Shooting Star Travels

Located on North Main Street in West Bend, Wisconsin, Shooting Star Travels has been a fixture in the local travel industry since its establishment in 1995. The agency, led by President and Owner Peggy A. Fischer, aims to provide first-class service, a goal reflected in the decades of loyalty from many of its clients. Operating on a weekday schedule from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, the agency focuses on direct client interaction, though it remains closed on weekends. This schedule may require clients to plan their visits and calls during standard business hours.

Client Experiences and Service Reputation

The reputation of any travel agency is built on client feedback, and Shooting Star Travels presents a complex picture. On one hand, the agency receives high praise for its personalized service, deep industry knowledge, and ability to secure significant savings for its customers. Multiple long-term clients express immense satisfaction, with one customer highlighting a relationship spanning nearly 30 years with Peggy Fischer. This client specifically noted an instance where Peggy provided assistance on a Sunday to resolve an airline issue, demonstrating a commitment that extends beyond typical office hours. Another client shared an experience of saving almost $2,000 on a Punta Cana vacation package compared to a widely advertised deal from a larger competitor.

Newer clients also report positive outcomes. One first-time user, initially skeptical about using a travel consultant, was impressed by the quick turnaround and value offered. They received a comprehensive plan within a day of their initial inquiry and found the final price to be lower than major online booking sites like Expedia, even with an upgraded room and travel protection included. The agent's proactive step of contacting the hotel to arrange special accommodations for an anniversary trip further illustrates a level of detailed, personal service that many travelers seek.

Areas of Concern: A Critical Incident

However, the agency's record is not without serious criticism. A deeply concerning review details a significant failure in service during a $20,000 trip to Hawaii planned for a handicapped traveler. According to the report, the agency failed to book or confirm a handicapped-accessible room for the first two nights of the trip, leaving the traveler without access to a proper shower or toilet. The issues continued with a booked excursion where a non-ADA compliant bus was sent, causing the traveler to miss a planned activity. The trip concluded with what was described as a "ridiculous" 12-hour wait at the airport post-cruise, pointing to poor logistical travel planning, especially for a client with mobility challenges.

This incident raises critical questions about the agency's processes for handling trips with specific accessibility needs. For potential clients requiring accessible travel arrangements, this report serves as a major point of caution. It suggests that while the agency may excel at standard bookings, its attention to detail for complex, specialized requirements may be inconsistent. This is a significant factor for travelers with disabilities and their families to consider when selecting a travel specialist.

Agency Perspective and Operations

Shooting Star Travels is a full-service agency with a team of consultants, including Peggy Fischer, Megan Ellis, and Evelyn Horner, each with their own areas of expertise. The business has maintained an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau, although it is not BBB accredited. A defense of the agency comes from another experienced traveler who argues that some negative experiences, such as subpar resort quality or last-minute flight changes by airlines, are outside a travel agent's control. While this is a valid point in the travel industry, the specific failures cited in the negative review—such as booking appropriate rooms and transportation—typically fall squarely within the responsibilities of the planning agent.

The agency's website and client testimonials emphasize its ability to handle various types of trips, from honeymoons and family vacations to group travel. They position themselves as experts in creating customized travel itineraries for destinations worldwide, including all-inclusive resorts and complex multi-destination journeys. The team's stated commitment is to work closely with clients to ensure a positive experience, which aligns with the feedback from their many satisfied customers.

Final Considerations for Potential Clients

Ultimately, Shooting Star Travels presents two distinct narratives. For the majority of travelers seeking well-planned vacations, cruise packages, or assistance with booking flights and hotels, the agency appears to be a reliable and valuable resource. The long-standing relationships with repeat clients and stories of exceptional, above-and-beyond service from Peggy and her team are compelling testaments to their strengths. Their ability to find deals and add personal touches is a significant draw.

Conversely, the severe lapse in managing an accessible travel itinerary is a substantial red flag. It highlights a potential weakness that cannot be overlooked. Prospective customers, particularly those with special needs, should approach with caution and engage in very detailed, explicit communication to confirm that all accessibility requirements are understood and have been contractually secured with vendors. Verifying these details independently may be a prudent step. The agency's value seems to lie in its personal touch and industry experience, but clients must ensure this expertise is diligently applied to all critical aspects of their specific travel plans.