West Palm Beach May 2026

14 W E S T PA L M B E A C H | M AY 2 0 2 6 COMMUNITY – Submitted by Dee Egizio, Travel Advisor – THE TRUTH ABOUT “PAYING EXTRA” TO USE A TRAVEL ADVISOR Let’s clear the air. One of the most common things I hear from travelers is this: “I’d love to use a travel advisor, but I don’t want to pay extra.” I understand where that belief comes from—but it’s simply not how the travel industry works. Here’s the truth most consumers are never told. YOU’RE ALREADY PAYING FOR A TRAVEL ADVISOR—WHETHER YOU USE ONE OR NOT When you book directly with a cruise line, safari operator, tour company, or resort, you are not getting a “cheaper” price . The price you see—on their website, on Expedia, or on Booking.com— already includes a 10–20% commission that is built into the supplier’s published rate. That commission exists to compensate a travel agency. So when you book “direct,” here’s what actually happens: • You pay the same price • The supplier keeps the commission • You receive little to no support or advocacy that the commission was designed to pay for In other words, you’re paying for the service anyway —you’re just choosing not to receive it. BOOKING DIRECT ≠ BETTER SERVICE Many travelers assume booking directly gives them priority or better treatment. In reality, the opposite is often true. When you book directly: • You are one reservation among thousands • You’re handled by a call center or automated system • If something goes wrong, you’re on hold, sent to email queues, or instructed to “check the app” And when disruptions happen—weather delays, cancellations, overbookings, itinerary changes— you are on your own. A supplier’s job is to protect their bottom line. A travel advisor’s job is to protect you. WHAT A GOOD TRAVEL ADVISOR ACTUALLY DOES A professional travel advisor doesn’t just “book trips.” We bring experience, industry knowledge, and relationships that consumers simply don’t have access to. Here’s what that looks like in real life: ADVOCACY WHEN IT MATTERS When flights cancel, cabins change, or plans unravel, we don’t wait on hold—we call our dedicated partner contacts . We escalate problems and get solutions faster because we have longstanding relationships and leverage. INSIDER KNOWLEDGE We know: • Which cruise cabins to avoid (and which are hidden gems) • Which safari lodges deliver, and which disappoint • Which resorts are worth the price— and which just photograph well Websites don’t tell you that. Experience does. ADDED VALUE YOU CAN’T DIY Through our partnerships, clients often receive: • Shipboard or resort credits • Room upgrades (when available) • Private transfers • Welcome amenities • Exclusive shore excursions or experiences Straight Talk From A Travel Advisor