In the business of meetings and incentives, nothing distinguishes one company from its competitors more than its people. The CTP Group is comprised of people with competence, creativity and industry foresight – along with the aptitude and positive attitude for this demanding, service-oriented business. Our staff has been built over the years into a top-notch team of diverse talent. Everyone at The CTP Group loves what they do – and it shows!
Founded in 1977, The CTP Group has leveraged the power of travel to motivate, inform, educate, engage and inspire hundreds of organizations and thousands of travelers. In our nearly 40-year history we have handled just about every possible component involved in the delivery of flawless incentive and association travel programs, meetings and conferences; we understand the substantial business value derived from the successful operation of these events.
We’ve operated programs in over 40 countries, and have built long-standing relationships with vendors, hotels and destination management companies. This allows us to be on the cutting edge of what’s new and noteworthy, as well as pass along the absolute best value to you. We live for helping people form personal connections and engage in meaningful ways. We are excited to help you attain your business or association goals!
We believe that in a social media focused world, travel and face-to-face connections are still the most transformative ways to build and maintain relationships with your teams, clients, colleagues, and members. We know that by creating memorable travel experiences and meetings, we can inspire and enrich the lives of your valued attendees, and create the long-standing relationships necessary for success.
+ Gabriel Haigazian - President and CEO
Favorite Places I’ve Been
Every place I visit becomes my favorite for that time. I am just so in love with Traveling. If I had to choose, I would say India, Antarctica (with all the penguins and unspoiled nature), New York for its energy, and anywhere in Italy, because I love food. I’ve been lucky enough to have stepped foot on all seven continents and have traveled to over 100 countries!
Best Travel Experience
On one of our programs to India, we were walking in the streets of Jaipur when all of a sudden we rounded the corner and were swept up in an amazing spiritual procession. The people invited us to join in and we danced with them for blocks and learned their traditions. I suppose it was the closest thing to an Indian flash mob as one could experience.
Worst Travel Experience
Once, trying to get back from the Virgin Islands, all flights got canceled in Puerto Rico and I absolutely had to be back in the office. I sat at the airport for hours and finally, at the ticket counter, turned the agents screen so it faced me and showed her exactly how to get me home that day. She was amazed (and so was I, that she let me do it!)
Best Place to Watch the Sunrise
For me, I think there is nothing like watching the sunrise in India while hearing the morning call to prayers, or watching the sunrise over the Bush in Southern Africa while on Safari!
Best Place to Watch the Sunset
From the steps of Sacre Coeur in Paris. The sky goes from blue, to Red, to Pink.
Before I Die I Want to…
I want to see the return of the Concord, so I can fly in a supersonic jet and see the curvature of the earth. Or travel on Virgin Galactic. I’d love to explore more of the Middle East; see the raw beauty of Iceland and re-visit the bush in Kenya.
+ Howard Wise - Vice President of Operations
How many years have you been doing this?
20+ years
Name one thing that inspires you in this career?
The ability to to “wow” our guests with once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
Favorite program?
Lake Como and Venice
One thing you can’t travel abroad without?
Motion sickness remedies
What’s in your carry-on?
Noise canceling headphones and a Kindle
Most memorable meal abroad?
Lunch at Ristorante Donna Sofia in Sorrento, Italy. Incredible pasta dishes!
What do you usually bring home as a souvenir?
Local foods and culinary items
Favorite airport?
Vancouver – It’s so clean you could eat off the floor.
How do you deal with jet-lag?
Not very well 😉
How many countries have you visited?
17… and counting!
Best place to watch the sunset?
Capri, Italy
What’s next?
Amsterdam
+ Ellen Gruetzmacher - Program Manager
How many countries have you visited?
38 – but I’m just getting started!
Best Place to Watch the Sunrise
I’m not really a sunrise kinda’ gal (I DO love my sleep!), but the Taj Mahal at sunrise was really quite spectacular!
Best place to watch the sunset?
Honestly, one of the best places is in Shell Beach, California – along the Central Coast (my former home for many years). It truly is beautiful!
Favorite place you’ve been (so far)?
Every place I go is my favorite. I can always find something amazing and transformational at every destination. I think my newest favorite is South Africa - Capetown, Stellenbosch, and a safari in Kruger - hard to compete with all that!
Most memorable meal abroad?
I love food! Almost every meal is memorable! I have to say, though, that I’m a dessert lover, so that’s what I really look forward to at each destination.
Before I Die I Want to…
I want to visit all the UNESCO World Heritage sites - every single one!
