Q – 10.22.26 – I can see why a website like TravelTruthIs is needed. I just discovered you two weeks ago, and I am starting to understand the travel industry and how it really works. But I am still not clear about when I should or should not book with an online travel agency. They are all over the internet, and every time you go to book a hotel, I assume they are, based on volume, getting better rates. Exactly when do I use a 1-800 number because it is in my best interest?
A – The correct answer is – never!
Consumers need to understand that those who book online with an 800 travel agency or hotel booking engine are known as DBV’s – Direct Booking Victims.
Booking online is almost always a scam because none of the essential professional adviser discussions normally occur, yet the consumer is still charged the travel agent commission. We explain to our clients and our media visitors that when a consumer books directly or online, they should demand a total refund of the built-in travel agency commission of 10%-15%.
Every travel consumer is entitled to have an adviser who knows them personally, their travel background, specific health issues that could affect their full participation, and alternative programs that might meet their needs and goals in a better way.
Every consumer is entitled to have a knowledgeable adviser discuss insurance options, something extremely rare online. Every consumer should depend on their adviser to offer truly personalized, caring, fact-based advice. If the consumer is not getting any of this online, they should always receive a full refund of the entire commission.
Our industry has failed to competently explain why booking online is never in the consumer’s best interests. And yes, of course, professionals know that no major supplier would ever give an online call center in Mumbai or Manila better pricing than a dedicated professional adviser who always has the client’s best interests in mind.
We could offer evidence of the percentage of online booking sites that are foreign-based scams whose principal goal is to secure your credit card and address information. And they will also know when you are away from home. Here is a hint: If the online “agent” sitting in a cubicle in India doesn’t ask you about your health, present insurance options, or offer hotel, tour, or cruise options with the pros and cons of each, you are likely being set up to have your credit card information compromised.
Oh -one more point that the consumer media often misses: Do you really suppose that the top management of hotels, cruises, and tours really wants their potential guests dealing with some commission-based call center “agent” who has likely never experienced their product or even left their country of residence?
