The Travel Company

Based in Tacoma, The Travel Company presents a complex picture for potential clients, embodying both the promise of seasoned expertise and the potential pitfall of inconsistent communication. Operating out of an office on North Proctor Street, this travel agency is owned and operated by Mary Jo Strom Copland, who positions the firm as a highly personal alternative to online booking engines. The agency's website emphasizes a guarantee of personal assistance should anything go wrong during a trip, a commitment that forms the core of its value proposition. It is also IATAN Accredited, suggesting adherence to professional industry standards. However, customer experiences paint two vastly different stories, creating a narrative of caution for anyone considering their services for trip planning.

A History of Professional Service

On one hand, there is evidence of highly effective and professional service. A long-standing review praises Mary Jo as a "true professional" who made the travel experience "easy and pleasant" for a group of friends. This feedback points to a capable travel consultant with the ability to manage group logistics effectively, ensuring a smooth journey. The agency's own marketing reinforces this, promising expertise in corporate accounts, leisure travel, and customized group tours, along with access to special discounts not available online. For travelers seeking meticulously planned customized itineraries or complex cruise bookings, this level of professed expertise is certainly appealing. The business also notes that its physical location has a wheelchair-accessible entrance, an important consideration for inclusivity.

Significant Concerns Regarding Communication

On the other hand, a much more recent client account raises serious red flags. A prospective customer reported having a "wonderful conversation" about their plans, only to be completely "ghosted" by the agent afterward. Despite a follow-up call and a message, there was no response, forcing the client to seek assistance elsewhere. This experience directly contradicts the agency's guarantee of being available and responsive. While the reviewer charitably worried about a health or communication problem, the outcome for the client was the same: a complete breakdown in service.

This incident is particularly concerning given that the business appears to be a small, possibly one-person, operation centered around Mary Jo. While a sole proprietor can offer incredibly personalized service, it also introduces a single point of failure. If the primary agent is unavailable for any reason, clients may be left without support. For those planning significant international travel or investing in expensive vacation packages, this lack of a backup system presents a substantial risk. The stark contrast between a glowing review from six years ago and a critical one from less than a year ago suggests a potential change in the reliability of the service.

Evaluating The Travel Company for Your Needs

When considering The Travel Company, prospective clients are faced with a choice. There is the potential to work with an experienced agent who, at her best, delivers seamless and pleasant travel arrangements. The agency's focus on personal service and industry accreditation is a positive sign. However, the recent report of being ignored after an initial consultation cannot be overlooked. This suggests that while the intention to provide excellent service may be there, the execution can be alarmingly inconsistent.

What to Consider Before Engaging Their Services:

• Communication Protocol: It would be prudent to establish clear expectations for communication from the outset. Inquire about typical response times for emails and phone calls.
• Contingency Plans: Ask what systems are in place if the primary agent becomes unreachable. For a significant trip, knowing there is a backup plan is essential.
• Recent References: Given the age of the positive online feedback, seeking more current client testimonials could provide a more accurate picture of the agency's present performance.

Ultimately, The Travel Company could be a valuable partner for someone seeking a personalized touch from a local tour operator. Yet, the reported communication failure is a serious issue. Travelers planning simple trips might be willing to take the chance, but those organizing complex luxury travel or once-in-a-lifetime journeys to destinations like all-inclusive resorts may find the potential for being left without a response to be an unacceptable risk.