"Does anyone even use travel agents anymore?"
It's a valid question. You see very few traditional brick-and-mortar travel agencies, so the logical conclusion is that they no longer have value - no one needs them anymore.
It is actually quite the opposite. The physical location of a travel agency may have changed but their value is rising rapidly once again. According to a PhocusWright study, they found 1/3 of the US travel market is still being booked by travel agents.
So, where can you find the modern-day travel agent? Why use a travel agent when you can go online?
Well, a travel agent is online! Online travel agencies, such as iCruise.com, are not, in fact, call centers full of robot telemarketers. It may surprise you, but if you call the toll-free number listed on the online travel agency's website, a real live person answers the phone. And guess what, that person is a real live travel agent!!
What exactly do travel agents offer? Why would you want to 'take the time' to call?
- Google "Cruise": 465,000,000 results
- Google "How to Book a Cruise": 197,000,000 results
- Google "Cruise Questions": 103,000,000 results
- Google "Cruise Deals": 89,400,000 results
- Go.. - Okay, we'll stop. Needless to say, booking travel online can be overwhelming.
According to Think with Google, the average traveler visits 22 travel-related sites during 9.5 research sessions over a course of 6 total hours prior to booking. Daydreaming and looking at destination photos is delightful, of course. But, the tedious process of searching site after site for the lowest deal or making sure you book the right ship on the right date in the right ocean can be somewhat mind-numbing.
Planning a vacation is supposed to be fun, not mind-numbing and stressful.
Enter why travel agents are pretty amazing.
1. Guidance and Expertise: Your life raft in a sea of confusion.
Just as you have certifications and ongoing education in your field, travel agents are certified professionals and participate in extensive training and development with ongoing educational programs. They also have personal travel experience and the travel experiences of their clients.
This translates to knowledge - knowledge that you are able to tap into! Travel agencies represent all major cruise lines, you won't be 'sold' just one line or option, rather your agent will guide you in the right direction by asking the right questions. Your answers will help pair you with the appropriate cruise line, ship, itinerary and accommodations.
Choosing a cruise is not the same as selecting a flight or hotel. There are many factors to consider that an agent will be able to cover with you quickly, so you are able to make an informed decision and know what to expect. Also, they will be sure to inform the cruise line of any special medical or dietary needs you have, so you book the proper room and the ship is informed before you sail.
2. You're Not Just a Number: You're the only fish in the sea.
Many large travel consolidators, and even the cruise lines themselves, are guilty of this: if you call to ask a question, you will typically never speak to the same person. Even if they do answer your questions they will mostly read from lists and scripts (not robot telemarketers, but close).
However, with a specialized agency such as iCruise.com, when you call that toll-free 800-number you are not dialing a call center. You will be connected with highly-trained travel agents, and that is the beginning of both a professional and personal relationship.
By providing something called customer service (almost a lost art!) and consistently striving to exceed expectations, iCruise.com clients become like friends. The agents not only begin to anticipate their clients' vacation needs, and always suggest the best cruise line and destination for any occasion or quick getaway, but they also come to know them personally - who just had a baby, who is getting married, who has an upcoming anniversary or graduation.
3. Value and Deals: Savings at Sea.
Top-producing travel agencies have strong relationships with the cruise lines allowing them VIP access to last minute deals, senior discounts, regional promotions and group rates. Essentially, they can find cruise deals not found anywhere else.
iCruise.com also features exclusive technology and computer reservation systems enabling guests to receive the best rates.
Your personal travel agent will be informed of all the latest cruise deals and promotions, saving you a lot of time searching each cruise line individually. Save time and money.
4. Okay sure that sounds great, but how much do travel agents charge?
Zip. Yes, that's right. There is no additional cost to take advantage of a travel agent's vast resources and knowledge when they assist you with your cruise reservation. However, some products, like a cruise and land package, may require a nominal processing fee so it is always a good question to ask when you first speak with a travel agent, what fees - if any - they charge.
We know what you're thinking. This is absolutely too good to be true. But for once, that old saying just doesn't fit.
If you are in a need of a travel agent, we hope you will consider iCruise.com. Our promise is simple - to make you happy. We aim to fulfill that promise by consistently exceeding expectations; do more than you say you will do, and you will make people happy. We are committed to exceeding your expectations by providing honest, accurate information that is relevant to your cruise vacation and combining it with great prices and great service.
Call or email us, or fill out our free cruise quote form today to start planning your dream cruise getaway!
