reisbureaus

Reisbureaus, plural of reisbureau, are businesses that arrange travel for clients. They act as intermediaries between travelers and suppliers such as airlines, hotels, tour operators, and car rental companies. Services typically include flight and hotel bookings, holiday packages, guided tours, cruises, travel insurance, visa assistance, and trip preparation. Some reisbureaus serve individual travelers, while others operate as travel management companies for businesses.

Reisbureaus may operate from a brick‑and‑mortar storefront, online platforms, or a combination of both. They can offer customized itineraries, group tours, and specialist travel such as adventure, cultural, or corporate travel. Revenue commonly comes from commissions earned on bookings, service fees, and markups on third‑party components, with many agencies increasingly balancing traditional commissions with fee‑based services.

Historically, reisbureaus developed in the late 19th and early 20th centuries as rail and steamship travel expanded. They evolved into full‑service travel agencies and, later, into hybrid models that integrate online booking tools. The rise of online travel agencies has created competition, prompting many traditional reisbureaus to adopt digital platforms and niche offerings.

Regulation and consumer protection for travel agencies vary by country but generally cover disclosures, contract terms, and protection of customer funds, especially for package travel arrangements. In Dutch‑speaking markets, agencies must comply with national consumer law and relevant EU regulations on travel packages and linked travel arrangements.