is it better to use a local travel agency or the online travel options such as Travelocity etc...?

Answer 1

I have to agree with Tri's answer. I've never used a travel agent and don't plan to. With the invention of the Internet, I have been able to plan where I'd like to vacation, purchase my tickets, and research the area I'm traveling to. Also, there are hundreds of great travel guides out there. I also find that being my own travel agent works out better for me, because I'm not the traditional tourist. I would rather explore at my own pace and view what I'm interested in instead of being part of a tour. A travel agent is more likely to book a vacation with guided tours and plenty of extra charges I can do without.

Answer 2

If you use the local travel agency they will do everything for you. Sure it costs a little extra but can be worth it if there is a lot to arrange.

I wouldn't use places like Travelcity as they can still be expensive, though not as much as a travel agency sometimes.

If you have the time, both before the trip and personnally, I would use the websites for research then book directly with the company you want to use. Many hotels have their own websites you can use. I booked my OS trip independently through various websites and saved a lot of money. I still went to the travel agancy to get accom. mags then arranged flights, accom, car hire etc. on the web.

the only draw back to this is that you have to pay for flights and car hire up front so if you are booking well in advance that might be a draw back. the hotels only take a one night deposit.

At least with a travel agency they only take a deposit then the balance 1 month out.

Good luck with your trip.

Answer 3

You save more money by cutting out the middleman.

Travel agents supposedly can get you a deal because they are hooked up to the airlines and discounted airfares. As if they'll help you out. They're in it to make money. How hard is it to book your own flight with a click of a mouse nowadays? Plus if you do your own homework as to where you want to go, you'll know full well what you're getting yourself into.

I trusted a travel agent to schedule my flight itenirary from my city to a European destination through London. Turns out that she didn't know the difference between Gatwick airport and Heathrow.....which are two hours away from each other. I ended up missing my flight and had to wait around for the next flight.

See, if I planned my own trip, I wouldn't have had that situation. Not all travel agents have travelled the world and know where to eat and where to stay. All they do is book flights for us and charge us for it. I'd rather keep my hard earned money and buy some toys or souvenirs while at the travel destination.

Yayyyy to online booking! :)