Benefits of a travel agent?

[sesquius]

What are the benefits of using a travel agent? I have to admit, when I booked this cruise I made the reservation myself by going online. Yet, reading other threads I see that many use a travel agent.

 

In turn, it made me wonder what the benefits are by using a travel agent.

 

Thanks!

[paul929207]

Depending on the cruise line, there may be a substantial price difference.

Many TA's give something to customers - an OBC, bottle of wine, etc.

[uppitycats]

Some folks don't feel competent enough to book independently...

 

Some TA's offer deep discounts on some cruises, and cruise packages...

 

Sometimes flights can be complicated (like my next cruise...out of one country, into another, then another, before returning home) and I thought a TA could work that out more easily than I could..

 

Some TA's offer credits on some cruises...

[Travelcat2]

Also, TA's are your advocate. If you have a problem on a cruise, the TA will work with the cruise line to reach a settlement. When looking for a TA, I advise asking them the following questions:

 

1. What happens if I book and the price goes down? (The answer should be that your invoice will be adjusted).

 

2. Does the TA charge you any fee for cancellation (the answer should be no -- however, there may be cancellation charges imposed by the cruise line)