My First Blog Post- Travel Agents Still exist??

In November 2012, I started my journey as a home based travel agent.  I spent many hours learning about the business, selecting my company name (Tip Top Travel), setting up my website, and ordering business cards.  With all the pieces in place, I was ready to launch and network my business.  

My excitement and enthusiasm about my new business venture was met with confusion and the same question---"Travel agents still exist?  I thought everyone just booked their vacations online"?   I realized that although I had many of important details of my business covered, I had not prepared myself for constant requirement to explain my new venture.    I understand why people think travel agents are "outdated."  We will live in a world of immediate gratification, where people think of an idea, have a question or want to share a thought and can instantly fulfill their desire.  But planning a vacation, where you spend hard earned money, take time off work, and hope to relax, should be done with care.  This is where a travel agent comes in- we offer top notch customer service and care.  If any issues arise during the booking process, or while you are traveling, you know that you have an advocate to fix the problem.

  When you choose to book a vacation through online sites like Expedia or Cheap Caribbean, you are on your own. Once you hit "submit payment" there is no turning back, so when you arrive at your resort and you realize that you "ocean view room" is obstructed by a dumpster (true story!) you are on your own.  Sure you can contact the front desk or call Expedia directly, but you should not be on the phone or negotiating with the resort manager, you should be on the  beach, cocktail in hand, relaxing and enjoying your vacation.  If you had booked with a travel agent, it would take one single text or phone call to them- then off to the beach!

One of the first trips I booked was a honeymoon to Hawaii for friends.  I  wanted the trip to be just right, it was their honeymoon after all.  I remember the day they left, I waited by phone as I wanted to be assured that they arrived with no problems.  They were so happy with the hotel and the trip, that they contacted me and asked if I could extend their vacation by 3 days.  One text to their travel agent, and they enjoyed Maui for three more days.  

So to answer the question- Yes, travel agents do still exist and they offer you piece of mind, care and quality when you travel-oh and at no extra cost! (another myth about travel agents)

 The next time you are ready to book online, remember I still exist- and I can make sure you receive a top-notch vacation- with a real ocean view!

Emily Bourdua
Tip Top Travel
www.yourtiptoptravel.com
https://www.facebook.com/yourtiptoptravel
yourtiptoptravel@gmail.com