Travel like herding cats

It was a great night out with friends. Lots of wine, laughter and heartfelt promises that planning a group trip to Europe would be “so much fun!”

It’s weeks later and you haven’t been able to get anyone to agree on any one thing.  

Everyone keeps taking off in their own direction and checking things out on the internet. I believe the term is herding cats.

Another scenario is trying to plan a family vacation with someone who is never available to sit down with the travel consultant due to their work schedule.

You go out, meet with the consultant, get some answers. Sit down at home and now get more questions. It’s exhausting, isn’t it?

Sure, there’s lots of information on the Internet, but sometimes the sheer volume of detail is overwhelming trying to discern what product, resort, supplier is right for you.

Luckily for you a new service is emerging in the travel industry. The mobile consultant.  

Today’s business world no longer operates on a 9 to 5 basis and entrepreneurial travel consultants have seen the need to offer “after hours” access to their planning skills, travel knowledge and experience in guiding client’s expectations with budget restrictions.

I have had great success with travel parties. Clients express a desire to get a group of friends organized on say a cruise or land tour. I encourage someone to host a planning party.  

A casual get-together to discuss destinations, options and budgets. If there is WIFI, I can pretty much conduct business as usual within the comforts of your home.  

Having a professional present to deflect questions in regards to air restrictions, transportation parameters and product comparisons helps to quickly guide the group towards a mutually beneficial choice.  

The one general rule however is that cocktails should be served after the travel discussion. Clear heads make better decisions.

If you’re struggling to pinpoint that perfect adventure for yourselves or your family, consider inviting your favorite travel professional to your next strategy session.  

This article is written by or on behalf of an outsourced columnist and does not necessarily reflect the views of Castanet.