In today's world of quick access to information and services online, many travelers don't consider using a travel agent or consultant when planning a trip. Airplane tickets, hotels, rental cars, and even tickets to attractions can all be booked online, allowing consumers to make their own choices in the comfort of their homes. Sylwia Majtczak, a corporate travel consultant since 1997, knows that online deals aren't always the best option for travelers, though. Here are a couple reasons you might not want to book travel on your own:
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| Sylwia Majtczak |
- Travel agents often have access to reservations that are otherwise unavailable. Because they book hundreds to thousands of trips every year, travel agents and consultants have bargaining power individual consumers don't and can acquire hard to get rooms, dinner or entertainment reservations, and other perks for their clients.
- Travel agents offer security when something goes wrong. Everyone wants to believe their trip will be problem-free, but when you do have an issue it is reassuring to have someone you can call. Travel agents and consultants have connections with airlines and hotels that allow them to resolve issues more swiftly and often with a better result than the average consumer.
Although these are common reasons you may want to use a travel agent rather than booking on your own,
Sylwia Majtczak knows the best reason for using an agent or consultant is the personal attention you receive. A travel agent is likely the only person you'll speak to about your trip whose primary concern is to ensure you have the most successful travel experience possible.
