Our speaker this week was Robin Isquith, the owner of Stones Throw Travel. We learned that education and certification of travel agents is something that we should look for in selecting the person to assist us in booking our vacations. We also learned that it is no more expensive to book through an experienced travel agent than it is to boost things for yourself online but the risk to the consumer is a lot less. Robin explained the importance of buying travel insurance to cover medical needs abroad because US insurance is not accepted and that you could have to pay up front out of pocket and your passport could even be taken. Travel insurance also covers lost and delayed luggage and unforeseen trip cancellation costs. She could not stress the importance of travel insurance strongly enough.

We learned that if you book through a travel agent then it is your agent who spends the hours on hold to rearrange things and take care of any issues that arise instead of you. We also learned that through partnerships and alliances she has access to upgrades and incentives not available online.

 

The CDC has opened up US waters to cruise lines but they will have to have precautions in place. Dining will be modified as will entertainment to allow for social distancing. If any passenger test positive for Coronavirus during the sailing the entire ship will be put on quarantine.

Some 70% of American are planning to travel again in 2021. The countries that currently have no restrictions are Mexico (and she is booking a lot of trips there.) Brazil, Dominican Republic and Turkey also have no restrictions.

More than just airfare and hotels, Robin finds joy in learning about her clients so that she can craft an experience. She’ll want to know if you're a foodie because not all resort food is the same quality, or perhaps stepping out of your room onto a breezeway to the sea is what you desire. Maybe you want a private chef or your family would like gladiator lessons while in Rome. If you're looking for vacation experiences at the next level then a Travel Advisor with the appropriate qualifications and education is the way to go.