So, your wedding plans are in the works and now it’s time to book the honeymoon. Do you go online in hopes of saving a few dollars, or hand the task over to a skilled travel agent? Maybe it would be cheaper in the long run to hire someone who’s in the know. A good agent could personalize your itinerary and possibly meet every one of your romantic whims. Having them take on this task would certainly alleviate the stress level and reduce your check list. And what other benefits might there be, by going this route?

To get the full scoop, I compiled a few questions sought out a couple of pros. Charlie and Susan Pitchford pitchford@telus.net of TPI Travel BC and The Informed Traveller http://www.informedtraveller.com/ have been specializing in cruise products and small group land adventures for the past decade. And over this period they’ve also appeased countless honeymooning couples.
 
1. How do newlyweds get a better bang for their honeymooning buck by booking with a travel agent verses going online?
 
“Booking online travel is good for simple point to point air, inexpensive hotels and car rentals,” Charlie explains. “However, it’s not the best for more unique and specialty products/services, such as honeymoons.”

Like the Pitchfords, many agents have access to ‘insider’ information relating to properties, specific cruises or romantic packages. You’d likely be disappointed if your honeymoon haven turned out to be a family focused resort –or contrarily, one designed for the more mature traveler. How memorable would it be if your cruise was geared up for the party animal crowd and not couples, like yourselves, who were hoping for some quiet time?

As well as having continuous ties to travel suppliers, most agents have access to an efficient process for booking reservations.  By using strategic ways of combining air travel with lodging, your dreamscape getaway may end up costing you less in the long run.

There are definitely lots of internet ads and online bargains out there. But if it sounds too good to be true, it often is. Although some may be legit, many are misleading. Hotel rooms that are advertised as having ocean views are not always fronting the sandy shoreline. All-inclusive properties don’t always include everything on the menu. And when a seven-day cruise package is being promoted, this may equate to only six nights away –not an entire week. Read the fine print, do your homework –better yet consult with an agent. You don’t want to be the victim of a scammer –and Honeymooners, with their hard earned dollars often make perfect targets. 
 
2. What are some other benefits of going through an agent?

The Pitchfords strongly feel that a good agent will take the time to get to know you and your travel preferences, and will then customize a honeymoon package to fit your budget.

Let’s face it, your ‘things to do’ list is jam packed with wedding essentials. Wouldn’t it be a relief to delegate this major task to a professional? Unlike the internet, a good agent has your best interest at heart and will go the extra mile to meet your honeymooning needs. They’ll be able to provide one stop shopping, including everything from the accommodation and ground transportation to car rental and travel insurance.

You and your new spouse may also have specific interests that you’d like nearby. Whether it’s scuba diving, rock climbing or hiking trails, a good agent will be able to find various options at their fingertips. Maybe you want to slip something unique into that special itinerary –like riding horseback along a stretch of sand or sightseeing from a hot air balloon. As Charlie and Susan have pointed out, a travel professional will be able to customize your ‘once in a lifetime’ trip, without putting you into unwanted debt.

3. Is there a way to check out the credentials of a travel agent? What should you ask about or look for?

“Many travel agents who have been in the industry for a long period of time may have certain types of travel certifications,” Susan responds. “This, however, should not be the overriding decision in finding your travel agent to book your honeymoon or destination wedding. More importantly, word of mouth and personal references would be your better way of choosing a good travel agent to work with.”

You’d likely follow the same principal as you would when seeking out a dentist or physician. Listen to your well traveled friends and family members who have had good experiences, then set up an appointment to meet with the chosen agent. You want to make sure your personalities jive and he/she has the knowledge and experience to plan your special trip. During your visit, consider everything, from the office set-up, to the agent's knowledge and willingness to meet your every need. Come prepared with a list of questions, including your desires. What destinations do you have in mind? What activities do you want included? Which properties offer honeymoon packages? And what will work with your budget?  Most agents want to establish a long term relationship with you. They want your repeat business, long after your honeymoon is over, and will make every attempt to make this trip a special one.

4. Is it better to go with a bigger agency?

Travel agencies range from small mom and pop type businesses to large conglomerate chains.  Although, one may think that the infrastructure and support of the bigger is better, Charlie feels this is not always the case. “You'll likely get more personal, customized service in a smaller agency,” he responds. “The larger ones are better at handling volume.”

As well as creating a friendlier atmosphere the little guy usually develops a closer connection with his/her clients. Regardless of the size, they all have the same networking opportunities. “There’s access to the same suppliers of travel products,” Charlie affirms. “For the most part, it’s a fairly level playing field when it comes to travel agents and travel product suppliers.”

5. How far ahead should couples book their honeymoon?

“The time of booking, definitely depends on where and what time of year the honeymoon is planned for,” Charlie answers. “The rule of thumb is –the further out you book, the better pricing and availability will be.” 

“Air and land accommodation is at a set price,” he continues. “However, with a cruise product, you have much more flexibility since your deposits are refundable. Should the price of your cruise go down, your pricing will be adjusted accordingly.”
 
There’s no doubt about it, planning a honeymoon or destination wedding can be confusing and time consuming. With so many variables and options in this growing market, a couple can get overloaded when taking on this daunting task. As evident after this interview, a good travel agent will certainly help alleviate this unwanted stress. Whether it’s a Mediterranean cruise, a Costa Rica jungle experience or a romantic South Pacific island resort, agents like Charlie and Susan Pitchford can meet your every need.  This is a special trip. It’s the beginning of your life together. And with the right planning it will hopefully be one that provides lasting memories.
 
Susan & Charlie Pitchford
TPI Travel, B.C. Reg# 28159
Suite 400-601 W. Broadway
Vancouver, B.C. V5Z 4C2
604-675-6975
http://www.informedtraveller.com/
pitchford@telus.net