North Carolina: Travel Scams and the Importance of Verified Travel Advisors

The Rising Threat of Travel Scams

North Carolina, April 22, 2025 – Travel scams are on the rise. It’s more important than ever to verify the professional credentials of anyone claiming to be a travel advisor. In recent years, the travel agency industry has seen remarkable growth. Total sales are projected to reach $141 billion by 2026. This surge makes it critical for consumers to distinguish between legitimate professionals and scammers.

Travel advisors are among the fastest-growing professions in the nation. Employment is expected to grow 3% every year from 2023 to 2033, according to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. More people are turning to travel advisors for their expertise. With this increase, consumers need reliable sources to identify true professionals.

Why Choose a Verified Travel Advisor?

The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) has taken action to combat travel scams by creating VeriVacation. This platform connects consumers with ethical Verified Travel Advisors (VTAs) who have been thoroughly vetted by the industry trade group.

The process to become a Verified Travel Advisor is rigorous. It’s designed as a unique professional development program for experienced travel advisors. Those who achieve VTA certification have met ASTA’s gold standard in customer service, ethics, and compliance. This ensures that travelers receive top-notch expertise for every trip.

Additionally, VTAs must continue their education every two years to maintain their status. This ongoing training guarantees that they stay current with industry trends and practices.

Meet Mary Graham, a Dedicated Travel Advisor

Mary Graham of Trips by Mary LLC recently obtained her VTA certification. This signifies her tireless dedication to her business and showcases her commitment to the highest level of integrity. With this certification, Mary is now featured on VeriVacation, allowing her to help travelers plan the trips of their dreams.

You can get in contact with Mary directly for inquiries or to begin planning your next adventure:

Mary Graham, VTA

Trips by Mary

Email: mary@tripsbymary.com

Phone: 919-817-4081

Discovery Call appointment: https://calendly.com/trips-by-mary/discoverymeeting

Tips for Identifying Travel Scams

When choosing a travel advisor, consumers should keep several tips in mind:

1. Verify Credentials: Always check if the advisor is registered with respected organizations such as ASTA.

2. Look for Reviews: Read testimonials and reviews from previous clients. Authentic feedback is invaluable.

3. Ask Questions: Don't hesitate to inquire about the advisor’s experience and qualifications.

4. Be Wary of Deals That Seem Too Good to Be True: If a deal appears to be unusually cheap, it might be a red flag.

5. Trust Your Instincts: If something feels off, it's okay to seek advice from another professional.

   
   

Conclusion: Protecting Yourself in the Travel Market

Traveling should be enjoyable and free from stress. By choosing a Verified Travel Advisor, you can rest assured you're in capable hands. The travel industry is changing, and unfortunately, scams are becoming more prevalent.

It's critical to take the necessary steps to protect yourself. Trusting a professional with the right credentials can make all the difference.

As you prepare for your next getaway, consider reaching out to a Verified Travel Advisor like Mary Graham. They can help you navigate the complexities of travel planning, ensuring a wonderful experience while keeping your interests top of mind.