There are a multitude of reasons why it is a good idea to speak to a travel agent before you head off on your next adventure - and now's the perfect time to get started.
Here we'll explain just why having a professional opinion can make all the difference when you are gearing up for a getaway.
The real-life experience and insider knowledge
Most travel agents have travelled extensively themselves, so they've got plenty of wisdom to share with you. At your local branch there will likely be an agent already highly familiar with the part of the world you want to visit, having been there themselves and planned countless others' holidays to the destination.
There's no substitute for that first-hand knowledge and experience. Your travel agent will be able to give you a plethora of tips and insider advice, not to mention will know how to secure all the best deals for the region, from flights to tours and hotels.
This can be particularly useful if you are heading abroad to a country where you are unfamiliar with the language, culture or nation as a whole. They're familiar with the best times to book and how the on- and off-season periods operate for each destination.
In addition to this, travel agents have handy knowledge about those little things such as taking extra baggage or booking an airport transfer. They can easily find the answer for any questions you have.
Travel agents are also able to manage all your bookings, which can make the process a lot less stressful. Don't worry about trying to book those complex train routes across Europe in a foreign language - your travel agent will be able to arrange this for you!
As travel agents have great networks and connections in the industry, they know how to find great deals and special offers.
A helping hand back home
There's always the possibility that, while you're travelling, something won't go quite to plan and you will need the assistance of somebody else.
Whether it's rebooking a missed flight or extending your holiday, having a travel agent back home to help you navigate any changes in your journey can be a great blessing.
Make sure you carry their email address and phone number with you to your destination in case something works out differently to how you expected.
If you have no idea where you want to go
If you are open to a number of holiday destinations, your travel agent will be able to help you sum up the options and narrow down the choices.
They will be able to point out the highlights of each region and ascertain somewhere that's likely to be most suitable for you and your needs.
Whether you're travelling as a family, with a partner or group of friends or completely solo, your travel agent will be able to give you a strong foundation of advice.
It's completely free
One of the best things about a travel agent? Their service is completely free! That means you don't have to worry about yet another travel cost on top of all the rest.
You can, however, expect quality and professional service focused on providing you with an amazing and memorable holiday, no matter where in the world you are headed.
For all these reasons, plus many more, it's a great idea to get in touch with a travel agent before you start booking a journey away. From years of experience and wisdom to practical industry connections, travel agents can offer you a whole new world of travel ideas and fantastic deals.