cintroncar

I would like to know for those of you who have used Four Seasons Preferred Partners Travel Agents, and have received suite upgrades, what is an appropriate tipping /thank you gift. I would appreciate any comments because I do not know what the etiquette with FSPP travel agents is.

daniellam

When dealing with travel agents, no tipping is needed. They will receive a commission from the hotel after your stay.

DavidO

Ditto on that... no need to tip.

Merlion

Just give them more business in the future. No need for the tip.

TAHKUCT

^ I would say this is the best tip

Raffles

Personally, as they get 7-10% commission on the, say, $5,000 you might spend, in return for 5 minutes making a booking you email to them, I feel no tip is needed!

Kagehitokiri

i would be happy to pay an agent that is an expert negotiator a retainer. id see it as similar to buying status for upgrades/confirmed upgrades/etc.

i know someone who negotiated ridiculous upgrades at oberoi for example. (not an agent and didnt use one.)

NYBanker

In general, I suspect most agents would be thrilled with (a) a personal letter of thanks after the trip, (b) your future business and (c) a qualified referral or two.

A number of higher end agents visit many properties all around the world and can advise first-hand on their experiences. A few are kind enough to post their notes here, too. This is really value-add and is the type of agent I prefer.

As Kagehitokiri suggested, I too have considered putting an agent on retainer. I haven't found one that fits me perfectly, so haven't done so yet. Perhaps the retainer would the entitle me to free flight bookings (ie: no booking fee) and reasonable on-call/email advisory access...in exchange for making $x a year in commissionable hotel bookings. First hand knowledge of high end properties and prompt email communication are extremely valuable to me. Happy to hear suggestions of people/boutique agencies that might fit this bill!

LindaTerrill

No tipping is either needed or expected, however, I always appreciate feedback from clients after a stay. If you're happy with the service and benefits you receive, it's nice to receive a thank you note (and a referral is always welcome).

ABG

I think what everyone is saying is that there is no etiquette.... My personal experience as a TA is that I have received gifts from clients ranging from a gift card for gas to a $2500.00 cappuccino machine as a wedding gift and everything in between, including nothing at all!

Do whatever you think is best for you....