Claire Walton
Throughout this year, many people have put their travel plans on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As the new year approaches, the idea of traveling is becoming more of a reality—especially by mid to late 2021, when a COVID-19 vaccine is expected to be widely available.
If you are unsure about making travel plans—either internationally or domestically—using a travel consultant can provide some peace of mind. Claire Walton, travel consultant with Palm Travel Group, provides some guidance.
SG Insider: Should people be concerned about travel next year?
Walton: During the COVID era, travelers need to be aware of the various travel restrictions by country, state, and sometimes even each local county. Working with a travel advisor will alleviate the stress of keeping us with travel rules and regulations. Your travel advisor will make sure you have the up-to-date protocols, so you can travel to your destination safely and prepared.
SG Insider: When should people start planning for travel next year?
Walton: If you are excited to take a vacation in 2021, now is the time to plan. Many people who had vacations planned for 2020 have already transferred their itineraries to dates in 2021. With social distancing and limited capacity, availability may also be limited. Many of our vendors are also offering lower deposits with flexibility in changes and cancellations. Destinations, travel companies, airlines, and cruise lines all want the world to start moving and traveling again. So let’s get planning!
SG Insider: How can a travel consultant make planning easier?
Walton: Travel advisors can take the stress out of planning so that you can go on vacation without worries. We help clients determine the best vacation to fit their travel ideas and budget and then take care of the rest. We handle booking and managing the ins and outs of your vacation. Then when it is time to go, we make sure you have all of the necessary paperwork and information to make your trip stress-free. We are also available while you travel. We have access directly to the travel vendors. If anything goes astray, we handle it. We are your personal concierge from the minute you contact us and say, “I think I want to go on vacation,” until you return home safe and sound. So, the question isn’t why should you use a travel advisor, but why wouldn’t you? We plan, you pack!
Claire Walton
