Patty Jordan & Kristen Bullock, Professional Travel Designer Patty Jordan & Kristen Bullock, Professional Travel Designer

Why It’s Worth Vetting Your Travel Agent or Agency

A professional travel agent or agency offers far more than just booking services—they provide peace of mind, expert guidance, and dedicated support from start to finish. Taking a few extra moments to ensure you’re working with a trusted and experienced travel professional can make a significant difference in the quality of your travel experience. Here are some key things to look for:

 Professional Business Presence

·       A dedicated business website—not just a Facebook or Instagram page.

·       A secure website (https://) that includes professional bios, services offered, and complete contact information.

·       The agency’s Terms & Conditions and Privacy Policy are clearly explained and easily accessible on the agency's website.

·       An email address that matches the website domain (e.g., info@travelagencyname.com, not travelagencyname@yahoo.comtravelagencyname@gmail.com, etc).

  Affiliations with Reputable Host Agencies or Travel Consortia

These connections demonstrate that the agency is professionally vetted, well-connected, and has access to exclusive travel perks, insider knowledge, and enhanced supplier relationships, all of which benefit you as the traveler. Examples include:

·       Signature Travel Network

·       Travel Leaders

·       Virtuoso

·       Ensemble

 Memberships with Trusted Industry Organizations

Look for affiliation with established, respected organizations such as:

·       IATA – International Air Transport Association

·       ASTA – American Society of Travel Advisors

·       CLIA – Cruise Lines International Association

 Professional Education

Look for professional accreditations, certifications, and training credentials that reflect a travel advisor’s expertise, personal travel experience, and commitment to continuing education. These are key qualities that ensure you're working with a knowledgeable and dedicated professional.

 Unique Travels, an affiliate of Unique Romance & Adventure Travel, is an established professional business that proudly adheres to all of the above. Our role as professional travel advisors is about helping people turn their dreams into reality, inspiring meaningful travel, and creating unforgettable memories.

Ready to plan your next unforgettable journey?  Let’s make it happen—reach out today!

Read More
Carla Schipper, Founder and Professional Travel Designer Carla Schipper, Founder and Professional Travel Designer

All-Inclusive Vacation to Playa Mujeres, Mexico

My husband and I decided to take an adults-only all-inclusive vacation to Cancun, specifically Playa Mujeres. Playa Mujeres is an up-and-coming hotspot and it lives up to its reputation.

Read More
Carla Schipper, Founder and Professional Travel Designer Carla Schipper, Founder and Professional Travel Designer

A Magical African Safari

Going on an African safari was an experience of a lifetime for me. We went to Kenya to see the beautiful national parks and game reserves. Everywhere you looked there were amazing animals like elephants, giraffes, lions, zebras and lots more!

Read More
Carla Schipper, Founder and Professional Travel Designer Carla Schipper, Founder and Professional Travel Designer

Exquisite Bali: Paradise with Something for Everyone

Bali, in the heart of Indonesia, is a culturally rich, magical island that is must-visit destination. It will leave you speechless and planning a return trip!

Read More
Alyssa Costenbader, Professional Travel Designer Alyssa Costenbader, Professional Travel Designer

5 Tips for European Travelers

Europe is one of the most popular destinations for good reason and many travelers and will continue to be for the foreseeable future. The question is, how can you best prepare to navigate the crowds and make the most out of your holiday?

Read More