Is booking airline tickets online cheaper then a travel agent?

The recent publication of alarmist and sensational “facts” by an online travel retailer that suggests consumers are being ripped off by travel agents has prompted South African Travel Centre (SATC) to set the record straight and assure the public that they are among the best-protected consumers worldwide.
 
This is largely thanks to the Consumer Protection Act.
 
According to SATC CEO Bulelwa Koyana, consumers have become more vigilant with respect to understanding their rights. “There is definitely increased evidence of consumers protecting themselves from entering into potentially harmful transactions with commercial entities operating in the country,” she says.
 
Koyana says it is important to understand why consumers continue to seek the services of travel professionals (travel agents). “Travel professionals are exposed to every aspect of the industry and they are well-positioned to provide the most appropriate solution to each client’s unique situation.
 
“Their experience and expertise is invaluable with regards to destination-specific conditions such as visa or health vaccination requirements, advice regarding flight connecting times, not to mention personal support in the event that travel disruptions occur (this brings to mind the frustrations faced by stranded travelers during the recent volcanic eruptions),” she says.
 
She says consumers should always deal with an ASATA member travel agent to be assured their best interests are looked after. - Saturday Star
 

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