The Benefits of Booking Long-Haul International Travel Offline
Travelling to distant corners of the world can be an exciting adventure, but the process of booking long-haul international travel can sometimes feel overwhelming. With the surge of online booking platforms, it’s easy to forget the traditional method of booking travel offline.
What is the Difference Between Online and Offline?
The travel industry offers various ways to plan and book trips, and understanding the differences between an online travel agency (OTA) and an offline travel agency is crucial in making informed decisions.
Online: An online travel agent is a web-based platform that allows users to book travel services over the internet, such as Booking.com, Expedia and TripAdvisor.
Offline: An offline travel agent is a brick-and-mortar business where clients can visit in person or contact by phone to book travel-related services like Chapman & Carter and other local travel agencies and management companies.
The Benefits of Booking Long-Haul International Travel Offline
Now that we have a better idea of what an offline travel agency does, let’s take a look at the benefits of booking long-haul international travel offline:
Personalised Service
As we move more and more towards a digital-first approach, booking offline provides a personal touch that is often missing from digital interactions. When you book offline, you can speak directly with travel agents who provide tailored advice and recommendations and are experts in their field. These professionals have first-hand knowledge and experience with various destinations and airlines, which is invaluable. Being able to meet in person to book travel and plan your travel programme means we can offer personalised recommendations based on your preferences, such as the best time to travel, the most comfortable airlines, etc. Not forgetting, it’s easier for us to cater to the traveller’s needs and really understand what they are looking for.
Access to Exclusive Deals
Through established relationships and exclusive partnerships with airlines, hotels, and tour operators, travel agents often have access to special rates, packages, and discounts unavailable online. These can include reduced airfares, hotel room upgrades, complimentary services, and bundled deals that offer better value for money. This access to unique offers and insider deals ensures that you get the most out of your travel budget while enjoying a more enriched and personalised experience.
Support and Assistance
It’s no secret that travel plans can change unexpectedly due to unforeseen circumstances like flight cancellations, natural disasters, or personal emergencies. When booking offline, travellers benefit from dedicated support and assistance from their travel agents, who can help rebook flights, find alternative accommodation, and provide guidance during stressful situations. Not to mention, international travel often involves various regulations, visa requirements, and health protocols. We’re well-versed in these aspects, ensuring that all paperwork is in order and that travellers are aware of things like vaccinations and travel advisories.
COVID-19 was a great example of this. The volume of information surrounding even domestic travel, such as PPE protocols and social distancing, meant that the complexity of booking travel was more than before. And it became even more complicated for international travel, where PCR test requirements, quarantine information, and border restrictions were added to the mix. There was no single source for concise up-to-date information; the onus remained on the traveller. However, booking travel offline meant that we could guide travellers through the maze of information required, providing unrivalled support and service around the clock, 7 days a week.
Tailored Itineraries
Since online agencies tend to be more self-service, one of the biggest advantages of booking offline is the ability to create customised itineraries that cater to your specific needs and interests. We offer expert advice and insider knowledge, which can be invaluable for complex travel plans involving multiple destinations, special accommodations, or unique activities.
Save Time and Reduce Stress
Researching and booking a long-haul international trip can be time-consuming and stressful. Booking offline means you delegate this task to a professional who can manage every aspect of your travel requirements for you. From finding the best routes and deals to ensuring smooth connections and accommodations tailored to your preferences, this personalised service not only saves you hours of planning and comparing options but also reduces the stress associated with planning a complex travel itinerary. And, in case of unexpected changes or emergencies, having a dedicated professional to assist you provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on enjoying your journey rather than worrying about the intricacies of travel arrangements.
While online booking platforms offer convenience, the enhanced service and personal touch of offline booking make it an excellent choice for those seeking a seamless and enjoyable travel experience. For your next international adventure, consider the benefits of booking offline and enjoy a smoother, more personalised journey.
