In the modern age, global travel is a reality thanks to open borders in most countries. Additionally, digital technology makes it easy to plan a vacation to anywhere in the world. However, the internet can’t be used as the only resource for making vacation plans. Travel agencies are still relevant in the modern era of GPS and smartphones. People can benefit from good old fashioned services offered by a travel agent. Instead of using the world wide web for planning, people could actually talk to a real person about vacation options.

Customers have the convenience of walking into a travel agency and speaking with an agent in a matter of minutes. The budget is the first topic that is usually discussed when planning a trip anywhere in the world. Sometimes, customers don’t have an exact destination set in mind but they have a general idea about the type of trip they’d like. Therefore, a travel agent can provide some great suggestions for going on particular trips. For example, an engaged couple may ask a travel agent about affordable and convenient trips for a honeymoon. U.S. couples could get great deals on trips to Costa Rica because these destinations are inexpensive and they offer great value.

Travel agencies often have direct partnerships with major airlines, hotels, car rental companies and cruise lines. Customers can receive special promotions that may be offered only through official travel agents. The internet doesn’t always have all of the latest deals on travel plans. A travel agent may present multiple brochures to customers that are seeking travel packages at discount rates. During specific seasons, some destinations may be very affordable. For example, winter time tourism to New York City is less expensive compared to visiting the “Big Apple” in the summer. A Wilmington travel agent is an example of a professional representative that could help North Carolina residents plan their dream vacation.

Travel insurance is another package that is usually sold at travel agencies. Customers are educated about all of the risks associated with traveling to certain destinations and by specific methods of transport. For example, travel insurance may not be necessary for regional trips by car. However, long distance train rides and flights should be secured by travel insurance. Travel agencies also educate customers about various precautions when going to foreign countries that may have hostile attitudes and settings towards United States citizens.