By: Cesar Cruz Jr.
With a few clicks of a computer keyboard, one can easily research online on a particular destination and book directly a preferred mode of transportation and an accommodation as well. In this regard, is a travel agency still relevant?
While one could go for Do-It-Yourself Travel, there is always the convenient option of having professional help. The main advantage of a travel agency lies in its expertise to simplify the planning process with regards to the transportation and accommodation requirements of a traveler. The well-researched and experience-based recommendations they give make them a credible authority on the subject.
In the end, a travel agency is able to hold its ground with the unique benefits it provides its clients. A local travel agency that has withstood the economic climate violently shaken by the health pandemic is Travel Time Marketing Services, a member of NAITAS (National Association of Independent Travel Agencies) which is a major national tourism association in the Philippines. Its co-founder Pia Borromeo shed light on practical questions that may be on the tip of the tongues of travelers.
What services do you offer?
We offer domestic & international tour packages, visa assistance, ticketing, travel insurance, passport, transport rental, and MICE (meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions).
Can you provide assistance while I am at my destination?
Yes, we can. We have trusted partner suppliers locally and internationally. We have been working with them for years.
How can I reach you in case of emergency?
We use a Facebook Page, my personal FB page, Viber, mobile and landline numbers. We make sure that we always put our emergency numbers on the service voucher.
What travel destinations do you recommend this time of year?
Japan, Korea, Indonesia, Vietnam, Singapore, Hongkong, and Taiwan. I have already been to these places. I personally know the tour operators there.
How can I save money by booking with you?
We save you time and money with our expertise, and can even help you to get free amenities. We also offer payment plans that allow you to pay for your trip.
Is a package tour cheaper than creating my own vacation?
Yes, because we are a wholesaler. We specialize in organizing tours and selling them cheap to our clients.
Is there a price match guarantee when the cost of airline fee or hotel drops after I have confirmed my trip with you?
None on tour package. There is no price match guarantee. We can guarantee you the best rate offer.
What is your cancellation policy?
It always depends on the airlines class, hotel policy, transport policy, and acts of God. We follow a general policy. We usually do rebooking. On tour packages, a downpayment is non -refundable.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, it is highly recommended. A travel insurance policy can give you financial protection in case you need to cancel the trip and cover your medical bills if you have a medical emergency abroad.
What is the importance of being a part of NAITAS (National Association of Independent Travel Agencies)?
We support each other and it’s more credible if you’re part of an organization. You get access to all of those valuable industry insights and you can continue crafting all of those fabulous itineraries that your customers know and love you for.
What advice could you give someone entering the travel and tours industry?
Be passionate, kind, hardworking, learn to love industry colleagues and clients. Give good service.
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