When Should You Use A Travel Agent?

Because online websites have made it easier to book vacations, less and less travelers are using travel agents when planning an upcoming vacation. However, just because you are able to make your own travel plans does not mean you should forego the option of using a travel agent. There are many reasons why and many times when the use of a travel agent will come in handy.

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Cruises

A travel agent can help you finalize your upcoming cruise, including helping you decide which cruise line is best for you. Plus, a travel agent will be able to help determine if you need to book accommodations before and after the cruise, as well as help with booking any shore excursions while you are at sea.

Related: Top Cruise Vacations for Families

Group Travel

Travel agents have the contacts to negotiate large-group discounts and will help organize your group's upcoming vacation itinerary. The use of a travel agent is also a good idea when planning family reunions or a corporate retreat. He or she will handle all of the planning and help manage the minor details associated with traveling with a large group.

Honeymoons

Using a travel agent when planning a honeymoon will help take some of the pressure off of you and your soon-to-be spouse. The travel agent will not only take care of all of the honeymoon details, but he or she will also help get you the best deals and work to get you some honeymoon specials, such as room upgrades and other romantic amenities.

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International Travel

Using a travel agent to help book your international travel plans will help you in so many ways, including negotiating hotel and flight rates. Travel agents spend their days building relationships with travel companies, making it possible to make deals and get the best rates for their clients.

The travel agent will also be able to help you better understand passport and visa requirements and restrictions. Your agent will help ensure you have everything you need for a great travel experience without the fear of getting stranded in a foreign country.

Related: Travel Tips: Best 21 International Travel Tips To Save Your Vacation

Theme Parks

When visiting different theme parks for vacation, a travel agent can help you book everything from accommodations to theme park tickets and transportation to dining reservations. Plus, your agent will be able to help you find unannounced discounts and other theme park secrets.

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Undecided

If you are still undecided on where you want to go on vacation, but know you want to go somewhere, a travel agent can help you pick the perfect destination. He or she will be able to talk to you about your likes and dislikes and help you come up with a unique travel itinerary and vacation destination.

Travel agents will act as your travel advocate and do their best to negotiate the best package deals for you and your travel needs. He or she will also work hard to find you add-ons and upgrades to help enhance your vacation without breaking the bank. This is all possible through the relationships that your travel agent has already established with various travel companies.

Heather Landon is a freelance writer with more than 20 years of experience. She has combined two of her passions - writing and travel - to share her experiences with others. You can read more of her articles at Examiner.com.