Regardless of the cost, your best bet is to arrange your vacations with a travel agent. Good service is what you are really looking for. A travel agent is there to call if something goes wrong, and they take the extra time with you to make sure all the details are right. I’ve tried both ways, and I was always a little concerned about what I would do if there were any reservation or flight problems. Having a travel agent brings alot of peace of mind.

By cantbeme_2000 on Jan 11, 2009

Depends. Generally things are cheaper online. You are right, a travel agent does earn commission through the companies when they book. However, sometimes when you’re booking online, the commission that the travel agent would earn would still be included in the price as a mark-up (increased profits for the company…plus it gives travel agents a chance at making sales).

However, travel agents also get first picks at deals. They tend to get exclusive news regarding sales. Often a tour company/hotel/airline will advise agents of a sale or promotion. When I was working at a travel agency, we got nonstop faxes and e-mails regarding promotions.

If you are new at traveling, I recommend going through a travel agent. Those who are super fussy and picky should also go through a travel agent. Neurotics who want to ensure that EVERY detail is perfect should also go to travel agents. Travel agents also have the ability to put recommendations next to clients when they book - example: in the event someone in a higher price hotel room cancels, we can state that our client would be happy with an upgrade…this tends to happen a lot with cruises.

By miss_jen_b on Jan 14, 2009

no loss to you. time save only. no dif in costs.

By tvd1943_vgr on Jan 16, 2009

I went for online agent. Take for example, when I book my trip Perth, Australia.

First, I went to the Quantas/BA (or other airline of your choice) Website to get my tickets.

Second, I went to the Hotel website to book my accommodation.

Finally, I went to Land Tour website (ATP kings, Grey Lines, etc..) to book for my Land Tour.

Combing all this, I got myself a “free and easy “and relaxing tour.

As you now what, it is much cheaper than getting the complete tour package. However, you must be willing to do all these sourcing and booking yourself. For me, it is worth it and I can choose the Time & Place I want to go. You cannot really do that if you book a complete tour. Best of all, it is cheaper. You must understand, travel agent have overheads to pay!

So, my suggestion is, if you have the time and willing to do it, do it yourself.

See if this website can give help you to make some decisions and give you some ideas.

By Energy on Jan 17, 2009

Travel agents always have cheaper prices then anything you can find online. It’s only a matter of finding an honest travel agent then. Generally speaking travel agents can give you better price and better service of course, plus since they are licensed it’s practically a guarantee that in case you have any problems, they are there to assist you.

By Alan on Jan 20, 2009