by Kris Zelunka

Created on: January 25, 2008

I think that the original role of travel agents is becoming obsolete, but this doesn't mean that the job itself has become redundant. Rather, the role has changed dramatically with the introduction of the internet. Face to face customer service is no longer the cornerstone of a travel agent's business. Instead, things have moved online, changing the job description for travel agents.

Most people no longer have the time to sit down with a travel agent to arrange their next trip, whether it's for business or leisure. Instead, they simply want to find the best deal and book online. This means that instead of talking to customers, more and more travel agents are now setting up and running online travel websites.

They are still required to find the best deals, but instead of discussing this with their customers, the deals are posted on the website. This way, the customer can book directly online if they're happy with the deal they find. If they're after something different, communication tends to now be via email, or over the phone.

Of course, people still want information that traditional travel agents used to supply, but they want it in a format that is quick and easy, so travel agents are now more likely to review or blog about their experiences, rather than speak to a customer directly.

For those that have the 'gift of the gab', but are not quite as talented in the writing department, this has made their job more difficult. However, if it's an industry that you love, you learn to adapt, and work with what society wants.

There are still some traditional travel agents working, and fighting, to keep their businesses alive. And for the moment, there are still enough people in the world not comfortable booking online to keep their businesses afloat. However, as the next generation become the major holiday bookers, it will become more and more difficult for a traditional travel agent businesses to remain as they are.

Technology has made it easier for people to find exactly the sort of trip they are looking for, without needing to necessarily discuss it with a third person. There will always be a need for travel agents, it's just that this term no longer represents the role that travel agents used to fulfill.

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