In Reply to: agents posted by Ezza on Wednesday, 30. March 2005 at 12:01 Bali Time:
When you book a Holiday Package through a Travel Agent, it is handled through a Wholesaler from whom the Agent receives a Commission.
When we sell an "Airfare Only" we usually have access to a "Nett Fare" which is available to ALL agents; the price we charge depends on what margin we require (up to published fare level/s).
What really upsets us - as I am sure it does with any professional Travel Agency - is the client who has NO idea about what they want - come into the office and spend often up to 1 Hour seeking advice and a "written quote". They then proceed to take this quote to other agencies in an effort to get a "better price". Realistically, if an agency doesn't have to put any effort into it, they will possibly come back with a lower price.
What clients need to appreciate is that if they want professional advice and service then they should seek this from a Travel Agent who is not only qualified but who can offer advice based on their personal knowledge and experiences. There is no such thing as a "free lunch" - nor can someone expect "Silver Service at 'Counter-Lunch' prices"!!
If you have a Travel Agent with whom you are satisfied in their service levels and value their professional expertise, then stay with them and show your support and respect for what they offer. First question you should ask is "If I have a problem at 2 a.m. on a Sunday in Moscow, will I be able to contact you to discuss this?" If the agency is 100% professional, then they will be able to answer this in the affirmative!
How would you feel being "stranded in Moscow (or Bali for that matter) in desperate need of advice and support - but totally alone because you had "saved" a few Dollars on your holiday?