A real interaction between a "client" and a travel agent
We've all been there; trying to book a vacation and something just doesn't seem to add up. Recently I was contacted by someone in this exact situation who never thought they needed a travel agent.
Luckily for them, that gut feeling told them that something wasn't quite right with their online booking they were working on.
Here is our conversation and why it always makes sense to reach out to a travel professional before proceeding with any booking however "simple" it may seem.
This conversation took place via our Facebook page and messenger
Client: "My husband and I are looking at taking our 2 boys to England and we can't figure out what this added charge is when we try to book. Can you help us? We don't really want to pay $6800"
Me: "I would be happy to help you with this. Can you share a screenshot of what you're concerned about?"
Client shares screenshot
Me: "It looks like the return flight is with a different airline and there are some additional fees related to that flight. Would you like me to look at some flight options for you?"
Client: "Could you please?"
I search for flights
Me: "I have found you direct flights with Air Canada that would be $5040 roundtrip for the four of you. Checked bags will be an additional charge but even with the baggage fees it will be significantly less than the price you saw."
Client: "Oh wow!! That's a lot less. Thank you so much for looking."
Me: "Sometimes it's not so much where you search but how you search for it. We have access to hundreds of flights where you may only see a fraction of them. We also know what you actually need versus what the online search wants you to buy."
Client: "How do I book those flights?"
Me: "I can book them for you today and I don't charge any extra fees; I will need all the passenger's names EXACTLY as they appear on their passports and a few other details. Are you available for a quick phone call?"
Client: "Absolutely! We are so excited for this trip and even moreso now that it is going to cost less than we thought."
I call the client and discuss everything needed for their trip including insurance, entry requirements, etc.
These new clients never thought they needed a travel agent. Now they won't plan their travel without one. Travel agents have access to promotions and booking tools that consumers don't and we have the training and experiences to plan and guide you in the right direction.
While we always strive to save our clients money, we cannot guarantee that your savings will be as substantial as those in this instance.
Comments