Professional travel agents got a big boost in Inc. magazine with a feature written by Owen Wild, director of marketing for Amadeus North America. Wild says travel agents are business travelers' secret weapon when comes to discounts and finding best deals in a recession.
“In a tough economy, both business and leisure travelers have an alternative to Internet travel sites for deals on airfares and vacation packages," Wild writes. "Travelers looking for ways to deal with the recent fuel price-driven spike in travel costs need to take a second look at their local travel agency."
“Surprised? You shouldn't be. Your travel agent is a secret weapon for finding you the best travel deals. Why? Because travel agents have exclusive access to technology, techniques, and relationships that will get you the biggest bang for your buck. Of course, keep your corporate travel policy in mind. But if your company permits it, a travel agent can help you save real money on business trips," he said.
“From the technology perspective, agents are ahead of the power curve vs. travel websites, because travel websites don't give you access to the specialized computer systems that agents routinely have on their desktops. In fact, whether it's an all-inclusive stay in the Caribbean or a short-drive vacation limited to a single tank of gas, travel agents are an invaluable resource for digging up deals even when the economy is booming.”
“There are good reasons for this, including the fact that travel agents have the know-how that only comes when you travel yourself, as most agents do,” Wild said, offering Inc. readers eight reasons why travel agents expertise is valuable for business or leisure travelers. Visit www.inc.com.