dass mit Peakwork SET mehrere Angebote gleichzeitig auf Verfügbarkeit geprüft und in die paxlounge übertragen werden können.

„Wir freuen uns, dass wir mit der Anbindung von Peakwork SET eine besonders flexible Software in die paxlounge integrieren können, die den Reiseberater:innen die Zusammenstellung von passenden Angeboten deutlich erleichtert.”, erklärt Hakan Duganci, Vertriebsleiter der paxconnect GmbH. „Durch die fortgeschrittene Technik wird der Vertrieb von Urlaubsreisen nicht nur moderner, sondern auch um einiges schneller.”

Die Peakwork AG wurde 2009 gegründet und ist ein Software-Spezialist für die Reiseindustrie. Mit der weltweit einzigartigen Player Hub Technologie® hat Peakwork ein dynamisches Produktions- und Vertriebsnetzwerk für die Touristik geschaffen, welches das globale Angebot mit der Nachfrage verbindet. Basierend auf der Player Hub Technologie entwickelt das Unternehmen verschiedene innovative Lösungen für das touristische Geschäft.

paxconnect stellt die Anbindung von “Peakwork SET” online am 04.10.2023 um 13.00 Uhr vor. Reiseberater:innen, die gerne teilnehmen möchten, können sich hier registrieren.

(Köln, 21.08.2023) Die paxconnect GmbH hat einen bedeutenden Schritt in der kontinuierlichen Weiterentwicklung ihres Angebots gemacht. Dank der Anbindung der Veranstaltermarken SunTrips und LMX Individuell wird erstmals die bislang fehlende Reiseart der Individualreisen in der paxlounge abgedeckt.

Reiseberater:innen haben nun die Möglichkeit, maßgeschneiderte Reiseangebote der beiden LMX Marken aus verschiedenen Reisebausteinen zusammenzusetzen und über die paxlounge ihren Kund:innen in Echtzeit zur Verfügung zu stellen.

„Mit der Anbindung von SunTrips und LMX Individuell haben wir einen wichtigen Meilenstein in der paxlounge erreicht, um den Reiseberater:innen die Arbeit bei maßgeschneiderten Reisen zu erleichtern,” erklärt Hakan Duganci, Vertriebsleiter der paxconnect GmbH. „Mit der zukunftsorientierten Technologie des TripDesigners können in wenigen Schritten komplexe Individualreisen zusammengestellt werden – von Unterkünften und Aktivitäten bis hin zu Transfers und mehr.”

Der Veranstalter LMX Individuell bietet seit April 2018 ein dynamisches Programm zur flexiblen, individuellen Zusammenstellung sowie Buchung von Reisebausteinen weltweit. SunTrips ist seit November 2016 eine Marke der LMX Touristik GmbH und bietet als Spezialveranstalter Fernreisen sowie individuelle Rund- und Kombinationsreisen nach Mittelamerika & Karibik, Südamerika, Australien/ Ozeanien, Indien und Indischer Ozean, Afrika, Ostasien und Südostasien an.

paxconnect stellt die Anbindung von „LMX TripDesigner & SunTrips” online am 28.08.2023 um 13.00 Uhr vor. Reiseberater:innen, die gerne teilnehmen möchten, können sich hier registrieren.

(Genf/Bonn, 10.07.2023) Contiki erweitert als Reiseveranstalter und Teil der The Travel Corporation (TTC) Markenfamilie den touristischen Markt in Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz. Das Unternehmen mit Spezialisierung auf Reisen für junge Erwachsene und Sitz auf der Kanalinsel Guernsey hat jetzt die Agentur KITICON Global Networks aus Bonn mit Marketing und Kommunikation für die deutschsprachigen Märkte beauftragt.

Die Marke „Contiki“ bündelt authentischen, stressfreien Urlaub; einzigartige Reiseerlebnisse und Fachkenntnisse über lokale Highlights der besuchten Destinationen. Mit dem Ziel junge Reisende aus allen Ecken der Welt zusammenzubringen, hat sich Contiki darauf spezialisiert, besonders 18- bis 35-Jährigen einen Urlaub zu ermöglichen, in dem sie sich sicher und in bester Gesellschaft wissen. Egal ob Alleinreisende, Student:innen, Young Professionals, Freundesgruppen oder Paare – bei Contiki findet jeder seinen Platz. Das Angebot des Reiseveranstalters umfasst mehr als 350 Reisen weltweit, die Koordination von Transport und Unterkünften sowie die Begleitung von fachkundigen Reisemanager:innen und örtlichen Reiseleiter:innen.

„Ich freue mich sehr über die Zusammenarbeit mit KITICON und darauf, gemeinsam das weltweit führende Unternehmen für Jugendreisen in Deutschland, Österreich und in die Schweiz bekannter zu machen.” kommentiert Adam Armstrong, CEO von Contiki Holidays.

„Contiki bereichert den deutschsprachigen Markt mit seinem Angebot und definiert die Vorstellung von Gruppenreisen für junge Reisende ganz neu. Wir bringen 18- bis 35-jährige Reisende aus allen Teilen der Welt zusammen, um neue Kulturen und ein Stück von sich selbst auf dem Weg zu entdecken. “, kommentiert Tina Kirfel, Geschäftsführerin KITICON Global Networks. „Wir freuen uns sehr darauf, das Unternehmen auch in den DACH-Märkten bekannter zu machen.“

Interessent:innen wenden sich für Anfragen an die Bonner Agentur, oder buchen direkt über die Website unter www.contiki.com

(Köln, 05.07.2023) Der Betreiber der paxlounge erweitert sein System um einen weiteren Partner für die Reisebüros. Ab sofort findet sich in der beliebten Beratungssoftware der Kölner eine breite Auswahl an Ausflugsprogrammen des Spezialisten „Meine Landausflüge” zu sämtlichen Routen der meisten Kreuzfahrtreedereien mit einem attraktiven Provisionsmodell.

Bei Buchung über „Meine Landausflüge” erhalten Kund:innen exklusive Vorteile: familiäre Gruppen, Hygiene- und Sicherheitsstandards, „Pünktlich-zurück-zum-Schiff”-Garantie, attraktive Preise, Abholung am Hafen, „Geld-zurück”-Garantie und kostenlose Stornierung. Außerdem eine Flex-Option bis 60 Min. vor Ausflugsbeginn, einen inkludierten ERGO-Versicherungsschutz sowie individuelle Privat- und Gruppenausflüge.

Hakan Duganci, Vertriebsleiter der paxconnect GmbH, freut sich über den Neuzugang: „Mit der Anbindung von „Meine Landausflüge“ gewinnen wir einen starken Partner, der neben unseren bisherigen Systempartnern GetYourGuide und TUI Experiences, das Angebot im Bereich „Aktivitäten” um das Angebot von Kreuzfahrtausflügen erweitert. Insgesamt haben wir jetzt schon mehr als 85 Systempartner in der paxlounge angebunden.”

Dr. Florian Berthold, Geschäftsführer von „Meine Landausflüge“ zeigt sich ebenfalls zufrieden mit der Kooperation: „Wir freuen uns sehr, nun auch über die paxlounge buchbar und damit Bestandteil der führenden Plattform für den Reisevertrieb zu sein. Gerade für unsere stationären Partner:innen schaffen wir damit eine deutliche Erleichterung in der Arbeit am Counter und erreichen auf diesem Weg ganz neue Kundengruppen.”

paxconnect stellt die Anbindung von „Meine Landausflüge“ online am 19.07.2023 um 13:00 Uhr vor. Reiseberater:innen, die gerne daran teilnehmen möchten, können sich hier kostenfrei anmelden.

Aktiviert werden kann die Schnittstelle durch die Eingabe der Agenturnummer. Infos und Videoanleitungen können Interessent:innen in den Systemanschlüssen ihrer paxlounge finden. Alle Reiseberater:innen, die noch keine „Meine Landausflüge“-Agentur sind, können sich hier registrieren.

Über „Meine Landausflüge”:
„Meine Landausflüge“, ein Unternehmen der TripUp GmbH, ist eine unabhängige Buchungsplattform für Kreuzfahrt-Ausflüge. Das Portal kooperiert auf der Ausflugsseite mit lokalen Tour-Agenturen. Die Ausflüge können vom Kunden direkt über die Webseite gebucht werden. Das Angebot von „Meine Landausflüge“ umfasst handverlesene Ausflüge in zahlreichen Kreuzfahrthäfen der Welt und wird stetig erweitert. Auf der Vertriebsseite arbeitet das Unternehmen mit namhaften Reisebüros zusammen. Für das Unternehmen arbeitet ein motiviertes Team in Hamburg an dem gemeinsamen Ziel, der führende Anbieter für Kreuzfahrt-Ausflüge zu werden.

(Darmstadt, 22.05.2023) Ganz gleich, ob die Gäste ihre E-Mails checken, im Internet surfen oder sich mit Freund:innen und Familie zu Hause austauschen möchten – der Internetdienst VOOM® von Royal Caribbean International ermöglicht eine bis zu sechsmal schnellere Verbindung als andere Schiffe weltweit. Mit der Umstellung auf das Satelliteninternet Starlink von SpaceX hat das Kreuzfahrtunternehmen sein Angebot erneut gesteigert. Alle Reisenden können Zugang zu der Hochgeschwindigkeitsverbindung erhalten und so ein noch besseres digitales Erlebnis an Bord genießen.

Vertriebspartner:innen von Executive Cruises bestätigen, dass ihre Gäste sehr zufrieden waren. Neben der außergewöhnlichen Schnelligkeit bemerken sie auch eine erschwinglichere Preisgestaltung. Das liegt daran, dass zuvor getrennte Pakete nun in Kombination angeboten werden. Dies macht die Kreuzfahrten ideal für alle Kund:innen, die gerne streamen, vernetzt bleiben oder remote arbeiten möchten.

„Früher gehörten langsames Internet und Verbindungsprobleme an Bord zur Tagesordnung. Dass Royal Caribbean eine moderne Lösung für dieses Problem bietet, ist für alle Vertriebspartner:innen eine großartige Verbesserung”, erklärt Arik Vollmer, Country Manager, Executive Cruises DACH.

Mehr Informationen und die Möglichkeit zur Agentur-Registrierung finden Interessent:innen auf der Website. Das Executive Cruises DACH-Serviceteam ist außerdem erreichbar unter booking.rci@executivecruises.eu oder telefonisch unter DE (+49) 3221 2249 097, AT (+43) 720 116 354 und CH (+41) 800 896 706.

(Bremen, 23.03.2023) Ab 01.05.2023 wird Reinhard Kotzaurek touristischer Geschäftsführer des Bremer Kreuzfahrt-Vermarkters. Er ist bereits in verschiedenen Führungspositionen u.a. als CEO von Thomas Cook Austria und als Geschäftsführer der alltours Reisecenter tätig gewesen. Internationale Erfahrung sammelte Kotzaurek bei STA Travel in London. Jetzt soll er den Bremer Kreuzfahrtvermarkter und Spezialveranstalter in die Zukunft führen.

Hanseat Reisen ist seit 25 Jahren Marktführer in der Vermarktung von Gruppen- und Leserreisen und Partner von den meisten Verlagen in Deutschland. Seit 2019 gehört Hanseat Reisen zur Travel & Cruises Company Holding, zu der auch der TOP Kreuzfahrtvermarkter urlaubsexperte.de GmbH & Co. KG gehört, dessen Gründer Oliver Wulf heute Gesellschafter der TCC und Geschäftsführer aller 3 Gesellschaften ist. Seit der Gründung der Holding in 2019 stärken beide Unternehmen nicht nur ihre Marktpositionen, sondern haben die Basis für eine langfristig angelegte Wachstumsstory im Kreuzfahrtsegment geschaffen.

“Wir sind sehr stolz, mit Reinhard Kotzaurek einen so erfahrenen Manager nach Bremen zu holen”, so Oliver Wulf, Gesellschafter der Travel & Cruises Company und Geschäftsführer aller 3 Gesellschaften.

“Ich freue mich auf alle Mitarbeitenden bei Hanseat Reisen und bin davon überzeugt, dass wir zusammen ein starkes Team mit viel Erfahrung sein werden, dass gemeinsam in eine neue, digitale Zukunft startet”, ergänzt Reinhard Kotzaurek

Für Hanseat Reisen ist die Neubesetzung der Geschäftsführerposition ein wichtiger Schritt in die Zukunft. Es gilt neue Geschäftsfelder zu entwickeln und das Kerngeschäft, gemeinsam mit den Verlagen, weiterzuentwickeln

(Bremen/Düsseldorf, 14.03.2023) Vom 10. bis 12. März 2023 ,  drei Jahre nach dem Zusammenschluss  der Firmen unter der Holding Travel & Cruises Company GmbH (TCC), war es soweit und fast alle 140 Kolleginnen und Kollegen beider Unternehmen konnten sich bei einem gemeinsamen Event endlich besser kennenlernen. An Bord der MS Geoffrey Chaucer von Scylla wurde allen Mitarbeitenden die Strategie und bevorstehende Projekte der TCC präsentiert.

Hierzu hatten sich Oliver Wulf (Geschäftsführer von urlaubsexperte.de und DRV Vorstand) sowie Andreas Kirst (Geschäftsführer der Hanseat Reisen GmbH) viel Zeit genommen, um alle Fragen ihrer Mitarbeitenden zu beantworten.

Die Travel & Cruises Company GmbH ist eine Holding mit Sitz in Bremen. Die TCC bündelt touristisches Know How, schafft Synergien und entwickelt neue Geschäftsfelder. Aktuell gehören zur TCC zwei eigenständig agierende Unternehmen, Hanseat Reisen und urlaubsexperte.de. Die Strategie ist auf Wachstum und Erweiterung des Portfolios ausgelegt. Hierzu werden sich mittelfristig weitere Unternehmen an die TCC angliedern. Zudem arbeitet die TCC an einem neuen, großen Kreuzfahrtprojekt, das in Kürze dem Markt vorgestellt wird. Die Mitarbeitenden nahmen den ersten Einblick in das neue Projekt mit Begeisterung auf.

Die Reise ging ab/bis Köln auf der romantischen Rheinstrecke über Koblenz zur Loreley. Bei strahlendem Wetter und bester Laune freuten sich alle über die gemeinsame Ausrichtung der Unternehmen.

Mit an Bord als Partner der beiden Unternehmen waren die Hanse Merkur Reiseversicherung und Costa Kreuzfahrten sowie die Bonner Agentur KITICON Global Networks, die für die TCC und ihre Unternehmen neue Kommunikations- und Marketingkonzepte entwickelt.

„Wir sind sehr glücklich, endlich gemeinsam mit all unseren Mitarbeitenden dieses Wochenende zu verbringen und alle Kolleginnen und Kollegen auf die gemeinsame Strategie einzuschwören.”, erklärt Oliver Wulf, Geschäftsführer von urlaubsexperte.de.

Andreas Kirst, Geschäftsführer von Hanseat Reisen ergänzt: „Alle Mitarbeitenden sind hochmotiviert und gestärkt von Bord gegangen. Das Wochenende war ein voller Erfolg.”

Weitere Informationen über die TCC, Hanseat Reisen und urlaubsexperte.de finden Interessenten auf den jeweiligen Websites.

(Darmstadt, 09.02.2023) Endlich ist es wieder soweit und die Internationale Tourismusbörse öffnet in Berlin nach einer langen Pause ihre Türen. Mit dabei und startbereit für die Messesaison ist die führende Kreuzfahrtgesellschaft Royal Caribbean International, gemeinsam mit dem für die DACH Märkte verantwortlichen PSR Executive Cruises. Das neu aufgestellte Executive Vertriebsteam freut sich zwischen dem 07.03. bis 09.03.2023 auf alle Vertriebspartner*innen für einen persönlichen Austausch rund um die Angebotsvielfalt der Reederei.

Antreffen können Interessierte, Arik Vollmer, Country Manager DACH und sein Team: Herrn Alexander Pelz, Business Development Manager Region Nord, Maria Andreas, Head of Business Development DACH in Halle 25, Stand Nr. 101. Neben den Ansprechpartnerinnen des Executive Cruises Vertriebsteams werden auch Kolleginnen von Royal Caribbean International sowie das Team der für das Marketing in DACH verantwortlichen Agentur KITICON Global Networks, vor Ort sein.

Das diesjährige Motto der ITB ist “Veränderung”. Die weltgrößte Reisemesse der Tourismus- und Reiseindustrie bietet somit wieder viele spannende und interessante Themen, die zeigen, wie sich die Reisebranche in den letzten Jahren gewandelt hat. Auch die Frage, inwiefern sich Reiseanbieter an diese Veränderungen anpassen und zusammen in Richtung Zukunft gehen, wird thematisiert.

Passend zu den Schwerpunkten Zukunft und Veränderung wird ein Ausblick auf das touristische Jahr 2023 mit Royal Caribbean gegeben, sowie die neu strukturierte Zusammenarbeit mit PSR Executive Cruises in DACH vorgestellt. Der persönliche Austausch soll zusätzlich jeden Abend durch ein Get-together inklusive Getränke und gute Gespräche mit den Branchenpartner*innen ermöglicht werden.

„Wir freuen uns sehr, dass der deutschsprachige Reisevertrieb die neue Struktur bereits so gut angenommen hat. Deswegen sind wir besonders gespannt darauf, nun in Berlin unsere Vertriebspartner*innen persönlich zu treffen.“, erklärt Arik Vollmer, Country Manager DACH, Executive Cruises DACH.

Mehr Informationen und die Möglichkeit zur Agentur-Registrierung finden Interessent:innen schon jetzt auf der Website. Terminbuchungen nimmt das Team gerne unter sales@royalcaribbeankreuzfahrten.com entgegen.

(Bonn, 18.01.2023) Die neue Vermittlermarke Seychellen Insider berät ab jetzt alle Reise-Interessierten und bietet individuell ausgearbeitete Reisen auf die traumhaften Inseln im Indischen Ozean an. Zu den Kernkompetenzen des Vermittlers gehören insbesondere ein erstklassiges Wissen über Land und Leute sowie eine profunde Beurteilung der Unterkünfte, die auf den Inseln zu finden sind.

Die umfassende Destinationserfahrung kommt von den Gründern des Anbieters, Nadine und Alexej Samoilow. Das Paar ist bereits seit 2016 begeistert von den Seychellen und besonders die Hauptinsel Mahé ist mittlerweile zu ihrem zweiten Zuhause geworden. Die Liebe zur Reiseplanung kommt bei beiden nicht von irgendwo, denn sie sind von Herzen gern Gastgeber und kennen sich in der Hotellerie und Gastronomie bestens aus. Gemeinsam führen sie zusätzlich das INSELHOTEL Bonn und blicken bereits auf 25 Jahre Erfahrung im Tourismus zurück.

Die perfekte Buchungsabwicklung ist durch die Zusammenarbeit mit der Traveltime GmbH aus Mönchengladbach gesichert. Die Teams der bekannten Lufthansa City Center Reisebüros von Silke Köhler und Christian Stattrop sind der operative Partner des neuen Seychellen Anbieters. Alle Traumreisen sind so durch das deutsche Reiserecht abgesichert.

„Wir freuen uns sehr, dass wir den neuen Anbieter für exklusive Reisen auf die Seychellen mit unserer Expertise und Kompetenz unterstützen dürfen.” erklärt Silke Köhler, Geschäftsführerin Traveltime GmbH Lufthansa City Center.

„Uns ist es wichtig, dass alle Reisen individuell und mit viel Liebe zum Detail zusammengestellt werden. Es gibt auf den Seychellen so viel zu entdecken. Wir freuen uns sehr, mit unserer Destinationskenntnis und der Liebe zu den Seychellen den perfekten Urlaub für unsere Kund:innen zusammenzustellen.", erklärt Alexej Samoilow. Nadine Samoilow ergänzt. „Wir nehmen uns viel Zeit für die Beratung unserer Kund:innen. Erst wenn wir 100% zufrieden sind, wird die Reise gebucht. Alle vor Ort freuen sich schon auf unsere Gäste.”

Für die Entwicklung der Marke, die weitere strategische Geschäftsentwicklung und die Kommunikation hat Seychellen Insider die Bonner Agentur KITICON Global Networks beauftragt.

Alle Interessent:innen können einen persönlichen Beratungstermin ganz einfach über die Website vereinbaren oder direkt über das eingebundene Formular ein Angebot anfragen. Die Seite überzeugt mit frischem Look und inspiriert sofort zur Reise ins Paradies. Wer sich vorab informieren möchte, kann hier erste Geheimtipps entdecken und sich Wissen über die Inseln aneignen. Zusätzliche Einblicke liefert Seychellen Insider auf Instagram und Facebook.

(Köln, 12.12.2022) Der bekannte und etablierte Hotelbetten-Datenbank Betreiber GO Global Travel stellt seinen Reisebüro-Partner*innen ab sofort eine Schnittstelle zur beliebten Liveberatungs-Software paxlounge zur Verfügung.

Hotelangebote lassen sich ab sofort mit einem Klick an paxlounge übertragen und in Echtzeit den Kundinnen am Counter oder online präsentieren. Aktuell setzen über 5.500 Reisebüros und OTA das Liveberatungs-Tool in den täglichen Beratungsprozessen ein – dies entspricht über 30.000 Nutzerinnen im DACH-Raum.

„Viele unserer Reisebüro-Agenturen haben sich eine Anbindung an die paxlounge gewünscht – dem Wunsch sind wir nun nachgekommen und freuen uns sehr auf eine tolle Zusammenarbeit mit unserem neuen Vertriebspartner“, so Vladimira Bodnarova, Country Managerin bei GO Global Travel, und fügt weiter hinzu „für unsere Reiseberater*innen bedeutet dies eine Automatisierung und Aufwertung ihrer Angebotspräsentation.“

Und auch Hakan Duganci, Vertriebsleiter der paxconnect GmbH, freut sich über den Neuzugang:„Unser Fokus ist der stationäre Reisevertrieb. Mit Go Global haben wir die erste B2B Hotelbetten-Datenbank an unsere paxlounge angebunden. Für uns ist dies eine sehr wichtige Bereicherung unseres Anbietersortiments.“

In einem gemeinsamen kostenfreien Vorstellungs-Webinar präsentieren Vladimira Bodnarova und Hakan Duganci die Neuigkeit allen Interessierten.
Die Online-Präsentation findet am 21.12.2022, um 13:00 Uhr statt.

Anmeldung zum Webinar unter:
https://www.paxconnect.de/…

(Hamburg, 30.11.2022) Für Buchungen ab dem 01. Januar 2023 vergütet TEFRA auch die Vermittlung des Gepäcktransports zum Kreuzfahrtschiff. Der bisher nicht verprovisionierte Service von zu Hause bis zur Kabinentür wird dabei ausschließlich bei einer Online-Buchung durch Reisebüros mit 7,5 Prozent Provision honoriert.

Die Leistung des Hamburger Gepäckservices kann für die Hin- und Rückreise zum Kreuzfahrtschiff von allen deutschen sowie zu den von TEFRA bedienten EU-Häfen genutzt werden. Die Buchung sollte dabei bis vier Arbeitstage vor Reiseantritt bei deutschen Häfen erfolgen. Bei An- oder Abreise von allen übrigen Häfen sollte die Buchung früher stattfinden. Die Reisenden müssen ihre gepackten Koffer nur zwei Arbeitstage vor der Abreise zur Abholung bereitstellen und können dann entspannt an Bord wieder auspacken. Das Gleiche gilt selbstverständlich für den Rückweg nach Hause.

Bereits seit September 2021 unterstützt TEFRA aktiv den Reisevertrieb und gestaltet Zusatzangebote, um Expedient:innen von dem Service zu begeistern sowie die Kundenbindung zu stärken. Gestartet ist er mit der Vergütung des Haus-zu-Haus Services in Höhe von 10 Prozent. Mittlerweile ist das Angebot am Counter angekommen und erfreut sich bei vielen Reiseprofis mit wachsender Beliebtheit.

Ab 01. Januar 2023 wird zudem eine Preiserhöhung notwendig. Aufgrund der stark gestiegenen Kraft- und Treibstoffkosten und der wachsenden Inflation ist TEFRA erstmals seit 8 Jahren gezwungen, die Preise anzuheben.

Carsten Leder, Geschäftsführer der TEFRA Travel Logistics GmbH, erklärt: „Es ist uns sehr wichtig unserem Anspruch als verlässlicher Partner für unsere Kund:innen gerecht zu werden. Daher sind die preislichen Anpassungen für uns leider unausweichlich.“ Leder fährt fort: „Dafür freuen wir uns umso mehr, dass wir im neuen Jahr unsere Zusammenarbeit mit dem Reisevertrieb noch ausbauen und stärken können.”

Mehr Informationen zur Buchung des TEFRA Gepäckservices können Interessent:innen unter www.tefra-gepaeckservice.de finden. Zusätzlichen Support bietet der Gepäckservice außerdem über eine geschlossene Facebook-Gruppe für alle Expedient:innen.

(Hamburg, 21.11.2022) Ab sofort bietet TEFRA Gepäckservice seinen Kunden noch mehr Sicherheit für eine sorglose Reise. Die 5-Sterne TEFRA Qualitätsgarantie bürgt für eine reibungslose Abwicklung sowie verlässliche und rechtzeitige Zustellung des Gepäcks. Durch dauerhafte Kontrollen und Anpassungen wird der Service stetig verbessert, um eine überdurchschnittlich hohe Zufriedenheitsquote unter den Kunden zu gewährleisten. Dank der Partnerschaft mit Chapman Freeborn OBC arbeiten nun gleich zwei Marktführer und Experten ihrer Branche daran, das Versprechen sowie eine 24/7 Erreichbarkeit sicherzustellen.

Die Chapman Freeborn OBC GmbH wurde 2006 in Deutschland als spezialisierte Tochtergesellschaft der Chapman Freeborn Group gegründet – eines der weltweit angesehensten Unternehmen im Luftfrachtbereich. Bei zeitkritischen Sendungen nutzt der On-Board-Kurierdienst die weltweiten Netzwerke der Fluggesellschaften, um Lieferungen zu beschleunigen und rechtzeitig zuzustellen. Ganz gleich, ob es sich um Prototypen, Produktproben, benötigte Bauteile, wie beispielsweise für ein Kreuzfahrtschiff oder Gepäckstücke wie bei TEFRA handelt.

René Roth, OBC Sales Manager bei Chapman Freeborn erklärt: „Uns verbindet mit TEFRA das gemeinsame Interesse an Qualität, Sicherheit und Zuverlässigkeit. Diese Werte legen die Grundlage für eine starke Partnerschaft, weshalb wir uns sehr über die Kooperation freuen”.

Carsten Leder, Geschäftsführer der TEFRA Travel Logistics GmbH ergänzt: „Wir sind stolz, dass wir mit Chapman Freeborn OBC einen Partner mit großer Expertise gewonnen haben, der guten Kundenservice genauso schätzt, wie wir. Gemeinsam konnten wir ein ausgezeichnetes, standardisiertes Vorgehen für unsere zeitkritischen Sendungen entwickeln und freuen uns auf die zukünftige Zusammenarbeit".

Mehr Informationen zur Buchung des TEFRA Gepäckservices können Interessenten und Interessentinnen unter www.tefra-gepaeckservice.de finden.

(Los Angeles/Bonn/Köln, 18.11.2022) Vom 14. bis zum 16. November veranstaltete UNIWORLD erstmals ein Vertriebsevent in Paris für Reiseverkäufer*innen aus Deutschland, Österreich und der Schweiz. Begrüßt wurden die 90 Expedient*innen in der Stadt der Liebe an Bord des Boutique-Schiffes S.S. Joie de Vivre. Dort hatten sie nicht nur die Möglichkeit, das Luxusschiff hautnah zu erleben und kennenzulernen, sondern konnten auch bei einem abwechslungsreichen Programm neue Erkenntnisse für den erfolgreichen Verkauf des Produktes im eigenen Büro gewinnen.

Ein abwechslungsreiches Programm der Reederei, sowie ergänzende Workshops mit exklusiven Partnern wie TEFRA Gepäckservice, HanseMerkur Reiseversicherung und Ponant Kreuzfahrten machten die Veranstaltung zu einem vollen Erfolg. Auf zwei verschiedenen Ausflügen hatte eine Auswahl der Vertriebspartnerinnen die Möglichkeit, die Umgebung und das Landprogramm der Reederei zu erkunden. Beide Ausflüge sind für die UNIWORLD Gäste auf ihrer Reise im Preis inkludiert. So konnten die Teilnehmenden das UNIWORLD All-Inclusive Versprechen genauso erleben, wie es auch ihre Kundinnen tun würden. Das Abendprogramm sorgte ebenfalls für gute Stimmung. An Bord spielten eine Live-Band sowie ein DJ und ein besonderes Highlight war die Roaring 20s Party, auf der der Stil der „Goldenen Zwanziger“ zelebriert wurde. Dieser findet sich auch in einigen Details an Bord der Joie de Vivre wieder.

„Wir sind sehr glücklich, dass wir unseren Vertriebspartner*innen erstmals ein Uniworld Schiff und die einzigartige Philosophie der Produkte live an Bord präsentieren konnten.“, erklärt Bettina Zwickler, Generalagentur DACH für Uniworld und Inhaberin des Passage-Kontor Kapitän P. Henssel aus Schwentinental in der Nähe von Kiel.

Wer sich selbst von der S.S. Joie de Vivre und den Highlights des Events überzeugen möchte, kann hier einen Blick auf die Bildergalerie werfen.

Um zukünftig keine Informationen rund um die Luxusreederei zu verpassen, empfiehlt es sich, den Newsletter zu abonnieren und der B2B-Facebook-Gruppe beizutreten.

Mehr Informationen und die Möglichkeit zur Buchung der Kreuzfahrten finden Interessenten unter https://passage-kontor.de/uniworld/uniworld-reisen/. Anfragen können per Mail an uniworld@passage-kontor.de gestellt werden. Eine telefonische Beratung erhalten Sie unter 04307-6600. Unter https://passage-kontor.de/uniworld/kataloganforderung/ lässt sich zudem der aktuelle Katalog bestellen.

(Köln, 05.09.2022) Ab sofort ist das Midoffice System ARGUS von Schmetterling Technology in der paxlounge verfügbar. Dies ermöglicht die Darstellung des gesamten Angebotsverlauf in der Kundenhistorie. Durch das intelligente Zusammenspiel der beiden Systeme ist zudem ein kunden- und datengetriebenes Marketing möglich.

Die paxconnect, die die paxlounge betreibt, stellt seit Anfang des Jahres eine Schnittstelle bereit, die allen Midoffice Systemen die direkte Anbindung an die paxlounge ermöglicht. Erst kürzlich wurde Synccess Z.I.E.L freigeschaltet.

Mit ARGUS folgt nun das zweite, große Midoffice System.

“Die Entwicklung der Schnittstelle zu allen Midoffice Systemen ist für uns ein wegweisender Schritt und ermöglicht dem Reisevertrieb ein noch komfortableres Erlebnis der paxlounge”, so Joachim Monski, Geschäftsführender Gesellschafter der paxconnect GmbH.

„Mit der Anbindung an die paxlounge bringen wir die Beratung unserer Büros auf ein neues Level. Das Zusammenspiel der beiden Systeme ARGUS und paxlounge bietet dem stationären Vertrieb eine unschlagbare Kombination von zwei Systemen, die Beratung am Counter revolutionieren”, ergänzt Ömer Karaca, Geschäftsführer bei Schmetterling.

Markus Sperl vom Reisebüro Neuffen und Betatester stellt eine „signifikante Zeitersparnis“ fest und berichtet,„dass durch die automatische Zuordnung manuelle und doppelte Eingaben wegfallen“.

Auch Stephan Wahlstätt, Betreiber des Portals “Restplatzshop.de” ist begeistert, er will mit den Informationen aus seinen paxlounge-Beratungen in ARGUS „künftig schneller auf Anfragen reagieren und Marketingmaßnahmen optimieren“.

Schmetterling und paxconnect stellen die Funktionen in kostenfreien Webinaren ab dem 14.9. gemeinsam vor.

Anmeldungen erfolgen unter:

https://www.paxconnect.de/expert-webinar

(Bonn, 22.06.2022) Die Arbeitswelt verändert sich und es wird immer wichtiger, die vorhandene Vielfalt in der Gesellschaft anzuerkennen und zu fördern. Aus diesem Grund tritt KITICON Global Networks dem Unterzeichner-Netzwerk „Charta der Vielfalt” bei. Die Agentur setzt damit ein richtungsweisendes Zeichen dafür, dass Vielfalt, Offenheit und Integration nicht nur im eigenen Unternehmen, sondern auch darüber hinaus aktiv unterstützt werden müssen.

Die Umsetzung der Charta der Vielfalt hat das Ziel ein wertschätzendes Arbeitsumfeld für alle Mitarbeitenden zu schaffen – unabhängig von Alter, ethnischer Herkunft, Nationalität, Geschlecht und geschlechtlicher Identität, genauso wie körperlichen und geistigen Fähigkeiten, Religion und Weltanschauung, sexueller Orientierung oder sozialer Herkunft.

Unterzeichnet wurde die Urkunde von Geschäftsführerin Tina Kirfel. Sie erklärt: „Uns ist wichtig die Vielfalt, Chancengleichheit und Fairness für eine erfolgreiche Unternehmenskultur zu leben und auch unsere Kunden dabei zu unterstützen. Hierzu bieten wir als Agentur einen professionellen Service an. Daher ist die Unterzeichnung für uns sehr wichtig.”

Stefan Kiefer, Geschäftsführer der Charta, heißt KITICON Global Networks im Netzwerk Willkommen und ergänzt: „Wir wünschen auch weiterhin gutes Gelingen bei der Umsetzung des Diversity-Managements im Unternehmen. Wir freuen uns darauf, zu sehen, wie das wertschätzende und respektvolle Miteinander – das KITICON als Agentur so auszeichnet und erfolgreich macht – in der Zukunft weiter gefördert wird.”

Die Charta der Vielfalt ist eine Arbeitgebendeninitiative zur Förderung von Vielfalt in Unternehmen und Institutionen. Sie wurde im Dezember 2006 von vier Unternehmen ins Leben gerufen und wird von der Beauftragten der Bundesregierung für Migration, Flüchtlinge und Integration, Staatsministerin Reem Alabali-Radovan, unterstützt. Das Herzstück der Initiative ist eine Urkunde, mit der sich die Unterzeichnenden selbst verpflichten, Vielfalt und Wertschätzung in der Arbeitswelt zu fördern. Über 4.600 Unternehmen und Institutionen mit insgesamt 14,6 Millionen Beschäftigten haben die Charta der Vielfalt bereits unterzeichnet, und kontinuierlich kommen neue Unterzeichner*innen hinzu.