There are so many travel options available online today that it can be overwhelming for many consumers to find the best deal. As some quickly learn, the lowest price doesn't always equal the best choice for many. Take the recent initiative by some airlines to allocate preferential seats within their main cabin to preferred customers only -or- at a higher rate to others. I recently booked a seat on a major airline for the lowest price available, only to find my seat selection options were limited to middle seats in the rear of the airplane. I learned that had I purchased a slightly higher fare, I would have access to preferred seating in a better location on the aircraft. This was an example of when finding a professional travel agent would have been a good first step in planning my trip.
Travel agents are a great resource and help their customers research the different options and find the best deal possible based on their specific needs. And in today's online world, travel agent software plays an important role in just how much help a travel agent can provide. The right travel agent would understand the difference between the two airfares and know the customer's seating requirements or preference. Today's travel agent software would allow agent to enter a passenger's specific frequent flier number, select a seat and even reserve a special meal for them. Arranging for special assistance such as a wheelchair or other special services can be requested quickly and easily online in some cases.
Consumers who use a travel agent often get the best deals and VIP treatment during their entire journey. Travel Agents are experts in the industry and many have negotiated special deals and amenities for their clients. Some use travel booking solutions that enable them to launch their own online solution and allow their customers to research and book travel when and where they want while still enjoying the benefits of using their travel agent.
It's no secret that people today are attached to their mobile devices and in many cases, this is the first place many go when they are looking for information or perhaps to make a purchase. Researching and shopping for travel is no different, so today's travel agent software should be built using mobile ready technology so it is easily accessible via just about any type of device.
Advances in technology now allow for travel booking solutions to integrate a vast amount information as well as media files & rich content such as photos and videos. Some hotel booking engine Users can view pictures of a particular hotel property, including sample guest rooms and public areas. While cruise booking engines include itinerary maps showing a specific cruise ship's itinerary with ports of call, information about ship activities and even videos to help provide the User a better idea of what to expect onboard.
Choosing travel agent software with the right combination of options to serve your customers better can be a critical decision. Finding a technology partner that will help you reach today's mobile consumer with the content they are looking for can be just as important.
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