Making the Most of Travel Agencies in California

California travel agencies that go above and beyond your basic business needs
By Lisa Maloney If you're local to California or planning to visit there, having a California travel agent helps ensure that you'll get the best deals along with the best local insider information. Travel agents in California are likely to have local connections that national mega-chains don't, and will be able to bring you up to speed on everything from detailed airport information to local weather conditions.

Understanding the potential benefits of California travel agents doesn't mean that you should compromise on your expectations for professional service and sterling travel deals. California travel agencies have access to the same tools as those in other states, and many of them specialize in providing business or corporate travel services. Some simple steps toward making the most of travel agencies in California include:

1. Make a local connection with nationwide chains--become a face instead of just a customer number.

2. Use small, localized CA travel agencies to make sure you're not missing out on any local perks or attractions.

3. Deal with travel agencies in California that specialize in business and corporate travel.

Use a California travel agency that spans the nation

When you're looking for the right travel agency, California may be your starting place but you're sure to travel to other destinations at some point. Networking with large travel agencies that have a presence in multiple major cities--or with a network of small, independent travel agencies that span the nation--lets you enjoy the benefits of locally based businesses that offer quick, personal service and familiarity with local attractions and amenities, no matter where you happen to be.
Try:  Tripology gives you a way of connecting with dozens of California-based travel agencies, and details how they may best serve you. Travel Leaders is a nationwide network of over 500 travel agencies, including 28 in California, that lets you get local service with nationwide connections.

Find travel agencies in CA that know the lay of the local landscape

Dealing with localized travel agencies--that specialize in customizing your trip to a specific city or region--lets you know you're getting the best information on local attractions, detailed information on your airport of arrival and connections to small, family-owned local businesses. You're also more likely to receive recommendations for shopping, eating and other local concessions, as well as coupons and discounts through partnerships with local businesses.
Try:  About Our Town is an example of a travel agency that specializes in serving the Los Angeles area and southern California. Before you deal with a small local operation, be sure to read up on the American Society of Travel Agents list of common consumer complaints against travel agencies and how to avoid them.

Travel with corporate-savvy California travel agents

Travel agents in California that are specially trained to handle corporate clients can help you to establish--and stick to--a travel and expenses plan. Not only do they help to formulate and implement a plan, they are also in the perfect position to monitor and document compliance to the details of your travel and recreation expenses plan.
Try:  Essortment provides useful tips on how to choose a travel agency to serve your small business. Montrose Travel, a family-owned business and the largest certified Women's Business Enterprise in southern California, is your source for corporate travel agents in southern California.

• If you're concerned about the credibility of small travel agencies in CA, look for testimonials or reviews on the Internet; ask for references or inquire with the Better Business Bureau and the American Society of Travel Agents.