Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Why Use a Travel Agent – and More to the Point – Why Use Me?

Let’s start with the basics.

If you have never worked with a travel agent before, here's what to expect with me:

Short form: I do all the work and research (like a personal shopper or concierge) the cost will be the same or less than anythingyou can yield from hours of search and click and frustration … and frequently,I bring knowledge to the table that can enhance your travel experience.

Oh, and did I mention this? I get paid by the suppliers, so(with exception of airlines) to use me is FREE to you. If I’m good (suspend doubt and believe myreferences who say that I am …) then FREE is good! And besides, what is YOUR time worth?

Love to do your ownresearch? Great! Bring it on, and I will do the heavy lifting,comparing the fine print – sometimes we’ll book that deal (you lose nothing)& other times I will save you a bundle. (I can usually price matchlegitimate deals too – so you get the benefit of “live” personal assistance at“dot com prices”.)

I am accessible – I do notpunch a clock, and if I am awake, you are usually able to reach me. No offense to friends on the web, but whenyou miss a flight and you are standing in the airport and need someone *live* immediatelyto rearrange all the components of your trip … try dialing a dot.comentity! I am happy to communicate withyou via email, text, Facebook, phone …. I will work within your framework toservice your needs they way it is the most comfortable for you.

Added bonuses: I am a detail freak who will give you all theinformation that I as a traveler would want to know. When I quote cruise rates, they are inclusiveof port fees, taxes and any other surprises (not the “base rates” (or as I callthem, “bait rates”) that are usually advertised in Sunday’s paper or on theweb. When I talk airfare to you, I willtalk about what time you need to be at the airport – layovers – and arrivaltime. Transportation time to aresort. And baggage charges….and seatassignment fees. Don’t be surprised if Iam a little opinionated about carriers who do not give you the best value. Even when we talk a European vacation, I willdiscuss airfare, transfers, excursions, gratuities .. the little things thatadd up that are oft forgotten … so we can build a budget to work toward to giveyou a memorable trip that fits comfortably into your finances.

Value! Yes, price is not value. But price alone, while important, should notbe sole criteria for any decision. I ama firm believer in the big picture. ILISTEN to you and then try to give you the best possible options that fit yourmost important criteria. Then I willhelp you make the best decision based on the factors that are the mostimportant TO YOU. You only have toreview those – rather than all of the ones that do NOT fit! I research, we tweak, and I do over. Then I book, and deliver you a detaileditinerary with all the moving parts wrapped up in a nice little package. Oh yes, you pay – FOR THE TRIP. I am paid by the suppliers --- so the bestnews about using me is that to you — I am FREE!

Anything you see on my blog,or on my website – is just what is up for discussion that day, Please feel free to contact me about anytravel planning needs you have. If it isnot in my realm, I will happily introduce you to the best possible professionalto assist you.

Plus, I am extraordinarilynice. Think of me as your trusted traveladvisor. (You don’t know me well enough for that? Give me a try – you will!) So – going somewhere?? Want to??? ASK ME! Be Smart -- and use atravel agent! The price is the same orbetter, the benefits greater, and traveling without one – you’re on yourown!!

Ready? Let’s go travel!

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