7 Ways A Travel Agent Adds Value to Your Vacation

 

You earned your vacation days! Every moment you take off from your day-to-day responsibilities is priceless and you don’t want to waste this precious time with anything that is not perfect. Travel always involves a certain element of risk, as it depends on Mother Nature and complicated machines to work together to get us where we want to go. It’s a practice that calls for an expert and one where the benefits of using a travel agent are endless.

You’re not likely to find a once-in-a-lifetime experience online. That’s the magic a professional can bring to your trip of a lifetime. Travel professionals know what’s hot and what’s overbooked. Even further, they know what’s about to become the next big thing (so you can get there before the crowds). Below are some of the many ways a good travel agent can add value to every minute of your vacation.

1. A Travel Agent Helps You Find the Right Destination

According to Travel Market Report, the average online booker runs up to 49 searches and spends 4 hours sifting through information and reviews posted by strangers. A good travel agent knows which questions to ask that will point you to the right destination. They take the time to get to know you and learn about your likes and dislikes to ensure that your trip is a match to your preferences.

2. End-to-End Service

A professional agent is there for you from the minute you step out the door until you return home safely with your luggage intact. She is your advocate, your guardian angel, your defense attorney. If the hotel is overbooked or the airport is snowed in, you know right away that you have someone in your corner to help get your trip back on track.

3. Keeping You Safe

Experienced travel professionals stay informed with what is happening around the world.  Your travel agent can warn you if there is illness or danger in a location you are considering. She is also your point of contact in case anything is to go wrong while you are abroad. By staying in the know, your travel agent can be a step ahead of any potential issues!

4. Having the Proper Paperwork

Don’t be the person at the airport without the correct visa, passport, or other credentials. You may think you’re up to date on the regulations, but then something unexpected will pop up. For instance, some countries will not let you enter within six months of the date of your passport expiration. Your travel professional will ensure you are fully prepared with all of the correct documentation.

5. Knowing the Right Insurance

You probably do not need cancellation insurance for that direct flight from Omaha to Denver. However, there is a time and a place for travel insurance, and those times and places are constantly changing. Even more important, many health insurance plans often don’t cover you while out of the country. A travel professional will help you weigh the insurance options available to you, taking into account your age, your health, your existing medical coverage, and where you are traveling.

6. Saving You Money

While travel agents sell service, not discounted prices, they can hold down your costs in many ways (sometimes by hundreds of dollars). They know all of the discounts and promotions, the best times to book, and the best days to travel. Use of a travel agent can be especially advantageous if you are traveling in a group. Even for small groups of six travelers or more, they can likely get you a discount or special amenity.

7. Scoring Some Perks

Travel agents create value in your trip with help from their connections. They have ties to hotels, tour companies, and even tourism boards throughout the world. Often they can get you free or discounted excursions, spa visits, room upgrades, and other perks that are not available online. Many tour companies pride themselves on being available only through a travel agency, meaning they offer special discounts and promotions that you will not find online!

So what are you waiting for? Your perfect vacation is just a phone call away! Get started building the trip of a lifetime by calling 402-281-3022. Because without a travel professional, you really are on your own.

All images have either been provided by the travel agent or are licensed under the Creative Commons.

A vacation can keep us sane and provide memories that will last a lifetime, but budgeting for a vacation can be tricky! What areas do we recommend you absolutely don’t skimp on? Below is a list of what we as professional travel agents recommend you splurge both your time and money on while on vacation.

 

1. Hotel

 

Our number one item we recommend you do not skimp on during your vacation is your accommodations. For families, we recommend you consider booking an upgraded suite with multiple bedrooms and a shared living space. This way your entire family can be together, as connecting rooms can’t be guaranteed at most resorts. For couples or honeymooners, we definitely suggest you book a room with an ocean view or a balcony. You will love waking up and being able to have your morning coffee with a lovely view. If you are traveling to Mexico or the Caribbean, we strongly suggest you look into an all-inclusive resort, as your food, drinks, and entertainment are already included. Always book your vacation with a travel agent to make sure you are booking a quality resort. Our advice is to book fewer nights at a higher quality resort, rather than more nights at a subpar resort.

 

2. Unique Sites and Experiences

 

Be sure to do your research no matter where you are traveling to (or let us do it for you). Even if you are staying at an all-inclusive resort, you will want to venture beyond the property to see what your destination has to offer.

For instance, you don’t want to visit the Riviera Maya without seeing the Mayan Ruins! We suggest booking a tour with a guide so you can learn the history of the ruins. Your guide will also be able to direct you to the important sites that you do not want to miss. If you’re headed to Mexico, we have listed some tour ideas for your next vacation here.

If traveling to Jamaica, we recommend making a stop at Rick’s Cafe in Negril. Our advice is to book the catamaran tour that stops at Rick’s Cafe for the sunset. You will also want to see YS Falls if you are in Negril, and Dunn’s River Falls if visiting Ocho Rios. Check out more ideas for Jamaican tours here.

In Cabo, book a tour which takes you to El Arco on a small boat, then drops you off at The Office downtown. The Office has amazing drinks and food right on the beach in downtown Cabo San Lucas. Don’t forget to try the Deep Fried Whole Fried Snapper!

Hawaii is another great destination where you will want to go exploring. Book a luau or rent a jeep to drive the Road to Hana. The list of options on every Hawaiian island is endless and will cater to every member of the family’s vacation expectations! 

 

3. Spa Services

 

Our agents always make sure to check out the spa when we are in a destination. The services can often be pricier than at a standard spa, but that is because these are not standard spas in our opinion! Our favorite resort spas are large, offer a wide variety of services (think hot stone massage and mud baths), and have private pools and cabanas for spa guests to enjoy before and after their services.  Some of the best hotel spas we’ve seen are in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. These include Zoetry Agua, Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, Breathless Resort & Spa, and Excellence Resort. In Montego Bay, we love the spa at Secrets Wild Orchid. We are also big fans of the spa services at Sandals resorts (all certified Red Lane spas). Our favorite is the giant luxurious spa at Sandals Emerald Bay in Great Exuma, Bahamas.

 

4. Golf

 

For the traveler who enjoys golfing, consider booking a resort that includes some free play or one that has nearby golf courses. Our favorite destinations to send golfers include Cabo and Hawaii. Both have several championship courses for any skill level. In recent years, Mexico and the Caribbean have started to become recognized for fantastic golf resorts. Check out some of our favorite golf destinations and resorts in Mexico and the Caribbean.  

 

5. Getting There

You may want to spend a little extra for more legroom on your flight, especially if you are traveling somewhere very far or you are on the taller side. One thing we always splurge on when traveling to Jamaica is Club Mobay. This allows you to skip the line for customs, gives you access to a private lounge with unlimited drinks and snacks, free WiFi, and transfers. We also recommend upgrading to private transfers to and from your hotel, as this service takes you in your own private vehicle at a relatively inexpensive price. If you stick with standard transfers, you may end up stopping at several resorts to drop off other travelers before you get to your own. 

 

 

The thought of embarking on a vacation on your own can be daunting. However, solo travel can be a very rewarding experience if you know what to expect. Being on your own in a foreign country allows you to be more susceptible to local discovery and connections.

Read on for our expert advise on the benefits of solo travel, as well as tips for making friends and for staying safe in a foreign country.

 

1. Build your confidence – Traveling solo comes with its own unique doubts and anxieties. You will have to rely completely on yourself in case of any setbacks or emergencies. Solving problems on your own is empowering, not to mention this will make you a better traveler.
2. Check off your bucket list items – Surely your bucket list includes a few items that are solo activities. Take advantage of this free time by yourself to knock a few of these items off your list.
3. Connect with the destination and it’s people – without the distraction of travel companions, you are able to more fully immerse yourself in your surroundings and it’s culture.
4. No drama – You choose where and when you want to go, what you want to do and what you want to eat. This vacation is yours alone, and the drama can wait until you get home.
5. Expect great service – Hotel staff will most likely take note that you are traveling solo. Whether it is because they respect your confidence or they feel bad for you, solo travelers often find themselves being extra pampered and waited on.
6. Previously considered as resorts for couples and families, all-inclusives have recently started catering to the singles crowd. Ask your travel agent to look into resorts that offer mix and mingle events, such as cocktail parties for singles.
7. For more outgoing types, a smallish boutique-style resort may actually be what you are looking for. Boutique resorts have fewer people and generally a smaller property with less restaurant and bar options, so you would expect to run into the same people more often. The only downside to booking a boutique hotel as a single is that these resorts tend to cater to couples. For singles looking to meet other singles, larger resorts tend to be better. Larger resorts are also a good choice for solo travelers who want to blend in and keep to themselves.
8. Work with a travel agent. Planning a solo trip online is not in your best interest. Your travel agent will ensure that your accommodations and transportation are legitimate and safe. They also will hold a copy of your itinerary along with all relevant contact information.
9. Purchase travel insurance.
10. Pack the bare minimum. You don’t know anyone here, right? So wearing your favorite sundress every other day won’t cause a scene. Plan your outfits and pack only the items you will need – plus one backup outfit in case.
11. Consider registering for the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
12. Do your homework and understand what is and is not acceptable behavior in destination. You may also want to learn a few key phrases in the native language.
13. Bring extra travel essentials and share with those around you. Bandages, wet wipes, hand sanitizer, and ibuprofen are all hot commodities to travelers.
14. Offer to take pictures for people. They will appreciate the gesture and then you can ask them to take your picture.
15. Ask questions of guides, hotel staff, and other locals and share useful information with fellow travelers.
16. Go with the flow. Take a guided tour or accept that invite from a girl you met at breakfast to join her at the pool bar for a drink.
17. Become a regular at a local restaurant and befriend the staff. That way you won’t always feel like a loner eating dinner by yourself.
18. Avoid leaving your hotel or resort alone at night. This is another reason to make a few friends for a night on the town.
19. Stay in the shopping district if you do some shopping. Do not venture into unknown neighborhoods.
20. Drink modestly and always keep your drink with you in plain sight.
21. Leave your itinerary and contact information with a family member or friend. Check in with them frequently and warn them to call your resort if they have not heard from you in a specified number of hours.
22. Carry multiple forms of ID including passport, a passport card if you have one, drivers license, etc. Always have the name and address of your hotel with you in case you get lost.
23. Avoid looking like a tourist or wearing flashy and expensive items.

 

Book your own solo getaway with Enchanted Travel. Call us at 402-281-3022. 

Jet lag affects even the most frequent travelers. Leaping through time zones takes our bodies and minds days to catch up, which can interfere with the first days of your vacation. Thankfully we as travel agents have battled jet lag often, therefore we have come across many tried-and-true tricks for minimizing the effects.

1. Sleep Strategically

 

The biggest mistake travelers make before hopping on a flight is not getting enough sleep the night before. You are likely to be at least somewhat fatigued after traveling, and even if you are not changing time zones getting that “back up” sleep can do wonders.

Avoid arriving at your destination at night time, which can cause you to feel more disoriented when exiting the plane. In addition, you do not want to be fighting sleep on the plane. Your best bet is to arrive mid to late afternoon when daylight can help your body adjust to the new time zone. Do something outside and even exercise if you can.

Try to stay awake until an early, but acceptable, bedtime. Wait until it is dark outside to pull back the covers. Then, take advantage of jet lag waking you early to see the sunrise and explore the city in the quiet morning hours.

 

2. Avoid Sleeping Pills

“Be very careful about using any sleep medicine unless you know how it affects you,” Max Hirshkowitz, chairman of the National Sleep Foundation, advises.

He adds that most over-the-counter sleep aids contain antihistamines, which are typically longer-acting and may leave you feeling groggy. An alternative to OTC and prescription sleeping pills is melatonin. Though it’s not regulated or approved by the FDA, several studies have shown it might be useful in shifting your circadian rhythm.

 

3. Guzzle Water but Avoid Alcohol

 

Always getting off an airplane feeling puffy? That’s because cabin air dehydrates you, which can cause uncomfortable bloating. It is very important to stay hydrated while in the air. I try to drink as much water as I can before the flight, but make sure to schedule time for a bathroom break before boarding.

The general rule is to drink at least 8 ounces of water for every hour in the air. If you have the option, choose the aisle seat so you can get up to use the restroom as often as you need.

Alcohol may help you to relax and get a nap on the plane, but this will dehydrate you further and can worsen jet lag. Always keep in mind that altitude changes can increase alcohol’s effects on your body. The general rule is that one drink in the air is equal to two or three on the ground.

 

4. Choose Snacks Wisely

Avoid sodium and carbonation or any trigger foods for you that can make you gassy.  Consider packing raw almonds, or a light sandwich and avoid anything that has caused you any discomfort in the past. Another option for preventing jet lag is to eat nothing at all, according to an article published by ABC News. In fact, a study published by the Journal of Science in 2008 suggests fasting for up to 16 hours pre-flight to avoid jet lag after you land.

 

5. Freshen Up Before You Deplane

 

Your skin, lips, and hair can become dehydrated in the air. Be sure to bring moisturizer and lip balm. Dehydrated skin can make you look tired, which can make you feel more sluggish. Bring items to freshen up before you deplane. Bring a toothbrush, change of clothes, wet wipes, extra contact lenses, deodorant, etc.

 

 

Have you always wanted to discover your family’s roots or explore the towns of your ancestors? Do you just want to see the places you’ve read or dreamed about? Your retirement years are the time to do it!

Whether you yearn for rest or excitement, low cost or all-out luxury, one of these five trips is for you. Below are some ideas that range from relaxing to adventurous, cost-conscious to extravagant, with a few in between.

1. Ireland

Ireland is great for those retirees looking for lush green scenery, picturesque pubs, and friendly locals.

A few can’t-miss cities to explore include Dublin, Killarney, Kinsale to the south, Belfast in Northern Ireland, and Dingle. You also should make time to see the green countryside of the Emerald Isle. Drive the 110-mile Ring of Kerry for breathtaking views, historic sites, waterfalls, and beaches. Venture to the seaport town of Cobh in County Cork which was the departure point of the Titanic.

If you plan to drive, remember that in Ireland they drive on the left side of the road, and vehicles have right-hand drive which can be a bit confusing if it is your first time. Those who are turned off by this but still wish to drive to the sites may want to hire a driver.

2. Australia

 

Travel can increase your happiness and well-being — and not just in the short-term. Whether you’re traveling for business or a leisurely getaway, traveling can make you a happier person by providing new experiences and memories and building self confidence, among many other positive benefits.

So the next time you find yourself heading out on a shopping spree to lift your mood, why not put that money towards a flight instead? Here are 7 ways in which travel can make you happier:

1. Book Some Quality Time with Yourself

Having a moment to take advantage of peace and quiet  allows us to let go of stress and enjoy the moment. This will leave you with a new sense of well-being when you return home to your regular day-to-day. If you’re traveling with a partner, it’s a chance to spend quality time together one-on-one.

2. Learn a New Skill 

Whether it’s learning how to cook the local cuisine or how to speak a new language, travel presents us with a chance to further our worldly knowledge. Learning makes our brains more active, which psychologists have found increases our level of happiness – particularly when learning something we find enjoyable, according to Forbes.

3. Get a Confidence Boost

There comes a time when everyone must deal with an unexpected situation when they’re on a vacation. Even if you plan your trip to the letter, things can take a surprise turn. Whatever happens, there is a way around the problem and knowing that you can deal with these situations is a big boost to self-confidence and therefore your happiness.

4. Grab Some Vitamin D

While it’s a bit of myth that you need to be in the sun for twelve hours to feel the full effects of vitamin D (20 minutes of exposure to sunlight is enough according to Harvard Health Publishing), there’s no doubt that in the same way that the cold and cloudiness can put a damper on our mood, sunshine and warmth generally put us in a much better mood. A beach break is a great way to relax and enjoy the health benefits of a warm climate. Admittedly, this is more of a short-term boost, but a healthy glow makes everyone feel better and lasts for a few weeks after your trip is over.

5. Happiness is Contagious 

When locals are happy, smiling and friendly, it has an immediate knock-on effect. My favorite country to visit is Jamaica because of their friendly, fun nature.  When faced with those big beaming smiles, it’s hard to be annoyed at the hassling you might experience at busy sites like Dunn’s River Falls; putting that knee-jerk irritation to one side instantly lifts your mood and is a good habit to take home.

6. Detox From Social Media 

It’s healthy for everyone to have a break from social media every once in a while. Wi-fi is so prevalent that it’s hard to turn off and you can quite often find yourself tuning out whatever amazing place you’re in with your face in your phone, checking Instagram, checking your emails… stop. Turn it off. Better yet, find somewhere with no reception and no wi-fi so that you don’t have a choice. It’s liberating and allows you to better enjoy the ‘here and now’.

7. Long-Term Effects

Aside from making you happier in the short-term, traveling can make you a much more content, happy and relaxed person in the long run too. Of course, most travel enthusiasts are constantly planning their next trip, but when we’re at home or past a point of being able to jet off whenever we like, past travels leave us with the memories and personal skills – such as confidence, broad-mindedness, friends and a more worldly perspective — that make people happy. And that’s why travel makes you a happier person.

 

Book your next getaway with Enchanted Travel by calling us at 402-281-3022. 

Ever wonder how you will manage to check off all of those bucket list travel destinations? The idea of traveling with kids may seem too stressful. Maybe you haven’t found a good travel partner and aren’t sure how to go it alone. Maybe you are nearing retirement and still have a few dream trips on your list. Put away the excuses and start planning with these helpful tips from around the web.

 

Why You Should Travel Alone at Some Point in Your Life

People are always harping on young, single individuals to embrace their freedom by traveling the world. It sounds great, but what if you haven’t found a perfect travel buddy to join you? Traveling solo can be intimidating, even for people that consider themselves to be independent. Traveling by yourself has many perks, and after reading this article I am convinced that a solo trip must be in my future!

Source: http://www.thisisinsider.com/why-you-should-travel-alone-2018-3

 

How to Travel With Children

Making vacation plans with children in mind can be overwhelming, with hectic schedules, endless packing lists, and cranky kiddos. This helpful article from the New York Times breaks down the planning tips to keep in mind when traveling with a family, the best ways to prepare and combat common travel challenges like a sick child or picky eaters, and even includes an in-depth packing guide.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/guides/travel/travel-with-kids

 

The Best Senior Travel Discounts, and Where to Find Them

If you are over the age of 65 in the US (or age 60 in the rest of the world), there are a wide variety of travel discounts available to you. Some airlines offer senior fares, as do many large US hotel chains and independent hotels. An important note from this article is that in order to take advantage of senior travel discounts at hotels, you must book with a travel agent or directly with the hotel rather than through an online travel agency such as Expedia. Working with a travel agent ensures you are getting the full discount you are entitled to.

Source: https://www.usatoday.com/story/travel/deals/2018/03/01/senior-travel-discounts/382280002/

 

Whether you are traveling solo, with children, or during retirement, we can help! Call us today at 402-281-3022 for all of your travel needs. 

In this week’s top travel news stories, find out why Colombia should be on your travel bucket list, explore the top travel apps of 2018, and find out how politics could affect your flight time.

 

The Best Travel Apps for 2018

Travelers rely on apps to get them through flights, to stay updated on gate chances, to track their bags, and to speed them through customs. Read up here on the best travel apps you need to download now for your next trip.

Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/elvaramirez/2018/03/22/the-best-travel-apps-in-2018-tips-from-a-travel-writer/#7d8046932989

 

Medellín Goes from ‘Most Dangerous City’ to Tourist Hot Spot

Medellín, “the city of eternal spring”, is quickly shedding its image of gang warfare and violence. In 2018 this Colombian city is emerging as a tourist hotspot. Medellín continues to rise in popularity for tourists, with fine dining and picturesque mountains. Find out why your next trip should be to this gorgeous Colombian city here.

ce: https://www.cnn.com/travel/article/medellin-colombia-things-to-do/index.html

 

How Politics Could Affect Your Flight Time

Air India made history last week, taking a shortcut through Saudi Arabian airspace. This shaved a full two hours off the flight time. Learn more in this article about Saudi Arabia and other countries that have banned certain flights in their airspace, and what this could mean for your future flight times.

Source: http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/why-planes-cant-fly-shortest-routes

We scoured the web for this week’s top travel news stories. Get the scoop below!

 

Hawaii is Still Safe to Visit Despite the Kilauea Volcano Eruption

The Hawaii Tourism Authority insists there is “no reason at this time for travelers to change or alter their leisure or business plans,” despite the recent eruptions from Kilauea volcano. While the volcano is dangerous, (it has destroyed 35 homes to date) it is only a threat for those in the evacuation zone. Hotels remain open, all Kona Airports flights are operating as usual, and businesses and schools have reopened. Read the rest of the article here, or call the Hawaii Tourism call center at 1-800-GO-HAWAII (1-800-464-2924).

Source: http://www.travelandleisure.com/travel-news/hawaii-still-safe-to-visit-despite-volcano

 

Mother’s Day Gifts that are All About Travel & Adventure

Instead of flowers or jewelry for Mom this year, why not spring for a travel adventure? Better yet, why not tag along? The Los Angeles Times article dives into 5 places your Mom probably has never experienced, including Iceland and Belize, and the best things to do in each destination. Read about all 5 destination picks here.

Source: http://www.latimes.com/travel/la-tr-tip-sheet-take-mom-on-an-adventure-for-mothers-day-20180502-story.html

 

These are the Most Popular Travel Destinations for Memorial Day

Memorial Day is looming in the near future, which means the summer vacation season is almost here. Take advantage of the warming weather by jetting off to a buzzy destination during this three-day holiday weekend – think Chicago, New Orleans, or Dallas. Browse the full list here.

Source: https://www.cnbc.com/2018/05/11/priceline-top-travel-destinations-for-memorial-day-weekend-2018.html

 

Call us today at 402-281-3022 to start planning your summer vacation!

You don’t have to be a travel agent to be in the know! Our travel talk segment brings you the latest travel news stories from around the web.

5 Perks Travel Agents Offer Beyond Booking Your Trip

Think travel agents do little more than charge you money for booking a trip? Think again! Travel agents do a lot more besides just planning your vacations. A travel agent can help you resolve any issues during travel and act as your “whole-trip concierge” for itineraries and activities. In addition, they can really personalize your next trip. Read on here.

Source: https://www.nytimes.com/2018/06/14/travel/using-travel-agent-tips.html

 

Hidden or Unexpected Travel Fees – How They Can Impact Your Next Vacation & How You Can Prepare for Them

Travel can become very expensive very quickly if you aren’t careful. Hidden or unexpected fees can quickly add hundreds of dollars to your budget. Airlines, hotels and rental car companies are the worst culprits. Read on for four costly fees to watch out for. 

Source: https://www.nbcnews.com/better/business/hidden-or-unexpected-travel-fees-can-break-your-vacation-budget-ncna882041

 

15 Travel Purchases that made my Experience with International Travel a Lot Less Stressful

International travel is something everyone should experience in their life. Whether it’s Europe, Mexico, Africa, or anywhere in between, these gadgets will ease your anxiety over possible travel issues. Usually the negative aspects of airports, preparation, and jet lag are worth the positive aspects of amazing experiences abroad. Read on for 15 purchases that made this writer’s last international trip a total breeze!

Source: https://www.nbcnews.com/better/business/hidden-or-unexpected-travel-fees-can-break-your-vacation-budget-ncna882041

 

Great Travel Gifts for Father’s Day

Lastly, an article for the dad in your life. Father’s Day is a great excuse to splurge on that travel gadget for your dad! Whether the dad in your life is a tech geek, skincare addict, or sports guy, this article has the gift for you.

Source: https://www.forbes.com/sites/loisaltermark/2018/06/08/great-travel-gifts-to-get-him-and-borrow-yourself/#97cd99a48ee8

 

Call us today at 402-281-3022!