By Karen Quinn-Panzer
Travel Matters
Karen Quinn-Panzer
In this world of instant information on the internet, many people have asked me why bother to use a travel agent? In fact, there are some people who say “Are there still travel agents? I had no idea!”
One of the reasons to use a travel agent or specialist is because there is such an overwhelming amount of information online. A good travel agent can save you several hours of planning – and help you make better choices – based on their insight and experience with the type of trip you are looking for.
For example, if that deal on Groupon sounds too good to be true, it probably is. Trip pricing is based on the quality of experience, exclusivity, inventory availability and the timing of when you travel. With many trips, the further out you plan, the more you can save. This holds true for many river cruises and escorted tours, for instance, because availability is so limited. An average river cruise holds from 130-190 guests. Many small group tours are capped at 16 or 18 individuals.
Peace of mind. This is a huge benefit for anyone using a professional. How do you know that great-looking resort in Jamaica is the best all-inclusive for you and your family? Aside from reviews on Trip Advisor, the travel agent may have actually been there, done a site inspection or have valuable feedback from fellow agents and clients. This provides far more peace of mind than reading random reviews from people you don’t even know. Agents can provide comparison shopping with other all-inclusive resorts, expanding your possibilities and maximizing your budget. We know where the deals are available.
Customer service and consumer advocate. What if your flight gets cancelled due to mechanical reasons, with thousands of people trying to get to the same destination in Italy during the high summer season? If you have a travel agent, they can make sure your plans are adapted to allow for a 24-hour delay. They can also advise you on how to advocate for yourself with the airline. And if you have travel protection insurance, they can make sure you are reimbursed for changes in your itinerary.
Convenient one-stop shopping. Travel agents can help you expand your possibilities in travel. For example, you may start out wanting a cruise, but find that independent travel with skip-the-line tours, and local host assistance with train travel works out far better for you and your family. Or maybe you want to cover multiple stops in Europe and a river cruise provides a relaxed option to unpack only once on a floating boutique hotel on the river. An experienced travel agent can help you navigate through the many suppliers to find what fits your particular travel style.
Think of us as you would any other professional who you seek for advice. Most of us get paid by the supplier, not by the consumer. It’s a win/win for everyone.
Karen Quinn-Panzer is the owner and vacation specialist at Dream Vacations Quinn Panzer Travel.