Tips
for Selecting a Virtual Travel Specialist
Gone are the
days of relying on your neighborhood travel agent or spending
the first day of your vacation hunting for a local outfitter or
guide. Reliable travel specialists are located in virtually every
corner of the world and can now be accessed on the web.
Whether you
are searching for a tour operator, travel agency or outfitter,
the following tips will help you weed through the plethora of
travel specialists hawking their wears online.
Websites
The design and
content of a company’s website speaks volumes about the way they
do business.
A travel specialist’s website should provide information that
is useful, informative and fun.
The contact information, including a phone number and an email
address, should be easy to locate.
The site should also include all relevant information, such as
the cost of an excursion, maps and directions. And, for those
engaging an adventure specialist, a packing list, either directly
in the content or in the form of an FAQ (frequently asked questions).
Visible track
record
Great website
but how do I know they can deliver? Assessing a travel specialists
credentials is not as difficult as it sounds.
Many industry associations and tourist boards list members and
accredited agencies on their websites.
Check references, read testimonials from previous clients, pose
questions on a travel forum.
Knowledge and
experience
Nothing can
be a substitute for knowledge and experience.
Determine the agency or outfitter’s knowledge of your travel destination
as well as the type of adventure you wish to experience.
Find out how long they have been in the business and whether they
are accustomed to organizing tours for singles, families or seniors.
Location of
the outfitter
If they are
not located in the country you will be traveling to you may also
wish to understand:
Who will sort out any problems, accidents, or emergencies that
may arise during your holiday?
When was the last time they biked down that country road?
Or how they will obtain a refund for the boat tour that was cancelled
due to inclement weather.
Client service
If communicating
with the specialist is a challenge there is a good chance your
trip will turn out to be a disaster. Select a specialist that
is committed to organizing quality trips and returning satisfied
clients.
How quickly does the agency or outfitter respond to your emails
and telephone calls?
Are they eager to assist you with the planning of your vacation?
Do they go the extra mile to customize your itinerary?
Does the proposed itinerary reflect your interests?
Cost vs. Value
Get more than
one proposal and compare.
Find out what is and what is not included in the price.
Determine the location and quality of the accommodation.
How many meals are included and whether they are buffet or a la
carte.
Is the trip fully guided or will you be touring on your own?
In addition you will want to know what, if any, sightseeing is
included and whether you will have any free time.
Conditions
Make sure to
read the fine print before you commit. The terms and conditions
should clearly spell out your responsibilities as well as those
of the specialist.
What is the company's policy on reservations, deposits and cancellations?
Can a tour or excursion be cancelled for a lack of bookings?
Who is responsible for additional payments in the event of a currency
fluctuation?
Copyright ©
more2explore S.r.l. All rights reserved.
Ann LoCicero
is the founder of kids can travel an emergent website for families
intent on making the most of their leisure time together.
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