What are "travel agents" and what are the benefits of using them?

What are "travel agents" and what are the benefits of using them?

Jen Leo (Daily Deal Blogger, LA Times Travel Section) gives expert video advice on: How do I find out about air fare discounts? and more...

A travel agent is an actual human who will book your travel for you. That can be a flight from LA to New York, or it could be a vacation in Australia, Bali or Mexico. One of the benefits of using a travel agent, versus doing it yourself online, is that they are going to give you expert opinions, personal service and, chances are, they might have already taken the trip that they're recommending. A travel agent may be able to tell you first-hand what to look out for, what the perks are and what to avoid on your next trip.