Rudi:

My experience of in person booking is the exact opposite (here in Salt Lake City, US) of yours. The last time I booked in person I realized only afterward that I could have booked a cheaper fare on line with EZ Sabre.

Far from getting any perks, coupons, consideration at the counter I expect nothing special and I get nothing special although I am always middle to upper elite FF and courteous. ( I do not however tender chocolates, but I have shared your advice with mileage challenged acquaintances.)

With E ticketing and online mileage bonuses, the only reason to approach the counter for me would be to turn in travel vouchers or coupons or to ticket award seats for family or friends.

If I do not book online, then my travel agent gets the business and I feel she does search for the lowest fare, though I haven't actually laid eyes on her, attractive though she is, in years.

I fly Delta almost exclusively. This may reflect their counter culture (hah, get it?) but I feel it probably reflects the US airline industry.

Jim