WHY BELIEVE US?

traveltruth.com is a collaborative effort designed to offer the vacation consumer real world advice without exaggeration, deception, or sales bias. It is the ultimate insider’s view of how things really work, written by an award-winning team of travel consultants and journalists. We are the owners, managers, and staff at Churchill & Turen Ltd.

Churchill and Turen Ltd. is a vacation-planning firm that is entirely devoted to "The Vacations in Your Life that Truly Matter." We are currently celebrating our 21st year in business. Our telephone numbers are all unlisted and new clients are accepted exclusively by personal referral from our current clients or from readers referred to us in the pages of the world's leading travel publications. Everyone at Churchill and Turen is committed to providing visitors to this site with hard-hitting, unbiased travel reporting and ratings. Our commitment to travel consumerism is real and one of the ways that we demonstrate that commitment is by refusing to accept advertising or promotional support for this site. Although we remain devoted to servicing the needs of our clients, we are also willing to help any serious travel consumer with questions regarding the relative merits of travel products.

In our current environment, the travel consumer is bombarded by misinformation and outright lies on a daily basis. Bait-and-switch “from $499” ads are the rule – not the exception. A half-inch is defined as "extra legroom" and a moldy hot tub may be a "luxurious spa". Google virtually any travel-related topic, from hotel properties to destinations and you are smothered in a sea of tens of thousands, perhaps millions of ads disguised as information. No one seems willing to help. Everyone wants your credit card number. We hope that traveltruth.com is just the first step toward changing that perception.

Do we have an exclusive on the “truth” about travel? Of course not. But we do have the ability to tell-it-like-it-is based on our unique experiences as travel writers, travel consultants, and travel suppliers. And we speak from a position of strength with a loyal cadre of discriminating clients nationwide who keep us fully booked. Finally - we have no advertisers - by design. We answer to no one. That is why we are free to just tell you the truth about travel.

Angela Turen handled travel arrangements for the television series “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous.” She was a Tour Manager at Abercrombie and Kent, the fabled luxury tour operator. Angela has traveled the world as an international tour escort. Conde Nast Traveler Magazine has named her the nation’s “Top Spa Specialist” for the fourth consecutive year. She consults with spas throughout the world and creates Spa and Wellness vacations in luxurious surroundings on a global basis. Angela has clients throughout the United States including many in the arts and entertainment fields. She is a strong believer in the rights of consumers to know both the up side and the down side of all vacation options.  She is nationally recognized as a family vacation planning specialist Angela has won Top Producer awards from travel firms such as Tauck World Discovery, Celebrity Cruises, and Regent Seven Seas Cruises.

Richard Turen enjoyed a career as an executive with Princess Cruises during the “Love Boat” years. He appears frequently on talk radio and hosted the cable television talk show “Timbuktu and Points Beyond” for thirteen years. Richard has won more than two dozen prestigious “World’s Best” Travel Specialist awards from Conde Nast Traveler, more than any other travel consultant in the United States. For ten years he wrote a popular syndicated column dealing with consumer travel issues for Copley Newspapers. He currently serves as a Contributing Editor at Travel Weekly Magazine, the nation’s most influential industry publication. He has been a dedicated advocate of consumer travel education. He is the author of three books, “Turen on Travel” and “Turen on Restaurants andhis latest book "Reality Checks: What the Travel Ads Don't Tell You." ”.He has appeared on CNN, ABC, and NBC News.

Although all Churchill and Turen Ltd. clients deal personally with Angela or Richard Turen, the firm’s Concierge staff is unusually well qualified.

When Travel + Leisure Magazine compiled a list of the world’s Top Travel Planners. Only two travel agencies, Bill Fisher Travel in New York, and Churchill and Turen Ltd. made the list. C&T was cited for its excellence in providing “bespoke” custom travel arrangements for a roster of discriminating clients.

Churchill and Turen Ltd. has been profiled in The New York Times in an article that hailed it’s dedication to upscale niche vacation planning. The article pointed out that Churchill and Turen was thriving while many so-called “full service” travel agencies were floundering. The firm’s expertise has been cited in the pages of USA Today, Consumer Reports, The Washington Post, Forbes, and Smart Money Magazine.

The firm recently achieved a "perfect" score from the Chicago area consumer magazine "Chicago Checkbook".

Travelrtruth.com was never launched as a vehicle to produce thousands of new clients via the internet. It is, instead, a continuation of the consumer approach to travel that has been the company’s hallmark for the past eighteen years. In a profile of the business written more than a decade ago, Travel Weekly Magazine wrote that “truth in travel is clearly the motto at Churchill and Turen Ltd.”  The truth is that we do not solicit those who enjoy a current relationship with a travel agent.  We believe in the principles of loyalty and trust. We do not wish to take away business from other professionals. In fact, we do not take on large numbers of new clients. Our telephone numbers are unlisted to the general public. We have decided to list our telephone number on this site and it is available to the readers of Conde Nast Traveler and those who come to us via the personal referral of an existing client.

This site was first conceived when one of our writers was researching an upcoming article for a magazine. She tried to find honest rankings of the various cruise lines on the internet. She wanted to find out which airlines had the best safety records. The information did not exist. Now it does.

Here is what a few industry leaders have said about us:

“You and your  team should be proud of your status as “Top Producers” worldwide for Tauck World Discovery. While sales figures are great, I have always put quality over quantity as a measure of success. From this perspective, you and your team deserve an encore. Like us, you put your customers first.”

Peter Tauck - President Tauck World Discovery

"It takes a dreamweaver like yourself to turn our readers's wishes into reality. Thanks for serving them so well."

Thomas Wallace - Former editor in Chief Conde Nast Traveler Magazine

"Congratulatons of yet another industry acknowledgement of your status, expertise, and professionalism. We are honored to have the opportunity to work with you."

Simon F. Cooper - President and Chief Operating Officer Ritz Carlton Hotels

"Congratulations. This just confirms what we've always known - your hard work and efforts have now received the recognition you so richly deserve. We at Radisson Seven Seas Cruises consider it a privilege to be associated with you."

Mark S. Conroy - President and CEO Radisson Seven Seas Cruises

“I particularly appreciate the counsel and feedback you have given us over the years as members of our Top 100 Club.”

Allistair Ballantine  - Frm. President, Abercrombie and Kent

“Considering that there are tens of thousands of travel agents in our industry it is statistically easier to get into Harvard than to be named to Conde Nast Traveler’s Top 70 agents list.” Congratulations.

Dennis Pinto - President Micato Safaris

“I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate you on your recognition by Conde Nast Traveler as one of the nation’s Best Travel Agents. I was very pleased to see your name among this esteemed group of individuals and I whole-heartedly agree with their choice. Your professionalism and dedication to the industry has brought you this well deserved recognition.”

Kirk Lanterman - Chairman and CEO Holland America Line

“Have you ever been called a Virtuoso for your level of skill and professionalism? Well you have now! We ernestly thank you for setting a higher standard that will ultimately benefit an entire industry."

Matthew Upchurch - CEO Virtuoso

“In an industry where the smallest of details can make the difference between a great experience and an unpleasant one, it is notable for the nation’s leading travel magazine to single you out as an outstanding practitioner in your field.”

Ellen Gerchick - Director of Luxury Sales, Park Hyatt Hotels

"There is no finer honor than that which is bestowed upon us by our peers and clients. I join Conde Nast in recognizing you not only as "a conscientous and well-connected advocate" but a truly stellasr expert within the greater travel and hospitality marketplace."

J. Turnbaugh - The Regent Beverly Wilshire

"Congratulations on being named a Dream Maker, and in multiple categories no less. That's quite an honor and I know well deserved. You should be very proud ......"

Canyon Ranch Health Resort

Here is what a few of our clients have said about us:

The following comments are unsolicited. Originals on file.

" Just wanted you to know that absolutely everything you touched was gold. Every accommodation and plan was

perfection. From the moment we arrived in Istanbul (and the way in which we were greeted and expedited through customs etc.) the Hotel, the tour guides etc. Just a masterful production.

R. Danziger (former CEO of Carlson Wagon Lits. Travel)

"..you are exceptional travel consultants who go "extra miles" to insure that all passengers booked through your firm have a great voyage."

R. Egner

"We selected Churchill and Turen to plan our land and cruise arrangements in Alaska. The staff met with us, listened to our plans and ideas, and focused on what our interests are and what we enjoy in a vacation. The trip was planned with those interests in mind. Their insights and advice enabled us to concentrate on enjoying our vacation, rather than managing it. We particularly valued their help with our optional excursions. These recommendations provided us with the fondest and most endearing memories of a truly wonderful vacation. It is very clear that Churchill and Turen has clients whose travel budgets exceeds ours. However, throughout the process, we were made to feel that we were the firm's most cherished clients."

J. Galati

"Congratulations on your recent accolade; we've told all our friends and they want to know if they do business with you can you guarantee them a miracle on their next trip, say something along the lines of winning a million Francs at the casino in Monte Carlo? Of course, I said, if it were possible, Churchill and Turen could make it happen. We live in a world of retail mediocrity. It's everywhere and it is polluting the travel industry and the airlines they represent as never before. We expect much more and those at the top of the list are clearly identifiable. Sitting from where C&T is perched, I would suggest that your future is secure and very bright indeed."

T. Bartlett

"Thank you for organizing a truly wonderful trip. We really cannot say enough! Both Villa La Massa and the Savoy were impressive. Our tours were incredible. Our guides offered a wealth of insights into Florentine and Tuscan lives. We will share more travel experiences with you in the future."

K. Lombardizzo

"What can we say" This cruise was everything you said and more. Everything has gone beautifully. Your suggestions for side trips were exactly right. I passed your name on to many folks unhappy with their agents..... Thanks so much for everything. You are a fantastic consultant. The trip was wonderful and you can be assured that we will be booking our next trip with you."

K. Mandel

"John and I can't thank you enough for such an incredible, amazing, and special honeymoon! Your added touches made us feel like royalty and we couldn't imagine having it any better and wouldn't change a thing about it. Thanks again."

S. Parkhurst

"Many thanks for your usual extra efforts that made our trip sp memorable. The day off the ship at La Samana was beyond perfection."

A. Haeussler

"David and I wanted to thank you for a memorable trip aboard the Mariner. Your enthusiasm, and professionalism are a winning combination. We are experienced travelers, both independently and with groups, and your services, attention to detail, and interest made the experience memorable."

D. Bellezo

"Many years of continued success and happiness with your business, Thank you for making so many of our travel dreams come true."

M. Junkrowski

"Have your ears been ringing? We've been singing your praises at NBC 5. You are awesome at what you do."

Allison Rosati Anchor NBC News

CHURCHILL AND TUREN LTD.

630 - 717 - 7777

NEED MORE ASSURANCE? - HERE ARE SOME SPECIFICS

WE COULDN’T COME UP WITH ONE REASON WHY YOU SHOULD USE OUR SERVICES.

BUT WE DID COME UP WITH FIFTY

01 –     Our exclusive “Lowest Cruise Price in the USA” Guarantee on all 4/5 star-rated lines.

02 –     All Churchill and Turen guests always receive more then they would have received had they booked their cruise or tour directly. Always.

03 -      Staff has been named to the list of the 100 Best Travel Specialists in the World since the list began.

04 –     You will work with a travel professional with more than 20 years of experience in the industry.

05 -      We offer an exclusive “Price Protection” Guarantee on every vacation we plan. If the price goes down – you are protected.

06 –     We qualify each client for every category of discount and we list the discounts in writing.

07 –     Unlike so-called “we do everything travel agencies”, we have specialized in cruise and tour planning since our inception. We do not work for the airlines.

08 –     Our consultants have appeared on the list of “The World’s Best Travel Specialists” thirty-seven times – more than any other travel firm in the United States.

09 –     Our “Second Opinion” service saves you money eight out of ten times.

10 –     There are no fees of any kind in conjunction with our cruise and tour planning services.

11 –     Travel + Leisure Magazine named us one of the nation’s top twenty vacation planning firms.

12 -      Our new clients come to us exclusively by referral from existing clients.

13 –     We are one of the most successful niche travel firms in the nation. The New York Times recently profiled our success.

14 -      We are members of Virtuoso, the travel industry’s most prestigious “by-invitation-only” organization. Less than 1% of the nation’s travel agencies qualify for membership.

15 -      Last year, the 304 members of Virtuoso sold $4.6 billion in leisure sales. That translates into clout. We are literally the “top producing agents” for 90% of the top echelon cruise lines.

16 –     Each of our clients received complimentary membership in The Voyager Club for frequent cruisers.

17 –     Our clients can choose from more than 450 hosted sailings on the world’s top ships. Benefits include complimentary cocktail party and a truly memorable shore excursion, usually including lunch.

18 –     We have personally sailed on more than 160 voyages worldwide. Our knowledge comes from personal experience.

19 –     Travel Weekly Magazine described our firm by saying that “truth in travel is clearly the niche at Churchill and Turen.”

20 –     Our staff never recommends any product based on the commission earned. Our entire business focus is ‘what is best for the client.”

21 –     We are entering our 23rrd  year in business.

22 -      Our clients live in 46 states and Canada. 71% of our clients live out-of-state. We serve our national following with toll-free lines.

23 -      Members of our staff have lived abroad. We frequently lecture on international tourism.

24 -      Our company President worked on the television series “Lifestyles of the Rich and Famous”.  She knows the world’s best luxury hideaways.

25 -      Our Managing Director was the Headmaster of an American school in Europe and worked for the Love Boat for a decade.

26 -      Our Family Travel Specialists are experts at matching families with the very best on-board children’s programs and family tour departures.

27 -      Each family trip or reunion begins with our exclusive “Family Planning Conference.”

28 -      We write the travel agent advice column for the nation’s leading industry magazine.

29 -      Our Corporate Credo is carried by every staff member – it is in writing and is available to all clients.

30 -      We have an affiliated Churchill and Turen office with 54 employees in Florence, Italy.

31 -      Guests receive our excusive “Trip Preparation Report” containing the latest advice and strategies for traveling abroad.

32 -      Each invoice is customized to our clients specific needs and requests. We do not use computerized invoice systems.

33 -      Unlike the vast majority of travel agencies, we book every vacation offline. We do not use airline software to make vacation arrangements.

34 -      We meet personally with the managers of the world’s top resorts and hotels in face-to-face meetings at twice each year. Our client’s reservations are often brought to the attention of top management.

35 -      Our clients receive complimentary upgrades at most of the world’s top-rated hotels and resorts. We offer more hotel and resort amenities than any other travel entity on the planet.

36 –     Our access to the Virtuoso Air Desk allows us to offer special contracted rates in Business and First Class on some of the world’s most prestigious airlines.

37 -      We have planned numerous multi-generation family gatherings around-the-world.

38 -      Our new web site, www.traveltruth.com, is unlike anything on the internet. You will receive untainted travel advice and recommendations free of advertising bias and sales pressure.

39 -      Our clients receive complimentary travel publications suited to their lifestyle. Our magazines contain a summary of the best current quality offers in the marketplace.

40 -      Our clients receive the latest special offers and exclusive amenities directly from the world’s best cruise lines and tour operators.

41 -      Our clients receive the exclusive benefits of The Royal Cruising and Touring Society.

42 -      Our supplier standards are among the most stringent in the industry. We simply will not represent any company that does not meet our financial, product, and service standards. If we represent a company or a property, you can rest assured that you are always in good hands.

43  -     Our worldwide contacts and affiliated global network enables us to plan experiences based on your special travel interests and goals virtually anywhere on the planet.

44 -      Churchill and Turen clients traveling abroad receive a dedicated booklet specific to their destination(s). Our Destination Report contains sightseeing and restaurant recommendations as well as the latest health and safety advice.

45 -      Since our staff does not work on commission, you will never feel the sales pressure that is so common on the internet and in traditional travel agency offices. We often talk clients out of a planned trip if we feel that is the best advice.

46 -      We evaluate and rate the Top Ten Cruise Lines in the World and make that information available to our clients. Our ratings are updated often to reflect product changes and quality. We are never afraid to name names.

47 -      The owners of our firm handle the vast majority of bookings and are always available to speak directly with clients. Your vacation is never planned by a recent travel school graduate or a run-of-the-mill travel agent working off an airline computer system.

48 -      Each year we personally escort “Signature” cruises and tours designed exclusively for our clients.

49 -      Our access to wholesale package rates in Hawaii and Mexico, with sharply discounted airfare on name carriers, enables us to provide cost effective vacation packages without the need to select from a set brochure program.

50 -      The sum total of our assets is our cumulative knowledge and our personal concern for the outcome of every single vacation that we plan.

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