How to find a Travel Agent near me
Ask friends and family for referrals, and interview agents before making your choice. Look for certification (for example, the CLIA icon below an agent’s name indicates that they are a Certified Cruise Specialist) and scores in our Ratings Tables that indicate how well an agency performs on cost-saving tactics like shopping for third-party discount airfares, finding hotels or resorts offering special promotions, and negotiating with cruise lines to get you good prices.
In addition to saving you time and energy, a great travel agent can also make your trip less stressful by handling all the details for you. This way, you can focus on enjoying your vacation.
A professional travel agent has access to a wide range of online booking tools that let them search for the best deals on airfares, hotels and car rentals. They can also tap into a network of suppliers that pays commissions on certain types of trips (such as cruises) and use their negotiated rates to get you better deals than what’s available to the public.
Travel agents who know their destinations can also save you money by suggesting alternative activities and recommending budget-friendly restaurants and attractions. For example, if you’re planning to go to NYC, ask an agent who lives there how to avoid crowds and get the most out of your visit. In addition, they can alert you to any current security warnings or help you obtain visas and other travel documents.