When to Use a Travel Agent

Travel agents have discovered that there are still plenty of reasons why many travellers prefer a real, live person to the electronic variety. Here are a few of them:

If you're going on a cruise

Although many cruise lines are trying to use booking engines, most cruises are still booked by travel agents because having a knowledgeable agent can be a godsend. A good agent will not only get you a decent price but also make sure you get the right state room on the right boat.

If you're in search of comprehensive service

Online travel booking engines can turn up discounts on air tickets but many booking engines don't search prices on budget airlines or small foreign carriers. A good travel agent will go the extra mile to find a discount. Additionally, many travel agents have deals with consolidators (companies that offer reduced fares, but not to the public), and the savings can more than make up for agent surcharges.

If you're looking for air passes and around-the-world fares

Most airlines sell air passes (such as Cathay Pacific and Malaysia Airlines) only through travel agents. The agents will charge you a fee for what they know, but they can also help you work out complex itineraries. Agents who specialise in around-the-world fares can usually get you a better deal, or at least help you pick the right routes to maximize your travel value.

If you are a specific-needs traveller

Many store-front travel agents specialise in types of travellers---baby boomers, senior citizens, gays and lesbians, naturists, or people with mobility issues. A resourceful travel agent can easily hook you up with like-minded individuals. Travel agents also have areas of expertise---cruises, luxury travel, safaris, etc., and their insights can be invaluable.

If you're planning a long, complex, multi-country trip

A trip of three weeks or longer to several countries requires all sorts of airline, hotel and car reservations. Many travellers find it easier to leave these details to an expert who can advise you on the nuances of making reservations in your destinations. You could make these arrangements yourself online, it's true, but will the search engine be able to answer that pressing question about the distance between the train station and your hotel?

If you have complicated requests

Many travellers use travel agents to avoid the possibility of aggravation. If you need a specific room at the Omni Royal in New Orleans---and that room only---a travel agent will have more success getting it for you than you would. Why? Because hotel proprietors know that travel agents are in the position to recommend or not recommend a particular hotel to travellers, and that makes them a powerful ally.

If you are travelling to a "difficult" country

It's best to use a travel agent if you're planning a trip to India, Egypt, China, or any place that might be considered challenging? A well-connected travel agent can help you make reservations and set up a single payment for your trip instead of having to make arrangements with individual hotels and airlines (some of which are not set up to allow direct bookings or international payment by credit card). For travel to countries where obtaining a visa can be a trying experience (especially Russia), a knowledgeable travel agent can save you lots of headaches.

If you're going to a country not popular with tourists

Believe it or not there are places on earth that have yet to be discovered by the majority of tourists. Like the Canary Islands or Portugal's Algarve or Ibiza. Travelling to such places will require a travel agent because chances are you won't be able to reach your desired destination directly. There are also many packages to out of the way places, and they're often cheaper than the cheapest budget flight booked on your own because they include hotels and airport transfers.

If you need a miracle

What do you do when your flight has been cancelled, leaving you stranded? Don't bother calling the airline. Your agent can have you rebooked and on the next available flight, sometimes within the hour. Many travel agents will go above and beyond the call of duty for you.

If you're uncomfortable using the Internet

Many people don't have the computer skills to research fares and make reservations online. If you don't feel you have the technical dexterity to do it all yourself, turn to a travel agent. There's nothing wrong with asking a professional for help and advice.

Paying off your holiday

When you book on the internet you have to pay for your whole trip at the time of booking. If you book through a travel agent you can book a year in advance of when you wish to travel, pay a deposit and then can pay your trip off over the next 11 months. After paying that initial deposit you can then pay whatever amount you like, whenever you like up to the final due date.

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