So how do you find the right person or agency to plan your trip? Here are 10 questions to ask before booking:
Why should I use a travel agent instead of the Internet? Doing your own checks of websites for flights and hotels can be educational, but it's also time-consuming and can be risky business. You've worked hard to earn the money you'll spend on a vacation; you don't want to end up staying at a destination or hotel that doesn't match your vacation goals. A good agent will be able to tell you why you should turn your travel planning over to a professional.
What are your rates? Some agents charge service or planning fees for their work. You need to know up front about these fees and commissions: Have the agent spell it out for you.
What will I get for my money? Travel agents have access to the same deals you find on the Internet, but they often also know about cheap fares, hotel deals and other travel perks that average consumers cannot get on their own. They should also tell you they'll back you up if you have problems on the trip.
How long have you been a travel agent? Experience counts. An agent who knows how to work the system can score better deals for you and give you more relevant advice. They can save you time, prevent travel mistakes and help you get the most value for your money. And if you're planning a complex trip, they can be an indispensable resource.
"People are entrusting not only their time to us, but also lots of money," "They deserve to know something about us and how long we've been in business."
Do you have any specialties? Make sure your agent is a good match for you. If you find an agent who specializes in the type of trip, cruise or tour you want to take, he or she will help you have a better experience. "It's like finding the best doctor," They all have degrees and have graduated from great medical schools, but some are more skilled in certain areas," Those are the people you want to find."
Have you been there? "You don't want an agent who's just a salesman," she said. "You don't travel to a place just to see the inside of a hotel. You need to find someone who knows the hotels, the restaurants and the activities that are available. They can say to you, 'Drive here and you can have a great ice cream."
Do you have a special association with airlines or other travel providers? "Sometimes that means we can find lower fares for our clients," Other agencies may belong to associations or groups that make special perks available to them. They may be able to get you better seats, upgrades, express check-in or discounts on parking.
Are you registered to sell travel where required?Some states require all sellers of travel to register with the attorney general's office and to display the number on all advertising. Although not assuring that the company is reputable, a valid registration signals that the seller of travel has at least followed the law to be registered. Another good thing to find out: Does the agency belong to professional organizations, such as ASTA, or Virtuoso,which promote ethical business practices?
Can you give me specifics? Ask what services will be provided. If you're traveling domestically, you want your agent to find you the best connections and the best value; you may also want him to change or cancel a flight for you. If you're going abroad, you may need to know how to get a visa or where to change money. Ask about insurance. Ask the agent to give you specifics about how she can help with your trip.
What questions would you like to ask me? The agent should get to know your travel preferences. "Do you want a large-ship experience or do you like small ships? Are you watching your budget? Will there be children along?" Finding a good agent was like finding a good barber. "Once you've found one," he said, "you keep going back again and again. That's how I want clients to view us."
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