In this age of do-it-yourself online travel booking, many people have forgotten about the benefits of using a travel agent. With their immense resources, level of personal service, and wealth of knowledge, they can help with some of the research and legwork involved in planning the ideal gluten-free trip. Keep in mind, it doesn't cost any more to use a travel agent than booking direct with a travel provider, and nine times out of ten, they can save you money by accessing deals you may not be aware of.
I've personally used a travel agent that a family member referred me to almost five years ago, and I'd recommend her as a valuable resource if you want to save yourself some time (and money) planning an upcoming trip. Her name is Doreen Costa, and she's with Travel Leaders' Boston office (not to worry if you're not a Bostonian...neither am I. All my contact with her has been via phone or email over the years.) Their number is 800-487-6110.
Best of all, Doreen's specialties include Caribbean travel, cruises, and Disney vacations, which we all know are popular and safe options if you're traveling gluten-free. Doreen has a working knowledge of gluten-free diets from dealing with our family and can help you find the best options for lodging and dining. Just be sure to mention you heard about her through GlutenFreeTravelSite so she takes extra special care of you!
So why not investigate some Summer and Fall travel deals (there are so many right now!)...or get a head-start on your Holiday or Winter plans? Get some ideas on GlutenFreeTravelSite.com by reading gluten-free reviews of hotels/resorts, cruises, and restaurants in the destinations that beckon you. Once you find some options that seem Celiac-friendly, give Doreen or another travel agent you might know a call to see what deals they can find for you.
And this summer, whether you're traveling near or far, don't forget to periodically visit our Gluten Free Restaurant Menus list to remind you of all the national and regional chain restaurants with gluten-free menus (check out Rosa Mexicano, the latest addition to our list). And please...take a few minutes to share your thoughts about anywhere you've dined gluten-free by submitting a review to GlutenFreeTravelSite.com!
