I'm sitting here in the office, with only one other person in the building. Phones are ringing for the agents working from home and I feel optimistic and ready to book travel. I feel like I need to let you all know whats been going on with me and the virus to the travel industry.
In one word: fascinating.
I have been spending my reduced work week of 4 days a week on full time cancellations and what I can only say would be my newest job title of collections agent. To my cherished clients, I have been the bad guy who give bad news, the good guy who gives good news, a sympathetic ear and a voice of reason, just to name a few. I was ill with what I assumed was the virus in the middle of March when all hell broke lose with closures and cancellations. I was home, working off a Ipad at all hours of the day - working for my clients, but thinking I had the virus. I would never leave their side unless I was in the hospital. Even though "it's only money" it's my responsibility and I take that very seriously. I'm fine now by the way, I was ill for about 10 days and made it out the other side just fine.
About 10 days ago, I packed all my home, files, office computer, giant monitor and all my hand written notes (no printer at home) and moved back into the store front off here in Metairie/New Orleans. I had to move forward and be ready to go. Because once we are released from our cages it's going to be off the races! I know I want to get in my car and drive and drive and drive. Put some distance between me and my kitchen. Eat truck stop food, stop and see the giant ball of twine, ANYTHING but be in the same place I have been in. If I feel this way, my clients must feel the same way.
The Henderson Beach Resort & Spa - Destin, Florida (Only a 4.5 hour drive from my kitchen!)
I know this blog is moving into and sales pitch, but really, call me. I have amazing properties with inclusions only a Signature Travel Agency can offer. Lets get you in the car and get you out of the house!
The above picture is the beach in Destin Florida at The Henderson
Travel Central's Exclusive Amenities - more details Full Breakfast for up to 2 guests daily in Primrose (max $30 per person) $100 Resort credit, per room, per stay Welcome Amenity The following amenities are subject to availability at the time of check-in/departure: Upgrade Early check-in Late check-out
Metairie, LA] – [April 29, 2020] – For Travel Central, business as usual has taken on a different focus for the past few months. With the outbreak of COVID-19, or Coronavirus, Travel Central advisors are their clients most valuable advocate as they have been working 24/7 to bring clients who were traveling home to their families and helping those with future plans rebook or cancel their plans.
These efforts were taken to a whole new level when the U.S. Department of State issued a Level 4 “Do Not Travel”, Return Home, Advisory on March 19 Travel Central advisors worked overnight to contact all their clients abroad. They informed them of the new advisory and worked to get them home as quickly as possible as flights were quickly filling or cancelling.
“Our advisors have always shown incredible dedication to their clients, and in the midst of this outbreak they have stepped up in every way. Having a team that is committed to their clients’ health and well-being is paramount in a situation like this, and we were all glad to be able to assist our clients who are also our friends.” - Melinda Bourgeois Agency Owner
Throughout this outbreak, the necessity of a travel advisor has never been more apparent. Advisors at Travel Central have also been working with travel industry partners to ensure their clients receive refunds or future travel credits in the wake of trip postponements and cancellations.
Travel Central is still open but our advisors are all working remotely, still available to help with all your travel needs in these difficult times. Opening hours are Monday – Friday 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM CST.
About Travel Central
Travel Central's Advisors are highly-trained, knowledgeable travel experts who have one objective: To create, design and implement a travel experience for you that will meet and exceed your every expectation. Local women owned business since 1988.
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