Do you have any travel destinations across the globe on your bucket list but worry about the challenges and risks of making international bookings?
Travel agents not only “take the pain out of planning,” they often have the full support of local “boots on the ground” guides and drivers, according to Paula Hiuser, owner of New Hampshire-based Epic Global Adventures.
“They know how to navigate local customs and make sure we find all the best local places,” she said.
When possible, Hiuser said her clients stay at family-owned hotels and lodges and support local businesses.
“We also design tailor-made private adventures for couples, families, or friends who would like to travel together,” she added. “Our tailor-made trips have taken families on safari, to the Galapagos, Machu Pichu, and throughout Europe.”
For those unsure about global travel, Karen Giaquinta of Absolutely Love Travel, based out of Bow, said the Internet is not always the best source for accurate information.
“Some of (the information) can be misleading,” she said. “I have contacts for people for most destinations so if something is going on there, I can find out if this is a safe place to be. What you hear on the news isn’t the whole story.”
According to Hiuser, the whole story cannot be experienced in large group travel, which is why she limits her small group adventures to 16 people.
“We do not do mass tourism,” she said.
In addition to believing that authentic and intimate group sizes are best, Hiuser said she believes tourism can be a force for good.
“We partner with operators who are committed to sustainable and ethical practices, and we look for zero single use plastics, zero tolerance on exploitation of women, children, and animals,” she noted. “We support local business, national parks and anti-poaching initiatives and cooperatives that educate and employ local people.”
In terms of price, Giaquinta said it does not cost more to book with a travel agency. She said you also get a higher level of service.
“When you book online on an online travel agency, not only are you paying the same amount of fee, but you are not getting the same room quality that you would by booking with a travel agent,” she said.
When booking with her, Giaquinta said she can also process refunds if there are any issues, which is not something that can be performed by a third-party agency.
“You don’t get (this level of service) online if you have an issue,” she said. “It’s not all about the savings but what you are getting by paying the same amount … And I have my cell phone, which is available to text 24/7, so people can contact me if they need me before, during, or after travel.”
This level of service can even extend to booking a cruise or tour that is not with her company, noted Hiuser.
“If a client wants to book with a particular operator, we will happily book them there,” she said. “We also work with river cruises, small ships, and expedition ships ... These companies expect to deal with agents, and the commission is already built in. You pay it whether an agent books it for you or not.”
Regarding her favorite places to travel, Hiuser said she has trouble selecting just one destination.
“Rwanda, Uganda, and the Mountain Gorillas are very special to me,” she said. “Snorkeling in the Galapagos with seals and turtles and marine iguanas was stunning. The Great Migration in the Serengeti and Maasai Mara is iconic — every day was a National Geographic moment.”
Other favorite destinations include Europe, Patagonia, and South and Central America.
“Peru will blow your socks off, too — I could go on and on and on,” she said. “I’ve been to well over 50 countries. I plan to do at least 50 more, and everyone is invited to join me.”
Giaquinta said she is also hard-pressed to pick a preferred destination.
“Morocco is nice, Italy is nice,” she said. “Costa Rica, St. Lucia, Hawaii, Alaska, and the Caribbean are all nice. I really can’t say I have a favorite.”
As for the best time to travel, Giaquinta said her advice is to not hold off.
“Don’t wait because time goes by, we change, and destinations change as well as our abilities,” she said. “It is very important to do it while you can … Don’t put off until tomorrow what you can do today.”
Hiuser agreed and said she offers the following advice to everyone at any age, but particularly for older friends and clients. “Don’t wait — we don’t have forever. Embrace a sense of urgency and get going before your knees give out.”
To learn more about Epic Global Adventures, email Hiuser at paula@epicglobaladventures.com or visit epicglobaladventures.com. To learn more about Absolutely Love Travel, call Giaquinta at 603-227-0634 or visit absolutelylovetravel.4mydeals.com/Home.aspx.