There have been reports of the following issues with unlicensed travel providers:

• Trips paid to the travel provider, who then fails to pay the resort
• Routine downgrades and/or guests being moved to other properties
• High rates of Bankruptcy (guests are protected against this if the agencies maintains a proper escrow account, like Tom’s Trips)
• Supplier Bankruptcy resulting in lost payments by travelers – Travel Agents with proper Travel Agent Liability Insurance protect the guests if the hotel/airline of other supplier goes out of business.

It is aways a good idea to verify your travel providers credentials.  IATAN (International Airline Travel Agent Network) is the leading industry recognized accrediting body.  VERIFICATION PAGE

Be sure to use the second entry field to “Validate Agency Numeric Code” if using the 8 digit code below to verify a travel agencies IATAN.

Tom’s Trips IATAN number is 23-6 4663 0

Why to use a Travel Agent

Joseph Watters, President of Crystal Cruises

“Why should I use a travel agent?” As a veteran travel executive, that’s a question I’m often asked. Today, with the overwhelming number of sources for travel information (the Internet, cable television, newspapers, magazines, guidebooks, etc.), it’s no wonder the consumer is confused. Yet that’s precisely why the services of a professional travel consultant are more valuable than ever.

In January, the television news magazine, 20/20, reported the results of a test in which travel agents beat consumers at uncovering the best airfares. However, it is much more than the “lowest fare” that provides the compelling argument for a good travel agent.

The best thing an agent can do is to match up a traveler with the vacation that’s right for them. The professional travel consultant builds relationships with their clients to learn their interests and lifestyles, as well as their dispositions.

Below is a list of some of the important services, which are either provided free or for a nominal charge, by travel agents:

1. Distilling the product information: Through an on-going and time-consuming process of familiarization, continuing education and customer feedback, the agent becomes a travel expert.

2. Investigating and supplying competitive information: No single supplier is going to advise a consumer that a better route or a better fare is available on a competing carrier.

3. Staying abreast of the most current and timely promotions: Via daily faxes, agent-only e-mail transmissions, and their relationships with their district sales managers, agents are obtaining the most current promotional information.

4. Analyzing the current promotions: The cheapest is not always the best.

5. Clarifying the fine print, such as cancellation penalties and restrictions: Again, the benefits of a professional’s experience can save a traveler money . . . and headaches.

6. Making recommendations for travel-related options: Travel agents share the to pack for different travel options.

7. Simplifying the research and subsequent transaction: Like a personal shopper, agents can provide one-stop shopping for travelers who require air arrangements, rental cars, cruise accommodations and hotel stays – with suggestions that are in the best interest of the client, not the supplier.

8. Enhancing the trip with value-added benefits and amenities: Agents can add to the client’s experience by sending a bottle of wine, providing a special land package, a specific escort or other customer amenities.

9. Using their clout to obtain the best possible in seemingly impossible situations: Whether it’s airline seats, hotel rooms or cruise space, the travel agent has more buying power than the consumer.

10. Getting problems resolved: The agent serves as the consumer’s advocate in the event something inadvertently goes wrong.

The use of outside service providers for many transactions, such as tax preparation, isn’t questioned. Similarly, if one is going to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars, as well as a good chunk of valuable leisure time, it makes great sense to use a professional.

I hope you’ll consider sharing this information in future consumer interest columns.

Due to the overwhelming demand, Desire is expanding and adding two more properties to the Desire family.

Desire Los Cabos – Open May 1, 2012

This was previously the Temptation Resort in Los Cabos.  They have had Desire Weeks at this resort for years and they were always the most popular weeks of the year so they decided to convert the resort to being Lifestyle Friendly all the time.

Learn more about Desire Los Cabos

Desire Pearl – Riviera Maya – Open March 30, 2012

This is a new property to Desire but has been a clothing optional resort in the past.  This beautiful resort is 100% Ocean View Rooms with lots of amazing suites.  If you are looking for the best room in the Lifestyle, this is it.

Learn More about Desire Pearl

Tom’s Trips has hooked up with Kasidie to bring the best online lifestyle community together with the best lifestyle travel agency (sure we might be a little biased).  We have started communities on Kaside for people to share their photos and experiences.  Please join us in sharing your stories from trips to Hedonism or Desire on one of our communities.

Hedonism Community

Desire Community

If you aren’t already a member of Kaside click on the link above and find out what everybody is talking about

The Montego Bay airport now has a new VIP departure lounge with one very attractive feature.  When you reserve a spot in the departure lounge you get VIP immigration and security line access at the airport.  You can save up to 1.5 to 2 hours of time getting through security and to the concourse alone with this new service.

You will want to use that saved time catching up on e-mails, having a snack and enjoying the top shelf beverages all complimentary with your lounge access.

There are space limitations so you want to make sure and reserve your spot early.  Space gets very limited during the peak departure times of 11:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. on Saturdays and Sundays.

Reserve your seat at Club MoBay today

As many of you likely know Hedonism II has FREE Scuba diving and some of the most beautiful dive scenery in the world (above and below water).  Tom’s Trips is proud to be the exclusive sponsor for the only address of the web dedicated to diving at Hedonism.  Check it out, we would love your feedback.

www.hedodiver.com

New Standard Theme Nights

Effective November 1st, 2011

SUNDAY – NAUGHTY SCHOOL REUNION

Dress to Impress As A Sexy School Girl, Nerd, Principal Or Cheerleader

MONDAY – SEXY PIRATES & BOOTY

Aaaaaargh !! Jamaican Colors With Sexy Booty Shorts And Hot Pirates & Wenches

TUESDAY – PAJAMAS & PASTIES

Tease & Tempt In Lustful Pajamas & Pasties, The Sexiest Party Of The Week

WEDNESDAY – FETISH FANTASY

Expose Your Alter Ego & Fetish In An Intoxicating Atmosphere Of Fantasy Fashion Frenzy

THURSDAY – BLACK & WHITE STARLIGHT NIGHT

The Stars Shines Bright In The Sexiest Black & White Costumes

FRIDAY – ROCKING ROCK STARS

Dress As Your Favorite Rock Idol And Party Like A Rock Star

SATURDAY – MASKPARADE

Doll Yourselves Up But Don’t Forget to Add Your Special Mystery Mask To The Sexy Ensemble

Of course your Tom’s Trips group trips will regularly combine the regular Hedo Themes with our own Group Themes to enhance your Hedonism II experience.  For more information on Group Trips to Hedonism Click Here

Check out the latest early booking discounts for Desire.

You can save up to 30% off by booking your trip early with these great rates.

Plus Toms will pay for your ground transfers – $75 value

Early Booking Discounts

May 1 -December 25, 2012

Garden View – $180 Per Person Per Night

Must reserve your room by January 30, 2012

Deposit of $200 per person is due at time of booking.  Final payments are due 70 days from travel arrival date.

Click Here to learn more about the Tom’s Trips Entertainment Staff and the extra value that brings to your vacation plans.

We want to thank all of  you for our support.