I just watched a flurry of emails go back and forth between several of my associates at Brownell Travel. One advisor had a question about planning a trip to Patagonia, so she sent out a request for more information. She immediately received replies from other advisors who had either been there recently, or were currently planning trips for their own clients or themselves. (Sometimes we get a reply from an advisor who is currently at a destination – can’t get any more up to date than that!)
Patagonia has recently been affected by volcanoes & fires, so the advisor wanted to know about airport and hotel closures. One airport is closed for a few months, and while another has re-opened, an advisor warned her that some airlines were refusing to fly into it. The airline, however, was still allowing travelers to book flights there, without disclosing that they would be landing at an alternate airport and then have to take a 3-6 hr bus ride!
Fortunately, the travel suppliers we work with knew about all this and forwarded the information on so our clients would not have any unpleasant surprises.
This is a great example of how a travel advisor can save you time, money, and stress, especially when traveling to a remote or exotic destination. There is a wealth of information on the internet, but why waste time trying to sort out what is up to date and relevant? We go directly to our local partners in a destination to make sure we have the most current and accurate information, as well as insider tips to minimize hassles and create a one-of-a-kind experience. And should anything go wrong while our clients are traveling, we know they are in good hands with local contacts who know how to quickly and efficiently come to the rescue.
Your time is valuable, and your vacation time is especially precious. So think twice about relying on the internet to tell you everything you need to know to plan a smooth and hassle-free trip. The most valuable information is often not out there for the general public, you have to talk to someone "in the know" - your trusted travel advisor.
