THREE KEY FACTS: The travel agent industry generates over US$296 billion annually. More than 1 billion hours of content are watched on YouTube daily. In 2023, travel-related Search and discovery was mostly done via Google followed by family & friends, Youtube, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.

Sarah Pollok is a multi-media travel journalist who covers trends and advice for travel, tourism and aviation. She joined the Herald in 2021. OPINION Even the most seasoned of travellers can feel a sense of weariness when staring down at a blank itinerary.

Planning a trip, whether it’s to Boston or Bali, can take a significant amount of time, effort and know-how. It’s why the travel agent industry continues to exist (and pull in US$296 billion per year), despite the digital age offering so many DIY options..