المستخلص: |
Internet is a reality of today’s tourism industry, as it offers a new context in which to do business, switching from a channel to a media perspective. Advanced communication technologies and the growing availability of travel services and related tourism products on Internet over the past few years have aimed at encouraging travelers to give up using travel agencies. Travel services and tourism products are usually bought without experiencing them first, so buying them online is not so different from offline experience. Thus, some authors have predicted that travel agencies will no longer exist in the future as travelers turn to Internet to book their travel and tourism products. This exploratory research identifies opinions on Internet, online booking and the future of travel agencies. A questionnaire survey was conducted among Egyptian travelers. The research results suggested that although more travelers are turning to Internet, yet some were doubtful to book online. Currently, online booking is increasing; as more experienced and active young Internet users are entering the travel market and making online reservations. It might be impossible to make accurate forecast of the effects of Internet on the travel agencies, but what is more important is that travel agencies must be aware of the changes that are taking place in the travel and tourism industry, and realize how travelers see and use Internet.
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