Michele Ramdial

I have chosen to rank and comment on
5 travel agency websites.

They will be ranked according to:

First Impression -- I thought the layout was ok.  The tabs are right at the top where they're easily seen.  The colours are pretty plain. There's nothing spectacular or eye-catching.  The font size is good and easy to read.

Navigation -- The tabs are easy to use and it was easy to find what i was looking for. 

If material is current and up-to-date -- The information and offers are up-to-date.  There is a link that offers specials on ski vacations for the wintertime.

Problems observed -- I did a sample search for a package trip to see how well it worked.  I entered information on leaving from Toronto on February 11, 2006 to Varadero, Cuba, returning February 18, 2006.  It then lead me to a page that said there were no vacation packages that matched my search criteria.  I tried entering different dates and it lead me to the same page.  I found it hard to believe that there were NO options for me, especially since I went to the area that said "Build your own package".  I was not impressed.

Useful applications -- I liked the user guide which gives assistance for those who are having trouble finding what they're looking for......especially for those who do not understand computers well.

E-commerce considerations -- "Expedia.ca has implemented a security program to keep information that is stored in our systems protected from unauthorized access."  Expedia.ca also uses Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encrytion technology, which encrypts all the given information before it's sent through the internet.  For sources click here.

Additional information -- I was impressed with the different websites they have for different countries like the U.S. (Expedia.com), the U.K. (Expedia.co.uk), and Italy (Expedia.it), etc.  I liked this feature because these countries can obtain information and pricing in their own currency and language without having to use another website.  This is a definite advantage over their competitors.

First impression -- I like the blue background....it's easy on the eyes.  It's not harsh like white.  The font size is good and able to read.  I like the clip-art style pictures used for the tabs and throughout the entire website.  The design is nice; it uses the whole page rather than just half.

Navigation -- The tabs are on the top which is good for visibility and access.  The pages open quickly.

If material is current & up-to-date -- The material is up-to-date and it doesn't take long to for the search to load.  They also find a lot of deals and prices through the internet. 

Problems observed -- I wanted to find more information on this site, but there is nothing that shows “about us" anywhere on the site.  There is no site map either.  I am also disappointed at the fact that a lot of things are only available to members of Cheap Tickets.  Even silly things like an article that this website is the "52nd fastest growing company in Canada."

Useful applications -- I like that the members can post forums on this site and anyone can read them.  I find it is an excellent way to find testimonials about peoples experiences with Cheap Tickets and is also a good form of FAQs. 

E-commerce considerations -- Unfortunately there is nothing stated about security regarding payment over the internet.  All that is stated is "Cheap Tickets and Travel does not under any circumstance sell personal or login information with other companies."  For source click here

Additional comments -- I am impressed with the options of purchasing rail tickets for Europe.  That is something I haven't seen on any other site.  Cheap Tickets also carries their own line of purchase apparel and merchandise that you can purchase online.  That is a very clever idea.  In order to keep up with competition they are also creating websites for the U.K., Australia, and already has one for the U.S.

First impression -- The design is very plain.  The background is white with very little colour.  There is too much information on the first page, it looks too jumbled and confusing.  There are only very few graphics and pictures.

Navigation -- The tabs are at the top of the pages and the links open up quickly.

If material is current & up-to-date -- Material is current and up-to-date.  They have a Valentine's day special for $500 savings on a trip as well as March break deals.

Problems observed -- There is an option to become a member but I didn't know it until I read their Privacy/Security policy.  I do not see anything where I can sign up to become a member.

Useful applications -- Bel Air Travel offers a "Deal of the day" that must be booked within 24 hours of the offer.  You can subscribe to a newsletter to get updates on deals and the latest travel news. 

E-commerce considerations -- To prevent unauthorized access, maintain data accuracy, and ensure the appropriate use of information, Bel Air has put in place appropriate physical, electronic and managerial procedures to safeguard and secure the information collected online.  For source click here.

Additional comments -- Bel Air Travel is the winner of the Consumers Choice Award for Business Excellence for nine years in a row.  They are also believed to offer the lowest prices to their customers.