7 Reasons Why You SHOULD use a Travel Specialist
(or you’re on your own)
They go by many names; Travel or Cruise Agents, Planners, Specialists, Counselors, they are professionals in their field. There are many misconceptions about using a Travel Agent (TA) such as; “they cost money”, “I won’t get a good a deal”, “I lose my control”, “the internet is better”, and so on. This article will dispel those myths. As in any business, you need to check out who you are doing business with and “referrals” are a good way to start. Travel Agents have a highly stressful job as they have no control over the outcomes they are responsible for. However, a travel professional does control the personal service that they give to you – the client. They many times will take responsibility and make “it right” for problems beyond their control. You spend hard-earned dollars to take a dream vacation and a good travel professional will help you create those lifetime memories and get you the best value for your dollar.
Saves You Money Get over the idea that you pay more if you use a TA. For most suppliers, the price is the same whether the internet, direct, or with professional. TAs however, may have some rates not available to the public or not allowed to advertise, such as group rates for cruises. Travel agencies are paid by the supplier, so do not charge extra fees. The exception to this may be a fee for issuing air tickets or for extensive hours of research. Most cruise lines and some suppliers have a “no discount” policy, so what you find on the internet or direct will be the same price. Internet sites/call centers tend to not disclose all fees until the actual deposit process and usually charge a “booking fee”. They may also want total payment upfront and charge extra for questions. TAs can choose to waive or change a fee, if necessary. And yes there may be some lower fares on the internet; however these sites have to make up the difference somewhere, which could have negative effects later. Others are interested in just selling the product and collecting their fee – the end. No follow up. If a rate drops lower, the “computer” will not be calling you with this great news! Some TAs have a price guarantee or a supplier will match a competitor’s rate. It’s best to give your loyalty to an agent you trust and if you happen to find a lower price, ask them FIRST if they can meet that price.
Saves You Time Saving you time also saves you money! Many people do use the internet to initial research, but still prefer to deal with a TA when it comes decision time comes. The TA should ask questions about your likes and dislikes, what activities you enjoy, what type of vacation, what are your hobbies, etc. From your discussions, the TA can narrow down the selection process based on their experience and knowledge, make invaluable recommendations, and handle all the aspects of your travel.
Service With a good agent, you can have price AND service. By choosing a travel or cruise professional, rather than the internet, you get value added service. You also have contact with a real person, personal service, unbiased recommendations, and product knowledge. Some big internet players outsource their customer service out of the country. You will most likely find a home-based agent to be more convenient and flexible. Ask the agent:
- What are the office hours?
- Who is available in an emergency or if office is closed?
- Can we meet at another location?
- How do I get my tickets?
- Examples of how they’ve gone “above & beyond” for a client?
Knowledge With the price issue out of the way, that brings us down to agent/agency selection and product knowledge. Qualified travel professionals may work in an office setting or be home-based. Many agencies also have a web-site and may offer booking options via the internet. Do not confuse call centers, reservationists, or internet sites as having “qualified” agents. Also don’t confuse some of the emerging multi-level marketing schemes passing themselves off as travel professionals. Some agencies may specialize in certain types of travel, such as cruises or niche markets. If you are interested in taking a cruise, you could ask the TA:
- What certifications held or working on?
- Are they a Destination or Supplier Specialist?
- If they are a member of a professional association, such as CLIA, NACTA, ASTA, etc?
- Ask about their community involvement?
- How long have they been selling cruises?
- How long has the agency or host agency been in business?
- How many cruises have they been on?
- Which ships? Which Itineraries? Which Ships Inspected?
- Have they handled groups? Is there a group leader agreement?
- Who do they go to with questions?
- What other things they do for their clients?
Resource The TA should provide answers to your all questions and vital travel information. Travel Agencies receive countless calls from those that booked on the internet. For some reason, the internet computer failed to tell them important information and now their trip (and money spent) may be in jeopardy. Or clients of other agents call because the office is closed. The agent should be able to give advice on cruise shore excursions or optional tour packages. TAs will advise clients on the importance of purchasing travel protection insurance.
Assistance The best-laid plans can sometimes go awry, such as, a missing reservation or a medical or family emergency, the TA should be available to assist you.
Insured Ask the TA if they have:
- Errors & Omissions insurance?
- Liability insurance?
- License or Seller of Travel permit (if required)?
When you find an agent, make a commitment to do business with them, use their services, ask for prices, and have brochures mailed to you. But don’t use them, their resources and time if you have no intention of doing business with them. Be honest and avoid deceptions. You should get excellent service in return.
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