HELLO FELLOW ADVENTURERS, With MANY PROMOTIONS just around the corner, Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA) is providing their TOP SEVEN REASONS to book upcoming travel plans with an agent. Currently, CLIA reports that 70 % of travelers USE A TRAVEL AGENT to plan and book cruise vacations, citing reasons such as access to the best deals, promotions, advice and guarantees. 1. An Encyclopedia of Cruising: Travel agents are trained and certificated in general cruising and land vacations as well as the products and destinations, which benefits clients immensely. Travel agents are EXPERTS at the ready and can help plan the most customized vacation for each client, while also answering questions along the way. 2. The Real Deal: Cruise travel agents plan and execute multiple cruise and land vacations every week so they typically have a finger on the pulse of the industry and are aware of the best deals and discounts. Some may even have access to cruise line discounts that aren’t available to consumers. More importantly, there is NO COST (additionally) to the traveler to use a travel agent! 3. Saving More Than Just Money: In addition to finding the best rates, a travel agent can save clients another valuable resource: SAVE TIME. There is no need to spend hours researching the best deals or destinations. Travel agents are extremely knowledgeable, have the most up-to-date offers and information and do the legwork whether it’s finding the perfect cabin/room or planning excursions. 4. A Step Ahead: With a travel agent, travellers can often plan out their trip’s most miniscule details prior to boarding the ship or arriving at their All inclusive resort. Instead of waiting in line at the surf-simulator or having to rush to the spa to book an appointment, those who booked with a travel agent can enjoy a nearly HANDS-FREE experience where the booking and details have been taken care of in advance! 5. The Right Resource: Travel agents are the best resource when it comes to trouble shooting unforeseen travel glitches, which can save personal time and a vacation due to lost luggage, cancelled excursions, travel delays and more. For example, if a flight is missed or an excursion is cancelled, an agent has the knowledge and tools to efficiently handle refunds and re-booking logistics, leaving travellers more STRESS-FREE and off to enjoy their vacation in no time. 6. A Trip Tailored to YOU: Travel agents not only handle booking travel, but can help find the best cruise or resort for every type of traveler. A travel agent can create a perfect travel experience based on preferences, tastes and travel hopes. Keep in mind, a travel agent is always armed with the most CURRENT INFORMATION on how to find the right resort, right ship, right itinerary, right cabin/room and right location to guide travelers in the right direction. 7. Up-to-Date Updates: Travel agents are privy to a cruiseline and resort UPDATES in real time and know the fastest ways to get up-to-date information. This can range from anything from new spa offerings to changes in the ship’s itinerary. This ensures that travelers can take advantage of the latest onboard offerings, resort amenities or onshore excursions or plan for any last-minute concerns. Let's discuss your next DREAM VACATION soon. Email CATHERINE at: cmchattie@expediacruises.com or call (306) 717-9098 for your FREE QUOTE. I'd love to assist with checking off your bucket list and making all those dreams come true :) BON VOYAGE AND CARPE DIEM!!! Catherine McHattie (Your Cruise & Land Vacation Specialist) President's Circle Bronze ------------------------------------------------------------------------- Expedia Cruises, Saskatoon #106-3126 Clarence Ave. South Saskatoon, SK  S7T 0C9 Cell/Office: (306) 717-9098*/(306) 652-7447 Fax: (306) 382-9505 Email: cmchattie@expediacruises.com (Land and cruise inquiries welcome) Website: www.expediacruises.ca/catherinemchattie (Research and book as you wish on my site)