Destinations
BackLocated in South Jordan, Utah, Destinations Inc. has established itself as a specialized travel agency with a strong focus on corporate and group travel. With a history spanning three generations under the Lambert family, the agency has built a reputation reflected in overwhelmingly positive client feedback. However, like any business, it has specific areas of expertise and operational characteristics that potential clients should consider.
Core Strengths and Services
The primary value of Destinations Inc. lies in its comprehensive management of complex travel arrangements for businesses. Their main services revolve around creating and executing incentive travel programs, corporate meetings, and large group excursions. Testimonials consistently praise the agency's meticulous attention to detail, noting that every aspect of a trip is orchestrated to remove the burden from the client. This is a significant advantage for companies planning retreats or conferences for large numbers of employees, where logistics can become overwhelming. The agency's team handles everything from hotel sourcing and air reservation management to planning unique on-site activities and managing food and beverage requirements.
A recurring theme in customer reviews is the agency's ability to deliver a personalized and high-quality experience. Clients have used their services for over two decades, highlighting a consistency that builds long-term trust. One notable account involves the agency's exceptional handling of special accommodations for a traveler in a wheelchair, ensuring they were fully integrated into all group activities. This points to a deeper level of care and problem-solving that goes beyond standard booking services, positioning them as proficient travel planner experts for trips with specific needs.
Specialization in Corporate and Group Travel
Destinations Inc. explicitly markets itself as a partner for businesses looking to motivate their teams. Their philosophy, "Memories Motivate," is central to their approach in crafting corporate travel experiences that are not just logistically sound but also impactful. They offer a full suite of services tailored to this market, including:
- Custom Production: They design trip logos, itineraries, and even smartphone apps to create a cohesive event identity.
- Event Websites & Registration: To streamline communication and gather attendee information efficiently.
- On-site Management: A dedicated team is present during the event to handle any issues that arise, allowing clients to focus on their objectives.
- Leisure Travel Concierge: While their main focus is corporate, they also offer services for individuals and families seeking a professionally managed vacation.
This deep focus means they have extensive industry knowledge and relationships, which can lead to better venue sourcing and vendor negotiations than a company might achieve on its own.
Potential Drawbacks and Considerations
While the agency receives high praise, there are practical aspects for potential customers to weigh. The most significant is their operational schedule. Destinations Inc. operates on weekdays, closing at 5:00 PM from Monday to Thursday and at noon on Fridays. They are closed entirely on weekends. For corporate clients, this is often manageable, but for individual travelers or in the event of an urgent, off-hours travel issue, this lack of weekend availability could present a challenge. A traveler facing a flight cancellation on a Saturday would not have immediate access to their agent.
Another point to consider is their niche focus. Their expertise is clearly in highly structured, full-service group vacation packages and corporate events. A solo traveler or a couple looking for simple cruise deals or basic flight bookings might find the agency's comprehensive approach more than what they require. Their services are designed for complexity, which may not be the best fit for those seeking straightforward or all-inclusive vacation packages without extensive planning needs.
Furthermore, information from the Better Business Bureau (BBB) indicates the business is not accredited and holds an A- rating, with the rating reason cited as a failure to respond to one complaint. While the vast majority of online reviews are glowing, this single piece of data from a third-party organization is worth noting for those conducting thorough due diligence.
Final Assessment
Destinations Inc. stands out as a highly capable and experienced travel management company for the corporate sector. Their long family legacy, proven track record with complex group logistics, and profound attention to detail make them an excellent choice for businesses aiming to create memorable and seamless incentive trips and meetings. The personal touch, evidenced by their handling of special needs and long-standing client relationships, adds a significant layer of trust.
However, the agency's strengths in the corporate world define its limitations for other types of clients. The restrictive office hours and specialized focus mean it is likely not the ideal travel agency for individuals seeking budget options, last-minute bookings, or support outside of standard business hours. Prospective clients should align their needs with the agency's clear expertise in orchestrated group and corporate travel to ensure a successful partnership.