If so, then chances are you're the type of person who doesn't need help from anyone, let alone a travel agent. If you're happy to proudly sport a lopsided mullet then via con dios my friend. You probably won't be able to see all that you're missing.
Folks have the internet for vacation planning. The world is at your finger tips. Power tools in the hands of the unskilled can be a recipe for disaster.
Just because you have millions of choices glaring at you from your computer screen, doesn't mean You'll find RIGHT vacation choices. Search ANY vacation spot, hotel, flight schedule, attraction or restaurant and google will deliver you millions of options. Too many choices creates confusion, analysis paralysis, stress and uncertainty.
If you've been slaving all year to afford that anticipated week of vacation bliss what you want is focus, confidence and joyful anticipation - not worry and dread.
Folks often don't realize that having a travel agent at their side is like having a trusted tour guide who will LEAD THEM TO the vacation of their dreams.
A travel agent works to make your life easy, steer you away from any harm and make sure you get to see and experience everything your heart desires. A really great travel agent will go beyond your expectations and offer experiences that you didn't even realize you couldn't live without.
So if you still need convincing, here are a few reasons why you should use a travel agent to help you plan your next vacation...
Save Time -folks don't calculate how much their own time costs. Studies show it takes a minimum of 5 hours to properly research, shop and book a typical vacation. That's almost of full day of work squeezed in between work, homework and soccer practice. A good travel agent has the skills, knowledge and tools to get this done FOR YOU in short order. They also have the resources and contacts to put together highly complex and complicated custom itineraries too. Just imagine what you could be doing if you had a free day to yourself instead of listening to Disney Tunes for several hours to make dining reservations!
In addition, travel agents know how to "time" your itinerary properly to offer you the most fun while avoiding hassles and headaches. Those "cheap" online flights you found online with those short connection times put you at risk for spending several long days waiting at the airport instead of having fun on the beach.
Stay Safe - A good travel agent works with trusted partners. Vacations are suppose to be fun and carefree. Most people don't want to think about any potential problems. a good travel agent has your back! They know which companies are licensed, bonded, insured and in good financial standing. Your agent wants your health, experiences and finances to be protected and free from worry. It's our job to worry about all this stuff so that you don't have to. There are so many travel scams out there it's often impossible to spot the risks when you think you've found a real bargain.
Ever heard the expression, "Friends in high places"...good travel agents not only have friends in high places but they also have friends in every place on earth. The best travel agents have previously visited your vacation destination (on their own dime) and have made important industry contacts that will in turn, help their clients. Travel agents who have a huge contact list means they know exactly who to call to enhance and protect you and your family throughout your entire journey.
Saves You Money - You don't have to pay a travel agent for their services. Most travel agents work on pure commission. Yes, there a "few" that will simply make recommendations based on putting more coin in their pocket. Good travel agents are also very good business people. They know building a trusted relationship with their clients means return business year after year along with many referrals. This sort of business plan means recommending what is best for their clients. This is why a good travel agent looks to give their clients the best value and save them money whenever possible.
Most people don't realize how many different ways a travel agent can make more "cents" for you...