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Why It’s Worth Using A Travel Advisor

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More people are traveling, and the world is getting smaller. With that being said, the choices available for travel can be overwhelming. I know how much of a challenge planning a vacation can be. It can be especially difficult if you’re not familiar with the destination or don’t have much experience traveling. Or, if you’re like me, finding the perfect deal that’s as close to free as possible can sometimes cause quite a headache. Depending on where you’re going and what you plan to do, a lot of research will go into the planning process. That’s where a travel advisor (a.k.a. travel agent) can come in handy. A travel advisor can help you save time and money and ensure that your trip is tailored to your preferences and needs. Here’s why you should consider using a travel advisor for your next vacation.

What Do Travel Advisors Do?

A travel advisor is a professional who provides personalized travel planning and advice. We work with clients to create customized vacation packages, navigate complex itineraries, and ensure that the trip runs smoothly from start to finish. Travel advisors are knowledgeable of travel destinations, activities, and accommodations, and we use this knowledge to provide clients with recommendations that match their unique preferences and interests.

Your advisor will take the time to get to know your travel style, budget, and interests, and will craft a customized itinerary that will exceed your expectations. Let’s say you’re looking for a romantic getaway, a travel advisor can help you find the perfect destination and activities so you and your boo thang can have memorable experiences. Travel advisors handle all or most of the details of your trip, which can include booking flights and accommodations to arranging transportation and activities. This takes the stress and hassle of planning off you, allowing you to relax and enjoy your time leading up to the trip. There are so many benefits to using a travel advisor.

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What Are The Benefits Of Booking With A Travel Advisor?

Travel advisors have extensive knowledge and experience in the travel industry, which means we can provide expert advice and recommendations for your trip. With our insider knowledge and connections, we’re able to help you save time and money. We can recommend great deals and promotions and have access to exclusive travel packages that aren’t available to the general public. By using a travel advisor, you’ll be getting the most bang for your buck.

You’ll Save Money

A travel advisor can save you time and effort. Instead of spending hours researching flights, hotels, and activities, just simply tell your advisor what you’re looking for and let them do all the work. Travel advisors have relationships with hotels, cruise lines, and tour operators that allow them to offer you exclusive rates and perks. This can include room upgrades, complimentary breakfast, spa treatments, and more. By using a travel advisor, you can save money while enjoying luxurious travel experiences.

Travel advisors can also assist with travel insurance, which can save you money in the event of trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or other unexpected events. We can also provide assistance with flight delays or lost luggage. A travel advisor is a valuable resource for any traveler.

You’ll Get Professional Advice

Your travel advisor can provide valuable tips on everything from packing to dining and sightseeing. As I stated before, your travel advisor can also offer advice on how to save money and time while traveling. You’ll receive expert recommendations for destinations based on your preferences, interests, and budget. We can also plan the itinerary for your trip, including transportation, accommodations, and activities. If you’ll be traveling internationally, a travel advisor can provide information and help with visa and passport requirements, and help you acquire any necessary documentation. Certain destinations pose health and safety risks, which your travel advisor can forewarn you about and advise you on destination-specific vaccination requirements, travel insurance, and other precautions.

Having some familiarity with your destination’s cultural customs and etiquette (here’s an example) can help you avoid misunderstandings and feel more comfortable in unfamiliar environments. Your travel advisor can provide information and advice in regard to your destination’s customs.

Travel Advisors Can Make Your Life Easier

Another great benefit of working with a travel advisor is that they can personalize your itinerary based on your preferences and needs. So if you have special mobility requirements or need child-friendly accommodations, your travel advisor can take care of that. Rather than spending hours researching and booking your own travel arrangements, you can simply tell your advisor what you’re looking for and let them take care of the rest. This can save you time and stress and can ensure that your trip goes smoothly from start to finish. In the event that something goes wrong during your trip, your advisor can help you resolve the issues. If you’re planning a trip, don’t hesitate to reach out to a travel advisor and see how they can help you make the most of your experience.

Is It Expensive To Book With A Travel Advisor?

The cost of using a travel advisor varies depending on the level of service you need and your destination. Travel advisors charge fees based on the complexity of the service you request. Some charge no fee for booking a hotel, but add a fee for additional services. Booking flights will usually come with a fee. Advisors’ fees can range from fifty dollars to several thousand dollars, depending on the complexity of the itinerary and the length of the trip. Even if a fee is charged, using a travel advisor can still save you money in the long run. As I mentioned before, travel advisors have access to exclusive deals and discounts that are not available to the general public. They can also help you avoid costly mistakes, such as booking the wrong flights or hotels, which can end up costing you more in the end.

Find A Good Travel Advisor

Using the services of a great travel advisor can make all the difference in your travel experience. To ensure you’re in good hands, consider using a travel advisor affiliated with a reputable agency. They will have access to a wealth of information and resources that can help them plan the right trip for you. Because they have a reputation to uphold, they will be more likely to provide high-quality service.

Another way to find a good travel advisor is to ask for referrals from friends and family. If someone you know has had a positive experience with an advisor, you most likely will, too. It’s easy to Google them and check out online reviews to get a sense of the quality of service offered by different advisors. When you do find an advisor you like, take the time to build a relationship with them. This will allow them to get to know you and your travel preferences, enabling them to better plan your travels. Make sure your advisor knows your budget, interests, and any other specific needs you may have. They can help you navigate the overwhelming amount of information available online, and ensure that your trip is well-suited to your needs.

A Final Word

By using the services of a travel advisor, you can rest easy, knowing that your vacation is in capable hands. Travel advisors have the expertise and know-how to handle all aspects of your trip and save you money. They can also provide you with insider tips and recommendations so that your vacation is tailored to your preferences and interests. You can sit back, relax, and let someone else take care of the details. While there may be a small fee associated with using a travel advisor, the benefits outweigh the cost.

Have you ever used the help of a travel advisor? What was your experience? I’d love to hear about it.

Until next time,

Happy travels!

View of the sunset over the ocean in Zihuatanejo, Mexico. Be happy while traveling solo!

How to Be Happy While Traveling Alone

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Estimated reading time: 3 minutes

Traveling alone can be a bit scary when you first get started. I remember being an excited but nervous wreck the first few times I traveled solo, but I quickly learned how incredibly fulfilling and rewarding it is. Traveling alone is great for self-reflection and growth, but it can sometimes lead to feelings of loneliness and sadness. Here are some tips on how to be happy while traveling alone.

Maintain positivity

The most important thing you can do to stay happy when traveling alone is to maintain a positive attitude. Be open-minded and flexible to changes. Things may not always go as planned, so don’t stress over changes in your itinerary. Look for the silver lining in every situation, focus on the present moment, and enjoy the experience.

Plan well

Proper planning is essential to ensuring you have a happy solo trip. Research your destination thoroughly and pack your luggage accordingly. Plan your itinerary around your interests and make sure you have enough money and a travel credit card. Knowing what you want to do and see can give you a sense of direction and purpose, making your trip more enjoyable. Packing what you need will help you feel more prepared. Be sure to get up to speed on the local culture and customs to ensure you don’t accidentally create misunderstandings between yourself and locals.

Make sure you plan for any safety-related matters, too. You never know what can happen when you’re by yourself. Plan for safety measures to prevent or mitigate any mishaps. Familiarize yourself with some basic emergency-related vocabulary in the local language so you can yell or call for help and be sure to have emergency contacts saved in your phone.

Stay connected

Just because you’re traveling alone doesn’t mean you have to be completely cut off from the world. Keep in touch with family and friends by calling or messaging them regularly. Share your adventures with them by posting photos and updates to your social media accounts. Connecting with loved ones can help prevent feeling isolated. It can also give you an outlet to talk about any challenges.

Meet new people

One of the great things about solo travel is meeting new people. Beat feelings of loneliness by interacting with locals. If you’ve been learning the local language, test your skills by conversing with the people you meet. Meet other solo travelers by joining a tour group or staying in a hostel.

Foster a sense of belonging by striking up new friendships and experiences by being open and friendly.

Make time for self-care

Always practice self-care when traveling solo. You’ll feel more energized and focused, which can help you enjoy your trip more. Eat well, get enough sleep, exercise regularly, and focus on enjoying the moment. Take time to relax and enjoy the little things, like reading a book or watching the sunset.

Welcome new experiences

Solo travel allows you to step outside your comfort zone and try new things. Welcome opportunities that will challenge you. Doing things like trying unique foods, participating in adventurous activities, or joining the locals in culturally significant activities are fun ways to make lifelong memories and possibly even lifelong friends.

Traveling alone can be a rewarding experience that brings immense happiness and personal growth. Following the tips I’ve listed with an open mind, you can have a happy and fulfilled solo travel adventure!

Did I miss anything? Let me know in the comments!

Thanks for reading!

Happy travels!

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Solo travel tourist using mobile application for check-in at the airport terminal with airplane taking off and city building outside window

5 Reasons To Travel Solo

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Do you automatically assume you’ll travel with a companion when you think about a trip? You’re not alone—according to a survey by Agoda, most respondents said they preferred to travel with someone. Though that may be the case, there are plenty of reasons why solo travel might be the better option for you, whether you’re looking to save money or simply want the freedom to do what you want when you want. Here are five things to think about if you’re on the fence about traveling solo.

1. You’re in Control

One of the best things about solo travel is that you call all the shots. You move at your own pace, change your plans on a whim and choose precisely what activities you want to do without compromising with anyone else. This is especially beneficial if you enjoy traveling spontaneously or like to go off the beaten path. When you’re by yourself, there’s no need to worry about whether your travel companion is up for an adventure.

2. It Can Be More Affordable

If you prioritize saving money, traveling solo can be cheaper than taking a trip with someone else, especially if your travel companion’s budget needs differ from yours. When booking airfare, hotels, and tours, you won’t have to pay any extra “single supplements” (additional fees charged for single occupancy). You can take advantage of discounts for seniors, students, and more. Eating alone is less expensive than dining as a twosome or group since most restaurants charge per person rather than per dish.

READ ALSO: 5 Ways To Make The Most Of Travel

3. You Can Meet New People Easily

A common concern among solo travelers is feeling isolated or lonely while on the road—but the truth is, it’s easy to meet new people when you’re traveling alone. Whether you start a conversation with somebody while waiting in line for a tour or share a table at a restaurant, chances are good that you’ll walk away from your trip with at least a few new friends (and maybe even some lifelong ones). If meeting new people isn’t really your thing, that’s perfectly OK, too. Remember, one of the best parts about solo travel is that YOU get to choose how social (or not) you want to be.

4. Solo Travel Forces You Out of Your Comfort Zone

Stepping out of your comfort zone can be scary. It can also be exhilarating and empowering. If you constantly reject new experiences because they make you feel anxious or uncomfortable, traveling alone can push you out of that rut and into something new and exciting. Of course, there’s no pressure to take risks if they don’t feel right for you; ultimately, it’s up to you to decide how far outside your comfort zone you’re willing to step while on your trip. Baby steps count, too!

5. It Helps You Relax and Unwind

It can be hard to unplug from technology in our fast-paced world and simply relax. It’s paramount to make time for yourself now and then to de-stress and recharge. When traveling solo, there will be plenty of opportunities for much-needed ‘me time.’ That may mean getting lost in a good book while lounging on the beach or finally getting around to those yoga poses during a morning meditation session.

Angela relaxing in a grassy area under palm trees

Some travelers (me) find being solely responsible for their trip helps them relax since they know no one else is relying on them. Others find that the ability to track their progress and itinerary helps strike a better work-life balance. Whatever reason works best for solo vacationers, one thing is sure: taking some time out for yourself is always beneficial.

A Final Word

When you travel solo, you’ll have the opportunity to explore your interests and discover who you are. You’ll meet new people and make lifelong friends. You will also experience things you might not have been able to if you were traveling with a group. Furthermore, no opinion or preference must be considered when traveling solo but your own. When deciding where to go next, what activities to do, what food to eat at restaurants – everything really – the decision is yours alone and based solely on what you want for your trip.

Cute traveling puppy wearing sunglasses and holding passport and suitcase

5 Ways To Make The Most Of Traveling

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My Bite-Sized Guide To Getting The Most Out Of Your Trip

Traveling is the best way to explore new places and cultures. It can be challenging, but you can make it a lot easier on yourself by ensuring you’re prepared for possible issues. To help you get on your way and make the most of traveling, here are a few tips!

1. Have A Plan

It’s a good idea to have a plan before you leave. Ensure that it is achievable and enjoyable. Decide where you want to go and what you want to see. Map out the places you want to visit and how you will get around.

Got plans?

2. Set a budget

Determine how much you can afford. Then, decide how much money you are willing to spend and what things are worth spending more money on. This will help you stay within your means and not overspend.

Smiling cartoon piggie bank with coin in slot
Make sure you have your coins right!

3. Pack light

You don’t want to be lugging around a heavy bag with you all day. That will take a toll on your feet and back! Pack light and prepare for different kinds of weather conditions. Bring only the essentials to save space and weight. This will make it easier to move around and enjoy your trip.

Man walking in Dar es Salaam wearing a black backpack.
My occasional travel buddy knows how to pack light.

4. Be prepared

Research the area you are visiting and familiarize yourself with the culture and customs. Make sure you’re prepared for any situation that may come up while traveling. Check the weather forecast before leaving and pack accordingly! Doing these things will help you avoid surprises and mishaps while on your trip.

South Korea infographic
Know important details about your destination.

5. Have fun

Traveling should be a fun experience where you come back home with new memories and stories! Embrace and enjoy every minute of it! Don’t just think about the destination but think about the journey, too.

Angela leaning against a tree in the forest
Just me chillin’ in the forest 😀

Happy travels!

Zihuatanejo beach with superimosed read hear in center

Zihua Love Affair

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I’m in love.

I’ve changed my flight date out of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo so many times. Hopefully, I can stick to the one I just booked. It’s just so hard to leave. My mind keeps telling me it’s time to leave, but my heart is telling me to stay and see what will blossom from this new love affair. However, I have so much that has to be done back home in the states. Besides, I wasn’t even supposed to be in Mexico for this long! I should have been somewhere in South America by now!

I couldn’t help it!

Uggh! LOVE. I fell hard. I’m still falling in love every day. Saying goodbye is going to be so hard. If I didn’t have to take care of things back home, I’d be tempted to stay a little longer. The current global health situation has made it even easier to change my flight with the recent no-fee flight changes and cancellation offers. Let me stop thinking about that. I’m going to try hard to stick to my decision, this time.

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What did I ever see in you?

Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo is such a lovely place. I love the beautiful beaches with the mountains in the background. The locals are so welcoming and friendly. The community is environmentally conscious, so it’s quite clean. It’s busy here, but not overly noisy. The weather is amazing. The food is always fresh, especially the seafood. It’s easy to find a spot, just about anywhere, to simply relax. I’m taking some online courses, so the ambiance is perfect for reading and studying.

This place has shown me how important it is to just slow down and drink in the moment. So, with much reluctance, I will be going home in a few days.

Oh, Ixtapa-Zihua, you’ve been so good to me. I will come back to you, soon….

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Friendless When Traveling

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I’m totally in love with solo traveling, but once in a while I like to sit and have a drink or lunch with another person. Sometimes, just striking up a conversation with a local can end up in a walk to the coffee shop across the street. Other times, it may seem impossible to find a lunch or coffee partner. During those seemingly impossible times, there’s a really simple fix! You know the saying, “There’s an app for that”? Well, it’s true!

The Couchsurfing app is an excellent tool for meeting up with other travelers looking to hangout with like minded individuals. You can hang out with as many people as you want if you’re all in close proximity and agree on a time and place. Couchsurfing has a ‘Hangout’ feature that uses location services to find other travelers in the same general area. It also has a feature for finding nearby events.

I’ve used this a few times and met some really awesome people. Solo travel doesn’t mean you have to be alone all the time! While you’re out there exploring new places, make new acquaintances and grow your network.

Happy travels!!

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