I just read that Google Glass will be coming out with an app that will be a virtual travel agent and will interact with potential clients. WOW!
I know that there will be a market for that app. There are a lot of people who love technology and will enjoy using the app.
But, there are also clients who will still want the one-on-one interaction with a real person. There are things that we, as humans, have that even virtual agents cannot touch (no pun intended). We can relate to people and we can form an emotional bond with them. For many, that is the most important aspect of using a travel agent.
Technology is wonderful but there is still something about human interaction that appeals to many. And that will certainly keep my job safe.
Brenda McMillian
Work at home with no cost. Click now.
Monday, April 14, 2014
Thursday, April 10, 2014
Really husbands?
I am amazed at how people think. I was reading a story about a
married man who was videotaped kissing another man’s wife. The husband, whose
wife was on the tape, is upset that the man did not apologize to him for having
an affair with his wife! Are you kidding me? I am confused. It is your wife
that stood before God and man and vowed to be faithful to you. The other man
"does not have a dog in that fight." The other man could care less
about you or your feelings. If he had, he would not have been sleeping with
your wife. You should be upset with your wife for failing to keep her vows to
you. It's her fault when it comes to her husband, just as the cheating husband
should be answering to his wife.
I get so worked up when I hear ladies who
act out/cuss out or want to fight the other woman for "messing with"
their husbands. Please do not get it twisted. No one can do anything that is
not allowed. Stop blaming the other woman and blame your husband. Even if she
pursued him, it is ultimately his fault. After all, he has vowed to be faithful
to you. The other woman did not stand with you at the altar. Nor does she care
anything about you/your home/your family or your feelings.
If we, as women, start putting the blame
on our spouse and stop blaming the other woman, we would do much better in the
long run. In holding our spouse accountable, maybe some of the nonsense of
cheating would be alleviated.
I read an article a couple of weeks ago
that explained that a man cheats to keep the woman he loves from leaving him. I
was "feeling some type of way" until I kept reading. The article,
written by a man, continued that once the main woman finds out that the love of
their life has cheated, she feels as though she needs to stay to
"show" her man that she is better than, more attractive than or a
better lover/person/mother than the woman he cheated with. As twisted as that
may sound, I have actually seen that happen. So I know he is telling the
truth.
A couple of guys tried that on me, many
years ago. In both cases, we were only dating. But for me, in any committed
relationship, that is a deal breaker. Today, both are saddened to see me happy
with my husband, whom I love dearly. They may have had the same type of love
and devotion from me, if they hadn't thought I was like other women they had
dealt with. In both cases, the guys actually thought I was going to
"fight" for them. Oh well, guess that didn't work out well for them.
If you want the foolishness to stop, start
making your mate accountable. Accountability will make others do one of two
things, either straighten up and act right or leave. And, with either decision
they make, we will always be better off.
OK, I am getting off my soap box now and going back to my regular scheduled programming!
Brenda McMillian
Entrepreneur, real estate agent, Vacation Doctor (travel agent), mother, wife, sister and friend.
Wednesday, April 9, 2014
10 Myths About Travel Agents (Part 3)
MYTH 7: Travel Agents are a Waste of Time.
FACT: Although you can find much of the same information that the travel agent
provides for you on your own, you are going to spend a lot of valuable time
doing so. A travel agent can actually save you from hours of painful research
and price comparison shopping. They have up to date prices, hotel conditions,
and interesting new activities. Their prior knowledge and experience gives them
the upper hand in trip planning.
MYTH 8: Travel Agents Have Lost Their Clout.
FACT: Travel agents book hotels, cruises, and activities every day. The companies
that provide these services know that and want their business and will work to
keep that business coming back. So while a place might be telling you “Sorry
we are booked,” for your one time trip, they are more likely to make an exception
for the travel agent to insure that the agent sends them more business in the future.
MYTH 9: The Need for Travel Agents is Being Replaced by the Internet.
FACT: There are some things technology cannot replicate, and personal touch
is one of them. The Internet is a valuable resource, but it cannot replace the
expertise, guidance and personal service of a travel agent. At a time when
travelers are stressed out with hectic schedules, travel agents have all of the
information at their finger tips, saving valuable hours of surfing on the web. Agents
can also offer insider tips, generally based on personal experience.
MYTH 10: Travel Agents Can Only Book My Flight and Hotel.
FACT: Travel agents can arrange car service, personalized tours, activities and
travel insurance, in addition to all the basic travel services they provide. They
are also excellent sources of information concerning good restaurants, good sites
to see, and tips on what to pack.
Tuesday, April 8, 2014
10 Myths About Travel Agents (Part 2)
MYTH 4: It is Expensive to Use a Travel Agent.
FACT: The fee a travel agent charges really depends upon the agent. While
some of the more luxury agencies have higher fees, the average fee is quite
marginal. Some travel agents will even drop the fee or offer a discount once
you have finalized your trip with them. Plus, you can always ask an agent upfront
what their fees are and decide for yourself if it’s worth it. Also, it is important to
remember that a lot of online booking sites, such as Orbitz and Expedia, charge
a booking fee as well.
MYTH 5: I Can Easily Book the Same Trip on My Own Without Using a
Travel Agent.
FACT: Although travel agents have access to all of the same outlets you would
use when looking to book travel, they also have access to exclusive pricing and
package deals that are most times not available to the public. Your travel agent
also has more leverage in helping out in situations such as hotels claiming to be
booked, when in fact they may still have rooms available that are on hold for
travel agents reservations. So when everyone else is telling you “No” your travel
agent can turn that into a "Yes".
MYTH 6: Travel Agents Don’t Have Information as Updated as the Internet.
FACT: Travel agents obtain some of their information from the same sources as
online booking sites. They also receive daily emails and faxes with new specials
from resorts and hotels that may not be published on the internet. Travel agents
can also call a place directly to see if they can work out other kinds of special
deals for you, something an online site can’t do.
When you have a need for a travel agent, let us take care of your travel needs.
Our Travel Doctors will write the prescription you need and deserve. Visit our
website at www.McMillianTravel.com
FACT: The fee a travel agent charges really depends upon the agent. While
some of the more luxury agencies have higher fees, the average fee is quite
marginal. Some travel agents will even drop the fee or offer a discount once
you have finalized your trip with them. Plus, you can always ask an agent upfront
what their fees are and decide for yourself if it’s worth it. Also, it is important to
remember that a lot of online booking sites, such as Orbitz and Expedia, charge
a booking fee as well.
MYTH 5: I Can Easily Book the Same Trip on My Own Without Using a
Travel Agent.
FACT: Although travel agents have access to all of the same outlets you would
use when looking to book travel, they also have access to exclusive pricing and
package deals that are most times not available to the public. Your travel agent
also has more leverage in helping out in situations such as hotels claiming to be
booked, when in fact they may still have rooms available that are on hold for
travel agents reservations. So when everyone else is telling you “No” your travel
agent can turn that into a "Yes".
MYTH 6: Travel Agents Don’t Have Information as Updated as the Internet.
FACT: Travel agents obtain some of their information from the same sources as
online booking sites. They also receive daily emails and faxes with new specials
from resorts and hotels that may not be published on the internet. Travel agents
can also call a place directly to see if they can work out other kinds of special
deals for you, something an online site can’t do.
When you have a need for a travel agent, let us take care of your travel needs.
Our Travel Doctors will write the prescription you need and deserve. Visit our
website at www.McMillianTravel.com
Monday, April 7, 2014
10 Myths About Travel Agents (Part 1)
Information provided by GoGo Worldwide Vacations flyer.
MYTH 1: All Travel Agents and Agencies are the Same.
FACT: Every travel agent is different and has a different area that they specialize
in. So, depending on what type of trip you are looking to take one travel agent
will suit you better than another. That’s why it is important when planning a trip
to find a travel agent that specializes in where you want to go.
MYTH 2: No One Uses Travel Agents Anymore.
FACT: Travel agents still sell 51% of all airline tickets, 87% of all cruises, 81%
of all tours and packages, 45% of all car rentals and about 47% of all hotels.*
MYTH 3: Travel Agents are Trying to Cheat Me if They Don’t Quote Me the
Cheapest Price.
FACT: Travel agents know the ins and outs of different itineraries. While you
might find one that is a little bit cheaper, that cheaper itinerary might involve a
whole slew of headaches. For example, longer waits at the airport and odd
travel times. A travel agent will be looking to get you the best value for your
money spent, which should include the most direct and time friendly itinerary
they can find. Unless you have told them you would prefer to have the cheaper
options presented as well expect value to be a factor included in the trip they plan.
*Source: American Society of Travel Agents
Article was provided by: www.tripology.com
*Source: American Society of Travel Agents
Article was provided by: www.tripology.com
For all your travel needs, call McMillian Travel. We will take good care of you!
Our office hours are Mon-Fri 9:30am-7pm. Or call us at 704-994-8747 ext 1.
Visit us on the web at www.McMillianTravel.com
Thursday, April 3, 2014
Traveling On A Budget
Excerpts from the e-book "101 Tips for Traveling on a Budget"
The key to budget travel is to plan ahead. When it comes to family trips, globetrotting, well-deserved vacations and/or going to see new places we have never been before, the reality of cost and budgeting is always in the back of our minds.
Planning and spending our travel dollar wisely is a priority for most families. Curbing spending and costs, while still enjoying your vacation to its fullest, is the key to guaranteed success and fiscal responsibility. Your pocketbook and family will thank you.
The reason behind saving money while traveling is simple. Even if your personal budget is extremely tight, you can still take a break and enjoy life! Simply put, life is just too short to never step out of the door or leaving the homestead!
Also remembering that while traveling, whether on a budget or not. even the smallest of things can all add up to a large vacation or travel bill!
For example, all those hotel extra's, cab-fares, tips, restaurants, car rentals. for your own vehicle if on a road trip, tickets for special attractions or events, beach-and-pool-side drinks (if not at an all-inclusive resort or cruise) and more, adds on and piles up.
In the coming weeks we will be looking at various tips that will assist you in traveling on a budget.
The first tip the book lists is to : Make a list of some; any or all of the destinations you would like to visit in your lifetime...and then plan to get to at least one this year!
Like anything else in life, travel needs to be planned for somewhat. It is almost like setting a short-(term) "SMART" goal for leisure and vacationing.
So, what type of list do you have? Where would you like to go? Start planning now so that you will be able to visit one of your destinations. If not this year, what about next year? The key is to start planning and budgeting so that you can go to one of the destinations on your list.
Call McMillian Travel. Our travel doctors will write the vacation prescription for what ails you! We will assist you in creating the dream vacation or get-away that you want usually within the realistic budget you are looking for. Don't put it off another year. Start by calling 704-994-8747 ext.1 or go to our website home page and fill out the vacation intake form. Its just that easy. We look forward to working with you on the vacation of your dreams.
The key to budget travel is to plan ahead. When it comes to family trips, globetrotting, well-deserved vacations and/or going to see new places we have never been before, the reality of cost and budgeting is always in the back of our minds.
Planning and spending our travel dollar wisely is a priority for most families. Curbing spending and costs, while still enjoying your vacation to its fullest, is the key to guaranteed success and fiscal responsibility. Your pocketbook and family will thank you.
The reason behind saving money while traveling is simple. Even if your personal budget is extremely tight, you can still take a break and enjoy life! Simply put, life is just too short to never step out of the door or leaving the homestead!
Also remembering that while traveling, whether on a budget or not. even the smallest of things can all add up to a large vacation or travel bill!
For example, all those hotel extra's, cab-fares, tips, restaurants, car rentals. for your own vehicle if on a road trip, tickets for special attractions or events, beach-and-pool-side drinks (if not at an all-inclusive resort or cruise) and more, adds on and piles up.
In the coming weeks we will be looking at various tips that will assist you in traveling on a budget.
The first tip the book lists is to : Make a list of some; any or all of the destinations you would like to visit in your lifetime...and then plan to get to at least one this year!
Like anything else in life, travel needs to be planned for somewhat. It is almost like setting a short-(term) "SMART" goal for leisure and vacationing.
So, what type of list do you have? Where would you like to go? Start planning now so that you will be able to visit one of your destinations. If not this year, what about next year? The key is to start planning and budgeting so that you can go to one of the destinations on your list.
Call McMillian Travel. Our travel doctors will write the vacation prescription for what ails you! We will assist you in creating the dream vacation or get-away that you want usually within the realistic budget you are looking for. Don't put it off another year. Start by calling 704-994-8747 ext.1 or go to our website home page and fill out the vacation intake form. Its just that easy. We look forward to working with you on the vacation of your dreams.
Wednesday, April 2, 2014
Road Trip Travel Tips
Excerpts take from the e-book "101 Tips for Traveling on a Budget"
1. Maximize gas mileage and efficiency. A well-maintained vehicle will go a long way to ensure carefree driving. It is advisable to travel in a small economy car. It could be your own or a rental. However, bear in mind, the smaller the vehicle, the better it will be on gas. Minivans and sport utility vehicles are practical only if you have to transport a large family and lots of equipment or luggage.
2. Keeping yourself and others entertained while on the read is no small task. Music or books on tape or CD..can be a lifesaver. Solo driving can become extremely boring especially when all others have nodded off and all falls silent. However, when you are actively listening, on the edge of your driver's seat so to speak, while listening to a novel or mystery, the time passes by quite quickly.
3. Pack a snack. Bring your own refreshments and snacks. Gas station prices on drinks and sack foods are high. Avoid these during a pit stop if you are counting your travel dollars. A cooler packed with lots of cool drinks, water and ice and/or a thermos of coffee or hot water for tea, some fruit, granola bars, or a sandwich, goes a long way to still the hunger and save you money by avoiding all high priced stops en route.
4. Gas fill-ups. For filling up your car en route, avoid pushing to the limit until the gas runs out or filling up at or in remote locations. The rationale in this statement: gas will obviously be more expensive, the more remote or isolated the station is. If you miscalculate and the light on the dashboard indicates that you are really in need, opt for fulling just half a tank until you reach the next more densely or major populated destination, where gas might be a little cheaper.
5. Travel necessities. It is advisable to be traveling with basic value-add necessities. like a cell phone and a first aid kit. Both can prove to be essential in emergencies.
6. Communication needs. McMillian Travel says: If you do not have a regular cell phone, invest in a prepaid phone. It will save you money in the long run and you will not have to worry about hotel charges if you need to make calls from the hotel. It will also give peace of mind to your family so that they will be able to contact you in case of emergency.
There are many things to think about when planning travel. Let McMillian Travel assist you with your travel plans. Our travel doctor on staff will be able to write the perfect prescription for your travel needs. Call us today at 704-994-8747 ext. 1. What are you waiting for? Let's go somewhere!
1. Maximize gas mileage and efficiency. A well-maintained vehicle will go a long way to ensure carefree driving. It is advisable to travel in a small economy car. It could be your own or a rental. However, bear in mind, the smaller the vehicle, the better it will be on gas. Minivans and sport utility vehicles are practical only if you have to transport a large family and lots of equipment or luggage.
2. Keeping yourself and others entertained while on the read is no small task. Music or books on tape or CD..can be a lifesaver. Solo driving can become extremely boring especially when all others have nodded off and all falls silent. However, when you are actively listening, on the edge of your driver's seat so to speak, while listening to a novel or mystery, the time passes by quite quickly.
3. Pack a snack. Bring your own refreshments and snacks. Gas station prices on drinks and sack foods are high. Avoid these during a pit stop if you are counting your travel dollars. A cooler packed with lots of cool drinks, water and ice and/or a thermos of coffee or hot water for tea, some fruit, granola bars, or a sandwich, goes a long way to still the hunger and save you money by avoiding all high priced stops en route.
4. Gas fill-ups. For filling up your car en route, avoid pushing to the limit until the gas runs out or filling up at or in remote locations. The rationale in this statement: gas will obviously be more expensive, the more remote or isolated the station is. If you miscalculate and the light on the dashboard indicates that you are really in need, opt for fulling just half a tank until you reach the next more densely or major populated destination, where gas might be a little cheaper.
5. Travel necessities. It is advisable to be traveling with basic value-add necessities. like a cell phone and a first aid kit. Both can prove to be essential in emergencies.
6. Communication needs. McMillian Travel says: If you do not have a regular cell phone, invest in a prepaid phone. It will save you money in the long run and you will not have to worry about hotel charges if you need to make calls from the hotel. It will also give peace of mind to your family so that they will be able to contact you in case of emergency.
There are many things to think about when planning travel. Let McMillian Travel assist you with your travel plans. Our travel doctor on staff will be able to write the perfect prescription for your travel needs. Call us today at 704-994-8747 ext. 1. What are you waiting for? Let's go somewhere!
Tuesday, April 1, 2014
Protect Your Travel Investment
There are many people who travel and do not want to pay for travel insurance. They may believe it is a waste of money. However, that is certainly not the case. Travel insurance and trip cancellation insurance are very important and something that should be invested in on every trip you take. It is the best protection you have and the best investment you can make.
When you purchase travel insurance, you will have peace of mind knowing that your investment is taken care of. With the travel insurance I offer to clients, it has a cancel-for-any-reason clause that will insure you do not loose your money if you have to cancel for a reason other than one covered by the regular policy. It also offers medical coverage in case you need to come back home to see your local doctor in case of an accident.
Ask your travel doctor at McMillian Travel about the advantages of travel insurance. We will give you all the details so that you can make an informed decision on purchasing. We can also point out the differences between different coverage options so that you can choose the one to fit your needs.
Call us at 704-994-8747 ext 1 so that we can give you more information on travel insurance. Protect your investment. Unless you have money to give away. If that is the case let me spell my name for the check I would like for you to write to me....
Visit our travel insurance website here..
When you purchase travel insurance, you will have peace of mind knowing that your investment is taken care of. With the travel insurance I offer to clients, it has a cancel-for-any-reason clause that will insure you do not loose your money if you have to cancel for a reason other than one covered by the regular policy. It also offers medical coverage in case you need to come back home to see your local doctor in case of an accident.
Ask your travel doctor at McMillian Travel about the advantages of travel insurance. We will give you all the details so that you can make an informed decision on purchasing. We can also point out the differences between different coverage options so that you can choose the one to fit your needs.
Call us at 704-994-8747 ext 1 so that we can give you more information on travel insurance. Protect your investment. Unless you have money to give away. If that is the case let me spell my name for the check I would like for you to write to me....
Visit our travel insurance website here..
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