Sandy - JWS TRAVEL - Red Deer, Alberta

Todd B.

I thought I would take time before leaving this feedback as I was deeply disappointed with our experience with Sandy’s travel agency so I took some time to reflect.

My wife and I looked at going to Europe in October 2023. We were booking 6 weeks early around Aug 15 and I was told $75 down and $200 when she books the flights which was fantastic. The reason I decided to use a travel agent is that I was worried about booking it myself as I’m 6’4” 300 pound man with a bad right knee that I wanted an aisle seat for which I explained to Sandy. We were also looking at going to Oktoberfest in Munich, Germany and I didn’t know how to book seats for the evenings inside the tents which I also explained to Sandy. She took this on and said it may take her a week to get the rough itinerary which was fine. A few days later I found she had someone else do up an itinerary that just said GOWAY UK & Europe. This wasn’t the level of personalization that I expected when she said she was going to do it. The price seemed extremely high as well at about $20,000. We asked for a breakdown so that we could cut some costs but we were told they couldn’t give us a breakdown as it was a package deal? As time was against us we ended up just paying for the trip. Then we find out that no tickets were booked for Oktoberfest because you “don’t need them” (not true for getting inside the tents in the evening) and flight seating wasn’t done. I was told how to go on and book seats myself. This was the main purpose of us using Sandy. As well my itinerary that was emailed to me after I paid did not have check marks beside everything being “confirmed”. I had sent all of the money but it still took weeks to confirm hotels, flights, etc and some needed to be changed because they were no longer available which seemed crazy as I had agreed on.a set itinerary with certain hotels at a very steep price and they wanted more because things needed to be changed because of availability. Once the money was received I am assuming GOWAY UK or Sandy weren’t doing anything to confirm things that I had paid for already. I ended up sending emails to get things moving with confirming flights , hotels, etc but it still took a few weeks.

Then when we got to Europe none of the excursions were catered to us. One of the trips ended up being a rigorous hiking trip not a “walk” that the excursion was listed as. When the man saw me with my knee brace he immediately said you are not going to be able to do this and we ended up not going. The tour guide offered a different trip in exchange but it didn’t interest us so whatever money we were charged by Sandy for that was lost.

Overall a very nice lady but I expected much more when I used a travel agent that they would personalize the trip more and that I could have a better idea of breakdown of costs so that maybe we stayed in one area less time if we knew the price was astronomical. It seems she immediately passed my file onto a large company that has cookie cutter excursions for everyone. This is something I thought I was avoiding upon my initial discussions with Sandy.

Randi M.

My husband and I have never been on a trip out of Canada together. I always put it off and got overwhelmed when looking at all the different places to go that would suit our needs. This year my husband was determined to go on a trip. So I wanted to find a travel agent that was local, not a large company. I found Sandy and I am glad we did. She researched Jamaica for us, found out what we wanted and didn't want and found us the perfect couples resort with no kids. She made the process so smooth, it took my anxiety of traveling completely away. Not only did she choose a perfect resort, she ensured I had all the proper paperwork, and a list of what to pack. She was supportive from start to finish. I would highly recommend getting Sandy as part of your trip planning process, she is well educated in travel, easy to talk to, and fun. We had a blast, thanks Sandy!!

NANCY P.

I was determined to go to the Bahamas for our honeymoon, but without Sandy’s help we would have ended up stuck in the hurricane in the Bahamas!!!! If you want a stress and worry free vacation, just talk to Sandy. We have booked a few vacations with her and couldn’t be happier with our memories and experiences. Sept 2019 Sandy helped us find our honeymoon destination!! It was not an easy process, and she gave 110% with so much patience and care! It was absolutely perfect with all the extra perks which were a complete surprise! Rose petals in our beautiful room and breakfast and mimosas in bed in beautiful Puerto Vallart Mexico! We give Sandy 5 stars but we would give 10 if it were an option!

Lou

Sandy is very dedicated to making all aspects of your travel experience run smoothly. We’ve used Sandy multiple times to book trips all over the world. Even when airlines had issues or delays she stayed on top of our trips the entire time we were away. If work arounds were needed due to weather she would look for alternatives. By picking Sandy the Travel Agent Next Door you will rest assured that she’s always got you covered.

Biana M.

Sandy is honestly the best travel agent I have ever dealt with. If you ever need help with anything she is right there to help. She got me through travelling for a family emergency to the US during Covid with 2 children and helped ease my anxiety. I have nothing but the best things to say about her. Thank you Sandy for everything. I will be back to you next time for sure!

Cheryl N.

Sandy is Brilliant and so very patient! My world is often chaotic and and my schedule isn’t the easiest to book around. She always manages to get me where I need to be and back again with ease! She researches and finds me exactly what I need and want!

Shelley C.

Excellent communication and looked after booking our trip stress free!! Will definitely use again!

Fiona H.

Sandy is great with all of the small details and arrangements for flights and hotels and the great excursions