Part 5 of Series: 101 Reasons to Use a Travel Agent

Part 5 of Series: 101 Reasons to Use a Travel Agent

Having a travel professional in your “pocket” allows you to find out about things that may not be widely publicized or may be so limited in availability that when you do find out – it’s too late. Case in point, one of my top suppliers immediately sent out an email to those of us who book Major Sporting Event packages to let us know what they had available for the Masters’ once Tiger Woods announced he would be playing. It is these types of situations that travel professionals are able to know about, and pass on the information to their clients who may have expressed interest in attending these types of events when made available/accessible to the general public.

• Where to Go to Avoid Kids - Want to go somewhere without children running all over the place? A travel agent can help you to find excellent retreats that are open to adults only.
  

• Good Senior Trips - Need a trip with a good balance of sightseeing, and rest and relaxation? Travel agents can help lucky retirees you to plan great extended trips that are senior-friendly for those lucky retirees.
  

• Student Discounts - Some travel agents are an excellent go to source for students looking to go on discounted trips.
  
  
• Exotic Adventures - Travel experts can help to recommend great once in a lifetime experiences. They can help you to find the best/safest shark cages to dive into and the highest free fall bungees to jump off.
  
  
• Great Deals without Sitting at a Time Share Presentation - Want an affordable trip to Florida without having to sit through a timeshare presentation? A travel agent can help you to exceptional deals without the stipulations.
  

*Source: American Society of Travel Agents

(www.chicksthattrip.com)

TMI

TMI (Too Much Information)


Anybody who travels a lot has probably run across this, and I'm not talking about the slightly (or overly) inebriated gentleman or lady that you meet at the bar who overshares their personal information! I'm talking about that person who is sitting next to you on the plane. Regardless if they are talking to you; on their cell phone, or talking to the person next to them, there is TMI being inadvertently shared with those within hearing distance.

I know that some people really don't care that everybody is being subjected (tortured) by every intimate detail of their personal life, but quite frankly people are sharing information in close confines, that I'm certain they wouldn't want their colleagues, friends or family to even know about...or maybe I'm wrong???

I've been subjected to hearing about horrible divorce proceedings; birthing tricks/conceiving options; woes of bankruptcies; graphic details of health issues, and much more that quite honestly I can't remember. I think our society has been desensitized by common decency around privacy, because most individuals probably don't even think twice about having entire, intimate conversations within earshot of others, or with complete strangers. Well, I'm one of the few that is NOT interested in all of the personal going ons with complete strangers. I think some things should remain sacred and shouldn't be discussed aboard a plane; especially since there is no where you can run in order to get away from overhearing these conversations. You are stuck. Period.

I guess this is something I will have to get used to since every personal detail of a person’s life is essentially a "point & click" a way.


*photo taken from www.wisebread.com/.../whispering-small.jpg

(www.chicksthattrip.com)

Part 4 of Series: 101 Reasons to Use a Travel Agent

Part 4 of Series: 101 Reasons to Use a Travel Agent

Just recently I had a client who had to cancel a trip. It's not fun when a client has to cancel, but that's the nature of the business - life happens. The person is great, so I have no doubt they will plan another trip soon, so that makes me feel good. The thing that was interesting was a comment that was made to me by this individual, "It's great that I don't have to track down and call all over the place. It's wonderful working with you, because I only have to call one place and everything is taken care of for me. I know there are times I can book on my own, but I just love your personalized attention - you really know how to take care of people."

That is the biggest compliment anyone could have paid me...well, short of booking a trip.

• Confusing International Connecting Flights - Avoid International Flight Confusion travel specialists can help organize those confusing international flights that the internet search engines don’t cover.


• Where to Go With Kids - Travel agents can help you to find great locations that are kid- friendly.


• Trip Cancellation - Something has come up and you need to cancel your trip? If you have used a travel agent they are the only person you need to call.


• Travel Insurance - With all the countless options for travel insurance these days, it can become confusing. A travel agent can help you pick which package works best for your needs.


• Personalized Trips - A travel agent can prepare you a personalized trip based on where you want to go and what you want to do. They won’t give you generic website trips that are posted because the destinations are being pushed during a slow season.

*Source: American Society of Travel Agents

http://www.chicksthattrip.com/

GO AWAY!

I mean no disrespect, but go somewhere. All I hear everyday is how bad the economy is...nobody is spending any money...everyone is losing jobs...everyone is going crazy, but they aren't going AWAY!

Quite frankly I am sick to death of all of the naysayers expounding on all the negativity around us. Guess what, we will all persevere and we will be ok. It won't be fun, pretty or necessarily the time of our lives, but we will be ok. With all of that being said...GO AWAY!

Get in your car and do a "staycation" at a lovely Inn or Resort in your town. If you have a little extra money, go to another state, and for those who are just really living large - leave the country! Just go somewhere. The most cathartic times of our lives can be when we leave our everyday existence and try something different and extraordinary.

All too often people will put off until tomorrow, what they can do today or because of the economy, they don't even want to plan for tomorrow. Guess what, if you don't live today, you aren't guaranteed a tomorrow. I'm not trying to be morbid or condescending, but I know from experience that you are only truly living life by being an active participant in life!

Along this same vain, I am starting my preliminary plotting for the wine vineyards I'll be visiting this Spring, Summer and Fall in Colorado. I'm getting out and going, so I hope to see some of you out there going too!

www.chicksthattrip.com

*photo provided by that Chick Té from her lovely trip to Paris, France.

BEHOLD HAWAII!!!!

"Behold Hawaii" was one of the first movies I ever saw at the IMAX theater when it was first built. Anybody who has ever been to the IMAX knows that the screen is gigantic and simply - awesome. Watching that movie at a very young age left a huge impression on me, and from the moment the movie started I almost stopped breathing. The crashing waves and varying hues of the most beautiful ocean I had ever seen, but nothing could compare to my real life experience.

A couple of years ago, me and a few friends went to Kauai. They all thought it was unbelievable that out all of the places I'd been, I had never been to Hawaii. I guess you could say I took it for granted. When I travel I like to go to far away, exotic places. Not to say Hawaii isn't far enough away (trust me, that plane ride proves just how far away it is); and it definitely fits the bill of being exotic...I guess I just thought, "Oh well, it's a part of the U.S., so I can go anytime."

BOY, I was really missing out. The moment we stepped off the plane in Honolulu and I felt that languid breeze blow over me, I knew I was going to love it there. We jumped on another plane to fly over to Kauai, and I said to myself, "Self - you could hole up and write here." The relaxed nature of the extremely friendly natives (yes, me and my friends were invited by a complete stranger to celebrate Labor Day at their house with friends); the great food, the delicious fragrance of the night blooming jasmine, and of course - the ocean, were all more than I could have ever dreamed.

I had so many memorable moments while I was vacationing there, but one of the most memorable was on a Friday evening. We took a sunset cruise and one of the passengers leaned over and said to me, "Friday Happy Hours will never be the same after this experience!" He was so spot on! The small crew of the "Captain" and his three young, handsome and friendly "Mates" took very good care of us, but the icing on the cake was the opportunity to see the giant Sea Turtles, and the beautiful Dolphins with their babies, who swam along our boat for quite some time before high tailing it out of there before (very predictable) evening showers.

I'm not one of those people that is adverse to going back to the same places again and again, but on the same token, I believe there is so much out there to see and experience, why go back to the same places repeatedly - Hawaii won over my heart. I know several people who own time shares in Hawaii and I can tell you, I can't wait to go back again.
Right now Hawaii is on sale! Some of the best properties are offering wonderful specials to entice people back to traveling again, and with the opening of Donald Trump's newest property, Trump Tower, in Waikiki, I can say that this Chick is chomping at the bit to go back...soon.

Wanderlust is an awesome feeling, so I hope that some of you contact us at Chicks That Trip, so we can get you on your way to Hanalei - you know...where "Puff The Magic Dragon" lives.

www.chicksthattrip.com

Part 3 of Series: 101 Reasons to Use a Travel Agent

Part 3 of Series: 101 Reasons to Use a Travel Agent

Being a travel professional is just like any other consultative job that people have. We are providing a (much needed) service that is sometimes NOT recognized as being important until it's too late. I say that because there has been a lot of chatter about travel insurance; which is one of those things you wish you had - when you don't have it. Travel insurance has always been something important, but until 2001, a lot of people would forego it as "unnecessary." There was a recent story (in the travel agent community) about a relatively young person who (fortunately) HAD travel insurance and had to use it on a trip when an unexpected (fluke) back injury occurred, and the traveler had to leave the trip earlier than anticipated. They had to make only one call, and that was to their travel professional, and everything else was taken care of with minimal, to any out-of-pocket costs to that person.

Many people are under the impression that working with a travel professional costs a lot of money; it doesn't. While a lot of travel professionals charge a small consultation fee, it is more than earned by the amount of knowledge, research, and time that goes into most itineraries. Also, much like insurance, it's peace of mind. They are there to make the calls that you may not be able to make while you are traveling domestically or abroad. As a travel professional myself, I know that I perform a lot of support to my clients that really aren't "travel related," but helps them to mentally prepare for, and enjoy their vacation.

Perhaps like "Secretary's Day," they will come up with a "Travel Professional's Day"....I can dream can't I????

• Best Value for Your Money Spent - Travel agents can help you to make your dollars go farther while you are away. They have access to finding all sorts of deals ranging from flights to hotels to dinner recommendations.
• Location, Location, Location!!!! - Travel specialists can help you to find a place to stay pretty much anywhere you desire. So if it’s a hotel with a view of the ocean in Hawaii or a jungle hut in the Nigril foothills, a travel agent can help you make it happen.
• Knowledge of All the Ins and Outs - Travel specialists can help bring you up to speed on the local laws and regulations of wherever your travels take you.
• Credentials - Travel agents attend all sorts of seminars and classes to prepare themselves for trip requests like yours, in addition to traveling to many places themselves to be as informed as they can on your places of interest.
• Tourist Attractions - Travel agents can give you a list of all the not-to-miss spots, such as. Like amusement parks, museums, nature preserves, and historical locations etc.

*Source: American Society of Travel Agents

www.chicksthattrip.com

Chef Beau Knows....

OK, I'm throwing in some sports athlete jargon here that, perhaps, may not be known by many...or maybe I'm mistaken. Back in the day the slogan, "Bo Knows," was referring to Bo Jackson. He was a multi-talented athlete who played both football AND baseball. Well, there must be something to that name Beau (or Bo, however, you want to spell it) because they seem to be some talented, multi-tasking individuals!

Beau MacMillan is an exceptional chef who works at Elements restaurant in Paradise Valley, Arizona's, Sanctuary Resort & Spa (yes, I've made reference to this delightful retreat before). I've had the utmost pleasure and opportunity to have ingested more than my fair amount of Chef MacMillan's organic fare - from his succulent sea bass; delicate bacon-wrapped steak; and, tender, organic turkey, served during the Thanksgiving season. On top of that, I've had several birthday parties there, and have partaken of his wonderful "Lunch and Learn" sessions that are hosted throughout the summer months.

I wanted to pay homage to this wonderful chef; especially in light of the new show he is hosting on the Food Network called, "Worst Cooks in America," which he is not. Chef MacMillan is an affable gentleman of great stature, calm demeanor, and self-deprecating humor. He doesn't take himself too seriously, which he should - considering he was not only on the show, "Iron Chef America," but WON the top honors of beating an Iron Chef...yes, the one and only, Bobby Flay.

While so many of us are thinking of dieting, and losing weight for the summer months, I reflect longingly on a piece of seared sea bass prepared so lovingly by Chef MacMillan...hmmm, I may need to take a trip back to Arizona soon! Here's to you Chef MacMillian, I raise a plate of organic, Asian prepared green beans to you!

www.chicksthattrip.com

*Photo taken from: http://www.sanctuaryoncamelback.com/content/elements.html

Part 2 of Series: 101 Reasons to Use A Travel Agent

Part 2 of Series: 101 Reasons to Use a Travel Agent

Recently I was reading an article on this website: http://www.foodvacation.com/id40.html. The article was speaking to the information that is found on websites regarding travel, and in particular the website Trip Advisor. Since I've attached the link to the website, I won't restate the article, but what I will say is that consumers need to be responsible in doing their due diligence when selecting their travel destinations, hotels, and the like, but not to be completely driven by information that is contained within any website. Whether it is the actual hotel website or sites like Trip Advisor, it's important as a consumer to weigh the information and make the best, sound decision possible. I know it can be a daunting task, because there is so much information, but the reverse is true, because some people will use any means they can to undermine another establishment that may otherwise be perfectly acceptable for most, but because they had a poor experience and/or were not given everything they felt they deserved, they may trash the reputation of a hotel, restaurant, etc, and cause irrepairable harm.


In keeping with the series of 101 Reasons to Use a Travel Agent (Source: American Society of Travel Agents - ASTA). I think that the above-mentioned article brings a lot of attention to the fact that you can't believe everything you read or hear; however, when you are working with a professional Travel Agent, there is an assumption that they have a more in-depth and personal experience with a lot of the recommendations that they make. It's important to ask questions and do as much research as possible, but even more importantly, there are a host of Travel Professionals who specialize in specific destinations; therefore, they can provide information that may not be read on internet sites, but can assist you in making your final decision.

• Less Stress Planning - A trip can be stressful. There are so many options and details to worry about. Travel agents do the work, so that means less stress for you.
• Updated Information- Travel agents are in constant communication with the travel community, so they can give you the most up to date info on airlines, hotels, car rental agencies, travel visas, and other travel services to consider etc… as you plan your trip.
• Customer Service -Travel agents offer that “personal touch” to your travel planning experience, offering help and advice that a website cannot provide.
• Travel Documentation - Travel agents can help you to prepare and organize any necessary documents that you may need in order to travel outside of the country. They can direct you to your local passport office, and they know where you need a visa, as well as and any other documentation that you might need along the way.
• Travel Experts Expertise - Many travel agents are considered experts in the area you are traveling to and have probably already been to where you are going.

A vacation is a wonderful experience, and you want to make the best, informed selection possible. Happy trails!

www.chicksthattrip.com

The Beginning of Something Great!

Something about a rainbow always seems to give me a sense of hope, renewal and opportunity. I know the definition of a rainbow is the refraction/reflection of the sun, etc, but I feel like it's a universal symbol. Whether I'm standing in my back yard here in the United States, or someone is looking at a rainbow in their part of world; I believe it is never seen with negative connotations, but something that transcends words and gives people a warm and fuzzy feeling.

I've heard small children who didn't even speak English; squeal with delight and point at a rainbow in the sky. While I couldn't know exactly what was being spoken; I could tell by their happiness and giant smiles that they were excited and perplexed by the phenomenal vision.

Travel to me is like a rainbow. It gives me a feeling that is inexplicable, yet comforting. Despite airport security delays, baggage cost increases, and the endless list of negatives that are bombarding our media surrounding travel these days, I still feel a grand sense of adventure and anticipation when I board a plane; fly to my predetermined destination; descend, and look upon my new surroundings. There is an awesomeness to gaze upon something you've always read about and then are standing in front of and admiring. The Mona Lisa in the Louvre is one of those experiences for me, but I felt the same way when a family of dolphins flanked the boat I was on, while on vacation in Hawaii. There is this swelling sense of excitement to be doing or seeing something that is a shared experience among many walks of life - those that were there before you, and those who will come after you.

We are currently promoting a wonderful trip to Provence & Paris, which is a "Celebration of Julia Child in 'Her' Paris & Provence." I watched the movie, "Julie & Julia" a few weeks ago, and I was intrigued by the storyline of a young woman writing a blog about a woman who inspired her to cook. Julia Child has been an icon in the food world for years. Watching the movie and seeing Meryl Streeps' exceptional embodiment of Julia Child was refreshing, funny and quite charming. I imagine that filming this movie in France was a channeling of sorts for Meryl Streep. I can't know this for certain, but to be in the places where Julia Child lived, ate, and drank, could only add to the energy and passion that was displayed in Streeps' performance.

Traveling is my rainbow, and I can't wait to experience more of that feeling this year. I hope more of you embrace travel and go out to find your own rainbow.

(www.chicksthattrip.com)

Part 1 of Series: 101 Reasons to Use A Travel Agent

Part 1 of Series: 101 Reasons to Use a Travel Agent

There are a lot of questions that travelers have in this day and age; especially since the TSA and airlines seem to change the rules on a daily basis! First and foremost, I think security is extremely important, so if that means they delay my flight so I don't fall or get shot out of the air, I'm all for it; unfortunately, there are many people who may agree with that in theory, but when they are traveling, they don't want to hear about delays of any sort. Over the next few weeks, I will post some of the 101 Reasons to Use a Travel Agent (Source: American Society of Travel Agents - ASTA).

I hope these reasons can shed some insight into the invaluable service travel professionals can provide. Granted, just like in any industry, there are those who are neither knowledgeable, nor professional about the job they do, but I can say from meeting countless travel professionals over the past year - some are on the ball and go above and beyond. It makes me proud to be a part of a community that values their commitment to provide others with the best leisure or business travel experience possible; despite all of the nuisances that have come into the fray over the past ten years. I want people to travel; whether it's in their own backyard (so to speak) or abroad. I want people to get out and get going! People may not enjoy everywhere they go, but at least they can say they have been, and then NEVER go back!

• Convenient One Stop Shopping - Travel agents can handle every aspect of your trip from airline tickets to lodging, ground transportation car rental, activities, tours and more.
  
• Consumer Advocate - If you should have a problem during your trip, travel agents can act on your behalf to see that proper restitution's are made.

• Expert Guidance - Travel agents are experts in helping travelers get where they need to go and helping to open up possibilities most people never would have dreamed were possible.

• Save Time - Avoid the headaches and let the travel agents call around and do all the time consuming work of looking for prices, activities, and flights for you planning a complex itinerary.

• Choice - Travel agents offer you an array of options and price quotes from a variety of travel suppliers, giving you the upper hand when making your final travel decisions.

www.chicksthattrip.com