Consulting a travel agent can be a great way to plan a trip, especially if you’re looking for expert advice, special deals, or a personalized experience. Here are some steps to help you find and work with a travel agent effectively:
1. Determine Your Needs:
- Destination: Where do you want to go?
- Budget: How much are you willing to spend?
- Type of Travel: Adventure, relaxation, family-friendly, luxury, etc.
- Special Requests: Any specific accommodations or activities you want included.
2. Research Travel Agents:
- Specialties: Some agents specialize in certain destinations or types of travel (e.g., cruises, honeymoons, adventure travel).
- Credentials: Look for certifications from organizations like the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) or the International Air Transport Association (IATA).
- Reviews and Recommendations: Read online reviews or ask friends and family for recommendations.
3. Contact Potential Agents:
- Consultation: Set up an initial consultation to discuss your travel needs and preferences.
- Ask Questions: Inquire about their experience, fees, and what services they offer.
4. Evaluate Their Proposals:
- Itinerary Options: Compare the proposed itineraries from different agents.
- Pricing: Ensure the package fits your budget and compare it with online deals to ensure it’s competitive.
- Inclusions and Exclusions: Understand what’s included in the package (flights, accommodations, transfers, meals, tours) and what is not.
5. Make a Decision:
- Choose the agent that best understands your needs and offers the best value for your trip.
6. Work Closely with Your Agent:
- Communication: Keep open lines of communication for updates and changes.
- Feedback: Provide feedback during and after your trip to help them improve their services.
Benefits of Using a Travel Agent:
- Expert Advice: Agents often have insider knowledge and access to exclusive deals.
- Time Savings: They handle the research, booking, and coordination.
- Personalization: Customized itineraries based on your preferences.
- Support: Assistance with issues during the trip, like cancellations or changes.
Top Travel Agencies to Consider:
- Expedia CruiseShipCenters: Specializes in cruise packages.
- Liberty Travel: Offers personalized vacation planning.
- Travel Leaders Group: Provides a wide range of travel services.
- AAA Travel Services: Known for comprehensive travel planning.
- Virtuoso: Focuses on luxury travel experiences.
Online Travel Agencies (OTAs):
If you prefer to start with an online platform, consider these reputable OTAs:
- Expedia: Offers various packages and discounts.
- Kayak: Great for comparing prices across multiple platforms.
- Travelocity: Known for its extensive range of options.
- Booking.com: Offers accommodations and travel packages worldwide.
- Orbitz: Provides flight, hotel, and car rental deals.
Questions to Ask a Travel Agent:
- What destinations do you specialize in?
- What services do you offer that I can’t find online?
- Are there any fees for your services?
- What happens if there’s an issue during my trip?
- Can you provide references from past clients?