09/08/2021
Perhaps prior to Covid, you arranged all your own travel, and you did a really good job of it. Then the Pandemic hit. If you were outside of Canada at the end of February 2020 when Justin Trudeau announced that the borders would be closing, you were probably one of the thousands of stranded travellers or their family members who frantically put an SOS call out to a Travel Advisor for help getting home. I had more than a few travellers who had not booked with me, reach out for answers and assistance.
Here's a 10-question test to see how you score on the I-need-a-Travel-Pro scale. For every "Yes" answer, give yourself one point
Are you traveling outside your country’s borders?
Will there be any connecting flights?
Is it very important to get perks such as late checkout, restaurant reservations, or private access to museums? (Add a half-point for each additional perk checked.)
Does anyone in your traveling party have allergies or any other special needs?
Is anyone in your traveling party unvaccinated?
Are you going to a location where you don’t speak the language?
Do you plan to go to locations where internet or phone service is spotty?
Are you hesitant when it comes to your destination's Covid restrictions and entry requirements?
Do you prefer a cultural travel experience over a resort-focused vacation?
Is this a last-minute trip?
Results:
0–2: YOU CAN DO THIS
Sounds like you are a DIY'er and your travel plans are uncomplicated. You'll still be able to get last-minute flight and hotel deals at OTA's (Online Travel Agencies) like Expedia and other booking sites. But beware of the fine print in their Terms & Conditions. And be especially diligent in making sure you understand and accept their cancellation policies. If something goes sideways, you could have a tough time reaching a human to assist you.
3–6: FIND A PRO
A Professional Travel Advisor will give you peace of mind by getting you tailor-made itineraries, upgrades at resorts & hotels, keep you abreast of any changing Covid rules, and come to the rescue in case of complications.
7+: GET A SPECIALIST
Google is great for looking, but not for booking! Destination-based Travel Advisors are exceptionally well connected and can open doors to VIP experiences (behind-the-scenes access to the Louvre, for example) and be available 24/7. An Experienced Travel Advisor will have an initial conversation with you to learn about your vacation style, your past vacations and your travel preferences.
What Now?
As an experienced Travel Advisor for the past 30+ years, I recommend that you reach out to me for a no-cost, no-obligation consultation call when you're ready to start planning. My job is to make your travel dreams a reality. During that initial consultation, we'll discuss your expecations, budget, preferences and whether any Planning Fees will apply. Once you decide to retain me, I will start planning and researching your trip based on the criteria you have requested.
I work for you, not the Travel Suppliers! You will have my guidance on recommending and securing your travel arrangements, and I will advise you of current health and safety regulations for travel. I will assist you in ordering visas if required, advise you of passport requirements, vaccine requirements, country entry requirements, and will deliver all of your travel documentation. I will also look after any amendments you need to make to your booking due to any unforeseen circumstances. My services cover you before, during and after your trip.
