Travel Agents Still Exist?

When I told people about my new career as a travel agent, the response was often the same. With a look of shock and confusion they ask, "They still exist?" Not only do travel agents still exist, but they are thriving! Yes, you can plan and book your own travel these days. But that doesn't mean you should. I tried to paint my bathroom. It's okay. I could have gotten a better finished product if I had hired a professional. Plus, I could have saved myself a lot of time and aggravation.

Time is precious and there doesn't seem to be enough of it these days. Not everyone has hours to spend researching online. Some people, like me, enjoy investigating properties, but some find the amount of choices out there overwhelming. If you enjoy the research phase, I can aid you as you sift through the plethora of possibilities. If you find vacation planning a chore, I can do it all for you! It is the reason I named my company Vacation Curation. As your consultant, I get to know you and help curate the best trip for YOU from the endless options. While one hotel may be listed as the best on TripAdvisor, it may not be the best fit. Maybe they don't have the connecting rooms needed for a family traveling with young kids or, perhaps, there is another great property closer to the bars and restaurants for the foodie client. 

While looking at hotels is exciting, planning the other logistics is less glamourous. As your Travel Consultant, I'll know if the airport train stops running before your flight and you should take a car or taxi. I can tell you the best ferry to take so that you can spend more time enjoying that island paradise and less time getting there.

Working with a travel agent also helps you avoid the pitfalls of travel. Did you know your passport needs to have 6 months validity after the end of your travels? Do you know what countries require proof of immunizations? These details are often overlooked by DIY travelers and can ruin a vacation when missed. When working with a travel agent, you have a person to go to when your travel plans go awry. I have rebooked a connection while clients were still in the air. I am the one who spends hours on the phone during a snowstorm, not you.

My relationships with the vendors aren't just for bad times. Travel agents have negotiated rates the public doesn't have access to. I can get upgrades and spa credits for my clients. Wouldn't you like to take advantage of that? Please reach out and let Vacation Curation know how we can help with your next trip!