Frequently Asked Questions
We realize choosing the right vacation for you and your family can be intimidating and you may not know where to start and what to ask. Therefore we have assembled some of the most frequent questions we receive in order to get you started and we hope you will allow us an opportunity to help you build your dream vacation.
1. Do I need a passport (visa) to travel?
Many destinations require specific documents for travel. For up to date, accurate requirements, visit the state department website, www.travel.state.gov. In fact, save it to your favorites!
2. Can I use my cell phone abroad/on the cruise ship?
Contact your cell phone service provider to inquire about cell phone coverage and calling & data plans. Without a proper plan, you will incur international and roaming charges.
3. Is internet available on the cruise ship?
All modern cruise ships have internet and wifi spots. Service varies from ship to ship. Cruise lines offer internet packages of minutes. Prices vary from one line to another. Although rare, there are a few cruise lines that include internet at no cost.
4. Is my destination safe to travel to?
Concerns about travel are valid. We live in a crazy world. Deciding to travel is a personal decision. I want my clients to be fully looking forward to their vacation, without hesitation. I don't force clients to make quick decisions they may later regret. I want clients to travel eagerly and with excitement. Is it safe in your destination? Is it safe in your backyard? You'll have to make that call. Again, the state department website is a great resource for travel alerts and warnings.
5. Is a non-refundable airline ticket really non-refundable?
Most airlines will give you a credit towards future travel, with a limited time frame if you cancel your flights. You must cancel, not just fail to show up. The airlines will charge a change fee of course.
6. Does it cost more to utilize the services of a travel agent?
Normally it costs less because agents save you money with free perks and amenities and sometimes reduced rates. While some agencies charge fees for their services, I do not charge research, planning or booking fees.
7. Can I drive in a foreign country?
An international drivers license is required. Please visit DMV.org for more information.
8. What are the best destinations to travel to?
This is a broad question but one that is asked often. I help clients decide what is best for them after a thorough consultation. We discuss interests, abilities, past travel experience, hobbies and of course budget to help determine the best destinations for them.
9. What if the price goes down on my cruise?
Another very common question. Most cruise lines allow repricing prior to final payment. Once final has been made the cruise lines are under no obligation to lower fares. It's always best to compare the price AND amenities you have already to what the new cost and amenities will be. Often you already have the best offer. When you reprice, you reprice at the current prevailing rate and new amenities if there are any. For example, let's say you booked a cruise at $1299'per person and got prepaid gratuities and a $50 on-board credit when you initially booked. Then a few months later, but prior to the final payment being due, the price of the cruise drops to $1199 per person. It would appear that it is $100 less per person. But now there are no gratuities or on-board credit included. You're better off staying with your original pricing.
10. Are all-inclusive resorts a good value?
They can be. Having everything all in one price is convenient and makes planning very easy. Knowing the cost of your vacation in advance insures you will not exceed your budget. However, all-inclusive vacations typically prevent travelers from truly experiencing the destination. Staying in local accommodations, eating regional cuisine and meeting local people are experiences often missed while staying at an all-inclusive.
11. When is the best time to visit XYZ destination?
Many locations have limited tourist seasons. Alaska is a great example with a short season, May to September. Other places like Hawaii can be visited twelve months a year. Deciding when to go somewhere can depend on weather, availability of resources or activities and volume of visitors. I visited the same location in St Thomas at two completely different times of the year. Our local beach was a surfing hotspot on one visit and was totally flat calm on the second visit. So no surfing. Sometimes travelers are looking for something very specific that will limit when they should take a trip. Seeing the northern lights, whale watching, bull fighting in Spain or the Military Tattoo in Scotland. All of these require travel at specific times.
12. When should I buy my airfare?
Despite many online articles and tv program claims, most travel professionals will tell you there is no secret to buying air tickets. It's a gamble. Buy it when you need it. If I had a crystal ball to foresee when air deals were coming out, I'd be a very wealthy travel agent.
13. Do I need vaccinations or medications for my trip?
This is of course determined by your itinerary. You should be notified of any requirements such as a yellow fever vaccination and/or malaria prophylaxis. It's recommended you consult your doctor regarding your intended travel as they may have additional suggestions specific to your health and medical condition.
14. How much luggage can I bring?
Airlines have specific restrictions on size and weight of luggage as well as the number of pieces you can bring. Cruise lines typically do not have restrictions but your empty luggage is stored in your stateroom or suite. Keep that in mind. If you are going to Africa or another location where you will be flying on smaller, regional planes, it is not up uncommon to have a very reduced allowance for luggage.
15. Are there group discounts?
Yes there are. Escorted tours, cruises and even resorts offer special pricing for groups. The number of guests required to qualify as a group varies. A great agent like me can negotiate additional perks for your group as well.
16. How much local currency should I bring?
Because credit card purchases are more common these days, you don't need as much cash. Credit card purchases can be disputed if necessary as well. Some cash is recommended though, typically for tipping guides and drivers as well as small purchases like post cards or coffee. An amount of $50 per traveler a day is suggested. Consult your credit card company regarding foreign transaction fees and to let them know of your travel plans. They can also let you know which banks they partner with so you can use their ATM's if needed.
17. What should I pack?
Proper documents, a valid credit card, your passport and any required visas, clothing, comfortable shoes, medications and over the counter items such as Tylenol, band-aids and such. A money belt or a Running Buddy is a great idea to protect your cash and credit cards. Make copies of your passport in case you lose it.
1. Do I need a passport (visa) to travel?
Many destinations require specific documents for travel. For up to date, accurate requirements, visit the state department website, www.travel.state.gov. In fact, save it to your favorites!
2. Can I use my cell phone abroad/on the cruise ship?
Contact your cell phone service provider to inquire about cell phone coverage and calling & data plans. Without a proper plan, you will incur international and roaming charges.
3. Is internet available on the cruise ship?
All modern cruise ships have internet and wifi spots. Service varies from ship to ship. Cruise lines offer internet packages of minutes. Prices vary from one line to another. Although rare, there are a few cruise lines that include internet at no cost.
4. Is my destination safe to travel to?
Concerns about travel are valid. We live in a crazy world. Deciding to travel is a personal decision. I want my clients to be fully looking forward to their vacation, without hesitation. I don't force clients to make quick decisions they may later regret. I want clients to travel eagerly and with excitement. Is it safe in your destination? Is it safe in your backyard? You'll have to make that call. Again, the state department website is a great resource for travel alerts and warnings.
5. Is a non-refundable airline ticket really non-refundable?
Most airlines will give you a credit towards future travel, with a limited time frame if you cancel your flights. You must cancel, not just fail to show up. The airlines will charge a change fee of course.
6. Does it cost more to utilize the services of a travel agent?
Normally it costs less because agents save you money with free perks and amenities and sometimes reduced rates. While some agencies charge fees for their services, I do not charge research, planning or booking fees.
7. Can I drive in a foreign country?
An international drivers license is required. Please visit DMV.org for more information.
8. What are the best destinations to travel to?
This is a broad question but one that is asked often. I help clients decide what is best for them after a thorough consultation. We discuss interests, abilities, past travel experience, hobbies and of course budget to help determine the best destinations for them.
9. What if the price goes down on my cruise?
Another very common question. Most cruise lines allow repricing prior to final payment. Once final has been made the cruise lines are under no obligation to lower fares. It's always best to compare the price AND amenities you have already to what the new cost and amenities will be. Often you already have the best offer. When you reprice, you reprice at the current prevailing rate and new amenities if there are any. For example, let's say you booked a cruise at $1299'per person and got prepaid gratuities and a $50 on-board credit when you initially booked. Then a few months later, but prior to the final payment being due, the price of the cruise drops to $1199 per person. It would appear that it is $100 less per person. But now there are no gratuities or on-board credit included. You're better off staying with your original pricing.
10. Are all-inclusive resorts a good value?
They can be. Having everything all in one price is convenient and makes planning very easy. Knowing the cost of your vacation in advance insures you will not exceed your budget. However, all-inclusive vacations typically prevent travelers from truly experiencing the destination. Staying in local accommodations, eating regional cuisine and meeting local people are experiences often missed while staying at an all-inclusive.
11. When is the best time to visit XYZ destination?
Many locations have limited tourist seasons. Alaska is a great example with a short season, May to September. Other places like Hawaii can be visited twelve months a year. Deciding when to go somewhere can depend on weather, availability of resources or activities and volume of visitors. I visited the same location in St Thomas at two completely different times of the year. Our local beach was a surfing hotspot on one visit and was totally flat calm on the second visit. So no surfing. Sometimes travelers are looking for something very specific that will limit when they should take a trip. Seeing the northern lights, whale watching, bull fighting in Spain or the Military Tattoo in Scotland. All of these require travel at specific times.
12. When should I buy my airfare?
Despite many online articles and tv program claims, most travel professionals will tell you there is no secret to buying air tickets. It's a gamble. Buy it when you need it. If I had a crystal ball to foresee when air deals were coming out, I'd be a very wealthy travel agent.
13. Do I need vaccinations or medications for my trip?
This is of course determined by your itinerary. You should be notified of any requirements such as a yellow fever vaccination and/or malaria prophylaxis. It's recommended you consult your doctor regarding your intended travel as they may have additional suggestions specific to your health and medical condition.
14. How much luggage can I bring?
Airlines have specific restrictions on size and weight of luggage as well as the number of pieces you can bring. Cruise lines typically do not have restrictions but your empty luggage is stored in your stateroom or suite. Keep that in mind. If you are going to Africa or another location where you will be flying on smaller, regional planes, it is not up uncommon to have a very reduced allowance for luggage.
15. Are there group discounts?
Yes there are. Escorted tours, cruises and even resorts offer special pricing for groups. The number of guests required to qualify as a group varies. A great agent like me can negotiate additional perks for your group as well.
16. How much local currency should I bring?
Because credit card purchases are more common these days, you don't need as much cash. Credit card purchases can be disputed if necessary as well. Some cash is recommended though, typically for tipping guides and drivers as well as small purchases like post cards or coffee. An amount of $50 per traveler a day is suggested. Consult your credit card company regarding foreign transaction fees and to let them know of your travel plans. They can also let you know which banks they partner with so you can use their ATM's if needed.
17. What should I pack?
Proper documents, a valid credit card, your passport and any required visas, clothing, comfortable shoes, medications and over the counter items such as Tylenol, band-aids and such. A money belt or a Running Buddy is a great idea to protect your cash and credit cards. Make copies of your passport in case you lose it.
