Ep.162 – Jill Benedict – How to Master and Save Money on Family Vacations
I am often asked how families master planning for vacation from a financial and experience standpoint.
Jill Benedict, a seasoned travel agent who runs a unique travel agency, emphasizes that vacations aren't just about booking trips—they are about creating memorable experiences that align with personal and financial goals.
Jill shares her insights on navigating family cruises, optimizing vacation costs, and making the most of the trip experiences. I have personally found that working with someone like Jill makes vacation planning less stressful while creating some unexpected enjoyable moments. Jill sheds light on the benefits of using a travel agent, from saving money to accessing exclusive perks, and how her hands-on travel experiences inspire her clients.
Life is full of transitions, so we delve into Jill's journey from corporate marketing to running her own successful travel agency. Jill shares personal stories highlighting the significance of supportive relationships and the true essence of balancing life's emotional and financial aspects in travel and life.
Please enjoy my conversation with Jill Benedict.
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And feel free to email Paul at pfenner@tammacapital.com with any feedback, questions, or ideas for future guests and topics.
ADDITIONAL RESOURCES YOU MAY LIKE
1 Big Idea to Think About
Your dream Disney vacation can actually be a budget-friendly, stress-free reality by mastering the art of family travel planning.
1 Way You Can Apply This
Contacting a knowledgeable travel agent can give you access to lower rates and additional perks that you might not find on your own. A travel agent will provide comprehensive quotes including room, ticket packages, and potential enhancements, ensuring you are knowledgeable about extra costs like dining plans. This assistance will enable you to align your vacation spending with your personal and financial goals, alleviating unneeded stress and avoiding surprise expenses during your trip.
1 Question to Ask
How do should I approach managing personal and financial goals for a family vacation?
Key Moments From the Show
05:42 Jill explains how family cruise configurations can alter prices and the importance of finding the best deals.
08:23 Paul discusses his financial advice philosophy and the alignment of spending with personal and financial goals.
12:37 Jill offers comprehensive vacation quotes, including room and ticket packages along with potential enhancements.
15:29 Insight into the Disney Dining Plan and application based on family habits.
18:16 Jill saved $1,000 for Paul's family by reconfiguring their room arrangements.
21:10 Explanation of agency fee structures and how Jill’s agency offers additional benefits without extra cost.
23:54 Advantages of early booking to secure lowest prices and that's generally better than later promotions.
28:22 Discussion about Jill's personal travel story and transition from a marketing job to running her travel agency.
32:48 Jill’s approach to balancing work and personal relationships; emotional burnout and recovery.
35:17 Challenges and tips for large families to find suitable accommodation configurations at Disney resorts and cruises.
37:52 Trends in multi-generational trips funded by grandparents post-COVID.
40:31 Strategies for working with diverse client budgets and preferences in travel planning.
59:47 Final thoughts on diversifying travel services, covering all-inclusive resorts, and cruise lines.
Resources Featured in This Episode:
Wishes and Wonders Travel Agency
Aligning Your Spending and Time with Your True Values
Life is in the Transitions: Mastering Change at Any Age