03-25-2009, 11:30 AM
Unless you are doing something really complicated like multiple stopovers or obscure routings, you can probably do just as well for yourself. Websites like travelocity.com, expedia.com, and orbitz.com are easy to use and will give you most of the ordinary options you need to get to the islands. One website, yapta.com, is a bit more complicated but will track pricing on a route and email you when the price drops.
Also, it is often less expensive to do a connection into Hilo via Honolulu than to fly directly to Kona. You also avoid the two-hour drive from Kona to Puna by doing this.
Having said all that, a good travel agent can sometimes find options or specials that the lay person may not be able to find. Most agents these days charge fees, but your family friend may not. I suggest seeing what you come up with on your own first.
Cheers,
Jerry
Also, it is often less expensive to do a connection into Hilo via Honolulu than to fly directly to Kona. You also avoid the two-hour drive from Kona to Puna by doing this.
Having said all that, a good travel agent can sometimes find options or specials that the lay person may not be able to find. Most agents these days charge fees, but your family friend may not. I suggest seeing what you come up with on your own first.
Cheers,
Jerry