Here are a few tips:
- Look for the right certification. If the agent is a member of the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) (www.asta.org), that's a promising sign. ...
- If at all possible, stay local. There's no substitute for the personal touch. ...
- Interview the agent. ...
- Find out how they react under pressure.
Here are a few tips:
- Look for the right certification. If the agent is a member of the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) (www.asta.org), that's a promising sign. ...
- If at all possible, stay local. There's no substitute for the personal touch. ...
- Interview the agent. ...
- Find out how they react under pressure.
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Travel agents save clients money, but the benefits of booking with a travel agent go way beyond. Travel agents also create high-value travel over OTAs because (the living, breathing, talented humans that they are) are able to advocate for clients when things go awry.
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The cost of using a travel agent is generally marginal, and often, they won't charge you at all. Much of their money comes from commissions the hotels and wholesalers pay them. Before you decide to book with a travel agent, inquire whether or not they charge fees.
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- You're Not The One Planning Your Travel. While not planning your travel is a pro to some, for other travelers, it's a major con. ...
- You Add Another Person To The Equation. ...
- You Actually Have To Find The Agent. ...
- They're Not Great For Spur-Of-The-Moment Changes.
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While you could spend hours scouring the internet, reading questionable reviews and looking for deals, a AAA Travel Agent's hard-won relationships could be benefitting you. Studies have shown working with a travel agent saves travelers over three hours of time spent planning per trip.
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It's a myth that working with a travel agent will automatically cost you more; most get paid via commissions from the hotel or outfitter. Sure, some travel agents do charge a fee for putting together an itinerary, but most will credit you that fee if you end up booking the trip through them.
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Whether you're booking a weekend getaway in a U.S. city or planning an around-the-world extravaganza that includes an African safari, Antarctica cruise and a stay in an igloo hotel, consider using a travel agent. An agent can help get you on the right trip, at the right time for the right price.
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Pros of hiring a travel agent Hassle-free booking: A travel agent books everything for you, so you don't have to worry about the details.
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A travel agent works with you to find and book the perfect trip. They help with planning trips and the best travel advisors provide you with insight and firsthand experience to book the perfect trip based on your personal style.
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Don't tip your travel agent. “An adviser's job is to create memorable trips for you and they get compensated for their service, so they don't expect more money on top of that,” she said.
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It is usually cheaper to book flights through travel agents rather than directly with the airlines when you are looking for a package deal. Travel agents often have access to discounts and special offers that may not be available if you book directly with the airline.
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The commission percentage agencies earn depends on numerous factors, the most important one being which private contracts you have access to. Here's a general rule of thumb on the airline ticket commission range you can expect as a travel advisor: Domestic: 0-5% International: 10-22%
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However, using a travel agent still has some unique benefits. Travel agents can find you exclusive fares, offer specialist expertise, and help you plan and coordinate your trip. Even today, many people seek them out for a more personalized travel experience.
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Why book travel through AAA? AAA members get exclusive access to a wealth of travel services, discounts, and amenities. With years of experience as a leading leisure travel agency, members can rely on AAA before, during, and after their trip.
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Travel Circumstances When You Cannot Use a Travel Agent You might have online bonuses or credits, like Expedia+ Rewards or Orbitz Orbucks. A hotel may offer extra loyalty points when you book directly through their website. It might be easier for you to arrange rentals cars from an independent agency.
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Does not follow up: A bad agent promises trip options and rates, but fails to deliver in a timely manner to the client, who then moves on to another agent. A bad agent also fails to follow up with the client after a trip that has been booked to see how it went.
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People still choose a travel agent to help them book their travel experience, whether it is for business or pleasure. A travel agent helps travelers navigate any issues that may arise. They can even help save travelers money because they know what kinds of discounts and packages are out there.
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