Agents or consultants, tour group leaders, guidebooks, and websites are all examples of travel resources. Many travelers use a combination of resources to plan a trip rather than relying on just one. While travel professionals provide customer service and industry knowledge, websites where other travelers post unbiased hotel and attraction reviews can also be a useful resource.
Travel review websites are a popular resource for those interested in hearing from others who have stayed at a hotel or visited a tourist attraction. When combined with other travel resource information, such as that provided by guidebooks and agents, such unbiased reviews can assist travelers in deciding where to stay and which attractions to visit. People who read negative reviews in these types of travel resources are still likely to stay in those hotels or visit those attractions. For example, what is a negative for one traveler may be a positive for another. Good reviews about already popular travel destinations often only serve to confirm that travelers want to experience them for themselves.
Other websites feature travel writers’ informative articles. These pieces could be similar to those found in city guides or guidebooks. Some web-based travel resources have a lot more informal, personal travel stories. Professional travel writers usually provide a wealth of practical advice based on both personal experience and research. Travel resource material such as maps and what to pack for each season may also be included in guidebook articles.
Tour group leaders can be excellent travel resources for information about a particular city, even if they are not unbiased in their reviews of attractions because many of them work for or with these establishments. Many of them have traveled extensively throughout the city and can provide travelers with a wealth of information based on their personal experiences. Travel agents or consultants, on the other hand, are usually experienced travelers as well as industry professionals with a wealth of knowledge to share.
Travelers can save time and money by calling airlines or hotels through a travel agent or consultant. He or she frequently receives price breaks that are beneficial to travelers. Consultants or agents are usually excellent travel resources because they develop relationships with clients and learn about their preferences and requirements. Many travel agents and consultants are familiar with good resorts in various locations and can help travelers book airline flights that are the most cost-effective.