YOU'VE GOT A FRIEND TRAVEL

So, today is the first National Travel Agent Day in the UK.

Intrepid Travel (the largest small group travel company in the world) has launched it today. According to them, this celebration of agents across the UK is set to take place annually on the last Friday of the UK summer school term, just before the summer holiday begins.

And, I think today is a very good day to write about why you would be better off using a travel agent rather than a computer.

Now, you want to go away. What’s your usual starting point? Maybe you bring up Google and type in the simple query, poll your friends on trips they’ve recently taken. Or, if you have a particular destination in mind, you immediately begin tracking down cheap flights and hotel stays. 

That was all fine and good until now, but travel has changed due to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19), and booking behaviors have changed along with it. 

In the past, travel agents were “worth it” based on the type of holidays you wanted. For example, if you sought a solo trip for a few days at a low cost, you could probably find a cost-effective solution without consulting an expert. But if you wanted to travel as a large group, embark on a luxurious trip, score a cruise deal, or go somewhere more exotic, then working with a travel agent was the right path. 

Now, travel agents are far more valuable, not only in booking vacations but also in providing guidance.  You can transfer the time-consuming tasks of locking in flights, hotel stays, rental cars, and multiple stops to them, while also receiving up-to-date information on whether or not you should travel at all. 

Regardless of the situation, here’s why speaking to a travel agent is worth it.

YOU DON'T PAY THEM.

Let’s start with the best one.

A travel agent, who will save you money and make your trip better, costs you exactly NOTHING.

Yes, you read that right! 

A common misconception is that you cover your travel agent's commission. In reality, travel agents get paid a percentage from the suppliers that you end up booking with. And that means they have your best interests in mind. It is their job to do the research, sort through the offers and read the fine print for you, saving you time and stress, for FREE!

THEY ARE PERSONAL.

A travel agent's service doesn't end with the sale. No website will make sure your passport is valid, you're checked in ahead of time, have seats, dinner or show reservations, sightseeing and other plans that make your trip easier and more memorable.

That’s where travel agents are most helpful: They’re human. 

Agents won’t suggest anything without listening first. They come to know you.

they know what it means when you say 'luxury' or 'affordable' or 'clean'. They communicate constantly to make sure to meet your standards and fit your budget, before and after you book. They are always a phone call away - so your trip will truly be a vacation.

THEY KNOW YOUR DESTINATION.

You book travel for pleasure. Agents do it for a living. They've been there, done that, booked or trained on it. Just as you would in any other profession, agents are constantly improving their knowledge. They know the latest travel restrictions and requirement of the country you're travelling to.

One of the best things about working with a travel agent is their knowledge and expertise regarding your desired holiday spot. Whether you're looking for a personalised Disney vacation, or an unforgettable European cruise, there's an agent out there who specialises in planning it all. They can tell you what nearby attractions are worth your time, and which to skip. And they can advise you on restaurants and fun activities based on your group size.

THEY HAVE SPECIAL ACCESS TO DEALS.

Here’s a secret of the travel industry: Some of the best deals aren’t available to the public. However, through partnerships or subscriptions, travel agents have access to these deals, whether they’re upgrades, lower rates, or all-inclusive packages at a discounted price. 

Sometimes, these deals also come with perks. So when you book a hotel with your agent, don’t be surprised to find yourself treated like a VIP.

THEY'LL THINK OF THE THINGS YOU WOULDN'T.

Travel agents do this all the time, so it's normal that they'll think of the things you might simply overlook. For example: Did you know that some countries won't allow you in if your passport has a few too many stamps?

YOU ARE HELPING A LOCAL BUSINESS.

Finally, by using a travel agent you're helping local business owner succeed rather than make a big company or impersonal website richer.

So the next time you want to take a trip, consider using the expertise of a travel agent. They'll provide the right solutions, if you ask the right questions. 

You'll receive invaluable guidance from an experienced and knowledgeable professional and also enjoy that all-important peace of mind that comes from knowing you're in good hands. You will soon be embarking on the trip of a lifetime!

And here is a little interview with TV personality Eamonn Holmes about why he prefers to use a travel agent..https://www.facebook.com/115273795189909/posts/3519877501396171/

Remember, YOU'VE GOT A FRIEND IN TRAVEL.