The Travel Agent Is Your Friend

What do you think when you think of a travel agent? You're probably picturing the words 'middleman,' someone who offers little value in turn for costing a fortune. You can be forgiven for thinking that for sure, because the airline and hotelier industry has spent a fortune on marketing to help reinforce the opinion that buying direct from them is your best option. But travel agents still have a place in today's marketplace - many markets have someone in the middle for a good reason, and the tourism industry is no different. Agents continue to provide an important role, and are still a great option in many cases.

The tourism industry has undergone massive transformation in the digital age, and in some ways the travel agent's role has become misunderstood. While some things are different, many things - including the network of systems and rules that pins together many of the cruise, hotel, and airline systems - is still the same, and a travel agent knows them better than anyone else. You might think it's all simpler now because of the massive investment that travel brands have made to improve their online presence, but there is a lot hiding under the surface. Wouldn't you rather work with someone who has access to special deals, or avoid having to spend the night on the floor of an airport when an extra $15 can get you on an earlier flight?

Connecting with the perfect travel agent can sometimes feel like a needle in a haystack. Almost every agent has a number of professional certifications, so you need to look deeper at things like what's their personality and branding style. You have to find someone you resonate with. Maybe you need to sit face to face with someone, so therefore you'll have to look for someone who is based nearby you - just open up the Yellow Pages and have a look. You might consider someone that is aligned with an event, such as a destination wedding planner for your honeymoon. Whatever it is, be sensitive to your needs.

When you should use a travel agent? Oh the classic question. If you could consider your travel a "once in a lifetime" event, then that's probably a good case for a travel agent. Also if it involves a large party, any more than 4 people, that's also a good candidate. Remember, an agent isn't there just to deal with some travel reservations and booking a car rental for you. They can ensure you have the right visa paperwork, advise if travel insurance is truly necessary, and be there for you in the event of problems or issues in transit. Isn't it night to know you've got someone you can call, god forbid if there's an emergency?

Where are you headed for your next vacation? Regardless of whether you know where it is you want to be or not, you now are clear as to the value and role of a travel agent in today's marketplace and whether one is for you on that next trip.

Aidan Jones is a writer for Sharing Travel Experiences, a travel more online magazine. They offer a unique and popular travel concierge service.

Shop eBay for Brand Name Luggage Below: