| Better business office
As opportunities continue to open up, people look forward to traveling again, meeting friends, or visiting distant places that they have not yet experienced.
Consumers spend billions of dollars on vacations annually, but there are many factors to consider when choosing your travel destination. Reserving hotels and resorts, planning travel routes, booking flights and rental cars are among the long list of things you need to do before setting off on a big trip.
With all of the chaos, it may be easier to plan your trip through a travel agent. Unfortunately, with the convenience of the internet, it can sometimes be difficult to find a trusted third party travel service. Familiar names can be forged, and scammers can easily trick users into believing they are dealing directly with the hotel or airline.
A reputable travel agent will take the time to learn about your travel needs, preferences, tastes, budget, and personal restrictions such as illnesses or phobias. They will also perform price comparisons to find the transportation, accommodation, attractions and services that will provide their customers with the greatest satisfaction at the best price. They will also be kept informed of new developments in the travel industry that could help their customers such as price cuts and exclusive deals on airfare and hotels.
When traveling to a new location, consumers may not understand what attractions the location offers and how to make the most of their time. An agent should be very knowledgeable about local customs in popular travel destinations and be able to provide tips to help consumers choose between options and make their trip run smoothly.
Given the ever-changing COVID-19 restrictions and changes from state to state, a travel agent should be aware of any travel restrictions or warnings that may arise and affect travel.
These tips from the Better Business Bureau are designed to help you get to a reputable travel agent and know what to look for:
• Even if the destination is far away, start locally. If possible, contact a local travel agent. Get advice from friends and business associates who hire a trusted agent and always check the business profiles on BBB.org.
• Don’t commit yourself to the first place. Do your research. Visit or call multiple agencies to find the one that best suits your needs. Different agencies can have different specialties and offer something that suits your specific needs better than others.
• Look at everything. From the appearance of the office to the willingness of the agent to listen and answer questions, the details are important in making the best decision. Your money is at stake.
• Ask about qualifications. Expertise is important. Ask about a particular agent’s professional background. For example what kind of education or training they have.
• Use additional online resources. Contact the American Society of Travel Agents to verify that any travel agent you are considering is a part of this organization.
If you discover a scam, whether you’ve lost money or not, report it at BBB.org/ScamTracker and the FTC at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Your report can help others.
Marjorie Stephens is President and CEO of the Better Business Bureau for Northern Indiana. Contact the BBB at 800-552-4631 or visit www.bbb.org.
