Travel Smart, Save Money

It’s time to start making your 2011 holiday travel plans. New sales and promotions have been posted by major airlines, hotels and consolidators. With the popularity of the online travel sites such as Orbitz, Travelocity, Priceline and others, online travel planning has become much easier. But, don’t fall victim to these so called “low prices”.
I have had too many clients that end up spending more than they planned on a vacation because the initial price tag was within or well below their budget. Only to find out just how much the “little things” add up on budget traveling. Although these discount travel sites offer cheap hotels and flights, there are no value incentives included. When using a quality travel site or experienced travel agent for just dollars more(not hundreds) you could have gotten a car rental or roundtrip transfers, free hotel upgrades, 24/7 travel assistance, destination excursions. Very often, these incentives are extra or not offered on discount travel sights, making their prices much cheaper.


For example, a 4 day, 3 night Caribbean getaway to Montego Bay, Jamaica may be priced on Orbitz.com for $584, which includes flight and hotel. But, if you use a full service travel agent or travel consolidator, you may pay $699 but, your package includes flight, luxury hotel, roundtrip transfers and vacation or hotel credits.

People usually don’t think of the little things in travel that add up. For instance, how will you get from the airport to the hotel, or daily food and beverage expenses, sightseeing and more. A typical cab ride and cost at least $20-$40 person one-way. That has already added at least $80 to your vacation. But, this is included in reputable travel sites.

Also, beware of travel agents with hosts agencies. These travel sites and agents may cost you more in the long run because of a lack of knowledge of the travel industry.

I will be posting travel sales and discounts regularly to keep you updated on the best prices and who has the best deals.

For great travel deals and to book travel visit www.officialtravelservices.com. Official Travel Services offers over 10 years of travel industry knowledge and experience. You may research and book travel online, as well as, have an experienced travel agent research and book your travel for you to get the best options and value. Their personal travel agent service is free of charge and no booking or service fees EVER.