We found using a Amex affiliated (Avoya) TA made a huge difference. Accrued double MR points for using them. Since our cruise was above 100k this made a big difference to us. We also found a TA who cares. She responds to our calls. She is honest. She saves us money and time.
If you need the name of a lovely TA who is Amex affiliated but not Platinum's TA service

then PM me. I get nothing from this myself. I am just proud of the work she did for us.