When I travel, my normal is to research, book and control my travel, all myself. However, the only time that we allowed someone else to book something for us was our first and only cruise thus far. We went to our local AAA travel office and their travel-planner, Joyce, did our booking. I had done some research on a couple cruises and decided on a specific Carnival ship for certain dates. What I discovered was that Joyce had access to cabins that I did not see on the Carnival booking site. Joyce was able to get us two connecting cabins for our family. Did Joyce give us suggestions? No. Did she get us any 'deals'? No. She did print out all our boarding passes and luggage tags, and even laminated our ship luggage tags. That was a nice touch. Did I feel she was "well traveled" in regards to cruising. She apparently did some cruising, but did not 'hold a candle' to the experience I see in EECC. I keep telling my wife that I want to take her on a "second honeymoon" cruise when I am retired, hopefully soon. Before watching Jason and Elisa, my cruise 'world' was limited to Carnival. Sometimes I feel like I am "Cruising by proxy" watching your cruise videos. I like to watch your videos for ideas. I like to research the cruise line website and do 'mock bookings' to get an idea of prices and options. But, when we are ready to pull the trigger to book, we will most likely come to EECC. I will definitely be looking to your experience for narrowing it down to Line, Ship, Dates, Excursions, Etc. We really appreciate all your videos.
We have done it direct with cruise line and when we can we try to use Costco travel, when we have done it when they offer complementary pre-paid gratuities, several other perks and a Costco shop card upon return. The Panama Canal cruise we have booked the gratuities and the shop card alone total around $1200. and there is percentage for executive membership and it CITI card is used there is another percentage. I know Costco is for everyone but the cruises we booked through them has been great, when we had a problem while on an Alaska cruise on HAL they were the point of contact and settled our issue right away. Great video as usual.
OK I finally found my travel agency and my travel agent Amy is a rockstar. I have been looking for a travel agent here in Florida because I know it’s better to use a travel agent. Nobody in Florida wants to work. I’ve been watching your videos for quite some time now and find them extremely helpful. Then I realized you are a travel agency. I filled out your paperwork and within minutes received an email from Amy and we pretty much had my next trip booked within three hours. I’m still waiting on a callback from a local agent in Florida from a month and a half ago. Amy is a rockstar and I have forwarded her information to everyone that I know thank you you guys are killing it.
Thank you. This helped. Did 1st Travel agent with AAA for Rocky Mountaineer to Canada. Great trip, the Brewster Land/ Bus tour for 9 days was the best. Travel Agent...well nothing I could not have done. BUT you explained well & for an extended cruise to Alaska in 2025 we may do a TA, & it may be you😊
I am soooooo very thankful after watching your You Tube channel that I reached out and contacted you and booked with you! Everyone let me say this over and over again.....her customer service is OFF THE CHARTS....if you want or need a dependable TA then Alisa is your go to gal. Moving forward she has earned ALL my cruise business. Wish I could have transferred my upcoming January 2024 cruise to EECC as well, live and learn price definitely is not the best way to book.
After watching EECC Travels for a couple years I finally decided to go for it and go on my first cruise! My second vacation ever. So I let y'all take the scary away and book my cruise, flight and the hotel for the day before our ship leaves. Amy was wonderful! No matter how many questions I had Amy was there for me and very sweet! And even though my cruise is 6 months away Amy said she would be there for me if I needed anything else. EECC Travels is the best! Thank you so much!!!❤❤❤
I used to do my own bookings with Princess. Then I got an email from one of their PVP's and we hit it off quickly. She has done that last 3 bookings for us with no issues. She is handling our first back-to-back in November as we have never done that before. Answered my questions easily which I appreciated. I am a retired scheduler / office manager, so you know how hard it is just to let someone else handle it :) JennyB was our TA for the Vloggers Extravaganza and because of her agency we got a few perks that I would not have gotten otherwise. What a sweetheart. Good information you gave especially for the new cruisers. Thanks for sharing!!
@@mrlong4269 there is a lot more than just price drops. I don’t check on a daily basis, and don’t promise that I do, but do check periodically and definitely before final payment (which is when many happen. I always tell my clients that two sets of eyes are better than one on price drops. But a TA can add a lot of value in other ways.
I’ve done it both ways. A travel agent can do all the not fun stuff like if you need to change something they will do the waiting on the phone instead of you being on hold possibly hours. Never thought I lost any control, still choose what I want, it’s still your vacation a TA just helps when you need it.
Just took a cruise (Alaska) for the first time in 20 years. did it all myself , direct with cruise line and Expedia for the rest. Yes the cruise line can do flights, insurance, and hotels, but not cheapest, for sure. I try and go cheap on things, hotels, flights and it was not the hardest, but if I ever run into problems, I am on my own. everything worked out pretty well, but that will not always be the case If it's in America, I am very comfortable with it, but when its overseas, thats where I have apprehensions. But now that I jut retired, will be trying to see the country and world wit at least 1 cruise a year, and I plan on a cruise then a land based part ( IE, transatlantic cruise, then tour Rome , or Spain, or England). I am sorta ( friends will laugh at 'sorta') a control freak and so very much on the fence about a TA. I have talked to a TA, who I know, and I believe she could work for certain things, but definitely not cruising. I do a ton of research, and know what I want, but still uncertain if I leave money on the table.
I've used a TA twice, once for our honeymoon in Hawaii and once with Princess, as it appeared that you had to. For the Hawaii trip she was invaluable! For the PCL cruise, my neighbor, who is a TA managed to get our first and only stateroom upgrade! 🎉
I call the cruise line and book directly with them and tell them exactly what I want. You don’t have to go through a travel agent. I have been on numerous cruise and I never booked through a travel agent.
Great video! We did a Cancun trip using Sara! Great experience and will use you all again. It’s just so much easier when ya have questions., they may get annoyed at ya but that’s what they are for. Those random questions,, “never felt like we annoyed anyone” but they help ya out. Shout out to Sara! Love ya guys. 🎉
using a travel agent seems to be a no brainer....however, a number of years ago we went down the parallel paths of getting a quote from an agent for airline, pre/post cruise hotel, rental car and the cruise itself (including drink package)...we found for all 4 areas it was cheaper for us to do it ourselves! we have done the same spot checks since then and in all cases we found it cheaper or the same price to do our own booking...the only exception was 5 years ago when we took a family cruise and booked 8 balcony rooms and each room got 2 bottles of free wine, other than that, it was better to do it ourselves
This was a great video! I’m actually taking a TA course right now and will be taking the TAP exam at the end of it. I have discovered that I LOVE cruising, which has made me want to learn as much as I can about it. I’m about to embark on my third at the end of this month, which I know is a small amount but I’m hoping it’s the next of many. Thanks so much for the video. Love your channel!
My travel agent has been with Vacations to Go for 19 years. It is sooooo much cheaper to book with VTG, most of the time, than to book via the cruise line, in my experience. I had so many cruises cancelled during the pandemic, including a whopper cruise that included China in Feb. 2020, and my travel agent took care of everything. Plus, I’ve worked with him so often that he knows exactly what I want, and a quick e-mail or phone call is all it takes to schedule a cruise or make changes. With the cruise line, I have to wait on hold for hours, and sometimes they know what they’re doing and sometimes they don’t.
That’s who I have used for my past couple of cruises, and I agree, they have great pricing! I have actually been singing their praises to many of my friends who like cruising so they will hopefully check them out.
I have a friend at NCL in the Casino at Sea Dept. I look for the cruise on the website, then find the one I want, and call her. I have a friend who is a local travel agent that helped me book my trip to Europe (not a cruise). My friend at NCL told me that I can add my travel agent as a secondary agent! I can have the best of both worlds! Since I don't care for other cruise lines, having a person in NCL and a local travel agent works for me and helps out both of my friends!
Hi Alisa - GREAT video - thank you so much for posting this! I really enjoy your content - you and Jason are awesome! I usually prefer to book on my own, but I was wondering if you could answer a few questions. 1. What host agency do you work for? Only asking because some people want to research and read reviews on the agency/agents before booking to make sure it's a good fit for their travel needs. 2. Are travel agents able to use the client's loyalty points (credit card, airline, etc) for their booking? Specifically, in additional to the discounts you would get on a group rate (when available)? 3. How do travel agents handle off-hours issues - such as a missed/cancelled flight at midnight for example? Are agents available 24x7 in North America to assist when these rare instances happen? Or, do they outsource services to other countries that can assist when its non-business hours? Would love to hear your feedback on this!
Have you ever made a video on travel insurance? I am so confused with all the information on travel insurance In your professional opinion is there one better than the other one that you would recommend and put your name behind?
I just booked a cruise with Amy and she sent me travel insurance offers and the ones she sent me I thought were pretty easy to understand the other ones confuse the hell out of me so I don’t bother with him this one I think I understand a little bit better I love this company
Great question!! 1. What is your specialty (they should have one) 2. How many trips have you taken within your specialty (for a cruise specialist, how many cruises have you been on) 3. For cruising, how many different cruise lines have you sailed with. 4. What tips would they give you for your trip (they should have the knowledge to make recommendations) 5. What is a must do on the trip I am planning (they should be able to tell you what you can’t miss and what is not so spectacular)
I would not agree with you or support you But respect you I don’t book with travel agents and enjoy the experience knowing I pick my trip without travel agents getting money 💰 I try travel agents and loss money ( yes money because the travel agent miss takes)
It's very detailed , get a agent from insurance to policy changes, what's included, what can be added as fees, best food and less crowds. And where everything is on the ship, what to bring, how to get on the boat & off, how to get thru town, flying in best hotels for catching a biat at Port. what cash you need on hand & what country's laws - expectations, what can't be bought and brought on a boat, how to get the best room for you. Whether it's seasick issues, - perfect view, quiet, mobility issues, kid issues for and against, and party boats vs luxury, and what really the true experience at Port from beaches, Port shops, taxis, busses, tours, historic places, shopping, touristy hot spots. You know them all or you can work thru the blips that come up. About how to wifi, how to use the pay per view is things worth my $ and time. And Is stopping at a Port worth my while to get off and pay the Port fees finding something to do that's mybtype of vacation. Working thru those tiny bits makes things smooth. Get one like eecc that travels. Some don't or did 20 years ago. It's 2023 you need info that's spot on current. Get someone who gives you options, and knows the pitfalls of that choice you are making. Knowledge is the
We have tried using travel agents and it's quite difficult to find one who can deal with Expats. I've booked all our cruises direct and so far it's worked out. Would love to have an agent get our visa's and handle all the endless details involved with traveling to multiple Countries and the stops before and after the cruise. Hotels, airlines, trains, shuttles, tours it's a ton of work for a 9 day cruise / 18 day holiday
In our experience travel agents add nothing to the experience when booking a simple cruise. Even on one of our more complex trips coming up we took the booking back from the agent to the cruise line. The agent did not want to work on our trip because they said it was too early despite my wife telling them there is a festival in Reykjavik when we are there. I am sure there are good agents but we haven’t found one yet. For a simple cruise out of Florida I would never use an agent. There is no reason to.
My question: if you go through a travel agent, can you redeem a client's rewards when booking things; either credit card rewards and/or the related loyalty rewards? What if you have an airlines credit card, and a hotel credit card, and a cruise line credit card (and the related loyalty program rewards for all of them). Or would it be better for the cruiser to book everything on their own to redeem rewards or get credit on the proper cards?
It depends… I know that’s not a straight answer but there are a lot of factors on this. You can definitely use any credit card you want to earn points.
How do TAs deal with those of us who use points/miles for flights or hotel rooms? I want to do a big cruise to Australia and a COMFORTABLE flight back to US costs exactly $Arm&Leg. But with my points built up, I'm hoping to get a Business Class flight with just points and fees. Thanks for video! Love all your videos!
We can help on the research side but usually can’t book with points. I think AmEx can be an exception. But we can help with the other parts of the trips.
Delia, you can always book your own flights. Most times this can help you control your own flights, because if you choose to use bulk air which some cruise lines offer like Princess, you can choose which flights are acceptable for you. I believe they also offer business class, I’m too cheap to spend on that so I can’t comment on business class. If you’re using NCL bulk rate, NCL will be choosing your flights. Supposedly up to 2 stops but who knows how many hours. Then NCL might change it right before the cruise 😮 I’d recommend buying your own flight to get to the ship on time, without any stress and use their bulk air one way to return home. That’s assuming you don’t need to be back at work by a certain day or time. 😊 I’d avoid airport connections like San Francisco where the weather may be their reason to cancel or delay flights.
So I recently booked with the cruise line. Probably should have asked travel agent for rates… but I got a coupon of $1000 off of booking directly with the cruise line (through a separate rewards program). It felt too good to pass up on
I am definitely one who does not like to hand over control of my travel plans to anyone however, after attempting to plan a group cruise that ended up getting canceled because of the shutdown (we were the only ones who kept are booked cruise) Alisa and her whole team made it a pleasure to work with. Even to the point I almost had a panic attack when I received an email from the cruise line 4 days before my cruise that my cruise was going to be canceled because of a mixup with questionnaire. I knew from that moment when Michele on her team answered her phone while in Hawaii on an excursion mind you and helped me sort out my issue I knew I could without any doubt trust EECC Travels to handle my own travel. ❤
I research everything myself. I dig thru reviews on everything. Travel agents don’t research the area of the hotels. Got burned on one of our cruise cause I let a travel agent book our hotel. It was close to the port but it was the worst and run down hotel I’ve ever stay at.
I have a question for Alisa... Will you let the customer know how their cruise is coming together and if you found out something is different or better than what the customer asked for?
I used to book by own travel until I couldn't get a flight without going South East to go North West. The travel agent was able to get me a one-stop flight with 8 hours less flying time. I had already booked my cruise but now use my TA to do cruise, flight, and hotel bookings (plus a couple excursions). I'm an expat, so use an American TA when traveling in the Western Hemisphere and an Australian TA when traveling in the Eastern Hemisphere as each know their locality best. I'm glad a watched this because I had felt guilty for having two TA's but now know it is best to use whomever has the best knowledge of the vacation.
Whats you feelings on booking on third party online cruse web site are they really safe Im skeptic because the prices are lower on their site and there are a lot of scammers out there just want to deal with a reputable company. I really enjoy your videos lots of good information thank you.
I booked for the first time using a travel agent and not sure I like it. The rate was good but getting a hold of the person to ask questions is hard. Also he didn't asked where I like my room, he just booked the room based on his likes. I am not big on booking on higher decks, I don't care about being closer to pools, or food. And I still have to find airline and not helping with excursions. Just booked the cruise room.
I enjoy booking my own cruises and all the things that go with it. I have been wondering about teaming up with a host agency to do this part time, while I work my full time job. Do you have tips for those considering going into this part time on picking a host agency? My thought would be to build up my business over time and then in 2 to 3 years quit my full time job to do this full time. Plus, I want to make sure this is a good fit. thanks in advance for your help in this matter
I am booking a cruise to Greece for May. I am interested in finding a travel agent to help me. It's a year away and I'm collecting information right now. My biggest concern is finding someone knowledgeable in this area. Are you?
Im going to Bermuda🇧🇲 on the Norwegian Pearl this Friday well we had a travel agent we booked last September for this cruise we put money down for a nice room with balcony to celebrate our 25 anniversary, well came this March we went to pay it off came to fine out we lost the room cuz she forgot to book it. She was rude didn't even help us at all so wirh the refund we booked it ourselves. We werent lucky to get a balcony but we got a window but she didn't like fight for us like 2 see what she can do all she said was good luck. But im not saying all agents is like her. BUT ill definitely go with u guys take care❤❤
Alicia, you haven't been a TA that long. You used to be in insurance. If you use a TA Marriott and Hilton will not give loyalty points and airline points?
I became a TA in 2018 and weathered hundreds of rebooks due to COVID. I worked both careers for a while but transitioned to a full time TA. It depends on how the hotel/flight is booked but yes it is possible to get the points.
Me and my family have just experienced a horror story going through the Norwegian 1-800 number. We got an NCL agent and she did good for several cruises that my wife and I took, however, this trip we are taking our entire family. Kids, grandkids, and greats. 13 of us in all. We started with just 4 of us, but when the vaccine regulation was listed, we added our granddaughter, husband and 3 sons. They booked them two rooms with one of the boys staying with us. They forgot to add airfare for the boy with us until I noticed it. Took awhile to get that resolved. The agent rarely answers my calls or responds to my emails. Then another grandson and his wife and soon to be adopted daughter wanted to join. Only problem was the adoption isn't final and the social worker said she could not get a passport only a birth certificate. NCL said a birth certificate was enough, however, when it came time to checkin last week, they wouldn't allow it. Even though I have an email that documented her answer, they changed their mind. Leaving Alaska and arriving in Vancouver. Here was their final answer: "I apologize but because everyone opted out of Travel Protection there’s nothing that can be done. Even if you purchased travel protection, the any passenger unable to obtain the proper travel documentation required would not be a covered reason. Unfortunately there’s nothing me or my supervisors are able to do to help. We can either remove her from the cabin or cancel that cabin. They will get port fees and taxes and any gratuities prepaid reimbursed. I looked at every possible option for you. Kind Regards," Pitiful. Next cruise I'm calling EECC! Fortunately there is a new Social Worker involved and she get her director to travel 45 minutes to Raleigh to sign for a passport and the local congresswoman signed a paper expediting the process. She's going and I'm not losing my money. Finally I had one more granddaughter that just became available. The Norwegian lady didn't arrange ground transportation for her and we had to go through the NCL 1-800 number to get it done. Double Pitiful.
That was question rolling around in my head too. Thank you for the answer. Now I understand why the cruise line wants you to have your own personal cruise consultant!
Although we loved you being our travel agent, my husband didn't like having to make payments through you rather than just paying the cruise line. But we still love ya!
Can you help with the pre cruise hotel/transport and flights for a charter cruise I already have booked for next year? (It’s a Sixthman cruise so we had to book directly thru them for it).
Sure can. And actually TAs can book Sixthman too. I was actually invited by NCL on one to check out how the charters work but had a schedule conflict and couldn’t go.
We just got burned by a travel agent from Cruise Brothers Travel. Our agent was super friendly, helpful and responsive even after we paid our deposit. We needed to change sailings due to an unexpected health issue and the cruise line couldn’t do anything without the agent giving them permission and she stopped responding. When we finally got a response she strung us along but didn’t do anything. I finally managed to get a response 4 months later when I finally just asked to let the cruise line take over the booking because she wasn’t getting anything done and she refused to hand over our booking to the cruise line so we were forced to cancel losing our 1000 dollar deposit. She was very slow to respond and it was excuse after excuse of “I promise I’ll get to it tomorrow” “I promise you’re next on the list”. She wouldn’t respond to the cruise line even asking for permission to change the booking. NEVER again.
I love to research and pretty much know exactly what I want. I use TAs for extra OBC or perks. I have seen some that do charge a small fee. I personally wouldn’t use one of them. How many TAs still book flights that aren’t part of a package?
Same here. I always know what I want, what ship, and what category of cabin. I only use a travel agent for OBC too. When I asked about booking a hotel, the travel agent said she doesn’t make hotel arrangements.
We find it best not to do this. There is mo savings for the client and all correspondence would go to the TA instead. Stand alone flights are best booked direct. But there are benefits with a package if you have 2-3 hotel nights.
@@EECCTravels Yes. And no commission for you. I went to school to be a travel agent back in the early 90’s. Just as I graduated the airlines stopped giving commissions. Cruising and all inclusives weren’t so big of an industry then so I never ended up going into the business.
My cousin used to be a travel agent many years ago. Now listening to your video I want to be one too. How do you go about that? You have to be licensed, correct?
Good to know I never use travel agents I always call cruise lines or book on line my self for everything & yes a lot of times on the phone I always think if use travel agents gonna cost me more money so that why I never want to use travel agents but after I watch your VDO I will try to use travel agents next time so hope can talk to you . I do have a question I have book cruise for next year in October can I still use you or talk to you about booking airline& hotels to get to the cruise terminal ? Thanks
There is a commission built into every travel booking. If you use a travel professional, this is how they are compensated. If you don’t, the travel supplier/cruise line, etc keeps it.
Hi Annette! It depends on when they were booked as each cruise line has guidelines for transfers. If you will please send me an email we can chat about the specifics. travels@eecctravels.com
I had only sailed NCL and had a wonderful PCC, but found a Princess cruise I wanted to try. I filled out the form at your website and have been working with Lori Meyer, who ALSO is wonderful. One of the things I like is that I no longer feel "locked in" with one cruise line. I know Lori will be able to help me, regardless. And YES, she got me an incredible $360 OBC for a 15 day Transatlantic!!! That never would have happened with a cruise line PCC.
I have a question as an agent are we able to upgrade to a better room if ship is not booked? Also I don't drink drink alcohol but my husband does. Do I have to buy a liquor package too?
I am very disappointed that you can't help everyone 😔 I am in Australia and unfortunately you can't help me.😢 Don't worry, some say that I am beyond help but that's another story 😂.
I can say we have double che ked the price with travel agent VS direct. It's never been more going direct. I don't have time e to spend all day on phone either
@@musclebabies no they don’t… but there is a commission built into every cruise price. That is how a TA gets paid. If you book direct, the cruise line just keeps this amount.
When I travel, my normal is to research, book and control my travel, all myself. However, the only time that we allowed someone else to book something for us was our first and only cruise thus far. We went to our local AAA travel office and their travel-planner, Joyce, did our booking. I had done some research on a couple cruises and decided on a specific Carnival ship for certain dates. What I discovered was that Joyce had access to cabins that I did not see on the Carnival booking site. Joyce was able to get us two connecting cabins for our family. Did Joyce give us suggestions? No. Did she get us any 'deals'? No. She did print out all our boarding passes and luggage tags, and even laminated our ship luggage tags. That was a nice touch. Did I feel she was "well traveled" in regards to cruising. She apparently did some cruising, but did not 'hold a candle' to the experience I see in EECC.
I keep telling my wife that I want to take her on a "second honeymoon" cruise when I am retired, hopefully soon. Before watching Jason and Elisa, my cruise 'world' was limited to Carnival. Sometimes I feel like I am "Cruising by proxy" watching your cruise videos.
I like to watch your videos for ideas. I like to research the cruise line website and do 'mock bookings' to get an idea of prices and options. But, when we are ready to pull the trigger to book, we will most likely come to EECC. I will definitely be looking to your experience for narrowing it down to Line, Ship, Dates, Excursions, Etc. We really appreciate all your videos.
Awe a second honeymoon sounds wonderful!! I will be happy to help when you are ready!!
We have done it direct with cruise line and when we can we try to use Costco travel, when we have done it when they offer complementary pre-paid gratuities, several other perks and a Costco shop card upon return. The Panama Canal cruise we have booked the gratuities and the shop card alone total around $1200. and there is percentage for executive membership and it CITI card is used there is another percentage. I know Costco is for everyone but the cruises we booked through them has been great, when we had a problem while on an Alaska cruise on HAL they were the point of contact and settled our issue right away. Great video as usual.
OK I finally found my travel agency and my travel agent Amy is a rockstar. I have been looking for a travel agent here in Florida because I know it’s better to use a travel agent. Nobody in Florida wants to work. I’ve been watching your videos for quite some time now and find them extremely helpful. Then I realized you are a travel agency. I filled out your paperwork and within minutes received an email from Amy and we pretty much had my next trip booked within three hours. I’m still waiting on a callback from a local agent in Florida from a month and a half ago. Amy is a rockstar and I have forwarded her information to everyone that I know thank you you guys are killing it.
Yay!! Yes Amy is fabulous!!
@@EECCTravels😊
Thank you. This helped. Did 1st Travel agent with AAA for Rocky Mountaineer to Canada. Great trip, the Brewster Land/ Bus tour for 9 days was the best. Travel Agent...well nothing I could not have done.
BUT you explained well & for an extended cruise to Alaska in 2025 we may do a TA, & it may be you😊
I am soooooo very thankful after watching your You Tube channel that I reached out and contacted you and booked with you! Everyone let me say this over and over again.....her customer service is OFF THE CHARTS....if you want or need a dependable TA then Alisa is your go to gal. Moving forward she has earned ALL my cruise business. Wish I could have transferred my upcoming January 2024 cruise to EECC as well, live and learn price definitely is not the best way to book.
Awe thank you 😊
After watching EECC Travels for a couple years I finally decided to go for it and go on my first cruise! My second vacation ever. So I let y'all take the scary away and book my cruise, flight and the hotel for the day before our ship leaves. Amy was wonderful! No matter how many questions I had Amy was there for me and very sweet! And even though my cruise is 6 months away Amy said she would be there for me if I needed anything else. EECC Travels is the best! Thank you so much!!!❤❤❤
You booked a cruise to me and my husband and we loved everything! Can't wait to do it again!
So glad you enjoyed it!!
I used to do my own bookings with Princess. Then I got an email from one of their PVP's and we hit it off quickly. She has done that last 3 bookings for us with no issues. She is handling our first back-to-back in November as we have never done that before. Answered my questions easily which I appreciated. I am a retired scheduler / office manager, so you know how hard it is just to let someone else handle it :) JennyB was our TA for the Vloggers Extravaganza and because of her agency we got a few perks that I would not have gotten otherwise. What a sweetheart. Good information you gave especially for the new cruisers. Thanks for sharing!!
I do both. I normally book my cruise, but i use the cruise line, and she has been able to help us with upgrades, canceling and rebooking some cruises.
Had a travel agent for a bit, never again, don't like giving up that much control. Its not that much of a bother doing it on your own.
Seems like once they have you booked you're old news and they arent looking for price drops anymore since they got their part of your $$$
@@mrlong4269 there is a lot more than just price drops. I don’t check on a daily basis, and don’t promise that I do, but do check periodically and definitely before final payment (which is when many happen. I always tell my clients that two sets of eyes are better than one on price drops. But a TA can add a lot of value in other ways.
@@EECCTravels OK, sounds like worth a try.
I’ve done it both ways. A travel agent can do all the not fun stuff like if you need to change something they will do the waiting on the phone instead of you being on hold possibly hours. Never thought I lost any control, still choose what I want, it’s still your vacation a TA just helps when you need it.
OK boo
Just took a cruise (Alaska) for the first time in 20 years. did it all myself , direct with cruise line and Expedia for the rest. Yes the cruise line can do flights, insurance, and hotels, but not cheapest, for sure. I try and go cheap on things, hotels, flights and it was not the hardest, but if I ever run into problems, I am on my own. everything worked out pretty well, but that will not always be the case
If it's in America, I am very comfortable with it, but when its overseas, thats where I have apprehensions. But now that I jut retired, will be trying to see the country and world wit at least 1 cruise a year, and I plan on a cruise then a land based part ( IE, transatlantic cruise, then tour Rome , or Spain, or England).
I am sorta ( friends will laugh at 'sorta') a control freak and so very much on the fence about a TA. I have talked to a TA, who I know, and I believe she could work for certain things, but definitely not cruising. I do a ton of research, and know what I want, but still uncertain if I leave money on the table.
I've used a TA twice, once for our honeymoon in Hawaii and once with Princess, as it appeared that you had to. For the Hawaii trip she was invaluable! For the PCL cruise, my neighbor, who is a TA managed to get our first and only stateroom upgrade! 🎉
So glad you have a good one 👍
I wouldn't book a cruise without a travel agent 🤔😀 You guy's help me look at a cruise that would fit our needs.👍 Thanks for sharing 🤗
I call the cruise line and book directly with them and tell them exactly what I want. You don’t have to go through a travel agent. I have been on numerous cruise and I never booked through a travel agent.
Our travel agent has been invaluable to us. She always has our back!
Another fact filled video!! I will never EVER travel without using a Travel Advisor. Sooo many reasons why....and you covered all of them!
Great video! We did a Cancun trip using Sara! Great experience and will use you all again. It’s just so much easier when ya have questions., they may get annoyed at ya but that’s what they are for. Those random questions,, “never felt like we annoyed anyone” but they help ya out. Shout out to Sara! Love ya guys. 🎉
Yay!! So glad you had such a great experience!! Sara is awesome!
using a travel agent seems to be a no brainer....however, a number of years ago we went down the parallel paths of getting a quote from an agent for airline, pre/post cruise hotel, rental car and the cruise itself (including drink package)...we found for all 4 areas it was cheaper for us to do it ourselves! we have done the same spot checks since then and in all cases we found it cheaper or the same price to do our own booking...the only exception was 5 years ago when we took a family cruise and booked 8 balcony rooms and each room got 2 bottles of free wine, other than that, it was better to do it ourselves
I'm confident you would be the best Travel Agent! I am passing your name on to a few family members. My cruising days have resorted to classic cars.
This was a great video! I’m actually taking a TA course right now and will be taking the TAP exam at the end of it. I have discovered that I LOVE cruising, which has made me want to learn as much as I can about it. I’m about to embark on my third at the end of this month, which I know is a small amount but I’m hoping it’s the next of many. Thanks so much for the video. Love your channel!
Awesome video!! Spot on in so many areas. Really enjoyed all your commentary! ❤
My travel agent has been with Vacations to Go for 19 years. It is sooooo much cheaper to book with VTG, most of the time, than to book via the cruise line, in my experience. I had so many cruises cancelled during the pandemic, including a whopper cruise that included China in Feb. 2020, and my travel agent took care of everything. Plus, I’ve worked with him so often that he knows exactly what I want, and a quick e-mail or phone call is all it takes to schedule a cruise or make changes. With the cruise line, I have to wait on hold for hours, and sometimes they know what they’re doing and sometimes they don’t.
That’s who I have used for my past couple of cruises, and I agree, they have great pricing! I have actually been singing their praises to many of my friends who like cruising so they will hopefully check them out.
I will give EECC Travels a try for my next cruise in early 2025. Look forward to it.
I have a friend at NCL in the Casino at Sea Dept. I look for the cruise on the website, then find the one I want, and call her. I have a friend who is a local travel agent that helped me book my trip to Europe (not a cruise). My friend at NCL told me that I can add my travel agent as a secondary agent! I can have the best of both worlds! Since I don't care for other cruise lines, having a person in NCL and a local travel agent works for me and helps out both of my friends!
Hi Alisa - GREAT video - thank you so much for posting this! I really enjoy your content - you and Jason are awesome! I usually prefer to book on my own, but I was wondering if you could answer a few questions.
1. What host agency do you work for? Only asking because some people want to research and read reviews on the agency/agents before booking to make sure it's a good fit for their travel needs.
2. Are travel agents able to use the client's loyalty points (credit card, airline, etc) for their booking? Specifically, in additional to the discounts you would get on a group rate (when available)?
3. How do travel agents handle off-hours issues - such as a missed/cancelled flight at midnight for example? Are agents available 24x7 in North America to assist when these rare instances happen? Or, do they outsource services to other countries that can assist when its non-business hours?
Would love to hear your feedback on this!
Hi! This is a lot to answer in the comments but if you copy and paste into an email to alisa@eecctravels.com I will be happy to answer 👍
Yes I'm one of those control freaks lol so I book all my own travel. But I love love yalls videos.
❤❤ I need to get back with you after July 8th when my October cruise is paid for and it's time to book for May 2024
Sounds like a plan 👍
Have you ever made a video on travel insurance? I am so confused with all the information on travel insurance In your professional opinion is there one better than the other one that you would recommend and put your name behind?
This topic is on my to do list!
I just booked a cruise with Amy and she sent me travel insurance offers and the ones she sent me I thought were pretty easy to understand the other ones confuse the hell out of me so I don’t bother with him this one I think I understand a little bit better I love this company
Direct is just easier for us. But can see why some people would use travel agents
Very interesting and informative video, thank you. Your hair is looking great Alisa and I love those earrings!
What would be your top 5 questions to ask a potential travel agent?
Great question!!
1. What is your specialty (they should have one)
2. How many trips have you taken within your specialty (for a cruise specialist, how many cruises have you been on)
3. For cruising, how many different cruise lines have you sailed with.
4. What tips would they give you for your trip (they should have the knowledge to make recommendations)
5. What is a must do on the trip I am planning (they should be able to tell you what you can’t miss and what is not so spectacular)
Thanks!
I would not agree with you or support you
But respect you
I don’t book with travel agents and enjoy the experience knowing I pick my trip without travel agents getting money
💰
I try travel agents and loss money ( yes money because the travel agent miss takes)
It's very detailed , get a agent from insurance to policy changes, what's included, what can be added as fees, best food and less crowds. And where everything is on the ship, what to bring, how to get on the boat & off, how to get thru town, flying in best hotels for catching a biat at Port. what cash you need on hand & what country's laws - expectations, what can't be bought and brought on a boat, how to get the best room for you. Whether it's seasick issues, - perfect view, quiet, mobility issues, kid issues for and against, and party boats vs luxury, and what really the true experience at Port from beaches, Port shops, taxis, busses, tours, historic places, shopping, touristy hot spots. You know them all or you can work thru the blips that come up. About how to wifi, how to use the pay per view is things worth my $ and time. And Is stopping at a Port worth my while to get off and pay the Port fees finding something to do that's mybtype of vacation. Working thru those tiny bits makes things smooth. Get one like eecc that travels. Some don't or did 20 years ago. It's 2023 you need info that's spot on current. Get someone who gives you options, and knows the pitfalls of that choice you are making. Knowledge is the
We have tried using travel agents and it's quite difficult to find one who can deal with Expats. I've booked all our cruises direct and so far it's worked out. Would love to have an agent get our visa's and handle all the endless details involved with traveling to multiple Countries and the stops before and after the cruise. Hotels, airlines, trains, shuttles, tours it's a ton of work for a 9 day cruise / 18 day holiday
Just booked a cruise on the Celebrity Ascent in November 2024 with a travel agent. Got great discounts and extra onboard credit through the agency!
❤ love your videos, lots of positive energy.
Have you post a link or description of where to get the wooden map that's behind you?
In our experience travel agents add nothing to the experience when booking a simple cruise. Even on one of our more complex trips coming up we took the booking back from the agent to the cruise line. The agent did not want to work on our trip because they said it was too early despite my wife telling them there is a festival in Reykjavik when we are there. I am sure there are good agents but we haven’t found one yet. For a simple cruise out of Florida I would never use an agent. There is no reason to.
My question: if you go through a travel agent, can you redeem a client's rewards when booking things; either credit card rewards and/or the related loyalty rewards? What if you have an airlines credit card, and a hotel credit card, and a cruise line credit card (and the related loyalty program rewards for all of them). Or would it be better for the cruiser to book everything on their own to redeem rewards or get credit on the proper cards?
It depends… I know that’s not a straight answer but there are a lot of factors on this. You can definitely use any credit card you want to earn points.
#1 is misspelled. Love you guys!!
How do TAs deal with those of us who use points/miles for flights or hotel rooms? I want to do a big cruise to Australia and a COMFORTABLE flight back to US costs exactly $Arm&Leg. But with my points built up, I'm hoping to get a Business Class flight with just points and fees. Thanks for video! Love all your videos!
We can help on the research side but usually can’t book with points. I think AmEx can be an exception. But we can help with the other parts of the trips.
Delia, you can always book your own flights. Most times this can help you control your own flights, because if you choose to use bulk air which some cruise lines offer like Princess, you can choose which flights are acceptable for you. I believe they also offer business class, I’m too cheap to spend on that so I can’t comment on business class.
If you’re using NCL bulk rate, NCL will be choosing your flights. Supposedly up to 2 stops but who knows how many hours. Then NCL might change it right before the cruise 😮 I’d recommend buying your own flight to get to the ship on time, without any stress and use their bulk air one way to return home. That’s assuming you don’t need to be back at work by a certain day or time. 😊 I’d avoid airport connections like San Francisco where the weather may be their reason to cancel or delay flights.
So I recently booked with the cruise line. Probably should have asked travel agent for rates… but I got a coupon of $1000 off of booking directly with the cruise line (through a separate rewards program). It felt too good to pass up on
I am definitely one who does not like to hand over control of my travel plans to anyone however, after attempting to plan a group cruise that ended up getting canceled because of the shutdown (we were the only ones who kept are booked cruise) Alisa and her whole team made it a pleasure to work with. Even to the point I almost had a panic attack when I received an email from the cruise line 4 days before my cruise that my cruise was going to be canceled because of a mixup with questionnaire. I knew from that moment when Michele on her team answered her phone while in Hawaii on an excursion mind you and helped me sort out my issue I knew I could without any doubt trust EECC Travels to handle my own travel. ❤
We are there to help!!! ❤️
I research everything myself. I dig thru reviews on everything. Travel agents don’t research the area of the hotels. Got burned on one of our cruise cause I let a travel agent book our hotel. It was close to the port but it was the worst and run down hotel I’ve ever stay at.
Sorry you had a bad experience! I do research hotels and read customer reviews before I recommend a hotel to a client.
I have a question for Alisa... Will you let the customer know how their cruise is coming together and if you found out something is different or better than what the customer asked for?
Oh absolutely!
I used to book by own travel until I couldn't get a flight without going South East to go North West. The travel agent was able to get me a one-stop flight with 8 hours less flying time. I had already booked my cruise but now use my TA to do cruise, flight, and hotel bookings (plus a couple excursions). I'm an expat, so use an American TA when traveling in the Western Hemisphere and an Australian TA when traveling in the Eastern Hemisphere as each know their locality best. I'm glad a watched this because I had felt guilty for having two TA's but now know it is best to use whomever has the best knowledge of the vacation.
Thank you. I have always wondered
Whats you feelings on booking on third party online cruse web site are they really safe Im skeptic because the prices are lower on their site and there are a lot of scammers out there just want to deal with a reputable company. I really enjoy your videos lots of good information thank you.
Yes book through an agent! I specialise in discounted cruises ❤
I booked for the first time using a travel agent and not sure I like it. The rate was good but getting a hold of the person to ask questions is hard. Also he didn't asked where I like my room, he just booked the room based on his likes. I am not big on booking on higher decks, I don't care about being closer to pools, or food. And I still have to find airline and not helping with excursions. Just booked the cruise room.
Not all TAs are created equal… maybe try someone else next time.
Can you take over a pre-existing reservation that I made directly with the cruise line?
Yes. There are parameters on times to take over. Will please send me an email and we can look at the specifics.
We LOVE YOU!!❤❤
This was soooo helpful...
Do you only do cruises? What about land vacations?
Cruising is my specialty, but I have a tram who works with me as well and between all of us we can do just about anything!
I enjoy booking my own cruises and all the things that go with it. I have been wondering about teaming up with a host agency to do this part time, while I work my full time job. Do you have tips for those considering going into this part time on picking a host agency? My thought would be to build up my business over time and then in 2 to 3 years quit my full time job to do this full time. Plus, I want to make sure this is a good fit. thanks in advance for your help in this matter
I am booking a cruise to Greece for May. I am interested in finding a travel agent to help me. It's a year away and I'm collecting information right now. My biggest concern is finding someone knowledgeable in this area. Are you?
Im going to Bermuda🇧🇲 on the Norwegian Pearl this Friday well we had a travel agent we booked last September for this cruise we put money down for a nice room with balcony to celebrate our 25 anniversary, well came this March we went to pay it off came to fine out we lost the room cuz she forgot to book it. She was rude didn't even help us at all so wirh the refund we booked it ourselves. We werent lucky to get a balcony but we got a window but she didn't like fight for us like 2 see what she can do all she said was good luck. But im not saying all agents is like her. BUT ill definitely go with u guys take care❤❤
Alicia, you haven't been a TA that long. You used to be in insurance. If you use a TA Marriott and Hilton will not give loyalty points and airline points?
I became a TA in 2018 and weathered hundreds of rebooks due to COVID. I worked both careers for a while but transitioned to a full time TA. It depends on how the hotel/flight is booked but yes it is possible to get the points.
Me and my family have just experienced a horror story going through the Norwegian 1-800 number. We got an NCL agent and she did good for several cruises that my wife and I took, however, this trip we are taking our entire family. Kids, grandkids, and greats. 13 of us in all. We started with just 4 of us, but when the vaccine regulation was listed, we added our granddaughter, husband and 3 sons. They booked them two rooms with one of the boys staying with us. They forgot to add airfare for the boy with us until I noticed it. Took awhile to get that resolved. The agent rarely answers my calls or responds to my emails. Then another grandson and his wife and soon to be adopted daughter wanted to join. Only problem was the adoption isn't final and the social worker said she could not get a passport only a birth certificate. NCL said a birth certificate was enough, however, when it came time to checkin last week, they wouldn't allow it. Even though I have an email that documented her answer, they changed their mind. Leaving Alaska and arriving in Vancouver. Here was their final answer:
"I apologize but because everyone opted out of Travel Protection there’s nothing that can be done.
Even if you purchased travel protection, the any passenger unable to obtain the proper travel documentation required would not be a covered reason.
Unfortunately there’s nothing me or my supervisors are able to do to help.
We can either remove her from the cabin or cancel that cabin.
They will get port fees and taxes and any gratuities prepaid reimbursed.
I looked at every possible option for you.
Kind Regards,"
Pitiful.
Next cruise I'm calling EECC!
Fortunately there is a new Social Worker involved and she get her director to travel 45 minutes to Raleigh to sign for a passport and the local congresswoman signed a paper expediting the process. She's going and I'm not losing my money.
Finally I had one more granddaughter that just became available. The Norwegian lady didn't arrange ground transportation for her and we had to go through the NCL 1-800 number to get it done. Double Pitiful.
Anyone that has tried to book a Disney cruise on opening day can really appreciate what a travel agent can do for you!
Would never go on Disney. Not for me in any conceivable way.
@@davva360 just pointing out how valuable TA’s are when there are situations of booking frenzies. No matter which cruiseline.
How do you become a travel agent?
Not sure if you done a video about this but with all the cruises and ships, wondering what your favorite cruise line is and favorite ship has been?
We have, a few months ago. It should be in our cruise tips playlist.
Ok…so how do you make money if it cost the same booking alone? I’m so confused. Just very interested.
There is a commission built into every booking. If you book direct the cruise line just keeps it.
That was question rolling around in my head too. Thank you for the answer. Now I understand why the cruise line wants you to have your own personal cruise consultant!
Although we loved you being our travel agent, my husband didn't like having to make payments through you rather than just paying the cruise line. But we still love ya!
Are you experienced with river cruises or just ocean?
Can you help with the pre cruise hotel/transport and flights for a charter cruise I already have booked for next year? (It’s a Sixthman cruise so we had to book directly thru them for it).
PS…. I absolutely love your channel. My 3 year old even asks to watch “Jason and Alisa”. It’s one of her favorites shows 🤣❤🛳️
Sure can. And actually TAs can book Sixthman too. I was actually invited by NCL on one to check out how the charters work but had a schedule conflict and couldn’t go.
@@EECCTravels oh awesome!! I will email you this week to get the ball rolling! ❤️
I booked a cruise through carnival and they offer price protection. Do you check back with the cruise line to get the lowest possible price?
Yes. But I always say two sets of eyes are better than one so let’s both keep an eye on it.
We just got burned by a travel agent from Cruise Brothers Travel. Our agent was super friendly, helpful and responsive even after we paid our deposit. We needed to change sailings due to an unexpected health issue and the cruise line couldn’t do anything without the agent giving them permission and she stopped responding. When we finally got a response she strung us along but didn’t do anything. I finally managed to get a response 4 months later when I finally just asked to let the cruise line take over the booking because she wasn’t getting anything done and she refused to hand over our booking to the cruise line so we were forced to cancel losing our 1000 dollar deposit. She was very slow to respond and it was excuse after excuse of “I promise I’ll get to it tomorrow” “I promise you’re next on the list”. She wouldn’t respond to the cruise line even asking for permission to change the booking. NEVER again.
I love to research and pretty much know exactly what I want. I use TAs for extra OBC or perks. I have seen some that do charge a small fee. I personally wouldn’t use one of them. How many TAs still book flights that aren’t part of a package?
Same here. I always know what I want, what ship, and what category of cabin. I only use a travel agent for OBC too. When I asked about booking a hotel, the travel agent said she doesn’t make hotel arrangements.
We find it best not to do this. There is mo savings for the client and all correspondence would go to the TA instead. Stand alone flights are best booked direct. But there are benefits with a package if you have 2-3 hotel nights.
@@EECCTravels Yes. And no commission for you. I went to school to be a travel agent back in the early 90’s. Just as I graduated the airlines stopped giving commissions. Cruising and all inclusives weren’t so big of an industry then so I never ended up going into the business.
Great info. Thanks 😊
Great video thanks for the info!
More often, when I give up control, it equates to errors and mistakes,
Especially nowadays.
My cousin used to be a travel agent many years ago. Now listening to your video I want to be one too. How do you go about that? You have to be licensed, correct?
Love you guys..
Can you pay on your vacation up until time to go?
Great vid
If i already booked my cruise myself, is it to late to have a travel agent book all the rest for me, flight, to and from ports, ECT??
You can actually transfer your booking to us and we can also help you with the other! Just email us at travel@eecctravels.com
When I take my next cruise, I'm calling you because we GenX'ers know how to party:)
(and by party I mean eat, sleep and relax:) )
You know it!!!
Great info. Thank you
Good to know I never use travel agents I always call cruise lines or book on line my self for everything & yes a lot of times on the phone I always think if use travel agents gonna cost me more money so that why I never want to use travel agents but after I watch your VDO I will try to use travel agents next time so hope can talk to you . I do have a question I have book cruise for next year in October can I still use you or talk to you about booking airline& hotels to get to the cruise terminal ? Thanks
Yes, please send me an email to travel@eecctravels.com.
so how does a travel agent earn their money?
There is a commission built into every travel booking. If you use a travel professional, this is how they are compensated. If you don’t, the travel supplier/cruise line, etc keeps it.
THANKS I WILL USE AN agent from now on
@@EECCTravels
We booked directly with the ship. Next time I want a travel agent.
Do you manage bookings for people outside America?
Yes, from some countries. But all funds will be in USD.
Too bad we don't have good cruise TAs in Hawaii - I am reading atrocious reviews, looks like I am going to be booking everything myself.
I have 3 cruises booked for next year. Can they be transferred to you?
Hi Annette! It depends on when they were booked as each cruise line has guidelines for transfers. If you will please send me an email we can chat about the specifics. travels@eecctravels.com
Do you work with Canadians?
With those floppy heads, nah
I had only sailed NCL and had a wonderful PCC, but found a Princess cruise I wanted to try. I filled out the form at your website and have been working with Lori Meyer, who ALSO is wonderful. One of the things I like is that I no longer feel "locked in" with one cruise line. I know Lori will be able to help me, regardless. And YES, she got me an incredible $360 OBC for a 15 day Transatlantic!!! That never would have happened with a cruise line PCC.
Yay!! So glad we could help!!
I have a question as an agent are we able to upgrade to a better room if ship is not booked? Also I don't drink drink alcohol but my husband does. Do I have to buy a liquor package too?
Right now all ships are sailing near capacity so upgrades are difficult. And yes, every adult in the same cabin must buy the drink package.
There are quite a few UTube travel agents.
It was a natural fit for me as I love to travel, I love to plan and I love to share what I know 😃
Is there a number where I can call u at. I'm looking to book a cruise
I don’t want to post my number here… but email me and let’s get together and chat. Travel@eecctravels.com 👍
Ok. I will email u shortly thanks 😊
I am very disappointed that you can't help everyone 😔 I am in Australia and unfortunately you can't help me.😢 Don't worry, some say that I am beyond help but that's another story 😂.
If you are coming to the US I can help with your trip… the only thing is that the funds will be in USD. Let me know if I can do anything!
@EECC Travels Thank you that is good to know. Maybe you should mention that in a video when promoting your travel agency.
😊❤
I saw this email- I’m sold! Sent you an email 🎉😊
Is the "BIG C" Covid 🤔?! 😁😂🤣
Bottom line you wanna spend more use a travel agent. More effort = more money. Obviously
This is 100% NOT TRUE! Many times TAs can save clients money. I am not sure why you think it would cost more???
@@EECCTravels more hands in the pot. People don't work for free
I can say we have double che ked the price with travel agent VS direct. It's never been more going direct. I don't have time e to spend all day on phone either
@@musclebabies no they don’t… but there is a commission built into every cruise price. That is how a TA gets paid. If you book direct, the cruise line just keeps this amount.
@@maryfettig3378 you are correct!
Thanks so much! Very helpful 😊