Travel Better
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I travel often and to varied destinations, documenting my experiences so that I can help you have the best possible vacation.
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Here is an overview of my planning process:
STEP ONE: Make an Appointment with me to discuss your trip on a Discovery Call. In about 30 minutes, we cover everything that I need to know to get to work for you, saving you hours and hours of research and headaches.
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STEP TWO: Create your Profile by completing the Tasks I send you.
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STEP THREE: I go out to my travel partners, whether it be a cruise line, tour company, river cruise line or destination expert, to craft the perfect vacation package that fulfills your wish list with the best possible pricing and send you the itinerary for review. Everything is customized to you.
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STEP FOUR: You review the proposal, making any adjustments or requests needed. I am always available to go over the details and explain exactly why I selected them for you. Once all is set to your specifications we move to booking the trip.
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STEP FIVE: I book your trip and continue to work with you to complete your travel planning until, finally, you take that incredible trip and make amazing memories!​
Mary Graham,
Verified Travel Advisor, Certified Travel Associate
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Travel News and Articles
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What kinds of vacations do you plan?I plan all kinds of vacations for my clients. From River Cruises to Escorted Luxury Tours to theme park trips like Walt Disney World and Universal Orlando Resort and Independent trips to Europe (London, Paris, Italy, Spain, Ireland are all common requests) plus cruises like Virgin Voyages, Disney Cruise Line vacations, Adventures by Disney and other guided tours. I recently added African Safaris as well. If you are not sure, just ask!
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Why use a Travel Advisor when I can find deals online?While it's true that you can find a lot of information online, there’s also no substitute for experience and knowledge. Often times, online sources are out of date or just plain wrong. I would also caution against booking the cheapest package. Companies with the cheapest prices often have the worst service and cancellation policies. Trips by Mary is an actual real live person who you can talk to and work with to plan each aspect of your vacation. I get to know each client personally and tailor my recommendations to your specific needs and wants. In addition, your time is valuable! Why waste hours searching the internet when you can make one call to me for everything?
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What if I book now and a special offer comes out later?I have your best interests at heart. If you book a vacation through me and a special offer comes out that works for your plans, I will do everything I can to get that offer for you. I spend hours on the phone so you don't have to.
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If I already booked, can you still help me?In some cases, your vacation can be transferred to me to manage. It just depends on the travel vendor and when you booked. I am happy to discuss it with you and see what we can work out. Alternatively, I can consult with you on a fee for service basis. Fees range from $100 for a simple tip sheet to $500 for a detailed vacation plan or concierge services. Contact me for details (mary@tripsbymary.com).
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I've never used a Travel Agent. How does it work?Great question! Basically, we meet by phone or Zoom to chat about what you are looking to do on your trip. I ask a lot of questions about your preferences and it's super helpful to know some basics: who is traveling, where you want to go, dates of travel, priorities like "we have to have a GREAT beach" or "we are really into French cuisine" or "swimming with whale sharks is my dream!" Then I go to work finding some destinations, resorts and experiences that I think fit the bill. I help you make your decision and then your payments go through me to whoever we are booking the trip through. I watch out for you every step of the way and make sure you are prepared for your amazing trip!