💰 Is It More Expensive to Book Through a Travel Agent?
Is It More Expensive to Book Through a Travel Agent?
It’s a question we hear often — “Am I going to pay more by using a travel agent instead of booking it all myself online?”
It’s a fair concern. After all, in the age of online deals and price comparison sites, it can feel like everything is at your fingertips. But here’s the good news…
Booking with a travel agent doesn’t mean paying more. In fact, it often means getting more for what you spend. Let us explain.
💸 So… How Are Travel Agents Paid?
We keep it simple: we’re paid a commission from the tour operators, airlines, hotels, and cruise lines we book your holiday with.
That means in most cases, you don’t pay us directly. The price you see is often the same (or better) than you’d find online.
You get expert advice, someone to
handle all the logistics, and ongoing support
— without paying extra. Not bad, right?
🏷️ When Do Travel Agents Save You Money?
Booking with us can actually help stretch your budget further. Here’s how:
- Exclusive package deals that bundle flights, accommodation, transfers and extras – often cheaper than booking them separately
- Upgrades and perks like better rooms, welcome drinks, early check-in or resort credit
- Flexible payment plans or low deposits with our suppliers
- Group discounts or multi-room savings for families and friends travelling together
- Advice that avoids costly mistakes (like picking the wrong location or forgetting a visa)
🧠 What You Actually Pay For
Even when the price is similar to what you’d find online, here’s what you really gain:
✅ Convenience - We save you time. No endless scrolling. No stress comparing 17 flight times or dodgy hotel reviews. Just clear, tailored options.
✅ Knowledge - With years of experience and real
customer feedback, we help you pick the right resort, cruise or itinerary — not just what’s trending.
✅ Security - We only book with trusted, financially protected suppliers. Your holiday will be
ATOL protected, and if something goes wrong, we’re here to sort it out — not a call centre.
🧡 In a Nutshell…
You don’t pay more to book with us — but you do get so much more: Personal service and honest advice, Great value packages and exclusive extras, Someone to call when you need help, Your time back to enjoy the excitement (and skip the hassle)
✈️ Thinking of booking a holiday soon?
Let us price it up for you. No pressure, no obligation — just honest help and great holidays.
📞 Call us | 📍 Visit us | 💬 Enquire online
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#TravelTips #StressFreeTravel #HolidayPlanningHelp
#BetterWithABookingAgent
Tired of the same old Christmas market crowds in the usual big cities? This year, why not trade the familiar for something truly magical and unique? We've scoured Europe to bring you six enchanting, lesser-known Christmas markets that offer authentic charm, unique traditions, and unforgettable festive experiences, far from the bustling throngs of Munich or Prague. Get ready to unwrap a different kind of Christmas wonder! 1. Colmar, France: A Fairytale Come to Life Nestled in the heart of Alsace, Colmar is often described as a living fairytale, especially during Christmas. Its half-timbered houses, winding cobblestone streets, and canals are adorned with breathtaking lights and decorations, making it feel like stepping into a storybook. What it's known for: Colmar boasts a cozier, more intimate atmosphere compared to its larger Alsatian neighbour, Strasbourg. It's renowned for its high-quality Alsatian pottery, exquisite handmade ornaments, and a dedicated gourmet market where you can savor regional delicacies like foie gras, local cheeses, and warm spiced wine . What to expect: You'll find six distinct markets scattered throughout the charming old town, each with its own character. Expect a sensory delight of twinkling lights, festive aromas, and a warm, inviting ambiance perfect for leisurely browsing. It’s less about grand scale and more about intricate beauty and local craftsmanship. Recommended Hotel: For a charming stay right in the heart of the action, we suggest Le Colombier . Located in the picturesque Little Venice area, it offers comfort and excellent value, putting you steps away from the festive magic. 2. Montreux, Switzerland: Lakeside Wonderland & Santa's Home Perched on the shores of Lake Geneva with the majestic Alps as a backdrop, Montreux offers a Christmas market experience unlike any other. It combines traditional Swiss charm with unique, whimsical attractions. What it's known for: Montreux is famous for its "Christmas on the Quays" market, featuring over 150 chalets. But what truly sets it apart is Santa's House, accessible by a cogwheel train up to Rochers-de-Naye, where children can meet Santa himself. There's also a medieval market at the stunning Château de Chillon and a spectacular light show projected onto the Montreux Palace. What to expect: A truly magical, family-friendly atmosphere. You can wander along the lakeside promenade, enjoy traditional Swiss treats like raclette and fondue, and witness Santa "flying" across the sky in his sleigh (a clever cable car illusion!). It's a blend of traditional market stalls and unique festive entertainment. Recommended Hotel: Stay at Hotel Parc & Lac for unparalleled proximity to the market and stunning lake views, ensuring you're at the heart of the festive buzz.
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Let’s face it — one of the first questions everyone asks when planning a holiday is: “How much is it going to cost?” And for good reason. Between flights, hotels, insurance, transfers, and extras… it can get confusing fast. That’s why we’ve created this guide — to give you real, honest insights into what holidays actually cost, what affects the price, and how we at ItsSo Travel help you make the most of your budget. Whether you're dreaming of a relaxing beach break, a luxury escape, or a fun family getaway, we’re here to break it all down. 🧾 What Makes Up the Price of a Holiday? Here’s what typically goes into the cost of your trip: ✈️ Flights (including luggage, seats, and airport taxes) 🏨 Accommodation (hotel, resort, villa, or tour) 🚖 Transfers (shuttle, private taxi, or self-drive) 🍽️ Board basis (B&B, Half Board, All-Inclusive) 🧳 Travel insurance & financial protection 🎟️ Optional extras (tours, activities, car hire) 🛂 Seasonality (travel dates and peak times) 💡 Travel agent tip: When we quote a holiday, we aim to include everything upfront — so there are no nasty surprises later. 💡 Realistic Holiday Cost Examples Here’s a rough idea of what different types of holidays might cost in 2025 — based on real bookings we make every day. 🇬🇷 European Beach Holiday (7 nights) Budget: from £1,200 for 2 adults Mid-range: £2,000–£4,000 Luxury: £5,000+ Includes return flights, hotel, transfers, and all-inclusive board 🏝️ Luxury Caribbean Escape (10 nights) Mid-range resort: £3,800–£5,000 per couple High-end (e.g. Sandals): £6,000–£9,000 Private villa or butler level: £10,000+ Includes premium flights, 5★ accommodation, private transfers, insurance 👨👩👧👦 Family Summer Holiday (Europe, 7 nights) Budget: £2,500–£4,500 for 4 people Mid-range : £5,000–£7,000 Luxury: £8,000+ With beachfront resort, kids’ club, family room or suite, and transfers 🚍 Escorted Tour Holiday (Europe) Entry level: £1,800–£2,500 per person Premium experience: £2,800–£4,000+ Usually includes flights, accommodation, guides, and many meals ⏱️ What Affects the Price? You’ll often see big price differences online or from week to week — and here’s why: 📆 Time of Year – School holidays and peak seasons push prices up ✈️ Flight Times – Direct flights and premium times usually cost more ⭐ Hotel Star Rating – A 3★ city stay isn’t the same as a 5★ beachfront suite 👨👩👧👦 Number of Travellers – Per person costs vary for couples vs families 🏷️ Booking Timing – Early bookings often come with extras or better rates 🔐 Travel Protection – ATOL & ABTA-covered trips offer security but may cost slightly more 💼 Is It Cheaper to Book Online? Sometimes, yes. But here’s the big question: Do you really know what you're buying? Many online prices don’t include: Luggage or seat selection Transfers to your resort Hidden resort fees or taxes Protection if something goes wrong 👩💻 At ItsSo Travel, we help you compare like-for-like, explain why costs vary, and give you the full picture — no guesswork required. 🧠 How We Help You Maximise Your Budget As an independent travel agency, our mission isn’t just to “book a holiday” — it’s to craft an experience that fits your budget, your style, and your expectations. Here’s how we make your money go further: 🎁 Free upgrades & exclusive deals – Thanks to our network of suppliers ✅ Price-match options – We’ll show you what you really get for your money 🚫 Avoid costly mistakes – Like picking a hotel miles from the beach or a flight with a 10-hour layover 💬 Real advice – We listen first, then guide you to the right choice 🧾 Clear, all-in pricing – So you know exactly what you're paying for 📚 More Helpful Reads on Holiday Costs 🔗 Is All-Inclusive Worth It in 2025? 🔗 How Much Does a Caribbean Holiday Cost? 🔗 Travel Agent vs Booking.com: What You’re Really Paying For 🔗 Budgeting for a Family Holiday – Our Best Tips 📞 Ready to Plan Your Trip? 💬 Chat with us or book a free holiday planning call — no pressure, just honest advice. Or download our Free Holiday Budget Planner to help figure out what’s possible for your next trip. Final Thought… If you’ve ever felt unsure about what a holiday should cost — you’re not alone. But when you plan it with someone who has your back, understands your goals, and explains the pricing honestly… you’ll not only feel more confident, you’ll get far more value for your money. That’s what we do at ItsSo Travel . Let’s craft your perfect trip — together.
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ABTA v ATOL, What's the difference and how all holidays booked with ItsSo Travel are protected with both.
Is my holiday protected with a travel agent, ATOL protection explained UK, What is ATOL certificate, ABTA vs ATOL difference, Travel agent financial protection, Booking protected holidays, Is my money safe when booking a holiday
If we had a pound for every time we heard that, we'd probably own our own airline by now. Yet here we are in 2025, busier than ever, and there's a very good reason why. While the internet promised to make travel planning easier, it's actually made it more overwhelming than a teenager choosing what to watch on Netflix. Drowning in Options? We're Your Life Jacket Picture this: You're planning a two-week trip to Southeast Asia. You open your laptop with the best intentions, and three hours later you're staring at 47 open browser tabs , comparing flight prices that seem to change every time you refresh, reading conflicting hotel reviews, and wondering if that "amazing deal" in Bangkok is actually in a decent area or next to a construction site. Sound familiar? You're not alone. The modern traveller faces what psychologists call "choice overload" – and it's real. When Expedia shows you 200+ hotels in Rome and Booking.com offers slightly different prices for the same properties, decision-making becomes paralysis. Add in the rabbit holes of travel blogs, Instagram recommendations, and TripAdvisor reviews (some written by people whose idea of adventure is trying a new supermarket), and it's no wonder many people either book the same safe options repeatedly or abandon their dream trips altogether. This is where we come in. Think of us as your personal travel filter. We cut through the noise, eliminate the dodgy options, and present you with curated choices that actually match what you're looking for. No more wondering if that beachfront hotel photo was taken with a very creative angle or if "city centre" actually means a 45-minute taxi ride. Why We're Better Than Your Favourite Booking Site Don't get us wrong – booking engines serve a purpose. They're brilliant for straightforward trips where you know exactly what you want. But they're essentially sophisticated vending machines. Put in your dates and destination, get out a booking confirmation. Job done. But what happens when you want something more than a basic transaction? What if you're celebrating a milestone anniversary and want somewhere truly special? What if you're travelling with elderly parents and need accessible rooms that booking sites don't properly filter for? What if your flight gets cancelled at 2am and you're stuck in an airport in Bangkok with no customer service chat box to help you? Here's what we bring to the table that no algorithm can match: Real relationships with suppliers . When your honeymoon suite in the Maldives turns out to have a broken air conditioning unit, we have actual human contacts who can sort it out immediately. Try getting that level of service from a booking engine's customer service chat. Local knowledge that goes beyond reviews . We know which Roman restaurants are tourist traps, which safari lodges have the best guides, and which Caribbean islands to avoid during seaweed season. This isn't information you'll find in automated recommendations. Flexibility when things go sideways . Flight strikes, natural disasters, sudden illness – travel doesn't always go to plan. When disruption happens, you need someone in your corner who knows how to rebuild your trip, not just issue a refund. Access to perks and upgrades . Our relationships often mean complimentary breakfasts, room upgrades, early check-ins, and other touches that transform a good trip into an unforgettable one. The New Age of Travel: It's Not Your Parents' Package Holiday Travel in 2025 looks nothing like it did even five years ago. The pandemic fundamentally shifted how and why people travel, and we're seeing some fascinating trends that play perfectly into what travel agents do best. The Rise of Tailor-Made Travel Cookie-cutter holidays are out. Personalised experiences are in. Today's travellers want trips that reflect their individual interests, whether that's a food-focused tour of Japan, a photography expedition in Iceland, or a wellness retreat in Costa Rica combined with adventure activities. This level of customisation is where booking engines fall flat. They can't understand that you want to combine your love of craft beer with historical sites, or that you need accommodations that cater to your gluten-free diet while still being family-friendly. We excel at joining these dots and creating cohesive itineraries that feel authentically you. Bucket List Travel is Booming People aren't just travelling – they're checking off life goals. Whether it's seeing the Northern Lights, walking the Great Wall of China, or going on an African safari, travellers are prioritising meaningful experiences over frequent quick getaways. These once-in-a-lifetime trips require serious planning. You don't want to discover after the fact that you visited Iceland during cloudy season for aurora viewing, or that your safari timing coincided with the animals' migration away from your chosen park. This is where our expertise becomes invaluable – we ensure your bucket list experiences actually happen the way you've dreamed them. Multi-Generational Travel is the New Normal Gone are the days when family holidays meant just parents and kids. Today's family trips often span three or even four generations , bringing together grandparents, parents, teens, and young children for shared adventures. Coordinating these trips is like conducting an orchestra – everyone has different needs, mobility levels, interests, and stamina. Grandma might want cultural experiences and comfortable accommodation, while the teenagers are after adventure activities and Instagram-worthy spots. The parents are trying to keep everyone happy while actually getting to relax themselves. This level of complexity requires human insight and creativity. We specialise in finding accommodations, activities, and itineraries that work for everyone, creating those precious family memories without the stress of trying to please multiple generations simultaneously. The Bottom Line In 2025, travel agents aren't just surviving – we're thriving because we solve real problems that technology hasn't cracked yet. We're part therapist (listening to what you actually want, not just what you think you want), part detective (finding those hidden gems and perfect solutions), and part insurance policy (there when things don't go according to plan). Yes, you can book a trip online. But can you book the right trip? Can you navigate the inevitable hiccups with grace? Can you turn a good holiday into an extraordinary one? That's where we come in. In a world drowning in options, we're your guide to the experiences that matter. Because life's too short for mediocre holidays and too precious to waste on travel stress. Ready to start planning something special? We're here to turn your travel dreams into perfectly crafted reality.
