Page 22 - AAA Every Day – AAA Hudson Valley – May/June 2019

TRAVELER’S GUIDE
Travel Agent Spotlight:
AAA Every Day sat down with AAA Travel Agent Angela Margiotta to learn more about her.
AAA Every Day: How long have you been in the travel industry?
Angela Margiotta: I have been in the travel industry for more than 30 years. In my early years I worked at the front desk of the Omni Royal Orleans hotel in New Orleans’ French Quarter, since hotel and tourism was my college major. Fast forward five years and I began my career as a travel agent with AAA Hudson Valley; planning exciting vacations and meeting nice people along the way.
AED: Are there any particular destinations you have loved most?
AM: I have been a lot of places in my many years as a travel agent, but I would say one of my most favorite trips of late was a river cruise along the Danube (River). Visiting the quaint villages and experiencing the culture and wonderful food and people was definitely a highlight. I also love Italy and have been there a few times, so both are equally great in their own way.
AED: What is your favorite type of travel to book for clients?
AM: I enjoy booking clients on escorted tours, since I know they will get an experienced tour director who will not only teach the history, but also will help if they have
Angela is pictured here enjoying the beauty of Jamaica at Sandals South Coast.
an emergency, or just want to see where their ancestors were born. It also is the best value for my clients, as it is close to an all-inclusive vacation with only a few extras
to pay while away (some meals and optional excursions). When you do an escorted tour, you will still have free time to do as you like, but you also will see all the must-see places that you would have to pay out-of-pocket, so the planning has been done for you.
I also enjoy booking river cruises since most clients come back with a wonderful story to tell. I enjoy hearing their stories and living vicariously through them, and many times they so enjoyed the experience, they will end up booking another vacation with me.
AED: Do you have any expert tips for travelers planning this type of trip?
AM: I would advise my clients when planning their vacation to use our AAA office for all the extras. We take passport pictures and sell foreign currency, Traveler’s Cheques and the Visa MemberPay card (especially for travel abroad, however, it can be used in the states as well). We also carry items to make travel easier and more efficient, from luggage, converters and adapters to maps and tour books, to name a few.
AED: Is there anything else you want out readers to know?
AM: Our AAA Visa credit card also is a must have as
you earn points that can be equated to dollars off your vacation. Vacations recharge our batteries, so to speak, and provide us with a lifetime of memories that will live on for years to come. Travel is truly good for the soul.
To book your next vacation with Angela, call 518-426-1000 ext. 2107 or email amargiotta@aaahv.com.
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