Online Travel Sites Experience?

Just wondering if anyone has any words of advice or caution for booking
flights (or other services) through online agencies such as Travelocity or
Expedia? And what are the pros and cons of using e-tickets? Any risk of
encountering a problem when checking in (i.e. finding something wrong with
the booking)?

Thanks
Ron B

(to respond directly, please delete the prot)

RonB wrote:

Just wondering if anyone has any words of advice or caution for booking
flights (or other services) through online agencies such as Travelocity or
Expedia? And what are the pros and cons of using e-tickets? Any risk of
encountering a problem when checking in (i.e. finding something wrong with
the booking)?

Thanks
Ron B

(to respond directly, please delete the prot)

In my experience, the airlines are less accommodating than if you booked
directly. Sometimes *finger pointing* begins as to who is at fault and
who is to remedy the situation. However, they are fine if there are no
glitches.

I usually check out the stated sites plus the actual airline or hotel
sites and often find that the airlines/hotels offer about the same price
or cheaper with no booking fee. In the Past, I have had to book a room
with expedia (no rooms avail directly) and service was just fine.

I don't book with Hotwire or Orbitz unless I am buying a ticket for
someone other than myself or spouse and know for sure that the plans are
WRITTEN IN STONE. Never have used those sites for a hotel as I like to
know what hotel I am staying in.

Many a time you will find it much cheaper to buy from your local
travel agent! I have seen price differences between top online flight
booking systems and travel agent high street shops where an internet
booking was more than $ 500 over.

Marcel
www.wishtotravel.com