HAVE A QUOTE AND WANT TO ENSURE YOU HAVE BEEN GIVEN THE BEST DEAL?
I recently was approached to look at a package quoted for the Warwick Le Legon in Vanuatu and managed to shave $626 off the price given to the clients before coming to me- I honestly had to check it 5 times myself! Here's the specifics;
- Return economy class airfares with Air Vanuatu between Sydney and Port Vila - Return private car transfers between airport and resort - 5 nights accommodation in a Lagoon view room at the Warwick Le Legon, including all meals daily, drinks (premium brands at surcharge), complimentary use of gym and non motorised watersports, welcome drink on arrival - Snorkeling safari tour
I came up with $2014.74 exactly per person, twin share for dates in October. A great price for an all inclusive get away, and very importantly- the saving from the first quote would be a great kitty for the spending money!
I actually started this as a post to advertise, but realised when writing down my thoughts, my message was more about the booking experience, so here's some more from me on that;
TIPS FOR QUOTE MATCHING;
Ensure you are comparing apples for apples, absolutely!
Be open and honest with your consultant, it's hard to help you if you aren't prepared to offer what you are asking them to match or better.
Agents can often tell via their systems if you are shopping your quote around, which can be devastating to the rapport the consultant is trying to build with you.
Be open to other suggestions, in fact the quote I was given had horrible flight times, the same price was able to be offered on days better flight times existed.
Don't cave into pressure, particularly in the last week of financial year, the last week of a month or quarter. Trust your gut!
Remember to get back in touch with the consultants that helped you, even if you didn't book with them. Its likely they spent a lot of time with you before another agent simply offered a bigger discount from their commission, having spent none of their own time in putting the package together for you. In saying that, you are well within your rights to book where you like, but the agent you didn't get back in touch with will perhaps be less excited to help you again in the future should they be asked.
Remember that when it comes to the service part of your holiday booking, cheapest isn't always best. I've been asked by people to help in the past when they have booked online and can't find a phone number or get a response from emails. I've also helped clients in the past who have received little/no assistance after paying their agent money, or dealing with issues upon return. You are more than just a number.
Has the agent crossed the line with personal comments about the consultant you have brought the quote from? RUN!!
What have your experiences been with the pressure of price matching your holiday dream? I'd love to know, the good, the bad and the ugly!!