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Why Book with a Travel Agent instead of Online?
By Amee Gohil, Puja Travels International
“Why should I use a travel agent?,” is a question that is frequently asked of travel agents. Today, with an overwhelming number of sources for travel information (the Internet, cable television, newspapers, magazines, guidebooks, etc.), it is no wonder consumers are confused. Yet that is precisely why the services of a professional travel agent are even more valuable than ever.
A professional travel agent builds relationships with clients to understand their interests and lifestyles as well as learn more about client personalities, which is not possible when booking online.
Read on to learn of the significant benefits a travel agent can offer over online booking. |
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 Personal Service
Travel agencies not only schedule and book your flight, but they are also able to build a full itinerary for your trip with better connections. With years of experience, travel agents can give recommendations for different airlines with varying prices and better connections, book tours, ground transportation, attractions, and more. Along with personalized recommendations, travel agencies are available before, during, and after your trip to answer any questions or address any problems. Need a last minute itinerary change? Just sit back, and let your expert travel agent handle the change, especially in cases of travel date changes/cancellations/refunds, etc.
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Savings and Discounts
Good deals can be found easily on sites like Expedia, Travelocity, and Kayak. But unknown to most travellers, booking through a travel agency can actually cost less. Online booking gives you the current ticket price with fine print while you are viewing your options. Travel agents are there to always get you the best price and better connections, doing all the research needed to find a terrific deal for you. These agents also have access to promotional offers and exclusive deals that are not typically available through online booking.
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 Industry Knowledge and Resources
Travel agents have years of experiences, giving them access to special resources that are not possible with booking online. Travel agents know the best airlines, hotels and connections to meet your travel needs to any given destination. Travel agents often have an easier time cancelling or changing a flight or reservation at your ease, which is not possible online booking (and the change will likely cost you). My firm recently received a flight cancellation request due to medical emergencies just one day prior to the travel date. By following through with the airlines, the customer received a refund without incurring any extra fees, which can be a costly and tedious process.
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 Stress and Time Savings
Planning and booking a trip, complete with flights, tours, rental cars, etc., can take hours. Hours that could be better spent meeting with clients, making sales, or even spending time with family. Whether you go on one or several trips a year, it is no secret that trip planning takes time, and by hiring a travel agency, you save hours of research, shopping around, and planning.
In paramount interest of travellers, a professional travel agent can not only save you valuable time and money, but also offers a personal experience, connection, and sincere conversation about your travel that cannot be found through an online booking.
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About the Author
 Amee Gohil is President of Puja Travels International, an agency that has been offering full-service travel planning since 2004. With over 13 years experience in planning personal travel /tours/vacations/cruises, the agency is well-versed in and known for excellent customer service. Available all day, agents specialize in working with South Asian Communities and are proficient in speaking several languages including Hindi, Gujarati, and English. Puja Travels International pledges “to offer the best price and excellent customer service with great savings.”
To learn more or for help with your next vacation, visit www.pujatravels.com, email info@pujatravels.com, or call us toll free at (866) 554-7852.
In paramount interest of travellers, a professional travel agent can not only save you valuable time and money, but also offers a personal experience, connection, and sincere conversation about your travel that cannot be found through an online booking.
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