Travel Advisors - An Affordable Luxury
A few years ago I bought a lawnmower. Mowing my lawn seemed a simple task and doing it myself would save money. After two weeks, I sold it. Something I assumed would be easy turned out to be a huge pain in the ***- the machine was heavy and difficult to maneuver, the hills in the front yard made mowing harder and my backyard suddenly got larger when I started to mow it. The entire endeavor was a waste of time and money.
We all have the ability to mow our own lawn, exercise and decorate our homes. Yet landscapers, personal trainers and interior designers are thriving. Why? Because working with an expert is an affordable luxury that creates a shortcut to achieving goals while minimizing mistakes. Travel advisors elevate the travel experience by seamlessly creating and delivering memorable, stress-free vacations. Here’s why you should consider partnering with one:
Saves Time - In my humble opinion, this is the #1 reason to work with an advisor. Effortless vacations require careful planning and attention to detail. But our schedules are already stretched too thin. Do you have time to sift through endless articles, chat with friends, read online reviews, research hotels & activities and scour social media posts to create (and book) the perfect trip? Sharing your ideal vision with an advisor means they do all the heavy lifting, arranging everything from accommodations to transfers to excursions, all tailored to your specific tastes.
Accurate Information/Expert Advice - As mentioned above, there are limitless resources to research a trip. Too many, in fact. So who do you trust? Reviews can be helpful but when you have people out there complaining that Anne Frank’s house was “too claustrophobic” (really?), you need an informed opinion. And googling “best boat tours in Jamaica” will return recommendations based on the sheer number of reviews, not actual quality. A good advisor will delve into the details and provide knowledgeable recommendations to ensure all facets of your trip meet/exceed your expectations.
Maximizes Your Investment - Myth- using an advisor increases the cost of a trip. Reality- pricing is similar, and sometimes even lower if the advisor tips you off to a great deal. Plus added perks like free breakfasts, spa credits, welcome gifts, etc. make your money go further.
Elevates Your Status - Anyone can find a cheap rate booking through an OTA (online travel agency) like Booking.com, etc. I’ve done it myself. What you don’t know is a traveler hierarchy is created based on WHERE you booked, and booking with these sites puts you at the bottom. Why? Because suppliers (hotels/cruises) pay OTAs up to 25% commission (an advisor makes 10%). So while the rate is cheaper for you, it’s expensive for the supplier and generates a lower profit. And if a problem arises customer service can be minimal, with the supplier and the OTA pointing at each other to fix it. Working with an advisor immediately elevates your importance. You are recognized as a discerning traveler who cares about the overall experience, not just price. In addition, suppliers know that servicing travelers booked through an advisor has consequences beyond one trip. The combination of these two factors immediately makes you a VIP.
Peace of Mind- Changes, cancellations and on-site issues can happen at any time, creating stress when you least expect it. Working with an advisor gives you a powerful advocate who will work on your behalf to correct these situations before and during your trip. Relying on them to handle these headaches leaves you plenty of time to concentrate on important things, like what to pack or whether your first drink will be a spicy margarita or chilled glass of rose:)
Vacations offer a much-needed time-out in life, with benefits ranging from stress relief, personal growth and reconnecting with loved ones. Partnering with a travel advisor unlocks the full potential of this special time without the burden of planning. It’s a simple indulgence you may never have thought you needed but, once experienced, becomes an invaluable part of your travel experience.