Without rehashing a closed thread, I have learned some valuable lessons for my first time using a travel agent. I'd like this thread to be repository of experience and advice for new members of this forum like I was/am.

What makes the Luxury Hotel and Travel forum a bit different is that instead of traditional bookings through a hotel, where you are speaking directly to the employee that works there. Where there are likely privacy policies, credit card policies, personal information policies that are taught and hopefully followed. The Luxury Hotel and Travel forum poster is probably using a travel agent or 3rd party or even 4th party to book their stay.

This travel agent /3rd/4th party is likely a 1099 contractor that runs their business on their own, setting their own safeguarding policies for personal information. Thinking about it, it's pretty scary given the amount of and sensitivity of the information you are giving. And in turn they could be passing it along to someone else you don't even know exists.

All that being said, this is what I have learned for my next booking...

[DO] the research on the agent, but ask for personal references and contact said references. Fancy pictures on Instagram, posts on Flyertalk and trip reports are not enough.

[DO] ask the hotel for their payment policies directly and if the agent isn't following these ask why.

[DO] ask the agent if they are using any other intermediaries. Apparently their are wholesalers or tour operators that can increase their commission.

[DO] ask what the agent's backup plan is for your booking should they become ill, die, are on vacation or their is a family emergency. Who do you contact? They should have an agent that they work with that can take over the booking.

[DO] ask what the expected return of communication should be. So you know when to reach out to the backup person or when red flags should go up.

[DO NOT] give your credit card to the agent. In most cases you should be able to provide payment to the hotel directly. If there is a good reason to give your credit card to the agent, ask their procedures for keeping your credit card safe.

[DO NOT] provide copies of your passport. If asked, be sure there is a good reason such as booking flights. And if the agent is only going to pass them along, then provide directly to the hotel.

[DO NOT] wait if you think there is a problem. You are paying the agent and giving the benefit of the doubt is great and all, but it's best to nip problems in the bud.

[DO NOT] be afraid to ask questions. If you have one, ASK IT!

That's all I have. Please add your own, I'd love to read them considering I'm still a bit green to the luxury travel scene.