Do Your Research Before Traveling - Travel Agents Vs The
By Sue Taylor, Mon Dec 26th

When planning to take a trip, it is advisable to spend some timedoing research even if you are booking through a Travel Agent.This research could save you a significant amount of money andperhaps prevent a miserable stay in a sub-standard hotel.

Many people have moved away from using Travel Agents. This isunderstandable due to the availability of cheap fares and hotelrooms available through the internet. However, it is wise toconsider the benefits of utilizing a professional particularlywhen proposing to visit somewhere that you haven't previouslybeen. Some of the advantages of using a Travel Agent are gainingthe benefit of their expertise, experience, personal service,ability and indeed the obligation to clarify and inform you ofdetails in the fine print which you may miss if booking on yourown account, their up to date knowledge of the latest deals andtheir ability to distill and interpret information to hopefullyoffer you the best value deal for your trip.

With that said, it is still prudent to conduct your ownresearch. The Travel Agent can provide suggestions about a rangeof airlines you could use and different fares and advise onhotels in good areas within budget guidelines. At this point youhave some great information to work off. You have not had tostart from scratch. You have an idea as to which are the betterpriced airlines and the areas you should look at staying takinginto account what you're looking to do in a particular place.Now you can see if there are internet deals that may beat theair fares the Travel Agent has quoted you. In many cases thesedays, the Travel Agency will do what they can to equal or beatwhatever publicized deal is out there.

10 Reasons to Vacation in Florida
Florida fanatics don't need an excuse to make their way to The Sunshine State for a little R&R, no matter what time of the year it may be. But those who don't know this beautiful southern state as well as those Florida aficionados may not be aware of all the wonderful things waiting for them in the U.S.'s 4th most populous state. There are myriad reasons to vacation in Florida, but here are the top 10. . . Drum roll, please!
Florida Economy Strongly Tied to its Coastline
A study released by the Florida Oceans and Coastal Council reports that Florida's coastal economy contributed over $562 billion in revenue to the state and Florida's ocean economy contributed $25 billion in the year 2006, the last year for which statistics are currently available.
St. Augustine - A Unique Honeymoon Destination
Being the oldest city in the U.S., St. Augustine, Florida, has everything from a rich history to beautiful pristine beaches. European architecture gives it a charm and a romantic flavor that no other city in the U.S. can claim and everywhere a person looks, there are breathtaking views to be had. For the couple looking for a truly unforgettable experience, St. Augustine is a great honeymoon destination.
Florida Tourism Officials Saying "No" to Offshore Drilling
Florida tourism officials want their voice to be heard in regards to offshore drilling along the Florida coast and have embarked on a letter writing campaign that will make their opinions clear to lawmakers throughout the state.
Tampa Rays on their way to MLB World Series!
In a nail-biting series, the Tampa Bay Devil Rays win MLB American League Championship Series. This advances them to the World Series against the Philadelphia Phillies.
10 Ways to Save Money on a Florida Vacation
A Florida vacation, especially for those looking to escape the cold weather of the north, is a dream come true, filled with world-class attractions, sandy beaches, and plenty of sun and warm weather. While Florida remains one of the most affordable destinations in the U.S., these days it never hurts to find some ways to save money on your next Florida vacation, providing more dollars with which to enjoy Florida's abundant sunshine and ample attractions. Here's a list of the 10 best ways to save money on a Florida vacation.
Florida's Stone Crab Season Now Open!
Start melting the butter! Florida has officially opened its 2008-2009 stone crab season and this wonderful shellfish will soon start appearing on restaurant menus and family dinner tables throughout the Sunshine State.
Florida Most Popular with International Home Buyers
International real estate purchases in Florida account for more than one-fourth of all foreign home purchases made in the United States, notes a report released this week by the National Association of Realtors.
Florida Citrus Crop Experiences Sizeable Increase
Florida Citrus Crop Experiences Sizeable Increase According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), this year, Florida?s citrus crop has increased more than thirty percent over last year?s numbers for the same time period, indicating that the state made an excellent comeback after crops were ravaged by a number of hurricanes during the 2006-2007 growing season.


It is a very competitiveindustry. In the cases of hotels, many of the chains as well assome independents are claiming to have the best internet dealson their own sites. This is of benefit to both the consumer aswell as the hotel. They don't have to pay commission to a thirdparty and you are dealing directly with the establishment thatyou are proposing to stay with who can answer any queries thatyou may have regarding elements of your accommodation as well aspossibly saving money. You will also find that when bookingdirect off the hotel website that you may be offered upgrades orspecials not available anywhere else.

The internet is also a great and up to date resource which canallow you to read reviews from consumers regarding airlines,hotels, sightseeing trips and just about anything that you canthink of. This can be invaluable. If you go to a site such aswww.tripadvisor.com you will find reviews on just about anyhotel in the world. Many of the reviews provide excellentinformation about the hotel rooms, restaurants, attitude of thestaff, cleanliness, activities and pool if they have one. Iflooking for reviews on airlines there are 2 particularly goodsites - www.epinions.com and www.carsurvey.org/air

Don't underestimate the value of a good Travel Agent but beprepared to put in some time to conduct your own research. Theworst you could do is add to the excitement of planning for atrip and maybe you'll even save yourself some money!

About the author:Sue Taylor is a seasoned traveler. For more information abouthertravel experiences, refer to http://www.newzealandtravelsite.comand http://www.taylortraveltales.com for further details abouther travels.

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