FAQ's
Frequently Asked Questions for Dealing with Travel Agents
Why use a travel agent?
When I meet new people and tell them I work as a travel professional, they usually ask a lot of questions. From wondering “Do travel agents still exist?” to hearing stories about trip mishaps that could have been avoided, to people who are unsure why using a travel agency is advantageous. I have heard it everything.
What I’ve discovered is that there are many misconceptions regarding working with a travel expert, and I’d like to correct the record! Here are some often asked questions and misconceptions.
Why employ a travel agent?
Do travel agencies still exist? Can't I do everything myself online?
While the internet provides valuable information, it is not always sufficient. Professional assistance is still necessary.
It may sound weird to say, but I believe that the internet is one of the reasons why travel professionals are not only still important, but may mean the difference between a mundane holiday and a swoon-worthy dream vacation.
It’s easy to become overwhelmed with information or to find too late that the information you used to plan your vacation is hopelessly out of date and just incorrect. Travel specialists know better!
Travel experts often state that travel agencies are responsible for bookings, while the internet is for searching.
Doing some online research is a good place to start, but working with a travel professional to arrange all of the specifics and book your vacation is the best of both worlds. It will save you hours upon hours of combing through information online and ensure that you are receiving the best value for your vacation spending.
It’s similar to the difference between using WebMD and going to the doctor. The material available online is an excellent place to start, but you will need to consult with a professional to receive the best guidance possible.
When does it make sense to hire a travel professional?
All excursions are not made equal, and there are occasions when it may be advantageous to do it yourself.
Are you going to your cousin’s wedding in Dallas and only need a hotel room near the ceremony and reception? That sounds like an ideal time to turn to the internet!
Are you planning a two-week tour to London and Paris this summer and have never been there before? That requires the expertise of a specialist! Someone who can direct you to the greatest places to stay, the “can’t miss” dining spots that locals adore, arrange private excursions that avoid the lengthy lines and crowds at the must-see sights, and ensure that your time (and money!) are spent experiencing the “best of the best” while you are there.
Consider doing your own hair and makeup on a Saturday spent doing errands or watching a movie at the local cinema. However, if you are invited to a black-tie event or a special occasion, you will have your hairdresser do something special for you and may even schedule an appointment with a makeup artist to ensure you look your best, right?
It’s the same with travel arrangements. When all you need is the fundamentals, choosing the do-it-yourself approach is great. However, for something exceptional, it’s best to work with a professional!
You may even discover that you value the extra attention to detail and service provided by a trustworthy travel professional so much that you let him or her handle all of your travel planning, no matter how straightforward it appears!
Do travel agencies have access to information that I don't? Sold-out events provide better rates at gorgeous hotels. Airline tickets I can't find it online.
This question has two answers: yes and no.
Travel professionals form ties inside the industry, which can often unlock doors that appear to be closed. While they may be able to acquire tickets to a sold-out event, it’s important to avoid waiting until the last minute and expecting rock-bottom costs.
Through our collaborations, we frequently have “buying power” that an individual consumer cannot match. occasionally it means better rates at the resort you’re interested in; occasionally the price is the same, but we have access to enhancements or included amenities that the general public does not!
Quite often, we are able to provide our clients with options such as hotel upgrades, complimentary breakfast, room credits, free transportation, or other “extras” for the same price as if they had booked themselves.
It’s important to note that travel brokers do not own resorts, entertainment venues, cruise ships, or aeroplanes. They sell available inventory (rooms, tickets, excursion spots, and so on), but they cannot produce new inventory if it does not already exist. If you have your heart set on an overwater house at a resort with only 20 available, or orchestra seats to see Hamilton on your anniversary, it’s always best to plan ahead of time and allow your travel professional enough time to pull all the strings in your favour!
What happens when things goes wrong? Does hiring a travel agent imply that I can't have problems fixed immediately away?
Quite the contrary! When things go wrong, having a travel specialist on your side means having an advocate who will assist you get things back on track as soon as possible.
We often know about potential “hiccups” in a trip plan before you do. It is not uncommon for a travel specialist to have devised a solution before you become aware of the problem.
When flights are delayed or cancelled, most travellers will stand in line, annoyed and worried, waiting to be rebooked. Savvy travellers who booked with a travel professional will be able to relax over dinner while their agent works behind the scenes to rebook their flights and rearrange all of their scheduled activities to fit the timetable adjustment. Which one sounds more enjoyable?
Because we operate with a big number of travellers, our travel partners frequently provide us with priority treatment and ensure that our clients receive prompt attention.
Is it more expensive to book my holiday with a travel professional?
The short answer to this question is: no. While travel professionals receive a commission from the suppliers we use to book your holiday, this commission is based on advertised prices and airfare. In layman’s terms, this means that whether you book your holiday yourself or through a travel agent, the pricing remains the same.
As with any skilled service, your travel professional may charge a small professional fee. When you consider the time you will save on preparing, the additional level of service, and the confidence of knowing you have someone on your side if the unexpected happens, wise vacationers believe this is money well spent.
In fact, because of our connections and contacts, travel agents are frequently able to locate a greater value for your holiday expenditures than you can on your own. Whether it’s a more gorgeous resort for the same price or free upgrades, engaging with a travel professional may help you stretch your budget!
What is the best time to contact a travel professional?
As soon as you commit to organizing your trip. The sooner the better. Whether it is last-minute or planned 18 months in advance, the more time you can give us, the better!
You’ll need to know a few things, such as the days (or date range) you want to travel, the number of people in your travel party, including the ages of any children travelling with you, your expected budget, and an idea of what you want to do. Your travel consultant will gladly recommend specifics based on the information you supply.
Every travel specialist will ask that you are serious about the vacation you want us to design. Everyone enjoys daydreaming about exotic and opulent travel, but we devote significant attention to each plan. No matter how far out the travel dates are, we politely request that you only ask us to start preparing for trips you intend to book shortly.
