What's the Value of a Travel Agent?

Let's be honest — you can book a flight and a hotel room yourself. You've done it before, and you'll probably do it again. So why would you work with a travel agent?

The short answer: it depends on the trip. A quick weekend getaway to a city you know well? You probably don't need me. But a honeymoon in Southeast Asia, a multi-generational family trip to Europe, or a corporate offsite for 30 people? That's where the math starts to change.

The value of a travel agent isn't just convenience — though that's part of it. It's access. Through my partnerships with networks like Virtuoso, Aman, and Four Seasons Preferred, I can unlock perks that simply aren't available when you book directly: complimentary upgrades, resort credits, early check-in, late checkout, and VIP treatment that makes a real difference in your experience.

Here's the part most people don't realize: these perks don't cost you more. You're paying the same rate you'd find online — sometimes less — but getting significantly more. That's because hotels want to reward agents who consistently send them great guests.

But honestly? The biggest value I provide isn't the perks. It's the honesty. If a hotel isn't worth the price, I'll tell you. If there's a better option that fits your budget, I'll find it. I don't work on commission from specific brands — I work for you.

The travel agent industry has changed. The old model of booking flights for a fee is mostly gone. What's replaced it is something better: advisors who genuinely know their stuff, who've stayed at the properties they recommend, and who are invested in making your trip exceptional.

So when does it make sense to use an agent? When the trip matters. When you want someone in your corner who picks up the phone, solves problems before you know about them, and makes sure every detail is dialed in. That's what I do.