matt

I am looking for advice on whether booking on the net is good alternative to going down to my local travel agent. Why would I use the internet, and what should I be looking for in a web-site if I do decide to book? <BR> <BR>Thanks <BR>Newbie <BR>

elaine

Matt, <BR> <BR>Am unclear what you are asking... Checking via internet is good idea for 'pricing'(you should get some cruise brochures to see the different categories for your cabin as the price will vary depending on what type acccommodation you prefer)...also checking cruise line sites gives some 'barometer' as to whether or not you are getting a good value. There are also good websites that do advertise. I have often phoned an 800# just to get a quote as a double-check. I would make certain your travel agent books lots of cruises. This is impt. since the agents/cruise specialists who do 'high volume' specifically w/cruises, usually give much lower quotes. Personally, I would not book my cruise via internet...but I sure would explore the prices. <BR>Hope this helps.

Amy

We have booked several cruises and air package travel through the NET. The agency we use is American Express affiliated so it gave us a feeling of "security". This is a "real" office not just a website..here's the address: <BR> <BR>http://www.travelunlimited.com

Denise

Internet agencies can be the same as your local agency. The only difference is your communicating via e-mail, fax or telephone. <BR> <BR>For example, my office is just like most others. We're a local agency that has local client's. In 1996 my manager thought we should start a web-site on the internet. Since that time we have had many clients book from all over the world to go on cruises. The advantage of them booking through us is price and service. <BR> <BR>The advantage to booking on the internet is finding agencies that do big volumn with many of the cruise lines and give you better prices because of it. The disadvantage to booking on the internet is some agencies don't give you service and some are a scam. <BR> <BR>Before booking with any agency you should ask if they are CLIA and or IATA members. Asking for proof can be a good idea too! <BR> <BR>Denise Blackmore <BR>CruiseShipCenters <BR>http://www.cruise-the-world.com

Gary

Matt: <BR> <BR>I recently booked a Christmas cruise on Carnival through a net agency (www.cruisesonly.com) and had good luck. The price was much better than I was quoted directly by Carnival, and was the best of several places I checked through the net. I think if you are booking early, the heavy discounts given directly by the cruise lines may be better, but at later dates (I was about 7 weeks from cruise date) net seems good. <BR>

Hilary

I booked my cruise through a local agency and thought I got a good deal, until I checked with a couple of on-line cruise agencies. Of the 3 who gave me quotes, 1 was about what I was booked at, 1 was about $100 less, and the 3rd was over $500 less per person!! Needless to say, we cancelled the original booking and rebooked with the online TA and saved over $1000 on our trip. <BR> <BR>I've talked with my new TA on the phone numerous times and she's been wonderful about giving me tips and advice, and has even been on the exact cruise we're going on. <BR> <BR>The best advice I can give about using an on-line TA is this: 1) Do your own homework and have your cruise narrowed down to 2-3. 2) Check the company out by calling the BBB and/or making sure they are affiliated with the CLIA. 3) You might post who the on-line company is on a bulletin board and ask people for feedback and experiences. 4) Get several quotes and know your prices before booking, and 5) Call the cruiseline and ask what their direct prices are and if they are running any promotions. <BR> <BR>I would be happy to share my agent's name and her company if you are interested. Just send me a private e-mail as advertising is not permitted on Fodor's.