Thursday, March 19, 2009

Travel Agent VS. Booking Online

sailboat on the caribbean
Picture Courtesy of: ticketcomps.com

When it comes to finding the perfect vacation at the perfect price, is it better to book through a travel agent or simply doing it yourself online? Well, to this question there isn't a perfect answer but to help you make your own decision, here are a few things to think about.

What Are Your Expectations?

If you are looking for a vacation package suited specifically to your needs than a travel agent is your best option.

Travel agents have access to a ton of resources that aren't necessarily available to the general public and for this reason, travel agents are best equipped to help you plan a vacation that caters to your needs.

Travel agents are also armed with a ton of facts and information about every destination worldwide which allows them to know where it's sunny, hot, cheap, busy for every destination thus reducing the risk of booking a rainy, or over crowded or cold vacation you might regret.

Do You Have Specific Needs?

If you are a picky eater or can't stay out in the sun too long or for whatever reason need some special care and attention, seeking a travel agent would be best. Again, they can help you find the vacation that will satisfy your special needs and cater to your expectations.

The thing is, certain destinations are known for great food and beaches while others are known for the opposite, consulting a travel agent will allow you to find what you're looking for. You deserve an awesome vacation after all, you've been working hard trying to save-up for this so make sure it's all what it's cracked-up to be and using a travel agent will only be more reassuring.

Are Travel Agents More Expensive Than Booking On Your Own?

No. Actually, the good thing about travel agents is that most are not on commission and therefore have your best interest at heart. Plus, travel agents like a challenge and will work with the budget you provide them with. This is key because with little money, they can find great deals and bargains that we do not have access to and in turn, provide you with an outstanding vacation for less!

I Want To Book On My Own

That's fine and you can still find awesome deals but remember the rule of thumbs, patience, determination, perseverance and lots of research! If items like food, hotel amenities, luxury, beaches, weather, quietness and children aren't going to bother you, than perhaps booking on your own is a better option. Of course, booking on your own allows greater freedom on departure dates, times of travel and destination and can be just as rewarding.

The Truth About It All

The bottom line is, what are you looking for and what do you expect from your vacation? Expectation is everything and there's nothing worst than spending a huge chunk of cash on a disappointing vacation. Do both, research on your own and consult with an agent. You are not binded to the agent and you can decide last minute not to use their services. Travel agents are there to help but there is no contractual agreement between both parties so nothing is stopping you from simply doing both.

Here's a list of travel agencies for you to consult and help you book your next dream vacation!


  1. clubvoyages.com This is Transat Holidays travel agency and they are located just about everywhere in Canada.


  2. Voyages Les Ailes D'or Inc. This is the travel agency I use. Travel expert, Johanne Germain has over 25 years experience and is always happy to work with my challenging budget. See what she has to say about traveling on a budget on my previous post.


  3. CAA Voyages CAA Quebec is a local, Quebec establishment that offers transportation insurance and so much more. What's great about them is that if you have a membership, you can enjoy unique discounts and benefit from great deals, bargains and savings!

For more information consult your local Yellow Pages where you'll find travel agencies worldwide.

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