5d ago

So You Want to Be a Travel Advisor?

What does it actually take to become a travel advisor — and is the job anything like what it looks like from the outside? In Episode 2.8 of the Goofy Getaways Podcast, we're answering one of the questions we hear more than almost any other: "How do I become a travel advisor?" And more specifically — is it as fun, and as easy, as it looks? Join Amy Blades alongside three of our own Travel Advisors — Amanda Worsley, Noddea Skidmore, and Aaron Guest — for a candid, unscripted conversation about what this job really involves once the excitement of "I get to plan Disney trips for a living" wears off. Between the three of them, they've built businesses ranging from eleven years in to just two, and their day-to-day looks nothing alike. But they agree on one thing without hesitation: loving Disney is not the same as running a travel business. In this episode, you'll learn: What a Travel Advisor's day-to-day really looks like, from the first consultation call to long after a client gets homeWhy "the booking is just the beginning" — and what advisors are still doing behind the scenes after a trip is confirmedThe work clients never see: destination training, supplier relationships, policy changes, and the fine print someone has to readThe single biggest misconception about becoming a Travel Advisor, straight from three people who hear it constantlyWhy advisors aren't paid until their clients travel, and what that really means for your first year in the businessHow Amanda, Noddea, and Aaron each built their own client base from nothing — through referral programs, local community investment, and a strong personal brandWhy friends and family not booking with you can be one of the hardest lessons in this jobThe honest questions to ask yourself before deciding if this is the right move for you right now This episode is for anyone who's ever thought, "I already plan every trip for my friends and family — maybe I should get paid for it." But it's also for our clients: if you've ever wondered what really goes on behind the quote you receive, this conversation walks through the whole process, start to finish. Curious what it looks like to build a travel business with Goofy Getaways? Visit https://www.goofygetaways.com/join-our-team to learn more about our team, our training, and what becoming an advisor with us really looks like. Not ready to make that jump yourself, but ready to start planning your own next trip? Head to https://goofygetaways.com/meet-your-advisors and we'll connect you with the right advisor for you. Subscribe to the Goofy Getaways Podcast for expert travel planning tips, destination insights, and real conversations — including what it takes to build a career, not just a vacation, around this industry. You can find the full show notes for this episode here: https://goofygetaways.com/podcast/so-you-want-to-be-a-travel-advisor-goofy-getaways-podcast-episode-2-8

Sep 1

The Truth About Pricing, Promotions, and Price Increases

Are vacation deals really about getting the lowest possible price—and does waiting for a promotion actually save you money? In this mini-episode of the Goofy Getaways Podcast, Amy Blades and the Goofy Getaways team take a closer look at how vacation pricing and promotions actually work, and why the idea of simply "waiting for a deal" isn't always the best strategy. Promotions exist for a reason. Destinations and travel suppliers use them to help fill unsold rooms and cabins, encourage travel during slower periods, and drive bookings when demand isn't as high. But that doesn't mean every room, cabin, or travel date will eventually receive a discount. In this episode, you'll learn: Why vacation promotions exist in the first placeHow supply, demand, and inventory can impact pricingWhy the room or cabin you want may not be available when a promotion is releasedHow booking early can give you more options and flexibilityWhy pricing can increase as demand and inventory changeHow to think about promotions without assuming a discount is guaranteedThe difference between finding the lowest price and getting the best value for the vacation you actually want The goal isn't to scare you into booking early or tell you that waiting is always a bad idea. In some situations, waiting can absolutely work. The key is understanding what you're potentially giving up while you wait—and knowing how pricing, promotions, and availability work together. Whether you're planning a Disney vacation, cruise, family getaway, or another dream trip, this conversation will help you look at vacation pricing from a more informed perspective. Subscribe to the Goofy Getaways Podcast for expert vacation planning advice, travel tips, and destination insights designed to help you travel with confidence. You can find the full show notes for this episode here: https://goofygetaways.com/podcast/the-truth-about-pricing-promotions-and-price-increases-goofy-getaways-podcast-2-7 Want help understanding when to book your specific destination? Our Travel Advisors stay on top of pricing trends, promotions, and availability so you don't have to. Visit goofygetaways.com/bookyourtrip or use the link in the description to get started.

Aug 25

Early Booking vs Last-Minute Booking

When should you book your vacation—and is waiting for a last-minute deal actually the best way to save money? In this mini-episode of the Goofy Getaways Podcast, Amy Blades and the Goofy Getaways team break down the pros and cons of booking early versus waiting until the last minute. While waiting for a deal can sometimes pay off, last-minute booking also comes with tradeoffs that travelers don't always consider. From resort and room availability to cruise cabins, dining reservations, flight options, and overall flexibility, waiting can mean giving up access to the vacation you actually wanted. In this episode, you'll learn: The biggest advantages of booking your vacation earlyWhy more availability can mean better value—not just more choicesHow booking early can make budgeting and payments easierWhen last-minute deals can make senseWhy discounts are never guaranteedThe "discount trap" and how waiting for a deal can sometimes cost you moreWhat happens when popular Disney resorts and cruise cabins start to fill upThe most important question to ask before deciding whether to wait One of the biggest takeaways? A discount doesn't always mean the lowest price. Sometimes, waiting for a promotion means the room, cabin, or itinerary that was actually the best value is no longer available. Whether you're planning a Disney vacation, cruise, family getaway, or another dream trip, this conversation will help you think beyond simply asking, "Will there be a deal?" and instead consider what you're willing to give up while waiting. Subscribe to the Goofy Getaways Podcast for expert vacation planning advice, travel tips, and destination insights designed to help you travel with confidence. You can find the full show notes for this episode here: https://goofygetaways.com/podcast/early-booking-vs-last-minute-booking-goofy-getaways-podcast-2-6 Ready to figure out when you should book? Our Travel Advisors can help you compare your options and build a strategy that fits your vacation goals. Visit goofygetaways.com/bookyourtrip or use the link in the description to get started.

Aug 18

When Is The Best Time To Book Your Vacation?

When should you actually book your vacation—and is waiting for a deal really the best strategy? In Season 2, Episode 2 of the Goofy Getaways Podcast, we tackle one of the biggest questions travelers have when planning a vacation: "When is the best time to book?" Join Amy Blades, Arliss Hammer, and Cindy Presley as they break down why there isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. From Disney vacations and cruises to last-minute getaways, the best booking window depends on where you're going, what matters most to you, and whether you prioritize price, availability, flexibility, or spontaneity. In this episode, you'll learn: The advantages and tradeoffs of booking early versus waiting until the last minuteWhy more availability can sometimes mean better value—not just more choicesHow promotions and discounts actually workWhy waiting for a deal doesn't always mean getting the lowest priceHow booking early can protect your access to the room, cabin, or experience you actually wantWhy vacation prices and availability can change over timeWhat information you should have ready before you're ready to bookHow flexibility with your dates, budget, and priorities can open up more optionsWhy you don't need to have your entire vacation figured out before talking to a Travel Advisor You'll also hear another Traveler Stories segment, featuring the Armbrecht family and their experience working with Goofy Getaways to plan a Disney vacation that was personalized, stress-free, and full of experiences they may have otherwise missed. Want to submit your own Story? Learn more here: https://www.goofygetaways.com/travelerstories Whether you're the type of traveler who likes to plan 18 months in advance or someone who would rather book a getaway six weeks from now, this episode will help you understand what you're really trading when you choose to wait—and how to make smarter booking decisions for the vacation you actually want. Ready to start planning? Visit https://goofygetaways.com/bookyourtrip to connect with one of our experienced Travel Advisors. Whether you're planning a dream Disney vacation, cruise, all-inclusive getaway, or something completely last-minute, we'll help you navigate your options and create a plan that fits your goals. Subscribe to the Goofy Getaways Podcast for expert travel planning tips, destination insights, and real conversations that make vacation planning feel a whole lot easier. You can find the full show notes for this episode here: https://goofygetaways.com/podcast/when-is-the-best-time-to-book-your-vacation

Jul 28

Choosing the Right Travel Advisor

How do you choose the right Travel Advisor for your vacation? Not every Travel Advisor is the right fit—and finding someone who understands your travel style can make all the difference. In this mini-episode of the Goofy Getaways Podcast, Amy Blades and members of the Goofy Getaways team share what travelers should look for when choosing a Travel Advisor, the questions to ask before booking, and the qualities that help create a successful planning partnership. In this episode, you'll learn: * How to choose the right Travel Advisor for your needs * Questions to ask before working with a Travel Advisor * Why communication style matters throughout the planning process * Red flags to watch for when selecting a travel professional * Why destination specialization can lead to a better vacation experience We also discuss why working with an advisor who specializes in your type of vacation—whether that's Disney destinations, cruises, family travel, LGBTQ+ travel, multi-generational vacations, or solo parent travel—can help you feel more confident from the first conversation to the day you return home. Subscribe to the Goofy Getaways Podcast for expert travel planning advice, destination insights, and practical tips to help you plan smarter and travel better. You can find the full show notes for this episode here: https://goofygetaways.com/podcast/choosing-the-right-travel-advisor-goofy-getaways-podcast-episode-2-4

Jul 21

The Real Cost of DIY-ing Your Vacation

Can ChatGPT plan your vacation—or is there still a place for a Travel Advisor? In this mini-episode of the Goofy Getaways Podcast, Amy Blades and members of the Goofy Getaways team explore one of the biggest questions facing travelers today: Can AI replace a Travel Advisor? With more travel information available online than ever before, planning a vacation can quickly become overwhelming. While tools like ChatGPT can be helpful for gathering ideas, they can't replace the personalized guidance, real-world experience, and relationship that comes from working with an experienced Travel Advisor. In this episode, you'll learn: * The strengths and limitations of using AI for travel planning * Why generic travel advice doesn't work for every traveler * How Travel Advisors personalize recommendations based on your goals and travel style * The value of real-life destination experience and ongoing support * Why personalized vacation planning creates a smoother, less stressful travel experience Whether you're planning a Disney vacation, cruise, family getaway, or another bucket-list trip, this conversation explains why technology is a great tool—but not a replacement for expert travel planning. Subscribe to the Goofy Getaways Podcast for practical vacation planning advice, destination insights, and expert tips to help you travel with confidence. You can find the full show notes for this episode here: https://goofygetaways.com/podcast/the-real-cost-of-diy-ing-your-vacation-goofy-getaways-podcast-episode-2-3

Jul 14

Busting Travel Advisor MYTHS

What do Travel Advisors actually do—and are the biggest myths about them keeping you from having a better vacation? In this mini-episode of the Goofy Getaways Podcast, Amy Blades and members of the Goofy Getaways team tackle some of the most common misconceptions about working with a Travel Advisor. Many people assume a Travel Advisor's job is simply to find the cheapest vacation package. In reality, personalized travel planning is about so much more. Our advisors discuss how they help travelers choose the "right" vacation based on their priorities, budget, travel style, and goals—not just the lowest price. In this episode, you'll learn: What a Travel Advisor really doesThe biggest misconceptions about using a Travel AdvisorWhy the cheapest vacation isn't always the best valueHow personalized travel planning helps reduce stress and save timeThe difference expert guidance can make before, during, and after your trip Whether you're planning a Disney vacation, cruise, family getaway, or another dream destination, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how experienced Travel Advisors help travelers create vacations that are easier, more enjoyable, and uniquely tailored to them. Subscribe to the Goofy Getaways Podcast for expert vacation planning advice, travel tips, and destination insights designed to help you travel with confidence. You can find the full show notes for this episode here: https://goofygetaways.com/podcast/busting-travel-advisor-myths-goofy-getaways-podcast-episode-2-2

Jul 7

What's a Travel Advisor Anyway?

What does a Travel Advisor actually do—and do you really need one? In this Season 2 premiere of the Goofy Getaways Podcast, we answer one of the most searched questions in travel planning: "What is a Travel Advisor Anyway?" Join Amy Blades and members of the Goofy Getaways team as they pull back the curtain on what modern travel advisors really do, why personalized vacation planning goes far beyond finding the lowest price, and how working with the right advisor can completely transform your travel experience. From Disney vacations and cruises to multi-generational family trips, LGBTQ+ travel, and more, our advisors share real examples of how customized planning helps travelers save time, reduce stress, avoid costly mistakes, and create vacations that truly fit their goals. In this episode, you'll learn: * What a Travel Advisor does (and doesn't do) * The biggest misconceptions about using a travel advisor * Why personalized travel planning beats generic online advice * Whether ChatGPT and travel websites can replace a real travel advisor * How to choose the right travel advisor for your vacation * What questions to ask before trusting someone with your trip You'll also hear the debut of our new Traveler Stories segment, featuring real experiences from travelers who discovered how expert guidance made their vacations easier, smoother, and more enjoyable. Want to submit your own Story? Learn more here: https://www.goofygetaways.com/travelerstories Whether you're planning your first Disney vacation, comparing cruise options, organizing a family getaway, or simply wondering if working with a Travel Advisor is worth it, this episode offers practical advice to help you travel with confidence. Ready to start planning? Visit https://goofygetaways.com to learn how our experienced Travel Advisors help travelers create personalized vacations to Disney destinations, cruises, all-inclusive resorts, and beyond. Subscribe to the Goofy Getaways Podcast for expert travel planning tips, destination insights, and real conversations that make vacation planning feel a whole lot easier. You can find the full show notes for this episode here: https://goofygetaways.com/podcast/what-is-a-travel-advisor-anyway-goofy-getaways-podcast-episode-21

Goofy Getaways Podcast

So You Want to Be a Travel Advisor?

The Truth About Pricing, Promotions, and Price Increases

Early Booking vs Last-Minute Booking

When Is The Best Time To Book Your Vacation?

Choosing the Right Travel Advisor

The Real Cost of DIY-ing Your Vacation

Busting Travel Advisor MYTHS

What's a Travel Advisor Anyway?

Ratings & Reviews

Fun Disney Podcast!

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Information

Goofy Getaways Podcast

Episodes

So You Want to Be a Travel Advisor?

The Truth About Pricing, Promotions, and Price Increases

Early Booking vs Last-Minute Booking

When Is The Best Time To Book Your Vacation?

Choosing the Right Travel Advisor

The Real Cost of DIY-ing Your Vacation

Busting Travel Advisor MYTHS

What's a Travel Advisor Anyway?

Ratings & Reviews

About

Information