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So you've finally secured that long-awaited leave and it's time to book a well-earned holiday from work.
You could turn to the overwhelming amount of information on the internet - but how can you know which sites are reputable and which reviews are real?
Experienced travellers know visiting a professional and skilled travel agent is a great way to get the best value for money, personal advice and a bespoke vacation plan.
That's what the team at South Coast Cruise and Travel in Nowra offers. The business, located at 21 Kinghorne Street, Nowra, has been servicing the local community for 35 years.
Managing director Lindy Herron has been with the company as owner since 2001 and has a team of five highly accredited and educated employees.
"We are a full service agency, specialising in cruising and unique itineraries," she said.
The company offers bespoke products, including TripADeal and CruiseCo packages.
"Being the largest and broadest distributor of cruise products in the Southern Hemisphere enables CruiseCo to develop exclusive fly/cruise/stay holiday experiences at great value, ensuring savvy holiday-makers can choose from the best cruise holiday deals available in market and, one-of-a-kind festivals at sea travel experiences on-board our Music Cruises," Mrs Herron said.
"TripADeal offers something for everyone. The ethos is to deliver quality travel experiences that are easily accessible and hassle free. We have an exclusive arrangement with TripADeal to sell their offers to the public."
As a proudly third generation, local family of travel agents in Nowra, South Coast Cruise and Travel knows cruising well and has built its reputation on cruising itineraries.
"We are committed to giving you the best possible service, by anticipating your expectations to ensure our responsibilities and promises are executed to the highest of standards," Mrs Herron said.
"Our main objective is to obtain outstanding results for your financial benefit. Each itinerary is developed by using the most advanced, integrated reservations facilities available and individually tailored to suit each client."
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Because today's traveller is busy, seeking more choice, personalisation, flexibility and connectivity than ever before, they expect a service delivery that is timely and professional offering unique ideas in the travel landscape, Mrs Herron explained.
"On the face of the influence of the internet, the travel agency could seem slightly redundant," Mrs Herron said.
"It may seem increasingly difficult to pinpoint a unique selling point for our travel agency in the face of such overwhelming statistics, but travel agents can still add value for their customers by providing a personal touch."
Mrs Herron went on to say travel agents were constantly demonstrating the added value they offer as well as providing excellent customer service, through being highly accredited, widely travelled and educated.
"Clients are commonly surprised by the adept computer skills by the younger consultants. Our consultants have travelled extensively and are happy to share their experiences and tips for their fellow travellers. They facilitate efficiently and effectively," she said.
"Great advice from an experienced and trusted agent can prove to be far more valuable than an anonymous comment on a travel review site. And this is why it's so important for agencies to invest in their people which is testimony to the value that you get at South Coast Cruise and Travel."
Mrs Herron also gives back to her clients in many ways, offering pre-departure exclusive dinners to her groups, which is a wonderful way for the clients to mix and meet each other.
The travel agency is also involved strongly in its community, with Mrs Herron chair of the CBD Promotions Committee.
She worked as an emergency department registered nurse at Shoalhaven District Memorial Hospital for many years, and has a caring nature that shows in her high repeat clientele returning as loyal customers.
Mrs Herron has previously supported many local events, including the Berry Celtic Festival, Berry Small Farm Field Days, information events at Quest and Travel Under the Stars at Silos.
She has also been a past Berry Rotarian and sponsored many clubs, including Callala Bay Golf Club, and was on radio with Barry Mac in 2ST for many years.
Previously a mentor for Shoalhaven Women in Business, Mrs Herron has helped other women grow their capabilities and business acumen.