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I get it. Why would you use a travel advisor when there are plenty of places you can book a vacation online yourself? I was guilty of these thoughts as well before I realized the value a travel advisor could add to my vacation. Sure, we all want the best deal, but don't you want the best experience too? If you're spending the time and money to visit a destination, you want that experience to be the best it can be and be as stress-free and seamless as possible, right? Let's talk about all the benefits of using a travel advisor so you can make the best decision for you and your family.
Time
One of the hardest parts of planning a vacation is...actually planning the vacation. There are thousands of websites, reviews and options to choose from. It's overwhelming. And if you are like me and want to ensure you are making the best decision, you will spend countless hours trying to figure out all of the details. Between work, kids, activities and everything in between, most of us just don't have that kind of time or energy to invest in the planning process. This is where a travel advisor comes in handy. We have extensive training on destinations and properties around the world so when you say, "I want an all-inclusive, family-friendly resort with a short flight and child-care options on site," or "My spouse and I need to reconnect and want a more secluded, romantic atmosphere," I already have the best places in mind for you.
Stress
Not only do travel advisors save you from the stress of planning your trip, we also help with all of the little details along the way. From checking-in, reminders of payment deadlines, what to pack, where to go, how you will get there, making reservations and so much more, we take care of making sure you know exactly what to do and when to do it. How would you know that you need to fill out an embarkation/deportation form within hours of entering or leaving another country? What if you miss your connecting flight or it is delayed and you then miss your check-in at the port where you cruise is leaving from? What do you do now? This brings me to another huge benefit of using a travel advisor. We will help you troubleshoot when things go wrong, even at 3 AM. While you call a 1-800 number, praying you can get a human on the phone because you booked through an online vacation retailer (yes, this has happened to me!), I am calling my industry partners and connections to help problem solve to get your vacation back on track. Now, we don't have a magic wand but we will do everything in our power to help guide you through the process.
Connections
Remember that 1-800 number you have to call only to be on hold for 2 hours and get an automated system that doesn't answer any of your questions? Travel advisors work closely with suppliers and vendors around the globe to ensure our clients have the best experience possible. That means 24 hour support before, during and after your trip. What else does this mean for you? VALUE. We have access to preferred rates that may include exclusive amenities and extras you won't get anywhere else. For instance, when you book with me, you may be eligible for room upgrades, access to exclusive destinations and events, resort/spa credits, early check-in/late check-out and more. Do you want to have a special, surprise moment planned on your trip? I will use my industry connections and go above and beyond to make it happen.
Expertise
As I mentioned before, travel advisors have knowledge of specific destinations as well as travel requirements around the globe. We also can recommend the best places to take that selfie and must-see sites and things to do while you are there. Want the best coffee in town? What about an immersive cooking experience with the locals? This is how a travel advisor can help elevate your experience. And if we don't know the answer to your question, or where to find something, we definitely have the connections to find out.
Fees
Everything mentioned above brings me to answering a big question that may be on your mind...Why do I charge a planning fee? Just as I value your time and want you to spend it with those you love, I also value my time. Charging a fee compensates me for my expertise and allows me to devote my time to making your vacation everything you dreamed of and more. Because 95% of that time is spent on the front-end, before you take a trip, the fee protects me and ensures that I don't spend hours doing research, letting someone pick my brain, or offer quotes only to have them shop elsewhere. Do you want to work for free? I didn't think so. Now, I know what your next question may be...don't I get paid a commission? Yes, a small commission is paid AFTER a client's trip is complete and is rarely paid on the total price of the trip. So if you cancel or don't book, I don't get paid at all. My goal is not to book you with a supplier that offers the highest commission, but to get you the best value for your money and ensure that your wants and needs are met, which could mean no commission for me at times. What else does the fee cover after you are booked? If the price of your trip changes, I will use my connections to try to get you a price adjustment. With the Covid-19 pandemic in play, the ever-changing health and travel requirements can be confusing. I will keep you up-to-date and in-the-know. If you need to make changes to or reschedule your trip, I will handle this for you. Any questions you have, help you need, or recommendations you desire, I am with you before, during and after your trip to assist. Now, some advisors may not "charge a fee" but, instead, raise the price on your vacation package so they are essentially getting paid without you knowing it. I believe in being transparent which is why I tell you what my fees are up front. Those fees vary depending on the length, party size and complexity of your trip.
Ready to Book?
If you're ready to start using a travel advisor and think we would make a good match, contact me so we can get started. Still not convinced? That's okay. It took me a long time to get there too. My consultation is always complimentary and I'm happy to help answer any questions you may have about the process. My goal is not just to earn your business, but to build a relationship with you so that by getting to know you and your family, I can continue to help you plan the best vacations tailored to your likes, interests and needs which will create the most treasured memories that will last a lifetime.
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