Travel Set Go

Travel Set Go, located at 4445 Eastgate Mall #200 in San Diego, operates with a distinct business model that sets it apart from many traditional travel agencies. Instead of functioning as a typical booking agent, it positions itself as a members-only service, drawing comparisons to a wholesale club like Costco. This approach focuses on providing subscribers access to wholesale rates on a wide range of travel products, a strategy that comes with both significant advantages and points for consideration.

The primary offering is a VIP membership, which costs $199 per year. This membership grants access to what the company claims are wholesale prices on over 400,000 hotels worldwide, car rentals, cruises, and vacation condominiums. The core of their value proposition is bypassing "rate parity," a common practice where hotels provide a consistent retail price to public booking sites. As a private, members-only club, Travel Set Go states it is not bound by these agreements, allowing it to offer lower prices. They back this with a bold guarantee: if a member finds a lower price online after booking, the company promises to refund 110% of the difference.

Services and Accessibility

For its members, Travel Set Go provides a comprehensive suite of services. Beyond just a booking portal, the membership includes a complimentary personal travel consultant, described as a "live travel agent," who can be contacted by phone to assist with trip planning and creating customized itineraries. This blend of a digital platform with human support is a notable feature. The company's operational hours are listed as 24/7, which is a significant benefit for travelers needing immediate assistance or planning across different time zones. Furthermore, its physical office in San Diego is wheelchair accessible, ensuring it can cater to all clients.

The Membership Model: Pros and Cons

The main advantage for a potential customer is clear: the possibility of substantial savings, especially for frequent travelers. The company's website features testimonials from users who praise the easy booking process and the significant discounts they received. The wholesale model could be particularly beneficial for securing deals on luxury travel or extensive vacation packages where savings can be more pronounced.

However, this model requires an upfront financial commitment. The annual fee means that casual travelers might need to calculate whether their potential savings will outweigh the cost of membership. The business is fundamentally geared towards those who travel often enough to make the investment worthwhile. Another critical point of consideration is the company's public reputation and review footprint. The information available shows only a single, textless 5-star Google review from several years ago. While the Better Business Bureau (BBB) gives the business an A+ rating, it also explicitly states that Travel Set Go is not BBB Accredited. This lack of accreditation and the scarcity of recent, detailed independent reviews make it difficult for prospective clients to gauge the consistent quality of service and the actual savings experienced by a broad range of customers.

Final Considerations

Travel Set Go presents an intriguing option within the San Diego travel market. Its 24/7 availability and membership-based wholesale pricing model for booking flights and hotels, cruises, and car rentals could offer real value. The inclusion of a personal travel concierge adds a layer of service not always found with online-only platforms. However, the business operates on a pay-to-play basis, and the limited public feedback is a significant factor. Potential customers should weigh the upfront membership cost against their travel frequency and be prepared to perform their own due diligence. Contacting the agency directly to understand the full scope of their services for international travel or specific destinations would be a prudent step before committing to a membership.