Travel Agency Misconceptions

THERE ARE MANY MYTHS SURROUNDING TRAVEL AGENCIES. BUT TRUTH IS, TRAVEL AGENCIES HAVE MADE A STUNNING COMEBACK. We’ll debunk these myths and explain why a travel agency is the best way to get a once-in-a-lifetime vacation that hits all the right notes, and then some.

Myth

Travel agencies are passé.

Truth

THE TRAVEL AGENCY INDUSTRY IS IN THE MIDST OF A REBIRTH. The industry took a downturn after the advent of the internet and the popularity of online booking tools. But travel agencies have made a comeback, as consumers yearn for experts to help them create an experience that is custom crafted just for them. Nowadays, consumers want to spend their hard-earned money on experiences rather than on things. Each demographic is realizing the significant value of using a travel agency and the numbers point it out. And, the fastest-growing segment of users of travel agent specialists: millennials, who understand that their time is precious and see the value of spending money on expertise they may not possess.

Myth

Using a travel agency is more expensive.

Truth

IT ISN’T — IT ACTUALLY OFFERS MORE VALUE, AND COULD EVEN BE CHEAPER. We’ll explain. Travel agents are paid through commissions by suppliers, i.e., hotels, airlines, tour groups, cruises, etc. There are typically no added expenses by a travel agent to your costs. Some agencies will ask for a service fee, which covers the cost to research and build a vacation package, while others do not. At 58 Stars, we only ask for a service fee if there’s significant research in building the vacation options, and if you finalize the booking with us, we put that fee toward the cost of your vacation. So, no, it’s not more expensive to use a travel agency and, if anything, you are making out far better with time saved and discounts and amenities we can offer you that would be difficult to find on your own. And if you do find something online that’s cheaper; a travel specialist can look into it and scour the details. They have great expertise and knowledge, can get you better amenities, and will save you hours and hours of research – and you’ll have peace of mind knowing you’re getting a fantastic trip with vetted accommodations and experiences.

Myth

I can create the same itinerary myself.

Truth

OUR CONNECTIONS WITH TRAVEL VENDORS ACROSS THE GLOBE mean we can craft rare itineraries and ask special favors you’d be hard-pressed to get on your own. Sure, you’re able to call a hotel directly, but can you get the amenities that we can get you? Upgrade upon arrival, spa or food credits– all the perks, arranged by us for you.

Myth

Travel agents only sell packages that get them the best commissions.

Truth

NOT AT 58 STARS. OUR FOCUS IS ON BUILDING TRUST AND RELATIONSHIPS WITH OUR CLIENTS. We work to create a custom-crafted experience that is unique and precisely what our clients dream of. We simply wouldn’t be able to do this if we sold based on commission only.

Myth

Nothing goes wrong on a trip that I can’t handle myself.

Truth

FROM LANGUAGE BARRIERS TO CULTURAL DIFFERENCES, THERE’S QUITE A BIT THAT CAN IMPACT YOUR ABILITY TO SOLVE CHALLENGES WHEN YOU’RE TRAVELING. Our travel specialists will be there for you through your journey, from initial conversation to your return to your home market. Flight cancellation? We can help. Travel interruption? We can help. Hotel issues? We can help. It’s peace of mind every step of the way, no matter where in the world you are.

Myth

I can’t use my mileage rewards.

Truth

WE UNDERSTAND AIRLINE MILEAGE OR HOTEL REWARDS PROGRAMS, and can help you use your points, redeem your points, even get additional points. We’ll work with you to get the best deals possible.