Travel Agent Heroes

Under normal circumstances, travel is the ultimate reward, the stress reliever, allowing us to detach from the day-to-day and settle into a new, inviting and relaxing setting. This year has given us a myriad of reasons to want (and need) to get away. And it’s not only adults that benefit from the escape. Families traveling together have the opportunity to reconnect and create precious memories that last a lifetime. 

A friend recently took a local trip with his family. He smiled with pride as he shared his daughter Tilly’s “icsitement” of her first experience on a paddle board at the lake.

That same family is planning a family vacation to Orlando. They’ve been there many times; it’s become a favorite destination. But no matter how many times they go, two things never change. The level of excitement leading up to the trip never fades. And they always book thru their trusted travel agent to make sure they enjoy all of the latest adventures in this very dynamic destination.

And in 2020, the rules have changed even more.

• The ability to work and learn remotely has opened up new opportunities to be productive from anywhere. Parents can stay connected from their hotel room, and virtual learning means students are less confined. Work and play can be accomplished in the same day, from somewhere new.
• If driving has become a preferred mode of transportation these days, it’s easy to customize your clients’ vacation. They can spend a few days in Orlando visiting their favorite theme parks, then head to one of Florida’s wonderful beaches for a perfect ending to an amazing week. The closest beaches are just an hour away!
• Visiting one of Orlando’s many magnificent theme park allows for plenty of safe, open-air adventures! Al fresco dining can be enjoyed at many venues. Your clients’ favorite theme park or attractions’ website provides the latest updates and safety measures being taken to ensure a worry-free visit.
• They’ll notice that the lines are shorter to get on their favorite rides these days. It’s a great time to visit the parks – many are controlling capacity. Note, as more and more travelers engage, midweek is a great option. Some parks are hitting capacity on the weekends.

Yes, many things have changed. Some of the entertainment we once enjoyed in abundance is now much more limited; sports, festivals, concerts, local events…Fun is more difficult to find.

Yet, some very important things have stayed the same. Travel will always be an important and therapeutic part of our lives. And families will always appreciate and cherish the travel memories their trusted travel agents helped them create. 

Here’s proof. With pride and a big, huge smile, Della and Tilly shared their favorite memory of a recent trip to Universal Studios Orlando with their family.

This is Tilly’s rendition of her great day at Volcano Bay! Notice what a brave swimmer she is, navigating the waters so close to the volcano as the lifeguard looks on. Even the sun looks like she’s having a great time.

Della, being an avid Harry Potter fan, had a very different favorite experience. Seemingly undeterred by the fierce and (quite large) Ukrainian Ironbelly dragon overhead, she forges ahead excitedly, magic wand in hand! By the way, yes, the wand chose HER – not the other way around – at Ollivanders Wand Shop in Diagon Alley at Universal Orlando. After all, wands are an essential Wizarding Tool.

Travel agents have always been the guiding light for their clients. Your clients look to you for knowledge, expertise and recommendations for the ultimate customized experience. This could be the most important time for your voice to be heard. Please, share your travel experiences and advice. Reassure your clients that it’s ok to travel, if they’ve decided they’re ready. Encourage them to take that first step and book their travel experience. For some, it may be close to home, for some it may be a bigger, bolder adventure. Whatever their comfort level, it’s that first step that leads them toward the reward and helps to fuel this great travel industry that we all know and love.

Let’s face it, what could be better than realigning our priorities to spend more time with our beautiful families? I know...Helping others to do the same! Thank you, travel agent HEROES!