Why Would I Book with a Travel Pro When I know What I Want?
After meeting someone for the first time and I share what my passion and profession is, the next comment is typically something like this: “I thought since it’s so easy to book online, all the travel agents went away!”
My response? “Maybe the bad ones, but I have 17 years experience planning vacation experiences that my clients remember for the rest of their lives, and I can often save them money and certainly TONS of time in the process of creating these amazing memories. I love what I do!”
Here’s why my clients like working with me and come back again and again.
1. First, I protect their precious vacation dollars and hours. I’ve been there, have seen the resorts, know the locations and take time to get to know my clients as well as possible. So I do a great job of matching them with the right experience.
2. Second, I save them a lot of time and hassle. There is so much information on the internet these days and it’s hard to know what is “real” and what’s not. Thanks to my expertise, I am able to zero in on the best options very quickly. In addition, I am the one to sit on hold, check fares and prices, saving them hours and hours of mindless time and aggravation.
3. I can get them special treatment they cannot get on their own. Thanks to my great connections in the industry, I can often get added amenities, upgrades and other special VIP touches that my clients don’t have access to. So even though many “do-it-yourself” vacationers may pat themselves on the back for saving $100 (I typically see the same “deals”), I can sometimes get my clients special amenities worth way more than that.
4. My job doesn’t stop when they book their travel. I go the extra mile to book additional special activities, shore excursions, even restaurant reservations, if desired, and I love adding my own surprise touches. I check if their passports are current, advise about insurance options, help them with packing advice, and even give tipping guidelines.
5. Finally, I am a phone call, email, text or instant message away. If my clients experience unexpected surprises during their travel like a missed connection, they know they have just one phone call to make and I will take care of the rest.
As you can see, I am really committed to making this the best experience possible. I may not get you the cheapest deal; that’s what the online booking companies are for. If you are seeking CHEAP then we may not be a great fit, although in most cases I can price match. But if you are looking for a true partner with the expertise to do this job right and get you the best value and a personalized and memorable experience, then I am your answer!
Below is a trip planning survey I created, asking you the questions that help me to really know you and your travel companions and what your expectations might be as we begin the process together.
Trip Planning Survey
Full legal names and birth dates of travelers:
Preferred dates of travel:
Rooms needed and who is in each:
Airports willing to fly from:
Destination(s) in mind:
Tell me your favorite vacation of all and why:
In general, do you prefer a big city to a deserted beach, or something in between?
What is your biggest priority for this vacation? (i.e., romance, adventure and high energy activities, relaxation, pampering, etc.)
How would you spend a free long weekend with unlimited budget?
Would you prefer champagne, fruit or flowers upon arrival at your first hotel? (This ones not always possible for me, depending on the cost of the vacation).
My specialty is ACTIVE travel…what kinds of activities will interest you most on this trip?
I realize you have probably done some checking of prices and may continue to do so as I prepare your quotes. Please do me a favor. There are lots of “shiny red objects” out there and it’s easy to get sucked in. If you find a better price, bring it to me so I can tell you if it’s the right resort or cruise for you, assess if it’s a true apples-to-apples comparison, and allow me to price match. Deal?
There you have it; a glimpse into what it’s like to work with a travel pro. If you haven’t used one before, ask around and find a good one…you will never turn back!
