Online Travel Agents or OTA’s today have spoilt clients for choices with so much of options and deals just a click away and its threatening the TOUR OPERATOR business today.
BUT are OTA’s a better option than TOUR OPERATORS? ……………Let’s analyze.
- An OTA gives you all the deals in a destination BUT a TOUR OPERATOR is a destination specialist who gives you the best deal based on your requirement.
- An OTA gives you what the service provider can offer BUT a TOUR OPERATOR can give many an experience which may not be available anywhere online.
- An OTA gives you all the possible information about a destination with best of photos and video BUT a TOUR OPERATOR gives you specific first hand up to date information that you need.
- An OTA gives you multiple holiday options for a destination which is general to all BUT a TOUR OPERATOR gives you a customized holiday option.
- An OTA is a brand with huge marketing and branding budgets giving offers and deals using technology and automation BUT a TOUR OPERATOR is a human interface referred through a friend of colleague who extends you a referral discount and the best possible deal.
- An OTA can be reached only through the call centre when you need them and it’s an annoying process , website or a mobile app BUT a TOUR OPERATOR is just a phone call/email away ever ready to serve you.
- An OTA gives you booking options against instant payment BUT a TOUR OPERATOR can give you multiple payment options with a breathing space to pay.
- An OTA requires inputs each time you book a holiday BUT a TOUR OPERATOR knows the requirements of a client once you book with them.
- An OTA can help you book hotels, transport, airlines, bus, train ticket and activities and the buck stops there BUT a TOUR OPERATOR can give you all these and much more besides personalized ground level services anywhere you travel.
- For the money power the OTA’s unleash and spend, they are looking at exponential growth of numbers on an hourly basis and a TOUR OPERATORS are no match on the money front and are not looking at an unbelievable growth either BUT the TOUR OPERATORS are focused onto enhancing guest experiences and coming out with new products.
Only time will tell the logic behind using technology and others money to garner a bigger market share will ever turn the OTA’s profitable. Facts above give you a clear insight to make an informed decision of your own and take your pick.
Beware – do not fall prey to unscrupulous Tour operators. Look out for Government recognized operators only. Government Recognition is a sign of Safety, Security and Assurance of quality. Use the services of Tour Operators who are recognized for Guarantee of service and delivery.
Interesting informative links
FAQ’s on Kerala Tour Package
FAQ’s on Kerala Houseboats
You may subscribe to our YouTube Channel “Tour with Shailesh” for informative tourism videos
You may refer the Official Kerala Tourism portal for more information.