Michael Levine urges travelers to use a top travel agent

Media expert Michael Levine says travelers should lean on professional agents to save time, reduce stress and avoid costly mistakes as trips become more complex. He points to his own long-running relationship with Global Travel Collection’s Ken Schneider and offers a checklist for choosing the right advisor.

Why it matters: - Travel plans can become expensive and stressful when schedules change, connections slip or booking details get complicated. - Levine argues that a strong travel agent can protect travelers’ time, money and peace of mind. - The advice matters most for people with demanding schedules, complex itineraries or trips where small mistakes can become costly.

What happened: - Michael Levine, a media expert known for representing celebrities, authors and public figures, urged travelers to work with a top travel agent. - Levine said every traveler needs a strong advisor before booking a flight, cruise or vacation. - Levine highlighted his partnership with Ken Schneider of Global Travel Collection as an example of the value a skilled agent can provide. - Global Travel Collection books more than $1.2 billion of travel per year.

The details: - Levine said a good travel advisor does more than make reservations. - A strong agent should understand traveler priorities, ask thoughtful questions, explain options clearly and help anticipate problems before they disrupt a trip. - Levine said Schneider has saved him time, stress and money. - Levine warned that a cheap fare can become costly if it leads to hours of aggravation or a bad itinerary. - Levine recommended asking trusted travelers for referrals. - Levine advised checking credentials, industry affiliations and training, including ASTA’s Verified Travel Advisor designation. - Levine said travelers should match an agent’s experience to the trip, destination and personal needs. - Levine recommended discussing fees, booking charges, cancellation terms and included services before committing. - Levine also said travelers should clarify who handles emergencies, flight changes and after-hours support. - Levine urged travelers to interview agents before hiring one and choose someone who listens, respects budgets and responds quickly.

Between the lines: - The message reflects a broader shift in travel planning, where cheap online booking tools do not always solve for disruption, rebooking or personalized support. - Levine’s emphasis on a long-term relationship suggests repeat travelers may benefit more from continuity than from shopping each trip separately. - The advice also frames travel agents as problem-solvers, not just middlemen.

What's next: - Levine wants travelers to build lasting relationships with advisors instead of treating each booking as a one-off transaction. - He encouraged travelers to find someone they can keep on speed dial before the next departure. - The full announcement is available here.