Yacht Cruising

Ever wonder what it would be like to live like the rich and famous for a week? Compagnie du Ponant can bring that experience to you through a yacht cruise.

Their small capacity ships are able to access mythical destinations and secret ports in which large ships are not capable of docking. Their largest ship, L'Austral, has 132 suites, and their smallest, Le Ponant, has only 32.

The sheer elegance of yacht cruising is unparalleled and makes for the perfect honeymoon or special occaission with your significant other. From the Greek Isles to Asia, Compagnie du Ponant has something for everyone. For more information on one of these magnificent ships please contact Katina Merino at 614-878-2527.

Why go to a Cruise Specialist when booking a cruise?

Why should someone call a Cruise Specialist instead of directly going to the cruise line when booking a cruise? I got this question today and I thought it would be a great topic to post about.

Nowadays there are many ways for consumers to book trips on their own but there are many advantages to booking through a Cruise Specialist.

The following is an open letter from Joseph A. Watters, President of Crystal Cruises to newspaper and magazine travel editors:

Dear Travel Editor,


"Why should I use a travel agent?" As a veteran travel executive, that's a question I'm often asked. Today, with the overwhelming number of sources for travel information (the Internet, cable television, newspapers, magazines, guidebooks, etc.), it's no wonder the consumer is confused. Yet that's precisely why the services of a professional travel consultant are more valuable than ever.

In January, the television news magazine, 20/20, reported the results of a test in which travel agents beat consumers at uncovering the best airfares. However, it is much more than the "lowest fare" that provides the compelling argument for a good travel agent.

The best thing an agent can do is to match up a traveler with the vacation that's right for them. The professional travel consultant builds relationships with their clients to learn their interests and lifestyles, as well as their dispositions.

Below is a list of some of the important services, which are either provided free or for a nominal charge, by travel agents:

1. Distilling the product information: Through an on-going and time-consuming process of familiarization, continuing education and customer feedback, the agent becomes a travel expert.

2. Investigating and supplying competitive information: No single supplier is going to advise a consumer that a better route or a better fare is available on a competing carrier.

3. Staying abreast of the most current and timely promotions: Via daily faxes, agent-only e-mail transmissions, and their relationships with their district sales managers, agents are obtaining the most current promotional information.

4. Analyzing the current promotions: The cheapest is not always the best.

5. Clarifying the fine print, such as cancellation penalties and restrictions: Again, the benefits of a professional's experience can save a traveler money . . . and headaches.

6. Making recommendations for travel-related options: Travel agents share the to pack for different travel options.

7. Simplifying the research and subsequent transaction: Like a personal shopper, agents can provide one-stop shopping for travelers who require air arrangements, rental cars, cruise accommodations and hotel stays - with suggestions that are in the best interest of the client, not the supplier.

8. Enhancing the trip with value-added benefits and amenities: Agents can add to the client's experience by sending a bottle of wine, providing a special land package, a specific escort or other customer amenities.

9. Using their clout to obtain the best possible in seemingly impossible situations: Whether it's airline seats, hotel rooms or cruise space, the travel agent has more buying power than the consumer.

10. Getting problems resolved: The agent serves as the consumer's advocate in the event something inadvertently goes wrong.

The use of outside service providers for many transactions, such as tax preparation, isn't questioned. Similarly, if one is going to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars, as well as a good chunk of valuable leisure time, it makes great sense to use a professional.
I hope you'll consider sharing this information in future consumer interest columns.

Sincerely,
JOSEPH A. WATTERS
President

Long story short - we have access to all of the different rates and promotions offered by ALL of the cruise lines. I get about 20 e-mails a day from cruise lines offering special deals and promotions. These promotions are not available to the consumer when looking for a quote online.

So next time you need help planning your next vacation give us a call!