Big Sky Travel Source
BackBig Sky Travel Source, an Oklahoma City-based travel agency, presents a mixed but largely experienced profile for potential clients. In operation since 1994, the agency boasts a significant amount of collective industry experience—over 80 years combined among its agents. This longevity suggests a deep-seated knowledge of the travel industry and a stable presence in the market. The agency operates from its office on Northwest Expressway and is open on weekdays from 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It is not accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB), which notes it doesn't have sufficient information to issue a rating.
Areas of Specialization and Services
The agency has carved out a niche in specific types of travel, with a strong focus on destination weddings and honeymoon planning. For couples looking to plan these significant life events, Big Sky Travel Source offers dedicated specialists to assist with the process, from selecting a location to coordinating the details. Their popular destinations include Hawaii, Mexico, the Caribbean, and various European countries, indicating a breadth of experience in these highly sought-after vacation spots. Beyond romantic getaways, the agency also handles family group travel and trips for solo travelers, covering a range of travel styles from Caribbean cruises to Disney World excursions. They pride themselves on their ability to create customized itineraries and offer exclusive deals through established relationships with resorts and other travel partners.
Positive Customer Feedback
Many clients have reported positive experiences, highlighting the value of using a seasoned travel consultant. One particularly glowing review detailed an exceptional honeymoon planned with agent Rosie, who recommended a resort in the Dominican Republic that far exceeded the couple's expectations. This client emphasized that they would not have found such a perfect location on their own and will rely on the agency for future trips. Another customer praised agents Ms. Denise and Ms. Judy for their proactive assistance, noting that they were readily available to handle any issues that arose during their trip, making the entire process smooth and worry-free. A different review specifically commended agent Shannon Wilkerson for her helpful and educated responses when planning a large family trip to Playa Del Carmen, calling her the best agent at the agency.
Negative Customer Experiences and Criticisms
However, not all feedback has been positive. The agency has faced criticism regarding professionalism and service delivery. One prospective client, planning an international wedding, recounted a negative in-person meeting with an agent named Denise. The client described the office as disorganized and felt the agent was unprofessional, taking a phone call during their scheduled meeting, failing to make eye contact, and bringing up inappropriate social and political topics. This experience led them to decide against using the agency.
Another significant complaint involved agent Shannon Wilkerson, the same agent praised in another review. A client booking a family vacation to Cancun with a specific need for a handicap-accessible room was assured the arrangements were made. Upon arrival, however, the requested room was not available, and the family faced multiple room changes and a great deal of stress. The client felt that Ms. Wilkerson did not take responsibility, instead blaming the resort and its representatives, and was unresponsive when issues arose during the trip. This contradictory feedback on the same agent underscores a potential inconsistency in service quality.
Company Structure and Operations
Big Sky Travel Source is located at 2601 Northwest Expy #105w in Oklahoma City. The business is managed by owner Judy Reinauer, with Robert Reinauer listed as President. The agency’s long history is a testament to its ability to navigate the evolving tourism industry. They cater to various budgets, offering everything from luxury vacations to more affordable weekend trips. Their service offerings include a la carte wedding planning, which allows clients to pick and choose the services they need.
Conclusion for Prospective Clients
For travelers considering Big Sky Travel Source, the decision involves weighing the benefits of their extensive experience and specialization against the risks highlighted by negative reviews. The agency's expertise in all-inclusive vacation packages and complex arrangements like destination weddings is a clear advantage. Positive testimonials speak to agents who are knowledgeable, helpful, and capable of resolving issues effectively. Conversely, the negative experiences point to potential issues with professionalism, communication, and consistency. The lack of BBB accreditation is another factor to consider. Potential customers should be prepared to communicate their expectations clearly and may want to inquire about the specific agent who will be handling their booking, given the varied experiences reported. Ultimately, Big-Sky-Travel-Source offers a potentially valuable service, particularly for specialized trips, but clients should proceed with a clear understanding of the mixed feedback.