Why do people still use travel agents when you can book anything online yourself?
The need for qualified travel advisors is on the rise. In this age of artificial intelligence (AI) there are so many choices online that it becomes overwhelming noise and leads to decision fatigue. It can be easy for someone to click on the wrong thing and become the victim of fraud. More often, people think they are finding the best deal until they get to the transaction page and find out that they will owe a bunch of hidden taxes and fees. People want a personal experience with someone they trust. At Experience Joy Travel, I am your "Travel Advisor" and I curate personalized, experience-based journeys using my expertise, industry connections, and knowledge. I design comprehensive trips, often providing in-destination support, which is a higher level of service than a traditional agent. "Travel Agent" and "Travel Advisor" are often used interchangeably, but the word "advisor" emphasizes the consultative and design-focused aspects of the role.
What services do you provide?
My services include an in-depth consultation and discovery meeting, research and development of the itinerary, revisions and customizations, booking and managing all components, and help and support before traveling, while traveling, and after travel is completed. Components included: Guided tours, hotels and resorts, airfare, rental car, cruise, insurance and airport transfers. You can call or message your personal travel agent any time with questions or concerns and expect a swift response. You will also receive a detailed online virtual itinerary that can be downloaded, printed or viewed in the Trip App on your mobile device. This makes traveling easy, with tickets, confirmations, advice, and suggestions attached to your travel itinerary. You will have everything you need for your vacation right in your hands.
I save your precious time.
I have answers for the questions you didn't know to ask.
I have experience, knowledge, and access to up-to-date industry information.
I have personal connections with travel suppliers, hoteliers, cruise lines, and tour operators all over the world.
I provide Virtuoso amenities (example below).
I am personal and accountable.
I am committed to you having the travel experience you desire.
What are your service costs?
There is a one-time cost of $150 per adult traveler for travel advising services at Experience Joy Travel Company, which is called the "Service Retainer". Children are complimentary. You will receive more back in value for your vacation due to my affiliation with Virtuoso, which will often gift you valuable upgrades, exclusive experiences, and other fine details.
Why do you charge a service fee? Don't you get commission from the travel companies you book my vacation with?
Not all companies pay commission, and this practice has been declining in recent years. In fact, airlines are one example of a supplier that does not pay commission whatsoever. Many travel partners I work with compensate me for the services I provide them, which they would have to do for themselves if I did not, and at a greater cost. In some cases, these commissions are no longer large enough to compensate me for what I do for them as well as the time I invest in my client.
Can I transfer an existing booking to you?
This is sometimes possible depending on which cruise line or tour company you booked through and how long it has been since the booking was made, however, even if it is possible it is not guaranteed that I will accept your booking if the transfer process is complicated. It is better to simply start with my advising service than to backtrack.
Do I end up paying more for my vacation by going through you instead of booking online on my own?
No. When you browse online for discounted travel there are often many hidden fees that are not disclosed to you in the initial prices shown, and therefore it may look like you would get a better deal booking on your own. Often, a hotel or cruise will show you the price without the taxes or fees, or with a coupon or promotion added that does not apply to you. When I show you a proposal I will include all of the necessary details so that you have an accurate idea of the total cost. I will also suggest choosing one of my preferred partners to avoid the "nickel and diming" I often see with large travel corporations. You will find that when you choose quality travel products and partners your experience and value expectation is exceeded.
Why shouldn't I book directly with a cruise line, hotel, or tour operator where they won't charge me fees?
Because they do not provide the unbiased research and consultation service that I do. In fact, they are often not interested in finding the best choice for you. My loyalty is to my client, and helping you find what is right for you.
Experience Joy Travel Company LLC
Rebekah Esquibel, Owner, Medford, OR, 1-833-TRIP JOY, becky@experience-joy.com
This agency is an independent affiliate of PTN Travel, a Virtuoso® Member. State of California Seller of Travel #2152037-50 Florida Seller of Travel License #ST43007 State of Washington Seller of Travel #604-994-859