Where do you start when it comes to selecting and using a travel agent? If you’re new to traveling or just don’t have the time to plan your next vacation or business trip, a good travel agent is there to help.
Simply put, using a travel agent saves significant time, reduces planning stress, and can provide access to exclusive perks like room upgrades or special rates. Agents like my friend,Shannan, offer expert, firsthand knowledge to curate the perfect itinerary and act as an advocate for resolving travel issues.
Travel agents have “been there and done that,” and can offer insider trips. They didn’t get into the business because they sit at home. They travel. They go on the same cruises and visit the same resorts as you and I. They stay in the same hotels and visit the same cities. So who better to be in-the-know than someone who makes traveling their business.
Instead of spending countless hours researching your cruise or available excursions, travel agents do the planning, booking, and coordination. And when things go wrong, an experienced travel agent will provide personalized support, saving you from those long customer service lines.
Where do you start?
To choose the right travel agent, start by talking. Speak to family and friends or visit online forums and Facebook groups to get the right recommendations. Then, and most importantly, verify their credentials. Websites such as theAmerican Society of Travel Advisors or BBB Accreditation are good places to start.
Prioritize agents with special expertise in your destination or type of trip. My buddy Shannan is the person you want for all things Disney, cruising, and even international travel. She has done it all, and can plan it all for you.
When interviewing potential advisors, ask how they get commissioned, what their expertise is in the kind of trip you’re hoping for, and which money-saving deals or perks they can provide.
What next?
Once you’ve found a travel agent, tell them about your budget, where you want to go, and you want to manage your time. A good agent will take all this information as a starting point to begin planning your perfect getaway.