If you are stumped for gift ideas this holiday season, why not give the gift of travel! Who wouldn’t want to find a trip down south, an Alaskan cruise, or a gift card to the world under the tree on Christmas Day? Travel is a unique product, and can be given with love and thoughtfulness. Your Merit Travel Consultant will help you navigate the options available to find something just right for the loved ones on your holiday shopping list.

When giving the gift of travel, there are a few things to consider…

• Make it personal: What kind of travel would your recipient enjoy? Lying on a beach? Small ship cruising? Something more cultural or active, perhaps?
• Make it realistic: How long would they be able to travel for? A week? A month? Do you need to schedule the travel around any prior engagements/commitments?
• Make Sure: While cancellation insurance is terrific to protect against unexpected illness, etc., it does not generally cover a ‘change of mind’, so if you’re booking travel that comes with a penalty for changes or cancellations – make certain that you’re 100% sure

So what is a gift-giver to do? Here are some great suggestions for the traveller on your list:

• A Gift Certificate: With a Merit Travel Gift Certificate – there are literally endless possibilities to explore the world and to choose a travel experience that fits the recipient’s needs to a tee. Gift Certificates are also great ideas for people who have already booked travel, but may need extra services such as a hotel night, or an event ticket (such as theatre or sports) to enhance their trip. Additionally, Gift Certificates can be pooled among several gift-givers, creating a “travel registry”, which can be especially useful for honeymooners or families for example. To personalize the Gift Certificate, why not throw in some specialized brochures catered to trips you know the recipient would enjoy!
  
• Cruises:  Know someone who is just dying to take a cruise? Most major cruise lines allow bookings to be held with a relatively small deposit, which is refundable without conditions prior to the date when payment in full is due. The exact period of time in advance of the cruise departure date will vary by cruise line. This unique feature allows you to give something very specific and special, without locking you or the recipient into a reservation that cannot be changed.

The other alternative, of course, is to give travel as a gift, but not as a surprise! Include your recipient in the planning process, and your gift will result in some quality time together, and will be sure to please.

Stop by one of our three Merit Travel Victoria offices to take a look at some options for your holiday list, and while you’re there, why not check out some travel experiences for you! Whatever option you choose, your Merit Travel Consultant is available to guide you through every step, to ensure you give (…or get!) the experience of a lifetime.

For more Information;
www.merit.ca