How to Choose a Travel Agent

If you are booking a quick round-trip flight, you can probably do so online without professional assistance. However, if you are planning a more complicated trip or want to investigate a vacation to a destination you're unfamiliar with, securing the services of a travel agent is the wisest move you can make.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Find a Reliable Agent

1. If you're employed by a company that has an in-house travel agency, start there. Many in-company agencies have secured negotiated rates for airlines, hotels and car rental companies and may be able to secure a substantial discount on your travel plans. They are also highly motivated to give exceptional service, as keeping the employees happy is likely to assure they will keep your company's travel contract in the future.

2. If you do not have an in-house corporate travel office, become a member of AAA, AARP, Costco or Sam's Club or obtain an credit card from a company with a travel department.

3. 
   Cabrillo Monument, San Diego

   Find a travel agent through word of mouth. Do you have a friend who came back from a cruise or exotic vacation raving about her experience? If so, asked her who planned her trip and what sort of fees he charged. When you contact the agent, make sure to let him know you came as a referral from a past client.

4. If the previous three resources don't apply to you, research which travel agencies are experts in the destination you wish to visit. Then check online with the Better Business Bureau to see which one has the highest rating.

Tips & Warnings

• Once you find an agent, make an appointment to meet with her in person.
• Bring a list of any questions you have.
• Ask about passport and visa requirements to the country you wish to visit.
• Ask about any needed shots.
• Ask about the cost and benefits of travel insurance.
• Ask them the best time of year to travel to your desired destination so you don't end up in the Caribbean during hurricane season, for instance.
• Ask about safety and if there have been any government warnings issued for tourists in that region.
• Ask about current luggage and packing restrictions. These change frequently, so ask them again two weeks prior to travel.
• Ask about their service fee, deposit and refund rules.
• Read the fine print in any travel contract you enter into.
• If at all possible, purchase trip cancellation and interruption insurance to make sure you are covered in case of emergency.
• If you are not getting the service you expect from the agent you are working with, don't be afraid to ask an office manager to assign your trip to another agent.

[pacumeme]

on 6/26/2008 great advice