When to contact a travel agent
Planning a European vacation today can be both time consuming and confusing
because of the overwhelming number of sources of information.
Now more than ever, the services of a professional travel
agent can be valuable.
A travel agent not only arranges the various modes
of transportation, but may also be able to save you money with early booking
discounts, special fares, accommodation details and travel advisories.
As former travel agents specializing in Europe, we’d like to show
you quickly how you can make your vacation more interesting,
Key benefits you gain by contacting a professional agent for some of
the services you may need.
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Add Value to your vacation: There is so much more to a trip than
just the price. Travel agents ensure that you have access to all
the best options in airfare, car hire, insurance, accommodations,
activities and more. It’s their business – they
do it every day. Protect your travel purchase by working
with a travel consultant who not only knows your destination,
but your individual needs, too.
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Your personal Travel Advocate: Your best interests are their highest priority.
They can also clarify the Fine Print, such as Cancellation
Penalties and Restrictions. A good travel agent is your best friend
in travel.
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They will go the extra mile for you: They work for you and will do
everything they can to meet your travel needs.
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Getting problems resolved: Travel agents
serve as your advocate in the event something inadvertently goes wrong.
They are with you before, during and after a
trip. That’s something the Internet itself can’t
do!
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We also recommend booking European escorted tours and cruises through a knowledgeable travel consultant. They can help you decide what product may be the most
enjoyable and best for you. Since
they receive a commission, there is usually no fee. (No commission on airline tickets. Airlines forced travel consultants to charge a booking fee)
Hint:
In choosing a travel agent, be as selective as you would be picking a
doctor, lawyer or other professional.
Get advice from friends and relatives
who use agents they trust. Travel choices are personal and decisions reflect
individual desires and lifestyles. Find the one that best suits your needs.
Consider the agent’s willingness to listen and answer your questions.
The best agents want to establish a long-term relationship with you, not
just make one sale.
Simple but important advice for you:
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Don’t drink carbonated beverages on long-distance flights.
At 33,000 feet they can make you sick for days.
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Be street-smart, especially at night, in cities like Rome, Barcelona
and others. Also be careful about pickpockets.
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What you should do when you need an English-speaking doctor. (Contact
your consulate for a list of recommended physicians. In
urgent cases contact the hotel management.)
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The importance of travel insurance including emergency evacuation
coverage. Medical evacuation is very expensive!
- Passport information and what to do when it's lost or stolen in Europe from Independent Traveler.
Professional travel agents will give you more tips – all geared to ensure
your vacation will be as enjoyable as possible.
Save money, time and frustration – find a professional travel
agent!
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