Choosing a qualified travel agent is important for successful travel planning. Personal recommendations, visiting the agent’s office, and evaluating their credentials are key steps. Look for an ASTA member for reputable service and access to great deals. The internet is also a useful tool for researching potential agents.
A travel agent is a person who provides airline or cruise customers with travel information and tips for choosing the right destination. As travel agents are an integral part of a person’s travel plans, it should always be ensured that the travel agent is well qualified to assist in carrying out these plans. The first step when choosing a travel agent is to obtain references from friends, family or business associates. A personal recommendation proves that the travel agent has satisfied customers.
If you can’t get personal recommendations for a travel agent, browsing an agent’s phone book is another option. After making a phone call to a prospective travel agent, it’s best to follow up the phone call with a visit to the agency. This helps determine whether the prospective agent’s office meets certain standards and expectations.
While you are in the travel agent’s office, it is best to sit down and speak to the agent once more. This allows you to evaluate whether or not you have a connection with the travel agent. It’s important to feel comfortable when talking to your travel agent, because you’ll need to ask and answer questions to create the best possible travel plans.
Questions a person should ask themselves when meeting a new potential travel agent include: Does the travel agent answer all my questions? Does the travel agent give me the impression that they are only in business to make a sale? Does it seem like you really want to help people?
A travel agent should also possess powerful credentials. While you’re at the office, it’s a good idea to search the walls for special certifications. If none are visible, it is perfectly acceptable to ask the travel agent about her qualifications.
It is best to go with a travel agent who is not only certified but also qualified. Therefore, it is a good idea to select a travel agent who is a member of the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA). This company requires you to meet certain stringent requirements to join. Therefore, an ASTA member travel agent should be reputable.
As an ASTA member, the agent can get great deals from other members of the company when making travel plans for a client. This can include great rates on flights and cruises, assistance with booking a hotel room, ground transfer options, and even reasonable tickets to attractions. ASTA can also provide information about various travel agents, including whether any complaints have recently been filed against the agent.
The internet is another great place to look for a potential travel agent. Many agents have their own websites, which allow you to gather information about the travel agent, as well as read the feedback left by past clients on message boards.
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