How to set up a travel agency?

How to Set Up a Travel Agency Business

• Answer:

  Although many people who earn travel agent certification or degrees in travel opt to work at large agencies, this certification provides a variety of opportunities. With a computer, Internet access, travel agent certification and telephone line, a travel agency business can be run from anywhere. A career as a travel agent is perfect for an at-home-parent or someone looking to own her own business. Difficulty: Moderately Challenging Instructions Enroll in a college or university that offers a travel agent certification program. Many schools offer courses both online and on campus, and most technical colleges also offer programs. If you are interested in a four-year degree, some universities offer a hospitality and tourism management program, which includes travel agent certification. Certification is needed to obtain travel agent discounts. Join the American Society of Travel Agents. This organization is an opportunity to network with other travel agents and industry members. You can obtain special discounts through this organization as well. These discounts are accessed through the ASTA website. You also have access to newsletters covering the most recent news in the travel industry. Apply for a job at a travel agency. Although you want to open your own travel agency, it is best to learn how to run an agency before jumping in. At an agency you can gain experience which will also prove to your customers you can help them fulfill their traveling needs. Working in an office with other travel agents, you can learn things such as the best airlines to work with, the hottest hotels and ways to stay organized while handling arrangements for several different clients. Rent office space or set up a home office, if you have the room. Most travel agency transactions, these days, are conducted over the Internet through booking websites or email. At minimum, you should also have a fax machine. A fax machine allows you to send forms back and forth quickly, particularly if you do not have the means to scan the documents over the computer. Network by handing out business cards and making contacts to market your business. Today many people are their own travel agents using websites like Priceline.com, Expedia.com or Kayak.com. You need to convince people that your service is relevant and that you can better serve their needs than these websites. Businesses also have a need for travel consultants.Talk to local businesses that send their employees on trips, about the different types of discounts and travel services you can provide.