Going Places, Inc

Located at 28 Mountain Rd in Glen Burnie, Maryland, Going Places, Inc. has established itself as a durable and highly regarded travel agency with a history spanning approximately five decades. Founded in 1973 by John Hicks, the business is now a second-generation family-owned operation run by Emily Hicks, continuing a long tradition of service. This agency has garnered a strong positive reputation, reflected in its high customer satisfaction ratings and a significant number of loyal, repeat clients. For travelers who prioritize expert consultation and detailed handling of their arrangements, this agency presents a compelling option, though it comes with a service model that differs from the instant, self-serve nature of online booking platforms.

The Core Strengths: Service and Expertise

The overwhelming consensus among clients is that the primary asset of Going Places, Inc. is its team of dedicated and knowledgeable travel agents. Customer testimonials frequently name specific agents—such as Emily, Effie, and Keri—and credit them with creating seamless and memorable travel experiences. This level of personalized service is a recurring theme. For instance, clients have highlighted agent Keri's patience in handling specific needs and Effie’s meticulous attention to detail in planning a dream trip to Oahu. This personal touch provides a significant sense of security; one first-time client noted the comfort of knowing that assistance was available at any time, day or night, regardless of time zone differences. This kind of assurance is often a key differentiator for those choosing a traditional agency over an online algorithm.

This expertise extends to crafting a wide array of vacation packages. Reviews indicate successful planning for diverse trip types, including anniversary getaways to St. Vincent, girls' trips, and complex family vacations. The agency's ability to manage group travel is evident, with reports of flawless coordination of reservations, documents, and transfer services, often handled entirely remotely via computer and phone. This flexibility demonstrates an adaptation to modern client needs while retaining a classic, high-touch service model.

Long-Term Relationships and Trust

Perhaps the most significant indicator of the agency's quality is its base of long-term, loyal customers. Several reviews come from individuals and families who have used their services for over 15 years. This longevity speaks volumes about the agency's reliability and consistency. Clients repeatedly use words like "fantastic," "amazing," and "reliable" to describe their experiences. They trust the agents' advice on destinations and feel confident that the agency will secure the best value, ensuring travel is not only enjoyable but also safe and properly insured. This established trust is a cornerstone of their business, transforming first-time customers into lifelong clients who would not consider planning a trip with anyone else.

Areas of Specialization and Service Offerings

Going Places, Inc. operates as a full-service travel agency, capable of arranging a broad spectrum of travel experiences. Their website and client feedback point to proficiency in several key areas:

• Honeymoon Packages and Destination Weddings: The agency actively markets its ability to plan romantic getaways, positioning itself as an expert in creating dream honeymoons and managing the logistics of destination weddings.
• Cruises and All-Inclusive Resorts: These popular vacation styles are a core part of their offerings, with agents possessing the industry relationships needed to secure good value and amenities for their clients.
• Customized Itineraries: For travelers seeking unique experiences, the agency develops personalized customized itineraries. This can range from adventure travel in Alaska to cultural tours in Italy.
• International Travel: The team demonstrates the capability to handle complex international travel, managing everything from flights and transfers to tours in destinations across the globe.

The agency’s affiliation with the Better Business Bureau, where it holds an A+ rating, further solidifies its standing as a reputable and trustworthy business.

Potential Considerations and Limitations

While the feedback for Going Places, Inc. is predominantly positive, potential clients should be aware of certain operational aspects that may not suit every traveler's preferences. These are not necessarily flaws, but rather characteristics of their business model that contrast with other travel planning methods.

Office Hours and Accessibility

The agency operates on a traditional weekday schedule, from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM, Monday through Friday, and is closed on Saturdays and Sundays. For individuals with demanding weekday jobs, scheduling an in-person or even phone consultation during these hours could be challenging. This structure favors clients who have flexibility during the standard workweek. While one review did praise the ability to plan a trip entirely remotely, the lack of weekend availability for direct agent contact is a practical limitation to consider.

A Service-Oriented, Not Self-Service, Model

Going Places, Inc. is built on the expertise of its agents. The process involves consultation, professional advice, and having an expert handle the booking details. This is ideal for those who feel overwhelmed by online research or want the security of a professional advocate. However, it is not designed for the traveler who prefers to have direct control over their bookings and enjoys the process of comparing flights and hotels on their own through online travel sites. The agency does not feature an online booking engine for clients to self-serve, which means every inquiry and booking is facilitated through an agent. This deliberate, hands-on approach is a strength for many but could be perceived as a slower process for those accustomed to instant online confirmations.

Handling of External Disruptions

A small number of negative reviews found on platforms outside the primary Google profile highlight potential friction points, particularly when third-party suppliers like airlines cause disruptions. One client expressed frustration with communication delays when an airline issue had to be resolved through the agency rather than directly. Another reported a booking error for a diving course and a subsequent delay in receiving a refund. These instances, while not representative of the majority of feedback, underscore a known reality of using intermediaries: when problems arise with the ultimate service provider (the airline, the hotel, the tour operator), the resolution process involves an extra layer of communication. Clients who prefer to deal directly with vendors in such situations might find this model restrictive.

Conclusion

Going Places, Inc. stands out as a deeply experienced and client-centric travel agency. Its greatest assets are its seasoned travel agents, a proven track record of successful trip planning, and an exceptionally loyal customer base. For travelers in the Glen Burnie area and beyond who value expert guidance, personalized service, and the peace of mind that comes from having a professional manage the complexities of travel, this agency is a formidable choice. The business model is best suited for those who see travel planning as a collaborative process with an expert, rather than a do-it-yourself task. While the limited office hours and the intermediary role in problem-solving are valid points to consider, the overwhelming evidence points to a business that consistently delivers high-quality, memorable travel experiences.