Booking through hotel website/ Expedia vs TA when traveling in Rome
 

I was hoping not to use a travel agent and either booking
Directly through the hotel website. I have also seen some
Great rates on Expedia.

This will be my first time in Europe and I'm just curious about other's experiences planning on their own vs booking with a tour company or travel Agent.

I think which method you use to book depends on priorities. If the lowest price is your priority then the online agencies might be the best for you. But especially among smaller hotels I think it can be beneficial to have a relationship with the management right from the beginning by booking directly. And in my experience, if any changes need to be made later before arrival having dealt directly can be very beneficial in the kind of cooperation you receive. My preference is to book directly if possible.

Booking directly is your best bet. Sometimes hotels lose bookings made by travel consolidators, especially abroad.

Tour company: I don't use them.
Travel agent: I don't use them. They stick to the ones that give commissions, not necessary what I want.

I book directly as well as use booking sites. I don't automatically use any one method.

Small family run places are not always listed in booking engines. In this case, booking direct is the only way.

If there are choices, there are pros and cons. Price is just one factor. They often differ in several other aspects. Booking engines might not offer all the hotel offerings. However, the booking engines might offer better cancellation terms than going direct. For small places, booking directly involves sending CC info without use of SSL encryption support. Sending all the CC info in one email is risky.

Why not book directly---you become their customer.

If you use an online booking agency,e very careful about cancellation policies.You may be offered a lower price for an 'unrefundable' booking.Watch out !!