In the travel industry, booking hotels is a fundamental aspect of the services provided by travel advisors. According to a recent Travel Weekly poll, a significant majority of advisors handle hotel bookings for their clients, with nearly 85% of respondents stating that they do so frequently. However, despite the importance of this service, the methods used by travel advisors to book accommodations vary widely based on a variety of factors.
One of the major factors influencing the choice of booking channel is the purpose of the clients’ travel – whether it is for business or leisure. According to Daniel Olsen of Beyond & Back Travel, corporate business travel accommodations are typically booked through the Global Distribution System (GDS) due to the specific workflow designed for such clientele. This emphasizes the tailored approach taken by travel advisors based on the nature of the travel occasion.
While GDS remains a popular choice for booking hotels, other platforms such as direct booking through a property’s website, app, or call center, and VAX VacationAccess are also favored by a significant number of advisors. Additionally, proprietary websites or booking systems provided by agencies, consortia, and consolidators or wholesalers like Expedia TAAP are frequently utilized. Despite having preferences, many advisors rely on a combination of platforms to find the best deals and amenities for their clients.
One challenge faced by travel advisors is the need to check online travel agencies (OTAs) for competitive pricing, even though very few bookings are actually made through them. This is particularly important when putting together complex packages for clients, as OTAs can sometimes offer significantly lower prices compared to traditional wholesalers. Another challenge highlighted by advisors is the issue of commission payouts when booking directly with hotels. While some prefer direct bookings for VIP clients to ensure a higher level of service, others have faced difficulties in receiving commissions owed from hotels.
Despite the challenges involved in hotel bookings, travel advisors continue to adapt and find ways to enhance the overall booking experience for their clients. By utilizing a mix of booking platforms and keeping client preferences in mind, advisors strive to provide the best accommodation options tailored to the specific needs and expectations of each traveler.
Overall, the process of booking hotels for clients is multifaceted and requires careful consideration of various factors such as travel purpose, client preferences, and the availability of amenities and prices. By understanding these challenges and adapting to the evolving landscape of the travel industry, travel advisors are better equipped to provide exceptional service to their clients and create memorable travel experiences.
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