Agent vs Online

Book Your Travel Online.

Huh?  Did I really just  say that?  Not only say it out loud but actually put it in writing?  Me... someone who has dedicated their career to upholding the benefits of using a travel consultant?  Yup, I sure did! You have to know that I'm not going to just leave it at that simple statement.  I need to explain WHY I'm saying go ahead and book your own travel online.

How many times have you heard someone say to you any of the following:

• Oh you should go to XYZ, it's amazing and you'd love it!
• We stayed at the ABC hotel and it was the best ever!
• Don't fly with that airline.  They delayed our travel for 2 hours and they are the worst.
• This is a great cruiseline.  The kids has so much fun ziplining across the pool and trying the flo-rider.

Everyone seems to think they can research the best experience or that they know better.  Opinions and experiences from friends and family or random unknown people on sites such as tripadvisor are really great to give you some direction.  Truly they great to give an overview and set you on a path BUT...that's where it ends.  There is so much more to crafting the perfect holiday and checking off boxes (known as aggregates) can not possibly replace the human connection and intuition. My new favorite mantra is:

"Please don't think that your google search will ever replace my 30 years of education, knowledge and experience."

In this current day and age when everything is available at your fingertips or news is spread like wildfire through social media, an incredible (read: overwhelming) amount of information is right there with a few key strokes.

Let's say as an example, that you are thinking about going on an all-inclusive holiday.  You do a google search typing in "the best all inclusive resorts".  Google proceeds to do it's thing and comes up with 121 MILLION options (no exaggeration) for suggestions of "the best all inclusive resorts".  Don't believe me about the 121 Million results?  Try it for yourself but I've also included a screenshot for the nay sayers. 

Seriously? 121,000,000 - how can there possibly be THAT many of THE best?  Who has time to go through all those options and start weeding through the seemingly limitless possibilities?  Certainly not your average traveler and I'd venture to say not even an extraordinary traveler! 

Que the experienced travel consultant to the rescue!  It's our job to filter through the noise and by working with the client, by asking questions that lend us insight we begin to narrow the options to ones that are geared to fit that particular client.  We can help define what your ideal vacation looks like and then find the appropriate solutions.  With a simple conversation we are able to quickly garner what it is you want from your holiday.  Is it relaxation or do you want non-stop nightlife? Maybe there is a focus on well-being? Do you want adventure, are you looking for exceptional culinary experiences or are you a history buff? Maybe you have a love for architecture or are celebrating a milestone life event?  There is no one perfect holiday that is suited to everyone.  No one size fits all vacation package.  What your friend said was the worst, may very well be an ideal option based on your own needs.  Or, that cruiseline your co-worker's sister-in-law went with may have been great for her family with teenage boys but may not be something the next person would enjoy when their image is of a smaller, more intimate ship with casual but elegant service as they celebrate their 40th wedding anniversary.  The point is that everyone has a different vision, different needs, different expectations and it is our job to provide options based on all this criteria.  Our goal is to offer a much more manageable number of ideas rather than 121 million that google suggests as THE best for your holiday.

Can you book your own travel online?  Sure - of course you can... and you may very well have a wonderful vacation!  By the same token you can also google your medical symptoms!  WebMD may take that ache or pain, turn it into full blown doom and gloom and will have you quickly getting your affairs in order as it suggests you have a serious, life ending condition.  Is your google search really a replacement for seeking medical advise and attention?  Or what about doing your own taxes?  Can you do those yourself?  Certainly, by all means you can do your own taxes and you may even net a decent refund in the end!  Is there any possibility that you might actually miss out on what could have been an even greater refund?  Absolutely!  There is no way that someone who does a handful of taxes each year can possibly know as much as a professional who deals with this on a daily basis.  It is very unlikely that you know all the tax benefits, loopholes, credits etc.  On all accounts, I think it's best left to the pros!

Now I can hear it already!  Someone will say "But I can get a better deal online".  Well ...actually you can't! The price, is the price, is the price.  The airline, cruiseline, tour operator, hotel/resort, car rental provides the pricing to us, the travel agent. We sell the product at exactly the same rates you would find online. <gasp> Really?  How can that be?  How ever would you stay in business?  Well, it's simple system and on as old as time.  They pay us a commission to sell their product.  To elaborate further, that commission whether paid to us or not, would not change the selling price to you, the client, regardless of where or how you book (directly with the tour operator, airline, online, storefront travel agency, or home based agent) the pricing will all be the same.  

Not to keep beating the same drum but..... if a Sunwing package to Mexico is $1249 including taxes per person through any online travel agency (more on that later) or directly on the tour operator website then you can be 100% assured that this is the price a travel agency will also sell it to the client for.  Most people do not realize that the Big Dogs - the Expedias or Redtags of the world  - are simply travel agencies...online versions... but still travel agencies all the same.  Yes, they are "online" rather than storefront or homebased but all that means is that you have to do everything online and you can never have a face-to-face conversation even if you wanted to.  They, like every other travel agency, sell the packages that are provided by the tour operators at the price the tour operators set. Again, don't believe me?  The proof is in the pudding!

As travel consultants, we have not just our own extensive personal travel experience from which to draw on but also feedback from thousands of clients.  We are also able to utilize a variety of tools that are not always available to the average consumer. We bring added value by being able to plan activities in destination, knowing the better seat on the aircraft, or maybe even being able to arrange a special upgrade or surprise during that cruise or resort stay.  Travel agents are trained to examine the fine details, to look for gaps and provide solutions that fit.  Travel is unique and there should be nothing cookie cutter about your buying experience.

And how many times have you had something go off the rails with your travel plans?  A missed connection, a flight delay, cancellation due to weather, an emergency?  Yes, that's life and life isn't always perfect.  Things do happen that are sometimes out of our control (out of your control as a traveler as well as mine as an agent).  That said, would you prefer to go it alone because you did your own arrangements or know that there is someone in your corner helping out as best they can?  As I type this on a Sunday afternoon, I chuckle to myself - not because I find flight cancellations or problems entertaining - it's the exact opposite actually!  I'm grinning to myself because in the span of the past 24 hours I've had 3 different clients contact me because they have hit a road block and needed help.  For me, I'd far rather the client reach out to me for assistance than work themselves into a frenzy or loose precious holiday time.

Client 1 - Is having such a great time they decided they wanted to

stay a little longer in their destination so would I make the necessary arrangements to extend their air, accommodation and car rental.  

• All of the above is done and communicated with the client,     documentation delivered and the client lost only 3 minutes of      their vacation by reaching out to ask me to look after the arrangements.

Client 2 - Her husband is currently in the Emergency Room and they are to depart for their 1 week vacation in just a matter of hours. She was unclear on her cancellation coverage and didn't want read through all the insurance options but wondered what to do, are the covered if they need to cancel and how to make a claim

• A quick phone conversation and the client now understands the various options available to them and can focus on her husband and not worry about what to do next.

Client 3 - There is a terrible weather system moved in and the client's flight home for today has been cancelled.  The airline is  telling them they will have to wait and extra 48 hours and take a routing that has them flying here, there and everywhere.  

• A few text messages later, and the client has been rebooked without them having to be on hold for over an hour with the airline.  They are now on a direct non stop flight that has them home earlier than what the airline provided.

In each of these cases, I ask you, what was it worth to the client to know that they were able to just make a phone call or send a text to have this looked after without loosing valuable time and without added stress?

On a weekly basis travel agents continue their education by upgrading knowledge and professional development.  Our experience along with the vast network of suppliers around the globe make an agent  the best investment in corporate travel, complex around the world airfare, all inclusive destinations, customized holidays from an African safari to a honeymoon in the South Pacific, to the adventurous trek in Nepal. We have a wealth of experience in destination weddings and family holidays from Disney to Harry Potter tours.  The value and multitude of positives that working with an agent can bring to the overall travel experience is second to none.  A travel professional continues to learn and never stops developing their skills and training to assist their clients. We develop relationships with hoteliers and tour operators so that when we don't know the answer to your questions, we can reach out to the person who does.

I am local.  I am available to answer your questions or meet with you.  I'm one of the many local businesses who support various initiatives in your community that you enjoy.  I am supporting the local charities, services, sporting events and more that help make your community a great place to live in!  You are my neighbor and friend.  Can you say the same about your online booking engine?  Do you know their names or how to reach them like the clients above?

So, do you still feel travel is best looked after in your own hands?  If so, then very likely nothing I say will change your opinion.  If you are of that belief the please, by all means, go ahead and book online! Happy travels.

The Great Migration - Kenya & Tanzania

Do you dream of witnessing the greatest show on Earth? Of hearing the sheer power of millions of thundering hooves? Of coming face-to-face with mighty predators? Of losing yourself in the wild savannas of Kenya and Tanzania? If so, the welcome to the Greatest Show on Earth!  No, I don't mean the Calgary Stampede (although it's a spectacle to behold!)  I'm talking about the phenomenal sight of the Great Migration through Kenya and Tanzania.  1.5 million wildebeest thundering and snorting their way across the annual 1,200 mile circular path.  This is the origin of safari - the ultimate safari experience and an awesome sprint of survival.

No one can explain the highlights, sites and sounds more than an article I read recently by Sky Blue Vickie (Vickie Paget):

Where does the Great Migration take place?

In Tanzania the wildebeest move through the Serengeti; while in Kenya, they pass through the Masai Mara. Both landscapes provide a truly dramatic backdrop to the greatest show on Earth.

What wildlife can you expect to see during the Great Migration?

The wildebeest are joined by approximately 200,000 zebra and 35,000 gazelle. A whole host of hungry predators follow in their wake: lion, vulture, cheetah and crocodiles—all drooling at the thought of picking off a tasty tired migrator or two. Only the strongest survive this brutal journey, and it’s estimated that some 250,000 wildebeest don’t make it each year.

Why is the Great Migration such a sight to behold?

Witnessing nature at her most raw and powerful is a truly humbling experience—some would even say it’s life-changing. You will never forget the frenetic sound of millions of hooves trampling across the savanna, kicking up dust storms as they race towards survival. It’s a heart-thumping, ground-trembling, primal display of the overwhelming power of Mother Nature.

When does the Great Migration begin?

Nature likes to keep us on our toes, so the exact timing of the migration changes from year to year, as it depends upon rainfall patterns. However, experience shows that this incredible endurance race usually begins when the herd reaches Tanzania’s Ngorongoro Conservation Area in the south Serengeti to graze in November/December. Wildebeest calving season takes place there between January and March, which brings with it a lot of hungry predators, all hoping to chow-down on some wildebeest babies.

Why do the wildebeest leave Ngorongoro?

The rainy season in Ngorongoro comes to an end in April/May and the wildebeest begin their epic journey across the Serengeti to the greener grass plains of Kenya’s Masai Mara to the north. May is also mating season for the wildebeest, so the males begin to fight fiercely for female attention—adding even more staggering, stomping showmanship to the spectacle that is the Great Migration.

What are the most dramatic stages of the Great Migration?

Watching the wildebeest attempt to cross the two rivers on the Great Migration route are undoubtedly the most dramatic stages of this heart-in-your-throat journey. In June, the herd reaches the Grumeti River in Serengeti National Park. For many of these already-exhausted animals, this is a river too far, and they fall fowl to the river’s hungry crocodiles. Those who do make it then have to go on and cross the Mara River, where they’re faced with strong currents and even more crocodiles that are eagerly awaiting their annual wildebeest feast. As Mother Nature picks off the weakest in the herd, you witness a brutal, literal display of the survival of the fittest.

When do the wildebeest reach Masai Mara?

Having fought their way along the treacherous migration route, the strongest of the herd finally hit the luscious plains of the Masai Mara some time in August/September. But the battle for survival doesn’t stop there. The plains may be overflowing with herds of grazing wildebeest, zebra and gazelle, but wherever these animals go, they are hotly pursued by a whole host of predators, and there are always lions and hyenas lurking in the shadows, waiting for their next meal.

When do the herds return to Ngorongoro?

As the rains return south around October/November, the herd continues on its circular route back down to their calving grounds in Tanzania. When calving season kicks off again between January and March, the circle of life is complete and yet another Great Migration gets underway.

U.S. Invasion

This past winter season saw an upswing in the sale of vacation packages to Cuba.  In my own opinion, it was largely due to the announcement that soon, Americans will be able to travel freely to and from Cuba.  March 20, 2016, was the first visit by a US president to Cuba in 88 years marking the beginning of the end!

Several U.S. air carriers, including United, Delta and American Airlines have submitted applications to approval to fly directly from the States into Cuba and service may begin as early as fall of 2016.  Cruiselines such as Carnival have also began the necessary steps for approval to offer a seven day 'cultural exchange'.  The work around for the current travel restrictions is that Americans must spend at least eight hours each day involved in some type of cultural experience.  This is not to say that sitting at an all-inclusive resort chatting up the bar tender over mojitos would qualify as a 'cultural experience'!

With the influx of American tourists wanting to taste the forbidden fruit, so to speak, it will suddenly increase the demand for accommodations and other amenities on the island.  For the most part these have been in short supply and notably lacking the luxurious amenities and services many of the other Caribbean destinations and resorts.  Many hotel chains are scrambling to get out in front and begin renovations and rebranding to bring experiences more in line with that of their brands in locations such as Mexico and Dominican Republic.  This sort of undertaking does not happen overnight however hoteliers such as Starwood have already begun the task set before them with hopes of completion before the end of 2016.

For American tourists, this all sounds well and good, but one can't help but wonder what it all means for Canadian travelers.  For many years, Canadians have been accustomed to essentially having Cuba all to ourselves so exactly how the "new" Americanized Cuba will look remains to be seen.  Certainly increased demand will mean a boost to the local Cuban economy and enhanced infrastructure but it's a double edged sword for the budget conscious traveler.  Hotel companies will want to maximize their return on their investments so an upward pressure on overall rates would be expected causing an increased cost for Canadian travelers.  In addition to rising vacation prices, Canadians can also expect that in time, a more 'Americanized' look and feel to the island and it's cities will be inevitable.  The prospect of having McDonald's golden arches and Starbucks on every corner seems to have Canadians flocking to Cuba to get in one last visit before the transformation takes place. 

No one can be certain what the new Cuba will look like or ultimately cost in the long run but one thing most Canadian travelers seem to agree on is that change is coming.  I for one, hope Cuba is able to maintain it's authenticity and charm.

Visit Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada!

Winnipeg, at the heart of Canada, has a lot to offer and to give you a brief overview of some of the fantastic things to experience, here is a sampling!



Publish Post

Safe Destinations for Solo Female Travellers

As a travel consultant, I'm often asked  where it's safe for women to travel on there own or with one or two other women. Here are 10 of what I consider to be some of the safest destinations for  female travelers!
 

1. ICELAND

Even though Iceland’s nickname of “The Land of Fire & Ice” sounds intimidating, solo travel is totally comfortable and easy here. The city of Reykjavik is famous for its music scene and nightlife, so you’ll have no problem meeting locals and fellow travelers. There are countless reasons to visit Iceland but it’s her natural beauty that steals the show for most everyone.

 

2. SCANDINAVIA

The countries of Denmark, Norway and Sweden are filled with amazing architecture and beautiful sights. Forget about Disneyland, Norway and Denmark have even been ranked as the #1 and #2 happiest places in the world!

 

3. NEW ZEALAND

Adventure awaits in the glaciers, beaches and fiords of New Zealand. In New Zealand, you’ll come across some of the most beautiful landscapes in the world.  With 2 very different islands to discover, there is something for all women travelling in New Zealand.

 

 

 

4. COSTA RICA

The sandy beaches and rainforests of Costa Rica are the perfect scenery for a solo trip in the sun. Whether you’re looking for a surf safari down the Nicoya Peninsula or a yoga retreat in Nosara, there’s something for every type of solo female traveler.

 

5.  IRELAND

Ireland may not be known for the best weather, but the Emerald Isle is a place of happiness and beer. Cozy up in a local pub, catch a football game or head out to the countryside for an incredible Irish experience.

 

6. SOUTHEAST ASIA

Southeast Asia will never be lacking in awesome things to do. Going to Thailand on your own will give you so many opportunities to explore beautiful beaches, enjoy delicious street food and take in the unbelievable scenery of the mainland. It’s a great destination for both budget and luxury travelers, with inexpensive accommodation as well as 5-star resorts.

 

7.  CRUISE

While it’s not a specific destination, a cruise in any part of the world is a great travel experience for solo female travelers. Enjoy the convenience of an itinerary and secure accommodation. Unpack once and arrive at multiple destinations without having to book flights or accommodation.

 

8.  AMSTERDAM

Known around the world for its liberal lifestyle and super chilled out vibe, Amsterdam is an amazing place to hang out on your own. The canals are yours to explore as you discover the unique culture and nightlife of the city. Rent a bike and run into (not literally of course) some friendly and laid back Dutch locals.

 

9.  BALI

Temples, yoga, relaxing beaches and inexpensive food & accommodation are just a few reasons why Bali is the ultimate solo female travel destination. With a great backpacking culture for young people, budget travelers will always find someone to hang out with. And with all those beautiful beaches, you bet there are some incredible resorts for a little bit of luxe if that's what you'd rather.

 

10.  CANADA

Nearly everywhere you go in Canada, you’ll be surrounded by multiculturalism and some of the most breathtaking landscapes your eyes have ever seen. Canadians have a reputation for being friendly so strick up a conversation and you'll see for yourself!

 

#WPGWhiteout  #GoJetsGo

 

The excitement and energy at the MTS Centre for the 3rd game of  round one of the 2015 Stanley Cup playoffs  had fans showing their true colors!  It is precisely this pride that is putting Winnipeg on the map as a city to visit!

 

Most of my professional time is spent sending clients to other destinations outside of this wonderful province of Manitoba but this most recent #JetsFever has me realizing just how much we have to offer, not only within Winnipeg but throughout the province.  Everywhere you look right now, the province is displaying their belief in their team.  We even took part here at Travel Quest, as did the town of Gimli!  Perfect strangers have united to rally behind this hockey club and in my opinion, what could be better than bringing people together to celebrate!

 

From the great arctic safari's of Churchill to the diverse culture of Folklorama, the historic Forks or the sand dunes of Spruce Woods, this province has incredible offerings for everyone! Visit the Human Rights Museum, a world class and an architectural marvel, or experience the fall migration at Oak Hammock Marsh. Try golfing, fishing, Portage Potato Festival, camping, Blue Bomber game, Morden Corn and Apple Festival, dragon boating, Assiniboine Park, a picnic, Folkfest or maybe the Prairie Ripples Art tour!   It's all right here...in Manitoba...a province packed with pride!  And to think, it all started with a #GoJetsGo!!

Destination Weddings

Congratulations!  You've chosen each other and will be tying the knot! 

Live an unforgettable day in an absolutely magic setting surrounded by those who mean the most to you.  If that sounds wonderful but you're beginning to feel overwhelmed by the endless array of destinations, documentation, flower choices and so on, that's were you need the help of an expert! 

A Destination Wedding Specialist will be able to sit down and speak with you about the many options available to couples these days.  Together, we will be able to focus in on a few key destinations that have the vibe and feel you're after for your dream day and weigh the pros and cons of each. A DWS has planned and worked with resorts and venues literally around the world so the ability to remain impartial and realistic is paramount. You are able to benefit from their knowledge, expertise and relationships that have been built throughout the industry.

A Destination Wedding Specialist does differ somewhat from a Travel Consultant in that every aspect of your wedding from airfare, accommodation, documents, the wedding ceremony, decorations and often even right down to the menu.  Specialists do charge an additional fee to arrange and manage all of these details but it's certainly worth it to ensure all is seamlessly cared for.  In our opinion, it's well worth it!


And speaking of budgets and money matters, let's do some math.  Couples are often spending thousands and thousands of dollars creating their magical day and find themselves exhausted with the process. 


Cost
Home - Average cost: $25,000
Destination - Average cost: $5,000

Venue
Home - Ceremony, photos and celebration typically at different locations
Destination - Everything typically takes place at one location

Duration
Home - One day celebration
Destination - Week- long celebration

Planning
Home - Stressful and time consuming especially as it leads up to the big day
Destination - Wedding coordinators, destination wedding specialists and consultants manage all of the details

Honeymoon
Home - Additional savings and planning required
Destination - Begins upon your arrival

Ultimately, if you decide a destination wedding is right for you, it's important to work with a professional you feel comfortable with.  The options are only limited by imagination but your travel professional is there to make everything you dream about, come true!