In today’s digital age, booking travel online seems like the easiest and most convenient option. However, studies have shown that Gen Z and millennials primarily prefer to use OTAs (online travel agents) for their travel needs, whereas Baby Boomers typically rely on traditional local travel agents. This highlights a generational divide in travel booking preferences.
However, the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced a significant shift in these patterns. Many travellers, including younger generations, are increasingly turning to local travel agents. This change is driven by the challenges faced with cancellations and rebooking through OTAs during the pandemic.
Travel agents can help you save money: Although people traditionally prioritized OTAs for deals, the recent trend underscores that local travel agents can offer competitive pricing. They may secure bundled packages or leverage their connections to find good deals, providing a compelling alternative to online booking platforms.
Insider Knowledge and Expertise
Travel agents are industry insiders with extensive knowledge and connections. They are often the first to know about new travel trends, deals, and changes before they even hit the internet booking portals. This insider access allows them to craft unique and cost-effective travel experiences tailored to your preferences.
Moreover, travel agents deeply understand the nuances of different destinations, hotels, airlines, and travel providers. Their expertise ensures you avoid potential pitfalls and make the most of your vacation time and budget.
Personalized Service and Support
Online booking engines are transactional – you input your dates and destination, and it spits out options based on an algorithm. A good travel agent takes the time to truly understand your travel style, interests, and budget. They then leverage their knowledge and connections to craft a customized itinerary that matches your needs perfectly.
Additionally, travel agents provide invaluable support throughout your journey. If any issues arise with flights, hotels, or activities, they can quickly resolve them for you, saving you from the headache and hassle. This personalized service and advocacy is something no online portal can match.
Exclusive Deals and Amenities
Due to their close relationships with travel suppliers, travel agents often have access to exclusive deals, upgrades, and amenities that you simply can’t find online. This could include free breakfast, spa credits, room upgrades, special tour packages and more.
These value-added perks can significantly enhance your travel experience while also saving you money compared to booking everything a la carte yourself online.
Safety and Security
In today’s world, having a trusted travel professional in your corner provides an extra layer of security and assistance, especially when traveling to remote or unfamiliar destinations. Your agent can provide vital advice, local contacts, and make sure you have support available in case any issues or emergencies arise during your travels.
Saving You Time and Hassle
For many, the biggest benefit of using a travel agent is the time and hassle it saves. Rather than spending hours scouring the internet and cross-checking review sites, an experienced agent can quickly plan an amazing trip aligned with your interests and budget.
From finding the ideal hotels and flights to recommending must-see activities and restaurants, a travel agent handles all the tedious details, so you can simply enjoy the journey. In the era of automation, there is still immense value in leveraging the expertise and personal touch of a seasoned travel professional.
The author is the Director of Brightsun Travel, India.