Travel agents sell transportation, lodging, and admission to
entertainment activities to individuals and groups planning trips. They offer
advice on destinations, plan trip itineraries, and make travel arrangements for
clients. Most travel agents work full time. Some work longer hours during peak
travel times or when they must accommodate customers’ schedule changes and
last-minute needs.Employers may prefer candidates who have taken classes
related to the travel industry. Many community colleges, vocational schools,
and industry associations offer technical training or continuing education
classes in professional travel planning. Classes usually focus on reservations
systems, regulations regarding international travel, and marketing. In
addition, a few colleges offer degrees in travel and tourism.Some associations
offer certifications that may help travel agents once they are on the job. The
Travel Institute, for example, provides training and professional development opportunities
for experienced travel agents. Examinations for different levels of
certification are offered, depending on a travel agent’s experience.
Certification for airlines or cruise lines is available from associations such
as the International Airline Transport Association’s Training and Development
Institute and the Cruise Lines International Association. Some states require
agents to have a business license to sell travel services. Requirements among
states vary greatly. Contact individual state licensing agencies for more
information.
Arrange travel for business and vacation customers Determine customers’ needs and preferences, such as
schedules and costs Plan and arrange tour packages, excursions, and day trips Find fare and schedule information.
Calculate total travel costs, Book reservations for travel, hotels, rental cars, and
special events, such as tours and excursions Tell clients about what their trip will be like, including
giving details on required documents, such as passports or visas.
Give advice about local weather conditions, customs, and
attractions Make alternative booking arrangements if changes arise
before or during the trip Travel agents help travelers by sorting through vast amounts
of information to find the best possible travel arrangements. In addition,
resorts and specialty travel groups use travel agents to promote travel
packages to their clients.
Travel agents also may visit destinations to get firsthand
experience so that they can make recommendations to clients or colleagues. They
may visit hotels, resorts, and restaurants to evaluate the comfort,
cleanliness, and quality of the establishment. However, most of their time is
spent talking with clients, promoting tours, and contacting airlines and hotels
to make travel arrangements. Travel agents use a reservation system called a
Global Distribution System (GDS) to access travel information and make
reservations with travel suppliers such as airlines or hotels.
Travel agents increasingly are focusing on a specific type
of travel, such as adventure tours. Some may cater to a specific group of
people, such as senior citizens or single people. Other travel agents primarily
make corporate travel arrangements for employee business travel. Some work for
tour operators and are responsible for selling the company’s tours and
services.
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