What to look for in a Travel Agent near me
A good travel agent does much more than just booking flights and hotels. They’ll help you with the budgeting, research, and planning, as well as offer expert advice and recommendations. They’ll also be your advocate in the event of a hotel overbooking, an airline strike, or other trip crisis. And they’ll have special relationships with suppliers (tour operators, cruise lines, etc.) that can help them get you discounts or upgrades not available to the general public.
You can interview several agents before choosing one to work with. See how they respond to your questions and concerns, and pay attention to their knowledge of the destinations you’re interested in. Look for certifications like the CTA designation from The Travel Institute and membership in organizations like ASTA.
Some travelers think that using a travel agent is expensive, but you have to remember that these professionals aren’t just making phone calls and clicking buttons for you. They’re charging for their expertise, peace of mind, and time savings.
The best travel agent for you will be someone who knows your travel preferences and can create a custom itinerary that meets your needs. To make sure they’re a fit, start by sharing your budget and trip goals with them. Then, if they’re not a match, keep searching for a travel planner who is. They’ll save you hours of sifting through blogs and top 10 lists and help you have the vacation of your dreams.