[oaburke]

I booked through Expedia, showed up at the hotel and they didn't have me registered. I called Expedia and they said they simply book the room and that the only thing they could do is re-book me!!

• What travel website will handle my travel problems if any should come up?

[Chrissy Scivicque]

I don't have personal experience with it, but Travelocity advertises that they have customer service support for things exactly like what you described. Again, no personal experience - I'm just listening to the roaming gnome.

[Toni Breeden]

Ah yes, travel sites...what's that phrase? Fool me once... I have booked business trips for my boss in which they charge his card in advance only for him to have issues with his reservation upon arrival. If you are working with a generous budget, my advice is to go directly through the hotel to book your reservations, as there are no loopholes or third parties to deal with. If working with a more modest budget, be certain to print ALL confirmations and/or receipts to ensure you are not charged twice or out a room. If there happens to be a discrepancy upon arrival, just keep in mind the motto of most upstanding businesses: "The customer is always right" and remember to stick to your guns. Hope this helps and safe travels!

[galfriday]

Whenever I book hotels through Expedia or Travelocity, I always call the hotel a day later to make sure they have the reservation on file. I give 24 hours so that the hotel has time to actually receive the reservation from the third party reservation company. I'm big on confirming...everything. The 3 minute phone call to confirm is a lot easier to deal with than the call from your executive saying "I have a problem."

[cbp360]

After a couple of years of using on-line services and having several bad experiences, I decided the extra cost of a travel agent would maintain my sanity and that of my bosses. I interviewed several agencies and chose one that has strong business travel experience and is close to our office. We are charged $45 per ticket but there are no mistakes and no frayed nerves.

[oaburke]

I should have just hired a travel agent. Especially at $45/ticket. That's a good deal. It's hard to be focused on the travel part. I needed someone who cared about my travel plans more than I did because I was focused on the work I had to do when I got to my destination. I'm with you 'pump - hire a travel agent. My nerves are worth $45 a ticket.

[dgallagher]

I have found that the hotels own hotel reservation site has been very competitive when offering room rates and a lot of times they are just the same as the travel web sites, and you receive a confirmation number directly from the hotel for your reservation via email.

I have a bit of experience on both sides. I am a certified travel agent (but not practicing currently), so I know what sort of access agents have to service providers. Agents work hard to make sure your travel experience is seamless, with no stress.
On the flip side, I am currently running a small virtual assistance business, providing extensive travel planning services. I book some things directly with the service provider, and some things with an agent. I do not have the unlimited access that I did as an agent, and I often use sights like Expedia and Travelocity.
I have found that working with an agent is very beneficial, and I prefer it. It may cost a little more initially, but it can save a lot of time and stress in the long run. Especially when changes need to made to itineraries, or if there is a flight cancellation, etc.

[bboukma]

I use booking.com for making my own arrangements... They seem reliable. I like doing the research and making my own travel arrangements... It is a little bit of work but, at least if I make a mistake I know who to blame!!