Those of you that know me, Jamie, know that I am a runner. I run because I love the feeling of accomplishment and how I feel when I'm done. Last week I participated in a 5k "race" during a week-long training session held in Mexico.
The race was called "Running in Paradise." The setting was absolutely beautiful as we ran along a level path in the Riviera Maya, overlooking the ocean. It was late morning (well, for me it was late, 8 am). The birds were singing and the sun was bright. It was also RIDICULOUSLY humid and hot. I registered for this run because it was inexpensive, benefited homeless animals, and I had eaten way too much amazing food. Plus, I got a bright orange shirt.
The run organizers handed out the cotton shirts and said everyone should wear it for the run. I'm guessing it was so the could keep track of us and get good pictures. After a "call-to-post," a yoga-enthusiast got up and led us in some static stretches...I guess the don't-static-stretch-before-you-run philosophy hasn't reached Mexico yet. Then we were off!
Since I had run approximately 15 miles over the previous 2 days, I knew the heat and humidity was not going to be fun. Wearing the cotton shirt certainly didn't help! But I did have a pretty good idea of how hard I could push it. Some folks took off at the start, and as I suspected, they crashed and burned in the humidity. I must admit, one of my character flaws is the pleasure I get fro plodding past the folks that are walking because they went out too fast. Now I am a big fan of PLANNED walking, but I'm talking about the folks who totally blow their pacing, especially when they are young and male.
The course was mostly flat with a very slight uphill, including two "topes" (speed bumps) and a very large ramp (from the ground level to the first floor of the resort, 18 steps) that we had to run over twice. The course passed under the start line and went out about a half a mile further before the final turnaround so I got to see the soon-to-be winner running at a very nice clip. He was from Ireland and clearly handled the humidity just fine. All of a sudden I had a lady on a bicycle leading me. Since there were only a few of us, we would get bicycle escorts at certain points to make sure we didn't go off course. I got to pretend this was a real race and I was following the lead escort! She kept wanting to make conversation. I was actually able to talk a bit so I must not have been running as hard as I thought. Having the bicycle definitely made me run faster to try to catch her. Then she left to escort someone else and I "sprinted" to the finish.
I was the first female and second overall (Full disclosure: I think there were 5 girls and 2 guys total) with a time of 26:55, well off my PR, especially since my Garmin was dead-on at 3.1 miles, and I'm usually over in a race. Considering the conditions, I was pretty pleased. I grabbed a bottle of water, went to my room, changed into a bathing suit, and swam laps in the very long (about 175 yds) salt water pool. Overall a good training day!
Who else wants to do a Run in Paradise??
Monday, September 7, 2015
Friday, August 7, 2015
Don't Say Good-bye to Summer Yet!
Back to school shopping has begun! Tax free weekends, sales, whole sections of stores dedicated to classroom supplies, backpacks, and lunch boxes. But you don't have to say good-bye to summer just yet! For anyone looking to stretch summer out as long as possible, check out some great last minute deals to help you and your family enjoy the last few weeks of vacation.
RIU Hotels and Resorts has a special at their RIU Caribe Cancun resort in Mexico. It is an all-inclusive resort that can be serviced directly from BWI airport in Maryland. Right on the beach with multiple restaurants to enjoy, this resort provides ocean view rooms for all guests and is a great spot to finish off summer vacation. On select dates and conditions, kids under 12 can stay and eat free, too!
If you've got a bit more time and want more flexibility with your trip dates, Princess Cruises is offering deals on their 10 day cruises. These deals start on August 13 and run through the 23, but the cruises can be taken outside of these dates. There are multiple destinations in the Caribbean, Panama Canal, Mexico, and along the West Coast for a variety of vacation options. Major discounts are available right now including onboard credit and discounted rates. Call today to schedule your 10-day cruise!
AmResorts is another all-inclusive destination that is offering discounts through September 30. Up to 40% off certain resorts and trips if you call before the end of September and schedule your trip. These locations are great for honeymoons and retirement trips with romantic dining options and golf outings. Many AmResorts have free wi-fi so you can instagram all your fantastic photos to make family and friends wish they had joined you!
For families looking for a last hurrah over Labor Day weekend, Grand Lucayan Resort in the Bahamas is offering fantastic deals September 4-7. Great for families, this resort offers snorkeling, beaches, and many other activities to keep everyone having fun. Some deals also allow kids to stay and eat free!
It's hard to see summer come to an end, but Trippin' with Jamie wants to help you get the most out of your vacation time. Call us today and ask about these incredible end of summer deals and others! Whatever you're looking for in a vacation, we will do our best to help you find that!
Special Needs, Special Times, Trippin' with Jamie
RIU Hotels and Resorts has a special at their RIU Caribe Cancun resort in Mexico. It is an all-inclusive resort that can be serviced directly from BWI airport in Maryland. Right on the beach with multiple restaurants to enjoy, this resort provides ocean view rooms for all guests and is a great spot to finish off summer vacation. On select dates and conditions, kids under 12 can stay and eat free, too!
If you've got a bit more time and want more flexibility with your trip dates, Princess Cruises is offering deals on their 10 day cruises. These deals start on August 13 and run through the 23, but the cruises can be taken outside of these dates. There are multiple destinations in the Caribbean, Panama Canal, Mexico, and along the West Coast for a variety of vacation options. Major discounts are available right now including onboard credit and discounted rates. Call today to schedule your 10-day cruise!
AmResorts is another all-inclusive destination that is offering discounts through September 30. Up to 40% off certain resorts and trips if you call before the end of September and schedule your trip. These locations are great for honeymoons and retirement trips with romantic dining options and golf outings. Many AmResorts have free wi-fi so you can instagram all your fantastic photos to make family and friends wish they had joined you!
For families looking for a last hurrah over Labor Day weekend, Grand Lucayan Resort in the Bahamas is offering fantastic deals September 4-7. Great for families, this resort offers snorkeling, beaches, and many other activities to keep everyone having fun. Some deals also allow kids to stay and eat free!
It's hard to see summer come to an end, but Trippin' with Jamie wants to help you get the most out of your vacation time. Call us today and ask about these incredible end of summer deals and others! Whatever you're looking for in a vacation, we will do our best to help you find that!
Special Needs, Special Times, Trippin' with Jamie
Tuesday, July 28, 2015
Fun Dude Ranch Vacations for Families with Special Needs
Horseback riding, campfires under the stars, rustic but comfortable accommodations, incredible scenery...just some of the amenities that dude ranches offer families looking to get away from the busy city life. However, dude ranches can also be on the list of vacation destinations crossed off the list for families with special needs.
Riding solo on a large horse, uneven terrain that is difficult to navigate with a wheelchair, stairs up to a porch that opens into a cozy (read small and not wheelchair accessible) cabin...what makes dude ranches most attractive also is the major turn-off for families with special needs.
However, if a dude ranch has always been on your bucket list, or you just started reading this post and are now hooked, here are two destinations that are dedicated to helping families with special needs enjoy a dude ranch vacation with the whole family.
STAGECOACH TRAILS RANCH
The vision behind this Arizona dude ranch came from a family who had a daughter in a wheelchair. Because of their personal experience with their daughter, the entire ranch is handicapped accessible. The ranch is set up like an old western town but with plenty of modern adaptations to make it accessible for all guests. Every room and bathroom is accessible with a roll-in shower or ADA tub and hand-held shower. All common areas in the lodge and dining room are wide open and easy to navigate in a wheelchair. Horseback riding is offered, and the ranch offers a variety of accommodations for disabilities, such as a mounting ramp for wheelchairs and adaptive equipment. In addition, all wrangles are familiar with therapeutic riding and the horses are evaluated for the proper temperament. Side walkers or a double rider can be provided for riders with balance issues. The pool is accessible and a chair lift provides easy transitions from chair to the water. In the dining room, the chef is willing to accommodate special dietary requirements with advance knowledge. Bonfires, sing-a-longs, and stargazing are just some more of the activities that give guests a rustic dude ranch experience.
SUNDANCE TRAIL GUEST RANCH
Located in Colorado, this dude ranch provides a smaller feel than some of the larger guest resorts. Accommodating only 24 guests at a time, this ranch offers an intimate atmosphere without skimping on the activities. Completely wheelchair accessible and in partnership with a local medical supplier, Sundance aims to provide families with special needs any accommodations they can to allow every family a great vacation. The chefs are comfortable and familiar with accommodating a variety of special diet requirements including, gluten free, vegan, and various allergies. Advance notification is requested to provide each guest with a variety of options each meal. Another unique feature is their accommodation of the four legged family members as well. Well mannered dogs and horses are welcomed along with the human guests to allow the whole family a fun trip.
If either of these sound like your dream vacation or just sparked your interest, give Trippin' with Jamie a call! We look forward to hearing about how we can help you book a trip for you and your family.
Riding solo on a large horse, uneven terrain that is difficult to navigate with a wheelchair, stairs up to a porch that opens into a cozy (read small and not wheelchair accessible) cabin...what makes dude ranches most attractive also is the major turn-off for families with special needs.
However, if a dude ranch has always been on your bucket list, or you just started reading this post and are now hooked, here are two destinations that are dedicated to helping families with special needs enjoy a dude ranch vacation with the whole family.
STAGECOACH TRAILS RANCH
The vision behind this Arizona dude ranch came from a family who had a daughter in a wheelchair. Because of their personal experience with their daughter, the entire ranch is handicapped accessible. The ranch is set up like an old western town but with plenty of modern adaptations to make it accessible for all guests. Every room and bathroom is accessible with a roll-in shower or ADA tub and hand-held shower. All common areas in the lodge and dining room are wide open and easy to navigate in a wheelchair. Horseback riding is offered, and the ranch offers a variety of accommodations for disabilities, such as a mounting ramp for wheelchairs and adaptive equipment. In addition, all wrangles are familiar with therapeutic riding and the horses are evaluated for the proper temperament. Side walkers or a double rider can be provided for riders with balance issues. The pool is accessible and a chair lift provides easy transitions from chair to the water. In the dining room, the chef is willing to accommodate special dietary requirements with advance knowledge. Bonfires, sing-a-longs, and stargazing are just some more of the activities that give guests a rustic dude ranch experience.
SUNDANCE TRAIL GUEST RANCH
Located in Colorado, this dude ranch provides a smaller feel than some of the larger guest resorts. Accommodating only 24 guests at a time, this ranch offers an intimate atmosphere without skimping on the activities. Completely wheelchair accessible and in partnership with a local medical supplier, Sundance aims to provide families with special needs any accommodations they can to allow every family a great vacation. The chefs are comfortable and familiar with accommodating a variety of special diet requirements including, gluten free, vegan, and various allergies. Advance notification is requested to provide each guest with a variety of options each meal. Another unique feature is their accommodation of the four legged family members as well. Well mannered dogs and horses are welcomed along with the human guests to allow the whole family a fun trip.
If either of these sound like your dream vacation or just sparked your interest, give Trippin' with Jamie a call! We look forward to hearing about how we can help you book a trip for you and your family.
Thursday, July 16, 2015
Not Just Special Needs
If you've been following the Trippin' with Jamie facebook page, THANK YOU!
If you've just stumbled onto this blog, check us out on Facebook and "like" us (please?).
However you found us, we are glad you did! And we want you to know that we want to help you book your next trip. I know...shocker...a travel agent that wants to help you book travel...
So if you have been reading our special needs posts THANK YOU and please continue to spread the word. But -- we are all special and we all have needs, so Trippin' with Jamie is able to help with all your vacation planning, from the quick weekend getaway, to that bucket list cruise to the romantic honeymoon.
In just the past year Trippin' with Jamie has found exceptional hotel values for business travel, planned a multi-generational graduation trip, helped clients enjoy an all-inclusive honeymoon in Mexico, booked a river cruise in Europe, and more!
Whatever you may be planning next, think of us first.
Give us a call and let Trippin' with Jamie go to work for you. All you have to do is enjoy your trip.
For a limited time, refer a friend and get an Amazon gift card! When the friend books through Trippin' with Jamie and leaves on their trip, you get the gift!
If you've just stumbled onto this blog, check us out on Facebook and "like" us (please?).
However you found us, we are glad you did! And we want you to know that we want to help you book your next trip. I know...shocker...a travel agent that wants to help you book travel...
So if you have been reading our special needs posts THANK YOU and please continue to spread the word. But -- we are all special and we all have needs, so Trippin' with Jamie is able to help with all your vacation planning, from the quick weekend getaway, to that bucket list cruise to the romantic honeymoon.
In just the past year Trippin' with Jamie has found exceptional hotel values for business travel, planned a multi-generational graduation trip, helped clients enjoy an all-inclusive honeymoon in Mexico, booked a river cruise in Europe, and more!
Whatever you may be planning next, think of us first.
Give us a call and let Trippin' with Jamie go to work for you. All you have to do is enjoy your trip.
For a limited time, refer a friend and get an Amazon gift card! When the friend books through Trippin' with Jamie and leaves on their trip, you get the gift!
Thursday, July 2, 2015
Autism Friendly Vacation Spots
Trippin' with Jamie understands that planning vacations is not always easy. There are so many variables and moving pieces, it can seem overwhelming. Add in a family member with autism and the challenges become even more complicated. While traveling with special needs may never be easy, the travel industry has been slowly changing to better accommodate families that may require a bit more planning and preparation. We want to highlight a few vacation destinations that have committed to not just accommodating families dealing with autism, but to helping them have the best vacation possible.
Tradewinds Resort:
Located at St. Pete's Beach on the Gulf of Mexico in Florida, this resort provides a great autism-friendly destination without the need for a passport. Going above and beyond for families with special needs, all the staff have been through the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities training and Tradewinds has been designated an Autism Friendly business. Families dealing with autism can request a "safety kit" that provides a door alarm and corner cushions to keep all family members safe. The resort is equipped to handle a variety of special diets and are willing to work with families to make sure everyone is accommodated. The children's program has sensory activities for children with autism and a variety of drop-off programs to allow parents some alone time.
Franklyn D. Resort and Spa:
An all-inclusive located in Jamaica, this resort has been recognized as a top travel destination for families with special needs. Upon arrival, each family is assigned a "nanny" for the entire trip. The nanny is available from 9:00 am until 4:30 pm and can be hired for longer if parents would like an evening out. These nannies can provide an extra set of eyes and hands to allow families to enjoy their vacation and give parents some room to relax. During down times, the nanny will keep the rooms clean and tidy and allow families to enjoy their vacation. Family suites provide space for everyone to spread out and relax, but also keep parents close enough to keep an eye on everyone.
Disney:
Disney has been recognized for years for their impeccable service and willingness to go above and beyond for their guests. This mentality does not waver when it comes to families dealing with autism. For families dealing with autism, Disney offers the Disability Access Service Card that allows families to avoid waiting in long lines. If there is a wait of more than 10 minutes for a ride, the attendant will give the DASC holder a return time which allows the family to wait in the shade, go indoors, or enjoy other aspects of the park. In addition, there are multiple break areas located throughout the park to provide a quiet area for relief from over-stimulation. Companion restrooms are also available in select locations which allow the family member with autism to be accompanied in the restroom if assistance is required.
For families dealing with dietary restrictions, Disney has been known to be one of the most accommodating vacation destinations. While the restaurants in the parks and at the resort are able to accommodate most allergies and restrictions, Disney allows guests with special needs to bring in food as needed. In addition, the hotels located at the resort have staff trained and accommodations in place to help accommodate families with special needs. Easy access to the parks and the ability to take breaks mid-day are only some of the benefits staying at the resort offers.
Royal Caribbean Cruises:
The first to offer Autism Friendly Cruising, Royal Caribbean has become a fantastic vacation choice for families with a family member with autism. All youth staff are specially trained on how to best accommodate children with autism, and there are a variety of additional services available for these special needs families. Priority check-in, boarding, and departure allow for families to avoid large crowds and noise, and the cruise staff are capable of handling a wide range of dietary accommodations.
New in 2014, the cruises have started offering autism friendly movies in a low sensory environment with the ability to move around as needed. A toy lending program as well as autism friendly activities are also available to give families multiple options of fun things to do with the entire family. For children ages 3-11, the youth programs allow children with autism to be placed in ability-appropriate groups rather than by age.
Smugglers' Notch Resort:
Located in Vermont, this 4-seasons resort can be a great vacation destination in any weather for families that have a family member with special needs. Specially trained staff are experienced in a variety of special needs including, decreased mobility and autism spectrum disorders, and are willing to work with families to provide the best possible experience.
This resort has a program called the Smugglers' Notch Adaptive Program that focuses on providing vacation activities for children and adults with special needs and their families. In the summer, the program offers swimming, water slides, hiking, crafts, kayaking, horseback riding, rock climbing, sing-alongs, and more. Children are able to also attend the children's programming with assistance or can be one-on-one by trained staff. All activities are tailored to the individual and they are able to do as little or as much as possible.
In the winter, the Adaptive Program offers children and adults the opportunity to learn to ski or snowboard with the assistance of specially trained instructors. Students can be taught one-on-one or with two or more additional instructors if needed. They can also take participate in regular lessons with extra assistance from one of the adaptive instructors. Smugglers' Notch provides adaptive equipment which includes mono-skis, bi-skis, a slider, and snowboarding options.
We hope these vacation destinations has sparked your interest! A variety of options for whatever floats your boat (although if you're not interested in cruising, maybe think about a mountain resort or all-inclusive)! We want to help you find the best option for your family, so give us a call! Maybe one of these is shouting your name, or maybe you have a dream destination you've been wishing you could make work. Either way, give us a call and let us help you plan your next (or first) trip!
Tradewinds Resort:
Located at St. Pete's Beach on the Gulf of Mexico in Florida, this resort provides a great autism-friendly destination without the need for a passport. Going above and beyond for families with special needs, all the staff have been through the Center for Autism and Related Disabilities training and Tradewinds has been designated an Autism Friendly business. Families dealing with autism can request a "safety kit" that provides a door alarm and corner cushions to keep all family members safe. The resort is equipped to handle a variety of special diets and are willing to work with families to make sure everyone is accommodated. The children's program has sensory activities for children with autism and a variety of drop-off programs to allow parents some alone time.
Franklyn D. Resort and Spa:
An all-inclusive located in Jamaica, this resort has been recognized as a top travel destination for families with special needs. Upon arrival, each family is assigned a "nanny" for the entire trip. The nanny is available from 9:00 am until 4:30 pm and can be hired for longer if parents would like an evening out. These nannies can provide an extra set of eyes and hands to allow families to enjoy their vacation and give parents some room to relax. During down times, the nanny will keep the rooms clean and tidy and allow families to enjoy their vacation. Family suites provide space for everyone to spread out and relax, but also keep parents close enough to keep an eye on everyone.
Disney:
Disney has been recognized for years for their impeccable service and willingness to go above and beyond for their guests. This mentality does not waver when it comes to families dealing with autism. For families dealing with autism, Disney offers the Disability Access Service Card that allows families to avoid waiting in long lines. If there is a wait of more than 10 minutes for a ride, the attendant will give the DASC holder a return time which allows the family to wait in the shade, go indoors, or enjoy other aspects of the park. In addition, there are multiple break areas located throughout the park to provide a quiet area for relief from over-stimulation. Companion restrooms are also available in select locations which allow the family member with autism to be accompanied in the restroom if assistance is required.
For families dealing with dietary restrictions, Disney has been known to be one of the most accommodating vacation destinations. While the restaurants in the parks and at the resort are able to accommodate most allergies and restrictions, Disney allows guests with special needs to bring in food as needed. In addition, the hotels located at the resort have staff trained and accommodations in place to help accommodate families with special needs. Easy access to the parks and the ability to take breaks mid-day are only some of the benefits staying at the resort offers.
Royal Caribbean Cruises:
The first to offer Autism Friendly Cruising, Royal Caribbean has become a fantastic vacation choice for families with a family member with autism. All youth staff are specially trained on how to best accommodate children with autism, and there are a variety of additional services available for these special needs families. Priority check-in, boarding, and departure allow for families to avoid large crowds and noise, and the cruise staff are capable of handling a wide range of dietary accommodations.
New in 2014, the cruises have started offering autism friendly movies in a low sensory environment with the ability to move around as needed. A toy lending program as well as autism friendly activities are also available to give families multiple options of fun things to do with the entire family. For children ages 3-11, the youth programs allow children with autism to be placed in ability-appropriate groups rather than by age.
Smugglers' Notch Resort:
Located in Vermont, this 4-seasons resort can be a great vacation destination in any weather for families that have a family member with special needs. Specially trained staff are experienced in a variety of special needs including, decreased mobility and autism spectrum disorders, and are willing to work with families to provide the best possible experience.
This resort has a program called the Smugglers' Notch Adaptive Program that focuses on providing vacation activities for children and adults with special needs and their families. In the summer, the program offers swimming, water slides, hiking, crafts, kayaking, horseback riding, rock climbing, sing-alongs, and more. Children are able to also attend the children's programming with assistance or can be one-on-one by trained staff. All activities are tailored to the individual and they are able to do as little or as much as possible.
In the winter, the Adaptive Program offers children and adults the opportunity to learn to ski or snowboard with the assistance of specially trained instructors. Students can be taught one-on-one or with two or more additional instructors if needed. They can also take participate in regular lessons with extra assistance from one of the adaptive instructors. Smugglers' Notch provides adaptive equipment which includes mono-skis, bi-skis, a slider, and snowboarding options.
We hope these vacation destinations has sparked your interest! A variety of options for whatever floats your boat (although if you're not interested in cruising, maybe think about a mountain resort or all-inclusive)! We want to help you find the best option for your family, so give us a call! Maybe one of these is shouting your name, or maybe you have a dream destination you've been wishing you could make work. Either way, give us a call and let us help you plan your next (or first) trip!
Monday, June 29, 2015
10 Things to Avoid Saying to your Travel Agent
I'm sure we've all read at least one of those "Ten things your plumber want you to know" or "Top ten cat breeds for non-cat owners." This is a list that we adapted from a post we read and customized it for Trippin' with Jamie!
1) "I saw this trip for cheap on Groupon!"
Yes, you probably did. But did you look at the fine print? These deals often have blackout dates and other limitations on when you can travel, some are within a certain date of booking. Says it includes airfare? It might, but it's for a 2-layover flight from Houston to Mexico City and you live in DC. Tips, excursions, drinks, not included. Many times even trips that are advertised as all-inclusive still have limitations that would not otherwise apply if you booked through a travel agent. There is a reason the trips advertised on Groupon are so cheap.
2) "Why should I use Trippin' with Jamie when I can just book it online myself?"
If you're talking about ONLY domestic airfare, you're right. Those prices are fixed and a travel agent cannot provide much added benefit. However, if you're flying to a destination and then need a hotel or resort, rental car, excursions, or any other add-ons, using a travel agent CAN provide extra assistance. Trippin' with Jamie are your travel experts. Just like you are perfectly capable of filing your own taxes, many people still choose to use a tax accountant to make sure everything is done properly and nothing slips through the cracks. A travel agent is an expert in the field of travel. We make sure you get the most value for your money and that nothing slips through the cracks. Are you capable of booking your trips online on your own? Yes. But give us the chance to use our expertise to help you maximize the value of your trip and take care of the little details.
3) "I get a discount because we're friends, right?"
Remember, Trippin' with Jamie does not change anything extra to help you plan your trip. While there may be a booking fee for complicated itineraries, that fee will go toward the total cost of the trip. When we book you a trip, the commission that normally would go back to the companies providing your services comes to us as your agent. We do not charge you extra for our services, and because of that, if we were to give a discount, we would have to cover the difference ourselves. We are often able to find you better value than you might on your own because we have access to agent-only deals, so consider that our gift to you!
4) "I am willing to spend $XXX on airfare and no more."
Okay, we will do what we can to find you a flight for that price, but sometimes what we want is not available. Flights with layovers are typically cheaper than non-stop which can save money. Being flexible with departure or destination cities can also provide options to help you save money. However, if you want a non-stop flight from a specific city to your dream destination, there is only so much we can do.
5) "Do you travel all the time?"
We do enjoy traveling! If we didn't like to travel we wouldn't be in the business! That being said, no, we are not taking your calls from a beach resort in the Caribbean. We spend our time in front of a computer focused on our search engines to find you the best deals. Many times we get ideas for our own travel based on the trips that we book for you!
6) "My dream trip is a cruise around Australia and New Zealand with a stop in Hawaii on the way home. I want everything included, and I can spend $3000 total for a family of 5."
Good luck. We are travel agents, and we will do our best to find you the best deal, but we cannot create discounts that are not realistic. If your dream trip and your budget don't line up, then you either need to adjust your expectations or save for a bit longer. We want to help you, but we have not yet found the destination where money grows on trees. Until then, we can only do so much.
7) "I just want the cheapest price."
We are not looking to up-sell you or try to get you to spend more money for no reason. If we suggest something that may not necessarily be the cheapest options, ask us why. Remember, Trippin' with Jamie is about the best VALUE for your money. The cheapest hotel may have really bad reviews, a bed bug problem, and be in a bad part of town. If you're looking for the lowest price, we can certainly book it for you, but there might be another hotel 5 minutes away for not much more that is a much nicer option. We want you to enjoy your trip, so we are looking for value that fits in your budget.
8) "All these custom fees, tips, and luggage charges are ridiculous. There's no way I'm paying that!"
If you don't want to pay luggage fees, don't check a bag. If you don't want to pay daily resort tips, don't choose an all-inclusive resort. If you don't want to pay customs fees, don't travel internationally. There are certain fees in the travel industry that are non-negotiable. We do not set them and cannot change them. The airlines, resorts, and countries set these fees. If you don't want to have to pay these extras, you will need to choose a trip that avoids them.
9) "Can I have your personal cell number so I can contact you whenever anything goes wrong?"
We want you to have the best vacation possible, and we will do everything we can during the planning to ensure your trip goes smoothly. However, we realize that things can go wrong. Trippin' with Jamie will give you an emergency number that can be used to contact us if there are major problems. However, please do not call us for every little issue. Remember, when you are on vacation, you are onsite. We are still in our home office. We want to help as much as we can, but often it is easier for you to talk with the hotel manager yourself.
10) "Thanks for your help in planning! I'm going to book it online tonight."
While we are glad to help and want you to have the vacation you dreamed of, please recognize that at Trippin' with Jamie, our only income comes from booking trips. If you are not going to book through us, we lose money helping you plan since we are taking time away from other clients. The travel industry is a difficult business since there are so many options available to the general public online. If that is the way you would like to book your trip, you are free to do so. But please do not waste our time asking us to spend time to research options for you, then go book elsewhere.
Of course, there is one thing we always want to hear: "Book'em Dano (Jamie)!"
1) "I saw this trip for cheap on Groupon!"
Yes, you probably did. But did you look at the fine print? These deals often have blackout dates and other limitations on when you can travel, some are within a certain date of booking. Says it includes airfare? It might, but it's for a 2-layover flight from Houston to Mexico City and you live in DC. Tips, excursions, drinks, not included. Many times even trips that are advertised as all-inclusive still have limitations that would not otherwise apply if you booked through a travel agent. There is a reason the trips advertised on Groupon are so cheap.
2) "Why should I use Trippin' with Jamie when I can just book it online myself?"
If you're talking about ONLY domestic airfare, you're right. Those prices are fixed and a travel agent cannot provide much added benefit. However, if you're flying to a destination and then need a hotel or resort, rental car, excursions, or any other add-ons, using a travel agent CAN provide extra assistance. Trippin' with Jamie are your travel experts. Just like you are perfectly capable of filing your own taxes, many people still choose to use a tax accountant to make sure everything is done properly and nothing slips through the cracks. A travel agent is an expert in the field of travel. We make sure you get the most value for your money and that nothing slips through the cracks. Are you capable of booking your trips online on your own? Yes. But give us the chance to use our expertise to help you maximize the value of your trip and take care of the little details.
3) "I get a discount because we're friends, right?"
Remember, Trippin' with Jamie does not change anything extra to help you plan your trip. While there may be a booking fee for complicated itineraries, that fee will go toward the total cost of the trip. When we book you a trip, the commission that normally would go back to the companies providing your services comes to us as your agent. We do not charge you extra for our services, and because of that, if we were to give a discount, we would have to cover the difference ourselves. We are often able to find you better value than you might on your own because we have access to agent-only deals, so consider that our gift to you!
4) "I am willing to spend $XXX on airfare and no more."
Okay, we will do what we can to find you a flight for that price, but sometimes what we want is not available. Flights with layovers are typically cheaper than non-stop which can save money. Being flexible with departure or destination cities can also provide options to help you save money. However, if you want a non-stop flight from a specific city to your dream destination, there is only so much we can do.
5) "Do you travel all the time?"
We do enjoy traveling! If we didn't like to travel we wouldn't be in the business! That being said, no, we are not taking your calls from a beach resort in the Caribbean. We spend our time in front of a computer focused on our search engines to find you the best deals. Many times we get ideas for our own travel based on the trips that we book for you!
6) "My dream trip is a cruise around Australia and New Zealand with a stop in Hawaii on the way home. I want everything included, and I can spend $3000 total for a family of 5."
Good luck. We are travel agents, and we will do our best to find you the best deal, but we cannot create discounts that are not realistic. If your dream trip and your budget don't line up, then you either need to adjust your expectations or save for a bit longer. We want to help you, but we have not yet found the destination where money grows on trees. Until then, we can only do so much.
7) "I just want the cheapest price."
We are not looking to up-sell you or try to get you to spend more money for no reason. If we suggest something that may not necessarily be the cheapest options, ask us why. Remember, Trippin' with Jamie is about the best VALUE for your money. The cheapest hotel may have really bad reviews, a bed bug problem, and be in a bad part of town. If you're looking for the lowest price, we can certainly book it for you, but there might be another hotel 5 minutes away for not much more that is a much nicer option. We want you to enjoy your trip, so we are looking for value that fits in your budget.
8) "All these custom fees, tips, and luggage charges are ridiculous. There's no way I'm paying that!"
If you don't want to pay luggage fees, don't check a bag. If you don't want to pay daily resort tips, don't choose an all-inclusive resort. If you don't want to pay customs fees, don't travel internationally. There are certain fees in the travel industry that are non-negotiable. We do not set them and cannot change them. The airlines, resorts, and countries set these fees. If you don't want to have to pay these extras, you will need to choose a trip that avoids them.
9) "Can I have your personal cell number so I can contact you whenever anything goes wrong?"
We want you to have the best vacation possible, and we will do everything we can during the planning to ensure your trip goes smoothly. However, we realize that things can go wrong. Trippin' with Jamie will give you an emergency number that can be used to contact us if there are major problems. However, please do not call us for every little issue. Remember, when you are on vacation, you are onsite. We are still in our home office. We want to help as much as we can, but often it is easier for you to talk with the hotel manager yourself.
10) "Thanks for your help in planning! I'm going to book it online tonight."
While we are glad to help and want you to have the vacation you dreamed of, please recognize that at Trippin' with Jamie, our only income comes from booking trips. If you are not going to book through us, we lose money helping you plan since we are taking time away from other clients. The travel industry is a difficult business since there are so many options available to the general public online. If that is the way you would like to book your trip, you are free to do so. But please do not waste our time asking us to spend time to research options for you, then go book elsewhere.
Of course, there is one thing we always want to hear: "Book'em Dano (Jamie)!"
Things Trippin' with Jamie Wants You To Know About Special Needs Travel
Here at Trippin' with Jamie, our main focus is on helping families with special needs take trips that they may have thought impossible. We do our best to make each trip special, and here are some things we want you to know!
1) We can't make it easy, but we can make it easier.
Anyone who tells you that traveling with special needs is easy has obviously never traveled with special needs. Our goal as your travel agent is to get to know you and your needs. We want to help you plan your trip and anticipate any potential problems so they can be avoided.
2) Know your limits and be realistic.
This goes for anyone traveling, but especially families with special needs. If your child can only manage 4 hours of school before having sensory overload, do not plan to cover Magic Kingdom in a day. You can always add more activities, but a physical or mental breakdown can derail an entire trip. Make sure to schedule rest breaks, plan for the weather (hot, cold, rainy, etc.), and be flexible.
3) Look for value not cost.
This is one of the key vacation planning tips for special needs families. There will always be something cheaper. Instead of focusing on strictly cost, look at what you are getting. Yes, hotels further from Disney are cheaper, but if you have a wheelchair, coolers, medications, and emergency information to carry, is it worth it to use valuable energy just packing and getting to the park? Plus, if you are planning to take rest breaks during the day, staying offsite adds more energy zapping travel to and from. Consider the needs of your family and ask us what options are available. We want you to get the most value for your spending, so ask us how you can save while still getting top value.
4) Be prepared to travel with your special need.
We don't mean packing supplies, we mean be mentally prepared. Whether this is your first vacation as a family or the first since a diagnosis, traveling with a special need can require mental preparation as well as physical. While vacations are often used to escape everyday life, there is no escaping your disability or illness. Recognize that your special need will be coming too and be prepared. It may not be the dream trip you always imagined or the same as vacations used to be before getting sick, but it can still be a great time away as long as you adjust your expectations.
5) Relax and have fun!
Easier said than done, we know, but try! You want this to be a great trip and it can be, just relax. By doing your research up front and allowing Trippin' with Jamie to handle the details, you are free to focus on making memories with your family. Know that things may not be perfect for the whole trip but decide to enjoy whatever comes. Traveling with special needs can be unpredictable, but embracing each moment and celebrating small victories can make any trip special.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)