The reality is that every professional makes mistakes from time to time. Doctors make mistakes. Lawyers make mistakes. Teachers make mistakes. Travel advisors make mistakes.

The difference is that professionals develop systems, processes, and habits that help them avoid mistakes and catch them before they become bigger problems.

That's one reason we spend so much time on onboarding, training, supplier education, and professional development. It's also why we encourage advisors to ask questions, get a second opinion, and take advantage of the Team around them.

You don't have to be perfect, just professional. And that actually means knowing when to ask for help.

Sometimes you need somebody to check your math, a second set of eyes on an itinerary, or somebody who's already booked that ship, toured that resort, or visited that destination.

That's why you have Carol and me. That's why you have a Team. That's why you have access to more than 7,000 Expedia Cruises™ advisors and over 100 corporate support team members.

One of the promises our advisors make to their customers is that they'll always be there when they're needed. That same promise extends from the Corporate Team to us and from us to our advisors. When you need help, somebody is there.

And before Pam ever heads to the port, we're going to help you make sure that you are very sure that she is sure she knows where she's going, when she's leaving, what documents she needs, what transfers are included, and what to expect when she arrives.

That's what a professional advisor does. And yes, that's also one reason professional travel advisors carry Errors and Omissions insurance. Not because we expect mistakes, but because professionals prepare for things that might happen.

If you're worried about making a mistake, that's actually a good sign. The advisors who care enough to double-check, ask questions, and get a second opinion are usually the ones who avoid the biggest mistakes in the first place.

And if Pam somehow still ends up on the wrong ship, we'll help you fix it before she sees you in the cereal aisle at Walmart.