The Expedia CruiseShipCenter at Hacienda is a one-stop shop for finding a cruise that fits you, your family, or your business needs, according to Franchise Owner Joe Lu.

"We help people create unforgettable memories with friends and family, one trip at a time," says Lu. "Our clients enjoy Expedia prices and incredible service. Our consultants are also passionate travelers who can share their experience to create the best vacation experience for our clients."

While traveling is a pleasure for Lu, it is also very much his business. By taking cruises twice a year, he stays on top of what different cruise lines can offer his clients. It also helps him and his travel consultants act as effective matchmakers between their clients and different cruise routes and on-board cruise activities.

According to Lu, new clients often come in to the Center and ask for the least-expensive cruise on a particular date. After a conversation, it often turns out that the client is actually looking for the best value cruise that meets the client's needs and personal preferences.

"If you just want the cheapest or the lowest price, you can just go online," says Lu. "That is no secret. We are going to ask you what you like. We try to find cruises that match a customer's interests or personal hobbies. Let's say you like wine. Perhaps you would enjoy going on a river cruise that stops at vineyards. If you have children or teenagers, we ask what they like. For families, the Royal Caribbean can be a good choice. It is huge and has lots of popular activities, like zip lines. And then we talk about the price."

Lu was an accountant for 15 years. After that, he flipped houses with his father. Even though flipping houses "was a lot of fun", eventually Lu was ready for a different business adventure. After much research, he chose to become a Franchise Partner with Expedia CruiseShipCenters because he loves to travel and enjoys helping clients find their dream cruise.

In January 2018, the company opened its office in Hacienda because Hacienda's central location allows it to serve the Tri-Valley community well. In addition to Lu, eight vacation consultants work with customers to choose the perfect vacation cruise.

"A lot of people think our service ends after they book a cruise with us and are surprised by the service we provide after the booking," says Lu. "We actually prepare all the required documents and send reminders to our clients to ensure they have a stress-free experience before, during, and after their vacation."

The Pleasanton Expedia CruiseShipCenter is sponsoring a presentation by Scenic River Cruise and a complimentary wine tasting at Total Wine & More in Pleasanton on October 10, 2018, from 6 pm to 7 pm.

For more information about Expedia CruiseShipCenters, please visit www.cruiseshipcenters.com/900207.