If you are wondering about the need to hire travel agents, you should know that there are basically three situations in which you should rely upon a reputed agent -
* If you are an inexperienced traveler or travelling for the first time.
* Do not have the time to make arrangements for the trip. If you are also not eager to take up all the hassles of making the required reservations and bookings, you can rely upon travel agents.
* If you are travelling with a large group of friends and relatives. Such bulk arrangements are best left to the agents who are experienced in dealing with arrangements for a trip.
But, with so many travel agencies claiming to provide the best service, you surely need to be very careful when it comes to planning and arranging for a trip. The following points would help you to select the best travel agents who will be able to arrange a memorable and fun-filled trip for you:
* Are you selecting a tour company that is recommended by your friend? While recommendations are appreciated, you should also remember that travelling preferences and requirements are different for different people. You should therefore shop around for tour companies. These days almost all reputed tour companies have their websites. Visit the websites and read customer reviews and testimonials to learn about the reputation of each company.
* Ask for quotes from more than two travel agents. Compare the prices and select the deal that suits your budget and requirements. Talk with the agents about the luxuries you are expecting and the number of persons travelling. These days, you can ask for quotes online. So, you do not have to travel much to gather those.
* Choose a tour company that offers you discounts and rebates on the tour package you are availing. If you are travelling in a group, you might get attractive offers. You should negotiate well with the agents and fix up a profitable deal.
* Check out if the company is offering off-season rebates. However, be cautious that you are getting the best services in lieu of money spent. If you have even a slightest doubt about the reputation of the company it is better to look for other options.