Today it was announced that another online discount travel company has filed Chapter 11, bankruptcy protection. Was the extra $50.00 to the traveler in savings worth the risk of now losing their vacation? Probably not.
Many of these large online agencies have accrued debt they cannot possibly recover from since the drop in the ecomony in 2009. This company, for example owes about $250,000.00 to creditors it cannot cover. The travelers, if the company does not pay the suppliers, will not be protected and may find themselves out in the cold when arriving to their destination or the airport.
When looking to travel, why risk your investment on a faceless travel booking engine? The value of planning your vacation personally with a travel consultant is worth more than a small discount you may receive as one of 100's booking your reservation. Many times the price of the vacation ultimately paid online is the same or more than the same vacation planned through a travel consultant.
Also, consider the fact you are going only by what you have read online. Did the online description accurately describe the accommodations? Is this the right fit for your needs? Also, did the online booking engine mention you are on three flights to a destination where maybe a nonstop is available for a few dollars more?
Most importantly, will there be someone there to help if you have any issues pretravel or during your travel? The marginal is answer is yes, there will be someone, maybe to answer the phone. Will they do everything possible to assist you? Probably not as you are just one of many and customer satisfaction is not a priority, numbers are.
So next time you have the urge to book it online with a faceless booking engine, think again. If it is 2:00 AM , wait until the morning and call a certified professional travel consultant. Ask questions, get professional advise and make sure this is the right vacation, accommodation and travel decision for you. In the end, even it is does cost a few dollars more, it is worth the investment in your vacation.
When you are ready to plan you vacation, call me. Find out the difference in personal travel planning. You will be happy you did!
Adrienne Sasson, DS, CSS
Rubinsohn Travel - Virtuoso
The Pavilion
The Pavilion
261 Old York Road - Suite 205
Jenkintown, PA 19046
Office: 215-886-5200, ext. 65
Tollfree: 1-800-501-8519, ext. 65
Direct: 267-879-8250
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