fam trips for travel agents 2024

Sunny Land Tours – Since 1964

Unforgettable Travel Experiences Over 50 Years

Travel Agents FAM TRIPS

Nobody offers more Travel Agent FAM Trips than Sunny Land Tours.

With more than 35 unique FAM Trips, it’s hard to choose which one to take first! Select from our 2024 / 2025 weekly FAM Trip dates, some of our FAM Trips allow you to select your own date! Best yet, we welcome your friends and family and we encourage travel agents to bring their guests along. Some of our FAM Trips allow your guests to benefit from the same rate! Book your FAM Trip now for travel through 2025 to the world’s most amazing places and know that you’ll be traveling with the signature service that has been our hallmark for 60 years! This collection of FAM Trips is our way of thanking you for your support for over 60 years!

AT SUNNY LAND TOURS WE LOVE TRAVEL AGENT PROFESSIONALS!

We have long worked with travel agents from all over the world who help us in  Delivering Unforgettable Travel Experiences since 1964 . Travel Agents –  Sunny Land has a special web-portal access established exclusively for Travel Agents Professionals Click to access the exclusive  Travel Agent web portal  and booking engine. If your agency is new, or not in our Agency database, we’ll ask that you complete the  New Agency Information Page  so that we have completed information on your agency and you. If you are a returning agent and have forgotten your password, please click on  Forgot Password? and the system will reset and e-mail you a new password. Once connected, update your profile and select a new password if desired.

Sunny Land welcomes your bookings, and thanks for entrusting your customers to our care. Sunny Land pledges to  Deliver an Unforgettable Travel Experience to your clients.

The Travel Industry's Leading Source for FAM Trips & Travel Agent Discounts!

FAMrates.com is the "Original & First" website owned and operated by travel professionals who strive to bring you the latest in Fam tip and Travel Agent Discount information. With our experience, expertise, and supplier participation, you can count on us to provide accurate and exciting fam information every week! .

Gain access to countless FAM Opportunities. BONUS: Also includes a FREE downloadable copy of: Once you subscribe, a downloadable copy of: "The Complete Guide to FAM Trips & Travel Agent Discounts" will be available. This guide will teach you, step-by-step, how to set-up and request your own fam trips and site inspections.

Our site is updated weekly with new and exciting 2024 FAM postings that are categorized by geographic location ( time sensitive additions are added immediately ): USA & Canada, Asia & Middle East, Europe, Pacific and Hawaii, Mexico and Caribbean, Central and South America.

From complimentary/free hotel stays to $99 cruises, over the last 20 years we've seen it all.

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Fam Trips for Travel Agents 2024: See What’s New in 2024

Fam Trips for Travel Agents 2024

Fam trips, also known as familiarization trips, are essential for travel agents to gain firsthand experience and knowledge about various destinations and travel experiences. In 2024, these trips will continue to play a crucial role in helping travel agents provide better service and advice to their clients.

What are Fam Trips and Why are They Important for Travel Agents?

Definition of fam trips.

Fam trips are specially organized trips for travel agents, where they get the opportunity to explore different destinations, tour experiences, and cruise packages. These trips are organized by various tourism boards, tour operators, cruise lines, and other travel industry professionals.

Benefits of Fam Trips for Travel Agents

Fam trips offer several benefits to travel agents. Firstly, they provide a chance to personally experience the destinations and activities they sell to their clients. This firsthand experience enhances their knowledge and credibility, allowing them to provide more accurate and reliable information to their clients.

Secondly, fam trips help travel agents build a network of industry professionals. By connecting with fellow travel agents, hotel representatives, and tour operators during these trips, travel agents can establish valuable relationships that can lead to collaborations and business opportunities.

Lastly, fam trips keep travel agents up-to-date with the latest travel trends and entertainment options. This knowledge helps them craft unique itineraries and provide personalized recommendations to their clients.

How Fam Trips Help Travel Agents Provide Better Service to Clients

Participating in fam trips allows travel agents to offer more personalized and tailored recommendations to their clients. They can suggest activities and destinations based on their own experiences, ensuring that clients have unforgettable journeys.

Furthermore, travel agents who have been on fam trips can offer insights into specific destinations, giving clients a deeper understanding of the culture, history, and attractions they can expect to encounter during their travels.

How Can Travel Agents Join Fam Trips in 2024?

Important dates and deadlines for joining fam trips in 2024.

To join fam trips in 2024, travel agents need to stay updated with the important dates and deadlines set by tour operators, cruise lines, and tourist boards. It is advisable to regularly check the websites and platforms dedicated to organizing fam trips, such as famtrips.travel.

Steps to Join a Fam Trip as a Travel Agent

To join a fam trip, travel agents need to follow a few steps. Firstly, they should identify the fam trips that align with their professional goals and interests. Once identified, travel agents can reach out to the organizing agencies and express their interest in joining the trip.

Please note that there may be specific requirements and qualifications set by the organizing agencies. It is important for travel agents to fulfill these criteria in order to be considered eligible for participation.

Requirements and Qualifications for Travel Agents to Join Fam Trips in 2024

While the requirements and qualifications may vary depending on the fam trip and organizing agency, some common prerequisites include being a registered travel agent, having a certain level of sales volume, and demonstrating strong customer service skills. It is recommended for travel agents to contact the organizing agency directly for detailed information regarding eligibility criteria.

What Destinations and Experiences Can Travel Agents Expect in Fam Trips 2024?

Discovering croatia: an immersive fam trip experience.

Croatia, a breathtaking country in Europe, will be a popular destination for fam trips in 2024. Travel agents can expect to explore ancient cities, swim in crystal-clear waters, and visit stunning national parks. This immersive experience will provide travel agents with a deep understanding of Croatia’s cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Exploring the Rich Cultures of Kenya and Morocco: Unforgettable Fam Trips

For travel agents seeking an exotic adventure, fam trips to Kenya and Morocco will be a must in 2024. These trips will allow travel agents to discover the diverse cultures, vibrant markets, and majestic landscapes of these African nations. From wildlife safaris to exploring ancient medinas, these fam trips will be truly unforgettable.

Embarking on a Luxurious River Cruise: A Memorable Fam Trip Experience

Travel agents who specialize in cruise packages can look forward to fam trips that showcase luxurious river cruises. These trips will take travel agents on a journey along stunning waterways, allowing them to experience the comfort and elegance of cruise ships. From onboard amenities to breathtaking ports of call, these fam trips will offer an unparalleled experience.

How Fam Trips Help Travel Agents Enhance Their Professional Skills

Networking opportunities with industry professionals.

One of the major advantages of fam trips is the opportunity to network with industry professionals. Travel agents can interact with hotel representatives, tour operators, and other agents from around the world, expanding their professional contacts and increasing potential collaborations.

Learning About Exclusive Tour Itineraries and Cruise Packages

Fam trips often provide travel agents with insider information about exclusive tour itineraries and cruise packages. This knowledge gives them a competitive edge in offering unique experiences to their clients, ensuring client satisfaction and repeat business.

Staying Updated with the Latest Trends and Entertainment Options in Travel

Participating in fam trips keeps travel agents up-to-date with the latest trends and entertainment options in the travel industry. They can learn about new attractions, emerging destinations, and innovative travel services, enabling them to provide cutting-edge recommendations to their clients.

How to Book Fam Trips and Manage Clients’ Expectations?

Tips for booking fam trips efficiently.

When booking fam trips, travel agents should stay organized and plan ahead. It is recommended to select fam trips that align with their clients’ interests and preferences. Additionally, being flexible with travel dates can increase the chances of securing a spot on popular trips.

Setting Realistic Expectations for Clients Participating in Fam Trips

Travel agents need to manage their clients’ expectations when offering fam trips. It is important to convey that fam trips are primarily intended for travel professionals to gain knowledge and experience, and may not provide the same level of luxury and customization as a regular vacation.

Managing Client Feedback and Improving Future Fam Trip Experiences

Feedback from clients who participate in fam trips is invaluable for travel agents. By actively listening to their clients’ opinions and suggestions, travel agents can improve the overall fam trip experience and meet the evolving needs of their clients.

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Travel Industry Today

Ensemble announces 2024 fam schedule.

Following the success of its inaugural ‘Further Your World; Exclusive Educational Trip’ last month, Ensemble, has announced an initial schedule of FAM trips for 2024, with destinations ranging from the Maldives and South America to the Middle East.

The new FAM program is centred on providing members with firsthand in-destination experiences to build greater knowledge of and relationships with the consortium’s partners.

Through ‘Further Your World,’ Ensemble says advisors will gain direct access to in-demand destinations, emerging themes, and new products, along with the opportunity to engage in networking, and participate in educational programs to elevate their performance within the travel industry. The process to be considered includes applications and pre-trip training along with additional follow-up and training for up to a year following the trip to better track and measure success.

The first FAM experience in partnership with Silversea to Iceland was completed in July 2023 with additional trips this year to Egypt with Egypt & Beyond; a cruise along the Mekong River through Cambodia and Vietnam with AMA Waterways; and a trip to Ecuador with G Adventures.

2024 program

A range of trips to destinations around the globe ranging from immersive trips with a duration of seven to 10 days, as well as shorter “city breaks,” includes itineraries with the following partners to trending and emerging destinations:

• Intrepid – Feb. 17-27 – This 11-day Antarctic adventure will provide advisors with an in-depth experience to one of the top trending destinations with opportunities to learn about this remote part of the world that is drawing travellers to this remote part of the world in record numbers.

• South American Tours Peru – March 2-7 – An immersive trip to Peru’s most popular cities and experiences including Lima, Cusco, Sacred Valley, and Machu Picchu will give advisors opportunities to learn about the country’s cultural, adventure and nature offerings from the Andes to the rainforest as well as get a taste of the gourmet culinary scene.

• Metropolitan Tours Peru – March 16-23 – Another opportunity to explore the archaeological richness and colorful traditions of Peru with visits to Lima, the Sacred Valley, Machu Picchu, and Cusco.

• Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority – April – Along with site inspections of these twin islands’ hotels and resorts, participants will have an opportunity to explore the area just as their clients would including a stop at the weekly market where they can meet locals.

• South American Tours Ecuador – May 4-15 – This trip to the Galapagos, Quito, and Otavalo will give advisors a comprehensive look at Ecuador’s wide range of topography from jungle-rainforest to the high slopes of the Andes, and then down to the Pacific coast. The trip also includes a visit to the Galápagos and options to do “get below the surface” with dive excursions.

• Travel Excellence – June 7-14 – A 7-day trip to Costa Rica features highlights of this country’s vast nature, wildlife, rich culture, and diverse gastronomy from the rainforest to the Arenal Volcano, culminating in a visit to one of the most beautiful beaches of the Pacific Coast.

• Cunard – Aug. 5-12 – Sailing from Rome to Barcelona offering opportunities to visit landmarks in Rome and Pisa and sunbathing in Palma de Mallorca before ending the adventure in Barcelona.

• AmaWaterways – Oct. 19- 26 – This sailing on the Danube from Budapest to Vilshofen will give advisors a firsthand look at why this storied river has inspired generations of artists, poets, and musicians with opportunities to see timeless architecture and art in three capitals: Budapest, Bratislava, and Vienna.

• G Adventures – Oct. 20-27 – This Northern India itinerary to Delhi, Agra, Jaipur and Pachewa includes a visit to the Taj Mahal and ends with a stay in a timeless desert village.

Additional dates will be announced with partners including Koveli Travel to the Maldives; Island Routes for a November 2024 Jamaica fam; a trip to Israel with Eshet also in November; and a Big Five trip to Guatemala in April.

Dates and itineraries for additional FAMs will be shared with members as they are confirmed, including another trip with Silversea, which hosted the inaugural Further Your World FAM trip, and others.

“We are thrilled to offer a comprehensive and diverse schedule of FAM trips for 2024 that will allow our advisors to gain insight into so many emerging and trending destinations covering all parts of the world,” said Jenn Kotacka, Sr. Director of Training and Development for Ensemble. “We are truly grateful to our partners who have embraced the new FAM program and are as excited as we are to provide our members with these important opportunities to experience their product and learn about the nuances these destinations offer as they represent the types of trips that their clients are asking about.”

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Travel Agent FAM Trips: What They Are + How to Find Them

Ahhhh.... the travel industry. It's a beautiful industry and one we here at HAR are lucky enough to work/play in! One of the greatest perks in travel are travel agent familiarization trips, or FAM trips for short. They're also sometimes called FAM tours.

Here's the thing, people outside the industry usually have two conflicting thoughts about travel agents:

1) When they find out I work with travel advisors they ask if travel agents still exist.

2) Then they immediately think I'm a travel advisor and ask, " Do you get to travel a lot? For free?!? "

Here's the answers to those questions:

1) Ooooooh, my friend, travel agents sure do exist! In 2022, traditional travel agencies market share was 21% and online travel agencies was 22% ? True story. Here's more on a travel agent career outlook .

2) And yes, as a producing travel advisor you get to travel a lot and sometimes for free or at a significant discount. Producing is the key word here. :)

What I can never figure out is how you can think travel agents aren't around if they get to travel all the time to gorgeous destinations for free or reduced costs. 🤔 Wouldn't the market be flooded with people wanting to become a travel agent if that was the case?!

These enviable trips are called FAM trips and they're key to travel advisors being invaluable resources to their clients.

(For those of you dying for some 'me time' on the beach, don't worry, FAM trip is short for familiarization trip. It DOES NOT mean you have to bring your family with you on the trips. 😂 In fact, if +1s are allowed, it is often at a little higher cost but often FAM trips are just for advisors.)

So let me break down what a FAM trip is, what happens on FAM tours, where you can find FAM trips, and the question I know you all are asking, how you can get invited on a familiarization trip!

What is a FAM trip for travel agents?

A travel agent FAM trip is a trip offered by a vendor, destination or another entity in the travel industry

Let's clarify one thing. A FAM trip is not the same as travel agent discounts on personal travel. For that, you can check out our article with over 200+ travel agent rates we lovingly keep updated for you. :)

A travel agent FAM trip is a trip offered by a vendor, destination or another entity in the travel industry—like an industry association, a host agency or a travel consortium to travel advisors—allowing the travel agent to experience the product/destination so that they can better sell it.

Travel advisors are salespeople at their core and like any salesperson, they can sell more when they experience the product or service.

Vendors and destinations know that travel agent FAM tours are a cost-effective way to increase sales. All the pics the travel agents post while on FAM trips are darn good PR and advertising!

I'll tell you a secret: once you become a travel agent and start connecting with industry colleagues

a) you will get out of offices all. the. time. from colleagues traveling to awesome places and

b) your social feed will be crammed full of pics from your industry besties traveling around the world. :)

What are the different types of familiarization (FAM) trips?

Those social feeds crammed with enviable travel photos I just mentioned? Well, they are meant to be marketing the destination/property/etc. So you should definitely be feeling FOMO and jealousy.

BUT! That could literally be the only hour the advisor was able to enjoy the pool or beach during their 3-day familiarization trip. Like most things on social, the reality of a FAM trip is often much different than what the photos painted.

Let's break down FAM tours into a few categories so you have a better idea of what to expect.

And for the record, I just created these categories since I really feel like we need to differentiate them so please help me grow this industry lexicon and start throwing them around in industry forums! 😂

Working FAM trips

These FAM trips are exactly what they sound like. Working FAMs are the majority of familiarization trips and they are meant to maximize your time in the destination.

This means that you're often up at 6 am, on your feet all day visiting multiple properties (called site inspections ) or having in-destination experiences like a pasta-making class or white water rafting.

After a full day of action, you sit down for your dinner and do some serious networking. You don't hit the bed until 10 or 11 pm. FAM trips are tons of fun, but they are also tiring! It's like traveling with your ADHD friend that is inexhaustible. :)

The company or destination that organized the FAM trip wants you to see and experience as much as possible so you often have a jam-packed schedule from sun up to past sundown.

EXPERIENTIAL FAM trips

Experiential FAM trips are still working familiarization trips but have a more relaxed schedule, as in you won't be touring 4 resorts in Jamaica a day and then have evening activities. :)

You might be staying at a dude ranch and each day have an activity or two planned.

Or you might have attended a travel conference and signed on for the pre/post tours where you get to do a guided activity each day and then return to your hotel at night. (Here's a guide to maximize your travel conference learning and networking.)

Experiential FAM tours are my favorite FAMs because they're easier to remember more vividly. Plus, I don't come away completely overstimulated and sleep deprived!

AWARD FAM TRIPS

When your agency starts really producing, award FAM trips will open up for you.

Simply put, they're awards trips for top producing travel agencies but they also function as a FAM because they may include visiting a few properties. Plus, when most people think of FAM trips, they're wondering about free or discounted tours and award FAM trips fall into that category.

On award FAM trips, the host really pulls out the stops so you can experience all the host and the destination have to offer

On award FAM trips, the host really pulls out the stops so you can experience all the host and the destination have to offer! After all, these are the agencies that bring in a lot of sales.

Award FAM trips are typically fully comped and the familiarization trip host will have all sorts of great things planned for you! It's a lot of networking and fun, and less work. :)

What happens on a travel agent FAM trip?

Your itinerary will vary based on the type of travel agent FAM trip you're on. As I mentioned earlier, working FAMs have jam packed schedules!

If I were to generalize, I would say that on a FAM tour expect to be wined and dined at different properties or restaurants. You'll tour various properties where you'll see different room categories as well as meet with key staff that will allow you to better serve your clients.

When it comes to cruise ships, cruise FAM trips are often called Seminars at Sea when you get to sail on the ship and ship inspections when you tour it while it's in port.

And equally as important on FAM tours is the networking and bonding that happens with your host and fellow travel colleagues. Most advisors have their family and then they have their 'travel family', which are the colleagues they get to travel around the world with. As we all know, travel bonds people like nothing else!

Cruise FAM trips are often called Seminars at Sea when you get to sail on the ship and ship inspections when you tour it while it's in port.

Travel agent FAM trip technology + FAM trip marketing

You'll take tons of pictures and videos to share with clients and use for marketing. You'll also take a lot of notes. How do you keep all that FAM trip info straight? Here's a few resources for you.

Fam with Intention has a paid course on what to do before, during and after your travel agent FAM tour to make sure you maximize the experience.

Keeping track of everything you see and do, as well as the people you meet on travel agent FAM trips is challenging. HAR has free ship inspection forms as well as free site inspection forms that can help you out. They're old school PDF but can't beat free!

And if you are looking for something way more snazzy in app form (paid), check out MyFamTrip or FamGuru .

How much do travel agent FAMs cost?

I wish I had a specific answer for you but travel agent FAM prices will vary from completely free (sometimes referred to as hosted, as in they're 100% hosting you) to a decent discount.

Here's what you can generally expect included on a travel agent FAM trip:

• Excursions/Activities

What's usually not included on travel agent FAM tours:

• Tips for your drivers, bellhops, guides, housekeeping, etc. (These people work incredibly hard and depend on tips so make sure to bring cash.)
• Your travel insurance (never included)

Where can I find a list of travel agent FAM trips?

Great question! Here are a few places you can find FAM trips listed.

HAR's INDUSTRy calendar

We have a great list of FAM trips on HAR's free travel industry event calendar that you can check out.

Often times travel industry conferences in popular tourist destinations will offer pre/post-add-ons that allow you to experience the destination at a discounted rates.

FAM-SPEcific websites

Other online places to find travel agent FAMs are destination-specific websites like:

• MexicoFamTrips.com
• CaribbeanFamTrips.com
• JamaicaFamTrips.com

There are also a few websites that list travel agent FAM trips like :

• Famtrips.travel
• FAMrates.com (paid subscription)
• WanderfullyFammed , which are led by an advisor/photographer and part of the trip is that she provides all the marketing content for advisors to promote it during and after.

But here's another secret, the real travel agent FAM deals that are generously subsidized are not publicized. They are invite-only FAM trips or require you to apply, where the competition is stiff.

Travel Consortium + Host AgencY FAM TRIPS

Your host agency and/or consortium are one of the places where you can find the generously subsidized FAM trips.

Only members of their networks have access to these FAM trips and there may be sales or other requirements you need to meet. They may send out an email with the opportunity or they may reach out to advisors they know would be a good fit for it so that's another reason to cultivate those relationships with your host and consortium!

DESTINATIONS and vendors FAM TourS FOR TRAVEL AGENTS

Another place where you can find severely discounted travel agent FAM trips is through destinations and preferred suppliers like cruise lines, tour operators, destination management companies (DMCs), and resorts.

\When you sign up as an advisor with them that gets you into their database and you'll receive information on upcoming travel agent FAM opportunities.

These FAM trips may be emailed out to the entire database and you have to apply, or it may be that the organization reaches out individually to their ideal travel advisors. Again, build those relationships at travel industry events so you're top of mind. :)

How the heck can I get invited on a travel agent FAM trip?!?

Love your enthusiasm!

Let's back up a step because the first requirement is that you're a travel agent. If you aren't one but think it would be a cool career (it totally is), check out our article with more info on how to start your travel agency .

The next requirement hurdle is you'll need to be a producing advisor.

On rare occasions, new advisors without a history of sales can be invited on a travel agent FAM trip, but you'd have to show you have the potential to bring in sales. This is usually done by showing your network of friends/colleagues/clients as the target demographic for that particular FAM trip.

Another option for newbies is you can show that you are serious and focused on selling that particular brand/destination/trip type. Do this by reaching out to your BDM (business development manager) and writing up an in-depth sales plan on what you'll do to bring them sales.

Other than that, each FAM will have its own requirements which they'll communicate to you.

FAM Trip Etiquette

Believe it or not, not everyone behaves well on FAM trips. Whether this is your first FAM trip or your 30th, it's important to know FAM trip etiquette.

We put together a one sheet for you to help promote proper FAM etiquette. Share with colleagues or print some out for your upcoming FAM and offer them to any new advisors who may need some guidance on etiquette!

If you're someone that hosts FAM trips, feel free to use the image and send out with your FAM materials.

You now are fully educated on one of the best travel industry secrets... travel agent FAM trips! I hope you can experience one soon as they're amazing experiences. :)

If you're an advisor that landed on this article, I would LOVE to have you share any FAM experiences or advice in the comments below!

About the Author

Steph grew up in the travel industry, helping on and off with her mom's homebased travel agency. She has worked with thousands of agents in her role as a former host agency director before leaving in 2012 to start HAR. She's insatiably curious, loves her pups Fennec and Orion, and -- in case you haven't noticed -- is pretty quirky and free-spirited.

If you’re looking for Steph, she leaves a trace where ever she goes! You can find her on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn (her fav) and Pinterest as 'iamstephly'. 🙂 You can also catch her on her Substack, Bumblin' Around, where she writes on things outside the world of HAR.

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• Cruise Hub , Cunard , Latest News , Ocean Cruise , Travel Agents
• April 10, 2024

Cunard Announces 2024 Fam Trips For Travel Agents

Cunard has announced its 2024 schedule of travel agent familiarisation (fam) trips.

The cruise line will offer a total of four departures, all roundtrip from Southampton, taking place from August to November.

In a statement, Cunard said that this year it will “welcome more agents on board than ever before”.

The programme will comprise nine ship visits, 400 travel agents for Queen Anne’s Operational Test on 29 April and 185 agents aboard its newest ship during the CLIA Conference in May.

The fam trips will all be four-night sailings, with 20 trade partners on each.

Agents will stay in Balcony staterooms or Princess Grill Suites, and while on board will be treated to drink receptions, immersive training sessions, a speciality dining experience and shore excursions.

Wi-Fi will be provided and hotel and dining service charges covered.

The fam trips comprise:

• August 28 – on Queen Anne, sailing to Rotterdam
• September 11 – on Queen Mary 2, sailing to Zeebrugge
• October 13 – on Queen Mary 2, sailing to Hamburg
• November 15 – on Queen Victoria, sailing to Amsterdam

Agents can register their interest in attending via Shine Rewards Club, aside from the September 11 voyage which is invite only.

Tom Mahoney, Director of UK Sales at Cunard, said: “These familiarisation trips will provide invaluable insights into the incredible Cunard experience and what makes us truly unique.

“We appreciate how important it is for agents to get on board, and with this announcement and our comprehensive ship visit programme, we want to demonstrate an unprecedented commitment to our trade partners.”

Agents can visit www.ShineRewardsClub.com for the latest Cunard news and information, as well as to earn Shine points for bookings and training.

For more information about Cunard, or to book a voyage, visit www.cunard.com .

Click here for more exciting trade updates or browse Travel Pursuit UK for the latest travel news from your favourite travel brands!

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Fam trips / tours specialists' egypt fams 2024.

5 and 9 day FAMs to Egypt

Tours Specialists reveals 2 Egypt FAM trip opportunities for Travel Agents and their companions!

Egypt FAM | 5 Days

• Daily departures January 1, – September 30, 2024
• Travel Agent - from $1,050
• Spouse/Companion - $1,150
• Includes: 4 star hotels, transfers, sightseeing, and breakfast daily

Egypt FAM with 4-night Nile Cruise | 9 Days

Cairo, Luxor, Esna, Edfu, Kom Ombo, and Aswan

• Departs every Saturday January 1, – September 30, 2024
• Travel Agent - from $1,950
• Spouse/Companion - $2,050
• Includes: all hotels, daily breakfast, 4 lunches and 4 dinners on the cruise, transfers, and sightseeing

Also available  OPTIONAL LUXOR day trip  additional $630.00

EYGPT with JORDAN – 10 days EGYPT with UAE – 10 days EGYPT with ISRAEL – 13 days

Contact details:

• Email: [email protected]  
• Phone: 727-784-8588
• Website: toursspecialists.com

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Cunard reveals details of agent fam trips for 2024

Cunard will organise four fam trips this year as part of its plan to host more agents than ever before on its ships.

The line will offer four, four-night roundtrip cruises from Southampton on Queen Anne, Queen Mary 2 and Queen Victoria , with up to 20 spaces available on each trip.

Combined with a programme of nine ship visits, hosting 400 travel agents on Queen Anne on 29 April, and another 185 agents during the CLIA Conference in May, Cunard says it demonstrates ‘an unprecedented commitment’ to the trade. 

Cunard Director of UK Sales Tom Mahoney said: “These familiarisation trips will provide invaluable insights into the incredible Cunard experience and what makes us truly unique. We appreciate how important it is for agents to get on board, and with this announcement and our comprehensive ship visit programme, we want to demonstrate an unprecedented commitment to our trade partners.”

The fam trips dates are:

28 August – Q ueen Ann e, sailing to Rotterdam

11 September – Queen Mary 2 , sailing to Zeebrugge

13 October –   Queen Mary 2 , sailing to Hamburg

15 November – Queen Victoria , sailing to Amsterdam

Agents will stay in balcony staterooms or Princess Grill suites, and the cruise will include drinks receptions, training sessions, a speciality dining experience and shore excursions.

Agents can register their interest via Shine Rewards Club.

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Russia is open for international travelers regardless their citizenship/country of residence. Tourist visas are being issued in the USA, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, the UK, EU, Japan, and worldwide. Electronic visas (up to 16 days of stay, single entry) are available for the following nationals: Austria, Andorra, Bahrain, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cambodia, Croatia, Cyprus, China, Czech Republic, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iran, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Kuwait, Latvia, Lithuania, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Monaco, Myanmar, Netherlands, North Macedonia, Norway, Oman, Poland, Portugal, Philippines, Romania, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Serbia, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Switzerland, Sweden, Taiwan, Turkey, Vatican, Vietnam.

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Explore the best travel destinations in Russia with our wide range of sightseeing tours to Moscow, St Petersburg, Golden Ring, Kazan; Northern Lights viewing tours; wildlife & nature tours to Lake Baikal tours, Altai, Kamchatka tours, Trans-Siberian train tours, and more. Find the best guided trips and expert planned Russian holidays 2023-2024.

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Getting your itinerary right is essential for any destination you decide to travel to. The same goes for trips to Russia. There is a lot to see and do, but how do you decide what goes into your itinerary and what doesn't? We always suggest planning your Russia vacation with a travel expert that has organized multiple trips before. Yes, we're talking about ourselves. We know the ins and outs of this gorgeous destination, and we're ready to help you see the best of Russia. But are you ready, though? If you are considering booking an escorted tour of Russia, chat with us right away, and we will tailor-make an itinerary that suits your travel preferences and our premium travel values.

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Cheaper flights, 'coolcations' and ChatGPT: 8 summer travel trends for 2024

Summer 2024 is shaping up to be a dynamic (and busy) travel season, and as always, we're seeing new approaches to how people vacation.

From pop culture influences to the welcome return of cheap flight deals, how we travel is changing and becoming smarter and more efficient than ever.

Whether you're a seasoned jet-setter or planning your first big trip this summer, here are the top summer travel trends for 2024 that you need to know.

The return of cheap flights

The last two summers have seen travelers wrestle with sky-high airfares, but we may have finally reached a turning point. At TPG, we've recently seen an influx of bargain cash and points fares to numerous international destinations from the United States.

Recent deals on our radar include business-class award redemptions to Europe from 50,000 miles as well as round-trip cash fares to Europe for less than $400 — and these offers don't appear to be mere one-offs. Alongside late summer offerings, we're also already seeing a steady slew of good early prices for fall and winter.

This is likely due to a mix of factors, perhaps one of which is an increase in consumer confidence following a gloomy few months as we reached what was hopefully the peak of the cost-of-living crisis. Additionally, the total number of seats available on flights has increased (compared to 2022, the number of open seats on domestic flights is up 14%, according to aviation analytics firm Cirium), and has potentially contributed to the frequency of deals.

Mix all of this with an abundance of high-profile global events happening this year, such as Taylor Swift touring across the world and the Paris Olympics, and it appears airlines have been spurred to compete with each other by slashing prices in a bid to get more bums on seats.

It remains to be seen whether the current boom of lower prices will last, but right now, things are looking optimistic.

A summer of sports

The summer of 2024 is packed with major sporting events — particularly in Europe — which will attract fans and travelers from around the globe.

Most notably, the Summer Olympics will take place in Paris from July 26 to Aug. 11, followed by the Paralympics between Aug. 28 and Sept. 8 — some hotels are already sold out and booking fees are skyrocketing.

The UEFA Euro 2024 soccer tournament also kicked off last Friday in Germany. It will run for a whole month, and the final game will be held at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on July 14.

The summer will also see the Tour de France (which will start in Italy) from June 29 to July 21, the Wimbledon tennis tournament in London from July 1 to July 14 and the ICC Men's T20 World Cup (a cricket tournament), which will be co-hosted by the United States and West Indies.

In addition to travelers buying plane tickets and booking hotels to see these events, this year's jam-packed sports schedule may be indirectly influencing how travelers choose their holidays, too. Airbnb reported a 122% increase in searches within its "Play" category, which reflects a growing interest in the company's offerings of active and playful stays this summer.

'Set-jetting' is more popular than ever

Streaming also continues to influence travel choices. According to the Unpack '24 survey by Expedia, Hotels.com and Vrbo, more than half of travelers are inspired to research or book a trip after seeing a destination featured in a show or movie.

This trend, known as set-jetting, has brought increased awareness of an array of global destinations. Popular vacation spots expected to be particularly busy this year include Thailand (which will be featured in the third season of "The White Lotus"), Romania (featured in the second season of "Wednesday"), Paris (thanks to "Emily in Paris") and South Korea (following the success of "Squid Game").

ChatGPT is working overtime

Artificial intelligence is now an integral part of travel planning, whether you are using it intentionally or if it's quietly powering search and planning tools in the background. A recent survey by Booking.com found that 48% of families are planning to use AI tools like ChatGPT to help organize their trips in 2024.

Though, in our experience, tools like ChatGPT are best used only as rough guides at this point, AI is continuing to affect the way we travel. Earlier this year, Expedia launched its own AI-driven travel tool, Romie , which is now available via Expedia's iOS app in the U.S. and can help create personalized itineraries, warn of trip disruptions and summarize group chats to organize your vacation.

Though we're still at the dawn of how AI will influence travel, this may be the year when AI travel planning will become the norm.

'Coolcations' are a thing now

2023 went down in history books as the hottest year on record, and 2024 could continue the trend of soaring annual temperatures.

According to the European Union's Copernicus Climate Change Service , last May marked 12 consecutive months of record-breaking global temperatures. With rising summer temperatures comes the increased risks of wildfires (as we saw last year in places such as Greece and Hawaii ) and flooding.

On a smaller scale, it is simply unpleasant and uncomfortable to travel when it's too hot. So, it comes as no surprise that Booking.com recently reported that 74% of families globally cite air conditioning as the most important amenity when booking accommodations. The travel industry as a whole has also seen a rise in "coolcations," where travelers prioritize destinations and stays that can offer a respite from the heat.

Popular coolcation destinations for 2024 include Copenhagen, Latvia, Finland, the Scottish Highlands, Estonia and the Azores. Travelers are also flocking to traditional summer destinations like Greece in cooler months, when the temperatures begin to dip.

Taylor Swift is revolutionizing 'gig-tripping'

In 2024, going to a concert or music festival is no longer just about buying a ticket and turning up at your nearest venue — it's about splashing the cash on flights and hotels and turning it into the pop music-tinged vacation your teenage self always dreamed about.

For example, Taylor Swift's "The Eras Tour" is crossing Europe this summer with key stops in the U.K., Netherlands, Italy, Switzerland, Germany and Poland, prompting a rush of ticket sales and hotel bookings at every stop. Many destinations on the tour saw hotels fully booked as early as last December. That said, many Americans realized that it could be more economical to fly to Europe to catch the tour than to pay the going rate for resold tickets in the U.S.

If you're planning a European trip this summer, it's worth checking in advance to ensure that Taylor isn't passing through during your travel dates. But if she is, you could plan to catch her show at a relative bargain.

Hotels still reign supreme

It might seem like all you ever hear on TikTok and Instagram is influencers shouting from the hills about their latest Airbnb find, but in 2024, hotel accommodations still reign supreme when it comes to bookings.

According to Statista Market Insights , hotel bookings have dominated vacation rentals in the share of revenue in 2024, taking 55.6% of the share in the United States alone — vacation rentals, on the other hand, accounted for just 10%, the rest is split between camping, cruises and other types of package vacations. It's a similar picture across Europe and in the U.K., where hotels encompass 53.6% of revenue and vacation rentals 11.7%. The highest hotel market share appeared in Japan, at a whopping 62.3% (hotels) versus 11.9% (vacation rentals).

This is likely due to a variety of factors, including service reliability — hotels are generally much more consistent than vacation rentals. Then, there's been a regular stream of crackdowns on vacation rentals across the globe. Cities have tightened up handing out new property licenses in destinations such as Austria, Rome, Hawaii and even Palm Springs, California; the latter has capped the number of days a short-term property can be rented out at 26 days.

The results are in: Offering reliable service, diverse amenities and prime locations, hotels remain a staple for both leisure and business travel.

Sustainable travel takes center stage

Sustainability is more than a buzzword — it's a movement. Travelers are increasingly seeking eco-friendly destinations and accommodations that prioritize environmental conservation.

According to Booking.com , 53% of travelers are looking for accommodations that blend comfort with innovative sustainability features.

Additionally, slow travel and train travel are gaining popularity as eco-conscious choices. You may remember that locomotive travel featured highly in our 2024 destinations list . And thanks to innovations in high-speed rail, it's now more possible than ever to cross entire countries by train for less effort than it would take to board a plane.

But it's not all about speed. We're also seeing increased interest in high-end train experiences such as Belmond's Eastern & Oriental Express and the opulent La Dolce Vita train by Orient Express, which cater to a more relaxed, refined and, of course, sustainable way of travel.

Bottom line

Summer 2024 is set to be an exciting time to be a traveler, and current trends reflect a wide range of preferences, interests, budgets and lifestyles.

This year, keep an eye out for AI-powered travel planning, a growing interest in sustainability, the return of summer flight deals and a stunning roster of great global events. No matter where you go this year, summer 2024 is set to be a hot one.

Related reading:

• Key travel tips you need to know — whether you're a beginner or expert traveler
• The best travel credit cards
• Where to go in 2024: The 16 best places to travel
• 6 real-life strategies you can use when your flight is canceled or delayed
• 8 of the best credit cards for general travel purchases
• 13 must-have items the TPG team can't travel without

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Putin signs deals with Vietnam in effort to bolster ties in Asia to offset Moscow’s growing isolation

HANOI, Vietnam (AP) — Russian President Vladimir Putin signed at least a dozen deals with his Vietnamese counterpart on Thursday and offered to supply fossil fuels including natural gas to Vietnam for the long term during a state visit that comes as Moscow is seeking to bolster ties in Asia to offset its growing international isolation over its military actions in Ukraine.

WATCH: Putin signs pact with North Korea that could increase weapons for Russia’s war in Ukraine

Putin and President To Lam agreed to further cooperate in education, science and technology, oil and gas exploration, clean energy and health. The two countries also agreed to work on a roadmap for a nuclear science and technology center in Vietnam.

Of the 12 publicly announced agreements, none overtly pertained to defense. But Lam said there were other deals that were not made public.

Following their talks, Putin said the two countries share an interest in “developing a reliable security architecture” in the Asia-Pacific region with no room for “closed military-political blocs.” Lam added that both Russia and Vietnam wanted to “further cooperate in defense and security to cope with non-traditional security challenges.”

The agreements between Russia and Vietnam were not as substantial as the pact Putin signed with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un the previous day which pledged mutual aid in the event of invasion, said Nigel Gould-Davies, a senior fellow for Russia and Eurasia with the International Institute for Strategic Studies in London, and a former British ambassador to Belarus.

Putin’s recent visits to China and now North Korea and Vietnam are attempts to “break the international isolation,” said Nguyen Khac Giang, an analyst at Singapore’s ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute.

Giang said Russia is important to Vietnam for two reasons: It is the biggest supplier of military equipment to the Southeast Asian nation, and Russian oil exploration technologies help maintain Vietnam’s sovereignty claims in the contested South China Sea.

READ MORE: Putin arrives in North Korea for rare visit as Russia seeks to overcome U.S.-led sanctions

Vietnam also has licensed Russian state-controlled oil company Zarubezhneft to develop an offshore block of its southeastern coast.

Putin arrived in Hanoi on Thursday morning from North Korea after signing the strategic pact, which comes as both countries face escalating standoffs with the West and could mark their strongest connection since the end of the Cold War.

In Hanoi, Putin also met Vietnam’s most powerful politician, Communist Party General Secretary Nguyen Phu Trong, and Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, according to the official Vietnam News Agency.

Putin drove to Vietnam’s Presidential Palace on Thursday afternoon, where he was greeted by school children waving Russian and Vietnamese flags.

Much has changed since Putin’s last visit to Vietnam in 2017. Russia now faces a raft of U.S.-led sanctions for its invasion of Ukraine. In 2023, the International Criminal Court in Hague issued an arrest warrant for Putin for alleged war crimes, making it difficult for the Russian leader to travel internationally. The Kremlin rejected the warrant as “null and void,” stressing that Moscow doesn’t recognize the court’s jurisdiction.

Putin’s trip resulted in a sharp rebuke from the U.S. Embassy in Vietnam, which said that “no country should give Putin a platform to promote his war of aggression and otherwise allow him to normalize his atrocities.” If Putin is allowed to travel freely it “could normalize Russia’s blatant violations of international law,” it said in a statement.

The U.S. and its allies have expressed growing concerns over a possible arms arrangement in which North Korea provides Russia with badly needed munitions for use in Ukraine in exchange for Russian economic assistance and technology transfers that could enhance the threat posed by Kim’s nuclear weapons and missile programs.

Both countries deny accusations of weapons transfers, which would violate multiple U.N. Security Council sanctions that Russia previously endorsed.

It is unlikely that Vietnam would supply significant quantities of weapons to Russia and risk the progress that it has made with NATO members on military equipment, particularly the U.S., said Ridzwan Rahmat, a Singapore-based analyst with the defense intelligence company Janes.

“I would imagine Vietnam wouldn’t want to take a risk, inviting the wrath of Western countries by supplying the Russians,” Rahmat said.

Hanoi and Moscow have had diplomatic relations since 1950, and this year marks 30 years of a treaty establishing “friendly relations” between Vietnam and Russia. Prashanth Parameswaran, a fellow with the Wilson Center’s Asia Program, said Vietnam is “reinforcing” that relationship even while it diversifies with newer partners.

Evidence of the long relationship and its influence can be seen in Vietnamese cities like the capital, where many Soviet-style apartment blocks are now dwarfed by skyscrapers. A statue of Vladimir Lenin, the founder of the Soviet Union, stands in a park where kids skateboard every evening. Many in the Communist Party’s top leadership in Vietnam studied in Soviet universities, including party chief Trong.

In an article written for Nhan Dan, the official newspaper of Vietnam’s Communist Party, Putin thanked “Vietnamese friends for their balanced position on the Ukrainian crisis” and hailed the country as a “strong supporter of a fair world order” based on international law, equality and geopolitical non-interference.

Vietnam’s pragmatic policy of “bamboo diplomacy” — a phrase coined by Trong referring to the plant’s flexibility, bending but not breaking in the shifting headwinds of global geopolitics — is being increasingly tested.

A manufacturing powerhouse and an increasingly important player in global supply chains, Vietnam hosted both U.S. President Joe Biden and Chinese leader Xi Jinping in 2023.

Putin’s visit is important for Hanoi on a diplomatic level, said Gould-Davies, the former ambassador.

“Perhaps for Vietnam it’s a matter of just showing that it’s able to maintain this very agile balance of its bamboo diplomacy,” he said. “Already in the course of a year they’ve hosted visits by the heads of state of the three most powerful countries in the world, which is pretty impressive.”

For Russia, the visit seems to have been more about optics than anything else, he said, as Moscow seeks to engage and influence other countries, particularly in the so-called Global South.

“Since the war began, Putin has not been able to travel much or very far, and he’s made very few trips beyond the countries of the former Soviet space,” he said.

Vietnam has remained neutral on Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. But neutrality is getting trickier,

Vietnam needs support from the U.S. to advance its economic ambitions and diversify its defense ties, Parameswaran said. “It has to carefully calibrate what it does with Russia in an environment of rising tensions between Washington and Moscow.”

Bilateral trade between Russia and Vietnam totaled $3.6 billion in 2023, compared to $171 billion with China and $111 billion with America.

Since the early 2000s, Russia has accounted for around 80% of Vietnam’s arms imports. This has been declining over the years due to Vietnamese attempts to diversify its supplies. But to entirely wean itself off Russia will take time, Giang said.

Given Putin’s international isolation, Vietnam is doing the Russian leader a “huge favor and may expect favors in return,” Andrew Goledzinowski, the Australian ambassador to Vietnam, wrote on social media platform X.

“Vietnam will always act in Vietnam’s interests and not anyone else’s,” he wrote.

AP writer David Rising in Bangkok contributed to this report.

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Croatia Sailing FAM trip

Travel Dates: 27 Jul - 3 Aug, 2024

Start / End: Split, Croatia to Dubrovnik, Croatia

Cost: $650 USD

• Tick another country off your bucket list as you sail up the spectacular Neretva River in a traditional wooden boat to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
• Taste some local olive oil at the local museum in Brac – the longest island in central Dalmatia – before exploring this gorgeous island at your own pace.
• Drop anchor in the middle of port towns like Hvar or Korcula and explore straight off the boat – one of the many benefits of small-ship cruising.

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• Starting in Delhi, take the metro train in a women’s-only care into Old Delhi, to experience how women travel around Delhi, before spending the day touring the city. 
• Then you’ll visit one of India’s most iconic sights, the Taj Mahal, inspired by the love of an exceptional woman. 
• Your journey also includes the remote countryside village of Tordi Garh, and the iconic city of Jaipur. 

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• Then it’s on to La Fortuna, where you’ll marvel at the iconic Arenal Volcano, and perhaps go for a dip at the nearby thermal hot springs.
• Then you’ll embark on incredible journeys through the Cloud Forest of Monteverde and the famous Manuel Antonio National Park, getting an up-close look at the incredible biodiversity of the region, before returning back to San Jose. 

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On the morning of Nov. 13, 2022,  four University of Idaho students were found dead, hacked to death, in their off-campus house. No one understood why, or who was responsible. Then, nearly a month later, the FBI began zeroing in on a suspect: Bryan Kohberger, a 28-year-old graduate student in criminology at a nearby university. Only now Kohberger, accompanied by his father, was driving home to Pennsylvania for the Christmas break. In his new book, “When the Night Comes Falling: A Requiem for the Idaho Student Murders,” author Howard Blum details the false moves that almost derailed Kohberger’s cross-country pursuit and capture.

The FBI surveillance team called it a “hatbox operation,” and the jargon was a bit of an anachronism. 

It was a throwback to an era when G-men sporting fedoras over their Brylcreemed hair would be out in force on the street to monitor a target’s every move.

Back then, a sea of hats would box the suspect in. These days, the watchers have a few more tricks at their disposal — undercover vehicles, surveillance vans, low-flying fixed-wing planes, and that’s just for starters. But the name has stuck.

And on the morning of Dec. 12, 2022 when Bryan Kohberger, now the chief suspect in the murder of four college students, headed off across country from Pullman, Wash., in his white Hyundai Elantra, his father, Michael, riding shotgun in the front seat, the surveillance plan was hatbox all the way.

The bureau’s commitment to stealth was no less meticulous.

For not only were the agents determined to keep their activity secret from the chief suspect in a quadruple homicide, but they were also set on making sure the local police had no inkling either.

They didn’t want to share that they had a “person of interest” in their sights until they had more evidence. 

But by the day’s end, the hatbox operation had turned into a colossal screwup. In their determination not to tip their hand to the Idaho taskforce, the federal surveillance team had decided not to pick up the Kohbergers until the car got well out of the area.

Only the FBI  had misjudged what route the travelers would be taking.

And the white Hyundai, along with its invaluable passengers, had seemingly vanished.

Frantic hours later they found the car in Loma, Colo.

The car was caught on the town’s automated license plate reader.

And with this sighting, the hatbox op was once again underway.

Yet it wasn’t long before the vigilant watchers were, yet again, in danger of losing their suspect.

Lights flashing, an Indiana sheriff had ordered the Kohbergers to the side of the road.

The FBI team was stunned. 

Had a sharp-thinking Indiana sheriff connected the white Hyundai to the car the Idaho police had announced they were searching for?

An arrest before the final incriminating pieces had been fitted into the puzzle could jeopardize the case they were building. 

There were tactical concerns, too. Was the suspect armed?

Was the sheriff’s deputy in danger of becoming another victim? A decision had to be made.

They decided to stand back. And to their immense relief, they watched as a routine traffic stop played out. Kohberger was chided for tailgating, and then the car pulled back onto the interstate. 

Yet only nine minutes later, an Indiana state trooper, lights flashing, directed the white car to pull over again. What indeed was going on?

Michael Kohberger wondered, too.

An overwhelming sense of dread, he later told relatives, had been weighing on him since he had flown out a few days earlier from Pennsylvania to accompany his son on the cross-country drive.

He began to suspect that there must be something purposeful guiding the rapid succession of police stops.

Michael braced himself for what would happen next.

“Please get your license and registration,” the trooper barked. He stood outside the passenger-side window and spoke across Michael as if he weren’t there.

“You were a little too close to the back of the semi,” the trooper continued, his voice now easier.

And after only another warning for tailgating, the trooper wished them a safe trip.

As the car pulled back on the road, the FBI watchers relaxed.

However implausible, the two consecutive traffic stops for tailgating were, they decided, simply what they seemed to be. 

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Michael also played back the encounters in his mind.

His son’s emotional temperature hadn’t appeared to have jumped a notch.

Later, he’d wonder to a relative, whether that was the demeanor of someone who had nothing to hide.

Or was it the icy calm of someone incapable of feeling fear?

Major Chris Paris of the Pennsylvania State Police had been handpicked by the FBI to command what would become known as the Great Trash Robbery.

For days, his team from Troop N had been covertly keeping an eye on Bryan Kohberger.

And now, December 27, the bureau gave the green light: they were ordered to steal Kohberger’s garbage.

The hope was that it would contain DNA that precisely matched the DNA recovered from the button of a knife sheath left at the scene of the murders.

It was nearly 4 a.m., and Trooper Brian Noll crept with a furtive concentration as he made his way to the garbage cans outside the Kohberger home.

He reached in,  grabbed the two plastic bags, and held them high in the air like trophies.

But then he had a sickening thought: I should have brought bags loaded with garbage to replace the ones I’m taking so Kohberger wouldn’t notice something was up.

What if Kohberger came out to deposit another bag?

But there was nothing he could do, so he clutched his pilfered treasures filled with detritus close to his chest, and made his way through the darkness to a waiting SUV.

The purloined garbage was shipped to a state police crime lab in Meridian, Idaho for analysis. 

Only the examination failed.

There was no match to the DNA on the knife sheath.

Had Kohberger, the knowledgeable criminal justice student, made sure any material containing his DNA had not gone in the family’s trash?

Or, had they been zeroing in on the wrong man?

Shaken, the technicians repeated the analysis.

And a startling discovery was made.

The DNA profile obtained from the trash belonged with a conclusive 99.9998% certainty to the father of the man whose DNA was on the knife sheath.

Michael Kohberger had branded his son a suspected killer.

“Dynamic entry” was only used to serve an arrest warrant when the threat matrix was Code Red.

The strategy was to charge in loud and strong, to not just surprise the suspect but to scare the living daylights out of him.

But any cop knew, if the target’s waiting inside ready to shoot, tactics wouldn’t count for much.

At just after midnight on December 30, a Pennsylvania State Police Emergency Response Team (SERT) assembled at the gray, barnlike Troop N barracks in Hazelton.

There were about 24 of them, and they were heavily armed.

The early morning arrest of Bryan Kohberger would be a Code Red op.

When arresting someone accused of butchering four people in cold blood, you didn’t take chances.

The team filled into a couple of specially outfitted Ford E-350 vans for the half-hour ride to Albrightsville.

But as the force approached the rural development dotted with playgrounds and volleyball courts where the Kohbergers lived, the lead van came to a sudden halt.

The entrance to the community was blocked by a pair of white boom gates.

A code had to be entered into a sentry box for the poles to rise.

And none of the heavily armed officers had the code.

A few of the tough-guy SERT team members wanted to plow through, but cooler heads prevailed.

As the force waited impatiently in the vans, a state trooper tracked down an acquaintance in the community, and the entry code was obtained. 

It was 1:30 in the morning, and they followed in a tight formation down a curling road until they reached Lamsden Drive.

It was so quiet it seemed as if the cocking of a single rifle would rouse people from their slumber. 

The team, however, took their positions without being noticed.

Then all hell broke loose. Windows shattered. Explosive charges boomed.

The SERT team stormed the white clapboard house.

There was no need to fire a shot.

They found Bryan Kohberger in the kitchen.

Despite the hour, he was awake.

He was wearing shorts, a T-shirt, and latex gloves. He had been scrupulously stuffing his personal trash into Ziploc plastic baggies, still convinced he was smarter than anyone else.

Someone grabbed him by the collar and heaved Kohberger up from his chair.

He seemed stunned as the handcuff were snapped onto his wrists.

The team commander insisted that a protective cordon be assembled around the suspect.

Just a precaution, he explained.

Trembling, handcuffed, surrounded by towering troopers, Bryan Kohberger was led down the driveway to the waiting van. 

Excerpted from “ When the Night Comes Falling: A Requiem for the Idaho Student Murders ,” by Howard Blum, to be published by HarperCollins on June 25.

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