Wait... do travel agents still exist?! Yes, and they are probably needed more now than ever.
Travel agents in the past were more like booking agents. Travel agents are now called travel advisors because a travel advisor does so much more than just book your tickets. The reality is that while it was widely predicted that the Internet was going to kill off travel agents when digital tools were placed at every traveler's disposal, that just hasn't happened.
Online travel websites may seem like an easy option for booking travel. Still, people who book trips online end up frustrated, confused, and dissatisfied without personal customer service. It should be easier with so much information available. Instead, too much information can delay and frustrate the research and planning process to get a fabulous vacation. This is where a travel advisor can step in to help.
Many people realized the actual value of a travel advisor through the last few years of the COVID-19 pandemic. Travel advisors spent multiple hours on the phone rebooking travel, communicating ever-changing entry requirements, and tracking down refunds. This helped reduce lost time and frustration for their clients.
So why choose a travel advisor for your vacation? Keep reading for a few reasons!
Save Money And Add Value
A travel advisor can often save their clients money—even if they charge a fee for their time. Through exclusive relationships and in-depth knowledge of suppliers, advisors can provide the most bang for their clients' bucks while also providing a lot of value-adds that most consumers don't even know about. Travel advisors understand that people may feel limited by their vacation budget. They're dedicated to helping people receive the best possible value. Best of all, travel agents will share all of their professional guidance at no extra cost!
Personalized Service
Travel agents devote time and effort to making sure people are happy and satisfied with their travel options. If clients need any assistance, agents are just a phone call or email away, so the travelers will receive immediate attention when they need it. This is especially beneficial in contrast with large companies' poor state of customer service. Travel advisors have a relationship with their clients, so they are invested in their vacation satisfaction, unlike a customer service rep at an online travel agency.
Customer Advocate
In the rare case that something on a trip doesn't go as planned, travel agents are there to resolve the problem, so the client can relax and enjoy. Travel agents work for the client – not the travel supplier, so their main concern is always the traveler's unique needs. If something goes wrong before or during your trip, a certified travel advisor will work hard to get the vacation back on track. Advisors are there to help with flight cancellations, problems with hotel bookings, and any other issues that may arise.
Unbiased Information
Travelers can be assured that travel agents will do their best to make a vacation experience as wonderful as possible. When you book travel through an agent, they work for the client – not the travel supplier, so their main concern is always the traveler's unique needs.
Resources and Relationships
Travel advisors have various tools and contacts that consumers can't access or don't know about. Advisors can often get travelers better airplane seats, unique amenities at hotels, room upgrades, and more. A certified travel advisor can open doors unavailable to consumers. They will also know if you need COVID tests, vaccines, or visas.
Convenience
Travel advisors save consumers valuable time and energy. Travel advisors can help clients define what they want to get out of their travels and present options that fulfill or exceed their desires. They can book everything, from hotel and air to spa appointments and dining. And they can keep expectations realistic for the client's budget.
Expert Guidance
With industry experience, travel agents have the knowledge and firsthand experience to help clients decide which destination or resort is best for them. Travel agents have the most current information – from the best attractions to see, the most exciting activities to do, and the most affordable way to get there… they've got it covered! Travel advisors know the market and can match travelers with a better product than they can find on the Internet. An advisor can guide clients through multiple options, handle the complex reservation process and free them to focus on the fun.
Better Destinations
Travel advisors have information on the best times to visit different locations depending on the season, special events, or weather. They stay current on the latest popular destinations before they become overcrowded.
Set Client Expectations
A travel advisor will have knowledge of the weather, safety issues, cultural norms, and other information you will need to have a successful trip. In addition, the travel advisor will give packing advice and make sure the client has everything they need to travel to the destination.
Maximize time in a destination
A travel advisor will be aware of distances between cities, how long it takes to visit sites at a particular destination, and how to maximize your time to see and enjoy everything. A travel advisor can also consider the pace you would like to have on your trip or advise if you risk being too ambitious.