Entitled to Fees
Although Christopher Reynolds’ Travel Insider about European hotel bookings (Oct. 26) made some very valid points, I was dismayed by its underlying message, which was: “Travel agents and booking consolidators are stealing your money!”
My company does nothing but book accommodations and activities in Italy. Each client booking we do involves at least an hour of work on our part--often more, including invaluable information such as how to get from point to point, what’s a great nearby restaurant and so on. We “rake in” a whopping $20 to $30 per hotel night for these services (charged to the hotel when possible).
Would I dream of vilifying my hairdresser for charging to wash my hair? Why is it, then, that travel agents are expected to donate their time to the public?
KRISTIN JARRATT, partner
Words in Pictures
Los Angeles
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