Which question is YOUR “implied consent” to a Travel Professional ? Which travel questions are FREE for you ?

Twenty years ago, before the internet, everyone turned to a Travel Professional for all their questions.  And today, though the internet exist, most folks still do !

Why ?

Who wants to get blind sided with answers YOU don’t know ?
With questions YOU never thought to ask ?

At what question, should you, as a consumer, know that you want to lean on a Travel Professional with your travel plans ?  That YOU have given your “implied consent” or formed a verbal contract ?

With your 1^st call to a Travel Professional !  Even when the question is ONLY about cost !

Travel Professionals, cruise lines, and Tour Operators have paid “big bucks” in providing websites for your answers.  Even price !

So if you want to make all your travel plans yourself, without turning your travel plans over to a Travel Professional, then … Don’t make that call !

According to thefreedictionary.com … Implied consent … Is the granting of permission for health care without a formal agreement between patient and the health care provider.  In essence, the patient is reaching out to the Health professions for needed care, and in turn, will be paid.

Same holds true in the travel world.  You reach out to a Travel Professional for guidance, and in turn, you’ve already given your “implied consent or verbal agreement” that you will turn over your travel plans to that agent to handle.

For those consumers who only “use” an agent for insight, without allowing them to be paid by a cruise line or a tour operator for their travel, are actually stealing !  Before pointing fingers at a “shop lifter at a  store”, is not STEALING TIME of equal value ?

I know folks who will call a professional for insight, such as for computers and cameras.  And then will turn to the “net” and buy cheaper.  Is that not stealing too ?  Was not the information you received “worth” the added cost of the purchase ? 

So which travel questions are FREE to consumers, without making your purchase through the Travel Professional ?  Other than the answers you find online >>> NONE !

FREE ANSWERS (whether it be verbal, by email, or even FB messenger) are intended ONLY for the Travel Professionals own personal customers.  Answers to questions, for any other purpose, other than the intension to buy, are NOT free !

Time will tell, if the agent must start charging callers upon their 1^st call.  Doesn’t take but a “few bad apples” to cause all the many rules, we already have, in our world today !  Causing the innocent to have to pay out of pocket too !

If you purchase your travel though a Travel Professional, how can you help ??

Ask family & friends, if they too, are purchasing their travel through a Travel Professional.
HELP KEEP YOUR TRAVEL INSIGHT FREE ... FOR YOU !

Norwegian Ultimate dining or Specialty Dining Pkg. Has it become complicated ? Worth it ? Or does it suit you better ?

Over a year and a half ago, Norwegian Cruise Line came out with a new dining package, for its passengers to purchase and enjoy their “pay for” dining rooms … The Ultimate Dining Package.  The opportunity to dine as much as they want, during the entire cruise, at most of their specialty restaurants onboard.   The cost is based on the number of days of your cruise (not including gratuities):

3- to 6-day Cruises: $59 per person
7-day Cruises: $119 per person
8- to 10-day Cruises: $149 per person
10- to 15-day Cruises: $199 per person
16- to 25-day Cruises: $259 per person
26- to 35-day Cruises: $299 per person
36- to 45-day Cruises: $349 per person

Not all the dining venues would be included.  If it was an ala cart restaurant or entertainment venue too, you would instead, receive 20% off.  However a bonus … If you opted for the Speidel Tent/ Illusionarium, the first night of your cruise, there would be no charge, but instead, complimentary.

 

Personally I thought this was a GREAT OPPORTUNITY. And suggested to my clients.  I’m not a 100% fan of Norwegian’s food in the main complimentary dining, and in cruises past, not been willing to pay the extra cost to dine in these specialty dining rooms, unless they offered a special while onboard.  Now, for only $119 for a 7 night cruise, it’s like the cost of an excursion for me, and now I could opt in having more “fine dining” for the week !

Then came change.  Several months back, Norwegian decided to add 18% gratuities to the Ultimate Dining Pkg.  Unfortunately for folks booked on the new NCL Escape, we were not even allowed to sign up for this package, till after this change !  

 

I too, have to admit, I wasn’t overly excited about this.  Why 18%, when drinks are only charged 15%.  Though I would still make use of the cafeteria, for breakfast and maybe lunch, why wouldn’t Norwegian offer a credit on their “set gratuities charges” for those buying this package ?  

Would love to know the number of folks, who are now turned off by the cost of the package ?? Matter of fact, a special customer and friend, debated a few days, when learning this addition, before they finally agreed they want.  So now a 7 night has jumped from $119pp to estimate $141pp, to include the 18% gratuities. 

Why not at least wait and charge the 18% “when” the person used the package in one of the specialty dining rooms ?  Probably because the ship didn’t want to deal with folks onboard, who upset over misfortune in service and would then want this gratuity deleted from their bill?

 

All-in-all .... If I add up the cost for 5 venues, it's $141 with the 18% gratuities.  So as long as we opt in one of these specialty dining rooms, our other two nights onboard a 7 night cruise, then it will be like 2 nights free.  So that's the added advantage to a pre-purchasing versus buying one night at a time, while onboard. And as long as we can get the Supper Club (NCL Escape) included, by signing up for the 1st night, a true bonus (scroll down to discover, this option is taken away).

 

 

But Now … More change !  Not only is seemingly complicated, it’s not actually a 100% set cost, depending on the specialty dining venues a passenger chooses. 

Here’s information I received after talking to a few NCL agents yesterday.  And yes, I received conflicting information, but here goes:

To start with, the venues themselves, have gone up in price, for folks buying a “one time” visit.  Example, years back, the Le Bistro started out as $10pp.  One time when I was onboard, it had moved to $15pp, but was offered $7.50pp if opted to eat after 9pm.  With no added gratuities.  Now, it has inches up to $24pp + 18% gratuity.  The cost of entertainment venues, such as the Supper Club onboard the new NCL Escape is $30pp, including 18% gratuity for regular seating or $ 39pp, if you want more front row seats.

There’s more insight.  Future purchases will no longer be called, Ultimate Dining Pkg.  It has changed to “Specialty Dining Pkg”. 

And there’s more.  (1) Several of the specialty dining venues will now turn to ala cart too !  For the future, ala cart will not be 20-25% (depending on when you bought the Ultimate Dining Pkg), there will be an “upcharge” to have those venues.  (2) You will now be able to buy, for example, as few as 3 nights for a 7 night cruise. (3) The “dinner & show option”, such as the Supper Club on the NCL Escape, will no longer be “free” if you choose this venue the first night.

Including 18% gratuities (rounded off):

3 nights - $ 70pp
4 nights - $ 88pp
5 nights – $106pp
6 nights - $ 123pp
7 nights - $ 141pp …The cost as the 7 night Ultimate Dining Pkg.

Then you have to tag on the “upcharge” for select dining venues:

Bayoma (NCL Escape – It’s a seafood restaurant with a Latin twist) - + $15pp
Italian - $7pp
Le Bistro - $ 7pp
Cagney Steak house - $7pp
Supper Club (NCL Escape – includes “Brat Pack” entertainment) - $ 10pp regular seats & $15 for seats closer to the stage.

Currently, the Teppanyaki Japanese Restaurant nor the Brazillian Restaurant will have an “upcharge”.  And a 2nd entre in Cagney's Steak House and Le Bistro will have an extra charge for a 2nd entrée (this has been going on for awhile).

 

How does this affect the “Past Ultimate Dining Pkg” buyers ?  I’ve been told, (1) There will be “no upcharges” for the new ala cart venues.  (2) However, we can not just upgrade to the prior ala cart venues, we instead still with the original concept, only 20-25% off. (3) Supper Club (NCL Escape) will NOT offer this complimentary, even if signing up the 1^st night.   AND … I was told by NCL, there’s not sure of all this information, till passengers sign up for “our sailing”, which becomes available this Sunday (90 days from sailing).

 

How will it change for folks receiving the Ultimate Dining Pkg complimentary (didn't pay for), which was included with their promo (yes, they did have to pay the 18% gratuities) ???

 

My first thought … Why the change ?  Let’s get more greedy because the concept has caught on and loved by passengers ?  Make it less appealing because EVERYONE was now choosing the program and the venues too full or not enough staff ?  Or folks asked for short number of days in commitment ?

Will I now buy in the future ?  If I do, it won’t be for the entire time of my 7 night cruise.  And I would choose the venues with “no upcharge”.  A better question might be … Why didn’t they start with shorter package in the first place ?

FYI … As of Aug 2015, current pricing per venue, to buy one at a time, including 18% gratuities:

Bayoma (NCL Escape) $ 36pp
Italian  $ 24pp
Brazilian $24pp
Le Bistro $ 24pp
Cagney’s Steak House $ 36pp
Teppanyaki $36
Supper Club & show (NCL Escape) $ 30-39pp

 

My roommate and even another couple sailing on Cruises Inc’s Convention Cruise onboard the NCL Escape in November, we’ve decided to just stay with our 7 night package, “for now”.  Yet, as time gets closer, and more events are scheduled for our convention, we may soon learn, we don’t have time but for more than 4 or 5 nights in these specialty restaurant choices.  As mentioned above, we’re getting no added value in keeping the 7 night Ultimate Dining Pkg, with not including the “bonus I had been told at time of purchase” … NO complimentary Supper Club if sign up for this venue the 1^st night.

Transportation to/from your cruise. When might you consider buying directly from the cruise line ?

This is not a direct answer !  Depends on whether you are flying in ?  Coming in day prior ?  Leaving your car at a hotel ?  If you are traveling abroad, other than to the Caribbean ? 

Here’s some food for thoughts, based on destination ….

Usually if your destination is from the US, a cab is good enough.  However, this would be high in cost, from places like LAX, Houston/Galveston, and even Orlando, and you will want to consider another avenue. 

 

Ever heard of Cruise Connection ?  This is offered from "select cities" in Florida to get to cruises in Fort Lauderdale and Miami.  Select cruise lines, such as Princess and Norwegian, allow you to make this purchase through the cruise line (actually lower than purchasing directly) ... I would buy from the cruise line, so they know where you are, if there's an issue !  Carnival will NOT let you buy from them.

To/from Anchorage is also more than a cab distance away !  Though there are other options available, such as the Alaska Railroad or through a tour operator, it could be hazardous, if there were complications on the highway or rail road that delayed you.

See story from last week.  Road closed from noon till @ 10pm(?).  Though this accident alone might cause me, in the future, only to buy transportation from the cruise line, if they don't offer the Alaska rail road, I'm still going to want to choose this choice !  Besides, the cruise lines know many of their cruisers are on the rail (especially if taking land packages too !
http://www.ktuu.com/news/news/anchorage-man-dies-in-seward-highway-crash/34481792

Maybe you are driving and leaving your car at a hotel ?  Just make sure you’ve set up arrangements in getting you to/from.  Meaning, know that your hotel is not miles away from the port or the savings of your hotel will be eat up by the cost of the cab.

If traveling to Hawaii, they are very tourist friendly, and know where most everything is, such as your pre-night(s) hotel and the cruise ship.  However, there are pre-purchase transportation companies available.

If traveling abroad, such as Europe, Asia, Australia, South America & such, I often do suggest buying your transfers to/from your cruise, directly from the cruise line.  Why ?  You’re in a foreign country.  You don’t know traffic.  You may not have the money exchange and they not take credit card.  Or maybe you’re coming in a day or few days early, and the cruise line won’t allow you to buy their transfers.  If coming in early, though it will be higher, I often suggest buying your hotel (many include transfers) directly with the cruise line.

I always ask my clients to call me for such needed advice.  And … No matter what they decide … Most all my clients travel day prior to port.

Note … If you buy your transportation to the ship … They will most likely wait, if there’s traffic issues.
Note … A port like Anchorage is still 1- 3 hours away from the ship.

 

Will there be group space available for YOUR family/friends cruise in 2016 ? July bookings are selling dates OUT … Even for individual cabins.

Whether folks realize or not, “early birds” like to get their vacation set in stone, 18-12 months prior to sailing … Especially groups of family/friends, who have been doing this for YEARS !

Group space is NOT like individual cabins.  The cruise lines only allow so many groups on any given sailing.  Once they reach MAX, there is no more group space.

And to top that … The more cabins that book on any given sailing, the less chance of your desired cabins being together.  That’s an EXTRA BIG REASON groups need to book early.  Or families with children.

Had call yesterday for 5N’s to the Bahamas June 2016 out Norfolk.  Group space GONE … Both dates !

Also booked yesterday, 2 cabins of 2 people each, for August 2016.  Only place I could get this family together was “far forward” !

Though the cruise lines only consider group space when there’s 8 cabins or more … Cruisers need to remember, as low as 3 cabins and 4 cabins, space gets tight, in booking near each other … Especially if you need cabins with 3 or 4 in a room !

There can be added value in booking your family/friends into group space …

1)      Lock into a rate for at least 30 days, while family/friends get their deposit together.  Otherwise, the cruise lines give max 2 DAYS to get in that deposit, in protecting your rate.
2)      There can be added amenities because group space was held.  Otherwise, if no group space, a 100 cabins can go with you and no added amenities.
3)      And “cruise credits” for the group leader.  But again, no group space at time of booking, and no cruise credits even if 100 cabins sail with you.

 

Peak dates, like Summer, Easter, and even fall, will sell out of group space quickly.  Besides these 2 dates out of Norfolk to the Bahamas, there are many other dates in I already can’t get group space for customers.  Example … Carnival’s new Vista … Carnival’s longer journey adventures !

The cruise lines told Cruises Inc at our convention, that 2016 would prove differently.  It is !

70% of my vacationers for the next year, are already booked by December, the year prior.  So come January, these folks are actually LATE … Which is when another 20% will book (January to mid-March).  The last 10% of my bookings, are the “last minute folks”.  And if they are trying to take a group of folks … Well, location and amenities can be a NULL !

GROUPS … IF YOU KEEP PUTTING OFF CALLING & COMMITTING FOR 2016 … GOOD LUCK !  Individual cabins who only need ¾ too …. Especially if you’re needed “close cabins” for your children.

Call today for 2016 !

Some airlines and hotels - Pulling the plug on discount websites. Future fees may be coming with these sites. Hotels want your direct calls !

So many folks that I know, use websites to buy their airfare and hotel.  I do not.  My fear has always been “the fine line rules” that no one reads !

Though many folks have been successful in using these sites, I have found that others have NOT.  Unless you’re in the industry like I am, you usually never hear about the unsuccessful usage.  Samples I’ve heard have been, hearing 2 weeks later, that their reservation are no longer being honored or when needing to back out, they couldn’t and/or couldn’t receive assistance.

I’ve always told folks, that I buy “directly” from airline sites, as that’s what I’ve read to do, in past years, from Industry Travel Writers.  And with hotels, they’ve told me themselves, the better rooms given to folks who call and buy direct … And if they just call, they most often match.

I also believe these sites cause confusion for folks.  Rates are not always lower !  Yet I find folks seldom check-out original sites, like USAirways or call the hotels directly !  SAVINGS they may be missing !

Read below … Understandably, hotels are tired of their losses !  Most hotels are franchises … This means they are individually owned, like our local McDonalds. 

Soon folks may miss out on more savings by using these sites, if there’s not aware ….

Here’s the “short of the story” on CBS This Morning  ….

“Customers bargain-hunting for the best online travel deals may find fewer options than before. Third-party sites like TripAdvisor and Expedia are featuring less options because airlines and hotel are holding back their business ….

When they started these OTAs ... it came at a time when airlines were in big trouble financially. So they went to them and said, 'Hey, let us sell all your unsold inventory. We'll be your friends," Greenberg said. "Airlines are doing better now than since the Wright brothers. They don't think they need them …

So far, Greenberg said, Delta Air Lines has removed their schedule and fair information from over 12 different sites including TripAdvisor, Hipmunk Inc. and CheapOair.com.

Hotels are stepping onto the battlefield too. Greenberg said a variety of hotels are turning away from third-party sites and may not honor existing reservations booked through OTAs.

"The big brands like Hilton, Hyatt, Marriott, Starwood -- they charge high franchise fees. Now the owners are upset, who are operating those hotels. Why? Because they are getting most of their bookings online from people like Expedia and Travelocity and they have to pay them a commission," Greenberg said.

Greenberg offered one piece of advice: Pick up the phone, and call the individual hotel. Customers may be able to find better deals that way …

About 52 percent of all the inventory is online. What about the other 48 percent? That's what they hold back. You should have that conversation even if we weren't doing this particular story," he said”.

Go here for uTube video:
http://www.cbsnews.com/news/airlines-hotels-pull-plug-discount-websites-tripadvisor-expedia/

 

 

 

Great July cruise offers. Waiting till July 31 could be hazardous to your plans ! Will there still be space ? Higher rates ? Insider Tips

As mentioned in my past blog articles, in talking with the cruise lines, last November, at our Cruises Inc conference, the cruise lines are in hopes of selling out sailings, far faster than the last few years.  Meaning, their goal, is in offering “amenities”, to entice folks in booking early.

Many cruisers, especially those who like to plan ahead, are doing as expected, and taking advantage of these offers.  Go here & see many July offers:  http://vwebb.cruisesinc.com/travel/promotion/cruise-event.do

The more bookings on a given sailing, the cruise rates rise.  Like an airline ticket, so many are sold at once price and when those are gone, prices go to the next tier of cost.  And just like airline tickets, you have no heads-up, as to how many cabins are available at the current rate, before it may jump up to that next tier. 

So unless you’ve been watching the price on a given date, you have no idea today, if your fellow cruisers, who bought 4 months ago, received a lower rate than is offered today.  Nor do you know, if you get a quote today, but don’t act on it, that when you call back in a day or two, that your sailing may have already taken a rise.

Some of the more popular sailings have been the Carnival Journeys.  These are the longer cruises that Carnival has offered.  Carnival has a Bermuda sailing October 23, for 7 nights out of Norfolk, that basically sold out of balconies, well over a year ago.  Also, group space, on several of the cruise lines, have already sold out for many sailings in 2016.  Four months ago, I tried to get group space on Carnival’s new Vista for value time during December 2016, and it was already gone !

Folks who can only sail during certain seasons, such as Summer and Holidays, need to book earlier than those who can sail in value season.  Also, folks who only want balconies, suites, or even family suites, must act quicker than others.  And if you need more than 2 in a room, these go faster !  And again, folks who want to sail in a group or form a group of family/friends/co-workers/reunions, need to act quicker than folks sailing alone !

I said above, that those traveling during the lower/value seasons, may not have to jump as quickly in booking, however, that’s not entirely true anymore.  Cruisers are learning value times, and these folks too, are booking early.  Again causing the rates to climb.  A good example is week after Thanksgiving !  As mentioned above, I couldn’t get group space on Carnival’s new Vista in December 2016.

Yet other value dates, have not yet taken a climb, over the last few months.  Example, I have a group sailing April 30 on the Carnival Glory, that is basically the same rate, as when we bought it 4 months ago.  Yet not sure why, when the itinerary is somewhat unique.  It’s going to Puerto Plata. A port I’ve not visited in 25 years !  So I too, am planning to go on this sailing.

I’m not saying “last minute buyers” won’t be able to find a great cruise rate.  But if you didn’t opt in buying early, as many others have, you will have missed out on the amenities …Whether it’s complimentary drinks, onboard credit, pre-paid gratuities and more !

Why not buy early.  Unless you are buying Carnival Early Saver rates, many other offers, you can usually cancel before final payment date, and receive your cruise line deposit back.  And better yet, there’s Trip Cancellation Insurance, especially those packages that “include pre-existing conditions”, in case you must cancel after penalty has set it.

A WIN-WIN to planning early ! ACT NOW … It’s almost the end of July !  Beware ... Folks who will wait till July 31 to act, may discover, no one can get through to the cruise lines that day !

 

 

Dream of being a travel agent ? Travel the World ? Partake in it’s many mythical FREE PERKS ? Or you could … “Take the perks” & leave the work for your agent ! Fun Read/Valuable insight.

Who wouldn’t want to be able to SEE THE WORLD on a “shoe string” budget ? 

It can be done !  Just apply hours of studying, piece your destination together, and opt to accommodate at where the wind may lead you !  You could stay at hostels, find folks around the world who will allow travelers to overnight with them free, or maybe even contact a local church for its members hospitality.

Oh … You were thinking more about … The FREE PERKS of a travel agent ?

 

Had someone ask me, this week … If I cruise free.  No !  She said, I’ve been so jealous cause I thought you did.  No !

Apparently many folks think travel agents travel free ! Matter of fact, over my many years in the business, I’ve had at least 2 customers get into the travel business, without ever letting me know.  And just lately, a girlfriend has done the same.  Though this last one just started, the other 2 haven’t done much with it.  Hmm, why ?  Truth learned ?  It’s work !  Your travel is not free !

There’s a book, that has been floating around for years, and I’ve even seen lately, as a post on facebook, encouraging folks to buy … You can travel free.  Though it’s been years, since I too have purchased/read the book, you’ll find many FREES, but it doesn’t really have to do with being a travel agent.

I admit, there may be some FREEBIES or discounts available to me as an agent, that I never check out.  It may require a lot of paperwork or partaking in an online class … Or approval won’t be given till last minute … Or the discount is just too small to worry with !

Hotels.  If lucky, we “might” get 10% off.  That basically covers the taxes.  Why not instead, be a AAA member, like I am, or AARP member, for the same 10% discount.  And you don’t even have to book with AAA nor at AARP !  The hotels give you these discounts, when booking direct.  FYI, I can’t have “both” discounts.  Also, years past, don’t know if it holds true today(?), AAA members could receive complimentary Travel tic sheets … Help plan your travels for you.  And they might (?) offer to buy your air flights for you with no fee.

I admit, I do get discounts at Marriott’s (and there may be others, I could do the same with).  My cost, $59-$99.  This took taking online classes, years ago, when I was first joining the business !  Then each year in October, I have to remember to renew my status, if I want to receive my new “certificates” in the mail by January.  This last year, everyone had to retake these hours of classes again.  However, for the last 3 years, either more & more Marriott’s do not offer agent participation at their location, or specific areas of travel are “blocked” during peak seasons.  Never can I use these in Alaska again !  I’ve not used the 6 certificates I receive each year, in my travels, for the last 3 years. 

Airfare.  Agents don’t fly free nor do we get any discount !  In past, but don’t know if it holds true today (?), agencies receive 6 complimentary airline tickets a year.  But these belong to the owner of the agency. 

I admit, about 15 years ago, I ran across an offer though United (?).  It was an agent & partner flight.  I have no idea, how I found this United person in Washington who booked my flight, nor know how to find her again, who allowed me to partake.  The one reason I was able to participate, was because no  complimentary agency airfare certificate was needed.  And yes, I paid about $600 and my roommate paid $700, to fly r/t from Washington to Singapore (Reg cost was $1900pp).

Car Rental.  I seldom look into this. At select times, you may get 10%.  But again, if you find a coupon to use or the car rental already has a discount, you can NOT apply a travel agent discount too.

Cruises. My cruises area not free.  About 18 years ago, I did get a free 4N cruise, because it was a last minute company seminar, but I did have to pay the taxes.  And 2 years ago, Carnival was giving travel agents a free cruise, and I went on the Carnival Splendor for Thanksgiving (taxes were free too).  But I understand Carnival has been giving MANY free cruises to cruisers in the last 2 years … Something to do with past participation in the casino (?) … Consider hitting the casino, when on your next cruise.

It’s true, from time to time, I do receive, lower cost offers on cruises.  But they are not free.  And there’s usually some rules that go with it.  I either have to take their classes online before I come or attend classes while onboard.  Other times, the offers are at the wrong time, just like it’s travelers, which is why they have the open space.  Or, you may not be guaranteed/approved till 2 weeks prior (and now you are paying higher air cost).  Others require you have an IATAN or CLIA card (see below, what it takes to have an IATAN card).

Years back, our annual conventions cruises at Cruises Inc, were heavily discounted.  But today, we have to bring onboard, so many staff, where we can’t charge them, cause they’re working (the cost is absorbed by the agents).  So these discounted cruises do not exist like years past.  AND … If the cruise line is offering perks for cruisers who buy or if the rate drops, we do NOT receive.  But yes, we often get a lot of perks while at convention, such as gifts and cocktail parties.  These are being paid for, by the participating cruise lines.  And we have no idea what these might be, till 30 days from sailing or till we get onboard and “participate” in the activities/seminars provided (you don’t show; you don’t get).

I’ve been on 137 cruises.  The majority, I paid for, months in advance for that lower cost, just like everyone else !  Maybe 20%, I’ve received at a discount or maybe even free.  See below, how you can cruise free without being an agent !

FAM TRIPS.  There are a lot of these.  And yes, there are many offers, in visiting destinations, at a lower cost.  However, some require you being a member of an organization or you pay higher. Others require you have an IATA or CLIA card (see below, what it takes to have an IATAN card). And more often than none, travels are offered when you and general travelers can’t get away, which is why there’s space.   Besides, you can’t get away to everything … You have stay home & work … Make money not only for traveling, but ….(see below, what it takes to have an IATAN card).

And FYI ... Many are for traveling to Europe.  Have you noticed the cost of airfare the last 3 years ?  Have you seen me travel to Europe in the last 3 years ?

 

Ok … Now that you know agents do not travel free … Let’s talk about the boo-coos of money that an agent makes. 

Think about it … Could you survive without pay ?

How many times do you call your agent & never buy ?  Do you get a charge ?
How many times do you call your agent & make a change ?  Do you get a charge ? 
How many times do you call your agent with questions ?  Do you get a charge ?
Have you ever cancelled ?

Fortunately, only a couple of times over my travel career … I have had a couple of folks say … “For what I’ve paid, I expect my agent to dadadada … “. 

For the most part, most agents don’t charge a dime to help you !  So the myth that you have paid your agent is not correct.
Agents are truly here in trying to help you with their industry expertise … All complimentary to you !
Think about it … Could you survive without pay ?

But agents get commission ?

They do.  But the traveler has to pay the “set travel cost”, whether they go through an agent or they opt in buying direct !  So the myth that this is coming out of the pocket of the traveler is not correct ! 
Agents are paid by cruise lines or tour operators for helping travelers with their industry expertise, “instead of” the cruise lines/tour operators having to do so.  The cruise line/tour operator want travelers to have the needed expertise in helping to make this a “good” vacation, for “less issues for them” !  Travelers who “opt” in not going through an agent for their expertise, is not only, not saving themselves a dime, but they are on their own with any issues, and without expertise backing.
Think about it … Could you survive without pay ?

Did you know, if the cost of the travelers package goes down, the agents commission is also lowered ? 

Lots of paperwork is required to get you that lower rate or upgrade.  Do agents charge their travelers ?
Think about it … Could you survive without pay ?

Airfare … Agents/nor agencies make commission on flights.

Think about it … Could you survive without pay ?

Hotel … Agent/agencies receive 10% “if” that hotel pays up.

Think about it … Could you survive without pay ?

 

Ok … Let’s talk about the needed IATAN card … For travel perks ! 

YEARLY, an agent must make & put a minimum of $5,000 of commission/pay in their pocket, to stay qualified for an IATAN card.

Doesn’t sound like much needed to qualify ?  Maybe you might want to go back and read examples above !   Or for further insight …

Did you know agents do not get their commission till the traveler return from their travel ?

So if you book for 2017, that’s when your agent gets paid.
It takes about 1 ½ to 2 years to get on your feet as an agent.
And months you have no folks traveling, you receive nothing !
Think about it … Could you survive without pay ?

Do you know the average commission amount ?  10%

Ok, so the travelers package cost is $1,000.  Are you thinking $100 ?  Then that would be est 50 packages, right ?
Is this 10% on the entire amount of the travelers package ?  NO !
Today, the est tax on a 7 night cruise for a $1000 package is about $325 (?).  So now we’re talking $67.50 in commission.  Now you need to sell 74 packages.
Now, if you work by yourself, and not through an agency, this $67.50 is yours.  If you don’t work alone, you might have to split by 50%.  Now you’ve made $18.75.  Now that’s 266 packages.
Think about it … Could you survive without pay ?

You say … Well why not be on your own and not connected to an agency ?

HHEHEHEHHEHEHEHEHEHEHEEHEHHEEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHEHE !!!!!
There a lot of laws in this industry.  Lot of rules.  Needed insurance. 
Not only do travelers “need a backing”, so do agents !
Not only this … But agents who work alone/on their own … Receive NO added discounts/amenities from the cruise lines … And often, not a chance at earning higher commissions or bonuses. 
So what advantages do you now have for the BENEFIT OF YOUR CUSTOMER to encourage them to buy from YOU ?
Think about it … Could you survive without pay ?

 

You’ve heard the ol saying … DON’T QUIT YOUR DAY JOB !

And if you can only participate “part time”  … Hmmmmmm !
What if your “part time” evenings are filled with caller who are already booked … That means no additional money earned that day !
I personally work on the phones 9-6pm, M-F only.  At night, I’m either finishing up with a call that came in before 6pm, or paperwork.  My weekends are my best time in getting needed paperwork done, when I’m on the phone.  FYI, I don’t have a husband, kids, nor grandkids that I must divide my time with.
Think about it … Could you survive without pay ?

Let’s talk about “perks” you could receive as a traveler WITHOUT having to be an agent … And leaving the work to your agent !

Above, I mentioned 10% hotel discounts.  AAA and AARP.  I’m not receiving better than you (other than maybe a Marriott once in a while “if” I can find a participating hotel in my area of travel) !

Let’s talk about Cruise credits ! 

And I don’t mean credit card points !  And I don’t mean past passenger perks !

Maybe not you … But many travelers are taking advantage of cruise credits.  This too is where my 20%, mentioned above, has come from. 

The cruise lines award YOU as a group leader.  You decided the date you want … Have your agent hold space specifically for you.  Now you invite family & friends to join you.  These cruise credits/earnings begin with only 8 couples of 16 people.  Sometimes … Not all the time … The cruise lines will run a sale, where this number is lowered.  AND … You can use points for your group, to get this number lowered.  SEE THE WORLD !

Where have I taken groups ? All over the World ... Alaska, Australia/New Zealand, Bermuda, Canada/New England, Caribbean, Hawaii, South America & more.  Call & join one of my groups today !

 

We use to call it ... Cruise Free.  But today ... So much has changed.  Taxes are never free.  Sometimes, 1/2 your cost is taxes.  And ... Cruise lines won't pay commission on your free ticket.  So this too is deducted from the amount.  See why we no longer say cruise free ... But instead, I call it cruise credits.

 

You say you don’t have that many friends ?  Then how do you think you can be an agent ?

Getting in this industry begins with you reaching out to family, friends, co-workers. 
If you can surpass getting a group together and sail … I’m sorry to say, your odds at being successful as an agent has just gone down.
That’s a true test … Start with putting a group together, before EVER considering the idea of being a travel agent.  If it works & you like it … You can either begin then … Or … Try it out another year … Or another cruise in the same year.  You may sadly learn, same folks can’t travel every year … Nor more than once a year.
Think about it … Could you survive without pay ?

If I had it to do all over again … I would have kept my real job.  I would have chosen 6 dates a year, and invite everyone I know, to sail with me, so I would get these cruise credits.  And I would let my agent do the work !  Why ? There are some days, I “wish” for such freedom.  Other days … I love what I do … Helping others out of a pinch … Getting more savings for my customer because of being part of the Cruises Inc team !

 

Consider cruising on cruise credits … And let your agent do the work.

Travel agent work is not for everyone !  Not that you don’t have it, but It takes a special type of personality, along with attention to details (thinking out of the box for others), and understanding industry rules !  And the education NEVER STOPS.  To be in our company, there are classes you must take ... Then  there's CLIA's cruise program to reach certain levels, like I'm a Master Cruise Specialists ...  Then there's the cruise line programs ... And a million Tour Operators.  This is not a "get educated over night" type of career !  Not only do you need the travel education, you have to learn "how the cruise lines/tour operators" work ... And if in our company, that insight too.  Not only for individuals, but for GROUPS !  My company offers 3-6 insightful seminars a week !

If you still want onboard as an agent … Call me … Cruises Inc is the best agency to be a part of !  We're not like any other agency or a franchize ... We are team ... I'm not alone ... I have a 63 person back office staff ! And as the "largest cruise-only distributor", we get the best perks/pricing "from the cruise lines", FBO our clients !

Oh yeah, we have a few internal quirks too.
But I made the right decision 25 years ago … And have not change my mind … FBO my client … And for me !

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Avoiding travel panic, can be as horrific as a grounded flight or as simple as a flat tire. Passports, Trip Cancellation Insurance, buying online – Opps, how much can your sanity handle.

My main topic today is about arriving to your destination early.  Yet, not choosing to have a passport for your US departure cruise, not buying Trip Cancellation Insurance, or opting to buy online, can bring about, same type horror stories.

Sadly, due to the limitations in amount of vacation time most folks have, it often sways their choice, for arrival date of their vacation.  Though some vacations, such as personally planned or a drive-to vacation, may not cause any type of penalty to when one arrives, others do.  Such as to a hotel, or a land based package … Or missing a cruise.

Being from a small city, it’s not as difficult in convincing folks, especially if flying, that they need to plan to arrive to their destination at least a day prior.  However, folks from a larger city, or those who travel to a larger city to fly out, even with a direct flight, should consider flying down the day prior.

Though I choose to pre-warn folks, in traveling to their destination early, its difficult in giving all the many examples of what I’ve seen in 25 years, due to NOT wanting to jinx the situation just by talking about it. Yet on the other hand, maybe the examples that pop into my head, are a pre-intuition with this person (?)   It’s the same type of thoughts, when I hear folks opting in not getting a passport for their cruise or not choosing to buy Trip Cancellation Insurance at time of deposit (our insurance covers pre-existing medical situations, when buy at time of deposit) … And oh my, those who opt in buying their vacation online !

Like Trip Cancellation Insurance, having a passport, or not buying online … Traveling situations, can be out of your control.  Yet, these type se, you can pre-decisions could help you in making your vacation plans less stressful !  Why add to those “other out of your control travel situations” which may arise, when you can at least choose to pre-avoid these !

Ok, I’m going with a few horror stories I’ve seen, with folks who don’t opt in arriving early …

*Your ship decides it must leave “early” ?
*Flat tire, whether you’re driving all the way to your destination or just to the airport ?
*Personal wreck or wreck ahead of you – Traffic delay ?
*What about road construction ?
*Weather ?
*Remember 911 ?
*Did you see American was grounded in PA the other day ?  Yes, many folks had to drive to another airport to fly out.  And yes, many missed their cruise.
*What about an emergency landing needed to a different airport ?
*Did you know folks have lost luggage even with a direct flight ?

Here’s a few others, when not opting for Trip Cancellation Insurance, passport … And oh, folks who buy online without the help of a Travel Professional !
*Unknown health situations, few days from travel … Whether it’s you or family ?
*Do you have health insurance out of country ?
*Are you traveling in same room with a non-family member ?
*Do you know the cost of a helicopter, to pick up an emergency victim ?
*Do you really know the definition of a pre-existing medical condition ?
*For whatever reason, your ship must end it’s course in an out-of-country port ?
*You miss the ship in port due to uncontrollable situations in port ?
*You need to fly home from your cruise ? 
*Are you willing to pay out of pocket for help, when you didn't book from a Travel Professional ?

Of course, we don’t want to “think about” possible disasters.  But “not thinking about it” doesn’t cause those down-the-road uncontrollable situations to not happen.  Life is life … It has it’s daily disasters.  And your vacation is not free from this.

And though, such situations are NO FUN for anyone … Preparing is better than NOT BEING PREPARED for that which you could have chosen to control !  Limit the uncontrollable by controlling what you can !

Not to hurt anyone’s feelings …  But if you are a procrastinator … A person who tends to be late; the cause of others being late; or traveling with someone who tends to be late … One who likes to save as much money as they can … Who doesn’t like wasting time … Who works better under less stress; or who makes everyone miserable when stressed … THEN I’M TALKING TO YOU MOSTLY !

It’s not about being “negative” !  It’s about being the best prepared you can be.  It's not that you will be stress-free when situations happen ... It's about avoiding the added stress you can control.  And food for thought … In some situations, it’s about having a better grip on knowing & handling  yourself … Or maybe the person traveling with you !