The Benefits of Using a Travel Agent

By Greg Seiter

Planning a trip can be frustrating and time consuming, especially for those attempting to do so on their own. Sure, the Internet has opened the door for novice vacation planners to almost instantly access a seemingly endless list of travel-related companies and pages where information can be found and plans solidified however, that benefit can also be a hindrance. With so many choices, how do you know where to begin and even more importantly, how do you know who you can trust?

Today, more so than ever before, it’s imperative that potential trip takers utilize the skills and services offered by experienced travel agents, like those found in AAA Hoosier Motor Club branch offices and through the club’s Web site http://www.AAA.com.

AAA Travel Agency, Indiana’s largest travel agency, boasts highly-trained agents who are experts at understanding and deciphering the myriad of travel-related information and codes used in today’s industry. With nearly 110 years of travel experience, AAA is a household name that people are familiar with and trust.

AAA travel agents provide professional advice and personalized service. They’re accessible via the Internet, by telephone and in person at your nearest Hoosier Motor Club service center.

Strong preferred vendor partnerships and the latest in computer-based reservations technology provide these individuals with access to current travel information and outstanding deals that are sometimes hard to find. In fact, the bottom line is that AAA travel agents, who work for their clients rather than for a travel supplier, are there to save vacationers as much time and money as possible.

Speaking of saving money, it’s important to note that AAA Travel Agents DO NOT charge a vacation planning fee to anyone they assist; that includes non-AAA members. Of course, members do enjoy exclusive savings opportunities and value-added amenities with major cruise and tour companies. For example, AAA members save $20 in service fees when they book an airline ticket at a Hoosier Motor Club office. Also, passport photos are only $10 plus tax for members compared to $20 plus tax for non-members. And even those fees are waived if someone books a cruise or tour package. Here’s another thing to consider. Did you know that when you purchase your scheduled airline, train, bus or cruise tickets at a local AAA Travel Agency you are automatically covered with $100,000 of no-cost travel accident insurance? Of course, nobody wants to think about a potential accident during the travel-planning stage but it’s comforting to know this benefit applies to any travel-related accident that might occur during your trip and is payable to your next of kin or listed beneficiary. You don’t even need to fill out any paperwork.

Understandably, AAA Hoosier Motor Club sincerely enjoys helping people with their travel plans and to that extent, the club even rewards repeat customers. When you book your inclusive tour, cruise or package through AAA Travel Agency, the club rewards you with gifts for being a frequent traveler. So in other words, let us help you take frequent vacations and in-turn, you’ll be eligible for great gifts like digital cameras, camcorders, luggage, gift cards and much more.

In today’s marketplace, those who elect to secure their own travel plans are really taking a dangerous chance. For example, if you’ve booked your vacation independently through non-reputable sources on the Internet, who are you going to call if you run into problems along the way? What happens if the individual or company you’ve been working with suddenly refuses to respond to your email requests?

By using a AAA travel agent, you have peace of mind in knowing that your agent is always going to be there and accessible to you throughout your trip; by phone, email and even at our brick and mortar stores in order to help make last-minute changes and resolve challenges, should the need arise. We won’t ever hide from your problems if you book through us and remember; our services are fee-free!

Quite simply, AAA travel agents are here to help make vacation dreams come true for everybody!