Using a Travel Agency to Go to NYC: Pros and Cons
Using a travel agency can be a good way to explore a new place. But is it the best option for travel to NYC?
We look at the pros and cons of using a travel agency to go to New York. Below, we consider price, experience, personalization, safety, availability, and authenticity.
#1: Price
Pros: Travel agents have relationships with airlines, hotels, and tour groups. That means they can—in theory—get you a good price.
Cons: Agents work on commission. They earn this commission by encouraging travelers to use airlines, hotels, and tour groups which they have relationships with. So the good deal they offer might not be that good at all—an important consideration for budget travelers to NYC.
Ideally, you’ll work with trip planners who aren’t paid on commission.
#2: Experience
Pros: A travel agent plans trips for a living. That means they’re a pro. They’ll help you learn about all the top places to visit in NYC.
Cons: A travel agent may know a lot about NYC—but they probably don’t live there.
You can’t beat local knowledge. When you have a local plan your trip, you’ll get an itinerary based on their personal experience and knowledge. They’ll share how to use the subway, which NYC attractions locals love, and their best tips for keeping your NYC trip under budget.
#3: Personalization
Pros: With a travel agent, you’ll have some room to personalize your trip. They’ll let you pick from a curated list of activities.
Cons: Since your agent depends on their network, your options will be limited. If you’re looking to visit places in NYC that are off the beaten path, then an agent might not be the best fit.
#4: Safety
Pros: Travel agents will make your trip as low-risk as possible.
Cons: Generally, New York City is safe. It’s a big city, but a safe one. So you don’t necessarily need the extra security of working with a travel agent (or the extra cost). A local living in NYC can let you know how they navigate the city safely.
#5: Availability
Pros: As they plan your trip, travel agents will be available to answer your questions about NYC. They’ll help you decide where to stay, when to visit, and what activities to do.
Cons: Once you arrive in NYC, you may find that your travel agent is harder to reach. When you work with a local, you know they’re nearby—and that they can help out via phone if you run into any issues.
Plus, local trip planners can design a flexible guidebook. That means that you won’t be left scrambling if an unforeseen circumstance impacts your itinerary.
#6: Authenticity
Pros: If your travel agent is an expert on all things NYC, they’ll let you know about the popular places to visit in New York..
Cons: If you’re hoping for an itinerary that’s less about Times Square and more about NYC’s hidden gems, a travel agent might not be the best bet. Nothing can replace local knowledge.
Conclusion: Have a local plan your trip
See New York City like a local—not a tourist—by having a local plan your trip.
Not only will you see a side of NYC that most visitors miss, but you’ll save time and money in the planning process.
Ready to get started?