How Would I Start A Home Based Travel Agency

Have you ever thought about working as an independent travel agent?

After, I took my first cruise I was completely hooked on taking vacations and the beautiful Caribbean. I started booking travel for my friends and family on the internet. I decided to look into if there ways a way to make some money doing this. I did my research and found an agency whose focus is home based travel agents.

What would you say is the biggest obstacle in creating your own travel business?

My biggest obstacle in buidling my own travel business was deciding where on earth I was going to find clients who needed to travel? But I soon found out, everyone I knew was willing to help me. I have friends, relatives, acquaintances, and even former employers as clients now. I also have several clients that I have never met face to face, just online. So although this started out as my biggest obstacle, it really hasn't been much of problem.

What would you say is the market you target?

I target corporate travelers, families with children, and adults who need to get away from the daily pressures of life. I specialize in cruise vacations, Mexico and the Caribbean, which of course are excellent vacations for anyone! I also work with people who love to travel and are looking to make some money in the travel industry. I have personally helped many, start a travel business from home.

What is the advantages of working from home?

This is my business, but I have a host agency (booking system), I set my own hours, pick my clients and most important control how much money I make! I do not have the overhead a traditional agency and I have all the tax advantages of  being a business owner.

How did you handle your training?

The company I work for provides all kinds of training. Most travel suppliers have training modules that you can complete. The best training of all, are "fam" trips. Fam's are familiarization trip, vacations or cruises at greatly discount prices so you can experience first hand a resort or cruise. (Lot's of fun!)

What about specialized equipment for your home office?

Specialized equipment really isn't necessary when you are starting out. A computer and your telephone are going to be your best friends as an independent agent. Most independent agents start out working with a host agency. A host agency allows you to book travel using their accounts for a percentage of your commissions. A host agency is also beneficial for running airline tickets for you. It enables agents to focus more on selling and servicing clients."

Is it realistic to think a travel agency business can be started for under $500.00?

Yes, it's very realistic to start a travel agency for under $500.00. But, this also depends on factors such as: do you already own a computer?, do you have a home office setup?, etc...

Where do you find your customers?

Most of my customers  have come from word of mouth advertising. These include those I've met in person and those I've met online. I also use some of the tools the internet offers to gain clients.


Do you have any advice for people starting a travel business?

One piece of advice I highly suggest you do your research! There are several host agencies that may work for some people, and not for others. You really need to research and find out what each agency will offer you and what the cost will be. For example, if you do not have any previous experience in the travel industry, it's a good idea to look for an agency that will provide support and new agent training. Keep in mind that not all agencies are the same. The agency that I found has the ability to set you up immediately with a website, a way to manage your contacts and  track your commissions. They also offer a great program with wholesale pricing on your clients favorite vacations and the ability to rent condo and villa's.

Operating a travel agency can be hard work, since you are doing everything for your business.  Think about it, if owning your own business was really easy, everyone would do it. But it's an extremely rewarding career - financially and personally.

 If you would like further information about becoming an agent, and feel free to contact me at YourOwnTravelBusiness@gmail.com

I'd be happy to answer any questions you may have.

Hard work aside, it is very satisfying to hear someone say, "I had a GREAT vacation! Thanks a lot!" That's when you get to smile, drink your hot cocoa or cappuccino and daydream about tropical fruity drinks and sandy beaches!

3 Good Reasons To Start Your Own Online Travel Business

“At Berkshire Hathaway, we like companies that are easy to understand. Doris Christopher’s “keep it simple” approach has a lot to teach anyone who is reaching for the American Dream."


"I would challenge anyone on Wall Street to take $3,000 and do what Doris Christopher has done: build a business from scratch into a world-class organization."

-Warren Buffett

You can take a simple idea, a product that people use, offered it in a simple direct selling manner and be very successful. I have found an on-line, home based travel business that meets all of the criteria that Warren Buffet recommends.


Lets look at Mr. Buffets 3 recommendations for a successful home based business.

A Simple Idea

Travel is something people understand. They travel out of necessity for work and spend a lot of time planning travel for pleasure. The internet has become the way they look for and book their travel.

I have discovered a simple way to capture a piece of that business. Take a look at this opportunity to have your own private label on-line travel site. You do not need a large capital to start. You do not have to incur a lot of expense in having an online, home based travel business. Unlike a brick and mortar business, the on-line home based travel site is quick to start and very affordable. In fact, the tax savings and discounted travel opportunities are an additional benefit.

Take a few minutes and look at the opportunity.
http://breakawaytravelandcruise.ltcmovie.com/

A Product That People will use.
(For business and pleasure)

Again, people travel for both business and pleasure. Every life changing event creates an opportunity for travel. The local travel agencies have been closing at an alarming rate. Yet the travel industry was up by over 1 trillion in 2009. So, where has the business transitioned? To the internet. This is a rapid market that you can tap into. You can get your share of the profits and be very successful.

The two most exciting parts of this travel business opportunity are the wholesale travel product and the over 200,000 condos and villas. This company offers wholesale travel. Really... you just have to see it.

http://breakawaytravelandcruise.worldventuresdreamtrips.com/


Direct Selling (Better known as recommending a solution)

This is really what we do every day, every time we recommend a product or service.

We tell our friends, our co-workers, our family all the time where we like to shop, eat and spend our money. Most of the time they take our recommendations and we are never compensated in any way. Let’s do a what if. What if you could offer an easy on-line travel site, that is easy to use and saves them time and money? (You can make a commission on their travel purchase). What if you could offer wholesale travel at severly discounted rates and a consumer website. Email me and find out how. breakawaytravelandcruise@gmail.com

World Ventures Get's "A" Rating!

Dr. Charles King Gives WorldVentures "A" Rating at the Denver Acceleration in August!


Dr. Charles King is Professor of Marketing at the University of Illinois at Chicago. He received his Doctorate in Business Administration from Harvard University and Bachelor's and Master's Degrees from the University of Texas. He is also the founder of a UIC Seminar in Network Marketing and teaches Network Marketing in the university's marketing programs.

Dr. King maintains an extensive marketing consulting practice that has taken him across the globe to Dubai, Singapore, Mexico, Hong Kong, Thailand, the Arab Emirates, England and more. His expertise is sought by clients ranging from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies. Dr. King is perhaps best known for his book The New Professionals, which he co-authored with Jim Robinson in 2000. He is currently conducting research for an updated 2007 edition of his book and plans to include WorldVentures with the new content.

(from prweb.com)

Travel Insurance

While travel insurance was formerly looked upon as a luxury, consumers concerned about whether their vacations can be canceled by incidents outside their control, or worried about the quality of medical care in the area they are visiting, now view travel insurance as a good value. Generally, a comprehensive travel insurance policy costs 5 to 7 percent of the price of your trip.

Before buying travel insurance, be sure you don't already have sufficient coverage through your home insurance, health insurance, or as a perk on your credit card if you charged your trip.

What to buy

A travel insurance policy usually offers two coverage’s: trip cancellation/interruption and emergency medical evacuation. Reimbursements for lost baggage or trip delays are nice if they come bundled with trip cancellation/interruption or emergency medical evacuation, but they're usually not good buys on their own. If you have absolutely no health insurance, or if your health plan won't cover you at all while you're abroad, then you should look into medical or hospital coverage. Be sure to check your health insurance policy carefully.

Trip cancellation/interruption coverage will reimburse you for any nonrefundable deposits you put down on a trip or cruise if it turns out that you won't be able to go after all, or if you have to leave early. The catch? It will only pay out if you have to cancel or leave early because of a covered reason. That's why it's so important to read the fine print. Some policies will cover only medical reasons (say you're admitted to the hospital), and some will not cover pre-existing medical conditions (like an old back injury flaring up).

Trip cancellation/interruption will pay the difference between what you can get refunded from the cruise line, Tour Company, or airline, and what you originally paid. That means that you must seek a refund first with the tour company before you file a claim on your trip cancellation/interruption insurance.

Trip cancellation/interruption policies may also cover "unforeseen emergencies," such as an accident on the way to the airport, a hijacking, a natural disaster, a fire or flood at your house, or a call to jury duty. However, they probably still won't cover you if you change your plans, if your job forces you to stay in town, or if you can't go because of personal finances. Travel insurance in general also excludes self-inflicted injuries and problems arising from the use of illegal drugs.

If you're up on top of a mountain and break your leg, or if you're in the depths of the Amazon jungle and you get a fever, emergency medical evacuation coverage will pay for the cost of transporting you to safety and, in some cases, all the way home.

This is coverage for the really big problems such as a helicopter rescue, which can run you as much as $20,000, or the cost of your trip back to states. It makes the most sense to buy this coverage if you're going on an adventure vacation or to an area where you'll be far from modern medical facilities. In such situations, you should make sure you've gotten all the recommended vaccinations. It's also a good idea to bring along an emergency kit with medical supplies. If you are going to be engaging in risky behavior like hunting big game, mountain climbing, or skiing, make sure that your policy covers such situations.

If you have health insurance, find out from your health plan what benefits apply when you're abroad. If you won't have any health coverage while you're traveling, you might want to look for a travel insurance policy that includes medical coverage. You'll probably get the best buy if it's bundled with trip cancellation/interruption policy may cover the loss.

If you're up on top of a mountain and break your leg, or if you're in the depths of the Amazon jungle and you get a fever, emergency medical evacuation coverage will pay for the cost of transporting you to safety and, in some cases, all the way home.

This is coverage for the really big problems such as a helicopter rescue, which can run you as much as $20,000, or the cost of your trip back to states. It makes the most sense to buy this coverage if you're going on an adventure vacation or to an area where you'll be far from modern medical facilities. In such situations, you should make sure you've gotten all the recommended vaccinations. It's also a good idea to bring along an emergency kit with medical supplies. If you are going to be engaging in risky behavior like hunting big game, mountain climbing, or skiing, make sure that your policy covers such situations.

If you have health insurance, find out from your health plan what benefits apply when you're abroad. If you won't have any health coverage while you're traveling, you might want to look for a travel insurance policy that includes medical coverage. You'll probably get the best buy if it's bundled with trip cancellation/interruption or emergency medical evacuation coverage, although there are companies who specialize in health care and "general assistance" for travelers abroad. You should know whether the policy will actually pay for the medical care up front, whether you have to get approval from the insurance company's medical specialist before you can get care, and if there is a referral line for you to call.

How much does it cost?


Most comprehensive travel insurance policies, which include travel medical coverage, medical evacuation, and trip-cancellation or interruption insurance, cost between 5 and 7 percent of the price of your trip. Prices are based on your age and the cost of your trip — where you're traveling generally doesn't factor into the price — as well as the amount of medical coverage and baggage-replacement insurance you buy.

Email me for more personal pricing for your travel insurance needs.

breakawaytravelandcruise@gmail.com

Honeymoon to Remember

Take the time to look at 15 Top Travel Tips, First Time Cruise & What Is An All-Inclusive. These three posts will help you with general travel information. Breakaway Travel and Cruise is a direct link to start your travel planning.

Make Your Plans Early & Together

Plan early and plan together. After more then 31 years of marriage and many years in the travel industry, the best advice I can give the groom in too include the bride in the honeymoon plans. It is important to research and pick out what you would like to do. You first need to know if your destination will be a cruise to the Caribbean or maybe Alaska or an all-inclusive in Mexico. Then the groom can work with the travel agent to make the honeymoon something special for his bride.

Use A Travel Specialist

The expertise of a travel agent will be invaluable to provide the information so you will have an experience that you will cherish. Travel agents have contacts with tour companies and cruise lines that exceed those that you can access as an individual. The use of a travel agency will almost always save you money!

Set A Budget

This is something you will be hearing a lot about. Starting with a tentative budget is a good first step. I usually have the bride and groom come up with the three top honeymoon destinations. Then we go over the prices for the three options. Once you have the quotes then we can determine how close we are to your budget and then beginning to talk about where to make adjustments.

Matching Your Wedding Plans

It is very important to plan a honeymoon that will fit and not compete with the wedding. The wedding is for you and your quests; the honeymoon is just for the two of you. That may sound funny but it is something that needs to be addressed. If you are having a really large wedding with lots of out of town guests you may want to delay leaving on your honeymoon for a day or two. If your wedding is small and a major airport is very convenient to your wedding and reception then leaving out first thing the next day may be the best option. The time you leave is an important part of your plan and should be discussed between the two of you.

Changing Your Name?

Even though the bride may be changing her last name her travel arrangement must be done in her maiden name. If your honeymoon is a long enough time after the wedding to change her government issued identification then use the new name. This may sound trivial, but with the current security expectations in the airports you will want her travel documents to match government issued identification.

Plan On Relaxing

I tell my cruise and vacation clients this: Make up your mind that when you go to the airport and you leave for your honeymoon that you both will make a conscious effort to relax. Everything at home will be there when you get back! I have traveled a lot and most people, including honeymooners, take the first three days to relax. I have had lots of clients return and thank me for that tip!

Be Flexible

This is a very important thing to practice both for your wedding and honeymoon. I had two children get married in a five month time period. Sometimes weddings can bring to the surface some problems that usually go unnoticed. Time has a way of changing the perspective; memories will be wonderful even with the bumps in the road. As far as your honeymoon goes, leave it all behind and go and have a wonderful time!

Don’t Over Plan

This is one of my 15 Top Tips and it is so important on your honeymoon. I still think you should have an itinerary, know what your top excursions choices would be but do not think that you have to have every minute planned. Sometimes, going with the flow for the day or just doing nothing can be wonderful. I remember once it rained all day and our plans had to change. We decided to go to an art auction had a great time and bought lovely piece of art as a memento of our vacation!

Top Honeymoon Destinations

Hawaii, Caribbean, Las Vegas, Mexico, Cruise, All-Inclusive Resort

I would love to help you plan your amazing trip!

All-Inclusive Resort Vacation

What is included in an all-inclusive resort?

A recent survey reveals that over 52% of American travelers are interested in all-inclusive offers. Why? It’s the cruise ship on land idea that you do not have to worry about the details; the activities are planned for you. The security of knowing that one price covers airfare, entertainment, food, drinks, transfers to and from the resort and in most cases even the tipping. The promise of no additional charges at the end of your vacation is the great attraction to all-inclusive. The price in addition to food and drinks includes various activities planned by the staff at the resort and most non-motorized water sports. Like the cruise ship, there are additional activities at the resort or at another locations (shore excursions) that can be purchased ahead of time with your travel agent or when you are at the resort. Examples of what can be purchased are swimming with the dolphins, river rafting, horseback riding, off shore snorkel trip and many other options.

Is all-inclusive a good choice for a special occasion?

All-inclusive, is a great romantic destination. Rooms can start with a standard resort room or you can upgrade to amenities like a private swimming pool, 2 person Jacuzzi, or a private bungalow right on the beach. Many of the resorts are adult only. Which is a great option for a honeymoon or romantic get away. These resorts, which cater to adults only, can range from a non-stop party atmosphere to a sophisticated spa retreat. Most all-inclusive resorts have a combination of the non-stop fun and provide the solitude of a spa!

Is all-inclusive a good choice for a family vacation?

All-inclusive resorts are great family vacation options. The simple up-front pricing with unlimited food and activities is perfect to stay within a vacation budget. This adds to the enjoyment, knowing that all the meals and activities are included in the price. Resorts that cater to families, have supervised activities for children geared to different age groups. This allows for some quality time with your spouse while the children are busy having fun.

What are the dining options at an all-inclusive resort?

Dinning options in an all-inclusive resort can vary from one resort to another. They can have anywhere from three to more then a dozen dining option. Restaurant options can be, a full buffet, ethic restaurants and also up-scale fine dinning. Most accept casual resort wear but some do have a dress code requirement. This can be a shirt and tie for the man and a dressy outfit for the women. The reservations for the fine dinning should be made as soon as you arrive. The fine dinning option is a great way to celebrate your honeymoon or anniversary. It is wise for you to explore the dinning option along with the activities offered, when choosing a resort. Most, restaurants are a relaxed casual atmosphere and require no reservations at all. Room service may or may-not be a free option. Many resorts in addition to the bar service have a stocked mini-bar in the room that is included with the all-inclusive price.

What are charters and where do they go?

The majority of all-inclusive resorts are in the islands of the Caribbean and also Mexico. They vary from a 2 star up to a 6 star resort. (6 stars being a luxury resort). The flights to get to the destinations are usually charters or scheduled air on a major airline. Some of the best rates are destinations where the charters fly. The charters are flights that go on a regular schedule to the Caribbean and Mexico from most major cities in the United States. That is why most packages, are 3, 4 or 7 days in duration. The charters run year around from some airports, and in the winter from January to April more charter destinations and flight options are added. This is the peak seasons for all-inclusive travel. The packages, that a travel agent can book for you are the best way to secure your vacation and the best value. Travel Agents have considerable knowledge on the charters that service your city and which destinations they go to. The price will include, air, transfers back and forth from the airport to the resort and a great all-inclusive package.

What is a European option?

The alternative to all-inclusive is European. This is usually air, hotel and transfers with no meal or drink options or at most just breakfast. The best choice is all-inclusive. In Mexico, the all-inclusive option is only about $200.00 more per week for 2 people then the European option with no meals or drinks To included unlimited drinks (you can order non-alcoholic) and meals is why the all-inclusive offers is a great value, even if you choose to dine outside of the resort for a meal or two.

How do I choose a resort?

By reading all the options above you have some idea of what to look for. A good resort value is one that meets the needs of what you are looking for. I would recommend two things; one is either a resort that is less then 2 years old or a resort that has been completely refurbished in the last two years. This information is readily available to a travel agent. Although this rule cannot guarantee a perfect resort, it does help to make a decision between one or more locations. I would also look at resorts that cater to either adult only or family depending on the reason for your vacation. If you book your vacation on your own make sure you flight times work with the distance from the airport. There are two factors that can cause a delay. The first is the additional security at the airport and immigration; the second is the conditions and transportation on the island that you are vacationing at. The road trip can be a lovely leisurely ride and great for site seeing, except when you are trying to catch a flight. Some of the islands are small but they can be mountainous and this is what can slow your travel time. This again is where a travel agent can be a great asset to your planning. Take a close look at the activities that are included and also the dinning options when choosing a resort.

Please email me for more information about booking your next all-inclusive vacation!

breakawaytravelandcruise@gmail.com

Beach Vacation Packing List

Beach Vacation


~ Sarong/ Pareo
~ Flip Flops/ Sandals/ Crocs
~ Beach Bag/ Dry Bag
~ Lots of swimsuits
~ Waterproof hair accessories
~ Quick Dry Shorts

Essential Beach Bag

~ A sheet/ Beach blanket/ Large towel
~ Cover-ups/ Loose, light weight shirts
~ Wide brimmed hats
~ Sunscreen and lip balm with sunscreen
~ Small amount of cash
~ Disposable waterproof camera
~ Water
~ Bandana
~ Sunglasses

Beach Equipment

~ Mask and snorkel (fins optional)
~ Bug spray (depending on the area)
~ Inflatable or pop-up playthings
~ Picnic lunch
~ Swiss army knife or Leatherman tool
~ Folding lightweight beach chairs
~ Boogie board or similar
~ Aqua shoes
~ Umbrella or portable pop-up cabana

Beach Bag For The Kids

~ A pail and shovel
~ Beach ball, water wings, other inflatable toys
~ Snacks like fresh or dried fruit
~ Portable kid sized tents

Vacation Packing Check List

Vacation Packing Checklist


Have you ever embarked upon your trip with the strange feeling that you have forgotten something but you just can't put your finger on it? Print out the following checklist and use it the next time you travel, to avoid that strange uneasy feeling.

Essentials

•Passport/Visa
•Foreign currency
•Emergency phone
•Insurance health/travel
•Airline/train tickets
•Reservation info
•Traveler’s Checks
•Car rental info
•Wallet/purse
•Medication
•Underwear
•Travel itinerary


Clothing

• Undergarments
• Shoes
• Swimsuit
• Shirts/blouses
• Jewellery/watches
• Pajamas/robe/slippers
• Sweaters/sweatshirts
• Suits/dresses
• Jeans/pants/sweatpants
• Socks/nylons
• Rainwear/umbrella
• Coats/gloves/hat

Toiletries

• Brush/comb
• Shampoo/conditioner
• Lotion cream
• Toothpaste/brush/floss
• Razors/Shaving cream
• Suntan lotion
• Deodorant
• Manicure items
• Insect repellent
• Soap
• Facial cleansers
• Feminine hygiene products
• Medication/aspirin etc
• Contacts/cleaning solution


Miscellaneous

• Electricity converter
• Travel maps/guidebooks
• Sewing kit
• Hairdryer/curling iron
• Currency converter
• Laundry soap
• Travel iron/steamer
• Sporting equipment
• Clothes line
• Camera/extra batteries, cord, memory card
• Money belt
• Eyeglasses
• Film/media
• Games/CD Player/MP3/books
• Keys for home
• Glasses/sunglasses
• Travel alarm/watch
• Binoculars
• Language translator
• Snacks
• First-aid kit

Foreign Travel

A holiday abroad requires a lot of planning, without which you might find yourself in uncomfortable situations that may ruin your entire trip. When traveling abroad, here are a few things you need to know about:

Travel Documents

When traveling abroad, you are required to carry a valid passport, which is the one proof of identification that is accepted around the world.

In addition, the country you plan to visit might require you to obtain a visa. Check with your travel agent or the embassy well in advance. Obtaining these documents takes time, so plan accordingly.

Money Matters

Carrying cash abroad can be risky. It is best to use other forms of currency, which are insured against loss or theft. Here are several options:

Travelers Checks: This is the safest way to carry your money. It is available at banks and travel agencies and easily converted to cash. To safeguard your travelers checks, keep a copy of the serial numbers separate from the checks.

Euro-checks: These are generally acceptable in Europe, and can be used with a guarantee card, like the checkbook you have at home. If you travel often, Euro-checks can be your most convenient option.

Credit Cards: Many restaurants and shops around the world accept credit cards. You can also withdraw cash against your credit card; however, you will be charged a transaction fee.

Health

Find out if the country you are visiting has any vaccination requirements. This information will be available from the embassies of the countries you plan to visit.

Getting Around

Most countries have very good and reasonably inexpensive public transport networks. Rail is often the most leisurely way of travel between major cities.

You can also choose to drive. However, keep in mind that road conditions in other countries may not be the same as they are at home. If you are driving, make sure you know and obey the rules. Also, carry along a valid international driving license. Car Rental can be arranged through prior to your vacation.

For the 1st Time Cruise

Should I use a travel agent?

If you have never taken a cruise, a good travel agent should answer any questions and concerns that you may have. Travel Consultants will have a good knowledge of the cruise industry and be able to personalize your cruise selection. There are so many options for you that it could be overwhelming. Here are the basic steps in booking a cruise.

What is the best way to make a first cruise choice?

Since there are so many cruise lines, ships, ports and destinations a choice can be over whelming to the seasoned traveler or a new cruise passenger. Here are some basic things to help you to get started. First, determine when you want to take your cruise. Only you know your schedule and how flexible that you can be. Once you determine the dates, go to Cruise Search and put in your date, destination and the number of days. This will give you a complete list of all the cruises that will fit what you are looking for. You need to know which cruise port that you will be leaving from in order to book your airline tickets. The next decision is which destinations you would like to go to. One thing to look for is the number of days at sea and the number of ports the ship is stopping at.

What is the difference between a southern, western or easter cruise?

In the Caribbean there are three basic choices. Western Caribbean, which usually includes Cozumel, Grand Cayman and Key West. Eastern Caribbean, which includes Bahamas, St. Thomas and many other port options. The third choice is Southern, which usually comes out of San Juan and does varied ports including St. Martin, St. Thomas and island to the far south of the Caribbean. The main consideration in choosing a southern Caribbean is the airfare will be higher to San Juan, which is about 1000 miles south of Miami, Florida. The advantage of Southern Caribbean Cruise is the weather is very tropical and the island that they visit can only be reach from San Juan on a 7day cruise or from United States on a longer cruise. The difference in selecting an eastern or western is the islands and ports that you wish to visit. Both Eastern and Western leave from many of the same ports in the United States.

Inside, Outside or Balcony?

Once you decided which cruise you would like to take then there are a few more decisions. First is cabin type. There is inside, which is the same layout as an outside it just does not have a window. There is outside which has either a porthole (a small round window) or a larger square window. The last choice is a stateroom with a balcony. This choice is about price and preference. If you are very active and will not be in the room very much an inside or outside will work. To have a balcony is the ultimate cruise experience. To step outside anytime, included at night to see the moon over the water is really an unforgettable experience. Last fall we had a balcony on the Carnival Glory, in the layout of the stateroom they placed the bed right by the large window and the glass door. An unforgettable experience was at night to open the curtain and see the moon over the water. This can be a very romantic experience. A balcony is a wonderful quiet spot to enjoy the 24 hour room service.

How do I arrange my airline tickets?

Okay, you know where you want to go and which cabin type you may select. Now there are two air options. You can book the entire package with the cruise line. This is one price for air, the cruise, transfers back and forth from the airport to the cruise ship and taxes and port charges. This is great for first time cruise passengers or someone who has not traveled very much. This option comes with built in safeguards. Since the cruise line handled all of the travel plans they are responsible to take care of you. If your flight is cancelled they will put on another flight. This option cost a little more but may be worth the extra for a first time passenger. Sometimes, the cruise line offers reduce airline ticket prices at the time you book your cruise. I just saved a couple who was taking a 14 day Hawaii cruise over $700.00 to fly out of Detroit MI which had a reduce air ad-on instead of Grand Rapids MI which only had the regular priced air. This saving is well worth the 2-hour drive. Remember to have your agent check the surrounding airports.

The second option is to do the cruise, transfers and port charges as one charge with the cruise line and do your air tickets separate. An experienced travel agent will know how to coordinate this and save you some money. There are three main things you need to know. One, how far the cruise port is from the airport. (Fort Lauderdale and Miami have each a cruise port and an airport). The second and third thing you need to know before you schedule your flight is what time the ship leaves and what time it arrives back in port. Once you know what time the ship leaves and returns and how far it is from the airport to the cruise ship you can book your airline tickets. One other suggestion is to fly down one day early. This allows you to sleep in, have a great breakfast and get to the ship before the majority of the passengers.

What is included in my cruise?

All of your meals, snack and 24 hour room service. Tea and coffee is available most of the time in the buffet area and is included in the main dinning room. Some ships even have 24-hour pizzerias. All ship board activities, including children and teen programs, Las Vegas style shows and many options that vary from ship to ship.

What is not included in my cruise price?

Most cruise lines do not included, shore excursions, medical services, bar beverages including soda. The photographs taken by the cruise staff are available for purchase in the ships photo gallery. Internet service and telephone calls home are available for a charge. Any activities like bingo and the casino. (No you can’t gamble for free!) Some of the newer ships also have an alternative dinning option that is available by choice. This dinning option is by reservation only and has a minimal cover charge that averages about $15.00 per person. Babysitting or toddler care is also available for a fee that varies from ship to ship. Dry cleaning and laundry services are available for a fee if needed. Gratuities are also not covered by the cruise fare in most cases.

What are the gratuities?

There are some cruise lines that do included the gratuities in the cruise fare but the majority do not. There are a couple of options for you. You can pre-pay a set amount with the original booking so not to worry about the tipping at the end of your cruise. This is a great option for someone on a budget or group travel. Some of newer ships also automatically charge your room for the gratuities and you can adjust the amount up or down at the purser’s desk, according to the service you receive. For the cruise line that still offers pre-printed envelopes here are some general guidelines.

For cruise booking click here or email breakawaytravelandcruise@gmail.com

About your travel agent

Thank you for visiting Breakaway Travel and Cruise!

I have traveled and cruised to many parts of the Caribbean and Mexico. I love to help people experience there first all-inclusive or cruise vacation.


My goal is to determine what you would like to do, By taking some time to go over what options fit your goals and budget, together we plan a vacation that meets your expectations.

I have traveled on or worked with all the major cruise lines and tour companies.

A little background information about me...

I grew up in Canada, then met and married the only American at a small college in Ontario. We have lived in Michigan most of the last 31 years.

My husband (lovingly) calls himself my “baggage boy” as we go on our travel adventures.

We raised 3 girls, who are married now and have given us 4 wonderful granddaughters.

We took our first “real” vacation by taking a Southern Caribbean Cruise in 1998 on the Galaxy, a Celebrity Cruise, and by the second day, we where hooked. We loved every minute of our vacation and could not wait to plan our next trip.

As a fun hobby, I started to help friends and family book their vacations. Then, as the saying goes…. the rest is history.

I count it a privilege to help you celebrate your honeymoon, anniversary or just a getaway with the people you care about.

I look forward to helping you with your first or your next vacation adventure!