Lauren Casto - Travel Specialist
Hi, I'm Lauren. I'm pretty new to the "travel specialist" title, but definitely seasoned in the adventures of traveling! I am very excited to help you discover new corners of the world, travel with your family to magical destinations, and make vacations feel simple and easy to obtain! I specialize in West Coast US destinations like Lake Tahoe or Disneyland Resorts and European/International vacations. Traveling with kids? Even better, I am well versed in family trips abroad!
ON A SAILBOAT IN ITALY!
As an independent travel agent, I have access to all the booking goodies in the traveling universe.
As a traveler myself, I know you need more than just good deals.
I am here to cover the details you haven't thought of yet & so much more.
Now what do you actually need me for?
Travel Booking.
Yes, this is the biggest part of actually making your vacation happen! Flights, Hotels.. we will chat about when and where and I will find the best deals for you. Travel booking also extends into the entirety of your trip.. trains, rental cars, etc.
Deep dive and prep work.
Especially when traveling with children, large groups, or internationally, you need to know what to expect at your destination. I am here to provide you with interesting and valued knowledge to make your travel experience all that it can be. Providing you with the apps needed for public transportation in a specific area, timetables, restaurant choices, tour options, off-the-beaten-path recommendations, and so much more.
Monitoring travel updates.
Travel details change constantly and I am here and trained to pay attention to those details so you don't have to. Saving you money is important.. and saving you time and worry is even more valuable.
The heavy lifting.
Nope, I won't be showing up at the airport to carry your luggage, but I will have curated a vacation you can feel confident about the moment those bags are packed and ready to go. The details will have been compiled and you will have everything you need for an incredible time abroad!
FAQ's:
Q- How do you get paid?
A- I charge an upfront planning fee of $300 for International travel. This covers my time and expertise in seeking out the information needed to form your perfect itinerary and trip. For most local US trips, the planning fee is $100. Beyond this, I am paid by vendors AFTER your travel. The majority of cost is already built in to your vacation whether you book with an agent or not!
Q- Why should I book with you instead of just doing it myself?
A- My knowledge, expertise, and passion. Not only do I ensure you are getting the vacation you want (and deserve!), but I take the lead to keep your trip on track as far as important dates and correct information/updates. Travel is ever-changing, and we are trained to stay in the know with accurate details.
Long story short, I save you a TON of time and headache!
Q- Can I get a deal with you?
A- Yes, we have access to promotions, but travel agents do not get special pricing. What is more important to you when a once in a lifetime trip comes along- cost or value? Travel agents ARE the deal!
Q- Do you get to travel free as a travel agent?
A- Nope! We keep up to date by paying to travel abroad or visit theme parks on our own to get hands-on experience. Experience is a must with this industry, we see through both an agent and traveler lens this way!
While I will try to respond to emails where I can, I do operate on a "by appointment only" system for travel inquiries.
Please select a Consultation time through the link above. Thank you!
