mike wrote in news:e2a09b94-291b-4345-b58a-
8d637aa02a5e@a1g2000hsb.googlegroups.com:
> Thanks people. Fair enough. So how do I find a reputable local agent?
>
> Already said we're not allowed to discuss this on CruiseCritic.com--
> which, unless I'm wrong, is actually owned by Expedia. Wonder if that
> has anything to do with their stated policy?
>
> Are there any web sites that allow people to rate their travel agents
> like sites where people can rate doctors? That would be nice.
You mentioned fear of going out of business in rejecting small
operators, remember that as long as you use a "good" agent who charges
your payments through the cruise line (beware anyone who wants to run
the funds through their account except in very specific cases-ie some
air consolidators give 3% discounts for cash transactions) as long as
your payments are properly handled the risk is the cruise line not the
agent.
IMHO service is inversely proportional to size in this industry. Small
shops give close to 24/7 service by letting you call them directly. Big
one are open 24/7 but it is hard to find anyone who can do anything
other than take your order, for some if you ask any questions you find
that the discounted rate disappears . . . It used to be that discount
shopping was fruitful, in recent years relationship has resulted inthe
better response. An agent with a relationship knows you and the way you
travel, can recommend a good restaurant and who knows may even buy you
dinner.
--
Joseph Coulter, cruises and vacations
www.josephcoulter.com
yourvacation@comcast.net
877 832 2021
904 631 8863 cell
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