Online isn't the only way to travel

Going online to book holidays may seem the way of future, but Whanganui independent travel broker Colin Thompson is convinced travellers need more.

He said booking online could be overwhelming and there was plenty of room for error.
With over 40 years in the business, Mr Thompson is well aware of trends of the travel industry.

"Back in the day, booking an airfare was done over the phone and there was only one or two airlines to choose from," he said.

"Now everything is online, there are hundreds of airlines and many different routes for long haul travel."

Hailing from Britain, Mr Thompson has travelled extensively around Europe as well as the United States and Canada. He also works with a specialist cruising agency.

He said he only made money through booking fees and all his advisory services were free of charge.

"Unlike white collar businesses where the perception is they will charge by time, the reality with travel is we don't charge because our competitors don't."

Mr Thompson works independently under New Zealand Travel Brokers who have a network of people around the country. They are bonded by the Travel Agents Assoication, a self-regulating trade organisation representing travel agents and tour operators.