Today’s travel agents are no longer mere booking intermediaries. They have become trusted advisors — akin to financial planners and CPAs — who make the overall travel experience better and provide both leisure and business travelers maximum value for their travel dollar. The term “advisor” not only more accurately describes the value our members provide…
The holiday season is already upon us. Is it just us, or did this year go by really fast? The winter holidays are an incredibly popular time for travel. A lot of people are of course headed to see family, but others are looking forward to hitting the slopes or escaping the cold to hit…
A host agency isn’t a travel agency, nor is it a supplier. A host agency is an organization of travel agents. They provide the proper resources for the price of a monthly fee or commission split. Host agencies offer travel agents guidance, tools, and training to keep up with the ever-changing multi-billion dollar travel industry. …
Working from home is truly wonderful in so many ways. You get to set your own hours, take breaks for important events, and work during your most productive times of day in whatever clothing is most comfortable for you. Being an independent travel agent is even better. You get to spend your time and make…
Independent travel agents who are trying to reconnect with old clients may be at a loss as to what to do in order to engage those who they are looking to do repeat business with. Or, it could be the question of getting people who almost became clients to book a trip. In a travel…
As an independent travel agent, finding ways to increase your income probably crosses your mind pretty frequently. You put a lot of energy into marketing and networking. You work hard to ensure your clients have a fabulous vacation and tell all their friends about what a wonderful magician you are. You have your pitch down…
When ‘Travel Agent’ first became a profession, planning a complete round-trip vacation was incredibly difficult. Airlines, hotels, and entertainment venues had to be called personally and reservations made one at a time. The value of having a professional who could put together a coherent and enjoyable trip was undeniable. Needless to say, times have changed.…
How can thinking like a travel agent transform your getaways into unforgettable adventures? We have some tips that may change your outlook on travel forever, all thanks to adopting an agent state-of-mind. Whether you are currently living the dream as a travel agent or it has long been your dream gig in retirement, it’s just…
It’s a sad and stress-riddled fact that Americans are not using enough of their vacation days. Many leave more than ten vacation days ‘on the table’ even when there is no year-end payout or roll over into the next year. The problem isn’t that people don’t want to vacation, they do. Instead, there are a…
Before the internet, a well-connected travel agent was the only way to book a comprehensive vacation. But today, things are a little more complicated. As a travel agent, no doubt you are familiar with the one overwhelming argument from the general populace: Why should they pay a professional when all the resources to research and…
-- Janice Gilliard