7 Tips to choosing the right travel consultant for your next journey:
1. Is your travel consultant reputable?
Find out how long your travel advisor has been in the business. Often those who have been at it longer, have more experience and credibility.
Christine Boecker says:
I’ve been actively involved in the travel industry since the dark ages — you know, before the Internet — and I founded
TRΛVELBOECKER ΛDVENTURES in 1996. Read our Client Reviews
2. Do some background checks.
Look at your travel expert’s website and read the reviews.
Christine says:
My website is constantly updated, including relevant
travel news and information, and the
testimonials from our valued clients will let you know how we’ve been doing.
3. Seek out an expert, and — if possible — support small business.
There’s no substitute for the personal touch. Having one person look after your travel arrangements from start to finish is something online booking engines can’t match — especially if you’re looking for a specialist travel expert. A trusted voice on the phone is preferable to the often unintelligible customer service associate you’re connected to when dealing with an overseas supplier.
Christine:
During our initial Discovery Call we will talk about your travel wish list. I will guide you to make smart decisions that best meet your expectations, and enhance your trip with some creative suggestions. Be prepared for a South African accent though.
TRΛVELBOECKER ΛDVENTURES specializes in these destinations:
-
African Safaris
Inspirational | Delightful | Memorable
-
Galápagos Safaris
Up-close | Fascinating | Unmatched
-
Canadian Safaris
Vast | Remote | Impressive
-
Small Ship Cruises
Adventurous | Personal | Enchanting
5. Is your travel consultant insured?
As a traveller, you will need to be covered by adequate medical and travel insurance. But your travel agency will need to be covered for those ‘whoops’ moments too. Have they got adequate liability cover? Is your payment secure? In nearly all cases, you will be asked to pay a 30% deposit for your safari. This is often a non-refundable deposit. Your final payment will be required two months before you travel. Be confident your agent will not disappear into the ether before your departure date.
Christine confirms:
All travel agents located in BC are required to be licensed and insured.
TRΛVELBOECKER ΛDVENTURES is a division of PTM Ltd — BC registration #2806.
When you book a trip with
TRΛVELBOECKER ΛDVENTURES you can feel confident that your payments are secure.
6. Ask for your travel consultant’s Ts and Cs
It is advisable to get the terms and conditions from your travel agent regarding payment schedules. And make sure your advisor tells you what is included and what’s not! You do not want to confirm an expensive vacation only to find out at the last minute your agent charges additional fees, or that road transfers are not included!
Christine:
You will receive our terms & conditions at the time of booking before the first payment is made. Exploring a new destination can hold some pleasant surprises — no need to be ‘surprised’ by the booking process!
7. Are you getting the best value?
Cheapest is not best and travel consultants are not responsible at the end of the day for lack of service. Remember — you will always get what you’ve paid for.
The best travel experts will work only with reputable global partners, and will supply you with local emergency contacts. Make sure you are getting the service you want and expect.
Christine says:
We have long-standing partner relationships with global partners, each personally vetted and in keeping with our ethos of sustainability, value and service excellence, always having your comfort and safety front of mind.
“Good travel agents have an edge over almost any other seller of travel. They know what you want, they speak your language, and they’re there for you when you run into trouble.”
— Christopher Elliott, National Geographic Traveler's ombudsman
