Travel

Travel Agents Vs. Online Travel Agency

People have different reasons for traveling. Most people would like to get away from stress caused by work or relationship. Others would travel for business reasons and are hoping to have enough time to explore more of their destination, at the same time, be able to relax before returning to work. The most wonderful reason of all is those people who have enough money to splurge and travel out of boredom. Wouldn't this be what we all want?

Planning comes in when any of these reasons are realized. People who have enough money to spend don't have problems in planning since they could easily contact someone to arrange everything for them. But what if you are one of those people who are stressed by work or is running away from their routinary lives and is looking for excitement and adventure? Traveling would be the only answer and you wouldn't have time to plan and research for a good travel spot or the best hotel. There wouldn't be enough time to find the most affordable rates and packages. This is why most people resort to online travel agencies rather than finding a travel agent who could plan the trip for them. But there are those who would still prefer to go to a travel agent as they feel more secure to transact with a live person than on the internet. So which is better when it comes to booking for a trip?

Let's compare both.

1. Online travel agencies usually offer a very low rate. Since the business is booming right now, agencies also compete with each other when it comes to providing the lowest rate for travelers. This would be in favor with the travelers since they have many to choose from and all they need to do is to find the cheapest rate there is. However, the service is limited as some online travel agencies would only offer service for hotel or flight reservations or car rentals. They do not offer a tour package, something that a travel agent could do.

Travel agents usually have higher rates than online travel agencies. However, they would be able to provide a tour package for travelers and advise you on where to go as travel agents are trained for this. You could also provide them your budget and let them work basing on your this.

2. Online travel agencies could save you time. So if you are making last minute reservations, better to go through them. These travel agencies offer 24/7 access for you to book and plan for your trip.

Though travel agents would take time to arrange your flight, hotel, tours and other things you would like them to take care for your trip, they would be able to accomplish these things systematically and would be able to present to you an organized itinerary. Also, you would be able to contact them should you encounter problems in the middle of your trip.

3. Online agencies might have a 24/7 access but most of them don't have a 24/7 customer service wherein you could contact should something goes wrong with your reservations. On the other hand, reliable travel agents would be able to assist and guide you even if you are thousand miles away. Travel agents could also provide the proper information you need about your desitination without the hassle of you you searching via the internet.

4. It is easy for more travelers to trust a travel agent than the internet especially when providing credit card details for payment..

These are the few differences of an online travel agency and a travel agent. It depends on which service you would like to use. If you want an easier way of booking and plan your itinerary by yourself, then the best way is to use an online travel agency. Just make sure that you pick the right one. Be sure that you would have the necessary contact information you could use should you encounter problems with your reservations. It would aso be better to check the company's profile, terms and conditions before making a booking. If possible, try to see if you would be able to contact someone from the company. Not all online travel agencies limit their service via internet alone. Some do have contact information and a live person to talk to. If you prefer to have your itinerary planned out for you, then a travel agent would be the best choice.

With these in mind, remember to make the right decisions and enjoy your vacation.

posted by Traveler's guide @ 3:40 PM