Audio Version: Let Me Hear It!
Come Super Bowl Sunday, you will see 22 players on the field at one time. What you won’t see are the near 200 employees behind each team, making it all possible. Similarly, financial planners often have a team of experts with whom they consult before providing advice. Because we agree that there is no “I” in “team”, we have decided to highlight our expert resources once a month in answering real life questions received by clients, friends and family. We’re calling it “Street $ense”.
Street $ense: I Need a Vacation!
Whether it’s a lingering holiday hangover or a full deck of vacation time, travel seems to be on everyone’s mind this time of year. So, what is the best way to travel? For this, we will turn to our friends at Altour Travel, one of the largest travel agencies in New York, Los Angeles and the UK.
Check out Altour’s answers to the most common travel questions.
Q: Should I Use a Travel Agency?
A: Despite what many people think, in most cases, booking your trip through an agency won’t cost you more and there may be a lot of perks in doing so. Agencies are paid by commissions from the vendors and leveraging an agency versus booking directly can afford special perks like complimentary breakfast, early check-in or late check-out and discounts on resort services. Also, if you are traveling to a new place, a destination expert can help you with the ins and outs of the location to maximize your time and experience. If you’re not sure where you want to go, they can help with that too. It doesn’t cost a dime to give an agent a call, tell them about your vision and see if they can hook you up.
Q: Where Should I Go?
A: The world is your oyster! Cuba has become quite popular since the travel ban was lifted in 2016. Northern European countries like Iceland, Scotland and Ireland are also common destinations and warm weather climates in the Caribbean and Hawaii never seem to go out of style. Of course, the best destinations will depend on the time of year you plan to travel.
Q: Do I Need Travel Insurance?
A: For your weekend getaway, probably not. For more elaborate travel, yes. When considering insurance, think of it as a percentage of your total trip cost. It will be minimal and can help protect against unforeseen circumstances that may come up when booking far in advance. Know that insurance isn’t just for you and your traveling companions; in many cases, it can be used if someone in your immediate family falls ill while you are away, making it necessary for you to cut your trip short.
Q: How Do I Stay on Budget?
A: In the world of online booking, it’s far too easy to click and spend. I deserve it. Click. We need that upgrade. Click. It’s worth it. Click. Consulting with your financial advisor and then planning through an agent is a great way to keep your spending in check.
