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Benefits of Using a Travel
Agent!
Today, with
the overwhelming number of sources for travel information
(the Internet, cable television, newspapers, magazines,
guidebooks, etc.), it's no wonder the consumer is confused.
Yet that's precisely why the services of a professional
travel consultant are more valuable than ever. .
The best
thing an agent can do is to match up a traveler with the
vacation that's right for them. The professional travel
consultant builds relationships with their clients to learn
their interests and lifestyles, as well as their
dispositions.
Below is a
list of some of the important services, which are either
provided free or for a nominal charge, by travel agents:
1.
Distilling the product information: Through an
on-going and time-consuming process of familiarization,
continuing education and customer feedback, the agent
becomes a travel expert.
2.
Investigating and supplying competitive information:
No single supplier is going to advise a consumer that a
better route or a better fare is available on a competing
carrier.
3.
Staying abreast of the most current and timely promotions:
Via daily faxes, agent-only e-mail transmissions, and
their relationships with their district sales managers,
agents are obtaining the most current promotional
information.
4.
Analyzing the current promotions: The cheapest is not
always the best.
5.
Clarifying the fine print, such as cancellation penalties
and restrictions: Again, the benefits of a
professional's experience can save a traveler money . . .
and headaches.
6.
Making recommendations for travel-related options:
Travel agents share the experience and knowledge they
accumulate about a variety of travel topics – from where
to eat, where to shop and what to pack.
7.
Simplifying the research and subsequent transaction:
Like a personal shopper, agents can provide one-stop
shopping for travelers who require air arrangements,
rental cars, cruise accommodations and hotel stays – with
suggestions that are in the best interest of the client,
not the supplier.
8.
Enhancing the trip with value-added benefits and
amenities: Agents can add to the client's experience
by sending a bottle of wine, providing a special land
package, a specific escort or other customer amenities.
9.
Using their clout to obtain the best possible in seemingly
impossible situations: Whether it's airline seats,
hotel rooms or cruise space, the travel agent has more
buying power than the consumer.
10.
Getting problems resolved: The agent serves as the
consumer's advocate in the event something inadvertently
goes wrong.
The
use of outside service providers for many transactions, such
as tax preparation, isn't questioned. Similarly, if one is
going to spend hundreds or thousands of dollars, as well as
a good chunk of valuable leisure time, it makes great sense
to use a professional. |
