Simple answer - they are. And what has emerged from the profession is a new breed of Advisor
Why do Travel Advisors still exist today? With the internet we can do everything online. A consumer can research and book directly with a supplier so why do they still use Travel Advisors?
Simple we've evolved and gotten more useful - just like the phones we use.
The Travel Professional today is most likely to be:
An independent self employed individual.
On their second or third career.
Well connected both through personal relationships and via social media.
Has a well defined expertise in travel. (Adventure, Health, Luxury, Family, Africa, Golf, Single, Escorted, Wine, Quilting, Opera, Jazz, Cycling, Food,....)
Has a client base that spans the Globe and knows them intimately.
Well travelled.
Has a passion for writing, blogging, posting, or just talking about their experiences in travel.
Is fun to be around.
For examples of the areas of expertise the Advisor of today can focus on check out https://www.canadiantravelagents.ca/
Gone are the days of "Booking" - now we consult, research, and suggest.
How do Advisors make money - I thought airlines stopped paying commissions?
Yeah they did on economy tickets but most other elements to travel still pay commissions knowing that the Advisor of today provides invaluable support. Hotels, Cruise, Car Rental, Transfers, All Inclusive Packages, Tours, and shushhh even websites like Expedia pay commissions to Agencies. Agents can also rely on adding service fees if arranging a complex trip that requires extra time and attention. Almost every supplier either pays a commission to an Agency of 8 - 15% or provides a "net" rate that allows you to earn money on a sale. You can also generate income when selling group travel but we'll save that for another post.
Just like how Travel Advisors have evolved, so has the Travel Agency.
Gone are the days where people walk into an agency. We now have offices and employ support personnel remotely. We have IVR systems, back office data management technology, web development teams, social media support, and training departments.
Welcome to the new era of Travel Advisors!