Q. Are there affordable ways to travel in today’s economy?
A. Our travel savvy clients are seeing opportunities.
Falling oil prices are having a positive impact on the cost of travel. For example, some cruise lines are now rolling back fuel surcharges they had previously instituted, and we’re hopeful that airlines will follow suit.
The cruise lines are doing everything they can to fill their ships, which means there are great values out there. There are some extreme value vacations, 2-for-1 offers, and/or opportunities to upgrade to a category your client may not have been able to afford in the past.
Many tour companies use price guarantees – allowing travelers to pay in advance and lock in their price even if the cost of travel goes up.
In general, hotels and resorts are offering better pricing.
Q. Are there any benefits in the current travel environment?
A. Travel is easier.
Airport congestion is down significantly due to the airlines’ recent reductions in flights, making security screening more efficient.
Many tour and cruise line companies are doing everything they can to lure customers, such as extending deposit deadlines or being flexible on final payment dates (even during the holidays); reducing the cost of deposits; offering early booking discounts; and offering more perks to travelers, such as free upgrades, free spa treatments, other amenities or onboard ship credits.
Q. What can a travel agent do for me that I can’t do for myself?
A. Travel agents are ensuring clients are getting the most bang for their buck.
With all the dramatic changes to the travel landscape, we can provide our clients with peace-of-mind in knowing that they’re getting the most value for their hard-earned dollar.
You can spend hours looking for the best deal on the Internet, but why not leave it up to a professional who can make certain you’re getting the best value, both in terms of what you’re paying and what you’re looking for in a vacation?
In addition to saving you time, Cruise Holidays of Mission Viejo can save you money by utilizing several cost-saving techniques, for example:
There are certain vacation wholesalers that only work with travel agents; using bulk pricing such as this is an excellent way to save money.
Travel agents will proactively contact their clients with details on specials and promotions that will speak to the needs of their interests and pocketbooks.
Travel agents work with travel suppliers that have been thoroughly vetted based on the quality and financial stability of that company; why risk booking a vacation on the Internet if you aren’t sure a property or cruise line won’t live up to expectations when you arrive?
Travel agents can work with their clients to determine if they should get insurance to protect them from cancellation penalties or vendor default.
