Sue and Bruce Mitchell
In the age of online booking sites, using a travel agent may feel like going the way of the dinosaur, but agents are more useful than simply selling trips to Disney World and cruises.
Many agents still provide services or have knowledge you can’t find online. In addition, sometimes, especially in times of crisis, working with a real live person is just plain superior.
Here are 10 reasons why they still are useful:
- They Are Educated And Have Personal Experience
Simply put, they know more than you. They can give you insider tips and advice, using their education and personal experience to guide your vacation decisions. They have access to personal feedback from hundreds of clients, and their own personal travel agent network. - They Have Clout
Many travel agents develop personal relationships with individuals at the companies they sell. They may leverage these relationships to get you things you can’t get on your own. - The Fixer
In addition to getting you more on any trip, they can step in and fix things when your trip goes awry. - Cost Savings
The best travel agents have access to benefits that can save you a lot of money and provide you with a better experience. - Time Savings
Instead of searching blindly on the Internet for hours, you can have an expert do the research for you, with your personal needs in mind. There usually is no additional cost to you. - Safety Net
If anything goes wrong on your trip, you can rely on them to assist you. They also will assist you in purchasing insurance to cover any unforeseen issues. - On the Cutting Edge
They are on the cutting edge of everything new. They subscribe to travel papers, which tell them what is new first. - You Pay the Same Anyway
Cruises and tours are parity priced. What this means is the cost is the same whether you use an agent or do it yourself. In fact, sometimes the price can be lower using an agent. There also may be added perks. - You Get Matched Right
If you call the cruise line direct, they will not match their product to your family. Travel agents are trained to ask the correct questions and pick the best choice for you. - An Ongoing Mutually Beneficial Relationship
A good agent is like a good mechanic. Once you find them, you will never want to give them up. You should be prepared to ask them questions about their ability just like you would when choosing a mechanic or a doctor.
Please contact Sue or Bruce Mitchell, your Cruise Planners travel specialists, if you have any questions about travel. Visit our website at redmountaintravel.com. You also may send an email to smitchell@cruiseplanners.com, or call (480) 396-8084.