Now that borders are fully open in a post-pandemic world, more than likely you still have some questions regarding today’s travel environment. You may be wondering how things have changed since you’ve last traveled internationally. Your questions need answers, and that’s why working with a travel advisor is critical in today’s travel culture.

For those of you who have waited patiently to enjoy traveling freely from one nation to another—unrestricted, uninhibited, and unregulated—your time of liberation has finally come. As of June 12, 2022 at 12:01 AM, all pandemic-era restrictions for US citizens returning from international travel have been lifted!

To inexperienced travelers, the differences between a travel agent and advisor may seem minute and vague. However, the expectations, experiences, knowledge, resources, and connections between the two make all the difference. If you want to purchase tickets quickly online without best planning and service, then self-booking systems and direct purchases with a travel agent or ticket desk are the way for you. On other hand, if you desire quality, best availability, premium choices, expert knowledge, best-in-the-industry rates, personal care, and concierge service, then working with a professional advisor would be your gold standard of travel. You simply can’t get where you want to go in the best possible way without working with an advisor by your side.

Perhaps one of the greatest changes the pandemic left upon the industry is in the day-to-day operations of the travel advisors. For years, advisors have been stuck in a decades-old model that serviced clients with excellence but never charged hourly fees. This concept originally came from the 9-5 office model when travel agents were steadily employed by brick-and-mortars but were not required to provide customized client service. Now that many agents over the last decade have exited the cubicle door, established their own block of clientele, and pivoted their business to functioning as a travel advisor to a niche clientele, they have greatly increased their value and level of service. This change was never reflected in our pricing until the pandemic shined light on just how valuable our services were to the industry. It was way past time to reflect our value and highly sought-after professional services in the way we conducted our business.

As states are slowly beginning to open back up and people are returning to work, the travel industry is also seeing the initial signs of a comeback. Many travelers are disheartened at the loss of their family vacation this year; however, airlines, hotels, cruise lines, and tour operators are doing everything within their power to pick up the pieces from the pandemic of COVID-19.  Travel may look a little different for the next few months, but with a little direction from your luxury travel advisor, you can get out there and enjoy the adventurous world of travel once again.

Congratulations! We’ve made it through one of the most difficult times in history!

If you’re like me, sitting at home with no place to go can only last for a limited amount of time until adventure starts calling again. Thankfully, restrictions are being lifted, and the world of travel is beginning to spin once more. In my home state of Oklahoma, we have now entered into Phase 3 with open businesses, houses of worship, and public places. It’s refreshing to see life reset and resume with resiliency as the summer travel season begins.