By: Crystal Gooding

Growing up, travel was a big part of my family’s life. During the summer months my parents would put us in the car and start driving. We would take in the scenery and stop along the way to eat lunch or dinner in a different state. At each stop picking up a bit of knowledge as we went along.

I remember during the first week of school being able to share my experiences with the class as part of “Show and Tell.”

Isn’t that what life should be about, experiences?

I became a travel consultant because of my love of travel and the opportunity to help create memorable experiences for others.

My goal has always been to provide value to each vacation I plan. I believe in affordable luxury and so many of my clients have enjoyed the benefits of my labor.

Very seldom when you book a trip via the internet are you able to customize your trip or get added bonuses such as $100 credit towards dinner at the resort. Or $50 credit towards spa treatment. Or have something special planned for your birthday or anniversary.

There have been times that I have been online in an airport only to hear that someone has been bumped from a flight and cannot get one of the online travel engines to respond to help them get on another flight home. Believe me that is when you really need a travel agent.

Ponder this …..

• Have you ever tried to plan a vacation but it always felt like it was a chore?
• Have you ever thought you booked a certain itinerary and when you got to your destination, the hotel did not know what you were talking about?
• Or have other hotel guests ever told you about all the traveling they have done in Europe or the Caribbean at a third of the price they thought it would cost? When they share they their secret for maximizing their travel budget they say, “My travel agent. We just call her and she always finds the best deals.”
• Recent studies have shown that more people are returning to using the services of a travel agent instead of the internet. Here are a few reasons why.

“The Top 10 Reasons Why You Need a Travel Professional”

10. A travel agent has access to all travel providers and competing suppliers, providing fast, efficient information on the best offers.

9. A travel agent has destination knowledge that will enhance the vacation experience.
8. A travel agent does the research, saving you time – and time is money!
7. A travel agent provides complete itinerary planning, including transfers, entrance fees, even dinner reservations!

6. Convenient, one-stop shopping!
5. A travel agent listens! And works to create the vacation you want – not something cookie-cutter or “system” generated.
4. When problems do arise, your agent has a much better chance of getting resolution quickly.
3. A travel agent serves as your ADVOCATE with all travel providers.
2. You will receive personal attention that is there for you before, during and after your vacation.

And the #1 – most important reason to use a travel professional is: Without an Agent, you are on your own.

The next time you decide to plan a vacation, a weekend getaway, or a tour of another country, consider using a travel agent. Or better yet, call me. Let me help you make your next travel experience a memorable one.

Crystal Gooding began as a Wedding Planner and Banquet Manager in New York City. Although her background is in Economics and IT, she has always had a love for travel. She found when working with the Bride and Groom either as their Wedding Planner or Banquet Manager, her conversation always led to “Where have you decided to go for your honeymoon?” If not planned, Crystal would always do some investigation on her own and advise the couple on location and best value for their honeymoon.

With Crystal’s 19 years of experience in the Hospitality Industry, she has tackled simple and complicated requests. With each request she looks forward to taking the journey with her client as she customizes their vacation.

Crystal has earned certificates as a Caribbean Specialist, Honeymoon Specialist, and Spa Destination Specialist just to name a few. As a professional in the industry, she enjoys customizing vacations for her clients and bringing people together for group vacations. To plan your next vacation call Crystal at 866-567-4270 / 302-378-0894, or crystal@simpsontravel.net. .

Testimonial:

“Good Evening Ms. Crystal , , ,Again, I must compliment you and your exquisite service – my trip to San Jose Cabo San Lucas, Mexico was absolutely a dream come true. I would gladly be your spokesperson, voice-over for a commercial or ad about my trip to Cabo and Scottsdale for your Travel Agency.” ~ Edith W.

“Again I’d like to express my sincere thanks to you for researching and planning this trip to Brazil for us. We asked a lot of questions, and I’m a skeptical person by nature, but you always responded quickly and cheerfully. You are the most professional and enthusiastic travel agent I’ve ever worked with. Alicia and I will be recommending you to everyone we know. I can’t thank you enough for helping us every step of the way and making this a trip we’ll never forget.” ~Stu M and Alicia F.

“We would like to express our sincere appreciation for the services you provided in coordinating travel for our destination wedding in Los Cabos , Mexico. As I’m sure you remember, I was very anxious. You were able to ease my nerves and reassure me by maintaining honesty, efficiency and integrity as your professional and personal standards. Many of my guests commented on how helpful and kind you were when planning their travel, which helped me to feel confident in the choice we made to work with you. Beyond the professional service you provided you became a friend in the process. We will definitely continue to recommend you to others and look forward to planning our one-year anniversary trip with you!” ~ E.W.

“Crystal, we just got from our Alaskan land and sea trip. It was absolutely fabulous! As you konw, I wasn’t overly excited about going initially, but it was one of the most exciting and stress-free vacations I think that we have ever had. I’ve learned the secret … just call you. I am now a true believe that a good and thorough consultant is like a good beautician, you don’t change unless forced to do so and you know you can always trust them to make you look and feel good. The Mediterranean in next! Thanks Crystal.”   ~M. Wilson