7 REASONS WHY PEOPLE STILL USE TRAVEL AGENTS

Over 50% of the world still prefer to use a travel agent for their travel needs. What exactly is the role of a travel advisor? While it is assumed that they plan, book, or manage travel arrangements like accommodations as simple as hotel, flight, or car rental only bookings, to more complex with a few travel components, or to really complex bookings with multiple destinations or group bookings, there are more to it than that. Here are 7 reasons why people still use travel agents. Lets break this down because travel advisors are more than just an online site. They go above and beyond without you doing all the work.

1. UNDERSTAND YOUR NEEDS: Based on your budget and desired experiences, they will ask the necessary questions in order to get to know YOU and what your group is looking for. This way they will be able to design the ideal trip by taking the stress out of an overload of information with online research. They cut out the noise and simplify the planning process for you. Once they book several times for you, they will come up with even more ideas and promotions for you by being aware of your travel needs. They will find what they believe will give you the best value with what you're paying.

   
   

2. DESTINATION ADVICE: You may want to do a honeymoon in the Caribbean but don't know which one is best or you're thinking of Thailand but don't know where to start. An expert has all the knowledge, experience, and insider travel resources at their fingertips. Rather than just relying on online research, you will get destination advice, ideas, and recommendations from someone that is going to give you quality information.

3. CUSTOMIZATION OF TRAVEL: If you have a more complex booking, a travel agent can deliver customization specific only to you. Whether it's the first time you're hopping on a cruise or flying to another country, they will be able to design an itinerary just for you! This will save you so much time, especially, if it's within their niche, they would be able to find the right suppliers to align with your needs. An online site has no way of reading your mind and planning a trip on your behalf. Imagine you having to make all the decisions, but you don't have any experience. It can be a daunting and stressful task. Your agent will eliminate all of that.

4. MANAGE EXPECTATIONS: A client may request a super low budget for round-trip flights plus all-inclusive booking, but a travel agent, may have to break the news that it's an impossibility. Travel agents who book often, know the average costs of flights, hotels, etc. based on the time of year and where you're going. They will find cost effective options or find luxury experiences for those looking for off the beaten path experiences with higher quality service. You get what you pay for when it comes to travel.

5 . SUPPORT BEFORE, DURING, AND POST TRAVEL: Travel agents are readily available to handle during travel emergencies and provide you with the correct resources to help ease travel mishaps. They can handle changes or cancellations before you travel. They can provide you with everything you need so that you can travel with ease. Having a direct point of contact is one of the most valuable aspects of the role of a travel agent. Instead of a 1-800 number and long wait times, your agent can help minimize travel stresses that may occur.

6. UPDATED ON TRENDS: Because travel is their career, whether part-time or full-time, they are constantly learning and training on supplier products and new trends. Their job is to know of current events and upcoming travel trends. They will be the first to know!

7. LEVERAGE TECHNOLOGY: Booking travel isn't just about going online and picking a site, you have to pick the right supplier that offer the best products with the best booking experience. Travel agents have access to all major suppliers worldwide who constantly evolve to better and more efficient booking systems. Staying up to date with technology is necessary for agents to provide clients with the most seamless experience. Avoid being scammed online or booking trips that may be cancelled before you arrive by working with a trusted travel advisor.

   
   

   Travel is not just about creating memories with family and friends, it is about business, import and export, medical, graduation, and so much more. When you work with the right travel advisor for what you're looking for, you're going to get the most out of this equation because most agents don't charge a service fee as commissions are already built into your bookings. However, if there is a charge, it is most often a minimal fee for utilizing their expertise. Travel is ever evolving, therefore, you need someone that is always evolving with it.

   
   

   In other words, find a good local travel agent and use them. You won't regret it.!