A good Travel Agent sells more than just a travel product; they sell peace of mind.

They provide good advice based on their and their client’s experience, arrange visas and foreign exchange and supply insurance. Reservations are just a small part of the service provided.

In order to continue providing a professional and comprehensive one-stop service, Travel Agents now have to start charging service fees. This has been brought about because the commissions that have traditionally made up their income have been cut.

In the past, they were able to provide a one-stop service to clients, at no extra charge.

Even though you now pay slightly more for a Travel Agent’s Service, the extra value gained far out weigh cost. By going direct to an airline, for example, you are only able to buy their product, even if another airline offers a more convenient connection at a similar or better price. The airline cannot obtain the necessary visas, which means you have to do it yourself or pay someone to do it for you. The airline will not be able to advice you on insurance, on your destination and other information as would a Travel Agent.

Remember that the Travel Industry is a service industry. It is in the travel Agent’s best interest to provide you with the best possible service so that you are getting the best possible value for what you are paying.