If you’ve ever dreamed of Ireland, now is a great time to make plans and save money in the process!  CIE Tours, one of Ireland’s leading tour operators, is offering a discount of $150 per couple on any tour of 9 days or longer for bookings made in April.

Ireland’s weather pattern is similar to the weather in Seattle so May through September is the most pleasant time to travel.  You’ll have longer days, more sunshine and lots of that lovely emerald green.  The blarney stone, castles and leprechauns are available year ‘round!

Jennefer is Totem Travel’s Europe Expert, so call or email Jennefer@totemtravel.com and get yourself to Ireland!

Bora Bora Lagoon Resort, a long time favorite in Tahiti, is now offering every 3^rd night free with free breakfast!  The Bora Bora Lagoon Resort is a member of the Orient- Express group and has received numerous awards including a place on Conde Nast Traveler’s “World’s Best Place to Stay” gold list in 2008 and 4 of the previous 5 years.

Snorkeling at the Bora Bora Lagoon Resort is excellent, the treetop spa is particularly lovely and the resort location provides convenient access to main island restaurants, shops and activities.  Overall an excellent choice for a honeymoon or romantic island getaway! Contact Totem Travel’s Tahiti Specialist for more information at (800) 321-7907 or linda@totemtravel.com.

Thinking about a graduation trip to Europe? Want to see all the best sights but aren’t in to backpacking or youth hostels?  Like to travel with a knowledgeable tour guide, but not with a bunch of seniors?  Contiki has a huge range of escorted tours specifically designed for 18-35 year olds and right now they are offering $100 off a few specific European tours. 

Spanish Spree – April 18 (Start Madrid April 19)
European Encounter – April 24 (Depart London April 26)
European Impressions – April 28 (Depart London April 30)
European Vista – May 9 (Depart London on May 11)

These tours bring together young people from all over the world who want to explore the world.  So get away with people your own age and save bank!  Call or email Jennefer@totemtravel.com for more information.

Several times a week we are asked “why would I work with a travel agent?” and even more often “what does it cost to work with a travel agent?”

The first question reflects the huge array of travel information, hotel reviews, pictures and prices found online.  Given the sheer volume of information available 24/7, the many excellent price comparison services, and the fact that Google has organized it so beautifully, it’s not surprising to be asked why a travel agent would be useful.

The second question follows because we naturally assume that getting personal service from a professional will cost more than doing it ourselves.  After all, a trip to Home Depot takes some time but it’s a heck of a lot cheaper than calling a plumber or an electrician.  Right?

Well that’s not always the case when you work with a professional travel agent.  In fact their services are often free. So, when should you call a travel agent and when should you do it yourself?

If you’re not sure what you want, have questions, want an unbiased opinion from a professional, are planning an important or complex trip, are short on time, have special needs, are headed to a new destination or just want help sorting through all the information and options, call or email a travel agent that specializes in your destination.

Most travel agencies, including Totem Travel, do not charge service fees for booking vacation packages, honeymoons and cruises and the best travel agents will shop every possible source including online services, packages, specials and wholesalers to find the best deal for you.  In fact, if a lower price is offered after purchase, a travel agent can often assist with a price match or adjustment.

Totem Travel and other travel agencies may charge a trip planning fee to prepare a complex, customized itinerary.  However that fee usually applies to the trip cost.  So it is not an extra cost, rather a protection of a professional’s time and advice should no reservations be made.

Many travel agents no longer sell airline tickets or make car reservations unless in connection with accommodations or other services.  Some agencies still provide these services but charge service fees.  So if you’re buying an airline ticket or just need a car, by all means pick your favorite online travel source and do it yourself.

If you are planning a vacation or honeymoon and want the best possible price plus advice from an expert, look for a travel agent that specializes in your destination and share your ideas.  This is one of the few situations that you can get personal service from a professional without paying a penny extra… It’s the best travel deal going!

Totem Travel specializes in honeymoons, all inclusive resorts, Europe, Tahiti, Fiji and Australia.  We hope you contact us before your next vacation!  Linda linda@totemtravel.com