With the volume of options available, travel is a very complex market.  In the planning stages consumers find that travel planning is very emotionally taxing and often end up confused by the multitude of alternatives.  Additionally, travel agents have developed relationships with suppliers and have gained inside knowledge that will assist the traveler in planning the best vacation experience and value.  Be aware that travel planning, although you will be more acclimated to the process and will have additional resources, can still be a grueling task for a travel agent and requires much time and dedication.