Q: Where is it New Years first?

A: Kiritimati (Christmas Island)

Happy New Year!!

Coffee on Kauai

While Kona gets most of the attention in the Hawaiian coffee market, Kauai has some great coffee to offer as well.

Located in a easy to reach section on Kauai, The Kauai Coffee Plantation should not be missed on your next visit. It takes about an hour or so and its free!

On my most recent trip I had the pleasure of visiting this plantation and sampling most of the available brews, and I was thoroughly impressed by their blends and the standard (non-flavored) roasts. The flavored varieties, are as satisfying and there are many to sample.

There are quite a few great souvenirs available in the gift shop, so be sure to check it out!

Laguna Beach California in December?

Just returned for California and enjoyed a beautiful December morning walking on the beach in Laguna. Believe it or not temperatures were in the 80's.

Laguna Beach is a great place to vacation year round!

Laguna Beach is southern California's premier, seaside destination midway between Los Angeles and San Diego. A year-round retreat for art lovers, nature enthusiasts and beach-goers, Laguna Beach features seven miles of soft sand and the sound of the surf.

Ron
www.thewaytogotravel.com
rtrimper@thewaytogotravel.com

Knott's Berry Farm--pie o my!

Here is a slice of Knott's Berry Farms famous boysenberry pie. I enjoyed a piece of this treat on a recent visit to Southern California. Although I am a California native this was my first piece of the Knott's Berry Farm classic. So don't miss out, grab yourself a slice the next time you are in Southern California.

In case you are wondering a boysenberry is a between a raspberry, a blackberry , and a loganberry. more to come on the famous Knott's Berrry Farm chicken dinners!

Ron
rtrimper@thewaytogotravel.com

20 Holiday Travel Hints

Here is are 20 things to do to make travel easier this holiday season.

1. Place houselights on timer to make it appear as if you're home.
2. Temporarily suspend mail and newspaper deliveries.
3. Ask trusted friend or neighbor to keep watch over your home. Provide your contact information to them.
4. Charge cell phone or mobile devices prior to traveling.
5. Pack strategically and as lightly as possible. Most airlines typically allow just one carry-on bag.
6. Remember TSA's 3-1-1 Rules: for all liquids and gels you pack in carry-on luggage.
7. Print boarding passes 24 hours prior to your flight.
8. Place government-issued ID that matches reservation exactly into wallet or purse you'll take with you.
9. Make copies of itineraries and confirmation numbers for airlines, hotels and rental cars. Bring with you.
10. Make list of important telephone numbers for airlines, hotel, rental cars and travel agent. Carry with you.
11. Wear comfortable clothes and easily removable shoes. This will speed up airport security.
12. Leave home with cushion of time to get you to airport at least two hours before domestic departures or three hours before international flights.
13. Be prepared for crowds. Even for seasoned travelers, remember that this may be the only time of the year when many are traveling, so they may be less prepared or informed than you.
14. Be prepared to pay for checked bags. Exceptions typically include those who have preferred status with the airline, those who are traveling in first class, and those carrying certain airlines' preferred credit cards, including Delta's American Express Card and Continental's MasterCard.
15. Know which items are prohibited by law.
16. Place all metal items (wallet, watch, jewelry, cell phone, etc.) in your carry-on or in a security binas you approach security.
17. Remove laptops, DVD players and other similar items from bag and place into security bin. The exception is the TSA-approved laptop bag.
18. Remove all coats, jackets and sweatshirts with front zippers and place into security bin.
19. Remove shoes and place on security conveyor belt.
20. Remember that patience is a virtue and that the holiday spirit begins with you.

Tsunami.....head for the hills!

When visiting Hawaii keep this in mind....

According to the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), 50 tsunamis have been reported in Hawaii since the early 1800’s. Of those seven caused major damage. Five of those were generated from areas outside the state.

The worst tsunami to strike Hawaii in modern history occurred in 1946 and was caused by an earthquake in the Aleutian Islands. The tsunami struck without warning and claimed the lives of 170 people, mainly near Laupahoehoe and Hilo. Wave heights near Hilo reached 30 feet while the maximum height was 55 feet at the northern tip of the island near the Pololu Valley.

Modern warning and detection systems should put your mind at ease.

What your sign ?

I have made it a hobby of mine to photograph unusual (at least to me) signs when I travel. Above I have a shot from Kauai, Hawaii. I think the message to stay off the rocks at Wailua Falls is clear. However, it appears that you might want to listen for gunshots as well. The falls were made famous when it was featured in the opening scene of the popular television show, Fantasy Island.

The second sign shot is from the marina area of Puerto Vallarta. Not sure if the are actually crocodiles in the waters of the marina but I would rather not hang around to find out.

Many more to come.

10 Myths About Travel Agents

10 Myths About Travel Agents

1. Myth: All Travel Agents and Agencies are the Same
Fact: Every travel agent is different and has a different area that they specialize in. So, depending on what type of trip you are looking to take one travel agent will suit you better than another. That’s why it is important when planning a trip to find a travel agent that specializes in where you want to go.

2. Myth: No One Uses Travel Agents Anymore
Fact: Travel agents still sell 51 percent of all airline tickets, 87 percent of all cruises, 81 percent of all tours and packages, 45 percent of all car rentals and about 47 percent of all hotels.*

3. Myth: Travel Agents are Trying to Cheat Me if They Don’t Quote Me the Cheapest Price
Fact: Travel agents know the ins and outs of different itineraries. While you might find one that is a little bit cheaper, that cheaper itinerary might involve a whole slew of headaches. For example, longer waits at the airport and odd travel times. A travel agent will be looking to get you the best value for you money spent which should include the most direct and time friendly itinerary they can find. – Unless you have told them you would prefer to have the cheaper options presented as well expect value to be a factor included in the trip they plan.

4. Myth: It is Expensive to Use a Travel Agent
Fact: The fee a travel agent charges really depends upon the agent. While some of the more luxury agencies have higher fees, the average fee is quite marginal. Some travel agents will even drop the fee or offer a discount once you have finalized your trip with them. Plus, you can always ask an agent upfront what their fees are and decide for yourself if it’s worth it. Also, it is important to remember that a lot of online booking sites, such as Orbitz and Expedia, charge a booking fee as well.

5. Myth: I Can Easily Book the Same Trip on My Own Without Using A Travel Agent.
Fact: Although travel agents have access to all of the same outlets you would use when looking to book travel, they also have access to exclusive pricing and package deals that are most times not available to the public. Your travel agent also has more leverage in helping out in situations such as hotels claiming to be booked, when in fact they may still have rooms available that are on hold for travel agents reservations. So when everyone else is telling you “No” your travel agent can help turn that to a “Yes.”

6. Myth: Travel Agents Don’t Have Information as Updated as the Internet
Fact: Travel agents obtain some of their information from the same sources as online booking sites such as Orbitz and Travelocity. They also receive daily emails and faxes with new specials from resorts and hotels that may not be published on the internet. Travel agents can also call a place directly to see if they can work out other kinds of special deals for you, something an online site can’t do.

7. Myth: Travel Agents Are a Waste of Time
Fact: Although you can find much of the same information that the travel agent provides for you on your own, you are going to spend a lot of valuable time doing so. A travel agent can actually save you from hours of painful research and price comparison shopping. They have up to date prices, hotel conditions, and interesting new activities. Their prior knowledge and experience gives them the upper hand in trip planning.

8. Myth: Travel Agents Have Lost Their Clout
Fact: Travel agents book hotels, cruises, and activities every day. The companies that provide these services know that and want their business and will work to keep that business coming back. So while a place might be telling you “Sorry we are booked,” for your one time trip, they are more likely to make an acceptation for the travel agent to insure that the agent sends them more business in the future.

9. Myth: Good Travel Agents are Hard to Find
Fact: While there are some below par travel agents out there, sources such as Tripology are great outlets to go to find reliable specialized travel agents that will match your needs.

10. Myth: Travel Agents Can Only Book My Flight and Hotel
Fact: Travel agents can arrange car service, personalized tours and activities, in addition to all the basic travel services they provide. They are also excellent sources of information concerning good restaurants, good sites to see, and tips on what to pack.

*Source: American Society of Travel Agents

Like Hawaiian Pineapple ?

Ever wondered how pineapples grow? In a tree ? On a bush?....nope on the ground. You can see them being grown just a short trip from Honolulu on Oahu. I have had the pleasure of visiting the Dole Pineapple Plantation three times and it is always a treat. Do not miss the frozen pineapple whip or other goodies served up here!! There are many Hawaiian and Dole products to buy in the large gift shop. A visit to the Dole Plantation is free but there are many attractions including a maze and train ride for an additional fee.

Kauai's Wild Chickens

What's with all the wild chickens on Kauai?

Around the island of Kauai one thing you will notice is that there are lots of wild chickens running around. They're everywhere and you will to see them on the sides of the road and in parking lots searching for food.

It is unclear where they all came from but it is rumored that they started making their appearance soon after devestating Hurricane Iniki in 1992. A theory is that they got their start on the island after several got loose from locals that were breeding them for cock-fighting.

They are not really a nuisance to visitors, but more of a source of wonder.

As I understand it from locals they are not good for eatin'

A local recipe reads like this:

Kauai Wild Chicken Recipe

1 Kauai wild chicken
1 large onion
1 bunch seasoning spices of your choosing
1 large rock
Salt and pepper

Put all ingredients into a large covered pot. Simmer over a low flame for several hours. Remove the rock. Discard the chicken. Eat the rock.

Aloha

Ron

Black Friday Sale!!

Don't forget to book your vacation this weekend with FunJet's Black Friday vacation specials. Contact us for a free quote on your next vacation

Details:

Funjet Vacations is offering the biggest deals of the year for the biggest shopping days of the year. You'll find unbeatable savings - up to 50% off - on vacation packages to our most popular destinations plus, special air-only discounts for travel now through April 30th, 2011!

But HURRY, these deals are so good that we can only offer them for a few days, so book now before they're gone! Sale ends at 11:59PM CST on Monday, November 29th, 2010.

Free quotes:
The Way To Go Travel
rtrimper@thewaytogotravel.com
888-750-0825

Happy Thanksgiving!!

Puerto Vallarta Sunset

Ahhhh....Just another day in paradise. Puerto Vallarta is the perfect place for you next vacation. It boasts many miles of spectacular beaches and great views of the nearby lush mountains. The opportunities for activities are endless. You can swim with dolphins, ride a pirate ship, zip-line, ride a horse and enjoy some amazing shopping. Puerto Vallarta is also known for its world class dining and each November host a culinary festival. Go and be pampered at a spa, the locals will treat you like royalty with their genuine Mexican hospitality. time and time again Puerto Vallarta has proven to me that it is really is a wonderful place. There are many all-inclusive resorts available for you to enjoy. Contact me to find the perfect one for you.

Until next time.....

adios,


www.thewaytogotravel.com
888-750-0825

Tips to beat airline baggage fees

OK --- Airlines we get it you lost millions and millions of dollars and need some revenue. I willingly buy a ticket, but do my best to avoid paying to check a bag. Here are some hints I use when packing a carry on bag. Use these tips to help you save some cash as well.

Smooth operator. Iron everything before placing it in the suitcase. If it goes in crisp and clean, odds are more in its favor of coming out the same. Button all buttons and zip all zippers.
* Fold it like you mean it. Practice folding like they do in clothing stores - they use that method for a reason. The better the fold, the fewer the creases. The interlocking method of folding clothes is ideal for suitcases. Overlap two pieces of clothing flat and then fold them into each other so that each piece cushions the other to aid in defying wrinkles.
* Pack backwards. Pack what you plan to wear or will need first, last. This will prevent rooting around the suitcase for a specific item while disrupting the rest.
* Pack it in. Packing loosely wastes precious space and causes clothes to wrinkle. Eliminate wasted space, such as the insides of shoes, which are perfect for socks or underwear. And when repacking, remember that balled-up, dirty laundry takes more space than carefully folded clothes, so repack your used clothing identically to your original packing method.
* Pack it out. Always carry travel documents, medication, jewelry, traveler's checks, keys and other valuables in your carry-on luggage. Items such as these should never be packed in checked luggage.
* Signed and delivered. Label each piece of luggage, both inside and out, with your name and telephone number, but not your home address. If an address is needed, then put your office address

Red Dog Saloon in Juneau

The Red Dog Saloon is a drinking establishment in Juneau Alaska. The Red Dog has been recognized for its longevity as the oldest man-made tourist attraction in Juneau. It is popular in the summer as thousands of cruisers head to the bar for a beer. A must see on any Alaskan adventure.

Hawaii's hidden Gem....Hilo

This charming historic city om The Big Island of Hawaii fronts the large curved Hilo Bay. The area is always lush and green due to an annual rainfall in access of 70 inches per year and is the wettest city in the USA. However, most rain showers occur in the evening and overnight . Numerous historical sites are located within the city limits. A free Walking-Tour pamphlet is available from numerous merchants in town.

Notably, on April 1, 1946, the city of Hilo was hit by a tsunami that killed 159 residents and destroyed 1,300 homes. On May 19, 1960, the area was again struck by a tsunami which killed 61 more. This clock, which stood in the city at the time, stopped at exactly 1:04 AM - the moment the wave hit the town. The area was made into a park and the clock was preserved and stands as a reminder and memorial to those lost lives.

Hilo is the best place to use a a gateway to the fabulous Volcanoes National Park just around an hour away. There are also many waterfalls located within a short drive of Hilo. Don't overlook this beautiful place!

Happy Halloween 2010

Disneyland's Haunted Mansion has been a guest favorite since its debut in 1969. Pacific Vacation Pro has been on this attraction hundreds of times and never tires of it. Located in Disneyland's New Orleans Square guests are treated to a "mild" spook by 999 "happy" haunts. While not part of the original attractions when Disneyland opened in 1955, the attraction's roots date back to even before Disneyland was built. What are you waiting for? Visit Disneyland today and American original!

Whales Return To Maui

Aloha Friday! Hawaii is famous for Whale Watching. Maui's first reported whale sighting of the season occurred Wednesday, October 20th. The humpback whale was just over 2 miles from the shore. Whales migrate to Maui ion The Fall and are often seen from Late October to early April.

RIU Resiorts Sale !!

1-Week Only! Book by Oct 28th and Save Big on Riu Hotels & Resorts!Sale Begins Friday, October 22nd!

For 1-week only take advantage of already reduced rates of up to 40% Off at RIU's collection of nearly 30 hotels and resorts in Mexico, Costa Rica and the Caribbean. Enjoy RIU's signature 24-hour all-inclusive service plus nightly entertainment, spectacular beaches and even free exchange privileges to use the amenities and facilities when staying at select Riu Resorts!Plus, book now and yous will also receive up to $300 credit towards your return trip to any Riu Resort, exclusively with Funjet Vacations! It's EASY!

How to save:

Save NOW: Save up to 40% on a wide selection of Riu Hotels & Resorts when you book by 10/28/10.

Save LATER: Receive up to $300* (Travel by: 12/31/10 to receive a $300 future travel credit) toward a return trip to any Riu Hotel & Resort.


Limited time offer. Contact me for a free quote!

Ron Trimper

The Way To Go Travel

816-392-5880

888-750-0825

The Way To Go Travel

Here is the new logo for The Way To Go Travel.
www.thewaytogotravel.com
888-750-0825

Oahu Tide Pools

Na Pali Coast Kauai Hawaii

This fifteen-mile stretch of rugged coastline on the northwest shore of Kauai literally means "the Cliffs." Much of Na Pali Coast is inaccessible due to its characteristic sheer cliffs that drop straight down, thousands of feet into the ocean. A must-do Kauai activity. Rain is common, as you can see from the pictures that I took in April 2010. On the bright side showers are often short lived and rainbows will often appear.

Become a fan of The Way To GO Travel on Facebook!

http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=501412211&ref=name#!/pages/Kansas-City-MO/The-Way-to-Go-Travel/215437544132?ref=ts

Waimea Canyon, Kauai

I consider this canyon to be one of the top attractions at Kauai and is therefore, very worth the trip up to the canyon. From the airport area, plan on a 1-1.5 hour driving time. There are about half a dozen viewpoints along the drive and offers good photographic opportunities on clear days. There is a lodge/cabin in the park about 2/3 way in, next to the museum/visitor center, where you can get food and drinks (no gas in the park however - last fill up at town of Waimea). Definitely worth the trip. Awesome!

Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska

A cruise to Alaska is incomplete without a visit to Glacier Bay National Park. The awesome Glacier Bay National Park is located in southeast Alaska, approximately west of Juneau. Glacier Bay National Park encompasses over 3 million acres, and is often referred to as 'The Crown Jewel" of the National Park system. The Park has snow-capped mountains that rise to over 14,000 feet, beaches with protected coves, deep fjords, tidewater glaciers, coastal and estuarine waters, and freshwater lakes. Additionally, there is plentiful wildlife viewing opportunities with a wide variety of birds, marine and land mammals. Many visitors experience Glacier Bay National Park while on large cruise ships that visit the park for the day. Definetly put this trip on your bucket list!

For more information contact me @
rtrimper@thewaytogotravel.com
OR
www.thewaytogotravel.com

Chinaman's Hat on Oahu, Hawaii

This is probably my favorite little island in the word. Although I have only seen it from a distance, I love it! The above picture was taken by me in March 2009. Mokolii Island is popularly known as Chinaman's hat because of its unique conical shape. The nickname Chinaman's Hat comes from its shape resembled the hats used by Asian immigrant agricultural workers. Mokolii Island is one of the top spots for taking pictures on windward coastline of Oahu. Just off the coast of Oahu , the island is visible from Kualoa Park.

Vancouver BC...Gastown Steam Clock

A must see to the city of Vancouver British Columbia is the Gastown Steam-clock The Vancouver steam clock was built in 1977 as a tourist attraction for the renovated Gastown district of Vancouver. Although the clock is now owned by the City of Vancouver, funding for the project was provided by contributions from local merchants, property owners, and private donors. Incorporating a steam engine and electric motors, the clock displays the time on four faces and announces the quarter hours with a whistle chime.

It is a spectacular city to visit. I recently began my cruise to Alaska here. Definitely place it on your travel bucket list.


Ron
www.thewaytogotravel.com
rtrimper@thewaytogotravel.com

Mendenhall Glacier @ Juneau

Mendenhall Glacier is about 12 miles long and located about 12 miles from downtown Juneau in the southeast area of Alaska. The views at Mendenhall Glacier are spectacular. The glacier is easily accessible from Juneau, about 15 minutes by bus. There are many viewing areas at the glacier as well as a visitors center. For the best views take the 1 mile each way hike to the waterfall it is definitely worth the trek.

Spectacular Alaska

Here is spectacular shot from my recent trip to beautiful Alaska, stay tuned for much much more!!

Cruise Hawaii on The Prise of America

Pride of America

The Pride of America for the best way to island hop Hawaii. She sets sails on a seven day voyage around the Islands each Saturday from Honolulu. Ask me about cruising America's paradise in style, with 14 restaurants and nine bars and lounges, excellent accommodations, spacious suites and lots of balconies - perfect for whale watching, witnessing Kilauea Volcano or taking in the dramatic view of the Napali Coast. The only U.S.-flagged cruise ship, Pride of America offers a one-of-a-kind itinerary that visits four of Hawaii's best islands, including overnights on Maui and Kauai. It is truly a unique and once in a lifetime trip! I have done it myself so ask me about it......look for more pictures on this blog, I took tons!

http://www.thewaytogotravel.com

The Spouting Horn on Kauai

Here are two pictures i took on my recent visit to Kauai in Hawaii. This is quite possibly my favorite of all of the Hawaiian Islands The Spouting Horn blowhole on the south shore shoots a plume of sea water into the air with each incoming wave. It is one of the most photographed spots on Kauai, it's also a great place to look for whales or dolphins cruising along the beach at Poipu . Ask me about this beautiful island! Don't forget your camera!

www.thewaytogotravel.com
rtrimper@thewaytogotravel.com
twitter: theway2gotravel

View From Diamond Head--Waikiki

Here is a shot taken from the top of Diamond Head on Oahu, Hawaii. The most famous volcanic crater in the world is Diamond Head, is located the end of Waikiki overlooking the Pacific Ocean. To get there is not too difficult although you should be in decent health. There are two sets of stairs, one with 99 steps and the other, 76 steps. There is also a 225-foot unlit tunnel. The hike is classified as easy to moderate in exertion but is certainly worth the breathtaking, unparalleled view of the entire west side of Oahu.

Additionally,

• Diamond Head Trail is 1 ¾ miles to the rim and takes about 1 ½ hours
• There is NO shade schedule an early hike
• Bring water
  
• Bathrooms available at the trailhead

101 Reasons to Use a Travel Agent First 10

101 Reasons to Use a Travel Agent/Expert/Specialist
First 10
1. Convenient One-Stop Shopping
Travel agents can handle every aspect of your trip from airline tickets to lodging, ground transportation, activities, tours and more.
2. Consumer Advocate
If you should have a problem during your trip, travel agents can act on your behalf to see that proper restitutions are made.
3. Expert Guidance
Travel agents are experts in helping travelers get where they need to go and in helping to create possibilities most people never would have dreamed were possible.
4. Save Time
Avoid the headaches and let the travel agents call around and do all the time consuming work of planning a complex itinerary.
5. Choice
Travel agents offer you an array of options and price quotes from a variety of travel suppliers, giving you the upper hand when making your final travel decisions.
6. Less Stress
Planning a trip can be stressful. There are so many options and details to worry about. Travel agents do the work, resulting in less stress for you.
7. Updated Information
Travel agents are constantly communicating with the travel community, thus giving you the most up to date info on airlines, hotels, car rental agencies, travel visas, and other travel services to consider as you plan your trip.
8. Customer Service
Travel agents offer that “personal touch” to your travel planning experience- Offering help and advice that a website cannot provide.
9. Travel Documentation
Travel agents can help you to prepare and organize any necessary documents that you may need in order to travel outside of the country. They can direct you to your local passport office, and they know where you need a visa, as well as any other documentation that you might need along the way.
10. Travel Expertise
Many travel agents are considered experts in the area you are traveling to and have probably already been to your chosen destination.

Wanna beat the heat? Alaska!!

Heading to Alaska in just 14 days. Should be a great vacation. I am going to cruise The Inside Passage and Glacier Bay National Park on Princess Cruise Lines Coral Princess. It is going to be a very welcome break from this Kansas City heat and humidity. Look for later posts and tons of pictures.

Ron
http://www.thewaytogotravel.com

Don't miss Joshua Tree National Park

I grew up in Southern California but never visited Joshua Tree National Park until this year. WOW! What a gem. Do not miss this spectacular park on your next trip to California. It not too far from Palm Springs just a short jump off of Interstate 10 near Indio.

Myths about Travel Agents

http://www.thewaytogotravel.com

10 Myths About Travel Agents

1. Myth: All Travel Agents and Agencies are the Same
Fact: Every travel agent is different and has a different area that they specialize in. So, depending on what type of trip you are looking to take one travel agent will suit you better than another. That’s why it is important when planning a trip to find a travel agent that specializes in where you want to go.

2. Myth: No One Uses Travel Agents Anymore
Fact: Travel agents still sell 51 percent of all airline tickets, 87 percent of all cruises, 81 percent of all tours and packages, 45 percent of all car rentals and about 47 percent of all hotels.*
3. Myth: Travel Agents are Trying to Cheat Me if They Don’t Quote Me the Cheapest Price
Fact: Travel agents know the ins and outs of different itineraries. While you might find one that is a little bit cheaper, that cheaper itinerary might involve a whole slew of headaches. For example, longer waits at the airport and odd travel times. A travel agent will be looking to get you the best value for you money spent which should include the most direct and time friendly itinerary they can find. – Unless you have told them you would prefer to have the cheaper options presented as well expect value to be a factor included in the trip they plan.

4. Myth: It is Expensive to Use a Travel Agent
Fact: The fee a travel agent charges really depends upon the agent. While some of the more luxury agencies have higher fees, the average fee is quite marginal. Some travel agents will even drop the fee or offer a discount once you have finalized your trip with them. Plus, you can always ask an agent upfront what their fees are and decide for yourself if it’s worth it. Also, it is important to remember that a lot of online booking sites, such as Orbitz and Expedia, charge a booking fee as well.

5. Myth: I Can Easily Book the Same Trip on My Own Without Using A Travel Agent.
Fact: Although travel agents have access to all of the same outlets you would use when looking to book travel, they also have access to exclusive pricing and package deals that are most times not available to the public. Your travel agent also has more leverage in helping out in situations such as hotels claiming to be booked, when in fact they may still have rooms available that are on hold for travel agents reservations. So when everyone else is telling you “No” your travel agent can help turn that to a “Yes.”

6. Myth: Travel Agents Don’t Have Information as Updated as the Internet
Fact: Travel agents obtain some of their information from the same sources as online booking sites such as Orbitz and Travelocity. They also receive daily emails and faxes with new specials from resorts and hotels that may not be published on the internet. Travel agents can also call a place directly to see if they can work out other kinds of special deals for you, something an online site can’t do.

7. Myth: Travel Agents Are a Waste of Time
Fact: Although you can find much of the same information that the travel agent provides for you on your own, you are going to spend a lot of valuable time doing so. A travel agent can actually save you from hours of painful research and price comparison shopping. They have up to date prices, hotel conditions, and interesting new activities. Their prior knowledge and experience gives them the upper hand in trip planning.

8. Myth: Travel Agents Have Lost Their Clout
Fact: Travel agents book hotels, cruises, and activities every day. The companies that provide these services know that and want their business and will work to keep that business coming back. So while a place might be telling you “Sorry we are booked,” for your one time trip, they are more likely to make an acceptation for the travel agent to insure that the agent sends them more business in the future.

9. Myth: Good Travel Agents are Hard to Find
Fact: While there are some below par travel agents out there, sources such as Tripology are great outlets to go to find reliable specialized travel agents that will match your needs.

10. Myth: Travel Agents Can Only Book My Flight and Hotel
Fact: Travel agents can arrange car service, personalized tours and activities, in addition to all the basic travel services they provide. They are also excellent sources of information concerning good restaurants, good sites to see, and tips on what to pack.

*Source: American Society of Travel Agents