Travel Designers v Online Travel Agents: an honest comparison
Often, using a travel designer will be what you’re looking for, but in some cases the likes of Booking.com are the way to go. This article explains the pros and cons of both sides honestly and transparently. This way, you’ll know what’s best for you
Human connection & personal service
Online Travel Agents (OTAs) are run by algorithms which are great for automatically recommending you destinations, hotels and experiences based on what they already know about you. Your point of contact is either a robot, a computer or a call centre, which means you and millions of other customers can seek help should you need it.
A travel designer is a human being who will take the time to get to know you. We are professionals who believe honesty, integrity and communication are paramount to what we do. Working with just a handful of clients means we deliver impeccable service, from the initial planning stage through to your safe return home. As our client, you are by definition a VIP, and you will be treated as such.
Knowledge & expertise
OTAs show you the basic info and details you need to know, which is perfect for the everyday traveller and the fast-paced world we live in today. Thanks to technology, you can always do your own investigating if you need to find out more information!
Travel designers visit, meticulously research and truly experience the properties and destinations we sell, and many of us live or have lived in those destinations. We are constantly kept updated by our key partners and suppliers all over the world with regular trips, meetings, and webinars. We are experts in our field, and it’s our passion and purpose to work our magic for you!
Exclusive benefits
Because of the sheer size and scale of OTAs, they don’t have to treat their customers on an individual basis or offer them special add-ons as standard. Furthermore, because their algorithms and computers are so advanced, they don’t need to forge long-standing, trusted relationships with their human partners and suppliers.
A travel designer’s job is to take the stress out of organising your holiday, and to take your trip the next level with exclusive benefits - such as exclusive rates , free room upgrades, transfers, meals, spa treatments and private tours - that you simply cannot get by booking yourself and that are often not publicly available. We have special relationships with the very best our industry has to offer, which guarantees our clients get preferential treatment. At the end of this article you’ll see the logos of just some of our key hotels and suppliers - you will be the direct beneficiary of these partnerships.
Timing and planning
OTAs are perfect for everyday trips. You can jump online and book your flights and hotels all in a matter of minutes. This is what the online giants do best: simplicity and ease of access for anyone.
Whenever we buy anything, we take time to meticulously research and check every detail to ensure we’re making a sensible, well-informed decision. Holidays are no different! A personal designer will help you create your perfect honeymoon, a spontaneous weekend away, that long-overdue family trip or a COVID-delayed adventure of a lifetime. Travel is an investment that can give you so much in return, so it’s crucial to research, plan and personalise your trip before committing your hard-earned cash.
Payments & pricing
OTAs offer you a multitude of options and deals to book, and are great if you’re happy to commit there and then. They may not always be the same prices as the hotels and suppliers themselves are offering, but you will always have a plethora of choice. Again, you can always do your own research to dig a little deeper.
Because independent designers have spent years nurturing their network and partnerships, we have access to the best available rates (including those all-important added extras that turn a great trip into a truly unforgettable one) and booking conditions. We ensure total transparency, honesty and flexibility at every stage of the process. We understand that your circumstances can change quickly and at any time, and as such we are extremely well-equipped to adapt to unexpected issues.
