The Perfect Holiday Formula: Travel Planning Done Right
Your next story doesn’t need a filter. It needs space to happen.
At Thompsons, we believe holidays aren’t about ticking boxes or chasing the perfect photo. They’re about how a place makes you feel, the laughter you didn’t plan, and the moments that stay long after the suitcase is unpacked. For more than 45 years, we’ve helped South Africans travel smarter, travel better and travel with heart. We’re a proudly South African trusted travel provider, yes – but more than that, we’re people who understand that when planning is done right, memories come easily.
Pack your bags, not your worries. Because holidays should feel like this.
4 Key takeouts from this guide
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Great holidays start long before take-off: thoughtful travel planning removes stress and creates space for real moments.
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Using a travel agent isn’t about paying more: it’s about value, protection and matching you to the best holiday package for your budget and needs.
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Experience matters: 45+ years in the industry means access, insight and support when it matters most.
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Memories matter more than logistics: the right travel partner helps you focus on experiences, not admin.
The Thompsons way: travel with heart
We’ve watched travel change over decades. Flights got faster, bookings moved online, and choice exploded. What hasn’t changed is why people travel in the first place. Travel isn’t about distance. It’s about connection.
As one of South Africa’s most trusted travel companies, and backed by Cullinan Holdings, Thompsons leads with authenticity. We plan with care, advise honestly and design holidays that feel right – not rushed, not forced, and never cookie-cutter. Whether you’re booking a quick escape or working towards a once-in-a-lifetime experience, our goal is the same: remove the stress so you can be present.
Close your map. Open your heart.
Is it cheaper to book with a travel agent or on your own?
This is one of the most common questions we hear, and the honest answer is: it depends on value, not just price.
Booking on your own can look cheaper at first glance, but it often excludes added benefits like flexible fare rules, supplier perks, destination advice and on-the-ground support. At Thompsons, we match you to the best holiday package to suit your budget and needs – chat with us to compare options side by side. In many cases, our access to all-inclusive holiday packages and negotiated rates means you pay the same or less, with far more included.
Is it better to book a vacation through a travel agent?
If you value confidence, expertise and time, then yes. Travel planning can be overwhelming, especially when regulations change, connections matter or plans shift unexpectedly. A professional travel agent simplifies decisions, flags potential issues, and handles the details you shouldn’t have to worry about while on holiday.
This is where experience counts. With over four decades in the industry, Thompsons knows how to turn complex itineraries into seamless journeys.
What are the benefits of booking a holiday through a travel agent?
The benefits of using a travel agent go far beyond convenience:
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Expert guidance based on real-world experience
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Time saved on research, comparisons and admin
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Personalised recommendations, not algorithms
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Support when plans change, before and during travel
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Access to added value, upgrades or inclusions
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Budget clarity, with honest advice and no surprises
Do trips cost more with a travel agent?
Not necessarily. In fact, many travellers are surprised to learn that trips often cost the same – or less – when booked through the best travel agency. The difference lies in what you get for that price: peace of mind, professional support, and fewer costly mistakes.
A missed transfer, incorrect fare rule or overlooked visa requirement can quickly outweigh any small saving from booking alone.
What are the disadvantages of booking with a travel agent?
Transparency matters, so let’s be clear. Some travellers feel they give up a bit of control when working with an agent, or assume it limits flexibility. That only happens when the relationship isn’t collaborative.
At Thompsons, we plan with you, not for you. Your preferences lead the way. Our role is to advise, refine and protect – not override your choices.
Can I talk to a travel agent for free?
Yes. You can absolutely speak to a Thompsons travel expert without obligation. We believe good advice builds trust. Whether you’re exploring ideas or ready to book, our team is here to answer questions, explain options and help you make informed decisions.
What is the safest way to pay a travel agent?
Safety and transparency are essential. The safest way to pay a travel agent is through secure, reputable payment channels offered by established providers. Thompsons uses trusted payment systems, clear documentation, and full compliance standards to protect your booking and your money. Always ensure your agent is accredited and well-established – experience matters here too.
Beyond bookings: tips for better holidays
A great holiday isn’t just about where you go, but how you plan:
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Leave space in your itinerary: some of the best moments are unplanned
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Choose quality over quantity: fewer experiences, enjoyed fully
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Plan around how you want to feel, not just what you want to see
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Ask questions early: it’s easier to adjust before you travel
Where memories happen, not just photos.
Ready to plan your next story?
Whether you’re dreaming of white-sand beaches in Mauritius or the Maldives, vibrant culture and flavour in Thailand or Brazil, or iconic experiences closer to home like the Kruger National Park or Victoria Falls, Thompsons is here to help you plan it all – with care, insight, and heart. From bucket-list journeys to Egypt and Kenya, to easy escapes and all-inclusive holiday packages, we’ll match you to the best holiday package to suit your budget and needs.
With over 45 years of experience, we’re the travel partner who answers the questions, handles the details and makes the process feel easy – so you can focus on what really matters.
Chat to us at Thompsons, the experts in travel planning, and let’s turn your holiday ideas into memories that feel as good as they look.
