For years now Web travel types have been telling agents that the
only thing they have to fear about the Internet is fear itself, and
that the only way to allay that fear is to jump on line with both
feet.
Sound advice, to be sure. But let's face it, sometimes denial is
a far more expedient response than confrontation when it comes to
fear-management. So let me give you a little added incentive for
disentangling the Web: Internet users like you. They really like
you!
As I navigate the never-ending network of electronic rivers and
streams, ponds, pools, eddies and oceans that make up the Internet,
I waggle my toes in any number of travel-related chat rooms and
bulletin boards. Whenever the subject of on-line booking versus
using an agent is broached, agents win hands down. Users
overwhelmingly support the concept of working with a living,
breathing human being when it comes to making travel
arrangements.
And the best part is, they're saying it on the Web. Travelers
with enough Internet know-how to book on line, don't. So what are
you waiting for? Log on. They really like you!