Gail Rosenblum, a writer for Minneapolis’s Star Tribune recently gushed about a trip she took to Costa Rica last summer with her family. As a “self-professed travel snob,” she had long been a believer in DIY bookings. With the happiness of four teenagers on the line, she took a friend’s advice and contacted a travel agent.

The result?

A vacation that everyone loved, including Rosenblum. When it comes to travel, she is a changed woman.

More and more people are realizing the worth of having an actual person in their corner when it comes to trip planning.

In 2014, 18 percent of American travelers used an agent, a 50 percent increase from the previous year.

Bookings made through travel agencies now account for a third of the $284 billion U.S. market. Millennials are one of the driving forces behind the increase, with 28 percent of Americans under 33 using travel agents in 2013.

What is causing travelers to choose a travel agent over “travel vending machines” like Expedia and Priceline?

Rosenblum cites the need for human interaction as one factor: in a far-off location, people want a friendly face greeting them at the airport, and escorting them to their hotel. They also want to know they can reach their agent directly, in case something should go wrong.

Travelers are also becoming overwhelmed by the mountains of information they have to filter through on booking sites, especially for longer, more complex vacations. Which hotel rooms offer the best views? Which resort offers the most activities for teens? How will we get from point A to point B?

Working with an experienced, knowledgeable travel agent eliminates the guesswork and saves people time. Even Rosenblum, a veteran DIY planner, felt that she “got more than our money’s worth” by consulting with a travel agent. The special deals, added amenities, and hassle-free trip made for a memorable vacation for her whole family.

The demand for KHM Travel Agents is growing, and will continue to grow as more vacationers like Rosenblum recognize their value over online booking options.

If you would like to learn more about starting an exciting career as an independent travel agent, fill out the form on the right or call 1-888-611-1220 to receive our free start-up packet.

Source: Star Tribune