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There isn’t a universally agreed-upon reason to completely stop using Expedia and Snap Travel, as they can be useful in certain situations. However, there are some common drawbacks and alternative approaches to consider:
Potential Downsides of Using Online Travel Agencies (OTAs) like Expedia and Snap Travel:
- Customer Service: Dealing with customer service for issues like cancellations or changes can be more complicated when booking through an OTA. You might have to contact both the OTA and the hotel/airline, leading to potential confusion and delays.
- Lack of Control: You might have less flexibility with changes or special requests compared to booking directly.
- Potential Hidden Fees: Be sure to carefully review all fees and conditions before booking, as some OTAs might have hidden charges.
- Loyalty Programs: You might miss out on earning points or benefits with hotel or airline loyalty programs when booking through an OTA.
- Price Matching Can Be Tricky: While some OTAs offer price matching, the conditions can be complex, making it difficult to actually claim the benefit.
Why Some People Recommend Booking Directly:
- Better Customer Service: Dealing directly with the hotel or airline often results in smoother and more efficient customer service.
- More Flexibility: Direct bookings often allow for more flexibility with changes or special requests.
- Earning Loyalty Points: Booking directly allows you to earn points and benefits with hotel and airline loyalty programs.
- Potential for Better Deals: Sometimes, hotels and airlines offer exclusive deals or discounts to those who book directly.
When OTAs Can Be Useful:
- Comparing Prices: OTAs are great for comparing prices across multiple hotels or airlines in one place.
- Bundling Deals: OTAs often offer package deals that can save you money on flights and hotels.
- Last-Minute Bookings: OTAs can be useful for finding last-minute deals on accommodations.
Alternatives to Consider:
- Booking Directly with Hotels/Airlines: Contact the hotel or airline directly to compare prices and check for any exclusive deals.
- Metasearch Engines: Use metasearch engines like Google Flights, Kayak, or Skyscanner to compare prices across multiple OTAs and airlines.
- Travel Agents: Consider using a travel agent, especially for complex itineraries or specialized travel needs.
In Conclusion:
While there are potential drawbacks to using OTAs like Expedia and Snap Travel, they can still be useful tools for travel planning. It’s important to weigh the pros and cons and consider your individual needs and preferences. Sometimes booking directly is better, while other times using an OTA might be more convenient or cost-effective. The key is to be informed and compare your options before making a decision.
