By Debbie Gardner
debbieg@thereminder.com
When it comes to making travel plans – be it a well-thought-out dream trip or a last-minute getaway, there’s no better resource than the travel pros at AAA, according to Sandra Marsian, vice president, Membership, Travel & Marketing for AAA of Western Massachusetts.
“Our auto travel counselors assist AAA members with routing for road trips, domestic hotel and car reservations, maps, tour books, advice on destinations and attractions and even suggest how to save money along the way. Our travel agents are full-service and assist non-members and members alike with their travel arrangements”from Disney to Europe.
Prime asked Marsian to poll her staff for some great last-minute summer travel ideas. Here are her – and their – answers:
Q: It’s already summer – if you haven’t made any vacation plans, is it too late to book an amazing trip?
“It is never too late to book an amazing summer vacation. Whether you are up for a trip involving a flight, or a drive-a-way vacation there are always options to consider even if you are on a budget.
Busier spots may have limited availability or higher prices, but this opens the door to new, creative options you may not have considered.”
Kati Litten, AAA West Springfield Auto Travel Counselor, added, “Many people look to go to the coast in the summer months, but there are plenty of gorgeous lakes to go to. How about a moose safari in Maine? They do exist. Or plan a trip around wineries. Most are in beautiful areas with B & Bs to stay at. And of course there is Florida. Along the coast there are sea breezes, so that it is not so terribly hot. If you are a heat loving person … south of the border is always an option. At AAA we make drive-away adventures, especially last minute ones, easy to investigate – we have access to all hotel rates at our fingertips. It is hard to find complete listings of hotels as well as an updated availability when you are shopping for travel online, so AAA Auto Travel Counselors are a great resource.”
Q: What if your budget is a bit tight? Are there still options for a memorable getaway that won’t break the bank?
“AAA.com/travel is a great resource as it allows you to check out pricing on everything from a hotel booking to a cruise vacation. Some people like to do their own research and AAA.com allows for this while also providing our customers with peace of mind, knowing that a local organization with travel agents onsite are available to assist before, during and after their trip whether you book in person, over the phone or online.”
Q: There’s more than just you to consider. Is it possible to plan a last-minute trip that will please grandparents, parents and grandkids alike?
“Does everyone in your travel party have passports? If so, this may further expand your opportunities. For instance, you can often score a last minute cruise deal in the summer months to Bermuda, the Caribbean or Canada/New England. Better yet, with so many cruises departing from nearby ports such as Boston, New Jersey and New York you can eliminate the cost of airfare. Cruises offer something for everyone making them a great option for couples, families and multi-generational travel. If you are looking to turn around a vacation quickly, a travel agent is an excellent resource as they know just what to ask to help you select the perfect options for you. Come prepared with information such as your preferred dates of travel, number of travel companions, a budget you may prefer to work within as well as your personal interests so we can determine the type of vacation that may appeal to you.”
Alyson Reed, AAA Springfield Travel Agent, added, “Disney has some summer room promotions currently running and Royal Caribbean also has some great deals. And if you are looking for something that will please the entire extended family we can find a great resort that caters to all. All inclusive resorts are a great option.”
