An agent might just be your “bang-for-the-buck” way to save time.
Photo: Wendy HungTo many of you, hiring a travel agent might seem like an old-school idea, especially when the internet can offer so much information and access. But if you’re looking for the best room with an amazing rate plus perks, then hiring a travel agent may be the best hotel booking hack.
Here’s why.
Agents have local connections we simply don’t have. They have built these relationships from years of experiences by working in the industry. I remember going to Kenya years ago. Since the trip was booked in Taiwan, my family and I opted to hire a travel agent. She arranged a driver who showed us secret hiding spots in safaris that other tourists didn’t have access to. For days, we were able to observe animals without the disturbance of numerous jeeps surrounding the same areas.
The agent was also able to help us book hotels that were authentic, offering unique staycation experiences and free continental breakfasts. Since the vacation spanned over 1.5 weeks in various safaris, several hotels needed to be booked simultaneously. The agent not only scored beautiful properties for us, but we also had upgrades even before checking in.
If you’re not a big fan of reading through endless pages of reviews, hiring an agent will save hours of time. An agent is required to know your wants and don’t-wants then do his/her best to ensure your needs are met. Typically, agents partner with certain hotel companies with personal access. Whether you want to stay at an eco-lodge or a room with a view; an agent has the ability to accommodate preferences without too much hassle.
Photo: Wendy HungYears ago, my family and I organized a trip to Dubai with the help of another travel agent. Despite Burj al Arab was fully booked for months, our agent swiftly scored two suites during the dates we requested. In addition, she helped us find a local guide at half the price of our budget.
Since agents cost extra cash, if you’re a backpacker or a budget traveler, this might not be an ideal option. But if you’re planning a destination where you’ll be staying in different hotels at various cities over a span of time, hiring an agent will certainly get the job done while saving you time and scoring deals you may never be aware of.
