The "Escapes by Jen" story:

In August of 2001, I felt as if, as a travel agent, I had been replaced by the internet and the World Wide Web. Who needed a travel consultant, no matter how experienced, when you can do it all yourself on the 'net? I got tired of doing hours of research, finding the best flights, choosing the perfect hotel, and planning a lovely itinerary, only to have my clients take the information and then book for themselves online on a Sunday because they thought they might "miss their chance."

In September of 2001, the entire world changed for all of us, and the travel industry took a heavy hit. For the avid traveler, strict travel restrictions, mistrust of the airlines, and the general unease followed the events of September 11th (and later the Barcelona bombing) had flattened the "Let's Go!" attitude that prevailed for most of the 80s and 90s.

For a while, I didn't miss the travel business, although my friends and family apparently missed me- you never REALLY stop booking travel for your loved ones, you just stop getting paid for it!

Over the last couple of years, however, I seemed to be hearing a different hue and cry from frequent travelers- now instead of extolling the virtues of the internet, I began to hear dissatisfaction and dissent. The mere vastness of the internet was overwhelming to even the seasoned traveler. Too many options, too many false claims, no way to know whom to "trust" on the World Wide Web. "Who has 12 hours to compare this website to that website, this rate to that fare, packaged vacations to booking a la carte ??"

Hmmmmmmmmmmmm, I thought. Maybe the novelty has worn off.

So, late last year I decided to go back to my passion, my lure, the sirens' song that never quite left my head- back to the travel industry. And here I am. Loving it.

The industry has changed quite a bit since my last IATA (International Airlines Travel Agent) card expired in 2003. I learned that, rather than having to work for a traditional "storefront" agency as I had done in Islamorada and Connecticut, that I could have all the benefits of a huge agency behind me, but work from my computer, at home, in an office with fellow agents, or even from my laptop in a pinch. Better yet, my "host agency" has thousands of independent agents working for them, which gives them preferred status with airlines, hotels, tour companies and rental car agencies. Preferred means - for me - a way to make a living doing what I love. Preferred means- for the traveler- access to fantastic discounts, "group" rates and incredible deals which far surpass the popular travel booking engines, AND a real live human being to be your advocate and advisor from planning your trip, through the journey itself, and your safe return home.

I have over 21 years experience in the hotel and travel industries, beginning with Cheeca Lodge in 1987. I have worked for World Wide Sportsman in Islamorada as a Sportfishing Travel Specialist and Leisure Consultant, for Johnny Morris of Bass Pros Shops, and the Herrick Travel Service of Salisbury and Lakeville, Connecticut. Thanks to such fantastic jobs, I have had the opportunities to travel extensively, work with Presidents and celebrities, and fish from Tahiti to Costa Rica, the Keys, Bahamas, and beyond.

I believe that I understand the needs and requirements of new and seasoned travelers alike, and every journey is customized to the individual for a seamless experience.

I am skilled in leisure and corporate travel, groups, tours, independent vacations, weddings and honeymoons, sportfishing, cruises and vacation packages to suit your budget and travel dreams.

Please visit my website at:

www.escapesbyjen.com

and check out last minute specials and deals, sportfishing lodges, business travel, villa rentals and so much more.

Don't just escape . . .
Make it a GREAT ESCAPE!

Bring me your travel dreams, and let's make a reality.

jen@escapesbyjen.com
772 219-0884 (office) 772 485-6367 (cell)
www.escapesbyjen.com