Working with a Travel Agent
I would love to help you plan your next vacation! A lot of people don’t know how a travel agent works. I understand that planning your vacation can be overwhelming. There are a million websites to look at and even more reviews. The choices can be overwhelming. As a travel agent, my job is to navigate this process for you. I will find the best vacation to help you get access to exclusive resources that you wouldn’t otherwise know about. I will bring you personalized service along with my years of travel experience.
#1 – Initial Consultation
In order for me to plan the best possible vacation for you, it is important for me to understand your travel needs and what you need to get out of your vacation to make it successful. We can either have a short phone conversation or you can complete an online travel form so we can begin to explore the type of trip you’d like to plan. This also allows me to learn more about you and your travel style and gives me the ability to provide you with better potential vacation options.
#2 – Travel Inspiration and Options
Within a few days, I will e-mail you a few options that fit your dates, desires, and budget. Ideally, one is perfect, and we move ahead with booking your trip, but with your feedback and guidance, I will be happy to present additional ideas and/or refine the itinerary.
#3 – Select your Trip!
This is the fun part where you can sit down and go through the itineraries, pricing, and options and decide what appeals to you the most. I am available to answer any questions or provide clarity on any details about a resort, tour, etc. to help you make the best decision.
#4 – Leave the Details to Me!
Once you’ve decided on your destination, I handle securing flights, hotels, tours, trains, and transfers to make your trip go smoothly. I will send you an invoice to review, and you will submit your deposit to secure your trip. I handle making the deposit, sending reminders if/when additional payments are due, and preparing printed documents for you before your trip. In short, I look after all the moving pieces so you can focus on the countdown to your vacation.
#5 – Say Hello to your Vacation!
It’s wheels-up on your vacation! Sometimes, things arise during your trip that requires an extra set of hands. If an issue comes up and you need help, I can provide assistance or connect you with someone who can.
FAQs
How much do your services cost?
Because of our industry standing and high level of expertise, Wishes and Waves Travel charges travel planning fees for our professional travel planning services, much like many other professionals—attorneys, financial advisors, architects. This fee ensures that Wishes and Waves Travel is paid for our service whether or not you finalize your booking with us. This covers our time in consultation, research, pricing, and support before, during, and after travel.
This is more important now than ever as we understand the post-COVID travel landscape and we will not only advise you of your travel plans but will also be your advocate.
Can you find me a better deal?
YES! I am privy to special flight prices, special hotel, and cruise rates that you will never find online. This feature alone will save you money. Beyond pricing, my agency has the buying power to get extra amenities from the cruise lines and resorts to make your trip extra special!
Can I make payments?
YES! Unlike booking online which requires payment in full at the time you confirm your reservations when working with a travel agent, you can make payments! You will only be required to pay a small deposit to confirm your vacation. Final payment for your trip will usually be required anywhere from 30 to 90 days prior to your departure. This means I can set up a monthly vacation layaway program that could save you hundreds on credit card interest!
What happens with COVID-19 and my travel plans?
No matter how much you prepare, sometimes the unexpected happens. When you book with a travel agent, we are with you every step of the way. We are your personal advocate. Every situation is different, and I will discuss travel protection and cancelation policies with you prior to booking. Should you need to modify or cancel your reservation, I will be able to handle it all for you.