Travel Agents

Becoming a Travel Agent

Travel agents need to become well-organized and detail-oriented in order to compile information from various sources in order to plan and organize their client’s travel needs. They encourage people to travel and help them plan and prepare for their trip. Travel agents help travelers sort through large amounts of information in order to make the best possible travel arrangements. As an agent, you are also expected to know how to advise travelers about their destinations, such as the weather conditions, local ordinances and customs, attractions, exhibitions, and money exchanges. These professionals increasingly specialize in specific destinations or by type of travel. Those who specialize in a travel destination will have the best chances for success. Travel agents held about 101,000 jobs in May 2006 and are found in every part of the country.

Travel Agents face increasing competition from travel and airline websites for low-cost fares, but travelers still prefer using a travel agent who can cater to their specific needs. To attract these travelers, many agents specialize in specific interest destinations, travel to certain regions. Advanced computer systems and other networks make it possible for a growing number of travel agents to work from home; however, some agents desire to have an office presence for walk-in business. Opportunities should be better for agents who specialize in specific destinations, luxury travel, or particular types of travelers.

Visualize a vacation of self-indulgence in messages, savory culinary treats and boutique shopping. Furthermore, luxury and specialty travel is expected to increase the growing number of Americans who are seeking out exotic and unique vacations and a growing part of travel agents business is organizing and selling tours for the growing number of international visitors.

The multi-billion dollar travel business is one of the largest industries in the country. Spending on travel is expected to increase significantly within the next 10 years. Much of the travel will continue to be related to business but as business activity expands so will business related travel. At the same time more leisure, longer frequent vacations, will also give people more time to travel for pleasure. As an Agent, you will help travelers define their interests and needs, including time and budget concerns. Many new agents are under the impression that they are going to have to pay big dollars for travel agent training. Not so!

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