Little-Known Ways They Add Big Value
You might think travel agents are just for complicated honeymoons or big family safaris — and sure, they love those. But the truth is, you’re probably missing out on a world of perks, upgrades, and behind-the-scenes magic if you’re not looping your travel advisor in on everything from that one-off hotel night to your next group adventure.
Here are a few of the best-kept secrets (until now) about how working with a great travel agent makes your trip smoother, more special, and sometimes even cheaper.
Did You Know…
…you should never book a cruise without your travel advisor?
- When you book through a travel advisor, you often get access to exclusive perks like onboard credits, room upgrades, private shore excursions, and special events — all at the same price you see online.
- Many advisors have access to Distinctive Voyages benefits, which include hosted experiences, cocktail receptions, and VIP extras.
- And if there are price drops or promotions later, your advisor can help adjust your booking.
…they can book that luxury hotel night for you (and make it better)?
- Even if you only need one night in a top-tier hotel, a travel advisor can often access SELECT Hotels & Resorts, CURATED Hotels & Resorts, or other preferred partner perks.
- Think: upgrades on arrival, daily breakfast, $100 property credits, early check-in/late checkout, and welcome gifts.
- No loyalty program required. You get VIP treatment simply by booking through your advisor.
…you can (and should!) book your group tour or luxury operator trip through them?
- Booking that Abercrombie & Kent, Backroads, Natural Habitat Adventures, or Butterfield & Robinson trip? Let your advisor handle it.
- The price is the same or less — but they can often add pre- and post-trip enhancements, private transfers, or help with upgrades.
- Plus, you have an advocate before, during, and after the trip. You don’t have to go it alone.
…you can loop them in on “just flights” or insurance questions, too?
- Even if you booked a trip with miles or points, an advisor can still offer guidance on flight schedules, layovers, insurance, visas, and airport VIP services.
- They’ll tell you what insurance covers what (and why it’s still worth it), especially for luxury or once-in-a-lifetime trips.
…they can help when things go sideways?
- Flight delay? Illness abroad? Lost luggage? Booking with a travel advisor means you have a real human to contact — not just a chatbot.
- Plus, they help connect you to in-country partners, travel insurance concierge teams, and VIP support when time matters most.
Bottom Line?
Using a travel advisor doesn’t just elevate the big-ticket trips. It adds peace of mind, perks, and a real partner to the entire travel process.!
