With another successful summer travel season behind us and the holiday travel season quickly approaching, we caught up with local travel expert, Jennie Underwood to discuss the importance of using a travel planner for your next vacation. As an agent with Ears of Experience, Jennie specializes in Disney Destinations, Cruises and much more. Plus, as a fee-free travel planner, she can provide you with a no-cost solution to an expertly planned vacation.
We asked Jennie about the need for a travel planner in today’s day and age:
“Of course, today it is easy to book travel plans online – however, by booking yourself you are missing out and may not realize it. There are many benefits to using a travel planner: from saving both time and money to unlocking special perks and benefits that are only available when booking with a travel planner. Over time your travel professional gets to know you and your family, your likes and dislikes. You are so much more than a sale to them—and they provide the human connection that makes every transaction more pleasant and meaningful. Plus by supporting local businesses, you support your community.”
Jennie also shared with us the top 5 reasons to use a travel planner for your next vacation:
1. Save loads of time and money
“Why book online and pay for services you are not receiving? Many travel planners do not charge a fee for their services (be sure to ask upon first conversation). Travel company brands reward travel planners as a part of the package price. So, not only will your dedicated travel planner help you find perks, upgrades and resort and on-board credits – you will also receive customized planning services for free. If you book without an agent, you are paying for a service that you are not utilizing.”
2. Expertise
“Like other career areas, a travel planner is an expert in the field. They will ask you the right questions, listen to your vacation requests, offer expert advice, and create a customized vacation. Travel Planners are also experts in specific destinations such as Disney destinations and Europe – as well as experts in cruising and all inclusive resorts. With so many options for a vacation – leave it to the experts to assist in customizing the perfect vacation for you. Vacation time is limited – so you want the best use of your time and money during the trip.”
3. Buying travel is a unique purchase
“When purchasing a travel package – you are actually buying both a product and a service. A travel planner will offer you a package (whether it be cruise line, all inclusive resort, or speciality destination) AND their services. A travel planner offers their services to allow you a vacation that is seamless and stress free. Whether you need to change dates, upgrade room location, or discuss weather related concerns – your travel planner is your full service concierge to assist with those updates. No need to wait on the phone and talk to a stranger – your travel planner will handle all aspects of those updates on your behalf.”
4. Travel Planners are trained in the field
“A travel planner should have yearly training in all destinations they service. They are able to make sure the vacation package meets your needs, so you are happy with each penny you spend on the trip. Training allows travel planners to be an expert in a destination – in order to customize a vacation package specifically for you.”
5. Sifting through the options
“In today’s travel world, companies are offering more brands than ever before. Which Disney Resort best meets your family’s needs? Which cruise line offers both value and amenities? What cities are best for a European experience? A travel planner can assist in sharing the subtle difference between travel brands and resorts and choose the one that fits you and your family’s wishes.”
Today, the options for travel are endless and sometimes you just don’t know what you don’t know. So ask someone who does—your local travel planner! You can contact Jennie Underwood via Email, on her Facebook page, or through her Website.
