Travel Weekly Blog

Today's advice from MSN Money - don't use a travel agent to buy a holiday. And why? I quote from Sarah Modlock's article:

"Avoid the travel agent altogether and get online to research, compare and book at a time to suit you.

There are also several excellent hotel and holiday review sites which can provide ideas and recommendations and reveal facts and tips about destination that you won't find in a brochure.

You can then contact hotels direct and negotiate on price."

The main thrust of the article is that parents pay more for holidays in school holidays rather than term time. No surprises there then - peak demand because schools are off and (in the summer) the best weather equals higher prices.

That's the way the market works. But let's be clear - it has never been cheaper to buy a holiday and prices are driving travel agencies out of business. Whatever time of the year you choose to holiday you will be able to get an awful lot for your money.

As Darren on Travel Rants rightly points out, Sarah Modlock's is a one-sided article which omits to tell consumers that their direct booked holiday might not be bonded, which could be problematic if the holiday goes belly up and you have children with you.

And what of the expertise a travel agent can provide? Product knowledge, recommendation, add-ons, bonding, competitive prices, peace of mind and a real person to handle the financial transaction.

Clearly, the web has a role to play in researching a holiday, but try visiting a good travel agent. You won't be disappointed.

UPDATE

A travel agent has posted a defence on the forum related to the MSN article. A quick precis:

• Hotels and airlines are putting their prices up, not agents
• Is it worth the risk of it all going wrong with no professional to look after you for the sake of a few quid?
• If small independent agents close, the big four (two) will have a monopoly and put their prices up even more
• Agents do not control taxes. Do you blame the garage for the increase in fuel?

Martin Couzins, online editor