In the world of travel advising, the process of booking hotels is a crucial component that can make or break the overall travel experience for clients. A recent poll conducted by Travel Weekly revealed that a significant majority of travel advisors, almost 85% to be precise, frequently or often book hotels, resorts, and other accommodations for their clients. However, when it comes to the specific channels used for these bookings, the preferences among travel advisors vary significantly.
One travel advisor aptly summarized the situation by stating, “It depends,” highlighting the diverse methods employed by advisors based on their clients’ specific needs. Factors such as the purpose of travel, type of accommodation, and client preferences all play a role in determining the most suitable hotel booking channel. For instance, corporate business travel accommodations are typically booked through the Global Distribution System (GDS), with almost 98% of such bookings made via this channel, according to Daniel Olsen, COO of Beyond & Back Travel.
Among the various booking platforms available to travel advisors, a GDS is favored by approximately 20% of respondents in the Travel Weekly poll. Similarly, 19.3% of advisors prefer booking directly through a property’s website, app, or call center, while VAX VacationAccess is a popular choice for 16.5% of advisors. Proprietary websites or booking systems offered by agencies or consortia are frequently used by around 14.3% of respondents, and 12% rely on consolidators or wholesalers like Expedia TAAP or Classic Vacations. It is worth noting that many advisors use a combination of platforms in their booking process to compare amenities, availability, and pricing.
Despite the array of booking channels available, travel advisors face challenges when it comes to finding the best deals for their clients. While checking online travel agencies (OTAs) for competitive pricing is common practice, less than 3% of respondents actually end up booking through them. For some advisors, the decision on the booking channel fluctuates based on the specific needs of their clients. However, when it comes to VIP clients, direct bookings are often preferred, even if they result in lower or no commission payout.
One of the main concerns for travel advisors when booking directly with hotels is the risk of unpaid commissions. Several advisors mentioned the arduous process of chasing commissions owed by hoteliers, especially since the onset of the pandemic. This issue has led to frustration and wasted time for many advisors, highlighting the drawbacks of direct bookings in certain scenarios.
The landscape of hotel booking channels for travel advisors is multifaceted and constantly evolving. While each advisor may have their own preferences and methods of booking accommodations for clients, the ultimate goal remains to provide a seamless and comfortable travel experience. By navigating the complexities of booking platforms and understanding the risks involved, travel advisors can ensure that their clients receive the best possible service and accommodations.