Comparing Travel Companies
As an educated consumer and teacher, you understand that intangibles are very important when considering a product's qualities. You have the right to expect the best value for your money. May we suggest you consider the following when comparing travel companies:
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What is included and what is not included? Read the brochure carefully. Don't be swayed by price alone, and look instead for money value and especially beware of low ball pricing. Quality delivery always costs more. Very often, quality is sacrificed when the only criterion for a trip is price. Intangibles such as experience, security, dependability, reliability, trustworthiness, and quality of hotels truly matter.
Keep in mind this adage of hard-won wisdom: "The bitterness of poor quality remains long after the sweetness of low price is forgotten." - Is the company reputable? How long has it been in business? Is the company a specialist in student travel or does it deal with everyone? Ask your colleagues about Uniropa's attitude and attention to detail. Promises come cheaply; consistent and dependable performance speaks louder than words. Organized delivery requires care and professionalism. Do the clients come first? A good positive attitude and laughter is everything!
- Does the itinerary offer your students a program that meets the needs and expectations of the group? Is it flexible and subject to your recommendations?
- Is the program and its cost firm and in writing before you travel, or will you continually be asked to dig in to pay for a myriad of options and "plus pluses" on location?
- Does the company readily tell you, at the time of booking, which hotels and what location will be guaranteed for your group?
- Does the company carry liability insurance to protect the teacher? Is medical and accident cancellation protection available? What are the penalties for cancellation?
- On location, will you be offered an experienced, bilingual coordinator and tour director who will totally look after your group to make your trip worry free? Professional, knowledgeable support staff is the backbone of any organization.
- Is the company financially stable? Does it keep the money in trust accounts? What is the refund policy in case of illness or accident?
All too often, if the price sounds too good to be true, it is! There is no magic in pricing — you ultimately end up with the type of program for which you are willing to pay. As a consumer in a market where there is ample choice, you can insist on the best money value available and you should have your expectations go beyond the ordinary!