[Heartnsoul]

Originally Posted by swrinfla

As someone who spent nearly 20 years as a travel agent (admittedly now more than 10 years ago), I feel that I must justify a travel agent's existence.

The good ones (those who've been around several years) know not only how to find the best deals with the cruise line, but also what to tell you about the cruise line, the ports you might call at, how to best get from your home to the ship; indeed, innumerable things you might either not know or might foul up booking yourself!

Today, I usually do my own research on line (after 23 cruises, I know pretty well what I want), but almost always I assign the booking to a gal with whom I worked years ago. I know that she'll get me the best deal. I know that she knows what I'll accept and what I won't.

And, I know that I can count on her to spend part of her commission on wines for me to enjoy aboard!

My bottom line advice: Do Not Assume that what you can find on line will necessarily be the best for you. A travel agent can offer you security, good advice, sound hints and a peace of mind!

And, except in very exceptional cases, the monies they make from your booking do not come from you, but rather from the cruise line, tour operator, or whomever they're dealing with.

SWR

The travel agent I used today didn't offer me advice. she didn't even give me a brochure?? Not sure I felt like she wanted to help.