Why use a travel agent?

Melanie Chambers
Published: July 3, 2008

Travel agents can save you time, money and stress. We are professionals who know what questions to ask, where to look for answers, and how to navigate through the world of the travel industry.

Of course, the person who does not have access to a computer or is not computer savvy would quickly turn to their local travel agent. However, there are seven less obvious reasons to contact your local travel professional, they are:

-If you are pressed for time. If you’re busy schedule doesn’t allow time for travel research or if you need to be on your way quickly. A travel agent can do the “leg-work” for you in an efficient and timely manner.

-If you want to take a cruise – your travel professional can find excellent discounts and may get you a nice upgrade. Sometimes travel companies have groups that you can join for a discount, for instance. The number of cruise companies, cruise ships and destinations makes it difficult for the layperson to sort out the best alternatives.
Especially with first-time cruisers we try to select the best choice for you based on your interests, time, money and travel experience.

-If you are a frequent traveler can benefit from establishing a good rapport with an agent, as that agent will work very hard to keep your valuable business. They will know your travel preferences and automatically seek what would pleasure you most. Loyalty to an agency can be a great asset and comfort for a seasoned traveler.

-If a problem arises. Travel professionals can anticipate trouble and help you to avoid pitfalls common in travel. We can share our experienced knowledge and advice about destinations, hotels and resorts, tours and cruises.

We can steer you to what is best for your pocketbook or lifestyle, to the documentation needed for an overseas trip, and to optional trip insurance policies. We will help when disaster calls while you are traveling, such as hurricanes, terrorist attacks or illness. Clients have found invaluable the aid and support extended by their travel agent.

-If you are planning a complicated itinerary can be a daunting task. The expertise of your travel professional, his or her knowledge, contacts and experience can help you build an extensive itinerary (one demanding various modes of transportation, unusual lodging, and local tours) or facilitate getting to an exotic location.

-If you have special needs. The elderly, physically challenged or ill, can benefit from the extra care travel agents provide. We can negotiate access for medical equipment such as wheelchairs and oxygen and can find safe and easily accessible accommodations.

-If there are business interruptions such as strikes or bankruptcies. Recently, a day before clients went to Hawaii and three days before they were to use Aloha Airlines, I had to quickly make new flight arrangements for them. You see we were given just 24-hour notice that Aloha Airlines was ceasing all operations. I knew that the other local airlines would be inundated with calls and seats would rapidly vanish. I was successful in getting them convenient flights to their next destination, and advised them to seek a refund, from Aloha Airlines through their credit card company immediately. All turned out well. They had a great trip, without dealing with an airline hassle once they got to Hawaii.

Always carry your travel agent’s card so that, should there be an emergency while you are traveling, you might easy seek her help.

Melanie Chambers, CTC, is a travel consultant for Battlefield Travel in downtown Culpeper. She can be reached at 825-1393 or .