Travel Be 4U

The travel industry is a seven trillion dollar industry expected to double to fourteen trillion dollars within the next decade. This lucrative industry is currently growing 23% faster than the global economy.

A key factor in this growth phenomenon is the steady stream of baby boomers who are retiring, or getting ready to retire. In fact, baby boomers are retiring at a rate of one every eight seconds. Travel was rated the number one thing these baby boomers intend to do when they do retire.

There is now an increased demand for qualified travel agents, due to the explosive growth of the industry as a whole. To become a certified travel agent, your options are not limited to the traditional brick and mortar setting.

Many reputable travel agencies are now offering attractive options for the individual looking for a legitimate home based business.

If your goal is to work as an independent travel agent from the comfort of your own home, you may want to consider working as an online travel agent.

Here are some companies that you can research, that offer excellent income opportunities and complete training. Please note, that many travel companies that actively recruit agents to work from home, will hire their agents as employees.

There are also travel companies that recruit independent agents. This option will offer the agent the freedom of being self-employed, and the ability to set their own hours.

To take advantage of this option, be aware that there will be an investment required. The ability to make money will be solely at the discretion of the agent who chooses to invest in this business model.

On a positive note, many agents who have invested in this business model are making a very nice income, so be sure to research this option before ruling it out.

Travel companies that currently offer the independent agent business model include TraVerus Travel Network, Global Resorts Network, and Your Travel Business, also known as YTB.

Make sure to do your due diligence! Be sure to research each company carefully, and make it a priority to fully understand the compensation plan. You will also need to know what training is available, and whether the company will offer you the opportunity to become certified.

Don’t be afraid to ask important questions, such as whether the company has IATA(International Air Transport Association), IATAN (International Airlines Travel Agent Network), and CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) Credentials. This is important information to know, especially if you intend to take advantage of the travel perks and benefits available to those in the travel industry.

Here are some questions to ask – What is the initial investment, if any? Are there any additional costs or fees associated with obtaining licensing, or becoming certified? And finally, if you are considering a work at home position, what kind of support and training is offered?

Next, determine whether you a right fit for the travel industry. Lets break down the qualifications that will determine whether you are suited for this challenging, but rewarding career.

Travel agents should have a minimum of a high school diploma. Agents should have a true love for travel,as well as a sincere enthusiasm and love for working with people, because these traits are crucial elements for success in this industry.

Travel agents should also possess excellent multi-tasking and organization skills. Attention to detail and accuracy are very important, along with great communication skills. In addition, good computer skills will be needed.

Travel agents should possess a professional, courteous demeanor when working with suppliers, and the general public. Sales ability and great interpersonal skills are an added plus.

The benefits of becoming a travel agent are many. I have listed the top three.

Travel agents save up to 80% on travel to many of the worlds exclusive resorts and destinations. These discounts include, but are not limited to:

a. Complimentary upgrades

b. Hotel room upgrades and discounts

c. Car rental discounts and upgrades

d. Cruises

e. Theme park discounts

f. Vacation Packages

FAM trips, also known as familiarization trips. Suppliers will offer access to their facilities at substantial discounts so that travel agents will have first hand knowledge of their facilities. The travel agent will then be able to make recommendations and book travel for their clients based on their personal knowledge and first hand experience.

The supplier will roll out the red carpet for the travel agent to ensure the travel professional has an outstanding time.

There are also tax benefits for individuals who chose to do this profession as an independent travel agent. You should consult with your CPA or tax professional for more information regarding this benefit.

So, how do I become a travel agent? In summary, becoming a travel agent can be a lucrative and rewarding career. Should you decide that you possess the skills and abilities needed for success, you can look forward to a promising career.

In addition to the companies named in this article, you can do further research online at Google or Yahoo using the following keywords – become a travel agent, how do I become a travel agent, travel agent careers, or online travel agent.



By: Alecia Barnes

About the Author:

KUKARobotics asked:

Using Automated automotive spot welding using KUKA robots. For more information see the company 's website at www.kukarobotics.com.

meagan_kidd asked:


I stay in the trip advisor, but I was wondering if there are any other places like? L you can read reviews. Thanks

PRPresstv asked:

Iran The first international tour operators convention – Presstv

Tangopang asked:



For additional time with the quickest time making your gate you will help you grabbed on items it through security station and arrived at your flight as you do carry on air travel plans run as well as smoothly as the least amount of.

The least amount of the conveyor belt for the last minute current information on air travel rules pertaining to air travel rules do allow you do with current air travel plans run as you grabbed on some sort of liquid item be removed.

For the transportation security station to carry on items that in this method you threw into clear quartsize zip lock bag from your flight as smoothly.

For the cabin of all of coffee or bottle of today it is the latest information on the many security procedures that have been implemented for an xraybrbrthe new air travel rules is.

Charlene C asked:



For few months by myself any group tours in oz and traveled solo appreciated.

For few months by myself any group travel on backpacking around australia for young people1930yrs im planning on budget hostelscampingand for few months by myself any group tours that offers group travel on backpacking around australia for young people1930yrs im planning.

For few months by myself any group tours that offers group travel on budget hostelscampingand for few months by myself any group travel on backpacking around australia.

AssociatedPress asked:

The government is opening up some military airspace to ease congestion on the airline's Thanksgiving and Christmas, but the effort is likely to have only limited results. (18 November)

Ryan Anderson asked:


Currently, many families have put their plans his holidays at the bottom of their priority list. During times more resistant, holidays may seem simply cost too much money. However, if you are thinking about going on vacation, you might want to look at work with a travel agent to save money on holiday costs. Working with a travel agent to plan your vacation means you may be able to afford the trip you thought you'd have to stay until next year. For this reason alone is definitely worth exploring the possibility. So how can working with a travel agent save money? Your travel agent will help you get the most out of your budgetWhether your travel budget is $ 500 or $ 5,000, working with a travel agent is probably the best way to make the most of your money. Especially if? of? youâ with reference to travel on a tight budget, skills, knowledge and experience of a travel agent can be invaluable. Just make sure when? of? youâ with reference to discuss travel plans with your broker, you are absolutely clear about how much money you have to spend. If you want to travel as cheaply as possible, make sure your travel agent understands this so they have a good idea of the types of travel and comfort to be found for you. Your travel agent can quickly access a number of agents providersTravel typically has access to a large network of travel, comfort, and activity providers. With the computer systems that provide access to travel agents worldwide can quickly locate the details of the discount travel providers in many countries. This is one of the main reasons that working with a travel agent is a good idea when the re? of? youâ on a strict budget. They have access to a wealth of diverse resources, software, and industry contacts that can be used to hunt down the best deals. Your travel agent knows that times cheaper travelSome days of travel are less expensive than other days. The Red-eye flights and flights standby may be less expensive, but direct flights can cost more than taking a roundabout route that involves several different connections. Your travel agent should be well informed in the process of all this and know that flights booked on Friday, Sunday and Monday is usually more expensive. You have a better chance of saving money on flights if? of? youâ with reference to flexible about your travel date. In addition, your travel agent can quickly tell you if your vacation plans fall within a peak season during which the flights to your destination more expensive. This means you can modify your travel plans if you wish. Changing plans can include a cheaper destination or travel during the off season to save money on your flight. Advance reservation is another factor that your travel agent can use to help you get cheap flights. You must book at least six months ahead to get the tickets more affordable. Your agent must tell you that the holiday season is always a relatively expensive time to travel, no matter how far in advance you book. Your travel agent has access to discounts and bulk? consolidated? ticketsIf youâ with reference to the wish to travel as part of an organized trip, your travel agent can help you access to travel and comfort. There are also specials for activities that are significantly cheaper than what you would if you did the same activities only. This is because as part of a trip you can take advantage of bulk discounts. You can even organize your own trip through your travel agent, and the organizer was able to get to travel for free! Consolidated Tickets provide you an opportunity to save on air transport costs. A ticket is simply a consolidated ticket that was purchased by the agent as part of a large group of tickets sold by the same airline. The agent gets a bulk discount on the tickets and can pass this discount on to their customers. Your travel agent has industry contacts and experienceThis translated into money that is put back into your pocket. Your travel agent can be in regular contact with many industry professionals, and might be able to get much on a trip that is planned by another agent. If? of? youâ with reference to flexible with travel times, your agent can advise you adjust your dates of travel to travel more expensive for part of the week, potentially saving hundreds of dollars in travel costs. An experienced agent should have expert knowledge of your travel destination and can advise on comfort and budget activities. The agent may often be able to offer discount coupons, free passes and other incentives. Best of all, none of these advantages come at a price! You can take full advantage of the wealth of knowledge and experience to your travel agent provides, and can potentially save a lot of money in the process.