Travel Sales Group Llc

02/05/2024

Thanks for letting people know how much better their vacation experience will be when they work with a travel advisor! Give Jacki a big hug for me!!
If you are not already working with a fabulous travel professional, we have 5 at TravelSalesGroup ready to help you plan your next adventure! 518-885-8035 OR [email protected]

18/04/2024

Did you know that we have Disney specialist on staff that travels there multiple times a year?! TANYA@TRAVELSALESGROUP

GREAT ARTICLE THAT EXPLAINS REALLY WELL EXACTLY THE VALUE THAT EXPERT ADVISORS LIKE TANYA ADD TO YOUR VACATION!

Op-Ed: Why I Won’t Use Costco for Travel Again
by Sarah Milner / April 16, 2024

By February 2022, I had been bitten by the revenge travel bug, just like so many consumers in North America.

My small family and I had a tough time during the pandemic, as did many. Working remotely from home with two kids under five often felt isolating, even without the added pressures of lockdowns and COVID-19 fears.

Once we were all vaccinated, I started looking into a Disney World vacation. I had always wanted to experience the iconic theme park. My parents aren’t big travelers, so I never went as a kid. Now that I had my own children—and they were a “good age” to experience the Disney magic—it felt like the right time.

I (wrongly) assumed it would be a straight-forward process, and not worth a travel advisor’s time. Early on, I discovered that Costco offered a travel service. As a frequent shopper with a Gold membership, I assumed the level of customer service for travel would be on par with my past experiences in the warehouses.

It was a mistake I will not make again.

The hidden costs of Costco Travel
After some preliminary research, I found what looked like a great deal for a Walt Disney World vacation. Booking eight months in advance, I was looking at about $7,000 (CAD) total for a six-night stay for four, flight-inclusive. I paid upfront.

By the summer, the trip’s costs started to creep up. Worried about COVID-19-related cancelations, I forked out $500 for additional travel insurance. Our son’s car seat was too big for the plane, so I bought a new one. I discovered the resort was no longer offering airport shuttle service, nor was that included in the package I had purchased, so I booked that too.

There was a nationwide processing delay for passports that summer thanks to the post-pandemic travel surge, so I ended up paying extra for expedited shipping. Realizing the departure flight would require me to leave the house at about 3:00 am, I booked us a shuttle so I wouldn’t have to drive.

Then, disaster: While I was away at a work conference, I received a robocall from Costco Travel. The timing could not have been worse. After hours on the phone (when I should have been attending programming), I learned my return flight had been canceled.

Costco Travel couldn’t really help. They offered me a flight at the same rate that was a day later, but couldn’t extend my hotel stay. Feeling stressed out and pressured (and just wanting to get back to the conference), I booked whatever flight I could that was on the original departure date. I was charged an additional $400 per passenger.

At this point, I was feeling very uneasy about the trip. I had expected there would be additional costs (insurance, passports etc.) but not like this. But I was already in too deep.

Travelers don’t know what they don’t know
One of the main unsung benefits of having a travel advisor is the knowledge that only comes with experience. No matter how much online research someone does, the reality is that you don’t know what you don’t know.

My biggest mistake was assuming that buying a Costco package deal eight months ahead would be easy and save me money. Not only did the flight change cost me a pretty penny (and a lot of stress), but I missed out on resort promotions.

I thought I knew a lot about Disney vacation planning. My aunt had planned a similar trip before the pandemic, and she gave me a ton of great information. I watched hours of YouTube videos, and I scoured Reddit boards for advice and tips. I felt prepared. I was not prepared.

There were so many details I overlooked. We traveled during October, a time of year that was supposed to be slower—but because of the surge in post-pandemic travel, and the re-introduction of Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, crowds were unbearably dense at times. I didn’t know about the special ticket event until after our dates were sold out, so we missed out on what would have been a cool bonus memory too.

We also weren’t prepared for how far of a walk it would be from our resort room to the main building and bus stops. I love walking, so I didn’t even think about that as a potential concern—but because we had flown, we didn’t have a stroller for our youngest. He really struggled to make that journey, especially after a long day at the park.

Why I won’t book a family trip through Costco again
In all fairness, we had a great vacation. Walt Disney World has a huge global following for a reason. And I’m grateful for all of the information that this community has made available online; we found some great hidden gems, got to ride most of the attractions we wanted, and made some spectacular memories.

And I recognize that some of these issues are bound to happen. I don’t blame Costco Travel for all the little things that went wrong. Rather, I see it as a learning experience.

There will be some people reading who have had positive experiences using Costco for travel. If you like what the site offers, then you should use it. But for me, it’s not worth the hassle.

In retrospect, I was not mentally or emotionally prepared for the level of planning the trip required. Not only was this my first Disney trip, it was my first major family vacation. I had to learn about Genie+, Lightning Lanes, dinner reservations, hotel discounts, etc.—all while also figuring out how to travel internationally with my kids for the first time since COVID. It was naïve to think I could do it all on my own without investing a lot of time and effort.

When I booked the trip, I figured our total cost would be under $10,000. In the end, we spent well over $12,000 for a five-night trip—and that was after cutting back on dining experiences and souvenirs.

I wish I had reached out to a travel advisor before booking with Costco. Someone smarter than me could have pointed out that I’d be better off renting a car and skipping the pricey character dinner. That postponing my vacation by a week would have significantly reduced the crowds. Maybe I should consider just doing an all-inclusive stay in Cuba.

As an avid supporter of local businesses, I would have been happy to pay a consultation fee. And I’m sure my modest $10,000 budget would have been better spent at the hands of a seasoned professional—I might not have gotten a cheaper flight or better accommodations, but I would have had a better overall experience, and that’s what really matters.

I’m currently in the early stages of planning our next family trip.

Call now to connect with business.

09/04/2024

11 day Ireland Adventure for only $3995 per person with all tours, transfers, and hotels included. More than half of your meals included. Custom planned, small escorted group of less than 20.
ONLY 6 SEATS LEFT! Call or email for details!!

518-885-8035
[email protected]

Who wants to join me in Ireland?!

05/04/2024

My favorite hotel in Mexico is nominated for most instagrammable hotel in the world!! Can you please click and vote for Impression by Secrets Isla? No log in or registration needed. Just scroll and click!

Only two remain! | The Finals are here! Just two hotels remain in our 2023 Most Instagrammable Hotel in the World contest. Help crown the champ by April 8 at 10 a.m.

27/03/2024

26/03/2024

Have you been watching The Bachelor and drooling over the resorts they spent the last week in? I have been to all three and have even gotten to enjoy the FIVE BEDROOM all inclusive, butler service, beachfront villa Secrets Tulum Resort & Beach Club just a couple of weeks after they filmed the fantasy suites dates there!

Feel free to reach out to plan your own epic romantic adventure at this gorgeous resort!!
518-885-8035
[email protected]


***Photos are the property of TravelSalesGroup Llc and Heather Di Pietro. Use without permission from above constitutes copyright infringement. Feel free to SHARE a photo or the whole album with photography credit. No downloads please!

11/03/2024

Some days, while working, are better than others. THIS is one of THOSE kinds of days. Being given the use of a 5 bedroom villa on the beach...not too shabby!
#

10/03/2024

Where are my pickleball players?

05/03/2024

Way to go Atlanta!!

A shipping container – a remnant from Covid-19 used by hospitals for extra space – was refashioned by the city as part of a project in hopes of helping many of the city’s chronically unhoused.

04/03/2024

WHO WANTS TO GO TO IRELAND WITH US JULY 14th - 24th???

$3995 per person for 10 night /11 day adventure in the Emerald Isle!

This trip is going to be amazing! My sexy husband and I are leading this one and we want you to come too! More than half of your meals are INCLUDED. All of your tours are INCLUDED Less than $400 per person per day for a 4 star luxury experience that I custom designed with the executives at Collette! For details, contact Heather. Just a few seats left with a max of 20 on this tour.
WOULD LOVE TO FILL THIS ONE TOO!

[email protected]
518-885-80365

Feel free to share! Need to get this one filled up!

MORE INFO :
Day 1: Sunday, July 14, 2024 - Overnight Flight Anticipation mounts as you wind your way toward Ireland and its many wonders. Rich history, rolling hills and warm smiles lie ahead in Dublin, Killarney, and Galway. You’re setting off to explore the amazing “Emerald Isle.” We have negotiated fantastic rates on direct flights from Charlotte and can arrange the connection from your city as well.

Day 2: Monday, July 15, 2024
Arrive Dublin, Ireland – Tour Begins - Leave your bags at your hotel this morning and enjoy a welcome reception before setting off on a walking tour of the “Fair City.” See the historic center, exploring Grafton Street, St. Stephen’s Green, the General Post Office, and the River Liffey. You’ll also tour the medieval Christ Church Cathedral* and its imposing crypt. Return to your hotel this evening for a welcome dinner with your fellow travelers. Today dinner will be included.

Day 3: Tuesday, July 16, 2024
Dublin The day is yours to discover the city as you see fit. Did you want to learn to make pastries in a local Irishman’s home or do tastings at Guiness and a local Whiskey distillery? Enhance your experience and do both if you would like, or enjoy the leisure time on your own to explore the many cultural offerings of delightful Dublin. Our tours are all about YOU getting the experience YOU want. Then, join the group to do a dinner at a local establishment while listening to a local spin tale of days past in a world famous storytelling experience you are sure to love!
Today breakfast and dinner will be included.

Day 4: Wednesday, July 17, 2024
Leave Dublin behind this morning as you step back in time to visit Kilkenny. Meander its historic streets and soak up the unique sights of this 12th century city built on both banks of the River Nore. Enjoy time to explore the town or Kilkenny Castle on your own. Next, travel to historic Blarney Castle. This evening, cross into County Kerry and continue on to charming Killarney, your home for the next three nights. Today breakfast and dinner will be included.

Day 5: Thursday, July 18, 2024
This morning is yours to enjoy a leisurely-paced start to the day, or you may choose to go on the included horse drawn tour of Killarney National Park. Afterwards, set off to follow what is perhaps Ireland’s most majestic coastal route – the stunning Di**le Peninsula. Travel to the town of Di**le and drive the beautiful Slea Head road, where some of the country’s most spectacular landscapes are found. Today breakfast will be included.

Day 6: Friday, July 19, 2024
This morning, visit Muckross House. Enjoy time to explore this Victorian mansion by the shores of Muckross Lake and its extensive gardens. Then, take in the rugged coastline as you loop your way around the picturesque Ring of Kerry. This world-famous trail is part of an unspoiled region that is home to the types of plunging cliffs and miles of brilliant greenery for which the Emerald Isle is known. At the Gap of Dunloe, shop for local artisan-made crafts and enjoy a five-course tasting menu highlighting the “flavors of Kerry.” Today breakfast and dinner will be included.

Day 7: Saturday, July 20, 2024
Today, depart Killarney and take to the countryside. Experience the customs and daily life of a traditional Irish family and enjoy homemade scones and tea during a memorable visit to the Molanna Dairy Farm. Experience the Ireland you’ve always imagined at the Cliffs of Moher, where mossy cliffs plunge 700 feet into the ocean for awe-inspiring views of the mighty Atlantic and the Aran Islands. Peek into Irish culture at a sheep farm, where you’ll watch a dog-herding demonstration and meet the friendly canine workers. This evening, arrive in Galway, a lively city of medieval relics and modern flare. Today breakfast will be included. HOTEL: Ardilaun Hotel, Galway

Day 8: Sunday, July 21, 2024
This morning, we will venture out for the included adventure to the stunning Aran Islands. Step back in time while getting to see the Cliffs of Moher in a way that few will ever see… from the water! Regardless of your decision, meet up with your fellow travelers this afternoon to explore the city with a local guide who will showcase “The City of Tribes.” The night is free for reminiscing about the day as you find your own authentic taste of Irish culture. Today breakfast will be included.

Day 9: Monday, July 22, 2024
Set out on a day trip to the rural Connemara region. Arrive at Kylemore Abbey where you will discover Kylemore Castle and its Victorian Walled Garden. With cafés and shops, as well as trails through the woodlands and lakeshores, there is much to enjoy as you explore the grounds set in Connemara’s remote wilds. Enjoy lunch at one of the cafés to top off your visit! Next, head to Connemara National Park where you may choose to set off on a walking trail and immerse yourself in the mountainous, woodland landscape. This evening, return to Galway. Today breakfast and lunch will be included.

Day 10: Tuesday, July 23, 2024
This morning, leave the Atlantic coast behind as you head east. Arrive at the Brú na Bóinne visitor center where you will visit the Neolithic prehistoric passage tomb, Newgrange. Continue on to the regal grounds of a historic castle where you will stay the night. Enjoy a farewell dinner in the castle and toast the end of an unforgettable trip! Today breakfast and dinner will be included. HOTEL: Cabra Castle, Kingscourt

Day 11: Wednesday, July 24, 2024
Your tour comes to an end in Kingscourt. Wish the Emerald Isle goodbye as you depart for home. Today breakfast will be included.

For more information on this tour, please contact Heather Di Pietro at [email protected] or 518-885-8035

**lePeninsula

02/03/2024

UPDATE - SOLD OUT. THANK YOU!!

3 DAYS LEFT and only 1 CABIN! Who wants it??!!
FINAL BOOKING DATE IS SUNDAY!!
So if you want more information please call or email Bridget ASAP! 🥳🧳
[email protected]
704-437-9117
Dates: 7/9/2024 – 7/16/2024 with Pre-Night Stay 7/8/2024
Princess Cruises
Ruby Princess
Roundtrip from Vancouver, BC Canada
7-Day Inside Passage (with Glacier Bay National Park)🏔
Cruise itinerary: 7 Days | 3 Ports | 1 Scenic Cruising 🚢
📍Cruise Prices Include:
PRINCESS PLUS
• Princess dining, accommodations and entertainment
• Medallion Class experience
• Plus Beverage Package (drinks up to $15 each, includes unlimited juice bar)
• Wi-Fi (1 device per guest)
• Crew appreciation (gratuity)
• Premium desserts (2 per day) YUMMM
• Fitness classes (2 per cruise) For after those desserts!
Hotel for Pre-Night is included as well as transfers. Pricing is based on 2 people per cabin.

BALCONY ROOM FOR ONLY $2749 Per Person

Travel Sales Group Llc
Shes The World Luxury Guided Vacations

28/02/2024

We never post "deals" because we are a high touch, service oriented, luxury agency. However, these are just too good to not pass along. I did one of these cruises in December. If you have been wanting to see Greece....you will never get a better rate! Give us a call to book. 518-885-8035
[email protected]

28/02/2024

I was asked this weekend how someone who can't travel right now can support my business. THIS is how you can support any entrepreneur! My business pages are Travel Sales Group Llc and Shes The World Luxury Guided Vacations . I sincerely appreciate it and so will other small business owners!

27/02/2024

Our advisors are always checking out what's new! Check out these resort photos from Walt Disney World World rom our favorite Disney Princess, Tanya Nghiem-Travel Consultant with Travel Sales Group, LLC !

27/02/2024

Little reminder that anyone can end up in this situation. Kindness IS NOT always about money. Sometimes, it's about showing someone they matter....and that they're seen.

23/02/2024

Happy Independence Day to all my St Lucia friends and colleagues! Who wants to come to visit this beautiful island later this year?!

Tag someone you want to bring!

22/02/2024

Hi all. I have at&t so wifi hopping while traveling today. Pretty much unreachable between 12-5.

16/02/2024

I get an extra big smile on my face when I see my previous destination couples are building a family together! These two were so sweet to work with. I know this baby girl will be so blessed! Congrats Jana Tuttle Crosby ! So very happy for you guts!

13/02/2024

It is absolutely Ludacris how many beautiful spots there are in St Lucia! Like the sulfar mud baths....go in 45 and you come out 35!

Are you booking with an award winning professional advisor that knows St Lucia like her own backyard? No? WHY NOT!?

We do destination weddings, honeymoons, family trips...we have you covered! Call today to work with the most experienced St Lucia advisors out there!



[email protected]
518-885-8035

08/02/2024

Contact [email protected] if interested. She is the Disney guru!