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Priceline (Nasdaq: PCLN) is the online travel industry’s best company, as judged by the valuation currently accorded its publicly traded shares. Though Expedia (Nasdaq: EXPE) has a higher total market capitalization, Priceline shares trade at a multiple of trailing twelve months earnings that is nearly 50% higher than the same earnings multiple of Expedia. (PCLN ttm p/e = 36, EXPE ttm p/e = 23).

Thus, it would not be a stretch to say that PCLN is the darling of Wall Street when it comes to the online travel space and it is easy to see why. PCLN management has steered this company from bleeding red ink and the necessity of a reverse split five years ago to its place today as an international powerhouse in online travel. Shareholders who bought into PCLN when it first started making the turn towards profitability (about 5 years ago this month) have enjoyed 5 year gains of as much as 2000% (for those who purchased near the $6 lows in 2003).

Investors seeking gains of that kind in the online travel space will likely be disappointed if they invest in one of the big publicly traded players, including PCLN. Though PCLN management appears to be executing magnificently, the company’s stock price ($128 as of this writing) already reflects this near flawless execution. Its hard to imagine that investor’s could see the stock double over the next year or so, much less increase by a factor of three or four times. It is this realization that made us do a little digging to see if there are any companies out there that have PCLN type potential, but have yet to be recognized by the investment community as such. This brings us to the stock we believe investors should consider - a company called YTB International (YTBLA.PK) (hereinafter “YTB“).

YTB International is a rapidly growing company in the online travel space. While both PCLN and YTBLA operate in the online travel space, their core business models are so different that it makes most comparisons of their respective businesses less than meaningful - it would be like comparing apples with oranges. However, we see much commonality between the two companies from an investment standpoint - with PCLN as a model of the kind of stock price appreciation that could be achieved by a company in this space under the right circumstances. Simply put, we see potential for investors in YTB stock to earn the kind of return long term PCLN investors have enjoyed.

YTBLA is currently traded on the pink sheets and we have never recommended a stock that trades on the Pink Sheets before. However, YTBLA is current on all listing requirements, expects to be listed on the OTCBB within the next few weeks and we fully expect that the company will be listed on a national exchange before the end of this year. We have also never recommended a company with a multi level marketing model, though We have reviewed many of them over the years and can appreciate the wealth and value created by billion dollar companies like Avon (NYSE: AVN), Tupperware (NYSE: TUP), Herbalife (NYSE: HLF) and PrePaid Legal Services (NYSE: PPD). Despite these two factors, we are still recommending YTBLA because we believe they are poised to be a significant player in the online travel space and we further believe that investors in the stock at today’s prices could see Priceline type gains over the next few years and possibly sooner.

As mentioned previously, YTBLA’s business model is very different from PCLN and EXPE, each of whom operates a website that is designed to be a portal through which consumers book travel online. PCLN and EXPE spend millions of dollars in advertising each quarter to attract consumers to their websites in hopes that they will book travel thereby earning the company commissions or merchant revenues. YTB spends very little on advertising, relying instead on a network of “referral travel agents” (hereinafter “RTAs”) to book travel through their own private labeled YTB website. These referral travel agents pay YTB a start up fee (around $499), then a monthly fee ($49) to host their online booking engines. The referral travel agents then earn a commission on each booking, a small percentage of which is retained by YTB. Thus, YTB earns revenue each time a new RTA signs up, then earns monthly hosting fees and commissions from each RTA.

Thus, even though both companies operate in the online travel space, the business models and revenue generation engines are quite different. The more important recognition here, we believe, is that from an investor’s standpoint, YTB is a company that is in a very similar position to where PCLN found themselves five years ago. At that time, PCLN had a flagging stock price and many questions surrounding its business model, despite the fact that it was making obvious strides in its quest to turn the corner to profitability.

This is similar to the storyline we are see today for YTB, where the company has dealt with several bumps in the road, most of which were related to either its ability to manage very high volume growth in a very short time or attempts by competitors to try and slow the company’s march forward.

It appears that these bumps in the road have been unable to stop or even slow YTB’s momentum. The company’s most recent annual report shows staggering gains in bookings, commissions earned, revenue and steady gains in the number of RTA‘s who have signed up to participate. The company grew gross travel bookings more than 187% in 2007 over 2006 and saw the base of active RTA’s more than double. The company reported its third profitable quarter in a row, its first full year profit and it appears to have reached a point in its growth cycle where it has achieved the critical mass necessary to grow revenues significantly without a commensurate increase in expenses. We saw evidence in the recent 10K filing that indicated general and administrative expenses as a percentage of total revenue fell to only 26.1% in 2007 from 36.5% of revenue in 2006.

Another way we expect the company to grow margins is by earning higher percentage commissions. A very good indicator of this trend was reported in the recent 10K filing. The company reported an 84% gain in gross total bookings, which led to a 178% gain in gross total commissions received. As the company establishes itself as a high volume source of bookings for travel suppliers, the suppliers are willing to pay higher commissions and overrides. This accrues to the benefit of YTB as well as its RTA’s.

We see an opportunity for the company to further expand margins by building or buying its own wholesale business. By becoming the “merchant of record” for travel transactions, particularly lodging, YTB can expand on the traditional 10% commissions to instead earn effective rates in the 20 - 35% range. We note that it was a similar move into wholesale lodging reservations by Priceline in 2003 that allowed them to make the jump to profitability and that their acquisition of one of Europe’s largest lodging wholesalers that has been the catalyst for Priceline’s dramatic growth the last three years.

We believe further expansion of the company’s margins are possible as the company leverages the value of its network of 130,000+ active websites. The company’s cost to roll out additional product offerings through their RTA website channel is next to zero as is their risk. As such, we expect to see several new products offered through the RTA network in 2008, each of which could have a material impact on YTB’s financials.

In summary, we believe that YTB’s status as a pink sheets listed company that lacks Wall Street coverage or even main street attention has allowed the recent surge in its business to go unnoticed. The earnings acceleration and margin expansion simply have not been reflected in the stock price - as the stock has fallen more than 70% since the 2007 Q2 report of their first profitable quarter. With the stock currently hovering around the $1.65 per share range - we feel that the stock has the potential for exponential returns as investors become more aware of the YTB story and the company continues its domestic and international expansion. We believe the company is on the verge of a margin breakout that could propel the company to several periods of high double digit year over year earnings growth and that investors will ultimately accord YTB the kind of earnings multiple usually associated with such growth. As such, investors at today’s prices could be buying into the proverbial “ten bagger” or even better, enjoy returns like 2003 investors in the PCLN story, who earned 20x their money in less than five years. If YTB can sustain growth at the half the rate it grew in 2007, YTB investors at today’s prices could do even better than that.

Disclosure: Author has a long position in YTBLA.PK

John Gilliam

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This article has 182 comments:

  •  
    Apr 02 11:57 AM
    Thanks for the disclosure at the end. Clearly, this article is waaaayyyy tooooo biased for belief, being that the author has a long position in the stock. If this were an unbiased article, it might be believable.
  •  
    Apr 02 12:20 PM
    With zero knowledge of the travel industry, my small company (less than 15 employees) bought a YTB website just to save expenses on travel and to get the hotel and rental car commissions paid back to us. The good news is that I have also found out about perks, benefits, upgrades and deeply discounted special arrangements for travel professionals that I never knew existed.
  •  
    Apr 02 12:30 PM
    I ran across this company at a financial planner in Las Vegas about 13 months ago. The business model to book travel for clients is an excellent supplemental income source for people who have underfunded retirement accounts.
  •  
    Apr 02 12:47 PM
    When someone believes what they write enough to impliment their own advice, it is a pretty good indication that what they have written is factual and real. I would be concerned if someone recommends a position they are not willing to take themselves! Putting their "money where there mouth is" is the ultimate test of the credibility of someones position.
  •  
    Apr 02 12:54 PM
    There are also a lot of inconsistencies in the 10K. Sales of travel (and commiissions) did not increase proportionately with new RTAs. There was a huge attrition this year with nearly 60K RTAs dropping out of the program. In rough numbers last year they had 60K RTAs, they sold 139K sites this year and ended the year with 131K. That is a VERY significant attrition.
  •  
    Apr 02 12:59 PM
    As a YTB RTA I could not agree more. I have managed large corporations in my life but have never experienced anything like YTB. It will be a case that will be used in the major business schools in the future that study the merging of the Internet, home-based direct marketing and a product that lends itself to e-commerce. Thanks for your article.
  •  
    Apr 02 01:39 PM
    The numbers speak for themselves. You can say whatever you want about YTB but in a few years when we take over the Travel industry you will know who really is # 1 in travel.
  •  
    Apr 02 01:46 PM
    this is in NO way a true "travel site" ...It is nothing more than a pyramid scheme to benefit the "team leaders". The benefits are NOTHING more than what you can book yourself on expedia etc. The MAIN focus is PUSH, PUSH, PUSH to sign up new people so you dont have to pay monthly and get a slice of their "sign up action"
    A real shame.
  •  
    Apr 02 01:54 PM
    I recently became a YourTravelBiz associate and am very impressed by the business model. I participated to a degree when Citicorp and Sanford Weill endorsed this model by purchasing Primerica Financial Services. It's exciting to help other businesspeople help themselves, and Wall Street finds a loyal, motivated sales force hard to ignore!
  •  
    Apr 02 01:55 PM
    Direct Selling Association Approves YTB International as New Member Company

    WOOD RIVER, Ill., Sept. 24 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- YTB International, Inc. (OTC Pink Sheets: YTBLA) ('YTB' or the 'Company'), a provider of Internet-based travel booking services for travel agencies and home-based independent representatives in the United States, today announced that the Direct Selling Association ('DSA') has approved its application for active membership in the organization.

    YTB completed a one-year pending period required for full membership in the association. During this time, the Company's marketing and business plans were reviewed to ensure full compliance with all provisions established by DSA's Code of Ethics. YTB joins the elite ranks of DSA's more than 220 active and pending member companies in the United States.

    DSA is the national trade association representing companies that manufacture and sell products and services sold directly to consumers, primarily through an independent contractor sales force. Its mission is 'to protect, serve and promote the effectiveness of member companies and the independent business people they represent. To ensure that the marketing by member companies of products and/or the direct sales opportunity is conducted with the highest level of business ethics and service to consumers.' Each DSA member company pledges to abide by the Code of Ethics' standards and procedures as a condition of admission and continuing membership in DSA. This Code of Ethics speaks to both the consumer and the seller, and ensures that member companies will make no statements or promises that might mislead either consumers or prospective sales people. The DSA Code of Ethics expressly prohibits pyramid schemes, deceptive or unlawful consumer or recruiting practices, misrepresentation of earning or sales potential, inventory loading and unreasonable entrance fees.

    Scott Tomer, CEO of YTB International, stated, 'We are proud to have been granted membership in the DSA. Our acceptance further validates the strict internal business practice standards to which we hold ourselves. Our Company is committed to maintaining these high standards, as well as those set by the DSA.'

    About DSA

    DSA is the national trade association of the leading firms that manufacture and distribute goods and services sold directly to consumers. Among its more than 220 active and pending members are companies selling both via a party-plan method and in the traditional person-to-person style. In 2006, U.S. direct sales were more than $32 billion with more than 15.2 million direct sellers nationwide. The vast majority are independent business people 'micro-entrepreneurs' whose purpose is to sell the product/service of the company they voluntarily choose to represent. Approximately 90 percent of direct sellers operate their business part-time. To find out more about DSA please visit dsa.org.

    About YTB International

    YTB International, Inc. provides Internet-based travel booking services for travel agencies and home-based independent representatives in the United States, Puerto Rico, and the US Virgin Islands. It operates through three subsidiaries: YourTravelBiz.com, Inc., YTB Travel Network, Inc., and REZconnect Technologies, Inc. YourTravelBiz.com division focuses on marketing online travel agencies through a nationwide network of independent business people, known as 'Reps.' YTB Travel Network division establishes and maintains travel vendor relationships, books travel transactions of online travel agents (RTAs, now numbering over 120,000), collects travel commissions and pays sales commissions. Each RTA sells travel through a personalized Internet-based travel website. The REZconnect Technologies division operates as a travel vendor relationship management company and offers franchises of brick and mortar travel agencies.

    Statements about the Company's future expectations, including future revenues and earnings, and all other statements in this press release other than historical facts are 'forward-looking statements' within the meaning of Section 27A of the Securities Act of 1933, Section 21E of the Securities Exchange of 1934, and as that term is defined in the Private Litigation Reform Act of 1995. Such forward-looking statements involve risks and uncertainties and are subject to change at any time, and the Company's actual results could differ materially from expected results. The Company undertakes no obligation to update forward-looking statements to reflect subsequently occurring events or circumstances.

    This document is available on the KCSA Worldwide Website at kcsa.com. Investor Contacts: Garth Russell / Yemi Rose KCSA Worldwide 212-896-1250 / 212-896-1233


    Source: PR Newswire (September 24, 2007 - 7:02 AM EST)

  •  
    Apr 02 02:00 PM
    What do you mean not a true travel site? Ok,you create a "Not A True Travel Site" and sale millions of dollars in travel. You anti MLM people blow my mind. The model works! Yes it takes alot of people to work. More people mean more travel sold. Together we all earn more. Yes "Leaders" make the most money. Isn't that the way it is in any business are job. He or She who works the hardest and becomes a LEADER makes the most. YTB pays every bill in my house and I joined less than a year ago. And you are right... I pushed, pushed, pushed! If you sit on you, you know what, you don't get results. Anyway I have to go, I got to show somebody else YTB, Push, Push , Push, $$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$$... YTB 4 Life
  •  
    Apr 02 02:18 PM
    As an RTA YTB brings you the perfect opportunity to transform your life through combining the fun of travel with the speed of the Internet, multiplied by the power of referral marketing to provide YOU with the ultimate home-based travel business solution.
  •  
    Apr 02 02:30 PM
    All I can say is WOW!! As a brand new RTA with YTB, to see this ongoing growth is very very nice for me that the company is for real and that I can have a real part of it.
  •  
    Apr 02 02:42 PM
    Can you guys try and pump this stock any harder?
  •  
    Apr 02 02:43 PM
    YTB is the best thing I personally have ever been envolved in, it's power at your fingertips...
  •  
    Apr 02 02:51 PM
    Anyone can say whatever they want, however figures never lie. The price to participate in this business is absolutely riduculous. The potential is huge; the timing tremendous; the business model incredible. Talk about being in the right place at the right time -- this is it!
  •  
    Apr 02 03:04 PM
    YTB is a life saver. It really makes me laugh when I read the comments from pessimistic people who are negative towards YTB. It blows my mind that anyone could possibly not understand that traditional Corporate America is the biggest Pyramid Scheme of all, without any security whatsoever. The people that do not get involved with YTB, or do get involved and quit, will look back one day, and realize that they missed out on a golden opportunity. YTB is here to stay, will be the largest travel company in the world, and will be a household name in 2 years. YTB has given me a chance at a better life, security, and an opportunity of a lifetime. I was making six figures as a Sales Rep in the New Home Builder Industry (Corporate America - so much for security). After extensive research, I am happy to say that the Travel Industry is the most secure Industry to be in. Additionally, being a part of YTB, gives me more security. I look forward to being financially free & traveling the world with my family, instead of being a slave to the clock, and being subjected to the Pyramid Scheme of Corporate America. Let's see, work 30 years for a company, and hope that you get a raise & promotion once in awhile. Yea, right!
  •  
    Apr 02 03:06 PM
    Didn't Royal Caribbean stop supplying YTB with their cruise product because they claimed that YTB was one of the "card mill" companies?
  •  
    Apr 02 03:08 PM
    I could not DISAGREE with you more, In Biz!!! I used Priceline, Expedia, Travelocity, etc. and got reasonable prices but not once did I receive a percentage of the commission check paid to those companies on my trips. As a YTB RTA, when I or any of my family and friends book trips on my page, I get a CHECK!

    The pseudonym - in biz indicates to me that you are in some type of business so it would seem to me that you would recognize a good business deal when you see it. My site is just as viewable and easy to access as any of those commercial sites I list above and the prices are very competitive if not cheaper. Now if I have a site like this and show it to my friends and family, why would they decide to book on the commercial site instead, especially if mine is cheaper?

    You are welcomed to visit the site for yourself. I just flew back home from Atlanta, GA. While I was standing in line with my e-ticket I had a question about something and happened to show the ticket to a fellow standing in line. He took a look at my ticket and the first thing he said was "wow - this is a really cheap ticket." I purchased that round trip on my site and shortly after I got home, I received a check in the mail for commission on that trip as well as other trips that friends had purchased on my site. Not bad for as you put it "not a true travel site" Huh?!!!
  •  
    Apr 02 03:10 PM
    I found a link to a bit about the Royal Caribbean story and also it includes a look at the "other side of the story" - as with anything, be sure to do the research before plunking down your cash and thinking that you will get rich quick - it usually doesn't happen...
    www.chicagotribune.com...
  •  
    Apr 02 03:27 PM
    Watch out, here we go again! The last time someone like this author (who is long on the stock) started hyping YTB on the internet, it soared from a dollar to $18 (pre-split). Shortly thereafter it came crashing back down to a buck, which was probably the appropriate valuation in the first place.

    A lot of naive YTB reps, many of whom didn't know a P/E ratio from a palm tree, got swept up in the frenzy and lost their hard-earned investment.

    I'm glad to see YTB beginning to build travel bookings. When the average RTA actually earns marginally more in TRAVEL COMMISSIONS (without recruiting) than the $50/month cost of the travel portal, then this will be viable long-term business model and the high attrition may stop.

    Until then, I'm putting my energies into building with a product-driven company. At SendOutSpecialCards.co... customers voluntarily spend about $50/month on a product that makes their contacts feel valued and explodes their business referrals. The result: steady growth, customer retention and long-term residuals.
  •  
    Apr 02 03:32 PM
    The business model works if you do, its that simple! The fact of the matter is YTB has an extremely high retention rate compared to other mlm business models because there is real value in its products, ie online travel booking engine.

    Nearly 80% of travelers in the US book online and most think that getting paid a commission to book their own travel is a good business plan. This idea works for individuals as well as small businesses. Based on recent activity with the stock I would say that alot of investors agree.

    If you want to learn more about the business model you can browse here to find out. ybitravel.biz
  •  
    Apr 02 03:44 PM
    For those of you that commented on Royal Caribbean dropping YTB, that was the company that created a tiny "bump in the road" for YTB. Like the article stated, some companies don't like the YTB success and tried to slow their growth. All to no avail!!!!
  •  
    Apr 02 04:08 PM
    This is one of the most obvious pump and dump articles I've ever seen. YTB lost the ability to book Royal Caribbean, Celebrity and Azamara cruises, as well as Perillo Tours last year because YTB is considered a "card mill". For the same reason, IATA pulled their IATA number used to make bookings with other suppliers. Fortunately for YTB, they have an ARC number they are using instead.

    73.4% of YTB revenues came from the sale of travel web sites to suckers that think they are going to get rich. Just how many travel website does this world need anyway? Only 14.5% of their revenue came from actual travel commissions.

    If you look at the their sales of web sites, you'll see they signed up 139,239 people last year. Add that to the 59,736 they had at the end of 2006, and if everyone was making money, they would have 198,975 sites active at the end of 2007. However, they only have 131,065. That means 67,910 people cut there losses and gave up on YTB.

    Of the $80 million in marketing commissions that were paid out, $45 million went to the 163 directors. So, as with any pyramid scheme, the people at the top get rewarded, and those at the bottom get the shaft.

    If you devide the travel commissions paid by YTB by the number of active sites at the end of the year, you get an average of about $102.00 per site. Since they pay 49.95 per month, that is an average loss of about $500 per site. At that rate, it won't take long for more to bail out. Even if you divide the amount by those active at the end of 2006, it's only $225 per year, still a loss of $375 per site. Sure seems like a great business model to me!

    If you want to be a travel agent, there are much better ways to do this. Many host agencies provide a website just like YTBs at no fee whatsoever, and charge nothing to join. Further, they give 80% of the commission earned, not 60%. So, tell me again why YTB is such a good deal? Give me a break.

    I was wondering why the stock suddenly started jumping. It turns out it is because someone was buying ahead of this pump-up article. Personally, I think I should forward this to stocklemon.com. I'll bet they have a field day with it.
  •  
    Apr 02 04:50 PM
    You know you are in the right place and time when the competition comes in to try and dump on your company! Keep up the good work fellas!
  •  
    Apr 02 05:15 PM
    There are pros and cons to every business and to every business model. To those who point out the RTA churn, I would suggest these are people who chose not to work the opportunity. Even though the cost of entry and monthly overhead is small, you still have to work at anything to make it a viable business. The truest thing I ever heard about YTB is that it's simple, but it's not easy.

    To those who say the people at the top are the ones getting rich, that's true, too. But the beauty of the YTB model is anyone can exceed the earnings of the person who brought them into the business through their own diligence--and it happens every day.

    As for Royal Caribbean, it's tough to understand how a company like YTB that sells millions of dollars in travel and is the largest booker of Carnival cruises in the US is a card mill. And one would think that IATA would like 130,000 RTA's to pay individual memberships rather than being grouped under YTB's collective IATA number.

    I would also suggest that YTB understands that RTA's need to sell more travel; that's why the company is now placing an emphasis on travel training to assist the sales effort. I would agree with the author's assertion that the comany has reached a "critical mass" where the percentage of revenue for recruiting vs. travel will start to tip.

    I can tell you after a year in the business that I have made back more than my original investment, I don't have to pay $49.95 monthly because I've enlisted more than six people and when anyone books travel on my or any other YTB site, the travel is fulfilled and there are no issues. I can't speak to what will happen to the stock but it seems to me this company is well run, generates enthusiasm and the money earned by people who are embracing the business opportunity is making a difference for them and for their families. YTB bashers--keep your powder dry. Time will tell...
  •  
    Apr 02 05:37 PM
    I have been in the business less than two months and have brought in 8 RTA's and 30 IMR's. I don't pay for my monthly lic. fee. and have sold travel on my site as well. The issue at hand is people come into the business like an employee and not a business owner and don't work the business and as a result they fail. You get out what you put in. Work hard and you'll be successful......
  •  
    Apr 02 05:57 PM
    This little company is rapidly growing its travel revenue and may well continue to do so against the big guys because of its value proposition. Plus all the "referring agents" are also their own customers for travel as well as selling travel on the site they purchase. Ths stock did very well in the last run and offered big gains. Perhaps that may occur again.
  •  
    Apr 02 06:03 PM
    No matter who you are, the more you are successful the more you come under fire. People can say anything they want on the web, especially about YTB. I would venture to say that nearly all the naysayers have ever stepped foot in the doors of YTB even though they open them to anyone who wants to come and see. I saw what was being said about YTB prior to joining and I knew that there are two sides to all stories. I mean, look at what is said about Wal-Mart. Do you still shop there? Ignorance is okay if you just don't know. Advertising it on the net is just silly. YTB is growing rapidly and honestly. Naturally there is competition out there that wants to bring it down. Some people will say and do anything to do that so just do yourself a favor and check it out for yourself. Don't let someone else's ignorance become yours.

    YTB's business model is different than the conventional model so that is the main thing that gets attacked. Again, it's ignorance. I have a feeling that there will those out there saying ignorant things now and will feel pretty silly down the road realizing they advertised the ignorance.
  •  
    IT IS SAD TO HEAR THE CYNICS AND SKEPTICS. I WOULD DARE BET THAT THEY DID NOT GET RICH FROM THE MICROSOFT OR YAHOO BOOM EITHER BECAUSE NEGATIVITY KEEPS THEM BROKE.

    YOU CANNOT STOP A MARKET SHIFT LADIES AND GENTLEMEN AND YOU CANNOT STOP THE FACT THAT INTERNET TRAVEL IS TAKING OVER AND THAT YTB IS THE PERFECT OPP. FOR EVERYBODY THAT DESERVES A PIECE OF IT...THE ONLY THING SKETICS DESERVE IS A JOB---WHICH STANDS FOR "JUST OVER BROKE" BECAUSE THEY NEVER BELIEVE ENOUGH IN ANYTHING ACCEPT WORKING FOR SOMEONE ELSE TO MAKE THE OTHER PERSON WEALTHY.
    EVERY BUSINESS THAT USES THE FRANCHISE MODEL SOLD MORE IN FRANCHISE FEES IN THE BEGINNING--BUT THE PRODUCT SALES CAUGHT UP...PUT YOUR BIAS ASIDE AND READ THE LATEST YTB PRESS RELEASE FINANCIAL REPORT FOR 2007. THE TRAVEL BOOKINGS ARE CATCHING UP. SO SOME FRANCHISE RESTAURANTS SELL MORE FOOD THAN OTHERS--DOES THAT MAKE THE FRANCHISE CONCEPT A SCAM ALSO? NO--SOME RTA'S ARE BETTER AT SELLING TRAVEL THAN OTHERS, SO WHAT!!

    IN TIME ALL OF YOU SKEPTICS WILL REALIZE THAT ONCE AGAIN YOU HAVE MISSED OUT ON A MARKET SHIFT. BUT THAT IS WHAT MAKES THE SKEPTICS SPECIAL--WE NEED PEOPLE TO KEEP THEIR JOBS ANYWAY OR LIFE WOULD BE BORING FOR THOSE OF US WITH VISION.

    IF YOU WERE SMART YOU WOULD HAVE INVESTED EVEN FOR THE "HYPE" AS YOU CALL IT. BUT NOBODY EVER GETS RICH BEING SCARED DO THEY? AND WHAT IT BOILS DOWN OT IS THAT YOU ARE ALL AFRAID TO TAKE A CHANCE AND THAT YOU DO NOT BELIEVE THAT YOU ARE WORTH A $500.00 CHANCE AT A GREAT BUSINESS WITH A GREAT COMPANY.

    EVEN BARRY DILLER WITH EXPEDIA HAD HIS OPPONENTS. DID THAT STOP HIM? EVEN WAL-MART HAS THEIRS. DOES THAT STOP THEM? MICROSOFT SUED OVER WINDOWS BUT MOST OF US STILL USE THAT PROGRAM DAILY. WAKE UP AND SMELL THE COFFEE PEOPLE..


    GOD BLESS THE TOMER FAMILY AND YTB...AND GOD BLESS THE SKETICS TOO---YOU ALL REALLY NEED HIS HELP AND A LESSON IN FAITH!!



  •  
    Apr 02 06:44 PM
    Whenever anything good happens there are those that will take shots at it.

    Here we are, in modern times, where we have set foot on the moon, (ops – better watch my words – there are people who still think the earth is flat) broke the sound barrier, communicate through air with the most modern technology and still people will try to invalidate it.

    Even the well educated are not off the hook from such lack of knowledge and ignorant responses. The world is in change and YTB Just may be ahead of the curve!

  •  
    Apr 02 07:03 PM
    WOW...incredible. I'm a YTBer and I've made thousands of dollars a month part-time. I'm also an associate broker in real estate and my clients love and join YTB every month. Some won't, some will....SO WHAT. All you negative people...keep doing whatcha' doin' and keep gettin' what you're getting. If everyone saw an opportunity, we would not have an opportunity. Just remember, what you put out, you will get back 3 fold. Someone, somewhere may crush your dreams one day like you're trying to do with the POSITIVE folks here. May you have the courage and the strength to prevail and REMEMBER how you did NOT help anyone with your negative press here. All YTBers, NEVER, EVER QUIT and may you NOT stay in the circle of sameness and blaze your trail!
  •  
    Apr 02 07:14 PM
    if YTB 'works' then how come 246,837 of the 264k reps not receive a dime last year? Don't shoot the messenger, look at your own reports. A 6th grader can read it.
  •  
    Apr 02 07:51 PM
    Great article John!! Finally...the word is getting out. This is what we've been saying for a year.
  •  
    Apr 02 08:09 PM
    SendOutCards? Give me a break. That's a chump-change company. Anyone who disparrages YTB or favors another MLM over YTB is simply uninformed. YTB sells online travel websites. The more websites the more travel sold for YTB. It's that simple. If you choose to assist YTB in reaching their inevitable position of dominating, DOMINATING, the travel industry, then you'll be compensated beyond your dreams. Just ask any mlm-er who claims to have a better comp plan how many 1 million dollar bonuses they've paid out. Anyway, as it should be with anything, those who don't work don't get paid. Simple.
  •  
    Apr 02 08:31 PM
    I have been in YTB for less then a year. I got into the business to save money on travel and to be able to write that travel off on my taxes. I now travel more and talk to people while I am traveling for less. I have a nice size team and it continues to grow every week. If you have ever considered the above perks for yourself and wanted to get into the game then please check out what YTB has to offer. You can start your business today by going to www.racetorelaxtravel..... I will help you grow your business and yes as you can see, you need to plug your business anytime you can. The business model works so why not get started today. Make money and travel. I was sold the day I saw this and now I am starting to see some nice cash rooling in.
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    Apr 02 08:38 PM
    I believe in the integrity of the leaders and company. YTB has a basic business model that will allow us to continue to grow. Thanks for recognizing the power of our business model.
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    Apr 02 08:56 PM
    This company has integrity and credibility and a proven track record. An RTA can sell travel, build a team, and create passive income creatively. Do your homework; go to our website and take a look.
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    Apr 02 09:35 PM
    What a great week it has been for YTB. In every company there are those who give up and walk away or daydreamers who wait for their business to magically grow. But for those of us who are determined to make it we will succeed.
    My team and I are slowly but surely building our businesses, no regrets at all! YTB is here to stay! Look out world! You tried to knock us out and it didn't work!!
    gailsvacationandtravel...
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    Apr 02 10:15 PM
    As a Financial advisor I have been following the stock for a couple years and have friends that are in YTB. Many of these friends have jumped from one MLM to another and have made money because they get in first. When they asked my opinion on the stock I told them to be careful due to the lack of volume and huge spread between the bid and ask. They bought the stock around $2.00 and it sat there for many months before exploding to $18.00 in a short time. Some got out and others got crushed when the bottom dropped out and the stock dropped back to $1.00. I am still weary of these type of companies, especially when the CEO is selling large amounts of stock and on the other hand is stating how great of a company it is. I personally don't care what type of company it is, I just want to know if I can make money trading the stock. I had alerts on the volume traded and stock price that alerted me something was up and I jumped in with multiple buys starting at $1.02-$1.55. This stock can move quick up or down, so I will be taking some profit off the table and hold onto a few shares. Let's hope Mr. CEO doesn't sell stock to buy back any sentimental property he might of sold in an earlier life (next time come up with a better excuse please).
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    Apr 02 11:15 PM
    To YTB hype, to answer your statement on why that many in YTB haven't received a check in 07 is very easily explainable.

    1. They just joined the company (notice the large growth spurt at the end of 07!

    2. They haven't yet done anything yet.

    I joined YTB in mid Aug 07 and have been receiving checks for both site sales and travel! I know the integrity of YTB and the founders, for I had a chance to meet and talk with them personally.

    I have never in my life been in a company where those in the upline do whatever it takes to help you succeed! They (literally speaking)bend over backwards! You will never see integrity like this at AmWay! not to mention... There has NEVER been another company like this that offers it's people a healthcare and life insurance package!!!

    Those who don't understand YTB, probably never will.

    For those who aren't yet a part of YTB, I invite you to check out my website! genesglobaltravel.com
    View the COMP PLAN

    If it makes busines sense to you... contact me for more info!
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    Apr 02 11:28 PM
    He sold that property to fund the start of YTB. He then bought it back, and now opens it's doors to those in YTB. Learn the truth before you go rambling off at the mouth about something you know absolutely nothing about.

    If you know anything about stocks, you would have been following them closely. If you did, you would have noticed that the whole stock market has been losing money. Since YTB stock is PUBLICLY traded, it falls victim of whatever the stock market does even more so than if it was privately owned stock. Don't judge a company by it's stocks. There are plenty of respectable companies out there with low stocks... even no stocks at all.
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    I just returned from a 4 hour brainstorm session with someone who had hired me to help them expand thier online business. I'm not a YTB member but I've been looking at it so I can't truly comment on YTB. But I will say that I do agree with many of the YTBer's comments about putting in the effort.

    I've built several successful online businesses over the past 8 years, the main one being www.KidMusic.com by working a lot of long hours. It hasn't been easy and it didn't happen over night.

    The person who paid me to tell them how to do something similar in a totally different online business market was highly dissapointed when I began to lay out a business plan for them. They were dissapointed because it seemed like it wouldn't happen fast enough and would take too much work.

    Well, the nuts and bolts of it is that to be successful, it is a bunch of work. I don't care if your starting your own business, joining a legitimate MLM or trying to move up the corprate ladder it's always a bunch of work. Success almost always comes to the folks that are willing to put in the effort. It also almost never comes to the folks that think that it should happen overnight.

    If you join just to save some money on travel then that should be a reasonable reason if you travel enough to justify it. But if you join this, or any business, to become wealthy then expect to put in a lot of effort. But if you don't put in the effort and don't make any money then don't complain because you got out of it what you put into it.

    I'd have to say that we see very similar numbers among the dealers that sell our products and we aren't even an MLM. Out of 100 some dealers that register to sell our products we may get one or two dealers that sell most of the volume. Most people just don't want to work hard, they want it to happen overnight with no effort, and when it doesn't happen they quit and say IT didn't work. Well, IT can work, they just didn't work it.

    The person I met with is already averaging, after only 3 months in business, about $75 per hour of actual work. But what she said to me is that she wants to make a six figure income without having to actually work. It's sad because she's actually got a super business model going. From my perspective it would be very successful if she would put the time in for a few years she'd get that six figure income.

    To bad she doesn't really want to work that hard.

    Do something, Do it consistenly, until after several years your suddenly an overnight success. Or at least that's what your friends will think.
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    Life is what you make it, if you can't make it in corporate America, you probably wont make it having your own business either. It comes down to who really wants to be rich and who just likes to say they want to be rich. I know people who sell Primerica, Pre-paid Legal, Real Estate, and Travel. The ones that are sucessful all have the same attitude and work ethic. The ones that are not all have excuses. Bottom Line is the model for all these companies work, but you have to work the system. So stop blaming the company for the failures of lazy people being group in with real go getters, BLAME THE INDIVIDUAL!!!! arrivestayleave.com
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    Apr 03 01:09 AM
    Hello world,

    Despite all the negativity. Let me just say this. No matter what it is in life that you want to do, there is always, always going to be someone there to tell you that you are crazy and that it will never work.

    You have been told you will never be a doctor, you will never be an attorney, you will never be a firefighter, you will never be a police officer, you will never be a proffessional athelete, etc.

    But did those people stop you from being what you wanted to be or doing what it is you wanted to do in life? NO!

    All I need to know from you is if you believe the glass is half full instead of half empty and you want to be a part of the next Microsoft in the making and work with a company you can learn to believe in and work with someone you can learn to trust, then go to my website and call me. Our TEAM will help you be successful in this phenomenal company if you are willing to go to work for youself just as you may work for someone else right now.

    Good luck and God bless you all!
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    Apr 03 01:17 AM
    Over 131,000 people believe in YTB RIGHT NOW! Based on past growth, it looks like over 260,000 will believe in YTB by the end of 2008.

    Last I checked, it cost quite a bit of money to start a business.
    Then it usually takes a few years to earn a profit, if ever. Does anyone know someone who lost a lot of money in traditional business? Exactly.

    Let's get real. $450 bucks to have an opportunity to start your own business, in the largest industry in the world. $450 bucks is chump change. Then it's $50 bucks a month until you enroll 6 others. So what? $50 a month for overhead is chump change! EVERYBODY PAYS MORE THAN $50 A MONTH FOR CABLE TV, WITH NO OPPORTUNITY TO EARN INCOME.

    I really, really believe that ALL OF THE NEGATIVE COMMENTS about
    YTB are mainly from these 4 sources:

    1. Traditional Travel Agents/Companies who know that their way of
    doing business is diminishing due to the overall market shift of
    internet travel sites in general. To be fair, I am sure that there
    will always be some people who will still use traditional travel
    companies, such as people that don't use the internet, etc.

    2. Imitation Companies such as Traverus, etc. WHO wish they were
    in YTB's position, and are hoping & praying that somehow YTB
    fails. That way, they can try to capitalize for theirselves.

    3. Pessimistic people who always see 'the glass as half-empty',
    which is a reflection of their 'empty life'.

    4. People who automatically believe that you're handing them
    'Fool's Gold', when you are handing them Real Gold! You know
    who they are, the ones that always say "if it's too good to be
    true, then it's not true"! Whatever. These are the same people
    who mocked Thomas Edison. I'm glad he didn't listen. Aren't you?


    OF COURSE, MOST OF THE MONEY IS MADE BY THE DIRECTORS
    "WHO ARE THE LEADERS"! Last I checked, most of the money in any company/industry is made by the leaders. That's the way it's supposed to be. That's the incentive to be a leader. Make money.

    I AM EXTREMELY GLAD THAT EVERYONE DOES NOT WANT TO JOIN YTB, SO I CAN BE THE ONE THAT ENROLLS THEIR FRIENDS & FAMILY.

    Furthermore, every type of industry contains Sales Professionals. I can assure you, that the vast majority of elite Sales Professionals have heard of Zig Ziglar. Zig Ziglar says 'that the only people that don't make it in Network Marketing, are the people that quit'. I was exposed to Zig Ziglar in the New Home Building Industry. For many years, I worked on Straight Commission = 2% of Gross. Sink or Swim. No salary. YTB is the same way. You have to work it. There is no such thing as get rich quick. However, there is such a thing as 'get rich quicker than you was going to by working for Corporate America only'.

    To everyone in YTB:

    Do not ever let anyone ever steal your dream. Not spouses, not family members, not friends, and definitely not some losers on the internet. Building wealth is not easy, otherwise, everyone would be wealthy.

    No matter how long it takes, stay focused, stay committed, and one day you will achieve your dreams.

    Read this book: Think & Grow Rich. By Napoleon Hill.

    Folks, let's stay on the offense & grow, and let the naysayers wallow in their miserable opinions. These naysayers are the same
    type of people as the 3 friends of Bill Gates, who DID NOT invest
    in Microsoft at the beginning.

    At the end of it all, you are actually investing in yourself. I believe in myself, and I believe in YTB. I can assure you that there will be
    a day that the majority of the people who refused to join YTB with you, will contact you and join up. It's happening to me now, including one good buddy, who not long ago, looked over at me, and
    said "If it's too good to be true, it's not true"! He joined YTB yesterday. Why? He finally did his research.
  •  
    Vacation - Have Fun - Make Money!

    Turn your Vacations into Donations!

    Write me and Find out How - Travel@BookWithMarilyn...
  •  
    Apr 03 01:23 AM
    Go to niloc.paradisenetwork.... and understand what you are talking about. I agree with those in the know. And those in the know understand who YTB is and what they are not. A little common sense goes a long way... when was the last time you've read about a publicly traded "illegal pyramid scheme"? Look at the real numbers and where this company has come from. Really; my experience has proven anyone who projects a negative connotation at companies who distribute their products or services via a Network Marketing distribution model are those who believe they can't make it in one. Or, they once were in one that didn't meet their expectations or were truly misrepresented. Both are legitimate disappointments - but that doesn't make Network Marketing tabu. That way of thinking is narrow minded and quite frankly, antiquated. Robert Metcalfe (a founder of 3M, the company that brought us the Palm Pilot) developed Metcalfe's Law of Networks. It talks about ones economic value being the square of the number of people in your "NETWORK"... Look folks, we are all a part of some kind of NETWORK. The difference between you and those in a Network Marketing model is one of you gets paid... And it's not you. Get the whole story, study the model and I believe you will come to the same conclusion that over 140,000 others have (and growing strong). I'm not sure what it takes to be considered a "real travel company" but paying $1,300,000.00 a month in "TRAVEL" COMMISSIONS is a great start - wouldn't you agree?? YTB is not a perfect company, name one that is... It is however, an emerging force and the numbers always tell the truth. End of conversation.
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    Apr 03 07:36 AM
    The disclosure is required for him to do!!! facts are facts and his facts are truly correct... The total count of RTA's is expected ti hit One Million by 2010... That will increase the business #'s 10 fold. This company could be selling 5 billion in travel by then... that would make them The #1 travel provider in the world. Now if PCLN is trading at $128 a share and we over take them and expedia - beacuse we will... just think of what this stock of $2.25 could be more by 2010... Close your eyes.... and dream 1000 shares your have $128,000 .... 10,000 shares you have 1.3 million - you getting the picture now.... this thing is going to take off!!!! Like a california wild fire.

    I welcome any new lookers of the business to check my website out - I am based out of Canada but have a great upline in The USA... every Canadian in YTB does - since we just opened in FEB here.

    Truly amazing and a fresh breathe of air - Strting dream like I did when I was 15 yr old boy again...

    Jump on Board - The water is fine here

    ytb.com/aaatravelsolut...
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    Apr 03 10:05 AM
    YTB has a $6,000 COMMISSION GUARANTEE
    we invested a total of $1200 and got a $4800 profit in 12 months

    thats a 400% return in 12 months....
    Its a GUARANTEE!!!!

    I did it and yep i made a total of $6000 in 12 months
    It was so easy,, you just pass out 25 magazines a month!!!

    Thanks YTB
    Note: YTB offers many other things but this is the part that we liked and DID!
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    Apr 03 10:08 AM
    There are always only a small majority of people who can stand up to the pressure. Those who are destined to do great things in their lives tend to always think about others first. This is what YTB has been like for us, and those who choose to join us. It's not about how many reps we can sponsor; that's what the typical business world does not understand. For once, a company does the Golden Rule without fail, treats people like they deserved to be treated regardless of background or ethnicity, and will never turn it's back on anyone who truly wants to change they decisions they make for their lives.

    YTB is a company concerned more about the spirit of a nation, it's people, and the people's ability to achieve the American dream that so many corporations have take away. That's our story after so many other companies have failed us, promised and not delivered, and YTB is a true breath of fresh air for those who have not been poisoned by the pains of failure. Get up and try again...this is it.
    steps2ytbsuccess.info
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    Apr 03 10:14 AM
    I've been checking out businesses like this for over 20 years. I have never seen a compensation plan like this one. Ever! YTB is for real, and I'm making serious money.

    Please check out the four-minute video on my website. You've got four minutes, don't you? If you like what you see, I promise I will work with you so you can be successful.

    Steve

    sdtravel.net
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    Apr 03 10:42 AM
    YTB is probably one of the biggest blessings one could ever have. It takes the 3 biggest growing industries and applies them into one wonderful business opportunity. Travel/Internet/Homeba... business.
    I am a traditional 'brick and mortar' travel agent and I see YTB as a tool. I am able to give personal service when necessary and also allow my clients to book their own travel on my website. For the clients that have gone to internet bookings (and I know this industry has lost alot of clients to the internet), I now have an avenue to bring them back. It saddens me to see other brick n' mortar agencies have a 'fear' of YTB. We can fight it, or we can see that the Tomer's are truly allowing us an opportunity of a lifetime. To have an internet travel site, that brings me commissions? Expedia/Travelocity/Pr... YTB!!!! No brainer.... Take a look for yourself... travelhoundbiz.us No bashing, just blessings
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    Apr 03 11:03 AM
    First the Industrial Revolution, then the Technological Revolution, then the Physical Distribution Revolution and now the Intellectual Distribution Revolution, Paul Zane Pilzer could not have said it any more accurate. YTB will be the worlds largest network of Intellectual Distribution capable of taking on a vast array of products for the 1 billion boomers worldwide. Can you imagine YTB in China, India, Hello....Truly an 401K on steroids for us RTA's
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    Apr 03 11:16 AM
    I am so grateful to be apart of YTB it has truly been a blessing for me and my family. Coming from a traditional travel business it is the best business decision that I could have made. Joining YTb was an answered prayer for me. The low cost to join made it possible for all my outside agents to start their own business and not have to go through the ups and downs that I experienced as a business owner. We are able to book with the same wholesalers that we used and have so much more available to us. Having the knowledge of travel is great but able to share with those that was already traveling with us and let them know about this business is even greater. I don't care what people say in the negative about YTB it is AWESOME and this is it for me.
    Join us now and be apart of this great business!
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    Apr 03 11:56 AM
    Integrity is important to me, more important than money! What good does it profit a man to gain the whole world and loose his only begotten soul?
    I joined with YTB 7-26-07 to travel. My husband and I take one trip a year alone:}. We called it our “Stay Married Trip”. I said I would never market the company but I did what we all do… I talked about my trip before I left, and I talked about my trip after I returned. The people I talked to liked what they heard the business model. The next thing I knew… I was receiving checks and my web site was being reimbursed. There’s no quota but you want to book travel and a lot of it just because of Coach, Scott and Kim and the passion they have for YTB. Travel is our business and we will be #1.

    Although it’s been less than a year we are making great strides in this company. Our business (it is a business) has really blessed our family. My husband works in the cleaning business(5yrs) and I work in telecommunications(10y... and YTB is going to retire us. We have already gotten our investment back and paid off some student loan debt from our 3 daughters in college. All we are doing is sharing how YTB has helped us. It won’t be for everyone but the ones that decide to receive a confirmation and a commission check too for doing something they where going to do anyway. It’s not YTB it’s the business model. Get paid from your own travel and that of friends and family! They could have called it anything. I call it Wonderful, and I thank God I am the CEO of Coney Travel. I could have let opportunity pass me by like the other guys in the garage with Bill Gates.
    Want to stay married? Do you have children in college?
    Feel free to visit coneytravel.com and allow us to help you “Make a Memory and some Money”!
  •  
    Apr 03 12:31 PM
    We are new to YTB (started end of January). It is not a get rich quick process. As with any business, you have to work at it. We have tried other MLM's only to find out that we were on our own. YTB offers great training and support. YTB offers two unique opportunities, selling travel and the MLM. You can choose to participate in either one or both. So if you don't beleive in MLM's, you can just sell travel.

    We believe in YTB and have purchased stock. At the current price, we have more than paid for the cost of purchasing our YTB business. You don't have a 177% increase in total revenue in a year with a pyramid scheme. Please do your own investigation of the company before making all the negative claims.
  •  
    CLOSE TO $3.00 TODAY! HAVE FUN EVERYONE!! THE BOTTOM LINE IS THAT COACH HAS PUT JESUS FIRST WITH THIS COMPANY---GOD WILL HONOR THAT!! TO ALL THE REST OF YOU SKEPTICS AND CYNICS--PRAY THAT YOUR BOSS, THAT PAYS YOU WHAT THEY THINK YOU ARE WORTH WILL HAVE HALF THE FAITH AND INTEGRITY THAT COACH DOES..
  •  
    Apr 03 01:09 PM
    I'm a CPA and consider myself a pretty smart person. I looked at YTB, joined YTB, bought stock in YTB, made money with YTB (on stock, on selling travel, on selling travel stores). Bottom line - great business model and you'll get paid if you do something with it. And for you "Pyramid" bashers - I've brought people in (under me in this thing you call a pyramid) and they make more than me. What is the shape of that "pyramid"? Corporate America is a pyramid - do you make more than your boss? You can in YTB!!!
  •  
    Apr 03 01:38 PM
    As stated above, YTB is NOT a get rich quick gimmick. It is a true business that can make you a fortune over time and hard work. At your "conventional&quo... job, hard work doesn't necessarily pay off. No matter how hard you work, your boss is going to pay you what he or she wants to. Generally, it's going to be low pay, because your boss wants more money to go into the company tha what is being pais out to employees. If they can find someone new to do the same thing you are doing for less money, they will lay you off and let them do the work. Since times are getting tough, it's becoming a more and more common occurrance. Companies are outsourcing everything to other countries so that their goods can be made cheaper. American manufacturing is way down!

    YTB is a Blesing! The Compensation plan is guaranteed in writing to NEVER be changed! They can't decide they want to pay you less even of they wanted to. YOU decide what YOU are worth! Hard work truly DOES PAY OFF!!! YTB makes PERFECT business sense!

    If you are not yet in YTB, allow me show you how. Click on "My Website" and contact me. Join a winning company and transform your life for the better!!! (Serious inquiries only)
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    Apr 03 01:40 PM
    We have been with YTB just a couple of months and are happy we joined. As we love to travel anyway we found it a great site to have and use the RTA way to travel. Consider your travel work and as such you will be able to deduct expenses that you would not be able to deduct otherwise. Now we are concentrating on the business site. We also booked a cruise on Carnival and will spend the 4th July in Vegas as RTA's. We think we have a great future ahead with this company. go look at our biz site weselldreamtravel.biz. You will be happy you did.
  •  
    Apr 03 01:51 PM
    Investigate YTB with Dr. Bob Seligman, PhD

    PhD in Economics (Oxford) & MBA in Finance (Harvard)
    Former Senior VP of Corporate Development for Fox, Inc.
    Reported Directly to Billionaire Barry Diller (Owner / CEO of Expedia, Inc.)


    This is an opportunity to hear what a new, peer RTA found as a prospective business owner in YTB following his exhaustive investigation that only a few in this country would have even known how to do. Dr. Seligman has seen everything in the book, had all the resources and questions to ask that the rest of us would have never known to or thought of to ask. With his extensive understanding of what this industry represents and is going through, prior to coming onboard, he investigated this Company for six months; evaluating it from the perspective of him hypothetically buying the company personally to help him determine whether he should get involved with YTB as an RTA.

    Lets see what he found and why YTB has his undivided attention! This call is going to give everyone in your business as well a