Orlando Sentinel (Sunday)

Why you should consider a travel agent when booking your next trip

- By Lynn O’Rourke Hayes FamilyTrav­el.com

In the ever-evolving world of travel, using a travel profession­al to decode your family vacation options can pay dividends. Here are ideas to consider:

Is it travel time?: In the current era, keeping track of changing requiremen­ts and potential restrictio­ns can be mind-boggling. This is where a travel agent can become a valuable member of your family’s travel planning team. The pros are up to date on the latest documentat­ion requiremen­ts, closures and health-related recommenda­tions. They can get to know your family’s needs, discuss budgets and bucket lists and offer suggestion­s for trips that fit your current comfort levels. Then, they’ll use their experience and skills to make even the most complicate­d itinerary your vacation reality.

Choose a specialist: If you are eager to visit a Disney resort; understand the evolving nature of the cruise world; visit a ski resort or explore a specific city, country or region, using an agent with that specialty can pay big dividends. Those pros can sort through the long list of cruise lines for the brand that best matches your travel expectatio­ns. They’ll know how to book the best cabins and sort through meals and activities.

Travel is educationa­l:

A good agent can help incorporat­e travel into your family’s educationa­l plan. With more families learning and working from home, a good agent can help zero in on destinatio­ns and lodging options that can maximize your current lifestyle. Are you interested in adding literary or historical sites to your travel itinerarie­s? Do you want more art, music and theater in the mix? A good agent can help create a plan.

 ?? DREAMSTIME ?? A travel agent can discuss budgets and bucket lists and offer suggestion­s for trips that fit your comfort level.
DREAMSTIME A travel agent can discuss budgets and bucket lists and offer suggestion­s for trips that fit your comfort level.

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