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"TOP-NOTCH TOURS” is more than just our name...it’s our trademark!
Established in 1998 by Brenda Bahler, offering quality, yet affordable group travel, most often by motorcoach. Tours range from day outings to multiple day get-aways! An occasional flight is included on tours with a greater distance of travel. "I look forward to hearing from you & seeing you on-board!” Brenda ♥ |
The Backstory
I reside in Lebanon, IN with my husband, Steve. As a previous 20-year employee of Lafayette Bank & Trust Co (Lafayette, IN) I spent my last ten years as coordinator of the 50 Plus Club. This program was offered with several added benefits on senior checking accounts. However, now (years later) I can freely say that “I no longer think ‘50' qualifies in the ‘senior’ market!” Nevertheless, one benefit of the club was to offer group travel. We didn’t do a lot in volume, but enough for me to get the ‘bug’ for more.
To make a long story short...after Steve had been driving back-and-forth to Indianapolis (as an employee of TIGER COACHES for nearly two years) we started thinking about relocating to Lebanon. At that time, TIGER COACHES was bought-out by TRAVELWAYS (based out of New Jersey) and I was offered a position to start-up a tour division. After much consideration, I gave a three-month notice, left the bank, joined TRAVELWAYS and ‘TOP-NOTCH TOURS’ became a reality for me.
I knew within several months that the ‘big, corporate world’ was not for me! I had no control to give the ‘personal touch’ that I so desired. By the end of the year, at my suggestion, they agreed it was not a priority (money-maker) for them and I was able to go out on my own, conducting business to my liking. Back to the ‘short version’.... I’m now in my 25th year and continue to enjoy the many miles, memories and friendships.
The ‘TOP-NOTCH’ team consists of myself in planning, scheduling and escorting; Dee Ratliff-Shubert, taking reservations, posting payments and misc. clerical; and assisting with escorting 2nd coaches. And, of course, I can’t forget ‘hubby’ who is also very instrumental in the success of ‘TOP-NOTCH TOURS’ with his record-keeping assistance, great support and much needed patience as our full-time driver! However, the real credit goes to the many ‘TOP-NOTCH TRAVELERS’ that obviously generates our overall success!
To make a long story short...after Steve had been driving back-and-forth to Indianapolis (as an employee of TIGER COACHES for nearly two years) we started thinking about relocating to Lebanon. At that time, TIGER COACHES was bought-out by TRAVELWAYS (based out of New Jersey) and I was offered a position to start-up a tour division. After much consideration, I gave a three-month notice, left the bank, joined TRAVELWAYS and ‘TOP-NOTCH TOURS’ became a reality for me.
I knew within several months that the ‘big, corporate world’ was not for me! I had no control to give the ‘personal touch’ that I so desired. By the end of the year, at my suggestion, they agreed it was not a priority (money-maker) for them and I was able to go out on my own, conducting business to my liking. Back to the ‘short version’.... I’m now in my 25th year and continue to enjoy the many miles, memories and friendships.
The ‘TOP-NOTCH’ team consists of myself in planning, scheduling and escorting; Dee Ratliff-Shubert, taking reservations, posting payments and misc. clerical; and assisting with escorting 2nd coaches. And, of course, I can’t forget ‘hubby’ who is also very instrumental in the success of ‘TOP-NOTCH TOURS’ with his record-keeping assistance, great support and much needed patience as our full-time driver! However, the real credit goes to the many ‘TOP-NOTCH TRAVELERS’ that obviously generates our overall success!