Resources

A frequent question we get asked is what does it cost to obtain our services? We get paid in commission from the hotels, airlines and other vendors we work with, therefore, our service is of no cost to you. Our knowledge and expertise of the travel industry resources allows us to pass along these savings to you! *Detailed/multi-stop trip itineraries may be charged a service fee due to length of time required for comprehensive planning efforts

While Online Travel Agencies (OTA’s) such as Expedia, Kayak, Travelocity etc. can offer bulk deals, they are not able to access consolidated rates travel advisors can with hotels, airlines and other vendors. We have access to different systems as registered agents, to offer clients the best prices the general public cannot access on their own. We also offer security. You may be out of luck with needing to cancel when booking through an OTA, where we can help ensure a credit or refund. We also offer trip assistance. Now more than ever with COVID-19 impacting travel and other ongoing worldwide events, we assist with being aware of the ever changing country-based COVID-19 requirements and ensure the impact of delays/cancellations are as minimal as possible. Need assistance and you booked through an OTA? You’ll be forced to sit in a call cue with long wait times to obtain help. As travel advisors, we are available to assist you in handling any issue that may occur pre, during and post travel.

To quote Susan Sontag, “I haven’t been everywhere but it’s on my list.” Research plays a large component on what makes a good travel advisor. We have direct access to the representatives for the vendors to provide us most up-to-date information, as well as, direct access to assist with troubleshooting and help with special accommodations. We have access to countless seminars, trainings, and webinars to keep us abreast of what’s new in the industry. And we’re also a team! Team effort allows us to bounce ideas off of each other and share in our expertise and knowledge. This knowledge and experience is based on the feedback we obtain from our clients but also as regular consumers of travel. utilize each other

In short, the sooner the better! It is rare to be able to obtain a last minute airfare for cheap. Airlines typically release flights 9-11 months ahead of schedule. Best rates tend to be several months prior to your departure. We have a system that allows us to access all potential flight options from Point A to Point B to offer you the most efficient route at the best rate.

As travel advisors, we have local contacts for all of our vendors to help ensure all of your needs will be met during your travel to/from and throughout your trip. Whether it be needing assistance with differing mobility accommodations or other ADA needs, traveling with an individual with a developmental or intellectual disability or other health needs such as, allergies or dietary restrictions, we will assist.

Answers to these questions are not inclusive. Travel is an adventure and with any adventure there may come unexpected surprises. When you come to a travel agency for help in planning your trip, your partnership with your travel advisor will provide you the best experience to be as prepared as possible to offer ease of mind during your travels.

This information is ever changing; for latest information click here. For international travels, consider visiting the country’s Health of Ministry website for country-specific expectations/requirements.

Length of time to apply for or renew your passport varies, so please plan accordingly. Every country has its own guidelines for what is considered a valid passport. Visit this website for the most accurate information regarding passport applications. Consider checking with the governmental guidelines for the country you plan to visit to obtain the most accurate information on passport validation and entry requirements.

Each airline varies as to weight and size of what is accepted for your carry-on and checked baggage. Click on our airline links to help ensure you have the most accurate information for your airline of choice.

At the very least, a Government Issued Photo ID will be needed for flying domestically or when checking in for your hotel reservation. Passports, birth certificates or visas will vary depending on location for international travel destinations.

I’ve booked my trip, now what? Are excursions booked? We can help you enhance your trip by coordinating excursions, activities and experiences to make for an unforgettable trip. One month to several weeks prior, we watch for airline changes. If we notice any significant changes that will cause increased travel time, we will assist you in making changes to ensure you are the most efficient flight possible. 1-2 weeks prior, we will review all travel plan details including transfers, flight times, hotel check-in/check-out times, excursion requirements (require closed toed shoes? Certain clothing?)