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Wouldn’t it be nice if someone else could take care of all the details for your big getaway and you could actually enjoy that lunch break instead of using it to Google travel packages?
Why not consider handing over the reins to a travel agent? It supports the local economy and, surprisingly, it’s anything but old hat.
Bayless Travel (6430 N. Western; 842-4464), formerly Seagrave Travel, has been in business since 1936. It offers a variety of services from travel packages to vacation property management. Follow Bayless on Facebook and Twitter for updates and specials.
Another option is Travel Agents Incorporated (9415 N. May; 752- 5252). If you aren’t sure what kind of adventure you want, just ask one of the agents for information on upcoming excursions.
Isobel Zweifel, travel consultant at Travel Agents Incorporated, said that the good thing about working locally is that you’ve got a connection to home, especially if your trip isn’t what you expected or something goes wrong. Even if you’re out of town, you can still call home to let your agent straighten out the snafus.
Bentley Hedges Travel (10011 S. Pennsylvania; 237-3333) has everything mapped out for you, perhaps the inevitable result of experience the agency has accrued more than 42 years in business. September marks Bentley’s anniversary, and it has a plethora of packages and prizes to dole out.
“People think they can get by” without a travel agent, said Bonnie Bentley, vice president of sales and marketing. But she explained that people shouldn’t settle for getting by.
After an initial deposit secures the trip, it’s easy to then make installment payments; there aren’t any additional fees involved.
For group travel, each person can pay separately (worth it right there!) and the agency prepares all travel documents needed for the trip.
If you’re planning a honeymoon or destination wedding, a travel agent is a good idea, as well. Set your destination and add it to your registry. Guests easily can send checks to Bentley.
If you’re yearning to go on a vacation but don’t want the stress of all the arranging, leave it in the capable hands of a local travel agent.
You’re stimulating the local economy, reducing stress in your life and booking a vacation, so it’s really a win-win any way you look at it.
Pack your bags and buy travel-sized bottles of everything. Let’s shop, OKC!
This article appears in Aug 22-28, 2012.