Remember the Travel Agencies of Western Springs?

Prior to the advent of the Internet, most residents booked their airline and hotel reservations through a travel agency. And, at one time, our village had three such agencies. Since most agency services were covered by commissions paid by the airlines and hotels, there was no additional cost to the passengers.

In 1968, the All Suburban Travel Agency opened its doors at 813 Burlington. Business must have been good because, in 1973, the agency moved to larger quarters at 704 Hillgrove, just east of the Village Hall. In 1978, the agency moved again, this time to the Garden Market Shopping Center on 47th Street. In 1981, the agency took a major step forward when it installed the Apollo computer system, allowing it to book airline reservations online, as well as hotel rooms. And, in 1992, the agency became affiliated with the Carlson Travel Network. In 2008, the agency relocated back downtown to 807 Burlington Avenue and changed its name to Travel Leaders.

In 1970, the First National Bank of Western Springs (now Heartland Bank & Trust) decided to enter the travel business, too. It even set aside a portion of its lobby for the bank-owned Western Springs Travel Agency. In 1977, the agency relocated to the southwest corner of Wolf Road & Burlington Avenue (now occupied by Kavooras & Bouzios CPA’s). See photo. In late 1979, the agency installed the SABRE computer system, allowing it to book airline and hotel reservations directly, as well as issue computerized tickets. By 1988, the agency had no fewer than 11 employees. But, by the mid-1990’s, the agency had closed its doors.

A third agency, Take Off Travel, briefly operated at 4365 Lawn Avenue, just north of the Prudential Real Estate office.

‘What led to the demise of most travel agencies? As airline earnings deteriorated in the 1980’s, most carriers began reducing their commission payouts to travel agencies. And, in the 1990’s, with the advent of the Internet, many residents began booking travel arrangements themselves using home computers and, more recently, “smart phones”. As a result, travel agency fortunes declined nationwide.

Despite this, many Western Springs residents still prefer to book their cruises and more complex itineraries with a travel agency. Why? Many travelers like to discuss their vacation alternatives with experienced travel agents before selecting their hotels and resorts. So, local residents need not be concerned. Travel Leaders, located at 807 Burlington, is still in business assisting travelers.

Each week, the Western Springs Historical Society presents a “Blast from the Past”. To view prior stories, visit us at www.westernspringshistory.org or just click on the author’s name shown above.