Archive for the ‘Testimonials’ Category
Only one week remains to reserve our Ananda Ayurvedic Spa package and save $300 per couple!
Ananda Spa
Ananda is a world class destination spa located in the foothills of the Himalayas. Among its many accolades, Ananda was awarded the World’s Number One Destination Spa for three consecutive years and listed on Top 10 Worldwide Yoga Retreats. The 21,000 square foot spa offers an exceptional variety of over 80 body and beauty treatments, yoga, and spiritual fitness. Ananda also features rooms, villas and suites that have been infused with natural Himalayan light and overlook the Ganges River, majestic mountains and the sacred city of Rishikesh. Clearly stated, Ananda’s mission is to Energize your Body, Restore your Mind and Calm your Soul.
Jasmine, a Sodha Traveler who visited Ananda earlier this year, said it was “more than a spa. The facilities were exceptional, the cuisine was amazing, and I left feeling absolutely rejuvenated. I would love to return every year to that sense of peace and relaxation and I cannot say enough wonderful things about my experience.”
And remember: Reserve this package in the month of April and receive $300 off per couple!
Calling all travel tips! We are in the process of updating our India and Nepal Destination Guides. We will also be adding a page of travel tips and hot spots, recommended by our travelers! Here are a few examples of recent suggestions:
“If visiting Kerala, be sure to take a cooking class. The region is overflowing with spices and the cuisine is some of the best in the world.” – Jason K.
” Try not to take offence to the looks by the locals. You are a foreigner and it is part of the culture. They are curious, not rude. ” – Barbara A.
“If visiting Delhi, be sure to visit Depauls in Janpath Market near Connaught Place for awesome cold coffee.” – Eliana R.
“Bargaining is an accepted part of the culture, but don’t walk away from a good deal for a few dollars of difference. The vendors depend on the sale for their livelihood and to support their families, and in the end you have a treasured item from your trip.” – Ronald L.
*
Please send your India and Nepal tips/recommendations and contact information to travel@sodhatravel.com by June 1. Thank you for your valued contribution!
I was recently reading an article in the LA Times about a family emergency that required a costly flight change. Due to unexpected circumstances, the passenger lost over $800 and will most likely have none of it refunded by the airline. Although these experiences are frustrating, they are unfortunately becoming all too common. I often discuss the benefits of travel insurance, and this story is just one more example of why it is worth it.
Just last month, we had four clients who became ill or injured abroad and had declined travel insurance coverage. (Thankfully, all have recovered and are doing well.) One traveler – who agreed to share her story anonymously – slipped on a staircase and severely twisted her ankle. Her bill from the hospital was over $1100. The cost of her insurance would have been less than $90. In a follow-up email to our office, she wrote, “If I could, I would be kicking myself. I kept thinking about all the reasons to not purchase insurance, but you can’t prepare for the unknown!”
For some passengers, travel insurance is no longer an option. Many companies now require travelers to purchase a policy as part of their tour package. And yet those with the option still mull over the question of cost vs. benefit: Is insurance worth it?
In my opinion, Yes. Not only do I recommend it to my clients, family members, and friends, but I also make sure to personally purchase coverage before each and every trip abroad. Just like with auto or health insurance, the coverage is not for when things go as planned. The protection is for those unexpected and often costly incidents. And in my many years of travel – on a personal and professional level – I have found that often plans unexpectedly change, someone becomes ill or injured, and/or my flights are cancelled. The cost of my policy is usually only a fraction of what I finally pay out of pocket for airline change fees, hotels, medical assistance, etc – all reimbursed by the insurance company!
Some credit card companies, like American Express, offer insurance coverage to their members. We recommend contacting your card provider to determine the policy inclusions and exclusions. Many plans only offer limited flight and baggage protection, and no coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, or medical expenses.
For more information on policies and coverage, please visit our Travel Insurance page or contact a licensed Sodha Travel representative. Happy Travels!
I recently received a testimonial from Marilyn Fisher, who traveled to India with her family in December. Their itinerary included North and South India: Delhi, Agra, Jaipur, Cochin, Alleppey, and Mararikulam.
Dining on the houseboat
Thank you, Marilyn, and we look forward to coordinating the details of your next Indian experience! We always appreciate client feedback: travel@sodhatravel.com.
Last month, Chris Russo spoke about the value of niche travel at the World Travel Market in London. Chris is the President and Chair of the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA). In his speech, he noted that many travelers can go online to book a weekend trip, but for more complex itineraries or destinations, people continue to rely on travel professionals – and the market is growing.
Specialization requires an in-depth knowledge of a destination that can come from education, personal experiences, or both. As countless testimonials, phone calls and emails can attest, the Indian subcontinent is an area where specialization is not only appreciated but fundamental. When I started Sodha Travel, it was (and remains) my mission to go beyond selling a tour package or customized itinerary. It is about familiarizing the traveler with the destination, setting realistic expectations, and most importantly, being an advocate.
Last week, I received an email from Jilliana Willis. Jilliana had recently returned from our 15-day Walking Trails of Himachal tour. Here is a portion of the email, re-posted with her permission:
As excited as I was to visit India, I had my concerns. Before the trip I wanted to learn as much as possible so I felt prepared. I selected Sodha Travel because your agency appeared to have a real understanding of and appreciation for India. I was not disappointed. You gave me comprehensive information during the planning process and in the weeks before my trip. You had a simple way of communicating the facts and expectations. I also had your Destination Guide with me the entire time and it was so resourceful! You really are India specialists and I thank you for your insight and professionalism. What a delight!
Thank you, Jilliana. We always appreciate the feedback! Send your testimonials to feedback@sodhatravel.com.