In the fast-moving complicated world of travel, there at least 5 reasons why you need a travel agent. A good agent is vital for the expertise that they bring to help travellers of all budgets. Tech-savvy travellers appreciate the support and service of travel agents, and so does every major corporation. It just makes sense. Here’s 5 reasons why you need a travel agent:
Emergencies: Travel emergencies and related events happen all the time. Big weather events happen with regularity and are unpredictable and often far-reaching. There are also plenty of non-weather events disrupting flights, cruises, trains and destinations, including volcano eruptions, disease outbreaks, strikes and more.
Anything that causes cancelled or delayed flights means hassle. The travellers who get through this process easily are the ones who used a travel agent. You have someone to call with direct access to airline GDS (reservation system) and don’t have to wait in a long line at the airport (or be on hold for hours with the airline). They are the ones who get rebooked first and get the last available seats. When you have a Travel Agent, you’ve got support on your side.
Expertise: No one knows everything about travel, but a travel agent’s knowledge can’t be beat. And while even the best travel agent can’t know everything, a travel specialist is invaluable. You may want to experience an adventure, like biking through Indonesia, relax on a river cruise through western Europe, or plan a destination wedding and honeymoon in the Caribbean. A good corporate travel agent knows the best hotels in the city but more importantly, they know the best hotel for you based on your likes and budget. An experienced travel agent will make your important trip a reality. They tailor unique experiences for you.
VIP Connections: Whether you are trying to book space at a coveted 5-star London hotel or at a small safari lodge in Africa, you need pull. Travel agents have access to more travel experiences, promotions, and suppliers than anything on the Internet. Relationships with preferred travel suppliers have been built over the years and decades. Anytime there is a scarcity or a supplier issue, there is no substitute for preferred suppliers and personal connections.
Extras: When you get more than you expected for the same price, that’s a great deal. Top agents have cruise programs with special savings and extra inclusions with many of the world’s best cruise lines. Top agents also feature value-added hotel programs with four-and-five-star properties in resort and city destinations around the world. The extras often include exclusive complimentary perks and services including customized encounters, resort credits, and dining discounts.
Airfares: There are major travel sites that leave out flights and even airlines. In many cases, they show the flights you don’t want, starting with “basic economy” fares (with high restrictions and extra fees). These are the airline tickets that no responsible travel agent would let you book. And you still must deal with all the pitfalls of the online travel sites, like customer service. An experienced agent will provide the lowest applicable airfare, saving you time and money.
The bottom line is you’ll travel better with a travel agent! They know more than you do, they are better connected, they have access to extra benefits, and they find the best prices. They plan a better trip; they provide peace of mind and make you a VIP! What everyone needs these days is more time and less stress, and that’s what we’re here for. Plus Travel Group is here to make your dream trip a reality! We deliver on all the above. How can we help you?
Written by: Mark Crone