FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

A travel agency is a business that provides services to help people plan and book their travel arrangements, such as flights, hotels, rental cars, cruises, and other vacation packages. The main functions of a travel agency include:

Researching and finding the best travel options based on the customer’s preferences and budget.

Booking and reserving flights, hotels, rental cars, and other travel components.

Providing advice and recommendations on destinations, accommodations, activities, and transportation.

Handling travel planning and logistics on behalf of the customer.

Offering package deals and discounts that may not be available through direct booking.

Providing information on visa, passport, and other travel documentation requirements.

Offering additional services like travel insurance and customer support.

Travel agencies play an important role in the tourism industry by helping travelers save time, money, and hassle when planning and booking their trips. They have access to a wide range of travel suppliers and can leverage their relationships to get competitive rates and exclusive offers for their clients.

In the travel industry, the terminology has evolved from ‘travel agent’ to ‘travel advisor,’ reflecting a more comprehensive professional role. While these terms are often used synonymously, the shift represents a deliberate rebranding effort. Ermisch Travel of Battle Creek, Inc. has been around since 1927 and we use the terms to mean the same thing because we’ve always provided a comprehensive service.

The industry’s intentional change aims to highlight the expanded scope of services provided by travel professionals, who do much more than simply book tickets and accommodations. The new title, ‘travel advisor,’ emphasizes the consultative and strategic nature of our work, underscoring our expertise in crafting personalized travel experiences beyond transactional services.

Working with a travel agent offers several benefits, including:

Expertise and Experience: Our agents have in-depth knowledge of destinations, accommodations, and travel regulations, helping you make informed decisions.

Personalized Service: We can tailor travel plans to fit your specific needs, preferences, and budget, ensuring a customized experience.

Time-Saving: We can handle the research, planning, and booking processes, saving you significant time and effort.

Access to Deals: We often have access to exclusive deals, discounts, and packages that are not available to the general public.

Problem Solving: In case of unexpected issues like cancellations or changes, we can provide quick solutions and assistance.

Vacation Packages: We offer complete vacation packages, which can include flights, hotels, and activities, making planning more straightforward.

Local Insights: We can provide insider tips and recommendations on things to do, places to eat, and hidden gems at your destination.

Stress Reduction: With us managing the details, you can enjoy peace of mind and focus on enjoying your trip, rather than worrying about logistics.

Support for Complex Itineraries: For trips involving multiple destinations or various modes of transport, we can streamline the coordination.

After-Sales Service: We can offer assistance even after the trip is booked, helping with any changes or issues that arise.

Overall, using a travel agent can enhance your travel experience by combining convenience, expertise, and personalized service.

We provide a one-stop-shop for all your travel needs, whether you’re planning a simple domestic trip or a complex international vacation.  We provide a wide range of travel services, including:

Airline Tickets: domestic and international flights. First-class, business, and economy class tickets. Airline loyalty programs and rewards.

Hotel Bookings: hotels, resorts, vacation rentals, and vacation packages. All-inclusive resorts. Luxury and boutique accommodations.

Package Vacations: pre-designed vacation packages with airfare, hotels, and activities. Customizable package deals.

Cruises, Tours, and multi-destination trips

Car Rentals: rental cars at destinations worldwide. Arranging transportation for airport transfers and sightseeing.

Visa and Passport Assistance: We can offer some assistance with visa and passport matters, but our role is limited to guidance and information. We don’t handle any application processes directly.

Our Areas of Focus Include:

Leisure Travel: This includes vacations, family trips, honeymoons, and group tours. Our agents can help you find the perfect destination, accommodations, activities, and transportation for your vacation needs.

Business Travel: We can handle all aspects of business trips, including booking flights, hotels, rental cars, and meeting rooms.

Adventure Travel: For those seeking thrill and excitement, our agents can help plan adventure trips, such as safaris, trekking expeditions, and whitewater rafting.

Cruises: We specialize in cruise bookings, providing a range of options from luxury liners to budget-friendly cruises. They can assist with choosing itineraries, cabins, and shore excursions.

Tours: We also specialize in tour bookings, with packages that include transportation, accommodations, and activities over several days. These tend to be escorted tours with a dedicated guide for the duration of the trip.

Destination Weddings: Planning a destination wedding can be overwhelming. We can help with everything from venue selection to booking flights and accommodations for guests.

Group Travel: Our agents are experienced in organizing group trips for families, friends, or corporate events. They can handle all aspects of the trip, including transportation, accommodation, and activities.

Cultural and Heritage Travel: Trips designed to immerse travelers in local cultures, historical sites, and unique experiences.

Eco-Tourism: Travel that focuses on sustainability and nature, including wildlife tours and conservation-focused trips.

Luxury Travel: High-end travel experiences with exclusive services, amenities, and unique accommodations, such as private villas or boutique hotels.

Wellness Travel: Focused on health and wellness, these trips can include retreats, spa vacations, and fitness-focused getaways.

To get the most out of working with a travel agent, consider these tips. By following these tips, you can build a strong partnership with your travel agent, best ensuring a smooth and memorable trip.

Communicate Your Needs: Tell your agent about your travel style, budget, interests, and must-haves. Are you looking for a relaxing beach vacation, a cultural immersion, or an adventurous trip?

Provide Details: Share specific dates, destinations, activities, and accommodation preferences. The more detailed your information, the better the agent can tailor your trip.

Explore Destinations: Have an idea of where you want to go. This will help your agent focus their recommendations and provide more relevant options.

Look for Inspiration: Browse travel websites, magazines, and social media for ideas and inspiration.

Trust Their Expertise: Travel agents have extensive knowledge of destinations and travel options. Be open to their suggestions and recommendations.

Ask Questions: Don’t hesitate to ask questions about different destinations, hotels, tours, or anything else you’re curious about.

Share Your Preferences: During the planning process, provide feedback on the suggestions your agent offers.

Express Your Concerns: If you have any doubts or concerns, communicate them to your agent.

Stay in Touch: Communicate with your agent throughout the planning process. Ask questions, clarify details, and update them on any changes.

Review Documents: Carefully review all travel documents (flights, hotel confirmations, tour itineraries) before your trip.

Relax and Delegate: Let your travel agent handle the details, allowing you to focus on the excitement of planning your trip.

Embrace the Adventure: Working with a travel agent can make your trip more enjoyable and hassle-free, so relax and embrace the adventure.