Lakeshore-Trekkers Travel

Lakeshore-Trekkers Travel, located at 3450 Lakeshore Avenue in Oakland, California, is a long-standing travel agency with deep roots in the industry. Operating since 1975 under the name Lakeshore Travel and also as Trekkers, Inc., this agency has built a reputation over several decades. Unlike many modern agencies that focus on a broad digital interface, Lakeshore-Trekkers positions itself as a wholesale travel company, a model that leverages significant purchasing power to offer discounts directly to the public. This approach defines much of its service offerings and is a critical factor for potential clients to consider when evaluating if this is the right fit for their travel needs.

The Strengths: Experience and Specialization

The most significant advantage offered by Lakeshore-Trekkers Travel is its extensive experience. Having been in business for nearly half a century, the agency possesses a level of industry knowledge and stability that newer companies may lack. This longevity suggests a consistent ability to navigate the complex world of international travel and build lasting relationships with suppliers. The Better Business Bureau (BBB) gives the company an A+ rating, which, while separate from accreditation, indicates a strong track record in handling customer interactions and business practices.

The agency’s core strength lies in its wholesale model, which is particularly beneficial for certain types of travel. They specialize in securing discount airfares to a wide array of destinations, including Africa, South America, Asia, Europe, the South Pacific, and the Middle East. This can be a major draw for travelers whose primary concern is finding cost-effective flights for long-haul journeys. Their focus isn't just on flights; they are heavily involved in providing complex vacation packages. They offer specialty tours that cater to specific interests, such as adventure travel in the form of African safaris, and unique experiences like journeys on the Orient Express, The Blue Train, or Rovos Rail. This curated selection of unique tours positions them as more than just a booking agent, but as a knowledgeable travel consultant.

Furthermore, their expertise in cruise bookings is extensive. The agency advertises discounts and special offers, including two-for-one deals. Their cruise destinations are global, covering everything from the icy waters of Alaska and Antarctica to the tropical warmth of the Caribbean, the historic Mediterranean, and the exotic Amazon. This wide range of options makes them a valuable resource for both first-time cruisers and seasoned sea travelers looking for unique itineraries. One customer review noted that their trips are well-suited for older travelers who appreciate the comfort, ease, and support provided by well-informed guides, suggesting a focus on well-managed and secure travel experiences.

Key Service Offerings

To provide a clearer picture of their capabilities, here is a breakdown of the types of travel services Lakeshore-Trekkers Travel focuses on:

• Discount International Airfare: Access to wholesale pricing for flights to continents across the globe.
• Specialty Tours: A focus on unique and high-interest tours, including African safaris and luxury train travel.
• Cruise Packages: A vast portfolio of cruise bookings to destinations worldwide, often with special discount offers.
• Customized Travel Planning: While they operate on a wholesale model, their services inherently involve planning complex trips that go beyond simple point-and-click booking.
• Family Vacations: The broader Lakeshore Travel brand also assists with planning trips suitable for the whole family.
• All-Inclusive Resorts: They can arrange stays at resorts where lodging, meals, and activities are bundled into one price.
• Honeymoon Packages: Assisting couples in planning romantic getaways and destination weddings is another facet of their service.

Points for Consideration

While the agency has many strengths, there are important factors that potential clients should weigh. The most notable is that Lakeshore-Trekkers Travel is not an accredited business with the Better Business Bureau. It is crucial to understand what this means. Non-accreditation does not imply a poor reputation—in fact, their A+ rating from the same organization suggests the opposite. Rather, it means the business has not sought out BBB accreditation or agreed to adhere to their specific set of standards and vetting process. Clients who place a high value on this specific third-party endorsement should take this into account.

The agency's business model, which appears to lean towards a more traditional, personalized service via phone and in-person consultation, may also be a deciding factor. Their website is functional but straightforward, primarily serving as a source of information rather than a sophisticated online booking portal. For travelers who prefer the immediacy and anonymity of booking everything themselves online, this more personal and potentially slower-paced approach might feel dated. Conversely, for those who feel overwhelmed by online options and value the expertise of a human travel consultant, this is a distinct advantage. The process likely involves more conversation and less independent clicking, which is ideal for planning complicated, multi-stop itineraries but less so for a simple weekend hotel booking.

Finally, the nature of a "wholesale" or "discount" model can sometimes come with trade-offs. While the prices may be competitive, the packages might have less flexibility regarding dates, airlines, or specific accommodations compared to a premium, fully bespoke luxury travel planner who builds everything from scratch. The value here is in the pre-negotiated deals they can access, which is excellent for cost-savings but may not suit travelers who want complete control over every minute detail of their itinerary.

Who is This Agency Best For?

Lakeshore-Trekkers Travel is likely an ideal choice for a specific type of traveler. Those planning complex, multi-destination trips, especially to the exotic locations they specialize in, will benefit greatly from their expertise. Anyone interested in unique tour experiences, such as luxury rail journeys or comprehensive safaris, would find a knowledgeable partner in this agency. Furthermore, bargain hunters looking for competitive deals on cruises and international airfare, who are willing to work within the packages offered, will find significant value. The agency also appears to be a strong option for mature travelers who prioritize well-supported, comfortable, and thoroughly planned trips with reliable guidance. However, the digitally-native traveler who wants to manage their bookings through an app or who is planning a simple, straightforward trip may find that the agency's traditional approach is not aligned with their preferences.