In the letter “Scoping Out Bargain Airfares Online” (June ’09, page 15), the writer runs through an interesting litany of what he had to go through to achieve a reasonable air travel expense from Los Angeles to the Philippines.
I applaud his diligent work, however I have learned to deal with equally challenging air travel arrangements by relying on my travel agent, Cheri Schwartz of Tubby Lohmer’s Travel (1826 Tower Dr., Stillwater, MN 55082; 651/439-3522, e-mail cheri@tubbystravel.info).
Ms. Schwartz has access to better flight information and fares than I do, and her $50 fee is well worth it. (If she is not in office, the other agents are capable.) I realize that not all travel agents are equal. I am blessed with one who has served my wife and me well for a number of years.
I encourage travelers to find a good professional travel agency in their local area and utilize it for air travel, booking of lodging, etc. Generally, I get a lower price and, overall, a more satisfactory result through Tubby Lohmer’s Travel than if I do this myself.
KENT SHAMBLIN
Beaver Bay, MN