Okay, it's like this...

So, we're cruising along on Southwest at 30,000 feet on our way to Las Vegas to speak at the Travel Leisure conference as I write this.  It's amazing to me all the things we can do today that we couldn't when I first got into the travel industry in the 70s.  Technology has changed all of our lives!  As travel agents we no longer have to rely on airlines for our air ticketing systems. We don't have to use the telephone to call our cruise line and tour operator partners to book their products.  We can now book air tickets, hotel rooms, rental cars, cruises and tours online The Internet has changed the way travel agents purchase travel for our customers.  It is certainly more time and cost efficient, and because of this, we are able to pass on additional savings through private sales to our customers.

But, the Internet has done more than that.  Now Mr. and Mrs. Consumer can purchase their travel online as well at what, at first glance, seems to be at lower costs than by booking through a travel agent. 

Or, can you really???

Would you consider doing your own taxes if you had a lot of deductions and filing your taxes took you hours and hours of your precious time?  If you are a two-person working household, would you be willing to give up sending your laundry out and losing that time on the weekends and nights that would be required to take up your time washing and ironing all of those shirts and pants?  Or, if you had appendicitis, would you consider going on the Internet to find out to take it out yourself to save a few bucks?

Of course not!!!  But everyday, we hear of people who are booking cruises online themselves based strictly based on price.  Because we are travel professionals, we know that there are distinct differences in cruise lines, just as there are in hotels and restaurants.  The worst thing that can happen is to book that cheap cruise for your honeymoon and find out that the cabin has upper and lower beds.  That's right, bunk beds!!  But, it was at a better rate than a travel agent quoted.  Why?  Because we know what the categories on a ship are and that we would never give a quote to  honeymooners in a cabin like that one.  Yes, our price maybe $25 per person higher, but it's not bunk beds!!

The Internet is a great place to research travel, especially destinations.  But, when it's time for the pedal to meet the metal, it's time to talk with a professional who can direct you to the vacation that is compatible with your lifestyle.  Save yourself heartache and let us help you fulfill your dreams.