“As a University Band Director for almost 30 years, we don’t often do trips involving a tour company. Most college ensembles have the opportunity to travel a little more often than most public schools, and this is often financially covered by university entities. It is a luxury that I do not take for granted.

 

When we decided to book an optional trip that about 1/4 of our ensemble would cover their own financial obligations, our goal was for them to have a great experience not only on the trip, but in the months leading up to it while working with the touring partner we chose.

 

I have utilized a tour company probably 4 times over my time in higher education. I can say, without reservation, that Note-able Travel handled our trip professionally, expediently, and with GREAT adaptability on our recent trip to Orlando to perform in the Magic Kingdom.

 

Of special note, the level of availability and communications are straightforward and timely. The package pricing is very competitive and the level of service was highly personalized and assuring all the way through the process.

 

It should be said that during this time of Covid-19 and all of the economic upheaval, Note-able Travel shined particularly well for our group. As we arrived at the airport to depart, our flight was cancelled. Within 20 to 30 minutes, our entire party was booked on another airline, together on the same flight, and arrived later that same evening. During that time, the on-the-ground team was focused on our group’s experience and keeping us informed and up-to-date. It was most impressive. I have colleagues who have had similar challenges, only to have the tour company put their arms up and take them back home. Refunds are fine, but to have a company that understands not only the expectations but also how to seize the moment and turn an unfortunate circumstance into a “win” for your group is worth almost as much as the trip itself.

 

The trip was first-rate and memorable. The accommodations were outstanding and the experience our students had was, I’m quite sure, the highlight of their year. The meal-cards all worked (a big deal, it has not happened on other trips with other companies), and the transfers were all on time. This made for a very comfortable and worry free trip from the director’s position.

 

Little touches like the custom itineraries, the welcome signs in Orlando complete with water and snacks and the regular emails not only took the trip over the top, but showed the commitment that Note-Able has for their clients and the experience of the student travelers.

 

A Note-Able team member was with our group at every intersection. From loading at our school, the transfer to the airport, the Airport check-in, landing, the performance, the check-out, and the transfer and load to return home, we had a seasoned travel professional with us every step of the way. Any little issue was taken care of and outside of normal pacing of a large group, the entire trip was smooth and care-free.

 

I highly recommend Note-Able Travel Experiences for any sort of “template” trip or to even plan your own custom performance experience for your students. You will feel taken care of, and informed for the entire process.

 

We at the UTSA Spirit of San Antonio look forward to more experiences with the entire team at Note-Able and are already planning our next trip for 2024.”

 

Ron Ellis
Director of Bands/Associate Professor of Music
The University of Texas at San Antonio