catsilversword wrote:I guess it all depends on your comfort zone.I do sometimes look at VH, but generally to look at itineraries (sometimes helpful when planning a road trip, I find). I do put trips together myself, but a huge part of that for me is that I actually enjoy it! Maybe I should change jobs.... I'm not precious about it though, if VH offered a better deal, I'd take it 
Though, on the other hand, when they screw things up.... there'd be India to talk to... 
You'll nearly always pay over the odds to use a travel agent, they have to cover the cost of all those glossy mags, reps,front seats in the bubble..and now shops..
Think Bill & C'SW hit the nail on the head, many of us are quite happy organising ourselves, being regular globetrotters. VH has the advantage of sorting out the intricate detail bits, timings/hotel rooms/transfers/where to eat/what to wear..etc
If you need that, great its there to help, but you pay for it..and often miss out on other offers through doing it independently..
For us its part of the fun..Flights Plus hotels plus car hire- job done, anticipation of going somewhere new and wacky.
However the need for strong backup insurance is a must.
we've always found deals for hotels with the likes of Trailfinders or FHR outside normal loyalty/status perks.
That said if the price is right, wouldn't hesitate, but like to be able to understand the mark-up or saving against sorting ourselves. Yet to be convinced otherwise..
NH, Hobbit Land.
