Question for fellow travel advisors based on something I have been testing in my own business
I have booked trips both through supplier platforms like Expedia TAAP and hotel partner portals, and also by reaching out directly to hotels and suppliers to negotiate rates, perks, and group terms.
I have noticed there are clear advantages and tradeoffs with each approach depending on the situation, especially when it comes to margins, flexibility, and long term leverage.
For those of you actively booking client trips, which approach has produced better results for you overall?
Do you find the supplier platforms efficient enough to rely on long term, or have direct supplier relationships given you better control, stronger margins, or better client outcomes?
Would be interested to hear what has worked best in your real world experience and why.