If you’re planning a trip in the near future, then I’m sure you’ve come across the question “Should I or should I not make my arrangements through a travel agency?” I’ve encountered that many times, not necessarily when I’m traveling but when I’m setting up travel arrangements for my dad. He’s very big on savings and on good, quality service so I have to be careful with my choices for him.
Here it is in a nutshell: if you’re traveling alone, then it’s better if you make the arrangements yourself. The airllines offer discounts to people who buy their tickets in person, so go to their main office (or to their nearest office, not in the offices of agencies authorized to sell their tickets) and ask if they have promos and airfare discounts. Most likely they have some promo going on at the moment. You can also call and check in with their offices before going there. Don’t expect discounts for accomodations though – like everything else, there are discounts in big numbers.
But if you’re traveling in a large group, or if you’re a couple traveling and you don’t know anyone from the place you’re visiting (especially when the place in question is outside your own country), then it’s best to get the services of travel agencies. They have discounted packages for large groups and for companies as well, which will save you a significant amount of money. Of course, be careful with the travel agency you’re booking with – check their license and their papers, because some businesses may not be legal after all and you could lose your money at once. But that’s my tip for the day: solo means you book everything yourself, group or couple means you’re better off with a travel agency unless you know someone from the place you’re visiting.