There’s nothing more exciting than having a vacation to look forward to. However, the time and effort required scanning luxury villa rentals, available flights, and additional extras can be exhausting. Although online travel booking is easier than ever, it doesn’t always mean you’ll get value for money, and you could be missing out on sizable benefits.

There’s much to be said for the personal touch, and in this feature we’re going to look at some of the reasons why you might want to use a travel agent for your next trip.

Expertise and Access

Whether you’re visiting a destination for the first or fifth time, local knowledge is key and an experienced travel agent can open up doors. This means access to luxury villa rentals and exclusive properties that are not always available to the general public. What’s more, they are able to offer recommendations on the local area and top attractions, and may even be able to help with reservations to the best restaurants and bars in the area.

A Personalized Service

The reality of online bookings is that it’s purposely generic. While this is great in some situations, it doesn’t always serve discerning travellers well.  If you seek a personalised and unique experience, a travel agent will go the extra mile for you. From requesting your preferred amenities, to researching properties that meet your individual budget and needs. This level of personalization is hard to achieve when taken into your own hands.

Time

It may be your greatest asset, so why waste time researching properties, flights and destinations, when a travel agent can fast-track your booking. Not only do online bookings require days of research, but typically you aren’t offered the opportunity to personalise your itinerary either.

Stress-free Travel

Using a travel agent can offer peace of mind and a stress-free trip, knowing that it will be organised professionally and to the highest standard. And, should something derail your plans, you’ll always have a professional on hand to help resolve it.

Complex Itineraries

When travelling with large parties, children, or groups, it pays to have expertise. There can be logistical challenges for each itinerary involved that a travel agent can work around. There is  less flexibility with online bookings, when typically everyone has to be on the same itinerary, unless booked individually. Coordinating this effort is no easy feat, and precisely where travel agents can make a difference.

Administrative Support and International Travel

It can be overwhelming travelling to a far-flung destination, let alone the cost involved. For that reason, a robust booking with a travel agent will allow you to travel in confidence, knowing that your high standards will be met. They can also advise on vaccinations, filling out forms, filing paperwork, insurance, health and safety considerations, and other requirements needed for a smooth and enjoyable trip.

Destination Occasions

If you’re travelling abroad for an event, such as a wedding, you can find a wealth of options when booking online. However, if you’re looking for something unique and special, a travel agent will be able to pull out all the stops. With insight and contacts at the very best luxury vacation rentals, you will certainly be getting the best value for money in some of the most desirable locations.

Support and Care

And finally, when you make an online booking your experience starts and ends there. There’s no follow up or aftercare. It’s not quite the same when using a travel agent, who remains at your disposal, before, during and after your trip, on hand to assist with your needs and send timely reminders. Should an emergency situation arise, or you need to amend your trip, they will be on hand to assist you.