In an age where travel websites and apps seem to dictate everything there is about travel planning and booking, why would anyone bother to use – and even pay for –the services of a travel agent?
Good question. We have the answer. Because it makes perfect sense, and in many cases, using a professional travel planner can save money. It most definitely improves the travel experience overall.
For the luxury traveler, the role of the travel agent has become more, not less, essential to the travel process.
Luxury Travel PR firm Reports High Agent Sales for Luxury Properties
As a luxury travel PR firm, we work with several boutique hotel management clients who handle high-end properties around the globe for business and leisure travelers.
It may surprise you to discover that one of our clients just told us that a full 25% of their bookings come from travel agents.
When you think about it paying for the services of a travel professional who knows the ropes, has the contacts, and can offer sage advice makes the most sense.
This is particularly true when it comes to bookings in off-the-beaten-path locales or for large groups such as family reunions or affinity trips.
An article in the May 2015 issue of Conde Nast Traveler puts it succinctly: “Travel web sites that promise to narrow the world seem to do just the opposite. And although there’s an app for nearly everything, there are still some experiences only a human can make happen…[a travel specialist] will pull off the impossible, plan a better trip than you ever could, and spare you the logistics. Put simply, they’ll nail it and you’ll have a better vacation because of them.”
Figuring out the best hotels and restaurants can seem easy – if you are inclined to read through dozens of often conflicting amateur reviews from people you don’t know. And you are willing to wing it when trying to rent a vehicle in a far-off location or need VIP tickets to an event?
For business travelers, travel professionals are equally valuable. A busy executive has even less time to scroll through web pages. And while his or her company may handle hotel accommodations, what if he needs reservations in a top restaurant to entertain a client, tickets to a major sporting event, or a high-end rental vehicle to show clients around?
Tips from Peter
Peter Greenberg. renowned travel expert known as the Travel Detective, names just a few reasons agents still matter:
· For larger groups or complex itineraries, an agent will handle all the logistics;
· An good agent has relationships in place to make sure nothing goes wrong;
· Peter recommends that you vet an agent to make sure they have insurance, are licensed, and how long they’ve been in business. Also check to make sure they have experience in the type of travel you are seeking – some agents are cruise specialists, others focus on safaris.
· And one of our own reasons: They are your go-to person back home if you do have a problem
So next time you are planning a real vacation, one that will matter to you and your family for years to come, or doing any booking beyond a simple roundtrip flight, consider asking an expert. You will find it well worth it.