Q: WHY USE A TRAVEL AGENT? A: While the consumer of today feels empowered to do everything by themselves, when making plans for traveling abroad, this attitude can be the cause of a bad experience. A travel agent can share years of experience that can make of your vacation something to talk about, rather than regrets; and for the same price, or sometimes for a bit less. Q: WHAT IF I CONTACT SITES LIKE EXPEDIA OR ORBITZ OR ?? A: Mass produced canned soup tastes okay, but it will never replace the taste of soup made fresh and with great ingredients. Same goes with a vacation. You have worked hard all year and are ready to spend a great deal of money, so why not do it right for you and get really terrific benefits by having the vacation of your dreams rather than their "soup". Q: WHY DO INTERNET VACATIONS COST LESS? A: Vacations sold through the internet are nowhere near what you can receive by doing a custom itinerary. You must remember that these internet sites are only interested in selling very high volumes and you are only a number. Whit a travel agent, you and your family are appreciated clients and we all work as a team for you benefit. You'll be surprised as to how actual little difference in price there is between one of theirs and a proper vacation. Q: I LIKE THE INTERNET BECAUSE IS FAST, ARE YOU? A: No agent can be as fast as the internet, but what's your hurry to spend your money wrong? If a day or two can get your dreams and expectations satisfied, plus give you long lasting wonderful memories, it'll be worth it. All of us agents are always looking out for your benefit. Q: I DON'T KNOW WHERE TO GO? A: We can help! Let us know what your interests are and we can give you suggestions based on personal knowledge and experiences. Let us know your budget and see us work for you to make sure you get the best possible. Remember, we work hard for the benefit of your recommendation to friends; and your return to us for your next vacation. | | Myth: Travel agents are just glorified sellers of airline tickets and their time has come and gone. Reality: Travel agents are professionals who provide value by helping consumers cut through the clutter and save time and money. They act as travel counselors, offering personal service for their clients. Today’s successful travel agent recognizes that consumers do their homework and are more knowledgeable about what they want. Clients who turn to an StarShip Travel (SSTA) agent want the advice and expertise of a professional who: Extracts product information; Investigates and supplies competitive information; Stays abreast of the most current and timely promotions; Analyzes the current promotions; Clarifies the fine print, cancellation penalties and restrictions; Makes recommendations on travel-related options; Simplifies the research and subsequent transaction; Enhances the trip with value-added benefits and amenities; Obtains the best possible arrangements Gets problems resolved. Myth: The Internet will replace the need for travel agents. Reality: When it comes to booking travel, travel agents are experienced professionals. Travel agents sell: There are some things technology cannot replicate, and personal touch is one of them. The Internet is a valuable resource, but it cannot replace the expertise, guidance and personal service of a travel agent. At a time when travelers are stressed out with hectic schedules, travel agents have all of the information at their fingertips, saving valuable hours of surfing the Web. Agents also can offer insider tips generally based on personal experience. Myth: Travel agents do not support use of the Internet. Reality: Both consumers and travel professionals benefit from the Internet. The Internet has helped transform the travel industry. The Internet gives travelers the ability to do comparative shopping for attractive deals or packages. It has also helped many travel agencies, hotels, resorts and other travel-related suppliers flourish by bringing in business through Web sites. Myth: Young people do not understand or value the services of a travel agent. Reality: Yes they do. Of the people who use travel agents: Myth: Minority travel is not a factor in the future of the travel industry. Reality: Minority travel is one of the fastest growing niches in the industry, and as more agencies continue developing specialties, this will be reflected in the overall demographic of the travel agency industry. Myth: All travel agencies and agents are the same. Reality: Every travel agency is different and accordingly, some are better suited to a given consumer than others. Here are some tips on choosing a travel agent who is right for you. Ask around: Tap friends, neighbors and relatives who use an agent they trust. You may want to visit or call several agencies to find the one that best suits your needs. Consider everything from the appearance of the office to the agent’s willingness to listen and answer questions. The best agents want to establish a long-term relationship with a client, not just make one sale. Ask about fees: Our agents will notify our clients of any additional fees, including service fees, up front. Doing otherwise is pointless, as the fee will appear as a separate charge on the client’s credit card bill. |