Travel Counsellors - good or bad?

peachyprice

I can't really understand why anyone would pay a 'travel counsellor' to do something they can do themselves for free, seems like money for old rope to me.

Although I don't like anyone else being in control of my holiday, the only way you'll ever guarantee getting 100% what you want is to do it yourself.

jtr2803

peachyprice wrote: »

I can't really understand why anyone would pay a 'travel counsellor' to do something they can do themselves for free, seems like money for old rope to me.

Although I don't like anyone else being in control of my holiday, the only way you'll ever guarantee getting 100% what you want is to do it yourself.

But there are certain destinations that work out cheaper due to agents bulk buying seats/rooms.

I don't think any of my most recent trips would have been any cheaper doing it myself!

photome

jtr2803 wrote: »

But there are certain destinations that work out cheaper due to agents bulk buying seats/rooms.

I don't think any of my most recent trips would have been any cheaper doing it myself!

Is that a fact or did you not do any homework.....just asking

stressed_mummy

jtr2803 wrote: »

But there are certain destinations that work out cheaper due to agents bulk buying seats/rooms.

I don't think any of my most recent trips would have been any cheaper doing it myself!

totally agree if you are looking at budget airlines and cheap accommodation then its not worth it for a special trip or long haul it will be worth it as it normally doesn't cost any more and you are covered under ABTA

Dark_Star

We have used them is the past (one specific agent that I'd used for business travel) & she was very helpful. They seem to have more time than a high street agent.

However if you want far flung interesting destinations with experienced staff try Trailfinders. They are online & also have some high street presence - depends where you live - I know they are in London. All their staff have travelled & will know the area they deal with.

I remember a friend trying to book a trip to Vietnam via a standard high street agent & was asked "Is that near Spain?". :rotfl:I thought my geography was bad until then!

photome

stressed_mummy wrote: »

totally agree if you are looking at budget airlines and cheap accommodation then its not worth it for a special trip or long haul it will be worth it as it normally doesn't cost any more and you are covered under ABTA

Can i ask you the same question, have you ever priced a long haul trip up both ways or are you just assuming it is not cheaper.

I know my expereince is limited as i go to Vegas most years but it is almost always cheaper to go DIY

peachyprice

jtr2803 wrote: »

But there are certain destinations that work out cheaper due to agents bulk buying seats/rooms.

I don't think any of my most recent trips would have been any cheaper doing it myself!

It's not just about the money though, it's about doing it the way you want, to where you want and for how long you want.

The destinations that agents tend bulk buy aren't really the kinds of places we would go, infact are most likely to be the places we give a wide berth.

peachyprice

stressed_mummy wrote: »

totally agree if you are looking at budget airlines and cheap accommodation then its not worth it for a special trip or long haul it will be worth it as it normally doesn't cost any more and you are covered under ABTA

We've always been able to beat packages on long haul and luxury holidays. Our holiday to Italy this year would have cost more than double for exactly the same if we'd have gone through an agent, we were getting quotes of £3k but DIY for £1.2, that's a huge saving. We've saved similar amounts for holidays is Florida, Crete, Dubai etc, all using 'proper' airlines and quality accomodation.

I guess it depends on how much effort you're willing to put in and how much money you're determined to save.

euroBoy

I have never heard of any of my friends/family book through Travel Counsellors. I dont think they are a member of ABTA either.

Qwerty_travel

euroBoy wrote: »

I have never heard of any of my friends/family book through Travel Counsellors. I dont think they are a member of ABTA either.

They are an amazing company with agents who really care about providing the best holiday for their clients.


They are Atol bonded and have their own unique Trust which guarantees 100% financial protection.


The company has superb customer care and are highly regarded within the industry.


Take a look at their website and see for yourself.