Online Booking Agencies Vs. Traditional Agencies
Whether it be a cruise or a trip to the mountains, vacations are meant to be relaxing. With the right preparation, making reservations does not have to be stressful. If looking to control all aspects of the itinerary, online booking is an option. If looking for more of a hands-off approach, the traditional travel agent route may be better suited. Each has advantages as well as disadvantages.
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Significance
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Online booking is an alternative to the traditional travel agent According to WebMD, "Workaholics come in all shapes and sizes, and the health-related problems associated with work addiction cost an estimated $150 billion per year."
For years, travel agents were used to plan itineraries. They gathered pertinent information such as hotel rates down to small details like offered amenities of a car rental service.
In recent years, online booking has become increasingly popular among travel goers. This eliminated the "middleman" and gave consumers more options.
Function
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Travel agents handle details The working definition of a travel agent is someone that "arranges transportation, accommodations, and tours for travelers." This includes giving details regarding any area dealing with a vacation in which a customer specifies. In short, an agent's job is to find the best possible relaxation experience for their clients.
Online booking is relatively new. It does the exact same thing as a travel agent, minus the agent. It is more of a do-it-yourself approach. Consumers utilize online booking if they know exactly where they want to go, for how long and what price they are willing to pay.
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Features
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Online booking is easily accessible The pros to using a travel agent include receiving information quickly without all the legwork. If traveling overseas, it's the agents job to notify clients of the taxes/duties involved with the ticket purchase price. Also, if booked early enough in advance, discounts are offered.
Some disadvantages include fees charged by the agency as well as inaccessibility during non-business hours. Another drawback is possible miscommunication that could result in an incorrect itinerary.
Advantages of online booking include accessibility twenty-four hours a day. There is also no agency fee. Other benefits include offered discounts if reserved online as well as price comparison.
Some of the cons to booking online are that prices don't necessarily include hidden fees. (ie. international taxes/custom charge). Although most online booking sites have helplines, there are no travel professionals to speak with for specific concerns. Plus, all the research is done by the consumer.
Effects
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Improper online booking can be expensive One thing to look for in a travel agent is whether or not they are consumer conscious as well as being well trained. This is to ensure that an agent provides the best vacation experience for their client. Agents should be listed under American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA).
With online booking, improper booking is expensive. Most sites do not offer immediate refunds so therefore proper research should be done before making the reservation.
Considerations
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Weekend getaways are an option too If finances do not allow for an overseas or even cross country vacation, there are other options. Taking a family drive to a historic landmark only a few hours away may be just as relaxing.
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References
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