Carol Mccarthy

When I was a youngster, I used to send for the travel brochures advertised in the New York Times. I read them all and kept them in a carton under my bed.  However, I didn’t think about being a travel agent until going back to work when my daughters were in school full time. At that point, I took a night course and got a job with a travel agency and I knew I’d found my calling.

I’ve voyaged throughout South Africa, South America, Europe and the Caribbean. The travel industry remains very exciting to me and it is wonderful to continue to learn about all the new hotels and destinations as they develop. One of the fastest growing types of travel in recent years has been river cruises. There are many new styles of river cruising that most travelers aren’t aware of. For example, many provide biking and hiking tours in each port. And the price range and level of luxury has widened considerably as well.

My services include leisure and corporate planning. Before coming to Protravel, I managed an American Express affiliated agency. When that closed, I looked for an agency that would give me a lot of clout to advocate for my clients. Protravel fit the bill. Hotels and Airlines respect Protravel and provide us with extra favors and waivers. 

My clients get VIP amenities and perks, and if I have a problem, I have access to someone who can help. That often makes me a hero to my clients. One of my corporate travelers told me: “One of the things I like best about you is that you can turn on a dime and when there are issues like weather or equipment problems that are beyond your control, you stay with me until they are resolved.” I’ve worked until midnight many a time, and my clients know that I am their advocate.

I have clients with ultra-luxury budgets and others with limited funds and they all get my best effort. That’s the way I am. I couldn’t have a client put their trust in me and not give my full attention to making them as happy as possible. Whether you are planning a big budget trip around the world or a short trip on a limited budget, I want to hear from you.