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Why Should You Work with an Accessible Travel Agent?
- jennifer96117
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
How I can help you!
It seems that I keep trying to get into “dying” professions. At the dawn of the internet, multiple articles claimed that librarians would soon be obsolete and physical books would fall to the wayside. Why would you need a librarian to help you research when you have Google? Why would you need to visit the library when you could instantly download books instead?
But librarians didn’t die out. Instead, our duties changed. Instead of focusing on research, we focused on information literacy and community aid. We embraced the e-book craze with partnerships with companies like Libby or Hoopla. Librarianship looks a lot different now than it did twenty years ago, or even ten.
When I started my travel agency, I heard the same sentiments. Why would you need a travel agent when you could book things yourself online? Why not just use AI? Why do travel agents still exist at all?
Like librarians, travel agents also had to change. But that doesn’t mean we are obsolete! In fact, with so much misinformation buzzing around, we are needed more than ever.
Here are four reasons why a travel agent may benefit you, especially if you are a part of the disabled community or have specific travel needs.
Working with a Travel Agent Saves Time
Researching travel options when you are disabled can feel like falling into an endless rabbit hole. It’s not just about finding the best destinations, but also the most accessible ones. What does this hotel mean by accessible? Does it have roll-in showers? Is there room for lifts under the bed? Does the restaurant nearby have outdoor seating? Will they allow carry-out? Are there stairs you have to climb to get there?
There are multiple questions for different needs, and even if the answers are out there, they are often difficult or tedious to find.
That's where a travel agent comes in. By working with a travel agent, you save hours of scrolling and clicking, as they do all the heavy lifting. I know which hotels have accessible rooms, which airlines offer the best assistance, and even which restaurants can accommodate specific needs. And if I don’t know a specific answer, I have numerous contacts within the industry, only accessible to individuals who work in the field. I know who to contact and how. Don’t want to spend hours on hold? I’ll do that for you! Imagine all that time saved, time you can spend packing or just getting excited about your trip!
Get Personalized Service and Advice
One of the best parts of working with a travel agent is the personalized service. You’re not just a booking reference number; you’re a person with unique needs and preferences. I take the time to understand what’s important to you. As someone with a chronic illness, with multiple mobility issues, and who still takes COVID precautions, I understand how frustrating it is to work with someone who doesn’t “get it”. I can take that frustration away.
Not only am I able to listen to your needs, but I am also here to give you travel advice specific to you. Are you COVID-cautious and wondering how to make your masking experience more comfortable while on a plane? Do you need help figuring out which mobility equipment to rent? No need to wade through multiple posts on Reddit for conflicting information. Utilizing my personal experience and multiple certifications, I can help.
I love tailoring trips that not only meet but exceed expectations, leaving you with memories that last a lifetime. Think of me as your own personal advocate.
Stay Up-to-Date on Deadlines and Deals
Have you ever received a deposit due date in size five font halfway down the twentieth page of a contract, and then forgot about it or couldn’t find it later? Ever missed a great travel deal or a crucial deadline? With a travel agent, you won’t have to worry about that. We’re on top of all the latest deals, deadlines, and requirements, so you don’t have to be. Sending you reminders about crucial deadlines and information is a part of my service. Need to know the visa requirements for a particular country? I’ll make sure you’re informed and prepared. It’s all part of ensuring your trip goes smoothly, leaving you free to enjoy the journey.
I also have insights on deals and exclusive perks not available to the public, saving you time and money! I know which offers are steals and which ones are bogus (yes, cruise lines absolutely do markup their prices during a sale to look like you are “saving”). I can make sure you are informed of the best deals available.
You’re Paying For One Anyway
Suppliers like cruise lines or hotels factor commission into the price. Even if you don’t use a travel agent, you will still be paying commission! However, instead of going to a travel agent’s small business, that money will go back into the pockets of the large corporations you are purchasing from, instead, leaving you without the service that you paid for.
Traveling with a disability or specific accessibility need should be as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. By working with a travel agent, you’re not just making a booking; you’re creating an experience tailored just for you. From saving time and providing personalized advice to keeping you updated on the latest travel news, I’m here to make your travel dreams a reality. Specifically, I can:
Listen and understand your needs
Research itineraries and create personalized proposals based on those needs
Provide travel advice, particularly for those who are COVID-cautious, have mobility issues, have a chronic illness, or have allergies
Stay up to date on deadlines and requirements, reminding you via personalized emails and messages
Provide exclusive perks like free breakfast or cruise credit on some vacations
Organize group trips
Interested in working with me? Fill out the booking form here.
If you still take COVID precautions, I have four upcoming group trips! Hurry! The deadline for the Punta Cana land trip is September 15! We need more people to sign up! More info here:
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