A motto I heard recently that I really liked was 'The Internet is for looking and a specialist is for booking'. Since we started this business we have more stories than we can count on clients having Internet search overload and not ending up with what they thought they were getting. Below are three fun true stories that have happened to us over the past year. All three are different and are cautionary tales about traversing the Internet travel world.
The 'Missing' Day
We recently had some great deals on some all inclusive resorts for a client of ours. They were looking for 5 days at a fabulous resort in Punta Cana. We had quoted a great price that included airfare with the flight times they requested and an oceanview room with some extra amenities. We received a call back stating he had found a price almost $900 cheaper on line. I was stunned to say the least, so I asked for some details and started some digging. Well I went myself to a 'famous' online site. Most would assume when you enter a departure date of 2/7 and return on 2/12 that would get you five nights at your destination. Nope the results he was comparing to were a red eye 20 hour flight and the system had them staying at the resort for only 4 nights .... that was the difference in flight. Our client had not even realized the 'system' had shaved a day off of the trip! When playing with different flights the online site ended up being more for the exact itinerary.
'We appreciate your business ... thank you for holding'
As part of our business model in addition to focusing on our local market we share calls that come through a shared 800 number. A nice gentleman had called and asked if we could help him with some shore excursions and flight information. I gathered his information but could not locate him on our system. I finally asked if he had booked through us. His reply 'No I booked through <famous online site> but can not get a hold of anyone and have been on hold for over 30 mins.' Unfortunately we can not see any bookings that we do not create so we could not see the exact itinerary he booked. After going back and forth with him explaining that as much as I would like to help that I could not. He thanked me and said he would never book a cruise online again. When you utilize a good specialist you always deal directly with them and they are readily available by phone and email - and they often can get you a better value!
How romantic .... bunk beds!
After speaking with a client about a romantic getaway and quoting a great price for her she called back to say she saw a lower advertised price on the internet. Well the quote she received was lower ... for a stateroom with bunk beds only! Many times online you see a very brief explanation of staterooms with category codes not noticing they are bunk beds, obstructed view, 'night owl' rooms, or just a guaranty. Good thing she called us back or there would not have been much romance on that trip!
With so many travel options out there, it can be overwhelming. We work hard to listen to what is important to you for your next dream vacation. We guide you to the best options that match your needs at the best value.
Happy Cruising!
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