The American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) has launched the Extra Mile Award contest, to recognize travel agents who have gone above and beyond the call of duty to help their customers.“ASTA agents regularly deal with trips gone wrong, accommodation problems and unexpected surprises that travelers face,” said ASTA President and CEO Kathy Sudeikis, CTC. “This award is a way of recognizing agents who have ‘gone the extra mile’ for consumers.”

All travel agents can nominate themselves or can be nominated by their employers or customers. The person nominating the agent will be required to write up to 500 words on ASTA’s Web site about why this travel agent deserves the ASTA Extra Mile Award. The entry must include examples of the travel agent’s consistency of effectively serving her clients and examples of exemplary client service. The judging panel will consist of qualified travel writers.

The grand prize winner will receive registration, airfare and accommodations to the 2005 World Travel Congress in Montreal, where they will receive an award presentation, $1,000 donated to a charity of the winner’s choice, one year ASTA membership or renewal, and a trophy or plaque recognizing the achievement. The nominating process begins immediately, and the winner will be announced in the summer of 2005.
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