Why Your Travel Advisor Should Be an ASTA Member
- Ryan O'Hare
- Aug 12
- 4 min read
When planning your dream vacation, you want to work with someone you can trust—someone with the expertise, resources, and dedication to make your travel experience seamless and unforgettable. That’s where an ASTA-affiliated travel advisor and agency, like Voyage Geeks, comes in.
We strive to educate both our current and potential clients on the value of having a trusted travel advisor, transforming their experience from "Meh... I could have done that myself" to "Wow! How did I ever plan trips without their help before?" I'm quite active in Facebook travel groups, travel-related sub-Reddits, and other platforms, where the debate over whether to use a travel agent for booking trips frequently arises. Opinions on this topic are quite divided. Some believe that travel agents are necessary for complex trips, while others prefer to plan every detail with an advisor. Some people insist their previous advisor was always unavailable, while others say they received exceptional service with outstanding communication.
So, how did we all become so divided on this issue? I believe there is one specific reason for this division...
Not All Travel Advisors Are Created Equal!
In today's travel industry, the level of professionalism among advisors varies. This is true for many other industries as well. For instance, your financial advisor might only reach out when they have a new product to promote, or they might be readily available whenever you need to discuss concerns about your accounts or how life changes could impact your income. Similarly, we've all noticed the difference between a doctor who barely makes eye contact during a brief exam room visit and one who genuinely takes the time to understand your concerns and address all your questions.
In a similar way, some advisors in the travel industry don't meet the expectations of their clients demands. They may treat travel consulting as a hobby or they may focus more on recruiting others into multi-level marketing schemes than on serving clients. Unfortunately, this can damage the reputation of committed professionals in the industry and influence your perception of the value a good travel advisor can offer.
At Voyage Geeks, we take our role in helping you plan your next trips seriously. We’re committed to providing expert guidance and personalized service to help you plan vacations that are not only memorable but also stress-free. And being a member of ASTA is how we showcase that commitment for you. But how does being an ASTA member help when it comes time for us to plan and book your next vacation?
Why ASTA Membership Matters
The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) is the world’s largest association of travel professionals. Bluntly speaking, any advisor who is serious about being an advisor is a member. Choosing an ASTA member means choosing a travel advisor who is committed to excellence, ethics, and advocacy.
Professional Standards You Can Trust
When you work with an ASTA member advisor, you're not just hiring someone who loves travel—you’re partnering with a certified professional who upholds a strict code of ethics. ASTA members are committed to integrity, accountability, and excellence in every interaction. This means your travel advisor is required to act in your best interest, provide honest recommendations, and maintain transparency in pricing and policies. Whether you're booking a luxury cruise or a group family vacation, you can trust that your advisor is operating with your satisfaction and safety as their top priorities.
Access to Industry Knowledge and Resources
ASTA equips its members with cutting-edge tools, ongoing education, and access to a vast network of trusted travel suppliers. This insider knowledge allows your advisor to stay ahead of trends, understand evolving travel regulations, and secure exclusive perks that aren’t available to the general public. From room upgrades and onboard credits to curated itineraries and VIP experiences, your advisor can tailor every detail of your trip to match your preferences and budget. Plus, their connections mean you benefit from faster service and more reliable support throughout your journey.
Peace of Mind and Support When You Need It Most
Even with the most carefully planned trips, issues happen—but with an ASTA-affiliated advisor, you’re never alone. Whether your flight is canceled, your hotel is overbooked, or a natural disaster disrupts your itinerary, your advisor is just a call away. They’ll step in to rebook, reroute, or resolve the issue quickly and efficiently, often before you even realize there’s a problem. Their goal is to minimize stress and maximize enjoyment, so you can focus on making memories instead of managing logistics. It’s like having a personal travel concierge who always has your back.
A Long-Term Travel Planning Partner
Great travel advisors don’t just book trips—they build relationships. ASTA members take the time to get to know you: your travel style, your favorite destinations, your bucket list, and even your dietary preferences. Over time, they become trusted partners who can anticipate your needs and craft experiences that reflect your values and goals. Whether you're planning a honeymoon, a multigenerational family reunion, or annual getaways, your advisor will be there to guide you every step of the way—year after year.
Advocacy for Travelers’ Rights
ASTA doesn’t just support travel advisors—it advocates for travelers too. Through its Political Action Committee (ASTAPAC), ASTA ensures that the voices of travel professionals and their clients are heard in Washington, D.C., helping shape policies that protect and benefit travelers. Members are critical in this advocacy to ensure their clients' voices are heard.
Elevate Your Travel Experience
Choosing an ASTA member agency means choosing a travel advisor who is:
Committed to excellence
Backed by industry resources
Advocating for your best interests
It’s not just about booking a trip—it’s about building a partnership with someone who will be there for you every step of the way.
Voyage Geeks: Proud ASTA Members
At Voyage Geeks, we’re proud members of ASTA and part of the 3 Rivers Chapter in Pittsburgh, PA. Our membership reflects our commitment to professionalism, advocacy, and ethical practices. We’re here to provide exceptional service and peace of mind—ensuring every trip is seamless, enriching, and unforgettable.
Ready to start planning your next journey?
Contact Voyage Geeks today, and let’s make your travel dreams a reality!
