This is a question that we hear all the time and the answer is “NO”

Travel agents are paid directly from the cruise line, hotel and or resorts … but some travel agencies do charge a booking fee as do the OTA’s (online travel websites) or a service fee on top of the actual trip cost. So, before you book a trip ask the question … Do you charge a booking fee?

We often hear I saw that vacation online and it was almost $700 cheaper than what you quoted me. That is just the way it appears …. most if not all of the online websites show a lead in price to make you think that you are getting a great deal. However, when you get to the end and get ready to checkout you see the price jumped because they add in their service fee. It still might appear to be a lower price … but that is because most of them do not include the taxes and resort fees (which we always include in our price) which means that when you check in or check out from your vacation you will be charged for those items and you will find those charges on your credit card that you left on file with the resort or cruise line.

The main reason you should consider using a travel agent is that they have first hand experience and have probably been to the resort or on the cruise that you are asking about. They also know what deals are available and how to get you a variety of perks. In addition they are always developing relationships with the resorts and cruise lines and know who to call if there is an issue.

Last but not least … if something goes wrong with a booking that you made online who are you going to call? Yes they have an 800# but you better be prepared to wait on hold for a very long time and in most cases they can’t solve the problem especially if your reservation gets bumped because the resort was overbooked.

Real Travel Agents … book your travel in realtime and know exactly what is available and when you work with them and their certified tour operators you have a “no walk gaurantee” which means that even if the hotel is oversold somebody else is getting bumped but it is not going to be you !

Booking on line your just a credit card number but when you book with a travel agent you are a real person and you get the personalized attention and service that you deserve.

The JBL Travel Group is a certified travel agency that does not charge a booking fee and we are always here for you 24 Hours A Day. If you have any questions you can call us at 732-831-5200 and we will be more than happy to help you plan your next vacation.