Why Not Just Use the Internet?

Planning a trip today can be confusing and time consuming. A travel agent not only arranges the various modes of transportation, but may also be able to save you money with early booking discounts, special fares, accommodation details and travel advisories.

Why use a travel agent and not the Internet?

I am a travel agent who runs her business from home. People often ask me how I get paid or why they should not just make their own reservations. The airlines, hotels, rental car companies, tour companies and cruise lines pay travel agents a commission on the sale. This is not an additional amount you have to pay. It is the same price as if you booked it with the company yourself, and you then have a free personal travel consultant. 

Some have decided to charge fees for their services in order to survive. Being a travel agent in today's world is very difficult. Many agencies will be closing due to commission cuts on the part of the airlines. A travel agent is dependent on customers using the agency for his or her travel arrangements. So why should you use a travel agent? Many times I can get things cheaper due to all the resources I have at my fingertips. There are some companies that only deal with travel agents so you would not be able to get their prices.

A travel agent is like any personal service that you use regularly like a hairdresser, doctor, lawyer, etc. Once you find one that provides you the service you want and need, it can be a lasting relationship.

But what about all the places on the Internet to buy your travel? It is a good idea to check to see if you are getting the deal that some may think they are. And if you can get a travel reservation for the same price on the internet as a travel agent can get you, please consider allowing an agent to handle your travel who can really use the commission instead of giving it to a large internet company.

I think that the Internet is a great resource but many think they will get a better deal than they would through a local travel agency. If this has been the case for you, you may want to look for a different travel agent instead of turning to using the Internet to make all your travel plans. Or it may be a one-time deal where you did save by using the Internet. The problem with the Internet travel agencies is that there isn't that personal touch a local agent could give you. If a problem arises, you can be in trouble.

There are also many fraudulent companies online. I have done some research on using the internet to book travel and I have found that there are many times where the internet shopper pays more than what I can find. Some rental car companies online charge more than what I can get my customers. Then some agencies get better rates through certain companies due to affiliations or sales offered only to travel agencies. Many airline websites will not check all options because they aren't affiliated with certain airlines.

There will always be the chance of getting a special on the Internet, I won't deny that. Some airlines are offering Internet fares only but if a travel agent can get you the same rate, why not give the commission to a local agent who desperately needs it. Think of it as helping someone out without it costing you anything. I know my family appreciates the commission I receive due to my great loyal customers. It means so much to me that they choose me to make their travel plans instead of using the Internet or doing it themselves the hard way.

There are many choices with new technology, but sending your business to a local business is the best choice you can make. Operating a business is challenging and it takes the help and kindness of people sending their business to you in order to make it. So please, the next time you need travel, call a travel agent. I know all travel agents out there would appreciate it.

At Destiny Travels our goal is not volume sales, but to provide personalized service, customizing your vacation just for YOU! We are not a call center, but will dedicate as much time as needed in helping each traveler on an individual basis.  You are important to us.

May all your journeys be happy!

Brenda Holt
Destiny Travels