By Chrissy Cole, owner of Escape Reality Travel, CLIA Certified Cruise Counselor and Verified Travel Advisor. Last updated November 7, 2026.
Quick answer: A travel advisor saves you time, matches you with the right trip, handles the booking details, and supports you if plans change. You get expert guidance and a real person to call before, during, and after your trip. At Escape Reality Travel, we offer a free, no obligation consultation to get started.
What does a travel advisor do?
A travel advisor plans and books your trip so you do not have to piece it together yourself. That includes researching options, comparing prices and offers, booking cruises, resorts, flights, and tours, and staying available if questions or changes come up.
At Escape Reality Travel, the process is simple:
Book a complimentary consultation. We talk through your vision, your budget, and your travel style, with no pressure and no obligation.
We do the research. We curate options tailored to you, so you are not comparing resorts and reviews on twenty open tabs.
You show up and enjoy. We handle the details from booking to departure, and we are still here if anything comes up while you are away.
Why work with a travel advisor instead of booking online?
Time saved. We do the research and the comparing for you.
Better fit. We ask questions first, so your trip matches your life, your budget, and your people.
Expert knowledge. We know the ships, resorts, and destinations, and we have often seen them firsthand.
Help when things change. If plans shift or a problem arises, you have someone to call.
Access to current offers. We watch for promotions from cruise lines and resorts so you can take advantage of them.
What experience and credentials does Escape Reality Travel have?
I have spent more than 30 years in the travel industry, and I have led Escape Reality Travel, a boutique agency in the Pittsburgh area, since 2011. My credentials include:
CLIA Certified Cruise Counselor, granted by the Cruise Lines International Association
Verified Travel Advisor, certified through the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA)
Croatia Specialist
My specialty is cruising, both ocean and river. I also plan guided land tours with trusted tour companies, all inclusive getaways to Mexico and the Caribbean, and vacations to Alaska and Hawaii, where I am a destination expert.
Who is on the Escape Reality Travel team?
We are a small, dedicated team of travel advisors, each with our own specialties:
Janis Champion, All Inclusive Specialist. Plans all inclusive resort vacations throughout Mexico and the Caribbean and has been with the team since 2020.
Lori Thomas, Cruise Specialist. Handles ocean and river cruising and has reached Diamond status with Royal Caribbean. She has been with the team since 2021.
Shernett Gardener, All Inclusive Travel Advisor. Specializes in all inclusive travel to Mexico and the Caribbean, with a special love for Jamaica.
You can meet everyone on our About page.
What kinds of trips can a travel advisor plan?
We plan family vacations, group and celebration travel such as birthdays, reunions, and girls' trips, honeymoons and all inclusive getaways, and ocean, river, and small ship cruises. We also arrange guided land tours.
What do clients say?
One client shared that we "made the whole process feel so personal, like we were her only clients." You can read more reviews on our Google reviews page.
Frequently asked questions
Is it worth working with a travel advisor?
For most travelers, yes. An advisor saves time, helps you avoid costly mistakes, and gives you someone to rely on if plans change.
What is the difference between a travel advisor and a travel agent?
The terms are often used interchangeably. Many professionals now prefer travel advisor because the role goes beyond booking to include planning, guidance, and ongoing support.
When should I contact a travel advisor?
The earlier the better, especially for cruises, group trips, and holiday travel. Early planning gives you more choice of dates, cabins, and offers.
Ready to talk about your next trip?
Whether you have a destination in mind or just a feeling that you are ready for something special, we would love to hear from you. Email hello@escaperealitytravel.net or call 412-663-0079. You can also schedule a free consultation. We are based in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area and plan trips for travelers everywhere.