DON’T WAIT to take advantage of the amazing sales available, in all areas of travel. The deals will come to an abrupt end as soon as the economy gains sustained upward momentum.
It is just killing the travel industry to offer their products at reduced rates.
So a gentle manipulation happens. They are sort of offering sales.
And that is exactly what you need to be looking out for. Are you really being offered a deal? Are you paying to take advantage of the offer? Can you get a better deal than the one you are being offered?
Consider airline sales. The ad says $39 from Atlanta to New York City. After reading all the details and restrictions, this is their deal- you can fly Tuesday or Wednesday on the 7am flight, return on any flight after 8pm, and add $40 each way (yes that price is one way) for taxes and fees. You have to stay 2 nights at the downtown Marriott (a lot of partnering going on) and eat one meal at Quiznos. Oh yeh, your seat will be a middle one in rows 30 and up.
It's like going to the grocery store. New York strip steak is on sale-two for one. Steak isn't on your shopping list but how can you not take advantage of such a good deal. You find two you like then notice the expiration date is tomorrow. You are going out for dinner the next two nights. Do you buy and freeze them for that not as good taste or act sensibly and pass up the deal. It is only a good deal if you were planning to buy it in the first place.
As a travel consultant I get a constant flow of new clients who didn't need me before they booked their vacation online. Why on earth do you need help when it is so easy to book your own trip ?? I won't even begin to talk about the possible pitfalls and horror stories about hard earned money lost or poorly spent.
A realization that happens after you hit the buy button and get the fine print.
And the funny thing is- it doesn't cost you to have me confirm your good deal and then book it for you. I get paid by the hotel or cruise line or rental car company. They know I will bring them more business if they treat my clients well. They consider you a one shot deal. So what if your room faces the dumpster.
You can often get reduced rates from travel merchants if you ask the right questions. Like- what is your week day rate? And do you give a discount for more than two nights booked?
But you have to talk to the person who makes the decisions.
It is a fraternity between hotel/cruise managers and travel agents. The good agents will talk to the managers and ask for amenities and upgrades. I am one of those good ones. Particularly with cruises.
For ANY travel need or question –
Jo Giraudo [email protected]
Jo Giraudo ©
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