May 2022 - Rebound or lost in Post Pandemic.

I've heard it called "Endemic" - "Post Pandemic" and many other things.  No matter the terminology there is a solid feeling of loss, end of opportunities if one is allowed to believe this.  I refuse to be a victim of the Pandemic regarding my business. The recent Crystal Cruise Bankruptcy filing was a huge kick in the pants, I've submitted my claims for lost commissions.  Pre-pandemic volume with Crystal was strong. I'll never see a penny of the loss, even if they paid 1 cent on the dollar, I'd be happy.  Pay for a nice weekend staycation at the coast or a fun 3 night trip to Las Vegas.   Maybe business will never return to the pre-pandemic levels. It is okay;  what will happed is the few clients that reach out to me will receive over the top personal service.  I'm excited to be prepared for a restart.  Let's talk travel!  

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Systems updated, state of the art software partnerships renewed, suppliers on hand to assist.  My network has never been bigger, suppliers are ready to help enrich your travel.  They say you should always be prepared, I'm just that.  The upside is 2023 has been a very active booking year thus far, downside is only with past loyal clients.  New clients are not reaching out, yet!  

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New client gift line, I've sourced several small locally owned businesses for gifts.  I've realized as a Travel Advisors we often ask why a client is booking on-line or with an imaginary deal with a popular OTA (on-line travel agency).  We have the same deals, plus we don't publish a price that has expired or no longer available as you click through the offer, providing the search bots all your likes & desires regarding travel.  Suddenly offers start appearing automatically in your in-box.  We my dear clients we all need to move past that.  Every time someone tells me they'll book on Expedia I chuckle to myself, being we're an affiliate with same pricing & some private deals should a client prefer discount bookings .  It's all about perception & some misunderstanding.  When we book outside of a discount site, we often have agency specific upgrades or perks we offer when we book in our normal channels.  ​

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Travel Talk: 
I like to talk about the journeys in my future, hopefully inspire you to call me with your future dream journey.

A). I want to explore the new American version of a classic river cruise with the new Viking Ships, ultra sleek offering larger cabins vs tradition cabins, there are still river ships with fixed twin beds on each wall, room equals 125 to 140 sq. ft.  Yet, you move into 2022 with the new modern river cruise ships with king beds, balconies some with double bathrooms.  It's a new era in river cruising.  I like river cruising, the option to take an included shore excursion or walk off the boat into town and be a local for the few hours you're there.  I've had the privilege of taking a few river cruises in Europe, with the newer ships it's becoming even more appealing.  From "virtual balconies" to dual balconies on Vikings newly designed long ships.  

B). After 30 plus years of experiencing Las Vegas, it's time to return for a longer stay.  I've been a loyal fan of MGM properties, both regular rooms and the ultra rooms or "hotel in a hotel" options.  Aria Sky Suites with their personalized transfers, private entrance and lounge you don't get the feeling you're being herded in as quickly (often not so quick) in the check in line so you can get to spending your money.  Heck, you've pretty much started without leaving your private lounge.  Complimentary snacks, non alcoholic beverages plus beer and wines.  Of course the rates warrant the special treatment, the special attention of the housekeepers will blow you away.  The dual bathrooms or even single bathrooms with dual separate vanities, toilet closet, steam room and stand alone tub plus a full shower stall.  My thoughts are leaning now to Vegas World, albeit not 100% on game yet.  The intriguing part for me is my option to select from three hotels, all Hilton family and the most amazing food court or shall we think "food truck court" 5 star chefs including some Michelin Star winners.  I like the option of using a Hilton family property, especially the upscale styles;  I love my points and the upgrades and perks that come with loyalty.  Going back to MGM, I have been at their highest tier for years. Not from gambling, from eating, drinking and shopping at the properties along with my points for the sleeping rooms.  No longer at the highest tier, I'm still a Gold tier member for life or as long as MGM keeps that program alive.  

C). Lastly as a stand alone goal, would be to spend time in Bora Bora, Moorea specifically over the water bungalows resort stay.  Without exploring anymore than the waters and water activities of the resorts.  It's the "chill" experience I really need after the pandemic.  One exception to this would be the option of Island hoping with Paul Gaugin Cruise Line, an absolute 5 star all inclusive experience.  They have one ship, 100% of their attention is with each and every passenger, make no mistake it's attention you so deserve and have earned as an enhancement while on vacation.  

Those are my tops three goals for 2023, if I decide to stay local there isn't a better base or options from the PNW regions.  From two country expeditions to some of the greatest lodges, lakes and small resorts in the country.  If you've never spent time in our region, it's not all Mount Hood or Mount Rainer.  A spectacular wine / culinary adventure awaits your arrival in both Washington and Oregon. 

Choa for now.  Safe travels.  Remember to book your next travel with a travel professional, never leave home without one.  A good travel professional, travels with you being on call the entire time you're enjoying your vacation.  Leave the worries or attention needed items to your travel professional.  

​Michael