I don't think travel agents like customers doing the booking themselves.
The bad thing is you as a consumer have lost you choice. Many people do not book via the web (Yep that is fac) many like the option of looking at various sites prior to making a choice. You need to see this issue is about the spin...This is a flat out increase.
TAditionally go onto their site and try to book something outside of the box. The engine is not equipped to do do. So you must call them.
Consumer can keep accepting this or let companies know how they feel.
I myself have assited in supporting many freeper requests.
I hope you will make your voice heard.