Booking directly through the airline does have it's advantages

[Callalily]

You have a full 24 hours to change your ticket, even if it's a non-refundable ticket if booked through the airline. If you booked through a 3rd party, then you must abide by their rules.

https://www.smartertravel.com/24-hour-cancellation-rule/?

[we can do it]

1. Same as hotels. Book direct always.

[Callalily]

5. Definitely book directly through the hotel.

I just booked a room. Online booking was non-refundable. Directly through the hotel, it cost me one more dollar, and it's a fully refundable room, up until 24 hours of arrival. Fair enough.

[Phoenix61]

2. I always book directly through the airline/ferry/train.

It’s so much easier to manage any problem that comes up.

[2naSalit]

3. On the rare occasion...

That I do travel, that's exactly what I do.

[CTyankee]

4. We've planned and taken two overseas trips with a travel agent. She took care of all of our special needs: handicapped

husband and we're both in our 80s. I can't sing her praises loudly enough. She got me museum tickets and helped us get wheelchairs and preferred seating on air travel.

[Callalily]

6. You're lucky that you had such a good travel agent.

I contacted one a while back, and she was useless. Ended up booking myself.

Glad you had better success.