It's Time to Plan for Vacation!

Did you know that the US Travel Association has designated January 28th as National Plan for Vacation Day? Here's why this is important:

• Americans get less vacation time than any industrialized nation
• Despite getting the least amount of paid time off, in 2018 we let 768 million vacation days go unused!
• Planning for vacation increases the likelihood that it will happen - but only 54% of American households actually plan an annual vacation
• Vacation improves every aspect of an individual's life - including their productivity at work!

So, what are you waiting for? And why plan with me? Let me tell you...

Last year my company partnered with Virtuoso - to quote them:

"Virtuoso is the leading global network of agencies specializing in luxury and experiential travel, with more than 20,000 advisors. We partner with over 1,800 of the world’s best companies such as hotels, cruise lines, tour operators, and more. Our advisors use their personal connections and firsthand expertise to craft bespoke trips for clients, including unique experiences, special values, complimentary perks, VIP treatment and rare access."

And how does this benefit you? Here are five ways:

First, A great travel advisor...takes it from ordinary to extraordinary. A Virtuoso travel advisor can secure special benefits that you can’t get on your own, such as complimentary breakfast, spa credits, and upgrades at hotels. But they also see the nuances in every trip. From big-picture aspects (where to go – and when) to the details that matter (booking the hotel rooms with the best views, where to get the most authentic pizza on the Amalfi Coast), your travel advisor knows how to plan a memorable trip.

Second, a great travel advisor knows the world. Just as you might use a financial planner, an interior designer, or personal shopper, it makes sense to entrust your most valuable asset – your time – to an experienced travel advisor. The best advisors spend a lot of time on the road themselves – scouting out hotels, deepening relationships with tour guides, and finding the best restaurants and things to do. 

Third, a great travel advisor knows your travel style. A Virtuoso travel advisor understands what’s most important to you and your traveling companions. You may want to take a cooking class or a private tour, or you may not want to leave the resort pool! Perhaps you want to use travel to educate your kids, plan an unforgettable anniversary trip, or celebrate a milestone birthday with friends and family. Your Virtuoso travel advisor will have plenty of suggestions on what might work best for you.

Fourth, a great travel advisor expands your horizons. A great travel advisor will help you think creatively about where to go and what to do. Italy, France, and Hawaii will always be popular. But your advisor also knows the best ways, say, to see Chile, Portugal, New Zealand, and many other hot destinations – plus new ways to experience the places you’ve already visited. Together, you can plan your next dream trip or weekend getaway. 

And Finally, a great travel advisor can handle anything. Have you ever been on a trip where everything went exactly as planned? Right – this almost never happens. Issues are bound to pop up, and your Virtuoso travel advisor is your personal help line and “fixer” who knows how to quickly turn things around for the better. When they follow up after your trip, you’ll surely have an answer to this question: “Where do you want to go next?”

Cheers,

Joan