I am often asked by clients and friends to price out something that they have seen online or gotten in the mail offering a trip that “sounds too good to be true”, obviously in more cases than not, we are able to show them that yes, if it sounds too good to be true, it usually is.
This leads into the conversation based on a quote by Warren Buffett, “Price is what you pay, value is what you get.”
When looking at two trips that on the surface look similar it’s extremely important to dig a little deeper and really make sure that you’re comparing apples to apples. For instance, while considering a European tour that includes a few nights in Rome and a visit to the Vatican museum they can be very different!
Trip one has a lower price tag, but when you look at the itinerary you’re actually staying about an hour outside of Rome and during your two night stay you only get one full day in Rome because of the hotel location and travel time involved. That trip to the Vatican museum is actually an add on, and it’s going to take a huge chunk out of your day, because it doesn’t include “skip the line” privileges.Another apparent cost saver comes at the exclusion of lunch and dinner. You’re on your own for those.
Trip two appears to have a higher “out of the gate” price tag. However, once you drill down, the hotel is in the center of town and within walking distance to the major attractions. This tour also includes a trip to the Vatican museum, but lucky for you, you won’t have to stand in line, or buy tickets once you get there. This Vatican museum tour is private and it’s when the museum is closed to the general public so you won’t have to fight the crowds. You will have the pleasure of visiting before it opens for the day, or perhaps after it closes. Breakfast on this tour is also included daily. Lunches and dinners, while not offered every day, are included several days during your visit.
Aside from price and value, the other considerations that a travel professional can assist with are the pace of the tours you are comparing. A tour that spends several nights in a location before moving onto the next is going to offer a more immersive experience than the tour that moves to a new country or new city each night.
The same analogy can easily be played out when looking at a cruise or an island escape. Even some ocean cruises are now including shore excursions, gratuities and drinks. Of course the price tag appears higher than a similar itinerary that doesn’t include these things. However, when you add in what’s already included on cruise A versus cruise B you may be surprised that you’ll spend less over all on cruise A! The same holds true when comparing the cost of an all-inclusive resort to a standard hotel.
With the help of a travel professional we can match your travel style to the vacation that will not only maximize your travel budget, but exceed your expectations.
The travel professionals at Slaydon’s would love to help you plan the vacation that is the best fit for your travel dreams. Click here to set up your appointment and we can get started today!
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