Agent Spotlight: Shelly Bishop

When it's time to book your dream vacation, you need a Modern Travel Professional! Finding your perfect travel planning partner is the best way to make that vacation dream a reality. In the Agent Spotlight series, we'll be highlighting our amazing Travel Pros so you can get to know our incredible team and find the Travel Pros who's right for you!

Today's Spotlight: Shelly Bishop

Let's get to know Shelly!

• Travel Specialty: Ocean and River Cruises

• Based In: Florida

What made you fall in love with travel?

Oh gosh! I have had the travel bug for a long time. When I was in my 20s, I wanted to travel, and I didn't have any friends who could or would travel with me. That's when I learned about cruising. Cruises were an easy and safe way to go solo, meet other people, and see the world. Back then, the cruise line would pair you up with another traveler, and we would share a cabin. That would never happen today. During these cruises, I fell in love with being at sea, watching the wake of the ship, and seeing all the islands.

What's the biggest mistake you see travelers make?

One of the biggest mistakes I see travelers make is not understanding the value of a travel advisor. Agents with Modern Travel Professionals have access to exclusive pricing, extra perks and tons of knowledge about the vacation you are dreaming of. Beyond that, we are your advocate. If you have an issue while on a trip, you can reach out to me, and we've already established a relationship. Curious about what the best travel insurance is? I got you. Need to change something last minute? Let's talk about it! Why would you want to call a faceless person on an 800 number that has no relationship with you, and generally lacks the expertise and knowledge that I have? (Have they done hours of training? Personally sailed the itinerary?)

What is one destination you think everyone should see in their life?

I have so many, so I'm going to share my most recent. I just came back from an AmaWaterways river cruise down the Danube River (on the beautiful AmaMagna). I did a pre-cruise 3-night stay in Prague and fell in love with the city. It was the perfect mix of history and progressive attitudes. Everyone seemed so happy. We had the best hotel in the best location, and everything was taken care of. I loved it.

What's one item you can't imagine traveling without?

My iPhone - it's my lifeline! Taking pictures, staying in touch with family, and posting to social media. Who knew years ago that we'd have one tiny device that replaced so many things we used to have to travel with.

What's your idea of the perfect vacation?

Being on the water - it can be a gorgeous river or ocean with my family or friends (or solo!) I am currently dreaming of a river cruise to see France, hello Paris!

What's the #1 thing you wish more people knew about planning a trip? 

Create a relationship with a trusted advisor, and share openly what your perfect trip looks like. Be honest with your budget and what you envision for your trip. I can take it from there and share realistic options and things you might not think about.

Once traveling, know that something can and will go wrong despite careful planning. Maintaining a good attitude and working through the facts to course correct. And, have fun! You aren't working, and you are exploring new things.

Want to work with Shelly? Visit her page to fill out a quote request form, or contact her below!

sbishop@moderntravelpros.com

727-460-4365

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