During KHM Travel Group’s Agent Advisory Board’s first trip together last month, 16 members of past and current Advisory Board immersed themselves in the diverse cultures of central Europe on an 8-day river cruise down the Danube. They joined our President Rick Zimmerman, and Director of Industry Affairs Bill Coyle on the Viking Ve. It was a memorable and rewarding trip, both in terms building knowledge about Europe, and in terms of sharing the group’s diverse range of business experience.

As they sailed from Budapest, Hungary to Passau, Germany, the group experienced the cultural richness and variety of Europe. It was made even more special by the holiday decorations and historic Christmas markets they enjoyed throughout the trip.

During a panoramic tour of Budapest, they were able to take in one of the continent’s most iconic cities, its elegant architecture and its many historic districts. They enjoyed the more intimate setting of the Slovakian capital of Bratislava, and its spectacular castle overlooking the Danube.

They also became acquainted with the City of Waltzes in romantic Vienna, and made their way through Austria’s charming countryside towns of Durnstein and Melk. The next day, they stepped into the fairytale world of Old Bohemia in Český Krumlov, a colorful, scenic town in the Czech Republic.

The cruise wrapped up in the baroque city of Passau, but then some of the group continued for a few post-sailing days of excursions. They had the option to visit Terezin, a historic fortress-turned-concentration camp in Germany, or one of the culturally vibrant cities of Munich and Prague!

Along the journey, Bill called Advisory Board meetings to discuss upcoming changes to KHM Travel’s Groups programs and policies, and to gather feedback so that we can continue to improve what we offer all agents.

“What surprised me the most was the diversity of the Advisory Board and their capabilities and willingness to share their knowledge to better the industry,” says Bill.

The current board was purposefully put together with a mix of geographic areas and sales levels. Many board members have reached Pinnacle level, but there are also Basecamp-level agents in the group.

On a ship of just 150 passengers, more than 30 were associated with KHM Travel Group, which created a very intimate onboard experience onboard.

“It really wasn’t the uptight, formal stereotype that many people have about river cruising,” Bill adds. “Being in a lively group, and visiting such interesting towns really made for a memorable experience.”

Thank you to each of the agents that joined us for our inaugural Advisory Board trip, and to Viking for hosting us! It was a pleasure experiencing a Danube river cruise with you, and strengthening our relationships to learn how we can better serve KHM Travel Agents.

For more photos from the trip, check out our Flickr album!

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Fill out the form on the right side of the screen or call 888-611-1220 to access our free Travel Agent Information Guide. You’ll be taking the first step towards reaching the Pinnacle Elite program!