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Travel and Vacation plans have Valois makes |
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Frequently Asked Questions Q:
I want to go alone on an all-gay cruise. The rate for the cabin is twice as much if I want my own. I’ve been thinking about the Share Program that the cruise operator is offering. How do they go about finding your roommate and what happens if you’re not compatible?
Q: If I want to purchase my air ticket on-line, will you still research the accommodations and make the reservation? A:
Of course, but for a small fee for our professional services. If we are required to research multiple properties domestic or overseas, contact them via email, telephone and FAX, you can imagine what the operating expenses and time adds up to. But first, bear with me while I give you the “411” on internet ticket purchases and how we run our business. There is a misconception in the general public at how travel agencies turn a lucrative profit with their commissions from air carriers. Once upon a time the percentage was 10% with no caps. Unfortunately for us the percentages have dropped to 3-5% and are capped at $50. But it gets worse for the traveler... Anyone who has gone through the rigors of procuring a ticket via the internet will unfortunately be the LAST person the airlines will assist in the event of a flight change, cancellation, over-booking, etc. I have even overheard a ticketing agent at LaGuardia telling a stranded traveller that since she’d purchased her ticket via the internet she’d have to wait until all of the full-fare passengers were helped. Now with the air lines track record these days, (1 in 4 flights are cancelled or delayed), would you consider saving a fraction of the regular ticket fare with this type of customer service? Sure the internet deals can be attractive but what happens when you’re stranded? Well, since you’ve made your deal on the internet and have an E ticket, make sure that you have your laptop in that regulation size carry-on to book your alternate flight! If you purchase a ticket through an accredited travel agency that has a 24-hour emergency phone number, like ours, you can bypass the long lines of disgruntled passengers and call our service for IMMEDIATE assistance. Furthermore, Valois Travel ALWAYS researches the best airfare, period. So think of it this way: In order for us to cover the costs of operating Valois Travel so that we may continue this valuable service to the gay and lesbian community, we prefer to book your complete itinerary - both air and land. The commissions from the airlines might be nominal but they do add up. In addition, our agency assures a level of customer service that you will not be getting with an internet purchase. With that said, if you need us to research multiple properties and book your accommodations, but not your air fare, we trust you understand why we have a $25 research and booking fee per destination to cover our expenses.
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