travel agency partnership

How to Partner with Agents for Your Tourism Business

By Kevin Tjoe — 26 Nov 2018

distribution   tour operator   tourism business strategy   travel agents

Updated 20/05/2021 – Unless you are already well-established in the domestic market, it can be difficult to attract agents to your business and build successful partnerships with them. The good news is you can always work hard towards getting there. Here are the requirements agents seek, and how to grow a travel business by partnering with an agent.

1. Instant online booking confirmation

One of the biggest pains that agents experience when booking tours and activities is the length of time it takes to confirm bookings. Most tour operators offer a 24-hour turnaround time via email, but this is less ideal than an automated booking system .

Without a quick way to check your availability (in real time) and book with you, agents will be unable to confirm it with their customers immediately.  Instant booking confirmation allows you and your agents to offer better customer service. Bonus points for software like Rezdy that allows agents to log in and book directly. This is low hanging fruit to get agents to partner with your tourism business.

2. Successful domestic marketing strategy

The way you promote yourself in the domestic market will give your agents confidence that you know what you’re doing.

Even if you’re a small business that’s just starting out and pressed for resources, you can at least work on:

• Building your online reviews  on TripAdvisor, Google, and Facebook
• Partnering with Visitor Information Centers
• Networking at trade shows
• Partnering with OTAs (Online Travel Agencies)

It makes much more sense to figure out how to tackle the domestic market before venturing overseas. If you make a mistake, it will be less costly.

3. Awareness of how product fits into international markets

Once you have familiarised yourself with the local market, and where your tour or activity fits in to meet its needs, then you can start to think about meeting the needs of international markets.

Instead of rushing into it, research needs to be conducted to figure out what your competitors are doing, and whether a new tour product needs to be created to better suit the needs of those international markets.

For example, if you know that most Chinese travelers are interested in luxury and shoppin g, you can fit a stop at a local market into your itinerary.

There are a host of things to consider when partnering with overseas agents . Make sure you carefully assess who you are working with.

4. Understanding of commission rates

Commission is what matters most to agents, because it’s how they get paid. There are 2 types of rates; the retail rate (what customers pay), and the nett rate (what agents see to add their commission).

There are a few commission rate mistakes that you should avoid:

• Giving the same commission rate to different types of agents
• Giving only a 5% difference of commission between different types of agents
• Giving last minute bookings from online travel sites better rates than agents
• Having different domestic and international distribution rates

Distributors expect you to understand the industry standards for agent commission.

5. Quality assurance program

How do you make sure your tours are consistently delivered to a high standard? Agents need to see that this is a priority for you because they are to blame if customers have a bad time.

If people keep complaining to your agents then you can be sure that they won’t recommend you in the future, no matter how high your commission is.

If you enjoyed this article – How to get agents to partner with your tourism business– then follow the Rezdy  blog . There are a lot of marketing tools and resources designed with businesses like yours in mind.

Want to be more visible to agents? Rezdy’s Channel Manager will ensure you’re visible to hundreds of agents online. Start your free demo or trial  of  Rezdy  today.

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Travel agent partners and preferred suppliers.

To give your clients the best experience, and make sure you get rewarded too, it’s important to be partnered with a host agency that has strong industry connections and access to leading travel agent partners.

With KHM Travel Group, you’ll be able to take advantage of these benefits from the day you join. Learn more about our industry connections and supplier relationships from our Vice President of Agent Engagement Bill.

As a part of your setup and enrollment process , we give you the information you need to log into travel agent-only supplier websites and booking engines. This is how you’ll research trips, find pricing, and book travel for your clients. When you get started, we’ll even register you for some of these travel agent-only sites, so don’t have to waste any time before diving in.

In addition to earning more money because of our high sales volume, our personal relationships with our Preferred Suppliers allows our agents to take part in:

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• Bonus commission offers
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The Preferred Suppliers below represent the majority of KHM Travel Agents’ bookings. In addition to our 40+ Preferred Suppliers, KHM Travel Agents have access to hundreds of other travel suppliers to ensure they can find a vacation that will truly wow their clients.

In addition to these suppliers, KHM Travel Group is also a member of the following  industry and professional organizations :

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• CLIA – Cruise Lines International Association
• ARC – Airlines Reporting Corporation
• Travel Leaders Network – Our Consortia
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• PATH – Professional Association of Travel Hosts
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As the provider of the travel industry’s highest level of education, The Travel Institute offers a variety of educational and professional development opportunities including the Certified Travel Associate (CTA) program. Through our partnership with The Travel Institute, our agents also have access to special pricing and benefits for all levels of experience.

Additionally, current KHM Travel Group agents can learn more about our partnership with The Travel Institute in the Agent Portal .

Learn more about our programs  here or call our  Membership Team at 1-888-611-1220  with any other questions you may have!

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How to Partner With Fellow Tour Operators & Thrive

By Erick Tomaliwan

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Sometimes, the best partnerships in travel and tourism are just around the corner. Who else has the destination down pat? Other local tour and activity operators, of course.

Like yourself, they know the backroads, watering holes, hidden attractions, and reputable businesses — which means their guests also look to them for advice on where to eat, sleep, and what to do and see.

Wouldn’t it be nice if they recommended your tours as a must-book and vice versa? That’s why we’ve outlined what you need to know about teaming up with them— including:

• Why local strategic partnerships work
• How to partner with tour operators
• Brand collaboration examples to try

Benefits of collaborative marketing for tour operators

Online travel agents (OTAs) tend to get the most attention for partnership marketing — and rightfully so. Thanks to significant budget and resources, they dominate search rankings and online marketing campaigns. With them, it’s possible to promote your offerings on a mass scale.

But here’s the thing, your neighbours can be as good of partners — just in a different way. 

Unlike OTAs who are masters at digital marketing, your fellow tour operators are destination experts . That is to say — they’ve got the inside scoop over data. Naturally, travelers trust their suggestions because they know first-hand what a place uniquely offers. 

Plus, they have something OTAs don’t — in-person interaction. Their guides engage with the guests, getting to know them right down to likes and dislikes. If they bring you up, it’s likely because your tour matches a traveler’s interests. So although they don’t have the same reach, it’s made up ten-fold in credibility.

But there are other benefits of collaborative marketing beyond getting word-of-mouth referrals. Depending on the partnership, you can also:

• Attract more visitors by banding together to promote your destination
• Make bookings on behalf of each other with a low commission rate
• Elevate offerings by pairing two complementary experiences
• Save money on expenses — like sharing the cost of a shuttle service
• Give and receive mentorship from being in the same industry
• Boost your brand’s reputation through co-marketing and association 

Don’t get me wrong; you should still have an OTA marketing strategy . But in-destination bookings are rising, and we’re seeing offline partner bookings follow suit. So if you want to make it on last-minute bucket lists, it’s a good idea to build strong relationships in your tourism community as well. 

How to collaborate with other businesses in travel

Starting a partnership with a tour and activity operator is much different than listing on OTA sites. All you have to do is join Expedia Local Expert or TripAdvisor Experiences, whereas the other takes a bit longer to put into motion. An offline partnership requires an offline connection — laying the groundwork for the relationship first. 

In other words, it’s not something you can jump into on a trial basis. If you change your mind shortly after the handshake, you might come across as flaky, and potentially ruin your chance at future co-marketing opportunities within the community. So, you’ve got to be sure it’s a suitable partnership from the get-go. 

That said, let’s look at the steps for how to approach a business for collaboration, and how to partner with tour operators:

1. Figure out your goal

As you read earlier, there are plenty of ways you can benefit from local partnerships in travel and tourism. But covering everything right off the bat will only overwhelm both parties. So, it’s best to determine one thing to focus on before reaching out. 

Of course, that involves setting a goal — which is good practice for any marketing you do. Ask yourself, what do you hope to gain from this partnership? Is it brand awareness, positive publicity, new customers, unique offerings, or something else?

For whatever you come up with, outline your plan next. How are you going to reach that goal with another operator? Does it only need a few posters in their ticket office, or will it require you to set up a partner account ? 

I suggest starting with small, achievable goals. That way, both of you will get a feel for working together, and if everything goes well, move onto bigger collaborations. And soon, a strategic partnership will be underway. 

2. Find common ground

Once you know what you want out of the partnership, you can figure out what you’re looking for in a partner. Just like dating, it’s best to be selective. Or else, there’s no point in going to all that effort if it’s only meant to be a short-term relationship.

To help you find a suitable match, make a list of deal-breakers and must-haves. The better you stick to this during the search phase, the more likely you’ll end up with a long-lasting partnership. 

Not sure what to put down? Here are some ideas:

• Same target audience: you want their customers to dig your tours and the other way around.
• Similar core values: who you associate with reflects who you are as a business. Don’t ruin your reputation by working with a company that operates in a way you strongly disagree with, nor can get behind. 
• Not a direct competitor: this is common sense unless you’re okay with taking this advice too far, “keep your friends close and your enemies closer.”
• Similar niche: the pairing should make sense. For example, a kayak tour company goes well with a SUP rental shop. Both are water-sports related. 
• Positive reviews: if their guests are happy, you can be confident in referring your own to them. Plus, it shows they know how to provide a good experience, so their stamp of approval will mean a lot. 
• High customer engagement: check out their social media profiles. Do they post frequently and get a bunch of likes and comments? If so, you’ll see better results from your social media co-marketing strategies.
• Quality content: that said, make sure they do a good job marketing their tours and activities because your brand will be part of future campaigns. 
• Good references: if possible, ask other businesses what it’s like to work with them. Do they follow through with promises? Do they often give pushback to new ideas? Can they be trusted overall?

3. Build a relationship

Not surprisingly, you might be acquainted with the tour and activity operator you want to team up with. After all, they’re in the same location, so you’ve probably run into them a couple a hundred times — whether you know it or not.

But even if you’re on a first-name basis, shared a few conversations, or played against each other in softball, you still need to work up to pitching a partnership agreement. Rather than sending a cold email, it’s better to build rapport over time. That way, they’ll be more comfortable saying yes because they already know and trust you. 

Of course, it can be intimidating to break the ice — especially if you’ve never met them. Luckily, there are easy ways to do this without awkwardly showing up to their ticket office, saying hi out of the blue, and leaving your business card. Although, that also works. 

On LinkedIn, you can add them as a connection, and send a friendly message introducing yourself. If they don’t have a profile, see if they set up a booth at community events or trade shows, and pop over for a quick hello. Or if you really want to show interest, book one of their activities with your family, and tell them you had an amazing time. 

When they officially know who you are, and what your tour company does, ask to go for a coffee. Preface it as a chance to connect over your shared experience of running a tourism business. But for yourself, use it as an opportunity to find out whether they meet your guidelines for a potential partner. 

You might have to meet up for a few coffees, and occasional dinners, before bringing up a collaboration deal. You’ll know when the time is right. 

4. Know your value

Collaborative marketing is a two-way street. That means they have to get something out of it, too. So what do you bring to the table? Whatever you hope to gain from working with them, are you able to provide the same, or something else, in return?

It’s important to know this information beforehand since there’s a good chance they’ll ask. And if they don’t, still work it into the pitch because it will show you’re a valuable partner, and you want what’s best for them, too. But take it easy, you don’t have to spill your entire business plan to them. 

After a little back and forth, you’ll hopefully land on win-win strategy. Just be honest about what you’re looking for — don’t settle out of fear of losing them. Also, stay open to their ideas. Who knows, they might have something better in mind. 

And if you agree on including referral bookings as part of the plan, make sure to look up average tour operator commission rates . That should give you an idea for where to start the negotiation so you can still make a profit when rewarding them for new business. 

5. Nurture the relationship

Like any relationship, you have to put in the time and effort for it to last. So while you move forward with the co-marketing plan, here are some things you can do to keep the partnership alive and well:

• Hold monthly meetings: this allows you to check-in without bugging them daily. Here, you can talk about campaign metrics, what’s going well, and what else you can try together. 
• Keep your end up: if you want them to follow through with their promise, you have to be willing to do the same. Set an example by working hard to carry out what you said you would. 
• Stay in touch: it doesn’t always have to be about bookings. Make a habit of asking how business is going for them and offering advice as needed. 
• Show appreciation: small gestures go along way. Give their team a shareable gift on holidays — like chocolate or baking — and send a thank-you card. 

Ideas for local partnerships in travel and tourism

There are many co-marketing tactics you can try with another tour and activity operator. Since you’re relatively nearby, it’s not too much trouble to quickly meet up, re-evaluate, and swap in something different if one doesn’t work out. So you can be as creative as you want, or keep it simple. It’s up to you.

But as I mentioned before, it’s best to start small and go from there. So if you’re struggling with where to begin, here are some easy-to-implement brand collaboration examples:

1. Host an event or contest

It’s likely you’ll have a couple of experiences that go hand in hand — especially if you fall into a similar category, or take guests to the same areas. Check what items go well together, and create a package anyone can win. Then share the contest on social media to generate buzz, and get access each other’s followers. 

For example, let’s say you offer a guided hike along a coastal trail and they provide an ocean kayaking adventure. Both are exciting on their own, but better if combined. The prize package would be something like kayaking to the trail, having a beach picnic, going on the hike, and kayaking back. 

Another option is to host an event together. With the same example, it’s safe to assume both tour companies care about ocean conservation. As an event then, you could collectively round up the community for a beach clean-up. Not only would this get positive publicity, but it’d also boost brand awareness with the locals. 

2. Offer a special incentive

Most travelers love to save money on trips — hence all the online travel deals. As a co-marketing campaign, you can give guests a discount code to use when booking tours and activities with your partner. Since people are more likely to buy something with a coupon, this will be the extra boost they need to try a different experience. 

3. Display marketing materials

It’s never a bad idea to try out traditional advertising methods as well. By putting up posters on the front desk or keeping a pamphlet holder next to the debit machine, guests can get ideas for things to do while waiting in the lobby. Just make sure your website URL is easy to spot, so they know where to find more information if interested.

4. Let them go for free

If guides are going to promote another tour or activity, they’ll be more convincing if they had the experience themselves. That’s because they can go into detail about where they went, what they saw, what they did, and how they felt. Plus, stories are incredibly effective at persuading someone to make a booking — thanks to the fear of missing out (FOMO). 

To give their guides something to talk about, as well as your own, let each other’s employees go for free. So long as it’s last minute to ensure the tour doesn’t reach full capacity and they take the place of a paying guest. 

5. Mention in emails

With collaborative content marketing, you can go down many different routes — like guest posting, social media shout-outs, video promotions, and much more. But for starters, try signing off thank-you emails with a recommendation. 

Here’s an example: 

Thank you for booking our coastal hiking tour. We hope you had an amazing time and spotted a sea lion or two! If you want to see the cliffs from a different point of view — AKA the ocean — book a kayaking adventure with our friends over at White Caps Tours.  

You can customize and automate the message, so it sends with the right tour. Just remember to include a link or call-to-action button in the email body, and have your partner do the same. 

6. Start a collective

Why partner with one, when you can work as a group? It might be a good idea to  set up a cooperative  of some sort with all of the different tour and activity operators in your area. There are many  benefits of business collectives , including sharing a website, marketing costs, and resources. But the number one benefit is the referral power it can generate when every member agrees to pass the business on  —  which brings us to the next point. 

7. Make bookings for each other

As you can see, there’s a lot you can do with your fellow tour and activity operators — we’ve barely scratched the surface. But the best idea yet is making it possible for either company to book on behalf of the other. 

With partner accounts, both teams can quickly go into a private dashboard and book for guests wanting another incredible experience. Might as well turn those co-marketing campaigns and collaborations into conversions.

Guest what — our booking software supports partner accounts and they’re easy to set up.

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Are you a Tour Operator looking to increase your business without adding additional resources? Are you interested in becoming part of an organization that benefits from the buying power of combined annual sales of more than $75 million? Would you like your company to stand out from the crowd? Then we want you to consider becoming a TAP Partner!

We Value Our Tour Operator Partners

TAP began in 2001 with a simple vision – to join forces with quality Tour Operators who each offered their own area of geographical expertise, aiming to fill more scheduled departures, reduce cancellations and expand product portfolios.

As a company, TAP seeks like-minded North American Tour Operators with global reach who will enhance the corporation through product, location and services. TAP, a limited liability corporation, distinguishes itself from associations and organizations by collaborating with reputable and strategic-thinking travel professionals, while focusing on their return on investment.

By purchasing product from TAP Partners, each Tour Operator can spend more time generating new customers and less time on product development.

Why Join TAP?

From lower costs to more diverse offerings, here’s what makes becoming a TAP Partner so valuable for tour operators:

Wider Audience

TAP’s industry-wide partnership includes tour operators, travel buyers (travel agents and group leaders) and suppliers (hotels, attractions, methods of transportation and destinations). This network of travel professionals is behind the concept of increasing profits by working together through TAP.

Each Tour Operator Partner has full access to trusted travel professionals who focus on respect and buying from each other. Preferred Professional Travel Providers (PPTPs, TAP’s elite suppliers) have access to the TAP network of tour operators and help create dynamic tour packages for the travel buyer. TAP Partners utilize PPTPs to support and move market share for those that support TAP. Travel buyers offer these dynamic tour packages to their clients, giving them a wide range of quality product while increasing sales for TAP Partners.

Lower Costs and Increased Profits

Experience lower operational costs and reduced rates due to our corporate high-volume buying power. Partners will also see increased profits through product placement on tapintotravel.com and the opportunity to secure even more bookings by embedding TAP tours directly onto your website. Instead of being a company all on your own, you’ll have dozens of team members working with you. A generous commission is given for all sales of Partners’ tours.

Partners also see increased sales through TAP’s Preferred Travel Buyers. These sellers of travel located throughout North America, tap into TAP tours to offer the best in global travel products to their clients. Buyers are invited to Partner-led weekly educational webinars on TAP products and industry trends. Travel Buyers are eligible to receive commission if they have sales as a result of featuring embedded TAP tours on their website.

Valuable Peer Network

Participate in Partner to Partner networking opportunities and learn from industry peers. As specialists in many areas, TAP Partners share ideas and best practices without the threat of competition.

Diverse Offerings

Becoming a TAP Partner instantly broadens your tour offerings without adding the extra resources to develop new products. Your clients will be pleased with tour packages that have a unique niche or destination not currently available in your product offerings. You will also be able to offer a wide array of Guaranteed Departure tours. TAP Partners trust that their clients will enjoy the travel experience as though it were their own tour and do not have to worry about losing a client to a competitor.

Are you ready to increase your tour offerings without increasing your operational costs? Become a TAP Tour Operator Partner today to get access to a wider audience, reduced corporate rates, the power of partnership and more.

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Partner List

Our partners range from companies that offer small group adventure tours to itineraries where sports fans can go to satisfy their passion for the game. TAP is growing each year with new Partners who continue to move TAP forward as a travel industry leader and innovator. Check out the current TAP Partners below!

President: Kim Vance www.advancetourandtravel.com Contacts: Kim Vance, President 800-346-7706 ext 305 [email protected] Partner Profile: We are a full-service receptive tour...

AdVance Tour and Travel

www.andersonvacations.ca Contacts: Jim Warren 308-234-4348 [email protected] Partner Profile: Canada’s premier tour operator of FIT, Escorted and Custom touring in Canada,...

Anderson Vacations

President: Richard Arnold Web Address: www.atlantictours.com Contacts: Richard Arnold Director of Sales 800-565-7173, ext. 232 [email protected] Partner Profile: Atlantic Tours...

Atlantic Tours Limited

Contact: Carla Meierotto (319) 753-2864 ex. 176 [email protected] Partner Profile: With a full scope of tours, Burlington Trailways offers touring...

Burlington Trailways

www.customholidaysonline.com Contacts: Sue Biggs (313)388-0448 [email protected] Wendy Baggett (313)388-0448 [email protected] Partner Profile: Custom Holidays serves all of southeastern Michigan with...

Custom Holidays

www.durgantravel.com Contact: Richard Durgan (781) 438-2224 [email protected] Partner Profile: We are an award-winning European tour operator. We can customize a...

Durgan Travel Service

www.ed-ventures.com Contact: Shannon Larsen (507) 289-3332 [email protected] Partner Profile: Ed-Ventures specializes in customized group tours to 6 continents. If you...

Ed-Ventures Inc.

President: Mike Kasmauskis www.imagetours.com Contacts: Justin Osbon 616-957-1010 [email protected] Partner Profile: Image Tours is an escorted Europe specialist and has...

Image Tours Inc.

www.makingmemoriestours.com Contacts: Jerry & Angie Varner 1-888-845-9582 [email protected] [email protected]   Partner Profile: Making Memories Tours was opened in Washburn, MO...

Making Memories Tours

www.MapleLeafTours.com Contact:  Kristine Geary (613) 384-0012 [email protected] Partner Profile: Established in 2016 and based out of Kingston in Ontario, Canada,...

Maple Leaf Tours

Owner & General Manager: Eric Rosenberg www.pleasurebenttours.com   Primary Contact: Eric Rosenberg (520) 325-8839 [email protected]   Partner Profile: Since 1978,...

Pleasurebent Tours

President: Shebby Lee www.shebbyleetours.com Contact:  Shebby Lee (605) 343-4852 [email protected] Partner Profile: Shebby Lee Tours is a receptive operator specializing...

Shebby Lee Tours Inc.

www.shenandoahtours.com Contact:  Steve Everidge (540) 885-1528 [email protected]   Partner Profile: Shenandoah Tours is entering its 47th year of operation. We...

Shenandoah Tours

www.southwestadventuretours.com Contact: Jason Murray (435) 590-5864 [email protected] Partner Profile: As a Receptive Tour Operator, we provide individuals and groups with...

Southwest Adventure Tours

www.sportstravelandtours.com Contact: Jay Smith (413) 247-7678 [email protected] Partner Profile: Sports Travel and Tours is where sports fans can go to...

Sports Travel and Tours

www.suntoursus.com Contact: Eric Rosenberg (312) 925-2648 [email protected] Partner Profile: Sun Tours offers the world in worry-free comfort. Our travelers are...

https://duagency.com/ Contact: Aimee Langlas [email protected] Duane Jasper [email protected] Anne Jasper [email protected] Partner Profile: Travel Leaders / Destinations Unlimited plans and...

Travel Leaders / Destinations Unlimited

www.tristatetravel.com Contact: Andrew Hillard (815) 777-0820 [email protected] Partner Profile: We are a multi-dimensional company with 71 years of experience in...

Tri-State Travel

www.twintravelconcepts.com Contacts: Nicholas Calderazzo, CTP 917-575-6600 [email protected] Partner Profile: Twin Travel Concepts custom-designs group tour programs throughout North America. We...

Twin Travel Concepts

www.wadetours.com Contact: Crystal DeLorenzo (518) 355-4500 [email protected] Partner Profile: Wade Tours & Travel, a family owned business since 1926, serving...

Wade Tours & Travel

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"By collaborating with Expedia Group, we are now marketing one of the largest hotel portfolios in the B2B market nationwide, and our sales volume has grown to put us in the top three businesses in the segment.”

Mr. Katsumi Sakurai

Executive Officer/GM/Destination Management, TSD, Inc.

“Our listing performance with Vrbo this year over last year is not even comparable. We’re seeing a significant increase in bookings. And the guests we get from Vrbo are high quality. We know they will look after the property.”

Lucio Cocchietto

Vacation rental owner, Chilling Lakeside on Lake Macquarie

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Building a Strong Partnership with Your Host Agency for Business Growth

Are you contemplating a career as a travel agent or already working as one? If so, you know the value of a reliable host agency like Gateway Travel. These agencies are the backbone of a travel agent's career, offering resources, guidance, support, and crucial industry connections.

In an increasingly competitive landscape, establishing a robust, efficient partnership with your host agency is essential for driving business growth. This blog connects you with insights on how you can nurture such a relationship, incorporating aspects of partnership building, efficient communication, and seamless collaboration.

1. Understanding the Role of a Host Agency in Business Growth

The travel agency ecosystem is complex and multifaceted. As a travel agent, to successfully navigate this eco-system, you need the support of a dependable host agency. Gateway Travel has been the travel industry's benchmark for providing travel agents with the tools and support they need to evolve. More than that, however, they are a partner, helping to facilitate business growth for their agents.

The agency's role in your business's evolution cannot be underestimated. Apart from offering access to travel products, industry relationships, and crucial back-end tools, these agencies also provide essential training opportunities. These keys open up paths to successful selling tactics, comprehensive product knowledge, and nurturing strategies for customer relationships.

2. Developing a Beneficial Partnership Building Strategy

The ' partnership ' in 'host agency partnership' is not a term to be taken lightly. The effectiveness of this relationship directly impacts your business productivity and profitability. Building a fruitful partnership, therefore, is not a one-off chance occurrence but a strategic process.

A viable partnership building strategy begins with determining what you want from the partnership. Examine your business needs and scope of services you can handle independently, then consider where you need support. Next, communicate these requirements clearly to your host agency. Remember, the agency is there to help you.

3. The Importance of Efficient Communication

In any relationship, communication is key. The partnership between you and your host agency is no exception. Regular, clear, efficient communication contributes significantly to the strength of your partnership. Keeping your host agency in the loop about your business operations, successes, and challenges allows them to align their support effectively with your needs.

This communication is not only about reporting or troubleshooting; it's about active engagement. By staying in touch consistently, you get to access the latest industry developments, opportunities, and strategies. Remember, your host agency has access to insights and experiences from a broad network of travel agents. This wealth of knowledge can be pivotal for your business growth.

4. The Power of Seamless Collaboration

Any successful partnership thrives on collaboration. An effective collaboration means leveraging each other's strengths, filling in the gaps, and moving together towards a common goal – business growth. You, as a travel agent, must nurture this collaboration with your host agency.

Gateway Travel understands the power of seamless collaboration. Through their online agent portal, they offer the platform and resources to collaborate efficiently with travel agents. Be it commission tracking, marketing resources, or co-branded websites – the portal simplifies collaboration and aids in your business advancement.

Remember, a partnership should always be a two-way street. Don't just ask for support and resources but provide feedback and suggestions. Your on-field experiences and client interactions can provide valuable inputs for the host agency to improve their offerings and operations.

5. Nurtifying Your Partnership For Positive Business Growth

Above all, remember that a good partnership, like any relationship, takes time and effort to build and maintain. So, be patient, proactive, focused, and committed. Remember that your success as a travel agent is linked to the success of your host agency and vice versa.

Indeed, through nurturing this valuable partnership, efficient communication, and seamless collaboration, Gateway Travel and other host agencies can be instrumental in powering your travel agency business growth. The path to success in the travel industry need not be a solitary one. With the right host agency partnership, the journey is not just easier, but also more fruitful and enjoyable.

Recent Posts

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Partnerships Are Essential to Growth in the Travel Industry

Connect Worldwide Contributor

The ability to reach audiences, attract awareness, excite interest, and convert it into action can be a significant challenge—particularly in the age of competition for tourism dollars strengthening around the world.

Today the most successful companies build bridges, and the selection of strategic partners with whom to collaborate is becoming more and more important.

Partnership is usually defined as a voluntary collaborative agreement between two or more parties in which all participants agree to work together to achieve a common purpose or undertake a specific task and to share risks, responsibilities, resources, competencies and benefits. Partnerships are what enable many travel companies to grow . By sharing with others, hotel companies, airlines, cruise lines, destinations and car rental companies can direct resources and capabilities to revenue improvement projects and growth ambitions.

At Connect Worldwide, we believe that meaningful partnerships are the foundation for success. Partnerships are what enable our company and our clients to make continuous improvements. Through these strategic partnerships, we can direct resources and capabilities to generate revenue for our clients.

Connect Worldwide maximizes your destination’s tourism budget by building strategic partnerships and combining marketing efforts into one coherent voice. A like-minded partnership approach to marketing provides greater strength, unity, and leveraged results, which will more effectively market the destination together when compared to individual efforts. We go beyond the traditional partner selection and bring in potential partners from other industries to maximize impact and sustainability.

Connect Worldwide successfully partners with companies such as Choice Hotels , Royal Resorts, Paradores Hoteles, Utell, Las Vegas, Houston, etc. for the development of tourism and hotel revenue and is looking for additional representation partnerships. Recent travel industry partnership examples are Marriott and Cosmopolitan Resort Las Vegas, Pegasus and HP, Southwest and Volaris, Vacation.com and Tauck, Disney and Alamo, United and Air Canada, and British Airways and Iberia.

When two parties leverage their assets, resources, expertise, client base etc. for the mutual benefit of both, partnering results in synergies.  Contact us to learn more.

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5 Ideas For Forming Partnerships and Growing Your Tour Business

How to partner with other businesses in the travel industry to grow your tour business.

When running a tour business it always crucial to grow your partner network , increase your client base ,  increase sales , and promote your tours and activities . In this blog post, we’re going to go over the five partnership ideas to grow your tour business .

Namely, partnering up means a chance to meet and work with other people within the tourism industry, or even from your niche. Making new acquaintances means growing your business network. It also means both sides get a chance to, hopefully, learn something new and exchange ideas , experience , and knowledge .

Why Are Business Partnerships Important?

New tour companies, travel agencies, and tour guide businesses are emerging at a rapid pace. In that sea of startups, it’s important to use partnerships with other businesses in your field to your advantage. And that can work magic — building trust and gathering references .

When you’re running a successful tour business and you have returning, satisfied clients, word travels fast. That word of the mouth also works when two similar businesses partner up and refer clients to one another because they’re earned the client’s trust. And your partners will do the same for you.

Partnership Ideas To Grow Your Tour Business

Here are some suggestions and ideas who should you partner with, what are the benefits of such investments, and more.

Get In Touch With Hotels and Hostels

Let’s say you offer various two-day city tours. It’s in your best interest to sell more tours and for your clients to have a nice place to stay.

Surely you will sell more tours if your potential clients can book your tour as well as accommodation, all at once from your website. You can offer it like a special package. That way, tourists don’t have to worry about where to stay or about your tour being a two-day experience. It’s a win-win situation since even the hotel makes a profit.

Of course, you could always make some sort of a deal with the hotel or hostel (depends on your preferences and their cooperation) and offer a special price or a discount if tourists book the accommodation through your website. Also, you could arrange with the reception at the hotel for them to offer your tours and activities to their guests. It this case, the hotel/hostel acts as a reseller.

There are so many opportunities to build a business together or at least, collaborate on different levels through various business proposals. You just have to get in touch with the people in charge and come up with a business plan that benefits both sides.

Expand your network and your opportunities. Nurture those partnerships.

Work With a Travel Blogger

There are many travel bloggers whose popularity, great writing skills and audience you could use to promote your tour business. Establishing a short-term partnership with a travel blogger can boost your marketing efforts.

• Best Digital Marketing Practices in Tourism

More and more people are going online to read up on different reviews. Then they decide which tour to book, where to travel, which sites to visit, and so on.

Also, people don’t really have the time to dig what their next destination or activity is going to be. Tourists prefer recommendations and a famous travel blogger with a large following could help promote your destination, activity, or travel company.

Now, imagine a travel blogger posting an amazing blog with his/her experience regarding your tour.

In the blog, the travel blogger includes stunning photos which paint a picture for any travel-lover sitting behind his/her desk. It motivates people to reach out and book the same activity.

• The Top 50 Travel Blogs

A skillful travel blogger can increase your brand awareness and spread a few good words about how awesome tours and activities your tour business offers. And not just that, if you really run a quality business, it will be recognized and good reviews will come pouring in.

Don’t forget to share that blog post on your social media as well.

How to find notable travel bloggers who will be interested in partnering with you?

Do your research. Find out what your audience likes.

• How to Make sure Travel Bloggers are Right for your Tour Business? [Checklist]

Browse the Internet, search through Instagram, go on different forums, for example, Reddit, ask around, and check out the most popular travel bloggers and their websites. Then offer something in return.

Whether it’s a free tour, a discount, or you offer to pay for the content – be sure to get to know the travel blogger you are going to be working with, and that you arrange all the details beforehand.

Find an Influencer

Finding an influencer is very similar to finding a travel blogger, however, your influencer can be a chef for example like the late Anthony Bourdain. Or a journalist, a travel enthusiast, media personality, a YouTuber, photographer, etc.

For example, if you team up with a well-known local photographer, you get breath-taking photos in return.

• 25 Awesome Instagram Travel Photographers You Need To Follow

Successful influencers get a lot of media attention and they could use this to say a few good things about your tour business.

Connect With Local DMOs

Destination marketing organizations (DMOs) are always looking for additional partnerships and ways to cooperate in order to spread the word about their destination.

Their main goal is to raise awareness about a certain travel destination and your goal is to expand your client base. If you can convince DMOs to offer your tour services to tourists who pop in their offices or visit their website, then, you, my friend, have the work cut out for you.

For starters, go join your local DMO and see what you can offer them. Negotiate. Try to find the best deal that will benefit you both. Let’s be honest, DMOs can increase your sales without you having to do much work. However, have in mind that doing business with DMOs is a long-term strategy. It takes time for you to see the results.

Team Up With Local Restaurants, Bars, Wineries, Museums, or Art Galleries

What a better way to find mutual ground with, for instance, local restaurants or wineries , then to partner with them? If you run a food tour, that’s an amazing idea!

See what’s nearby. Research what kind of tours you can create, whether it’s wine tours, beer tours or various food tours. Then contact nearby wineries. Make a proposal. Tell them you plan on organizing a tour and that you’re interested in taking the group to their winery.

Here’s an idea:

Choose whether you’re going to visit one winery or include a few in your tour.

Tourists love to visit new destinations, of course. And while they are there, what they want the most is to try different local dishes and beverages.

• Enrich Your Tour Operator Business With These 6 Beverage Tours

There is, of course, one other type of partnership which I saved for the end of this article.

You should be confident in your business strategy when running your tour business and own up to the task to form a partnership with other tour operators . If nothing else, to enhance your services, find new ideas, and level up. Find new ways to form long-lasting partnerships.

Virtual reality and augmented reality are becoming increasingly popular in the travel industry. Have you considered partnering up with a gadget-related company?

• Advantages of Virtual Reality in the Travel Industry: How to Integrate VR in Your Tours and Activities

It’s always important to be sure that any business you partner up with fits in with your brand.

About Orioly

So we’ve mentioned you will increase your income if you partner up with other businesses.

But, you know what can get you more online bookings instantly? Orioly!

Orioly is a SaaS booking and distribution software built for tour operators, activity providers, and small travel agencies.

Our online booking solution takes away the headache of having to deal with administrative tasks all day long. It allows you to focus on priorities—efficient sales.

Orioly comes with a fully-featured 30-day free trial .

Sign up for your free trial or contact us if you would like a custom quote!

ORIOLY on June 12, 2018

by Lidija Šomodi

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Comprehensive Guide on Digital Marketing in Tourism for 2021

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Travel Agency Business Structures: How to Choose

Let me be brutally honest: there’s no silver bullet regarding which travel agency business structures are best. Really, the best person for you to chat with on this is your tax person or travel attorney . But … while you’re waiting for them to call back (cue elevator muzak), I’ve got some pretty handy information for you. 😊

Here’s how this is gonna go down:

• Call/email your tax person to set up a time to chat on the best business structure for your situation. Don’t have one? You’ll want to find one. A great tax person is invaluable to your new travel agency and can help you save moola on your taxes .
• We’ll chat on the different types of travel agency business structures available and the pros/cons of each.
• You’re going to do a Happy Dance (and I’ll do the background singing… it’s gonna be so great!!).

Despite the latest COVID variant, we don't think you should throw in the towel on starting a travel agency. Here's why.

First Things First: Laying The Foundation

Before we even get our hands dirty with travel agency business structures, let's do a quick primer:

1. DBA (Doing Business As):

While DBA is not a type of business structure, it’s worth reviewing because I’ll be throwing around this acronym a lot. Why? Because most Sole Proprietors will need to file a DBA, and with the other business structures you’ll need to file a DBA when using any business name other than the legal business name.

Most Sole Proprietors will need to file a DBA, and with the other business structures you’ll need to file a DBA when using a business name other than the legal business name.

To understand the purpose of a DBA, we have to step back a bit. Let’s look at this scenario: I’m Steph Lee, owner of Host Agency Reviews. When my advertisers pay me, they don’t make the check out to Steph Lee, they make it out to Host Agency Reviews. When I go to cash those checks, the bank has to somehow know Steph Lee and Host Agency Reviews are the same, right? (And the government wants to know the person behind the business for obvious reasons.) A DBA lets 'em know that I'm the wizard behind the curtain.

That’s where our handy dandy DBA filing comes in! When you open your business bank account, you will likely be required to provide a DBA to prove that you’re the person the money should be going to.

The other thing to know is that the DBA is called different things in different places. In Canada, O/A (Operating As) or T/A (Trading As) are DBA's equivalents. In the US, "trade name," "assumed business name," and "fictitious business name" are all are just synonyms for DBA. *Sigh.* Bureaucracy. 🙂

Note: Every state/province has different rules on DBAs so it’s best to contact your local Small Business Administration (SBA) office or local Canada Business Network for some guidance.

2. FEIN: 

Federal Employee Identification Number (sometimes referred to as an "EIN") is a 9-digit number Uncle Sam uses to identify businesses in the US. For a Sole Proprietor, you don’t technically need a FEIN  unless the IRS’ says so . But here’s a little secret . . . get one anyway! Here’s why:

• If you don’t have an FEIN, you’ll be using your social security number. Now, you don’t want your social security number floating all over, do you?
• Many host agencies require that you have a FEIN number in order to sign up.

The FEIN application doesn’t take long to fill out and—this is one thing the IRS is quick about— your brand spankin' new FEIN is issued immediately on the site! Plus, it’s free! So why the heck not?! 

3. Tax Professionals Are Your Friend: 

I'm serious. Go get one right now. Finding a good one is like dating. Ask your friends to set you up with a good one. You might run into some doozies, but you'll find love soon enough. 

For those of you that are all about reading ahead and want extra credit, we have a few tax resources on the site about estimated taxes and travel expenses .

Getting to Know the Types of Travel Agency Business Structures:  

Okay, let’s start from the ground up. What types of legal travel agency business structures are out there for your new biz? There’s a few options here in the United States and Canada:

• Sole Proprietor
• LLC (Limited Liability Corporation)
• Partnership
• Corporation (S. Corp) 

Let’s start with the least expensive and simplest to implement, then we’ll work our way up. 

1. SOLE PROPRIETOR

A Sole Proprietor is the easiest business structure to set up and has a sole owner . . . you! It’s easy to implement because you don't have to mess with the legal paperwork that comes with setting up a separate business entity. You and your business are like conjoined twins. SCORE!

There’s a dark side to that, of course (beyond sharing organs). Because you and your business are one and the same in the eyes of the government, that translates to two potential downers for you:

• You’re held responsible for any debt of your company. (Bankruptcy!!! Oh no!) 
• If someone names your company in a lawsuit—bad news—that means they’re also suing you as an individual. 

Quick reminder:  Sole Prop. requirements vary by location so check out NOLO.com’s state-by-state guide to setting up a Sole Proprietor for specifics on what you need to get set up in your state. And remember, you're probably going to need that DBA we talked about earlier.

Tax Note: As a Sole Proprietor, while you and your business are seen as one entity, you’re still a business and that has certain responsibilities . . . Like filing quarterly estimated taxes ! You aren’t paying income tax, but you do pay self-employment tax (those are your estimated taxes).

2. LIMITED LIABILITY CORPORATION  (LLC)

Now we’re getting into the big time—we’ve added the word Corporation to our business structure! YAY!

Sadly, with the word Corporation, comes big(ger) price tags. The cost of an LLC filing is typically around $100-200 but states like California charge an additional $800 tax on top of the filing fee. But here's an olive branch! You’re getting personal liability protection! But, more sad news—I hate to put you on a roller coaster ride here—you'll pay a price for that personal liability protection with more paperwork and higher administrative costs.

Some things you should prepare to do to set up your travel agency's LLC:

• Set up a FEIN
• File your Articles of Incorporation (don’t be scared, it’s super easy)
• Create an Operating Agreement (I can’t lie; this one is not as fun)
• Publish a public notice (only for some states)

NOLO.com has a fabulous state-by-state guide on how to form an LLC you’ll definitely want to take a gander at it. It has pricing, the exact steps to file your Article of Incorporation, and tells you whether your state has any publication requirements, and loads more! I heart it. 

For most of the readers of our site, if you started as a Sole Proprietor/Partnership and your agency is successful, chances are you’ll be transitioning to an LLC down the road so bookmark this article!

Two Quick Tips:

1. An LLC provides personal liability protection, but not if you use your social security number or personal financial information to obtain financing or credit.

2. LLC owners do not need to be US citizens or permanent residents because an LLC travel agency business structure does not have residency requirements. This is something for folks who don’t have a permanent US residency or citizenship will want to note!  

Yet Another Tax Note:

Your business income and expenses are reported on your personal tax return. If you’re a single-member LLC, you are viewed as a “disregarded” entity. This means that when tax time comes, you report the LLC’s income/expenses in a Schedule C ─the same schedule used by Sole Proprietors.

If you think I talk a big game on taxes here, you should see the tax and finance course I created for ASTA!

3. PARTNERSHIP

A Partnership actually isn't a business structure, it's more of a business type. Anytime you have two or more business partners, you're going to be looking at a partnership.

If you have a Sole Proprietor set up with more than one owner, it's called a General Partnership. Weird. I know. Like a Sole Proprietorship, a General Partnership is easy to set up. Again, the downside is that the law views you and your business as the same entity so you are both held personally liable for any debts of your company. So if your partner makes bad choices, that will come back to you.

An LLP not only limits your personal liability for the debts of the business, but it also limits your liability for any wrongdoings of your partners.

Now, what if you don't quite want to be an LLC, but you want more personal protection than what you'd find with a General Partnership? That's where the Limited Liability Partnership (LLP) comes in. Not all states have this option but it essentially limits your personal liability. And what's important here is that an LLP not only limits your personal liability for the debts of the business, but it also limits your liability for any wrongdoings of your partners.

When you're looking at an LLC structure but have more than one owner, you've now entered the territory of an LLC with the tax classification of a Partnership.

Let’s go verbatim with the IRS site here, “A Partnership must file an annual information return to report the income, deductions, gains, losses, etc., from its operations, but it does not pay income tax.” 1 The profits/loss of your company will “pass-through” to your personal tax return and you pay those pesky estimated taxes  in lieu of income tax.

If setting up a partnership, I’d recommend talking to other entrepreneurs that have experience with partnerships and ask them what they wished they’d known going in. If you don’t know anyone involved in a partnership, check out this Entrepreneur article . Or, Google has all sorts of advice just waiting for you. 😊

Also, I highly, highly encourage you to spend the money on a travel attorney and have them write up a partnership agreement . Like a marriage, taking a business partner should not be taken lightly! Your attorney can also help walk you through the process and offer some sage advice!

Find HAR's list of travel industry attorneys here.

4. S. CORPORATION  & C. Corporation

Because only ~.00001% of readers on the site might find this useful, I'm going to breeze through, offering a little background info for S. Corp. business models.

"S. Corp" refers to, "the provisions allotting S status to companies are enumerated in Subchapter S of Chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code." 2 Wow, that really clarifies things, doesn't it? Here's what you really need to know about an S. Corp . . . it's not really a business structure, it's a tax designation

I'm not trying to pull one over on you by including info on S. Corp in an article dedicated to travel agency business structures. The benefit to some agencies of an S Corp taxation status is that the company only pays self-employment taxes on the owner’s salary . With S Corps, any profits left in the business or distributed to shareholders are not subject to the 15.3% self-employment taxes. That adds up!

Sounds dreamy eh? Well just remember that you'll need to factor in additional costs of unemployment insurance, payroll administration fees, more complicated taxes and in some states, and additional fees for being an S Corp.

Wondering if it makes financial sense to change from being taxed as a single-member LLC to being taxed as an S Corp? Or do you have 100+ shareholders and need to think about a C. Corp? If that’s you, stop reading right now and call an attorney pronto to make sure it’s done correctly (ahem, not consulting me 🙂). So, let’s not waste any more time on this!

Deciding on a Travel Agency Business Structure: Questions to Ask

A Sole Proprietor will be the best fit for most of our readers because it’s a nice stepping stone into the world of entrepreneurship. That said, maybe you want to explore it more. What’s the difference between the business structures? I think the easiest way to look at it is to keep in mind that structures differ by:

• how much personal liability protection do they offer you?
• how much they’re going to cost?
• how much work they are to start/upkeep?
• how they’re viewed by Uncle Sam?

So, which business structure is right for your travel agency? Let’s dig a little deeper into a few of the questions to help you narrow it down.

Question #1 Personal Liability Protection: What do I have to lose? 

No, seriously. If you’ve got a lot of personal assets (think: nice car, amazing stamp collection, boat, private island, etc.), you’ll probably want to consider a travel agency business structure like an LLC to protect your assets.

If you’ve got a lot of personal assets (think: nice car, amazing stamp collection, boat, private island, etc.), you’ll probably want to consider a travel agency business structure like an LLC

With an LLC, the law sees you (as a person) separate from your company. This means if your travel agency is named in a lawsuit or your agency files bankruptcy, your personal assets are not fair game.

Another thing to consider is that higher-profile travel agencies are more likely to need greater legal protection since they have a bigger target on their back. An LLC structure is a good bet.

Of course, because your personal assets are protected, that means more paperwork, which means you can expect it to cost a bit more.

Question #2: What is my level of risk tolerance?  

The way I look at it, your level of risk tolerance comes down to 4 things:

1. How much you’re worth

2. How much you’ve invested

3. How much your travel agency makes/is expected to make

4. How much risk you’re comfortable with

If you’re starting up your travel agency, don’t have a ton of cash, and plan on booking only friends and family, let's be honest . . . your risk of going bankrupt or being sued are pretty slim. So to start, you might feel comfortable with a Sole Proprietor structure that is easier to implement, costs less, but doesn’t protect your personal assets.

However, if you’ve got a private island and have pet dolphins, you may not want to risk it. In this case, I’ll assume you’d be more than happy to pony up the cash for a business structure that protects Flipper and her pod.

For a more realistic scenario—come back down to Earth, Steph— if you’re opening a storefront, hiring employees, or taking out a business loan, then you’ve got a lot on the line and probably want to go with a business structure that protects your personal assets in case things head south.

Question #3: How much do I want to spend?  

Starting up a travel agency can be stressful for most entrepreneurs. As you’re getting set up, you’re putting money out and nothing is coming back!

Filing as a Sole Proprietor can be done in most states for less than $100. Contrast that with the cost of an LLC ($100-$200 in most states + higher tax preparer costs due to more forms + legal fees of getting setup + higher administrative costs).

Remember, you can always start as a Sole Proprietor and change your travel agency’s business structure at a later date.

Need a Boost to Get Your Travel Agency Going? We Can Help.

If you want some more one on one support, our 7 Day Setup Accelerator is a huge asset. It will help you save time getting going so you can start booking travel and get those commissions coming in, stat!

The course is written and taught by yours truly and Bridget Lee professional educator with deep roots in the travel industry. Maybe you notice a last name similarity? We're sisters and we both came up in a family that is deeply rooted in the industry. Check it out !

OMG, We’re Done … Happy Dance!

No, no, no . . . I did NOT forget about the Happy Dance part. So, I’m going to throwback to one of my old school favorites. N’Sync’s Bye, Bye, Bye.

Ahem, here’s your dance part (compliments of Darren’s Dance Grooves, a VHS (what!?!?!) I really did purchase to learn the Bye, Bye, Bye dance):

And if you need a refresher on the part I’ll be singing, here’s the music video for you:

[Editor's Note: This article was originally published in Aug. 2020. We updated it with all the latest and greatest info and republished it on the post date above! We made a very important correction to clarify that groups of dolphins are regarded as "pods". . . not a clan, posse, or entourage. ]

• Source: IRS site ↩
• Source: Corporate Finance Institute ↩

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Business Structure 101 for Independent Travel Agents and Entrepreneurs

As a new entrepreneur and independent travel agent, you need to register your business. However, before you get started, you have to figure out how you want to structure it. There are many different options so it can be hard to figure out what is best for you and your business.

Different Ways to Structure Your Business

Before you register your business, you need to decide what type of business you are going to have. Your options include:

Sole proprietor

Corporation

Partnership

Limited liability company, otherwise known as an LLC

So, how can you choose? It is going to depend on the type of business you have, as well as your assets and the liability risk that you face.

Reasons to start a sole proprietorship

Here are some reasons why you may want to start a sole proprietorship:

Easy to get started. Starting a sole proprietorship is really easy. You can use your own name and Social Security number to get started. You can use this information to get the permits and licenses that you need to start your business.

You alone are in charge of your business. When you are a sole proprietor, you can decide how you want to run your business. You can choose the jobs that you want to take and pass on the ones that aren't going to be worth it.

And you get the income that comes with it. When you are a sole proprietor, you get all of the income that you make (after paying taxes). You don't have to split your income with anyone else. 

Reasons to start a corporation

Here are some reasons why you may want to start a corporation:

Credibility. As soon as your business becomes a corporation, you gain credibility. People are more likely to work with businesses that are a corporation than those that are not.

Best way to get financing. If you are going to need help financing your business, you may need to start a corporation. You can sell non-voting shares, which allows you to raise money, without giving over control to everyone who helps you. You also can sell stock to help raise money when needed.

Have different types of owners. When you start a corporation, you can have silent partners, who will help with financing (and get a part of the profit), as well as partners who can help you run your business.  

Ability to offer benefits for employees. Corporations are able to offer benefits for their employees, such as health insurance, and deduct it as an expense. LLCs and other businesses aren't able to do so.  

Reasons to start a partnership

Here are some reasons why you may want to start a partnership:

Started privately, between partners. It is easy to set up a partnership because it is formed with an agreement between the partners. You won't have to register your business partnership with the state.

The partnership is not taxed. Instead, partners are taxed individually on their personal tax returns, depending on their actual profits and losses that they occur from the business. You won't be required to create a tax return for the business.

Easy to end the partnership. Just like it is easy to get started, it is easy to dissolve a partnership. As long as one partner is ready to stop, the partnership can change or dissolve, depending on what everyone wants.

Reasons to start an LLC

Here are some reasons why you may want to start a limited liability corporation:

Cheaper than forming a corporation. It is much cheaper to start an LLC than a corporation and it still gives you plenty of the same benefits.

Liability protection. If you have a business that has plenty of risk, you may want to start an LLC in order to protect your personal assets. You won't be held liable for any debts and losses that your company incurs.

You are still in control of your business. You are able to control your business, the way that you want while protecting yourself legally.

More official. Many believe that having an LLC behind your business name can make your business seem more official. People may be more likely to work with you because your business looks more legitimate or serious.

 So, How Do You Decide Which Will Work Best for Your Business?

The best way to decide how to structure your business is to talk to a professional. An accountant will be able to discuss your business ideas so that you can see what your different options are. They will help you figure out what will work best so that you know you are doing it correctly.

Your tax professional will also be able to help you throughout the entire process of registering your business so that it is protected fully.

How to Register Your Business

Once you decide how you want to register your business, it is time to do so. Here are some tips to help you get started.

Register your business name. If you aren't operating under your own name (and using your Social Security number), you are going to need to file a DBA. This stands for doing business as.

Then, you need to register with the IRS. You will receive an Employer Identification Number (EIN), which you will use like a Social Security number for your business. You need it in order to file your taxes for your business.

After that is done, you will need to register your business with the state and local agencies.

Make sure that you have the necessary licenses and permits that you will need. The U.S. Small Business Administration has a website so you can easily find out what permits and licenses that you may need.

Once you have gone through all of the steps above, it is time to get started! You can open your doors and start making money. You are on your way to running a successful business and working for yourself. If you’ve already been working as a solopreneur for a while, it’s never too late to meet with a tax professional and decide how to register your business.

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Travel Agency

Back to All Business Ideas

How to Start a Travel Agency – Learn from Real Entrepreneurs

Written by: Carolyn Young

Carolyn Young is a business writer who focuses on entrepreneurial concepts and the business formation. She has over 25 years of experience in business roles, and has authored several entrepreneurship textbooks.

Edited by: David Lepeska

David has been writing and learning about business, finance and globalization for a quarter-century, starting with a small New York consulting firm in the 1990s.

Published on December 13, 2021 Updated on July 31, 2024

Investment range

$2,150 - $10,600

Revenue potential

$78,000 - $300,000 p.a.

Time to build

0 – 3 months

Profit potential

$62,000 - $90,000 p.a.

Industry trend

Starting your travel agency? Here are the most vital considerations:

• Choose a location —Select a location that is easily accessible for clients and employees. Consider whether you will operate from a home office, a commercial space, or offer remote services.
• Niche — Decide on the types of travel services you will offer, such as leisure travel, corporate travel, group tours, cruises, and destination weddings. Consider whether you will specialize in specific niches, such as adventure travel, luxury travel, or eco-friendly trips.
• Travel agent certification — Consider obtaining travel agent certifications such as those from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) or The Travel Institute to enhance credibility and access to industry resources.
• Booking software — Invest in travel booking software and tools to manage reservations, itineraries, and client information. Look for solutions that integrate with global distribution systems (GDS) for access to flights, hotels, and car rentals.
• Register your business — A limited liability company (LLC) is the best legal structure for new businesses because it is fast and simple. Form your business immediately using ZenBusiness LLC formation service or hire one of the best LLC services on the market.
• Legal business aspects — Register for taxes, open a business bank account, and get an EIN .
• Website and online presence — Create a professional website showcasing your services, destinations, client testimonials, and contact information. Offer online booking options and maintain active social media profiles to engage with potential customers.
• Partnerships — Build relationships with airlines, hotels, tour operators, and other travel service providers to generate referrals and access exclusive deals.

You May Also Wonder:

Is a travel agency profitable?

If you run your online travel agency from home, you could have profit margins of up to 80%. Costs to run your travel agency are very low, and you’re paid around a 10% commission on everything that you book. As a home-based, one-person show, you could make $60,000 per year to start, and much more once you’re established.

Should I rent an office space for my travel agency?

Consumers are turning to online travel agencies more and more, which you could easily run from home. If your business grows fast and you need to add staff, you may want to have an office.

How can my travel agency compete with Expedia?

Some consumers prefer the personal service of a smaller online agency that can offer more local, personal insights about travel destinations. The key is to differentiate yourself in some way. You could specialize in certain locations, a specific type of lodgings, such as cabins, or in a type of vacation such as corporate retreats.

What are the main activities of a travel agency?

Travel agencies engage in activities such as providing travel advice, booking travel arrangements, managing logistics, and offering specialized services tailored to clients’ needs.

Is it hard to run a travel agency?

Running a travel agency can have challenges due to intense competition, evolving industry dynamics, regulatory considerations, seasonal fluctuations, and the need for customer satisfaction and crisis management. 

Step 1: Decide if the Business Is Right for You

Pros and cons.

Every business has its pros and cons, and a travel agency is no exception. You should weigh these carefully to decide if the business is right for you.

• Flexibility – Work from anywhere, even while traveling!
• Minimal Training – Get accredited for free online
• Travel Discounts – Travel agents get top deals and reduced prices
• Demanding Work – With clients around the world you’re on call 24/7
• Fierce competition – Top sites like Expedia, travel networks, advisors, and more

Travel agency industry trends

The US travel agency industry expanded an impressive 75% in the decade leading up to 2020, which saw a massive pandemic-driven downturn. 

In 2021, many travel agents saw a surge in business as travelers unsure of all the constantly changing Covid-19 rules and restrictions turn to them for help, rather than booking their own trips. Global travel advisor InteleTravel experienced a 35% increase in business, not from the disaster year of 2020, but from 2019, which had set records.(( https://www.nytimes.com/2021/04/14/travel/summer-vacation-travel-agents.html ))

Consumers are also turning more and more to online travel agencies, with a study by Expedia showing a 25% increase in the use of online agencies in 2020 alone. Brick-and-mortar agencies seem to be a dying breed, with British travel icon Thomas Cook closing in 2019.(( https://advertising.expedia.com ))

Industry size and growth

• Industry size and past growth – Market research firm IBISWorld values the industry at nearly $48 billion in 2022.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/market-size/travel-agencies-united-states/ ))  
• Growth forecast – The industry is expected to grow further as the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicted a 5% annual growth through 2030 in the employment of travel agents.(( https://www.bls.gov/ooh/sales/travel-agents.htm )) 
• Number of businesses – More than 73,000 travel agencies are operating in the US.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/number-of-businesses/travel-agencies-united-states/ ))
• Number of people employed – The industry employs more than 250,000 people.(( https://www.ibisworld.com/industry-statistics/employment/travel-agencies-united-states/ ))

Trends and challenges

Trends in travel agency industry include:

• Home-stay rentals like Airbnb(( https://stepbystepbusiness.com/business-ideas/start-an-airbnb-business/ )) outperformed hotels in 27 top markets during the pandemic
• Book-now-pay-later options, such as those offered by Expedia and Booking.com, are gaining popularity
• Travel agencies undergoing digital transformation in response to the growing demand for online services

Challenges in travel agency industry include:

• Rising gas prices are impacting travel behavior
• Compliance with global Covid-19 protocols
• Keeping up with digital marketing opportunities

What kind of people work in a travel agency?

• Gender – 76% of travel agency managers in the US are female, while 24% are male. (( https://www.zippia.com/travel-agency-manager-jobs/demographics/#gender-statistics ))
• Average level of education – 64% of travel agency managers hold a bachelor’s degree.(( https://www.zippia.com/travel-agency-manager-jobs/demographics/#degree-level-types ))
• Average age – The average age of a travel agency manager is 51 years old.(( https://www.zippia.com/travel-agency-manager-jobs/demographics/#age-statistics ))

How much does it cost to start a travel agency?

The startup costs for a travel agency range from about $2,000 to $10,000, with an average of around $6,000. The high-end includes the rental of office space and a larger marketing budget, but you could easily run your online travel agency from home to cut costs.

How much can you earn from a travel agency?

The commission paid to a travel agency by travel vendors such as airlines and hotels is generally about 10%. Some travel agents also charge a nominal consultation fee for each booking, typically between $30 and $50. Those will be your two revenue streams.

The average cost of a one-week domestic vacation is $1,500 per person. The profit margin for a home-based travel agency is usually about 80%. With an office and staff, your margin will likely drop to about 30%.

In your first year or two, you could work from home and sell five two-person vacations each week. At a 10% commission, this would mean $78,000 in annual revenue. You’d have about $62,000 in profit, assuming an 80% margin.

As your brand gains recognition, sales could climb to 1,000 two-person vacations a year. At this stage, you would rent an office and hire staff, reducing your profit margin to 30%. With expected annual revenue of $300,000, you would make about $90,000.

What barriers to entry are there?

There are a few barriers to entry for a travel agency. Your biggest challenges will be:

• Competition – Big and small online firms; self-booking travelers
• Client Acquisition – Time and marketing will be required to build a reputation

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Step 2: hone your idea.

Now that you know what’s involved in starting a travel agency, it’s a good idea to hone your concept in preparation to enter a competitive market.

Market research will give you the upper hand, even if you’re already positive that you have a perfect product or service. Conducting market research is important, because it can help you understand your customers better, who your competitors are, and your business landscape.

Why? Identify an opportunity

As a travel agency, you need to find a way to differentiate yourself from the competition. Research online travel agents and booking platforms to see their offerings and prices, while keeping an eye out for something that might be missing.

Perhaps you could specialize in travel to an under-appreciated region, such as Southeast Asia, and build a network of relevant contacts and vendors. Or you could focus on finding travelers the most incredible home-stay rentals at the best prices.

You could specialize in family vacations, corporate retreats, or honeymoons. The potential niche options in the travel industry are nearly endless.

What? Determine your services and travel offerings

Travel can involve many facets, and you can handle some or all of them, in addition to flights, lodgings, and car rentals. These might include:

• Booking tours and excursions
• Dining recommendations/reservation
• Travel insurance
• Visa and emergency services

How much should you charge for travel agency services?

Travel vendors, such as hotels, airlines, and car rental firms, pay a commission to travel agents that’s generally about 10% of the booking. For instance, if you book a $1,200 flight on Turkish Airlines for your client, Turkish Airlines will give you, the travel agent, a $120 commission.

As a result, booking flights with a travel agent sometimes costs the traveler slightly more than booking directly with the airlines or through a travel site like Expedia or Orbitz. Thus, to attract customers and boost sales travel agents rely on discounted travel packages.

For instance, a return flight from Chicago to Cancun and a 6-day stay at a four-star all-inclusive resort, plus ground transport, might cost a traveler $1,000 or more to book directly. But travel agents get significant discounts from vendors because they place volume orders, so you’d be able to offer this trip as a $599 package deal.

Even after paying your commission, the traveler still saves a chunk of money by using your services, rather than booking themselves. And keep in mind, the discounts offered by vendors are likely to increase as you become a more established agent. You may be able to negotiate commissions from tour operators and excursion companies as well.

Once you know your costs, you can use this Step By Step profit margin calculator to determine your mark-up and final price points. Remember, the prices you use at launch should be subject to change if warranted by the market.

Who? Identify your target market

Your target market will depend on the concept you’ve chosen for your agency. If you’ve decided to specialize in family vacations, you’ll be targeting parents. You might find them on sites like Facebook or LinkedIn, rather than Instagram or TikTok.

Where? Choose your business premises

In the early stages, you may want to run your business from home to keep costs low. But as your travel agency grows, you’ll likely need to hire workers and may need to rent out an office. You can find commercial space to rent in your area on Craigslist , Crexi , and Commercial Cafe .

When choosing a commercial space, you may want to follow these rules of thumb:

• Central location accessible via public transport
• Ventilated and spacious, with good natural light
• Flexible lease that can be extended as your business grows
• Ready-to-use space with no major renovations or repairs needed

Step 3: Brainstorm a Travel Agency Name

Here are some ideas for brainstorming your business name:

• Short, unique, and catchy names tend to stand out
• Names that are easy to say and spell tend to do better
• The name should be relevant to your product or service offerings
• Ask around — family, friends, colleagues, social media — for suggestions
• Including keywords, such as “travel” or “bookings”, boosts SEO
• Choose a name that allows for expansion: “Wanderlust Adventures” over “Beach Bum Vacations” or “Honeymoon Haven Agency”
• A location-based name can help establish a strong connection with your local community and help with the SEO but might hinder future expansion

Once you’ve got a list of potential names, visit the website of the US Patent and Trademark Office to make sure they are available for registration and check the availability of related domain names using our Domain Name Search tool. Using “.com” or “.org” sharply increases credibility, so it’s best to focus on these. 

Find a Domain

Powered by GoDaddy.com

Finally, make your choice among the names that pass this screening and go ahead with domain registration and social media account creation. Your business name is one of the key differentiators that set your business apart. Once you pick your company name, and start with the branding, it is hard to change the business name. Therefore, it’s important to carefully consider your choice before you start a business entity.

Step 4: Create a Travel Agency Business Plan

Here are the key components of a business plan:

• Executive Summary: Present an overview of your travel agency, highlighting its focus on providing personalized travel planning and booking services for various types of travelers.
• Business Overview: Describe the services of your travel agency, including custom travel itinerary planning, booking accommodations, flights, and special experiences.
• Product and Services: Detail the range of travel packages offered, such as luxury vacations, adventure tours, and corporate travel services.
• Market Analysis: Assess the current travel market, identifying target customer segments like families, honeymooners, or business travelers.
• Competitive Analysis: Compare your agency to others, focusing on your unique offerings like specialized destinations, personalized service, or exclusive deals.
• Sales and Marketing: Outline your strategy for attracting clients, using methods like online marketing, partnerships with travel providers, or attending travel expos.
• Management Team: Highlight the experience and expertise of your team in travel planning, customer service, and business management.
• Operations Plan: Describe the process of service delivery, from client consultation to trip execution and post-travel follow-up.
• Financial Plan: Provide an overview of financial aspects, including startup costs, pricing strategy, and anticipated income.
• Appendix: Include supplementary documents such as travel industry certifications, partnership agreements, or detailed client testimonials to support your business plan.

If you’ve never created a business plan, it can be an intimidating task. You might consider hiring a business plan specialist to create a top-notch business plan for you.

Step 5: Register Your Business

Registering your business is an absolutely crucial step — it’s the prerequisite to paying taxes, raising capital, opening a bank account, and other guideposts on the road to getting a business up and running.

Plus, registration is exciting because it makes the entire process official. Once it’s complete, you’ll have your own business!

Choose where to register your company

Your business location is important because it can affect taxes, legal requirements, and revenue. Most people will register their business in the state where they live, but if you are planning to expand, you might consider looking elsewhere, as some states could offer real advantages when it comes to travel agencies.

If you’re willing to move, you could really maximize your business! Keep in mind, it’s relatively easy to transfer your business to another state.

Choose your business structure

Business entities come in several varieties, each with its pros and cons. The legal structure you choose for your travel agency will shape your taxes, personal liability, and business registration requirements, so choose wisely.

Here are the main options:

• Sole Proprietorship – The most common structure for small businesses makes no legal distinction between company and owner. All income goes to the owner, who’s also liable for any debts, losses, or liabilities incurred by the business. The owner pays taxes on business income on his or her personal tax return.
• General Partnership – Similar to a sole proprietorship, but for two or more people. Again, owners keep the profits and are liable for losses. The partners pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.
• Limited Liability Company (LLC) – Combines the characteristics of corporations with those of sole proprietorships or partnerships. Again, the owners are not personally liable for debts.
• C Corp – Under this structure, the business is a distinct legal entity and the owner or owners are not personally liable for its debts. Owners take profits through shareholder dividends, rather than directly. The corporation pays taxes, and owners pay taxes on their dividends, which is sometimes referred to as double taxation.
• S Corp – An S-Corporation refers to the tax classification of the business but is not a business entity. An S-Corp can be either a corporation or an LLC , which just needs to elect to be an S-Corp for tax status. In an S-Corp, income is passed through directly to shareholders, who pay taxes on their share of business income on their personal tax returns.

We recommend that new business owners choose LLC as it offers liability protection and pass-through taxation while being simpler to form than a corporation. You can form an LLC in as little as five minutes using an online LLC formation service. They will check that your business name is available before filing, submit your articles of organization , and answer any questions you might have.

Form Your LLC

Choose Your State

We recommend ZenBusiness as the Best LLC Service for 2024

Step 6: Register for Taxes

The final step before you’re able to pay taxes is getting an Employer Identification Number , or EIN. You can file for your EIN online or by mail or fax: visit the IRS website to learn more. Keep in mind, if you’ve chosen to be a sole proprietorship you can simply use your social security number as your EIN.

Once you have your EIN, you’ll need to choose your tax year. Financially speaking, your business will operate in a calendar year (January–December) or a fiscal year, a 12-month period that can start in any month. This will determine your tax cycle, while your business structure will determine which taxes you’ll pay.

The IRS website also offers a tax-payers checklist , and taxes can be filed online.

It is important to consult an accountant or other professional to help you with your taxes to ensure you are completing them correctly.

Step 7: Fund your Business

Securing financing is your next step and there are plenty of ways to raise capital:

• Bank loans : This is the most common method, but getting approved requires a rock-solid business plan and strong credit history.
• SBA-guaranteed loans : The Small Business Administration can act as guarantor, helping gain that elusive bank approval via an SBA-guaranteed loan .
• Government grants : A handful of financial assistance programs help fund entrepreneurs. Visit Grants.gov to learn which might work for you.
• Venture capital : Offer potential investors an ownership stake in exchange for funds, keeping in mind that you would be sacrificing some control over your business.
• Friends and Family : Reach out to friends and family to provide a business loan or investment in your concept. It’s a good idea to have legal advice when doing so because SEC regulations apply.
• Crowdfunding : Websites like Kickstarter and Indiegogo offer an increasingly popular low-risk option, in which donors fund your vision. Entrepreneurial crowdfunding sites like Fundable and WeFunder enable multiple investors to fund your business.
• Personal : Self-fund your business via your savings or the sale of property or other assets.

Bank and SBA loans are probably the best options, other than friends and family, for funding a travel agency. You might also try crowdfunding if you have an innovative concept.

Step 8: Apply for Travel Agency Licenses and Permits

Starting a travel agency requires obtaining a number of licenses and permits from local, state, and federal governments.

Federal regulations, licenses, and permits associated with starting your business include doing business as (DBA), health licenses and permits from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration ( OSHA ), trademarks, copyrights, patents, and other intellectual properties, as well as industry-specific licenses and permits. 

You may also need state-level and local county or city-based licenses and permits. The license requirements and how to obtain them vary, so check the websites of your state, city, and county governments or contact the appropriate person to learn more. 

You could also check this SBA guide for your state’s requirements, but we recommend using MyCorporation’s Business License Compliance Package . They will research the exact forms you need for your business and state and provide them to ensure you’re fully compliant.

This is not a step to be taken lightly, as failing to comply with legal requirements can result in hefty penalties.

If you feel overwhelmed by this step or don’t know how to begin, it might be a good idea to hire a professional to help you check all the legal boxes.

Step 9: Open a Business Bank Account

Before you start making money you’ll need a place to keep it, and that requires opening a bank account .

Keeping your business finances separate from your personal account makes it easy to file taxes and track your company’s income, so it’s worth doing even if you’re running your travel agency business as a sole proprietorship. Opening a business bank account is quite simple, and similar to opening a personal one. Most major banks offer accounts tailored for businesses — just inquire at your preferred bank to learn about their rates and features.

Banks vary in terms of offerings, so it’s a good idea to examine your options and select the best plan for you. Once you choose your bank, bring in your EIN (or Social Security Number if you decide on a sole proprietorship), articles of incorporation, and other legal documents and open your new account.

Step 10: Get Business Insurance

Business insurance is an area that often gets overlooked yet it can be vital to your success as an entrepreneur. Insurance protects you from unexpected events that can have a devastating impact on your business.

Here are some types of insurance to consider:

• General liability: The most comprehensive type of insurance, acting as a catch-all for many business elements that require coverage. If you get just one kind of insurance, this is it. It even protects against bodily injury and property damage.
• Business Property: Provides coverage for your equipment and supplies.
• Equipment Breakdown Insurance: Covers the cost of replacing or repairing equipment that has broken due to mechanical issues.
• Worker’s compensation: Provides compensation to employees injured on the job.
• Property: Covers your physical space, whether it is a cart, storefront, or office.
• Commercial auto: Protection for your company-owned vehicle.
• Professional liability: Protects against claims from a client who says they suffered a loss due to an error or omission in your work.
• Business owner’s policy (BOP): This is an insurance plan that acts as an all-in-one insurance policy, a combination of any of the above insurance types.

Step 11: Prepare to Launch

As opening day nears, prepare for launch by reviewing and improving some key elements of your business.

Essential software and tools

Being an entrepreneur often means wearing many hats, from marketing to sales to accounting, which can be overwhelming. Fortunately, many websites and digital tools are available to help simplify many business tasks.

You may want to use industry-specific software to manage bookings and scheduling, such as TravelPerk , TravelCEO , and TravelOperations .

• Popular web-based accounting programs for smaller businesses include Quickbooks , Freshbooks , and Xero .
• If you’re unfamiliar with basic accounting, you may want to hire a professional, especially as you begin. The consequences for filing incorrect tax documents can be harsh, so accuracy is crucial.

Develop your website

Website development is crucial because your site is your online presence and needs to convince prospective clients of your expertise and professionalism.

You can create your own website using services like WordPress, Wix, or Squarespace . This route is very affordable, but figuring out how to build a website can be time-consuming. If you lack tech-savvy, you can hire a web designer or developer to create a custom website for your business.

Your website should showcase your offerings, customer testimonials, and detailed information about destinations.

Your clients are unlikely to find your website, however, unless you follow Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) practices. These are steps that help pages rank higher in the results of top search engines like Google.

Here are some powerful marketing strategies for your future business:

• Leverage Social Media : Use platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Pinterest to share stunning travel imagery, customer stories, and travel tips. Engage with your audience through regular posts, stories, and responses to comments.
• Content Marketing : Start a blog or a YouTube channel providing valuable content like travel guides, tips, destination reviews, and travel trends. This not only helps in SEO but also establishes you as an expert in the field.
• Build Partnerships : Collaborate with local businesses in your chosen travel destinations, such as hotels, tour operators, and local attractions. This can lead to exclusive deals or packages that you can offer to your clients.
• Email Marketing : Collect emails through your website and social media channels and send out regular newsletters with travel tips, special offers, and new package announcements.
• Customer Reviews and Referrals : Encourage your clients to leave reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor or Google. Word-of-mouth referrals are powerful, so consider offering incentives for referrals.
• Attend Travel Expos and Events : Participate in travel expos, seminars, and networking events to build contacts and stay updated on the latest industry trends.
• Offer Personalized Services : Tailor your services to meet individual client needs. Personal touches can make a big difference in the travel industry.
• Utilize Paid Advertising : Invest in targeted ads on social media and Google to reach potential clients. This can be particularly effective when you have special offers or new packages to promote.
• Stay Informed and Flexible : The travel industry is dynamic, so it’s important to stay informed about global travel trends, destination updates, and customer preferences.
• Sustainable and Responsible Travel : With growing awareness about environmental and cultural impacts, promoting sustainable and responsible travel practices can set your agency apart.

Focus on USPs

Unique selling propositions, or USPs, are the characteristics of a product or service that set it apart from the competition. Customers today are inundated with buying options, so you’ll have a real advantage if they are able to quickly grasp how your travel agency meets their needs or wishes. It’s wise to do all you can to ensure your USPs stand out on your website and in your marketing and promotional materials, stimulating buyer desire.

Global pizza chain Domino’s is renowned for its USP: “Hot pizza in 30 minutes or less, guaranteed.” Signature USPs for your travel agency could be:

• Travel to Asia’s best secret destinations
• The best local insights and insider adventures
• Vacations for the whole family, from grandma to the baby!

You may not like to network or use personal connections for business gain. But your personal and professional networks likely offer considerable untapped business potential. Maybe that Facebook friend you met in college is now running a travel agency, or a LinkedIn contact of yours is connected to dozens of potential clients. Maybe your cousin or neighbor has been working in travel agencies for years and can offer invaluable insight and industry connections. 

The possibilities are endless, so it’s a good idea to review your personal and professional networks and reach out to those with possible links to or interest in travel. You’ll probably generate new customers or find companies with which you could establish a partnership. Online businesses might also consider affiliate marketing as a way to build relationships with potential partners and boost business.

Step 12: Build Your Team

If you’re starting out small from a home office, you may not need any employees. But as your business grows, you will likely need workers to fill various roles. Potential positions for a travel agency would include:

• Travel Agents – sales and bookings
• General Manager – scheduling, accounting, staff management
• Marketing Lead – SEO strategies, social media, other marketing

At some point, you may need to hire all of these positions or simply a few, depending on the size and needs of your business. You might also hire multiple workers for a single role or a single worker for multiple roles, again depending on need.

Free-of-charge methods to recruit employees include posting ads on popular platforms such as LinkedIn, Facebook, or Jobs.com. You might also consider a premium recruitment option, such as advertising on Indeed , Glassdoor , or ZipRecruiter . Further, if you have the resources, you could consider hiring a recruitment agency to help you find talent.

Step 13: Run a Travel Agency – Start Making Money!

Owning a travel agency means sharing the joy of travel for a living. What could be more fun? It’s also a huge, high-growth industry that you could tap into and grow a profitable business. Startup costs are low, and all you need is a simple accreditation — there’s no real training required. You just need a good concept for your agency and a great marketing plan. Having a strong online presence in this digital age is also an absolute must.

You’ve started off on the right foot by reading this guide, and now you’re ready to begin your trip to entrepreneurial success!

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• Decide if the Business Is Right for You
• Hone Your Idea
• Brainstorm a Travel Agency Name
• Create a Travel Agency Business Plan
• Register Your Business
• Register for Taxes
• Fund your Business
• Apply for Travel Agency Licenses and Permits
• Open a Business Bank Account
• Get Business Insurance
• Prepare to Launch
• Build Your Team
• Run a Travel Agency - Start Making Money!

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Business Travel Agency

Put the power of one of the world’s leading corporate travel agencies to work for you.

Making the most of corporate travel agency services

CWT understands that the relationship between organizations and their traveling employees is changing. Your employees need business travel agents who can help them stay productive, get the best prices, and make travel easier for them. Your organization needs a corporate travel agency that helps you manage your travel program effectively, including:

• Getting started
• Engaging travelers
• Staying overnight
• Managing risk
• Delivering travel ROI
• Driving action
• Managing meetings

CWT, one of the world’s leading business travel agencies, provides world-class corporate travel management fueled by decades of experience, our amazing corporate travel agents and backed by award-winning technology. Our organization focuses on the business of business travel—so you and your employees can focus on your company’s business.

We make business travel easier for your employees

• Easy bookings on one, integrated platform that offers corporate travel agency services via mobile, online or phone.
• Single platform for business-relevant flights, trains, car rentals and hotels no matter which booking channel they choose.
• Consistent service in ~150 countries around the world by corporate travel agents
• Price tracking technology, helps travelers take advantage of price drops even after they’ve booked their airline ticket or hotel room.
• Proven best hotel rates —with a Best Rate Guarantee on our specially negotiated deals
• Highest rated mobile travel app of any travel management company or third-party—on both iOS and Android platforms.  

We help you manage corporate travel better

• Online, 24/7 access to an award-winning travel management command center .
• Shareable reports and graphics to help you win over key stakeholders and showcase your value.
• Automated messaging to help you improve communications to traveling employees, helping you improve policy compliance and give your employees helpful information.
• Traveler tracking available 24/7 through interactive maps and enhanced risk management services.
• An array of tools, services and processes that support travel policy compliance.
• New insights and savings opportunities recommended based on your company’s specific travel data.

Reach out to CWT today to discuss a travel program

Learn more about our travel management offering.

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Using a Travel Agent: How Does it Work, and is it Worth it?

Dreaming of your next vacation, but don’t know where to start? A professional travel agent can help you.

For years, travel agents have been the go-to option for trip planning for millions of people around the world. However, these days they’re not the only solution. As technology continues to develop, there are now many more ways to put together your ideal trip – and get the most out of your time there. 

But if you’ve ever wondered how a travel agent works, you’re in the right place. In this article, we’ll explain everything you need to know – and take a look at some of the hottest alternatives for travel planning. 

You’ll also discover how Whop’s fantastic travel communities offer you flexibility and control over planning your next trip.

Ready to dive in?

Booking Travel Online in 2024

The travel industry took a big hit in 2020/21 during the pandemic as the world went into lockdown. However, it has recovered remarkably in just a couple of years.

In 2023, the global online travel industry brought in $667.55bn of revenue, and is expected to reach a whopping $1.569tn by the end of the decade. Another eye-opening stat revealed in a recent TravelPerk survey is that flight demand has recovered to about 95% of the level it was prior to the pandemic. 

With the world once again open for tourism, there is an increased demand for inspirational travel content and trip-planning services.

What Does a Travel Agent Do?

Travel agents help people put together trips. They provide advice and find accommodation, flights and other services, like vehicle hire and tickets to attractions. 

In the “old days” (i.e. before the internet), trip planning usually involved calling up or visiting a brick-and-mortar travel agency or independent travel consultant.

The agent would search their databases to find the right vacation package based on the user’s needs and budget. Travelers could also collect physical brochures and pick the trip they wanted, booking it through the operator or via a travel agent.

Travel agents collect a commission of around 5% to 20% from partner agencies, hotels, and other providers when a traveler books their service. They might also charge clients a fee for their services.

While physical travel agencies and independent consultants still operate, the internet has brought a whole host of other options to find and book travel. As well as giving travel professionals access to more planning and booking tools, travelers can now take on the role of travel agent themselves.

So, do people still use travel agents?

In a word, yes. The same TravelPerk survey found that since the pandemic, 29% of respondents still book their trips through travel agents or operators. 

The travel agent sector has also evolved to meet the shifting trends. Physical agents, like Avant Travel, complement their in-person offering with an option for users to explore and book trips online:

In addition, online travel agents (OTAs) offer a similar service to brick-and-mortar businesses.

Some of the more familiar OTAs include Expedia Group, Booking.com and Tripadvisor. These sites offer full trip planning services and, often, customer reviews of hotels, etc.

Users plug in their requirements and the OTA brings up a list of options. Travelers can book flights and accommodation separately or as a package. 

They can also add on things like car hire, transfers and tickets for local attractions to put together their ideal trip.

The TravelPerk survey showed that 41% of participants preferred booking via an OTA over other methods. Among U.S. travelers aged under 35, the most common use of OTAs was to book hotel rooms.

Even sites that traditionally focused on a specific element of travel, such as Skyscanner, now offer related travel services to help users book an entire trip.

Travel agents vs tour operators

Are travel agents and operators the same? There is some overlap here in the fact they both help clients find and book trips.

The main difference is that operators sell their own trips and tours, while agents act as intermediaries, selling other providers’ services.

However, operators might act like travel agents in some cases. For example, if you book an escorted tour through an operator, they might also help with booking flights and offer suggestions for adding extra nights’ accommodation.

Specialty travel agents

As well as general travel agents and OTAs, there are those which focus on specific types of trips and travelers. 

These agents offer clients a bespoke service within their area of specialty and often attract a higher commission and fees. A few travel agent specialties include:

Business travel

Business-focused agents like TravelPerk and Egencia work with employers and firms to provide corporate travel solutions. Travel agents in this space charge companies a fee for their services.

Often, corporate travel agents offer a wider travel management service beyond just accommodation and transport. This might include things like:

• expense management
• geo-tracking (in high-risk locations)  
• loyalty / rewards programs

As well as individual employees, corporate travel management firms and agents organize group travel for teams. 

Eco-tourism

Specialist agents have sprung up in the growing areas of sustainable travel and eco-tourism.

Overall, according to Statista, the “eco-tourism” sector is expected to grow from $172.4bn in 2022 to $374.2bn in 2028, reflecting people’s awareness of the environmental impact of travel.

Agents in this space help environmentally conscious travelers find trips that result in a lower carbon footprint or which reduce other environmental harm.

The focus is often on locations with green credentials and trips which include a social component. This might include volunteering or giving back to local communities.

While many general travel agents and operators book road trip packages, there are those which specialize in this type of travel.

From advising on the best itineraries to booking accommodation on the route, travel agents can assist with getting the most from your journey. They may also offer organized tours.

Agents in this space arrange for things like one-way car or RV rental, as well as different types of transport, such as motorbikes.

Backpacking / round-the-world

Another growing area is longer stays, such as backpacking, gap years, or the ultimate in global travel: round-the-world (RTW) trips.

Specialist agents can provide a valuable service here when it comes to route planning. RTW trips in particular can be challenging to plan due to the different flights and overland travel between stops.

There is so much to think about when planning an RTW adventure, an expert agent can take away some of the stress and also make sure you see as much as possible.

Agents and operators in this space may also offer access to escorted tours, with travel, accommodation and the services of a tour leader.

Likewise, agents can arrange things like volunteering, work opportunities and homestay accommodation. They also offer support while you’re away.

At the high-end of the market, dedicated travel agents offer expert advice on all aspects of luxury getaways. 

This is where using an agent can be worthwhile, as they tailor bespoke luxury experiences for selective clients on a higher budget.

If you want to plan that dream trip, luxury travel agents can find the most exclusive accommodation and experiences.

For example, Luxury Wanderlust Travel here on Whop offers all the tools you need for planning a luxurious trip. 

Luxury travel agents usually charge fees for their services but they work with clients who demand a high level of service and are willing to pay. 

Pros & Cons of Using a Travel Agent

There are advantages and disadvantages to booking your trip through an in-person travel agent, consultant or OTA. These include: 

Alternative Trip Planning Tools & Services

There are plenty of alternative trip planning options out there if you don’t want to use a travel agent.

Which is best for your needs will depend on things like your budget, type of trip, and the amount of time you have to spend on planning. 

It also depends on your own knowledge of the location. If you know a place well, putting a trip together will be easier.

Here are three alternative options for planning a trip:

1. The DIY option 

With this option, you do all the trip research, planning and booking yourself. 

If you know your destination, dates, and budget, you can head online and look for accommodation, travel and other services. 

OTAs are useful here, as you can compare flights, accommodation and other elements of the trip, then shop around to put together the right package for your needs. This offers the ultimate flexibility and it can be exciting to research the trip and book it yourself.

However, it’s also time consuming. The TravelPerk survey showed that, on average, people spend five hours researching online travel content before booking.

If you aren’t sure about elements of your trip or the location, you might also find it difficult to find what you want.

The DIY route may be okay for long weekends and other simple trips. However, it might be more challenging for, say, six months backpacking in Vietnam if you’re not a seasoned traveler. 

It’s also easier to overlook things like travel insurance, visa rules, and vaccinations. Plus, there are scammers out there, so be careful when booking and paying upfront for things like privately hosted accommodation and tours. 

2. Planning apps 

The next option is to use a dedicated trip planning tool. You can increasingly find AI-driven apps and chatbots which offer advice on aspects of travel, from routes to things to do on vacation.

Examples include:

• Vacay Chatbot
• Roadtrippers

Like other sectors, the use of AI is spreading in the travel industry. So, even if you use a travel agent, you might find yourself “talking” to the firm’s chatbot.

One of the advantages of these tools is that you have 24/7 access. The downsides include the lack of personalization and potential privacy concerns.

3. Find a dedicated community

A third choice is to tap into other people’s experiences and knowledge by connecting with a travel community, like WorldWide , which you can find right here on Whop.

The great thing about this option is that you get to connect with other people who know a particular destination. 

These platforms might share hacks to save you money while you’re traveling or highlight cool places to visit that are off the usual tourist routes.

While travel agents still offer a valuable service, particularly for specialist travel, they are not the only (or cheapest) way to book all types of trips.

The internet has opened up trip planning, so travelers can now benefit from access to a wide range of resources for getting the most from vacations and longer adventures. 

These resources include Whop’s travel communities !

Plan Your Travels With Whop

If you want help planning any kind of trip, Whop is here to help. 

Our travel creators provide fantastic content and services to help save you money and to get more from your next adventure – whether a luxury weekend away or a year backpacking around the world.

Explore chat rooms, guides, dedicated communities, and all kinds of other ways to take control of your travels.

Find everything from tips on scoring discounted flights and tickets to opportunities to connect with fellow globetrotters.

And if you dream of turning your love of travel into a business – Whop is also your one-stop-shop for building and growing your audience. 

Explore the Whop marketplace and find your inspiration.

Rob Truslove

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How to Become a Travel Agent—Because, Believe It or Not, the Industry Is on the Rise

There’s a reason “how to become a travel agent” has been a continuously trending search phrase on Google—it is a career path that offers a flexible work environment and schedule, ample travel opportunities, and an immersion into a supportive world-wide industry. It's a surprise to some in 2023: Once the internet became widely available, it was largely believed that needing a travel agent was obsolete. However, even though the brick-and-mortar agencies with punny names in strip malls have vanished, the career is on-the-rise .

New software options are making it easier than ever for people to make money planning trips, either as a side hustle or as a full-time business. That’s why Cherikonda, India-based stay-at-home mother, Maya Kapoor-Miller, decided to enter the professional world as a travel agent this year, at 31. “I knew nothing about the travel industry prior to signing up,” says Kapoor-Miller, who decided to use San Francisco-based booking platform Dreamport to establish her online travel advisor business. “It is my first business in life, and the only one that you can start with no investment.”

But there's also a rise in demand. When people ventured back into the world after the pandemic, travel agents saw an overwhelming amount of business . And that momentum hasn’t stopped—when travel is complicated, like it was in 2020 and 2021, travelers turned to professional trip planners to create a seamless vacation. For better or worse, traveling has remained complicated and chaotic, with new rules being implemented (like Americans needing to pay a fee to visit Europe in 2024 ) and airline strikes and staffing issues. Offloading all of the nitty-gritty details to someone else is more appealing than ever.

For those entering the field, there's also the age-old motivator: a love of travel. 

Shelton Ellis, who is based in North Carolina, recently saw these opportunities and left behind more than 20 years in public relations and global advertising to turn his passion into a career. “I was born with a wanderlust that would wear Rick Steves out,” Ellis says. “I decided to take the leap and follow that lifelong yearning. Transitioning into this role was really about learning how to monetize what I'm passionate about.”

Whether you are looking for a new career path or a lucrative side-hustle—or simply curious about those taking the plunge—here’s how to become a travel agent, from the qualifications and education required, to anticipated earnings, according to those who have made the shift in the past year. 

What exactly does a travel agent do?

Travel agents, or travel advisors (the term is mostly interchangeable), manage everything that goes into a trip for their clients: the flights, car transfers, accommodations, restaurant reservations, and more—they even inspire the itinerary. The reason people turn to travel agents, aside from having a helping hand during any travel chaos , is also to tap into the travel agent’s first-hand knowledge of destinations, and their industry partnerships, which often lead to perks such as hotel upgrades, ideal airplane seats, and experiences that can’t be found on a search engine.

“You have to remember that as a travel agent, you will be a guide for people during their happiest moments—family reunions, weddings , baptisms, and once-in-a-lifetime experiences that people have dreamt of,” says Kapoor-Miller. “It has been one of the most rewarding aspects of being a travel agent. You navigate people, inform them, and help them choose.”

So, how do you become a travel agent?

There are many ways to become a travel agent, from joining an existing travel agency , to starting an independent business from the ground up. Others are opting for one of the buzziest start-ups in the travel industry, Fora . When it launched in 2021, the software company, which trains and provides search engine-optimized profile pages to advisors—at one point had a waitlist of over 30,000 people eager to begin a part-time gig. Travel photographer and Condé Nast Traveler contributor Amanda Villarosa is currently in the process of joining.

“I'm the person that friends and family come to for travel recommendations, tips and tricks, and general travel advice,” says Villarosa. “After discovering Fora and looking into it, I realized that it could be the perfect side-hustle, considering I'm already so involved in the industry.”

With additional flexibility, Villarosa was able to move from New York City to splitting her time between Denver and Los Angeles . She says that the sign-up was quite straightforward. “You're given a dedicated Fora email and have access to advising tools and fellow Fora advisors,” she says. “The training is in the form of Zoom meetings and videos, which you have the option to watch at your own pace. Once completed, you take a certification quiz and you're on your way to advising.”

The other ways in are slightly more involved. To begin an independent practice, you go about it like many other businesses. You will have to create an LLC, establish a business name, cultivate marketing materials, build a website, find clientele, and more.

Ellis found something in the middle, choosing to connect with an established travel agency. “Don't be afraid to reach out to an agency looking to take on new advisors and is willing to mentor," says Ellis. "I was fortunate to learn so much from Annie Chambers, the owner of Crafted Escapes , who has seven years in the business.” He now knows the ropes on everything from using itinerary-building software to destination-specific training, to the sales and marketing aspects of the trade.

Is there required education or qualifications?

Ellis says that there's no certification, per se, required to become a travel advisor, but there are countless training courses available like Departure Lounge ’s classes on navigating the industry through hotels and tour operators. He said it’s also important to stay on top of travel trends. Ellis recently completed travel agent training programs provided by premier cruise lines such as Virgin Voyages , Ritz-Carlton Yachts , and Cunard to help agents sell their products more accurately.

How much does a travel agent make?

What a travel agent earns depends on how many trips they successfully book for their clients. The entire model is commission-based, meaning agents earn a percentage of the total cost of the vacation they orchestrate. Many travel advisors choose to charge a flat-rate planning fee in addition to their commission, but balance is key—if you charge a high planning fee, it could lead to potential clients going elsewhere.

Fora ’s website states that “some of our full-time, expert advisors earn well into the six figures (or beyond).” So a lucrative career may be on the horizon, for those who are able to build a robust client base and excellent industry connections.

How much you make can also depend on where you live around the world. “I am being paid in dollars,” says India-based Kapoor-Miller. “So the currency fluctuations of the local exchange rate are not something I am worried about.”

What are the key skills required to become a travel agent?

“Travel agents need a mix of customer service, communication, destination knowledge, organizational, and problem-solving skills,” says Kapoor-Miller. “But I would say that adaptability, flexibility, curiosity, and cultural sensitivity top them all—you have to put yourself in other's shoes, and understand the requirements, hopes, and expectations of your clients along with any worries and questions they may have.”

It’s vital to have a passion for traveling, even the aspects of the process that aren’t as exciting, such as learning about new airline routes, train schedule updates, and industry news. “It can be an information-heavy hustle, and I believe it's important to be excited about it as that energy definitely transfers to your clients and partners,” Villarosa says.

Should travel advisors choose a specialization?

Many travel advisors have found success through becoming an expert in a few types of travel and destinations. “It's important to become an authority and learn as much as you can through personal experiences and continuing education,” says Ellis. “As a proud member of the LGBTQIA+ community , an avid snow skier, and scuba diver, I know not only the popular destinations but others that are off the beaten path, equally safe and adventurous for all travelers.” This helps travel agents establish a competitive edge, and hopefully convince potential clients to choose them for their expertise.

What are the benefits of being a travel agent?

“Flexibility tops them all,” says Kapoor-Miller. “And the ability to start without industry knowledge. If you worry that you are too old for this job, the good news is that this is a job you can enter and enjoy at any age.”

Another great perk is the "Familiarization trip,” says Ellis. “Tourism boards and hotels invite agents to visit and familiarize themselves with a particular country and its properties. After all, any accomplished salesperson should learn everything they can about their products first-hand...even if they're in Bora Bora.” It's hard work, but someone's got to do it. 

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Unforgettable experiences, wonderful memories, and once-in-lifetime adventures — that’s what travelers seek, and it’s what travel brands and destinations deliver. As a renowned travel PR and marketing agency, FINN Partners makes meaningful connections between your hospitality brand and the media you want to be taking notice. We do that by leveraging a worldwide network of media relationships and industry contacts, and by telling creative stories about your brand that hit the mark, make a difference, generate compelling column inches, and directly impacting your bottom line.

The beauty of our diverse team is that we work with boutique hotels, tour operators, luxury hotel brands, in-demand destinations, cruise lines, airlines, travel products and more, which help ensure that our programs are customized to your unique needs. We believe deeply in productive purpose, and we partner with like-minded travel businesses motivated to meet sustainable goals. FINN is powered by people driven by their passion for travel, at the top of their game, who feel that travel and tourism should be a force for good in the 21st Century.

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Our award-winning work in luxury travel ranges from independent boutique hotels to private islands, from safari operators to highly ranked cruise companies, private aviation to world-class wellness spas. We have a talented team of publicists who customize high-performing plans and manage A-list media campaigns to drive awareness and business to our clients. We also work with travel adjacent brands such as tech products, luggage, real estate, entertainment, etc.

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We have the distinction to work with some of the world’s most desirable destinations around the globe. FINN is hired by countries, states and cities to showcase their exceptional offerings to drive tourism and lead economic impact campaigns. The media know that FINN work tirelessly with tourism ministers and DMCs to effectively increase visibility.

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Our team is deeply verse and rooted in the hospitality industry therefore uniquely able to work alongside and for some of the world’s best and most visible hotel and wellness brands. We speak the language of a hotelier and strive to not just promote a property or brand but to amplify its reputation and enhance its business. Our senior team regularly attend industry events and conference, keeping in front of industry trends and ultimately informing client campaigns.

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Our B2B capabilities include economic development, MICE market promotion, cruise market and product development.

Travelers have countless options — so travel and tourism companies need a compelling message, clear market position, and engaging personality to stand out. We use detailed research and vast experience to help your company build its brand.

Driving traffic to your site takes relevant content that’s high quality. It has to be interesting, insightful, and trustworthy — and that’s what we deliver.

Your voice and tone have to be consistent, compelling, and always aligned to your brand values. We build communication strategies that strike that tone — and, if needed, we craft honest responses to protect your brand and give you peace of mind.

No matter the issue, political turmoil, industry challenges, or even complex social dynamics, we can help craft communications to successfully navigate you through.

We’ll rely on extensive research, best practices, and burgeoning trends to create a digital marketing plan customized to your travel and tourism marketing efforts. Our integrated approach will cover all your needs, from video content to social media.

Influencer marketing can be especially effective for travel companies and destinations, but it takes finding the influencer whose personality and style are the perfect fit. We have close relationships with numerous influencers who can help you hit your goals.

Travel and tourism companies, as well as destinations, can benefit greatly by having a strong, genuine, lasting relationship with the media. We’ll help you build that relationship, nurturing new networks and growing your brand with key audiences.

Navigating the ever-changing landscape of travel and tourism takes rock-solid research and insights. We have the expertise and resources to conduct market research and deliver insights on a global scale.

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Federal government to establish aviation industry ombudsman to handle disputes

A new agency will be set up to monitor airlines and help customers receive cash refunds for delayed or cancelled flights.

Bombshell twist after superyacht sinks

Bizarre new detail in airline changes

Qantas sells 300 first class fares by mistake

A ombudsman will be set up to police Australian airlines and airports under a new scheme to protect passenger rights.

Transport Minister Catherine King is expected to announce the establishment of an aviation industry ombudsman on Monday as she releases the Albanese government’s long-awaited aviation white paper.

“Too many Australians have been left out to dry when flights are cancelled or disrupted and it’s impossibly complex to get a refund or even contact a company representative,” she said.

“Customers deserve to get their money back if they are owed it. Full stop.

“It is time to take strong action to protect consumer rights with an Aviation Industry Ombuds Scheme and Charter of Customer Rights.”

The move comes two years after the government flagged plans to review the aviation sector and set long-term policies and reforms for the industry’s growth.

Under the scheme, an independent agency will be set up to resolve disputes between airlines and passengers by 2026.

The new body will have powers to compel airlines and airports to provide remedies to customers and will be tasked with publishing reports into their conduct.

It will also be called on to establish a framework of traveller’s rights, including when passengers are entitled to cash refund for cancelled or delayed flights.

Airlines will be mandated to report reasons for delays to the government, with the effort hoped to increase transparency and public accountability.

The announcement comes after the Australian Consumer and Competition Commission reported cancellation rates had fallen below the long-term average for the first time since October 2020 in its latest quarterly domestic aviation monitoring report.

Australia’s aviation industry has been rocked this year with the collapse of Bonza and uncertain future of Rex leading to concerns prices could increase for the remaining domestic carriers.

Meanwhile, the government will also strengthen the rights of people with disability while travelling and enforce stricter compliance by airlines.

“Through our consultation we heard clearly that the treatment of people with disability by the

airlines and airports is not good enough,” Ms King said.

“People have been left stranded on planes, forced to return to their departure port or had to put up with poor treatment due to a lack of access to appropriate facilities at their destination.”

Social Services Minister Amanda Rishworth said new standards would be developed and better scrutiny for airlines and airports would be enforced to “create a more inclusive society for the more than one in five Australians with a disability.”

“People with disability continue to encounter inaccessible facilities and services at airports and

face unhelpful practices and systems adopted by airlines, with evidence to this effect heard

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throughout the disability royal commission,” Ms Rishworth said.

“They have a right to fair treatment, and to compensation when their essential equipment is

damaged or destroyed.”

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A Kiwi ship captain is reportedly now being focused on by authorities after the demise of seven people aboard a superyacht.

A new gender-neutral title for a soon-to-be-appointed aviation watchdog has raised eyebrows.

Aussies have snapped up hundreds of long-haul first class fares for just $4300 return – but it is not as it seems.