Travel agent - how to compensate?

[SorcererC]

Not sure this is the right place to post, so please delete if not allowed.

I booked a stay with a travel agent. Then bought into DVC and was able to use our points for that same trip. Now I need to cancel the cash reservations. I'd like to compensate the travel agent for her time and efforts on our behalf. Any thoughts on a reasonable amount? Trip was approx. $4500 with rooms and tickets.

 

[RoseGold]

I think a $50 or $100 gift card would be a nice thing to do. I know they really have gotten hit hard.

 

[Lorana]

Not sure this is the right place to post, so please delete if not allowed.

I booked a stay with a travel agent. Then bought into DVC and was able to use our points for that same trip. Now I need to cancel the cash reservations. I'd like to compensate the travel agent for her time and efforts on our behalf. Any thoughts on a reasonable amount? Trip was approx. $4500 with rooms and tickets.

A travel agent would likely have made $450 on that trip. Not saying that's what you should compensate (and btw, I think it's awesome that you plan on doing so!), just giving context of how much commission they would have earned.

 

[SorcererC]

A travel agent would likely have made $450 on that trip. Not saying that's what you should compensate (and btw, I think it's awesome that you plan on doing so!), just giving context of how much commission they would have earned.

Thank you, that is really helpful information! I can only imagine what a challenge this year has been for so many, financially. Hoping to ease the hit a bit!

 

[Magical_Suitcase]

You are right, this year has been the pits for folks in the travel industry, as well as many other venues.

I am sure that anything you give will be welcome, even a $10 Starbucks card.

A thank you card and a gift card or bottle of wine would certainly bring a smile to their face. Also, maybe mention something to the effect that while you do not need their services for this trip, you will contact them for future non-WDW vacations (maybe a cruise???) and recommend them to others. I am never upset when a client cancels but I am always grateful when they give me a good review and recommend me to their friends.

I hope you enjoy DVC as much as we have over the years.
Smiles, Kate

 

[RogueX]

As a former travel agent I can say that this year would have been a nightmare scenario had I stayed in the business. Anything you do will be appreciated.

 

[stargazertechie]

A gift card would be lovely. The greatest gift you could give right now would be warm referrals of friends you know who are ready and willing to travel ASAP despite COVID.

I’m so glad I’m taking some time away from the industry now. Best timed pregnancy ever

 

[Magical_Suitcase]

A gift card would be lovely. The greatest gift you could give right now would be warm referrals of friends you know who are ready and willing to travel ASAP despite COVID.

I’m so glad I’m taking some time away from the industry now. Best timed pregnancy ever

You did time your pregnancy well. Congratulations! Not on the timing but the new addition to your family.

I feel lucky that my travel agency gig is just part time and I still have a full time job to support our family. I feel really bad for those that book travel or work in the travel industry as their full time job. At least people are still booking (some) for future vacations.

Smiles,
Kate