This summer, stifling fighting words spoken by President Obama, at a town hall meeting in Atkinson, Ill. had the travel industry raising an eyebrow, and their voices, in hard-earned defense. In all fairness to the President, the context of the statement was a comparison of how on-line convenience has replaced the need for a real human. (A fact too many industries know far too well!) While it could be assumed the everyday internet traveler may think travel agents don’t exist any longer, substantial evidence proves otherwise.

CHANGE has always been a word that instills chills in companies and their personnel. The change that BTI The Travel Consultants is going through may be well beyond the chill factor.

Just off the Amalfi coast of Italy is one tiny and amazing island: Capri. With Mount Vesuvius in the background, Pompeii and Sorrento across the waters, and the blue grotto hiding under the island, Capri has enough to do to keep you entertained-- and not enough to obligate you over-achieve. On this particular trip, the Excelsior Parco was the hotel of choice, and it won’t disappoint! Classic white and blue décor, double-doors open onto balconies overlooking the winding cobblestone streets and the hospitality is warm and inviting. For the active traveler, there are boats and scooters to rent, there are ferries to Naples and Sorrento, from which you can choose a plethora of excursions. Word to the wise: know how to drive a scooter before you rent one, these Italian drivers will run you over. Two things you can’t miss: The Blue Grotto and Caprese Salad! Now, make sure you like Italian food if you’re going to choose Capri. We wouldn’t suggest the hamburgers! There’s also the Funicular, almost like a glass elevator, that takes you up the side of the island to Capri Center. That’s where all the shopping, cafes and bars are located, and the views are spectacular! You can also go up to the very top of the island, Anacapri, to get the very best views, as seen above on the left. Don’t forget, it’s an island! So relaxation and taking in sunshine are a must! But instead of a frozen margheritas on this island, we’d suggest a glass of wine. Cheers!