A perfect itinerary can still fall apart the moment real life shows up and that’s where a travel advisor earns their keep. We’re joined by Vicki Lewis, owner of Coast to Coast Travel in the south Indianapolis and Morgan County area, to break down what it’s actually like to plan trips in 2026: cruises, European vacations, all-inclusive resorts, family travel, and even group trips like Iceland. We talk about why plenty of people still choose a travel agent even when every deal looks “one click away,” and how keeping a real person in your corner changes the whole experience.

We get practical about the parts of travel planning most people underestimate: how deposits and payment schedules work, what resorts really mean when they say a room request is “not guaranteed,” and why seat selection on flights often costs extra. Vicki also explains why she strongly recommends travel insurance, what it can cover when dates change or illness hits, and why the worst time to learn you need help is when you’re already stuck on hold.

You’ll also hear what makes destinations like Ireland and Scotland stand out, how travel advisories factor into responsible planning, and why working with an independent travel advisor often costs no more than booking through a big travel website because commissions are already built into many rates. If you want more control with less stress, this conversation lays out a clear path.

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