Travel agents offer a breadth of knowledge and experience to help you with your vacation travel planning. To identify the right agent to work with and to get to know what your travel agent can offer, start by asking them these simple questions.
Do you have a specialty?
Some agents specialize in a wide variety travel destinations or special interest travel, while others prefer to concentrate on one or a select few specialties. If you are planning a cruise vacation, you probably don’t want an agent that specializes in African safaris. Find a specialist that has experience planning the type of trip you want to take. If the agent is unable to help you, they will often suggest an agent that can.
Are there any particular airlines/hotels/cruise lines you like to work with?
Travel Leaders travel agents have unique partnerships with a wide variety of travel suppliers. Those partnerships can often merit you extra perks, discounts or amenities. Skilled travel agents will understand how to best leverage these relationships to design the perfect trip for you.
Have you been to the destination?
Nothing can compare to the real thing. Travel agents take advantage of as many opportunities as they can to travel so that they can offer their clients a first-hand account and sound advice.
Do you charge for your services?
Most agents do charge a fee for their services, which may vary depending on your travel requirements. The fee is compensation for the agent’s time, planning and expertise. Know their fee before you request the agent to do any work.
What is your background?
In your conversation, an agent may tell you about their industry accreditations. Industry accreditation is obtained through the Travel Institute and CLIA (Cruise Line International Association) – the designations are a mark of excellence and professionalism in the travel and cruise industry. Common designations include the following with varying levels of requirements:
- Certified Travel Associate (CTA)
- Certified Travel Counselor (CTC)
- Accredited Cruise Counselor (ACC)
- Master Cruise Counselor (MCC)
- Elite Cruise Counselor (ECC)
- Elite Cruise Counselor Scholar (ECCS)
In addition, most agents have taken training to specialize in a certain aspect, region or destination, such as being a Train Specialist, Europe Specialist or Disney Specialist.
Finding a travel agent can be fun and you’ll be pleasantly surprised how much a travel agent can really offer for you. Just take a little time, listen and ask questions, and you’ll be sure to find the right travel agent for you.
Contact a local Travel Leaders travel agent for professional travel planning and vacation advice.Please enter your zip code to find the Travel Leaders agency nearest you.
