Message #63906

[raindance]

We have a travel company that books our air and rail travel and hotels.  However, it is costly I think we pay a retainer fee and a flat fee per transaction) and there is no guarantee that we are getting the best rates, although the agreement states that we should have the best rates.  I have, therefore, started booking travel arrangements direct with airlines, train companies and hotels, and use my company credit card.  

The disadvantage to me is that it can be time-consuming doing the research (particularly when Bossie wants details of flights from four different airports to the same destination - and trains as well!).  I'm currently training my assistant to do this task, which should improve matters.  However, we do benefit in keeping costs down, and once my assistant is up to speed then the costs will reduce further as her time is much cheaper than mine.