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Using a Travel Agent: How Does it Work, and is it Worth it?

Dreaming of your next vacation, but don’t know where to start? A professional travel agent can help you.

For years, travel agents have been the go-to option for trip planning for millions of people around the world. However, these days they’re not the only solution. As technology continues to develop, there are now many more ways to put together your ideal trip – and get the most out of your time there. 

But if you’ve ever wondered how a travel agent works, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know – and take a look at some of the hottest alternatives for travel planning. 

You’ll also discover how Whop’s fantastic travel communities offer you flexibility and control over planning your next trip.

Ready to dive in?

Booking Travel Online in 2024

The travel industry took a big hit in 2020/21 during the pandemic as the world went into lockdown. However, it has recovered remarkably in just a couple of years.

In 2023, the global online travel industry brought in $667.55bn of revenue, and is expected to reach a whopping $1.569tn by the end of the decade. Another eye-opening stat revealed in a recent TravelPerk survey is that flight demand has recovered to about 95% of the level it was prior to the pandemic. 

With the world once again open for tourism, there is an increased demand for inspirational travel content and trip-planning services.

What Does a Travel Agent Do?

Travel agents help people put together trips. They provide advice and find accommodation, flights and other services, like vehicle hire and tickets to attractions. 

In the “old days” (i.e. before the internet), trip planning usually involved calling up or visiting a brick-and-mortar travel agency or independent travel consultant.

The agent would search their databases to find the right vacation package based on the user’s needs and budget. Travelers could also collect physical brochures and pick the trip they wanted, booking it through the operator or via a travel agent.

Travel agents collect a commission of around 5% to 20% from partner agencies, hotels, and other providers when a traveler books their service. They might also charge clients a fee for their services.

While physical travel agencies and independent consultants still operate, the internet has brought a whole host of other options to find and book travel. As well as giving travel professionals access to more planning and booking tools, travelers can now take on the role of travel agent themselves.

So, do people still use travel agents?

In a word, yes. The same TravelPerk survey found that since the pandemic, 29% of respondents still book their trips through travel agents or operators. 

The travel agent sector has also evolved to meet the shifting trends. Physical agents, like Avant Travel, complement their in-person offering with an option for users to explore and book trips online:

In addition, online travel agents (OTAs) offer a similar service to brick-and-mortar businesses.

Some of the more familiar OTAs include Expedia Group, Booking.com and Tripadvisor. These sites offer full trip planning services and, often, customer reviews of hotels, etc.

Users plug in their requirements and the OTA brings up a list of options. Travelers can book flights and accommodation separately or as a package. 

They can also add on things like car hire, transfers and tickets for local attractions to put together their ideal trip.

The TravelPerk survey showed that 41% of participants preferred booking via an OTA over other methods. Among U.S. travelers aged under 35, the most common use of OTAs was to book hotel rooms.

Even sites that traditionally focused on a specific element of travel, such as Skyscanner, now offer related travel services to help users book an entire trip.

Travel agents vs tour operators

Are travel agents and operators the same? There is some overlap here in the fact they both help clients find and book trips.

The main difference is that operators sell their own trips and tours, while agents act as intermediaries, selling other providers’ services.

However, operators might act like travel agents in some cases. For example, if you book an escorted tour through an operator, they might also help with booking flights and offer suggestions for adding extra nights’ accommodation.

Specialty travel agents

As well as general travel agents and OTAs, there are those which focus on specific types of trips and travelers. 

These agents offer clients a bespoke service within their area of specialty and often attract a higher commission and fees. A few travel agent specialties include:

Business travel

Business-focused agents like TravelPerk and Egencia work with employers and firms to provide corporate travel solutions. Travel agents in this space charge companies a fee for their services.

Often, corporate travel agents offer a wider travel management service beyond just accommodation and transport. This might include things like:

• expense management
• geo-tracking (in high-risk locations)  
• loyalty / rewards programs

As well as individual employees, corporate travel management firms and agents organize group travel for teams. 

Eco-tourism

Specialist agents have sprung up in the growing areas of sustainable travel and eco-tourism.

Overall, according to Statista, the “eco-tourism” sector is expected to grow from $172.4bn in 2022 to $374.2bn in 2028, reflecting people’s awareness of the environmental impact of travel.

Agents in this space help environmentally conscious travelers find trips that result in a lower carbon footprint or which reduce other environmental harm.

The focus is often on locations with green credentials and trips which include a social component. This might include volunteering or giving back to local communities.

While many general travel agents and operators book road trip packages, there are those which specialize in this type of travel.

From advising on the best itineraries to booking accommodation on the route, travel agents can assist with getting the most from your journey. They may also offer organized tours.

Agents in this space arrange for things like one-way car or RV rental, as well as different types of transport, such as motorbikes.

Backpacking / round-the-world

Another growing area is longer stays, such as backpacking, gap years, or the ultimate in global travel: round-the-world (RTW) trips.

Specialist agents can provide a valuable service here when it comes to route planning. RTW trips in particular can be challenging to plan due to the different flights and overland travel between stops.

There is so much to think about when planning an RTW adventure, an expert agent can take away some of the stress and also make sure you see as much as possible.

Agents and operators in this space may also offer access to escorted tours, with travel, accommodation and the services of a tour leader.

Likewise, agents can arrange things like volunteering, work opportunities and homestay accommodation. They also offer support while you’re away.

At the high-end of the market, dedicated travel agents offer expert advice on all aspects of luxury getaways. 

This is where using an agent can be worthwhile, as they tailor bespoke luxury experiences for selective clients on a higher budget.

If you want to plan that dream trip, luxury travel agents can find the most exclusive accommodation and experiences.

For example, Luxury Wanderlust Travel here on Whop offers all the tools you need for planning a luxurious trip. 

Luxury travel agents usually charge fees for their services but they work with clients who demand a high level of service and are willing to pay. 

Pros & Cons of Using a Travel Agent

There are advantages and disadvantages to booking your trip through an in-person travel agent, consultant or OTA. These include: 

Alternative Trip Planning Tools & Services

There are plenty of alternative trip planning options out there if you don’t want to use a travel agent.

Which is best for your needs will depend on things like your budget, type of trip, and the amount of time you have to spend on planning. 

It also depends on your own knowledge of the location. If you know a place well, putting a trip together will be easier.

Here are three alternative options for planning a trip:

1. The DIY option 

With this option, you do all the trip research, planning and booking yourself. 

If you know your destination, dates, and budget, you can head online and look for accommodation, travel and other services. 

OTAs are useful here, as you can compare flights, accommodation and other elements of the trip, then shop around to put together the right package for your needs. This offers the ultimate flexibility and it can be exciting to research the trip and book it yourself.

However, it’s also time consuming. The TravelPerk survey showed that, on average, people spend five hours researching online travel content before booking.

If you aren’t sure about elements of your trip or the location, you might also find it difficult to find what you want.

The DIY route may be okay for long weekends and other simple trips. However, it might be more challenging for, say, six months backpacking in Vietnam if you’re not a seasoned traveler. 

It’s also easier to overlook things like travel insurance, visa rules, and vaccinations. Plus, there are scammers out there, so be careful when booking and paying upfront for things like privately hosted accommodation and tours. 

2. Planning apps 

The next option is to use a dedicated trip planning tool. You can increasingly find AI-driven apps and chatbots which offer advice on aspects of travel, from routes to things to do on vacation.

Examples include:

• Vacay Chatbot
• Roadtrippers

Like other sectors, the use of AI is spreading in the travel industry. So, even if you use a travel agent, you might find yourself “talking” to the firm’s chatbot.

One of the advantages of these tools is that you have 24/7 access. The downsides include the lack of personalization and potential privacy concerns.

3. Find a dedicated community

A third choice is to tap into other people’s experiences and knowledge by connecting with a travel community, like WorldWide , which you can find right here on Whop.

The great thing about this option is that you get to connect with other people who know a particular destination. 

These platforms might share hacks to save you money while you’re traveling or highlight cool places to visit that are off the usual tourist routes.

While travel agents still offer a valuable service, particularly for specialist travel, they are not the only (or cheapest) way to book all types of trips.

The internet has opened up trip planning, so travelers can now benefit from access to a wide range of resources for getting the most from vacations and longer adventures. 

These resources include Whop’s travel communities !

Plan Your Travels With Whop

If you want help planning any kind of trip, Whop is here to help. 

Our travel creators provide fantastic content and services to help save you money and to get more from your next adventure – whether a luxury weekend away or a year backpacking around the world.

Explore chat rooms, guides, dedicated communities, and all kinds of other ways to take control of your travels.

Find everything from tips on scoring discounted flights and tickets to opportunities to connect with fellow globetrotters.

And if you dream of turning your love of travel into a business – Whop is also your one-stop-shop for building and growing your audience. 

Explore the Whop marketplace and find your inspiration.

Rob Truslove

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Is it better to book a cruise through a travel agent? We say yes

Going online to book an airline ticket or hotel stay is a familiar and fairly easy transaction. When you book a cruise, however — particularly your first cruise — you might want to reconsider the impulse to handle the transaction yourself through a cruise line website or an online advertiser with cheap prices. This DIY approach might not be the best way to find your dream vacation at sea.

In reality, it's not that simple to book a cruise. You will likely run into a lot of questions to which you have no ready answer.

That's where specialized cruise travel agents come into play. Their expertise can help you avoid mistakes, whether you are a first-timer or a repeat cruiser checking out a brand you have not tried before.

Why you should book through a cruise travel agent

You should consider booking a cruise through a travel agent because a knowledgeable agent can help you understand the nuances of a cruise purchase and help you make the best decisions for your vacation preferences.

When you book a cruise, you are making a vacation decision that goes way beyond a flight or hotel nights. Which ship you choose determines your dining and evening entertainment choices for the duration of your vacation. Which itinerary you choose impacts which destinations you'll visit and which shoreside activities will be available to you. It can be overwhelming to evaluate the options on your own if you've never cruised before.

Additionally, cruise fares can be hard to understand and compare. You might, for instance, see a fare listed online without the port charges, taxes and fees that you only see after you give your personal details.

Plus, the price of your cruise includes accommodations, meals, entertainment and activities — and, in some cases, drinks, tips, shore excursions, Wi-Fi and other extras. There's a lot bundled into some fares and not as much with others. A travel agent can help you determine what your cruise fare gets you. The cheapest base cruise fare does not always provide the best value or best overall vacation deal.

Related: 4 scenarios when you should use a travel agent

You aren't just booking general passage on a ship, either, as you will be asked to pick a specific cabin and when you prefer to dine. Making a mistake in these categories can ruin your cruise experience, as there are such things as "bad" cabins and dining times (think: noisy or claustrophobic cabins, dinner at 8 p.m. with cranky children and so on).

With cruises, you typically don't pay for your whole vacation upfront but rather put down a deposit, with the final payment due at a later date. A cruise travel agent can ensure you don't miss any due dates.

Remember, you might be a DIY type when booking airlines and hotels, but booking a cruise is more complex. If you enjoy doing your own research, focus on what to do and see in the ports of call. Read about different ships, cruise lines and itineraries. However, when it comes to booking the cruise, we recommend you still contact a travel agent who specializes in cruises to help you learn a few tips and avoid any rookie mistakes.

Travel agents can get better deals on cruises

If you're concerned that working with an agent will make your cruise more expensive, don't be. Cruise travel agents receive the bulk of their income via commission from the cruise lines. Their service to you is usually free, though some might charge first-time clients a minimal fee. It's worth it.

In addition to sharing their expertise, the agent may have negotiated group space at lower rates with the cruise line, which could save you money on the cruise fare. The agent might also have first access to sale prices because the cruise lines notify their agent partners and loyalty club members first before they announce a sale to the public.

Related: 6 ways to get a deal on a cruise

Some cruise travel agents even throw in booking perks , such as a complimentary bottle of Champagne, awaiting your arrival in your cabin.

How to find a travel agent for a cruise

Cruise lines prefer that you use a travel agent rather than going online and booking directly. They have small in-house reservation teams, and when you have a question while making a booking, good luck in getting an expert on the phone in a timely manner.

Companies such as Royal Caribbean and Carnival Cruise Line provide online directories to help you find an experienced cruise travel agent near you.

You can also find experienced and certified cruise travel agents through Cruise Lines International Association , the industry's main marketing group. Asking friends who have cruised to recommend a travel agent is another good idea.

Related: 5 unexpected places that sell cruises

You might get more personalized care from smaller agencies than from huge online agencies, though websites such as icruise.com, cruise.com and cruise411.com also have experienced cruise agents. These larger online travel agencies can be a good option for those who prefer to make decisions and ask questions via chat. Just make sure you get the name and phone number of the representative for any follow-up questions.

Questions to ask a cruise travel agent

In choosing a cruise travel agent, you will want to tap into the person's specific expertise about the cruise line and ship you are considering. Anyone can read a ship deck plan outlining ship spaces (which you can find online), but you are looking for people who really know their stuff.

Look for travel agencies that are cruise-only or a home-based agent who specializes in cruises. If you are using a full-service travel agency, ask for the cruise desk.

Here are some questions to ask a travel agent to determine their expertise:

• How often do you cruise?
• Have you cruised on the line I am considering?
• Have you cruised on the ship I am considering, or do you have clients who have cruised that ship and provided a review of their vacation?
• Do you have firsthand knowledge about the cruise destination? The itinerary?

You will also want to ask the travel agent if they have a preferred relationship or negotiated agreement with any specific lines that could lead to special perks for you.

Be aware that not all agents work with all cruise lines; some represent only a few preferred suppliers or specialize in higher-end cruises. They get bigger commissions from their preferred lines.

This is not necessarily a bad thing, but be aware if the agent seems to be putting you off the line you were originally considering, as this could be the reason. On the plus side, an agent who is a preferred supplier might have negotiated rates with the cruise line and be able to call in favors, such as that bottle of Champagne or a cabin upgrade .

You should also ask if the travel agency offers 24-hour assistance (usually via an 800 number) in case you have last-minute questions or something goes wrong before or during your trip.

The cruise travel agent should have questions for you, too, to better understand your dream vacation desires. If you are calling a cruise agency for the first time, the agent should be interviewing you as much as you are interviewing him or her. The agent should be focused on helping you choose the cruise line , ship and cabin that is right for you. Making the correct choices is very important to your overall cruise experience.

Bottom line

Booking a cruise is a complex enterprise. A cruise travel agent will guide you through choosing your cabin and dining times, deposits and final payment, and options for shore excursions and specialty dining. If you need to cancel the trip, the agent will also help you through the refund process. You'll have a lot less stress before and during your vacation if you book with an experienced agent.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

• The 5 most desirable cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A beginners guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• Top ways cruisers waste money
• The ultimate guide to choosing a cruise ship cabin

Sporting goods retailer leases San Jose site occupied by high-profile bookstore

A ug. 28—SAN JOSE — A top-notch sporting goods retailer has leased a San Jose space now occupied by a high-profile bookstore, a deal that represents a fresh round of real estate success for a South Bay shopping center.

Sports Basement has leased 86,000 square feet at Almaden Plaza, located at 5353 Almaden Expressway in San Jose, according to commercial real estate broker Jim Fletcher and the sporting goods merchant.

The sporting goods retailer is taking over multiple spaces at Almaden Plaza, notably the existing Barnes & Noble site and an adjacent shuttered location of a former Buy Buy Baby store.

Barnes & Noble is expected to seek a new San Jose store location in the vicinity, according to real estate experts.

Sports Basement sees San Jose as a great opportunity and potentially fertile territory, in the view of Dave Rumberg, a partner at Sports Basement whose duties include guiding the retailer's efforts to find new locations and develop the sites.

"San Jose has always been a target for Sports Basement," Rumberg said. "We believe San Jose, the community and the surrounding area need to have access to Sports Basement."

The upcoming store in San Jose represents an expansion for Sports Basement. The sporting goods retailer operates a store in Campbell at The Pruneyard complex. The Campbell store will remain open.

Sports Basement will occupy a prominent spot within Almaden Plaza, which is a large retail and restaurant hub located near the interchange of State Route 85 and Almaden Expressway.

"This center with its visibility and its location near the freeway is going to be a screaming home run for Sports Basement," said Fletcher, a Bay Area broker who arranged the lease.

The Sports Basement deal represents the third major lease landed by Almaden Plaza in recent months.

Among the recent high-profile rental transactions at Almaden Plaza:

— Hobby Lobby has leased 62,000 square feet of retail space and is busy preparing an upstairs store in a site that once was occupied by failed retailer Bed Bath & Beyond. This will be an expansion for Hobby Lobby.

— Benihana restaurant will take over a 9,500-square-foot dining site that Red Lobster once occupied. Benihana will exit Vallco Mall. Vallco is a mostly demolished ghost mall in Cupertino.

The new sporting goods store should open sometime during the July-through-September third quarter of 2025, according to Sports Basement officials.

The retailer offers a unique approach to sporting goods in that its stores are essentially multiple retail units in one big location.

"Sports Basement is a bunch of small retailers under one big roof," Rumberg said. "Running, triathlon, hiking, skiing, biking."

The retailer's goods and services also overlap with team sports such as football, basketball, baseball and lacrosse.

"Any day you walk into one of our stores, you're going to find staff that is quite accomplished in those areas," Rumberg said.

The retailer seeks to be involved with the community both in terms of serving customers as well as through hiring workers from the local area, Rumberg said.

"Sports Basement really has sought to create a positive presence around the Bay Area," Rumberg said.

The retailer will likely hire 55 to 75 full-time employees for the new San Jose store, he estimated.

Sports Basement hopes to be cost-competitive with its offerings in the ongoing retail battle with Dick's Sporting Goods and REI.

"Prices go up everywhere, but overall we hope that a basket of goods will cost you less at Sports Basement than other places," Rumberg said.

Founded in 1998 with a store in San Francisco, Sports Basement at present operates in 11 Bay Area locations. The San Jose store will be the retailer's 12th.

Sports Basement recently expanded to Southern California for the first time, with a store in Orange County and a store planned for Long Beach.

"We are a community-focused retailer that measures success not only by sales but by how well we serve those communities that we have joined," Rumberg said.

Originally Published: August 28, 2024 at 10:45 a.m.

(c)2024 Silicon Valley, San Jose, Calif. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.

Top Notch Travel Service

73 Bromfield Street, Newburyport, MA

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We recently enjoyed a trip from our bucket list - a river cruise on the Rhine River. Far too many highlights to mention - Lucerne, The Alps, Medieval towns such as Frieburg and Cologne and of course t...

Went on a holiday to Jamaica with my mom with the help of Jennifer Jones who organized our trip. Our vacation was absolutely fabulous and without any issues. This is my second time going on holidays...

We recently came back from our amazing destination wedding. This experience was fantastic all around. Jennifer was attentive to our needs and requests. I highly recommend Jennifer to take your next t...

Ireland had been on our bucket list for years. Once we decided to go, Jenn made it happen for us. Thanks to her guidance and assistance we booked a sightseeing tour with Royal Irish Tours. It was one ...

Jennifer made the experience amazing. I felt like I barely had to do a thing! All trips will be booked through Jennifer from now on!!

Jennifer was very helpful with booking our ladies trip to Cancun. I Know I could have booked my own trip, but felt better going with an agent this time instead. Since it has been 5 years since I last ...

A huge Thank you from the Cassell's for making this trip such a memorable one. Jenn took us through all the steps and helped us navigate hotels, flights, a cruise and then an added hiccup as my husban...

Jenn's knowledge and expertise were invaluable to us as we planned our trip of a lifetime. Driving from Calgary to Vancouver with a list of "must-do" and "must-see" activities, Jenn secured our flight...

Jenn was an invaluable resource to us as we planned our trip of a lifetime. Jenn not only booked flights, hotels, a car, our cruise and transfers. More importantly, Jenn listened to our preferences,...

We found Jennifer through a google search. Out of 5 places I contacted she was the only one to respond with a personalized email. We were able to plan out the perfect vacation for our family. We were ...

Jenn had all the answers for us and all was well set up so no problems occurred even dropped off paperwork at our door . She helped us to navigate around a previous problem with insurance from anothe...

We just returned back from our trip to Grand Sunset Princess, in Maya Rivera Mexico. It was perfect, We would go back to this resort again. The grounds were beautiful, the drinks and food were great....

We booked our family trip for 15 of us fairly last minute for a highly sought after time of year. Jennifer was amazing, she worked late nights and early mornings, always responding to my emails, text...

I have known Jenn for many years. I was excited when she decided to become a travel agent, as I did not feel safe when booking trips on my own through a website. So having Jenn help with all the detai...

We used Jennifer because the other people in our group were using her. We have not used an agent in many years. It was so nice to have an agent to do all the work. She showed up to my door with our tr...

I found out about Jennifer Jones on Facebook, everyone spoke highly of her, so I decided to try her out. I wanted someone local. I was not disappointed at all. I would highly recommend her she m...

Met Jennifer at an event in Georgina last year and expressed our interest in going on a trip, she took care of everything, answered all of our questions and honestly just made the trip stress free! De...

Jennifer was referred to us from a close friend and existing client. She was a professional from first contact and willing to provide as much assistance as needed. We booked many months in advance and...

We met Jennifer at a small event in our town over the summer, and mentioned we'd been planning to take a trip in the fall, likely in the southern US (for warmth). She chatted with us at the event, mad...

Las Vegas was the most exciting memorable trip. The Fairfield Inn in Toronto was just perfect with free shuttle to airport. Paris hotel was great place to stay. Right on the las Vegas strip and ha...

My family and I have the most comfortable relaxing fun trip. Everything was easy everything had been done for us all we had to do was go and 😊 Jenn was there to answer all my questions and prepare f...

This is the first time I have used a travel agent to book our family cruise and I am so glad I did. With the current conditions in the world and the number of people we were booking for (10). Jennif...

A friend referred Jennifer to me as they had a great experience with her and I have to say I did too. I was travelling last minute and with the changing COVID landscape Jennifer was able to navigate ...

Not only would I recommend this destination I would recommend Jennifers services I used to book my own trips but the issue was if something went wrong 😑 I have complete confidence in Jennifer and sh...

As a Christmas gift we promised our family a trip to Disneyworld and Jennifer handled our flights, vehicle, and insurance requirements. Extremely helpful, providing us with a Disney agent to arrange ...

My wife and I just got back from our trip to the Ocean Maya Royale, in Maya Rivera Mexico. We had a wonderful time and would go back to this resort again. The staff, the resort, the food and enterta...

Jennifer was outstanding. We had a complicated request with multiple people coming and going from the resort at different times/dates/switching rooms, and Jennifer made it all happen at a great speed ...

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Top Notch Travel Agency

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921 Wrights Creek Way

Wake Forest, NC 27587

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I do not recommend Natalie, owner of Top Notch Travel. She took advantage of my friend, a senior travelling alone and counting on Natalie to make the correct arrangements, guide her on what she would need to travel during this pandemic, etc. My friend was turned away at the airport for not having the proper documentation. She then paid $250 for a COVID test only to find out that was not the issue. Her hotel reservations were made on the French side of St. Marteen, when she asked for the Dutch side. As a senior travelling alone, she was sent to a COUPLES resort...REALLY??? Not only did Natalie take no responsibility for misguiding her client, but she had the audacity to call my friend "narcissistic". Rude, unprofessional, inept.

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Top Travel Agencies in the USA: Leading Choices for Your Trips

Discover the best travel agencies in the usa to make your next adventure unforgettable.

The travel industry is an ever-evolving landscape, and finding the best travel agency in the USA can be a daunting task for both seasoned and first-time travelers. From planning family vacations to organizing corporate trips, travel agencies cater to a wide range of needs and preferences. In this comprehensive guide, we have compiled a list of the top travel agencies in the USA, taking into account factors such as customer service, value for money, and the range of services offered. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious getaway or an adventurous excursion, you’ll find the perfect travel partner in this list.

1. One Nation Travel

Onenationtravel.com , an esteemed travel agency with offices in Princeton, New Jersey, Toronto, and Istanbul, Turkey, specializes in offering top-notch tours to destinations like Turkey , Greece , Egypt , Jordan , Morocco , Thailand , Vietnam , and more. Known for creating unique and unforgettable experiences, One Nation Travel provides a personalized approach, meticulous attention to detail, and strong connections with local communities. By catering to various preferences and budgets through an extensive selection of tailor-made tours and vacation packages, they ensure that every traveler can discover the captivating allure of these remarkable destinations.

2. American Express Travel

As a subsidiary of the world-renowned financial institution, American Express Travel offers top-notch travel planning services, especially for its cardholders. They provide personalized travel experiences, including access to exclusive deals, rewards points, and premium customer service. Their travel consultants are well-versed in designing unique itineraries, making American Express Travel a preferred choice for luxury and corporate travelers.

3. Liberty Travel

With over 65 years of experience, Liberty Travel is one of the oldest and most trusted travel agencies in the USA. They specialize in creating customized vacation packages, from romantic getaways to family adventures. Their team of experienced travel consultants ensures a seamless and stress-free travel experience, from booking flights and accommodations to arranging guided tours and activities.

4. Travel Leaders Group

Travel Leaders Group is a network of over 6,000 travel agencies, offering a wide range of services, from leisure and corporate travel to luxury cruises and adventure tours. Their extensive network allows them to provide personalized and tailor-made experiences for every traveler. With a strong focus on customer service and satisfaction, Travel Leaders Group is a reliable option for travelers who want a hassle-free and enjoyable journey.

5. AAA Travel

AAA Travel, a division of the American Automobile Association, offers travel services to its millions of members across the United States. They provide a variety of travel planning resources, including trip-planning tools, exclusive discounts, and member benefits. AAA Travel is an excellent choice for travelers seeking a reliable agency with a well-established reputation and the added advantage of roadside assistance.

6. Virtuoso

Virtuoso is a luxury travel network that connects travelers with a global network of top-tier travel agencies, hotels, tour operators, and cruise lines. They specialize in creating bespoke travel experiences, from high-end accommodations to exclusive access to events and experiences. Their experienced travel advisors can curate personalized itineraries, making Virtuoso the go-to choice for luxury travelers.

7. G Adventures

For travelers seeking an adventure-packed vacation, G Adventures is a leading choice. They offer small group tours, safaris, and expeditions to over 100 countries, focusing on responsible and sustainable travel. With a commitment to supporting local communities, G Adventures provides authentic, immersive experiences that allow travelers to connect with local cultures and environments.

Top Experiences & Tours in the USA

1. Grand Canyon West Tour with Hoover Dam Stop and Optional Skywalk : Experience the breathtaking beauty of the Grand Canyon West Rim, including a visit to the iconic Hoover Dam and the thrilling option to walk the Skywalk.

2. Chicago Architecture River Cruise : Marvel at Chicago’s stunning architecture from the unique vantage point of a river cruise, an immersive way to experience the city’s renowned skyline.

3. Grand Circle Island and Haleiwa 9 Hour Tour : Embark on a comprehensive tour of Oahu’s stunning landscapes, from its lush valleys to its pristine beaches, culminating in a visit to the charming town of Haleiwa.

4. New York in One Day Guided Sightseeing Tour : Discover the essence of New York City in a day, with guided visits to its most iconic landmarks, including Times Square, Central Park, and more.

5. Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island Tour : Explore the rich history and enduring symbol of freedom with a tour of the Statue of Liberty and the immigrant gateway of Ellis Island.

6. New Orleans Ghost, Voodoo, and Vampire Walking Tour : Delve into the mysterious and eerie side of New Orleans with a tour that explores its famous legends of ghosts, voodoo, and vampires.

Journey’s End:

Selecting the ideal travel agency for you will depend on your unique needs, preferences, and budget. This comprehensive guide showcases some of the top travel agencies in the USA, each offering a distinct set of services and experiences. Whether you’re planning a luxurious retreat, a family vacation, or an adventure-filled getaway, these agencies can assist you in crafting the perfect itinerary while providing exceptional customer service throughout your journey. From the culturally rich tours offered by One Nation Travel, which is known for its regional presence and offices in various locations, to the bespoke luxury experiences of Virtuoso, this list caters to every type of traveler. Before making a decision, take into account your travel goals, desired level of customization, and the overall value provided by each agency. By conducting thorough research and consulting with travel experts, you can ensure a seamless and unforgettable travel experience that meets your dreams and expectations.

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All road trips from Yaroslavl

• Yaroslavl to Moscow drive
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• Yaroslavl to Oslo drive
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• Yaroslavl to Hamburg drive
• Yaroslavl to Vilnius drive
• Yaroslavl to Bruges drive
• Yaroslavl to Suzdal drive
• Yaroslavl to Kyiv drive
• Yaroslavl to Kazan drive
• Yaroslavl to Salzburg drive
• Yaroslavl to Cologne drive
• Yaroslavl to Pereslavl-Zalessky drive
• Yaroslavl to Bratislava drive

Explore nearby places

• Krasnyy Bor
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• Gavrilov-Yam
• Semibratovo
• Borisoglebsky
• Strelnikovo

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• Map of Velikoye
• Map of Rybnitsy
• Map of Tutayev
• Map of Vyatskoye
• Map of Krasnyy Profintern
• Map of Gavrilov-Yam
• Map of Semibratovo
• Map of Lavrovo
• Map of Dubki
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Yaroslavl throughout the year

• Yaroslavl in January
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• Yaroslavl in May
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• Yaroslavl in July
• Yaroslavl in August
• Yaroslavl in September
• Yaroslavl in October
• Yaroslavl in November
• Yaroslavl in December

Looking for day-by-day itineraries in Yaroslavl?

Get inspired for your trip to Yaroslavl with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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Best places to eat in nearby cities

• The best places to eat in Moscow
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• Top things to do and attractions in Nizhny Novgorod
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• Top things to do and attractions in Khimki
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• Top things to do and attractions in Ples

Best restaurants in nearby cities

• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Nizhny Novgorod
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Tver
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Kostroma
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Ivanovo
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Kolomna
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Suzdal
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Mytishchi
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Dmitrov
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Sergiyev Posad
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Serpukhov
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Torzhok
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Rybinsk
• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Cherepovets
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Yaroslavl, Russia

You are here, about yaroslavl.

Yaroslavl is a town of unsurpassed beauty. Everywhere is The Volga , and everywhere in history. The city is over 1000 years old and was founded by Yaroslav, the son of Russia’s first Christian grand prince Vladimir the Great. Yaroslav landed here in 1010 to suppress a hostile pagan tribe that raided passing merchants.

In defense, the tribe released their secret weapon, a sacred bear with a taste for human warriors. Yaroslav later called “Yaroslav the Wise,” merely grabbed an ax and dropped it with one blow. As a result, the city's coat of arms today features a bear carrying an ax.

At first, the city served as an outpost of the principality of Veliky Rostov, a river port further down the Volga. Later it became a separate state, a vassal under the pre-Mongol Russian grand principality in 1218. And after Kiev was sacked in 1242, Yaroslavl grew rapidly in importance. Eventually, Yaroslavl became Russia’s political, economic, cultural, and technological center.

Reasons to travel to Yaroslavl

Despite all the raids, most of the city’s great sights remained almost untouched. Set securely in a triangle defined in part by the junction of the Kotorosl and the Volga rivers. This is where visitors will find the most picturesque of the city’s monuments: the Church of Ilya (or Elijah) the Prophet, the Church of the Archangel Michael, and the Alexander Nevsky Chapel.

Another important cultural treasure is the art gallery, set in the old Governor’s Building, that holds a collection of over 60,000 icons, masterpieces of visual arts, sculpture, and handicrafts, some dating as far back as the 13th century.

What is more the mid-sized city of 600,000 also takes pride in giving birth to many famous sons and daughters, among the most renown of which is the world’s first woman to go to space - Valentina Tereshkova.

Everything said above is a nice ground for your upcoming Yaroslavl trip which will definitely leave you with truly memorable impressions.

Best Things to Do in Yaroslavl

• Explore the amazing monasteries and churches of charming Yaroslavl
• Have a stroll along the Volga River promenade
• Enjoy a visit to a large Yaroslavle zoo

Top Attractions in Yaroslavl

Founded in 862, fabulous Rostov the Great or Rostov Veliky (do not confuse it with Rostov-on-Don) is situated on the shores of the sparkling Lake Nero and is known as a tourist center of the famous Golden Ring itinerary.

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