For once, procrastination is a good thing

In any other year, if a client called me now, in mid-June, talking about going to Europe this summer (meaning, within the next six weeks or so), I would laugh. But this is a crazy year and I’ve been working on LOTS of last-minute trips for clients headed to Paris, London, Mexico, and the Caribbean.

The economy, the swine flu scare, the recent glut of new hotels, resorts and cruise ships, and the airlines’ pricing strategies have combined to create a “perfect storm” for summer travel deals. And procrastinators are reaping the benefits!

This article on cnn.com sums it up nicely — and includes some excellent advice on how to best take advantage of this buyer’s market: 

Navigating the deals and best steals can be overwhelming, which is why turning to a travel agent for help can make a difference. A travel agent, for example, can sift through all the options, often secure different packages and can help prospective travelers figure out what destination is best for them.

“If you go to a professional, they can tell you what the traditional prices are … and give you some good old-fashioned advice,” said Ruthanne Terrero, a vice president in charge of content at The Travel Group.

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You provided excellent guidance for us. I appreciated that you really had us think about what was most important to us when we were selecting the right cruise – and not to totally focus on what other people had to say. THANK YOU for helping to make this a memorable trip for our family! It really was a trip of a lifetime!

Clare and Mark (family cruise to Alaska)

The level of service we experienced was out of this world (and we did NOT make it easy on Ann). We weren’t quite sure where we wanted to go, when we would be able to go, or what “vibe” we were going for. After asking us some key questions (what we liked, didn’t like, why, etc.) Ann helped us narrow down our trip details and planned the honeymoon of our dreams. She helped book some of our excursions, answered some emergency questions while abroad and was always available/willing to help. I think it’s safe to say we won’t be using anyone else for future travel planning – Ann is a rockstar!

Carli (Italy and Spain)