Why Hire a Travel Advisor?

As a travel advisor for over 20 years, I have seen a lot! I often have people tell me they book direct because they think they are saving money or, really like the people at the cruise line or tour operator companies they are talking to and trust they are getting all the information they need to make a good decision or they thought travel agents were no longer ‘a thing!’ I assure you we are alive and well.

 

But is it always the best decision for everyone? Let’s break it down.

 

Expertise and Knowledge and Experience

 

Travel advisors often have extensive knowledge and expertise in travel destinations, accommodations, activities, and transportation options. They can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on their experience and connections in the industry. Yes, we have been there and done that.

• Do you want a recommendation on a specific port?
• Is a specific cruise line or ship the right choice for you and your spouse or you and your family?
• Maybe you have a group, and you need to meet the needs of everyone?
• If you call one company, they aren’t going to give you any choices except the ones from their company.
• Do you know that 90% of the people you talk to at a cruise line or tour operator are call center employees who may have never set foot outside of the country, on a ship, at the destination your are calling about or may be based in a call center outside of the US?
• And if your travel advisor doesn’t know about the destination you want to go to, they can network with other advisors to get firsthand information for you.

 

Time Savings

 

Planning a trip can be time-consuming, especially when researching destinations, comparing prices, and making bookings. A travel advisor can handle all the details, saving you time and effort.

• Do you like spending time on the phone?
• Do you like spending time on hold?
• Do you want to print out endless pages of internet information and try to sort it out?
• A travel advisor will collect all necessary information from you and do all the research freeing you up to work or play.

 

Personalized Service

 

Travel advisors take the time to understand your preferences, interests, and budget constraints. They can tailor their recommendations to meet your specific needs and desires, ensuring a personalized travel experience.

• We also remember you! Next time you book we will know what you want or don’t want!
• We ask questions to ensure you get the right experience on your trip—not the one you see that looks the best in pictures.
• And we may steer you away from something that will be totally wrong for you!

 

Access to Exclusive Deals and Amenities and Alerts for Reduced Rates

 

Travel advisors often have access to exclusive deals, promotions, and amenities that may not be available to the general public. This can include discounted rates, complimentary upgrades, and special perks at hotels, resorts, and tour companies.

• Yes, this is a big one!
• We often have special rates, promos, and free stuff.
• I cannot tell you how often I get to tell my clients that they are getting a reduced price they didn’t see on the vendor website, or they are getting free money to spend on their trip.
• And when the rates go down, and if the vendor allows, I refare the booking and surprise them with the lower price!
• Everyone loves the awesome surprises!

 

Peace of Mind and Extra Care

 

With a travel advisor handling the details of your trip, you can have peace of mind knowing that everything is taken care of. If any issues or unexpected changes arise during your travels, your advisor can provide assistance and support to resolve them.

• No one wants anything to happen. But if it does, don’t you want an ally in your court?
• And what about all those little touches?
  • Wheelchair assistance at the airport or pier?
  • Sharps containers in your room?
  • Bringing a CPAP on vacation?
  • Need a special diet notated on your reservation?
  • Celebrating anything?

 

Overall, hiring a travel advisor can enhance your travel experience by providing expert guidance, saving you time and effort, and ensuring a personalized and stress-free trip. And you have nothing to lose!! So, call a travel advisor for your next vacation. Call me! Carole Criddle 775-626-0202.