There have been a few major events in history that have impacted the travel industry. Things like 9/11, the invention of the internet, and the Coronavirus pandemic have caused travel agencies to make changes in order to stay relevant and serve their clients well.
What are those changes, and how do they affect you?
Let’s look at a few key items so you can see why using an advisor is more relevant now than ever.
#1: Travel Insurance is vital, it’s no longer just a suggestion.
Pre-pandemic, it was common to “chance” traveling without travel insurance. I didn’t even purchase it. But now, with all the changes and requirements of travel, it’s more important than ever before. To accommodate, agencies and advisors have taken necessary steps to learn about great products in order to make recommendations based on your needs. This also goes for testing, documentation, and ever-changing requirements. Do you need a visa? When you work with an advisor, we will be able to quote you some packages so that you can make an informed decision, as well as monitor any destination and/or testing requirements so you are prepared and ready to travel without the added hassle or risk.
#2: Travel Planning Is Complicated!
There are so many moving parts to travel though that hasn’t always been the case! Booking a vacation used to be far less complicated than it is now. Thanks to technology and ongoing learning, many advisors are adopting a new way of taking care of their clients. New school methods are client-centric and are about crafting a trip for you, rather than just picking a premade trip package unless that is the right choice for you. I love curating those special trips. Technology has also allowed advisors to have better, more accurate information than what is “Google-able” by you as a consumer. You don’t want to be led down the wrong path.
#3: Booking with a travel advisor is not just a transaction, it’s a relationship.
No one likes to be ghosted, especially when you’re shelling out your hard-earned money. Nowadays, advisors tend to establish a working, ongoing relationship with clients. That’s why many in the industry are no longer just using the word “agents” (someone who creates bookings) but now go by something more descriptive, like “advisor” or “consultant” (implying a deeper level of service). We are here to take care of you.
#4: Advisors have access to systems that the general public does not.
Travel advisors have an entire world of systems and tools at their disposal, far beyond what you can see as a consumer. When we create a trip for you, we can see hundreds of choices across all hotel lines. These systems and tools give advisors access to virtually anything. The trips we can create for you are so much more than you could create for yourself. Additionally, advisors make a point to build great relationships with vendors and other advisors, as well as continually learn, train, and network to bring you an even greater experience.
With so many changes overall to the travel industry, it is best to rely on experts for your travel planning.
Leave planning to a true expert in the industry. We challenge you to put Charming Voyages to the test! Schedule a complimentary vacation consultation to see what we can do for you.
I'm Kelly! I'm a travel advisor, and I'm an expert in all things Italy!
I’m a true travel lover with pins dropped all around the world. Whether you’re looking for an adventurous vacation or a relaxing retreat, I’d love to help you plan your next unforgettable voyage.
