I've used those online booking systems, too. Haven't we all? I mean you can find the cheapest rates all right there in one place. Or can you? Keep reading to find out what I can do for you.
I can take the guesswork out of all of your vacation planning. There are so many things to do, so many places to see. After getting to know you on a personal level, I will use my expertise to match your vacation with the proper preferred vendors that we have. Not only will I save you time researching and making decisions, I can also handle changes and other issues that may pop up before or during your trip.
I thrive on finding you the best deals, just as I would for my own trips. I will also do all of the leg work from excursion reservations, resort requests, advanced dining reservations at Disney, transfers, and more. If something happens or goes wrong, it is my duty to you to solve the issue behind the scenes while you go about your vacation.
I know, I know. We don't want to think about anything bad happening on our vacation, but unfortunately, it can still occur. From bad weather to family emergencies, I will make sure everything gets taken care of to the best of my ability. If something were to happen during your stay that you are not happy with, I will make sure to advocate for you. As much as want our vacations to be perfect, we have to remember that life happens.
We never thought we would have to face something like the C-word, but can you imagine traveling and not knowing the protocols for the airline, or the resort, or even the country? I'm constantly monitoring destinations and travel requirements so that there aren't any surprises along the way.
Once we've got you booked, I start putting together all of your travel documents and other resources that might be beneficial to your trip. You will then be able to download them on an app, print them off to use as a hardcopy, or both! It's always nice having backup in case your phone isn't working.
I have connections and preferred suppliers across the world whom I can trust and rely on when booking your vacations. As a travel agent, I'm usually offered better rates and/or bonus perks. If you come to me with a question that I may not be able to answer, I have an entire community whom I can rely on to help me find the answer.
Here are some of the most common questions that I get asked.
Q: How do you get paid?
A: I currently do not charge any service fees as of 2023. I am paid by the resorts. I do not get paid booking airfare. Many resorts have price parity, the cost is same whether you book through me, direct with the resort, or with an online booking engine. The difference between using a travel agent is that I help you plan a stress-free vacation without the hassle of doing it alone.
Q: Do you book rentals like Airbnb or VRBO?
A: No, I cannot book either of these for clients. Because of Airbnbs protection policy for their owners, the person staying at the home must be the one who books. Additionally, my lack of ability to properly vouch for an Airbnb or VRBO property, I do not include booking Airbnbs as a service. However, I do have a list of preferred suppliers through my host agency that I can rely on and trust that offer rental type properties like an Airbnb or VRBO home.
Q: Can I make payments?
A: Yes. As long as you're not planning a vacation within 30 days of your arrival, you will be able to make payments. The deposit requirements are set by the resorts, cruise, and the tour operators I book through. Deposit rates vary based on the resort or package you select, and the time you are traveling. Most vacation packages require that you pay the balance 30-45 days prior to your arrival. Again, that payment is made directly to the supplier.
Q: Do I really need travel protection?
A: In today's travel climate, I understand how important flexibility and the option to cancel your trip has become. Part of my job as your travel advisor is to educate you about each aspect of your trip cancellation policy. The tour guides, hotels, properties, and experiences I curate for my clients often have their own unique set of cancellation policies, so I will include all cancellation details clearly in your trip proposal. We will also discuss travel insurance when you select your itinerary.
Q: When will I receive my travel documents?
A: I always send your confirmation over immediately as soon as a I receive it to let you know exactly what is going on during your booking process. When it is time for your trip, the most convenient option for your documents will be completely electronic itineraries. These e-documents can be accessed on your smartphone through the Travefy app at all times on your trip and shared with loved ones who want to know your itinerary as well. When the time comes, I will send you instructions on how to utilize them to the fullest. You will also be able to print your itinerary as well. I like to have both for my own vacations.
Q: Do you actually get better deals as a travel agent, or do you just know where to look?
A: I have access to all the same pricing for resorts as the online booking sites do and I can price-match online booking engine pricing when comparing. In many cases, I can find discounts and other promotional offerings that are not offered to the general public.