CD Global has been around for many years but we finally decided on a cruise trip…read more
Even with the advent of online booking, there is always a need for a personal touch with a travel agent. I know this sounds very backwards but in essence, it is crucial to be able to receive information as it relates to individual specific needs. Some may argue that the cruise company can provide the information, but they are also very general in what they provide. They may not tailor to specific needs because everyone's itinerary will vary. Online and web booking is definitely convenient and some may assume it is cheaper (it cuts out the need for an agent's commission/fees/overhead). However, in our experience, when we searched online - the pricing came out to be same, and the agent actually offered a little more than the website did. So there you go. BJs and other third-party sites may have also offered some incentives, but after doing the math, it also came out to be the same or slightly under, but the agent won on the side of the offers. And because we used a credit card, we received the cash back/points that way. Also, if the prices for both agent and website came out to be the same, I would rather go to a live person to help with the booking because 1) they have more experience and can help with the efficiencies and details 2) we can always refer back to them with questions 3) they also provide first-hand knowledge as they help set up your itinerary or overall plans. The pros can go on and on. I am actually an avid planner myself in many instances, but to have someone be of assistance in this capacity was pretty amazing! And to even think this service still exists with so many third-party apps out there to help with any types of bookings - it is incredible!
David and the team did an impeccable job. We had a group booking so instead of me working on the plans for the entire group, David and the team facilitated nearly every step of the process. It was a huge plus that they were able to follow up to make sure the check in and all the bases were covered (which are the usual responsibilities that I am tasked with...) Now is that a fine deal or what! The stress has been diminished to almost nothing (ok, maybe except for the packing part, but that's not part of the agent's offers!) Again, the personal effect in working with a person who manages so many of the endless details, is ultimately priceless. Plus I will be honest - I am not the easiest to work with - being a planner myself, I know the ins and outs of what it takes to make sure all i's are dotted and t's are crossed. There is just so much to go into and be on top of - and for David to be able to measure up to all these expectations and answer nearly all my inquiries, it is quite impressive! And for me to never step foot into their office to accomplish all of this - is yet another extraordinary accomplishment in this "journey" of planning.
I agree with all the reviewers on this, they are all on point. Also this company provides a huge array of vacation opportunities, I have only begun to look at. But the idea that they are able to even offer what I need (without having to search on the internet), saves a lot of time. I provide dates and a few other basic information and David delivers nearly every time. On top of that, he includes vital information that is helpful in making appropriate decisions.
Ultimately, the most important results from all this was that our trip turned out be super fun. Excited to share some of the photos from the vacation!
Thank you David and to your entire team for the extensive work and service, professionalism, and invaluable information!