04/10/2026
Pleass allow me to explain what working with a Travel Agent or what many people now call a Travel Advisor really is.
I came across a recent news segment that suggested travelers should use a travel advisor for free advice… and then book everything themselves
That is not a “travel hack.”
That is a misunderstanding of how this industry actually works.
Here’s the reality 👇
Most agents work on commission only. Commission that is built into the prices of the travel component (cruises, resorts, hotels etc). The consumer never sees it. But if you book on your own after you “pick our brain for free” and don’t book with us….we make ZERO. Guess what? You didn’t save any money either.
Another misconception?
That travel advisors are always on “vacation” or traveling for free.
When we travel, we’re working.
We’re touring resorts, taking notes, meeting with suppliers, evaluating experiences, and paying attention to the details most travelers would never think to look for.
We may be at an oceanfront resort…and never touch the sand. Or on a cruise balcony long enough to take a photo.
Because we’re there to learn, to vet, and to make sure when we recommend something, it’s based on firsthand knowledge, not guesswork.
We invest in travel so our clients don’t have to take risks.
Professional travel advisors are not Google.
We are not “idea generators.”
And we are certainly not here to provide free advice.
We have bills to pay and food to put on the table just like you. This is how we make our living and sometimes it’s feast or famine. We work HARD for our clients, sometimes waiting months to be paid, and we deserve to get paid for OUR time don't you agree?
We are business owners. We are problem-solvers. And we are experts at what we do.
We:
• Design personalized travel experiences
• Navigate supplier systems and policies
• Monitor changes, disruptions, and risks
• Advocate for our clients when things go wrong
• And stay with our clients from planning → travel → return
That level of service doesn’t start at booking.
It starts the moment you ask for expertise.
💡 Let’s put this in perspective:
You wouldn’t ask an attorney how to fight a lawsuit… then represent yourself to save money.
You wouldn’t ask a financial advisor what to invest in… then cut them out of the transaction.
So why is it acceptable to do that to a travel advisor?
Organizations like ASTA - American Society of Travel Advisors responded quickly, and rightfully so.
Because this isn’t just about one comment.
This is about an industry made up of 𝐬𝐦𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐛𝐮𝐬𝐢𝐧𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐞𝐬
• 95% are small business owners
• 80% are women-owned like myself.
This is real expertise. Real careers. Real livelihoods.
✔️ In most cases, working with a professional travel advisor doesn’t cost more. In fact we have access to deals & perks you can’t find in public.
✔️ It actually saves you time, stress, and costly mistakes
✔️ And in every case, you’re getting someone in your corner
If you want DIY travel, that’s your choice.
But if you choose to work with a professional…
👉 Respect the process
👉 Respect the expertise
👉 Respect the business behind it
Like a lawyer, a Travel Advisor may ask for a planning fee for their time similar to a consultation fee...this fee is for their time & expertise.
I’ve spent 7+ years earning certifications, attending conferences and trainings to gain knowledge and engage with suppliers and the travel industry all so I can better serve my clients.
The difference between a “trip” and a 𝐰𝐞𝐥𝐥-𝐝𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐞𝐱𝐩𝐞𝐫𝐢𝐞𝐧𝐜𝐞 is the person behind it.
I am a women owned business with a home office in addition to my salon business. I specialize & host group cruise retreats at sea along with booking individual & family travel experiences.
Locally Owned and Operated in Seadrift, TX since 2017.
You may reach me by
phone at 361-648-6782 or 361-655-2134
Email [email protected]
Book online at www.LKMTravel.com
If this resonates and is received with compassion & understanding I look forward to working with you in the future. I appreciate your business & the referrals you send me as well.
Sincerely
Lisa K McLean
Have a FABULOUS day!!
From luxurious cruises to exotic resorts and thrilling adventures, our travel advisors are here for one purpose: to help you find your Dream Vacations.
