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How to Become a Travel Agent and Work From Home

Author: Holly Reisem Hanna

June 1, 2023 Leave a Comment

Do you love to travel? Do you have wanderlust? Are you a master at finding great travel deals?

Becoming a work from home travel agent might be your ideal work at home career path!

Working as a travel agent might seem a little outdated in today’s world of Kayak and Airbnb, but in reality, many people still prefer to work with travel agents.

Experienced travel planners help travelers save money, time, and travel-related headaches.

Home-based travel agents generally work for a host agency (a company bonded and accredited by the Airlines Reporting Corporation or the International Airlines Travel Agents Network) as independent contractors.

As a travel agent, you’ll earn a commission on the travel arrangements (flights, hotels, rental cars, travel excursions , and more) you book, and you’ll often have access to special deals and travel discounts. You can choose to work in a particular niche, such as cruises or business travel, or work with clients looking into a specific type of travel (adventure, Disney vacations, eco-friendly, budget, or luxury travel).

One of the great things about becoming a work at home travel agent is that it’s a relatively easy startup business idea, and the costs are low. With a basic home office (including an internet connection, a phone, computer, printer, and website), you can get started with a host agency.

So if you love to travel or if you love to help other people fulfill their vacation dreams, you may want to start a home-based travel agent business!

What Skills Do You Need to Be a Travel Agent?

The basic skills you’ll need as a travel agent include attention to detail, excellent research and communication skills, high-level organizational skills, and a knowledge of geography and travel destinations. You’ll also need to be tech-savvy and have a solid understanding of programs like Microsoft Office and Google Workspace. 

If you’re working as an independent contractor, the host company will usually train you; some host agencies charge a fee, while others do not. While there are travel agent certificate programs that you can take, you may be able to break into a travel role if you have customer service, hospitality, marketing, or sales experience under your belt.

Getting Started as a Work at Home Travel Agent

According to Host Agency Reviews, travel agents with three years of experience make an average of $46,400 per year . However, there are some travel agents making six figures per year. It all depends on your experience, the number of clients you retain, hours worked, and commission and support from your host agency.

Agents who work in specific markets or on particular vacation types (like destination weddings or luxury travel) can become very familiar with their market and, thus, enjoy even greater success. Working in particular markets, like weddings or corporate travel, can also make a big difference regarding salary.

Remote Travel Agent and Consultant Jobs

If starting your own business seems intimidating, many companies within the travel and hospitality industry hire at-home travel consultants, reservationists, and planners for full-time and part-time positions. Best of all, many of these positions come with travel perks!

To start, you may want to explore:

• American Express
• Kemp Travel Group
• Vail Resorts
• Working Solutions
• World Travel Holdings

Exploring Host Agencies

Finding a good host agency is key to getting started as an at-home travel agent. If you’re just starting, you’ll want to familiarize yourself with host agency options to get a feel for what each can offer.

• American Society of Travel Advisors
• Cruise Planners
• Disney Vacation Planner
• Dream Vacations Advisors
• Dugan’s Travel

How to Select a Great Host Agency

When it comes to what they offer their consultants, travel agencies vary significantly. There are many factors to consider besides who offers the best commission.

For example, do you prefer a large agency or a small agency? Locally-based hosting can be easier for new agents who might need extensive support and training. On the other hand, national agencies may offer more flexibility and growth.

Carefully weigh your agency options and perform background research. Sites like Host Agency Reviews and Find a Host Travel Agency can help. They offer tips and ratings for finding the best travel agency that fits your needs.

Perks of Becoming a Travel Agent

Aside from being a fun business opportunity, being a travel agent offers some amazing perks .

If you enjoy travel, you might enjoy taking “FAM trips” or “familiarization trips” to various locales. Cruise lines, hotels, and tour guides know the best way for you to sell their services is for you to try them firsthand. So they offer perks, including complementary and deeply discounted fares, as well as opportunities to use their services and explore all your amazing options.

You can also save big on your own travel with great discounts! You’ll score awesome deals before anyone else even hears about them. As a travel agent, you’ll have access to discounts because, of course, the more you travel, the more business experience you rack up.

The best part? You can deduct those travel expenses from your taxes as part of your business! You can also deduct things like advertising and expenses related to your clients. This amounts to big tax savings for you!

Other Ways to Make Money in the Travel Industry

If you love the idea of working and traveling, but you’re unsure about becoming a travel agent or consultant, there are many other options available.

Traveling to another country as an Au Pair is a great option if you enjoy working with children. When you work as an Au Pair, you’ll live with a family, helping them with household chores and childcare. In return, you’ll get free room and board and a small stipend that you can use on your days off. Being an Au Pair allows you to experience life in another country for an extended period of time. Becoming an Au Pair does come with some fees you’ll need to pay, such as your flights, travel visa, and insurance.

Customer Service Representative

Customer service is an excellent way to break into the travel industry and work from home! Many companies provide full training for these roles as well as a host of benefits. You can work for airlines, hotels, cruise lines, travel booking sites, and other travel-related sites and industries. For these work from home positions, you’ll generally need your own device (laptop or computer) and a high-speed internet connection. Check out this article for a list of hospitality companies that hire remote customer service reps.

ESL Teacher

You’ve probably heard of being an online ESL tutor , but did you know you can travel to another country to teach English as a second language? Most countries require ESL teachers to have a bachelor’s degree and a TEFL (Teaching English as a Foreign Language) certificate. Like being an Au Pair, there will be fees for your flights, travel visa, and insurance. Depending on which host company you use and which country to travel to, your housing may be free or purchased at a reduced cost. How much you can earn will vary as well. For more information on traveling and making money as an ESL tutor, check out the resources below.

• EF (Education First)
• International TEFL Academy
• Premier TEFL

Local Coordinator

If you enjoy working with high school and college students, consider becoming a local coordinator . In these independent contracting roles, you’ll work with educational organizations and programs to place and mentor students interested in foreign exchange programs. These part-time positions are a flexible and easy way to make extra money from home. Some programs also offer incentive trips and perks for their local coordinators.

• Education, Travel, and Culture – Earn $700-$1,600 per student
• International Cultural Exchange Services (ICES) – Average earnings are $8,000 a year

Social Media Marketer Specializing in Travel

Do you love to travel and you’re looking for ways to earn money from home, there are plenty of opportunities to take your travel beyond Instagram snaps and shares on Facebook… but if you’re really great at social media, you could also become a social media manager in the travel industry! Many of these positions allow you to work from home for a travel-based company, sharing posts and connecting with their customers.

If you prefer to create your own schedule and be your own boss, become a local tour guide! With this idea, you’ll need to be in the know about the food, culture, and history of the area you’re helping tourists explore. With apps like  Showaround  and  Viator , you can create your tour, book customers, and make money from your travel expertise. You can also look at local tour operators and see if they have any openings for tour guides. Explore this article for more tips on making money as a tour guide .

Travel Writer

Magazines, guidebooks, and websites are often looking for freelance travel writers to contribute their experiences and give readers recommendations. If you have writing and communication skills and you travel often, this might be an excellent option for you.

The income for travel writers varies greatly, but many writers make great money by documenting and sharing their travels. Travel writers, according to ZipRecruiter , earn an average of $24 per hour. I think these numbers sound high, but I wasn’t able to find any other stats for how much travel writers really earn.

Travel Blogger

If you prefer to write and document your own travels, start a travel blog ! With blogging, you can make money with affiliate marketing, ad networks, sponsorships, product sales, and more! The great thing about blogging is it’s affordable and easy to set up, and there are many free ways to promote your content through social media. My friend, Julie Bonner, has a travel blog where she documents her family’s RV travels. In one year, she was able to generate $5,000 a month from her blog, all while traveling the United States and Canada.

Travel Influencer

Have you been documenting your travels on social media? Then make money while traveling the world as a social media travel influencer. Whether your specialty is Instagram , Pinterest, TikTok , or YouTube , you can earn good money through paid sponsorships, advertising, and affiliate marketing. Besides building an engaged audience of followers, you’ll need to become skilled at taking photos and videos, editing, and writing captions. How much you can earn as a travel influencer will depend on how many followers you have, your reach, your engagement, and which platforms you’re using. According to this article in Vogue , a travel influencer with 1-4 million followers can earn $31,000 per post!

Travel Nurse

If you’re a registered nurse , you can sign up to become a travel nurse. These nurses travel to areas where there are nursing shortages in work in a wide variety of settings. Nurses typically work in one location for 13-16 weeks, then move on to another location. Not only is travel nursing a great way to see the country, but it’s also lucrative. The average travel nurse can earn $59.66 per hour plus housing stipends. If you’re interested in travel nursing, check out these sites for assignments.

• Health Carousel Travel Nursing

If you have a passion for travel, there are many ways you can earn money working in the travel industry. From becoming a work at home travel agent to finding ways to document and share your own travel experiences—there’s an opportunity for every traveler out there. Explore your options and pack your suitcase! Check out this post if you’re looking for ways to make money while you travel the world!

Originally published February 25, 2009. Updated June 2023.

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About the Author

Holly Reisem Hanna

Holly Reisem Hanna is a former nurse who decided to start a blog to make money from home while caring for her daughter. Since its inception in 2009, The Work at Home Woman has helped millions of readers find legitimate work at home jobs and business ideas. Under Holly's guidance, The Work at Home Woman was named one of the best websites for your career by Forbes two years in a row. Holly graduated from the University of Texas and has been featured in Yahoo Finance, Woman’s World Magazine, CNN, and many others.

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How to Become a Home-Based Travel Agent: Everything You Need to Know

Nothing feels better than being your own boss. ​In most fields, you need the infrastructure and support of a reputable corporation to reach anything beyond the low-hanging fruit. In the travel industry, things are changing—and if you move now, you can catch the wave.

While the industry used to be dominated by travel agencies, it is increasingly the domain of independent agents. Experienced agents already have the knowledge, training, and qualifications they need to professionally book travel arrangements for clients. According to a 2018 survey, 61% of these independent travel agents make between 10-30% more than when they worked for an agency, and 23.5% earn more than 30% more! The most attractive part of starting your own independent travel agency is the freedom to work for yourself, on your own hours, with your own clients, in your own home. But like all good things, independence comes with risks. As an independent travel agent, you have to assume the risks of entrepreneurship. You must also develop a personal brand that distinguishes you from other agents and from corporate agencies. The right tools and partnerships can empower you to overcome these obstacles and start working for yourself. Once you learn how to become a home-based travel agent, you will truly be able to enjoy your freedom and earn top commissions working directly with clients. You will be free to decide when, where, and for whom you work—and this guide will show you how.

How to Become a Travel Agent from Home in 3 Steps

If you have experience in the travel industry, then you're at a great advantage, however even if you're just starting, becoming your own agency breaks down to five crucial steps:

1. Find Your Grove

Customers look to independent travel agents for individualized customer service and niche expertise they can't get from a corporate agency. Although you may have experience with cruise lines, scuba trips, honeymoons, and adventure trips, you need to choose the types of travel experiences you're most familiar with and focus on them. Once you know what your preferred niche is, you need to learn everything there is to know about it. This could mean being an expert in a specific destination—in its local customs, cultures, languages, and tourist attractions—or being an expert in a particular type of vacation. In today's travel environment, we usually see the best results when independent agents combine different travel specialties to create a niche. For instance, combining scuba and cruise ship trips, or adventures and honeymoons. Whatever your combined niche is, your clients will expect you to have answers for all of their questions, so be prepared to deliver. The key to thriving as a home-based travel agent is knowing what your clients want and being able to deliver before they have to ask for it. Focusing on your niche allows you to deeply understand your clients and create a personal brand that speaks to their needs. Young, adventure-minded travelers, for instance, will respond to edgy, exciting brand messaging. Retired veterans, on the other hand, demand different treatment—you must know your client. As a home-based travel agent, you are directly responsible for your income. If you haven't brushed up on your sales skills, you may want to. Travel Quest World, EDGE, and regional travel conferences can help you create a solid foundation for your future. Not only must you make sales without the large corporate team backing you up, but you also have to tend to the needs of a more demanding customer base—people willing to pay extra for premium service.

2. Consider a Host Agency

Independent travel agents still need to use state-of-the-art technology to manage their customer relationships, make timely bookings, and track commissions accurately. You still need a top-shelf insurance policy to handle potential liabilities. Partnering with a host agency gives you access to these important tools and benefits. This is a secret that large corporate travel agencies don't want you to know. The truth is that becoming an independent travel agent doesn't mean you're completely on your own. The key to starting a successful travel agency while working from home is choosing the right host agency to collaborate with. The travel industry has evolved. Home-based independent travel agents are becoming the new norm because much of the time-consuming legwork that goes into making travel plans for clients can be streamlined and scaled using new technology. The same Internet that enables travelers to book their own flights and make their own travel arrangements also makes travel agents' jobs easier. And although it may seem counterintuitive, the hyper-connected Millennial generation actually relies on travel agencies more than previous generations do. This means that independent agents will spend less time typing code into a Global Distribution System (GDS) and more time talking to clients about exciting opportunities off-the-beaten-path. In fact, one in three leisure travel agents and one in five corporate travel agents prefer using the Internet to using a GDS. But there are still certain things you need to assure your new career as an independent travel agent is a successful one. Host agencies lay the groundwork for you to showcase your expertise and deliver value to travelers while retaining 100% ownership of your travel brand.

3. What to Look For in a Host Agency

Not many people will tell you that when you learn how to become an independent travel agent, what you're really learning is how to become your own sales team, your own customer support service, your own commission manager, and your own marketing expert. That's where having access to the powerful, intuitive tools host agencies make available becomes useful. Some of these tools include:

Web Development and Design. Having a state-of-the-art website is an absolute necessity for today's independent travel agents. Potential clients will be browsing your website to determine how professional and trustworthy you are. Host agencies can provide you with destination-specific content, booking engines, and special trip information that boosts your online presence significantly.

Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software. You can't run your own home-based travel agency on Microsoft Excel. A professional host agency will provide you with a customized CRM solution that enables powerful, intuitive management of client profiles according to a variety of unique, indexed factors.

Commission Management and Accounting Tools. Independent travel agents need 24/7 access to an accounting platform that shows open invoices, close invoices, unpaid commissions, and more. Customized reporting lets you be your own accountant and stay on top of your financial situation with ease and accuracy.

Travel Agent Networking. When you work in a niche, your competition isn't so competitive anymore. Through your host agency, you can connect with other independent travel agents to cooperate, share contacts, and forge new relationships.

Which Host Agency is Best?

Choosing between host agencies for independent travel agents is one of the hardest decisions to make. Many organizations offer technical and marketing support to home-based travel agents, but not all of them represent an equal value. Dozens of these agencies exist, and each one offers different benefits and drawbacks to its network of independent travel agents. To choose the right one for you, follow these guidelines:

Identify What You're Looking For. Your host agency should complement your strengths and compensate for your weaknesses. If you're great at connecting with clients but not so experienced with customer management support and marketing, those would be the areas you want to focus on.

Ask for References. Remember that as an independent agent, you are interviewing hosts, not the other way around. Find other agents who are working with the host in question and find out what they have to say about the host's resources and offerings.

Look Beyond the Commission Split. Your commission split is just a small part of the overall equation that will determine your success as a home-based travel agent. The best host travel agency is not necessarily the one that offers the best split, but that offers the best value.

Choose a Pure Host Agency. Not all host agencies are really host agencies. Most retail travel agencies offer a few home-based travel agent jobs with commissions. A few of them believe this lets them describe themselves as host agencies—which they are not.

If an agency runs its own internal sales process parallel to yours, that creates a conflict of interest.

Is Travel Quest Network the Right Host Agency for You?

When you want to learn how to become a travel agent from home, you need to approach every relationship you build from a place of honesty and professionalism. When you run your own company and put your name on the line, your reputation takes the hit when things don't go as planned. As a result, it pays to spend time interviewing host agencies and finding the right one to fit your needs. When you're learning how to become a home-based travel agent, remember that the best host travel agency is the one that gives you the tools and knowledge you need to maximize the success of your independent business. Ready to take the first step towards financial independence as a home-based travel agent? Talk to Travel Quest Network today and we'll show you how to get started.

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Your First Steps to Establishing a Home-Based Travel Agency

In recent times, there's no denying the skyrocketing interest in the tourism industry – changing economies, evolving market trends, and the allure of fresh experiences have all played their part. One trend that has emerged from these changes? More and more people are opening their home-based travel agencies. But how does one become a travel agent from the comfort of one's own home? Below, we break down the steps to establishing a successful work-from-home travel agent business with Gateway Travel.

Exploring The Potential of A Work from Home Travel Agent Business

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, it's crucial to understand what you're getting into when you decide to start a travel business. The world of tourism is an ever-evolving beast, and becoming a travel agent offers a unique opportunity to tap into this exciting industry – from the comfort of your own home.

Working as a home-based travel agent not only provides amazing flexibility but also opens a world brimming with potential. You get to design unique travel experiences, collaborate with industry leaders, stay updated on latest trends, and carve out a profitable business without stepping out of your home.

Understanding What Becoming a Travel Agent Entails

To set up a home-based travel agency, you need more than just a love of travel. It involves an understanding of clients' needs, knowing your travel products, mastering sales strategies, and being a problem solver.

Firstly , you need to know your customers. Understanding their needs, tastes, and budget is key to providing a service that will leave them thrilled.

Secondly , understanding the travel products holds particular importance. This refers to knowing the details about various accommodations, modes of transportation, local attractions, travel insurance, and more.

Thirdly , you need to master your sales strategies: how do you sell your products to potential clients in a manner that's convincing but not pushy? How do you negotiate the best deals for your clients?

Lastly , being a problem solver is important. Travel plans can have hiccups, and you need to ensure you're there for your clients' when they encounter any problems on their trip.

Gateway Travel: Your Partner In This Journey

Starting a home-based travel agency might seem like an overwhelming task, but you don't have to do it alone. With Gateway Travel, you're supported every step of the way.

Gateway Travel offers a comprehensive partnership program that guides you through establishing your own business, providing an extensive resource database, marketing support, tech tools, and a robust, user-friendly booking portal.

The Road to Becoming a Travel Agent

Now that we've covered the basics, here are the practical steps to setting up your home-based travel business:

1. Get educated: Before you start your travel business, it's essential to build a foundation of knowledge in the industry. Various courses and certifications can equip you with the skills needed to excel in this field.

2. Choose a niche: The next step is to decide on your niche – your area of focus or specialty as a travel agent. Your niche could be anything from luxury cruises to hiking tours, destination weddings, or eco-tourism.

3. Create a business plan: Once you've identified your niche, formulate a business plan. This document will serve as a roadmap for your business, outlining objectives, strategies, budgeting, and other crucial aspects of your venture.

4. Register your business: Register your home-based travel agency with your relevant local and national authorities. Each country and region may have different laws and regulations regarding this.

5. Partner with Gateway Travel: At this stage, joining a host agency like Gateway Travel becomes an essential step. They’ll provide you with the tools, resources, and guidance needed to kick-start your business successfully.

6. Market Your Business: Finally, create a brand, set up a website, leverage social media platforms, and employ other digital marketing strategies to make your services known to potential clients.

Final Thoughts

When you're all set up and running, you'll quickly see how rewarding and exciting becoming a travel agent can be. Yes, it's a challenging journey, but thanks to companies like Gateway Travel, it's a journey that can be navigated smoothly. They provide all the resources, including their in-depth knowledge, accessible tools, and a supportive community, helping you every step of the way.

Working from home as a travel agent is a promising and flexible opportunity in the dynamic tourism industry, combining a love for travel with a profitable pursuit. Ready to embark on your journey? Start building your successful home-based travel agency today!

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Your Host Agency & Training School Partner

Supporting your success as an independent travel advisor.

ATHome  is a training school and host agency division of Atlas Travel & Technology Group , offering a comprehensive training for anyone interested in learning to become a successful, independent Travel Advisor, as well as a premier, full-service host program for the seasoned Travel Advisor looking for a complete suite of booking, marketing & technology tools and first-class support.

An Award-Winning Company

In addition to ATHome Host Agency & Travel School , Atlas Travel & Technology Group is comprised of:

Atlas Travel , an industry-leading travel agency that provides industry-renowned vacation and cruise services, corporate travel management and meeting and event planning.

Prime Numbers Technology , a comprehensive suite of travel program savings solutions, including data analytics and benchmarking, spend optimization, contract and vendor sourcing analysis to maximize the ROI.

Commited To Your Success

Our industry-leading technology, marketing tools and steadfast independent Travel Advisor support sets ATHome  apart from our competition as a premiere host travel agency.

We are deeply committed to investing in our independent Travel Advisors to keep their businesses thriving. Simply put, your success is our success.

ATHome will provide you with all the tools you need to increase your earnings, build exceptional, long-term client loyalty and plan flawless vacations, through maximizing your travel expertise and sales opportunities.

We’d love to welcome you into the ATHome family today!

ATHome Benefits

Explore the many exciting reasons to make ATHome your host agency and training school, which truly set us apart from the others!

ATHome includes much more than other host agencies, designed to maximize your membership benefits and exceed your expectations!

Our innovative marketing tools, exclusive preferred supplier promotions and custom-designed templates will really elevate your business!

As your host agency, ATHome is your partner in entrepreneurial success, delivering state-of-the-art technology that makes a difference!

We’re with you every step of the way — from coaching and training, to providing the support you need for your business to continue to grow!

Maximize your profit with our competitive commission structure and investment in the infrastructure of your business!

ATHome’s consortia trainings, industry-leading education and resource library are part of our difference that will positively impact your sales!

What Our Members Say

After much research and looking into other agencies, I decided to make ATHome my host agency and have no regrets. I immediately felt the comradery and warmth from Elaine and Lynn. They answered my numerous questions in a timely manner, were available when I came across an issue that I was unsure of and made sure that I was connected to multiple suppliers. Although they aren't one of the biggest agencies, in my opinion they are the best. I'm happy with the decision that I made and am looking forward to a long and successful partnership.

- Aiyana Phillips

I have been working with ATHome (AARC) since 2008. I have been really pleased with the support and training I have received. They are always receptive and helpful when I call. The staff are knowledgeable and informative. They have always assisted me with any questions or problems that arise. I would recommend them as a host agency for anyone who wants to become a travel advisor.

- Jesse Mash

I retired from the Navy and was looking for a way to supplement my retirement and work from home. I loved travel and started researching the business and how to get started. I settled on ATHome as they provided everything I needed to get started. The training, website and access to the best travel providers. From the start you are treated like a professional the staff is very responsive to your needs and provide excellent support. They make you feel special, whether it is your first booking or your millionth. If you love travel and helping other live their dreams, I would highly recommend ATHome to give you the tools, training and edge you need to succeed.

- Joseph Bishop

At Home is an awesome host company to be a member of. I have been a member for years. They are professional and prompt in answering questions and addressing any issues. The company communicates the most recent travel updates and provides current travel trainings. Travel support on bookings and payment are completed expeditiously. 

- Zenobia Cureton

Are you interested in travel? Would you like to help others find their dream vacations? I strongly recommend ATHome. I found them online approximately six years ago and am retired and running a home-based travel agency. The courses supplied are comprehensive and you have a mentor to help you through any rough spots. When you are through with your training, tools are provided for you to begin working in this awesome industry. The mentors during training do not go away after you start your business; there is a team of people providing you with all the support you will ever need. I personally have two very special individuals that are always right here when I need them. When I email or phone, my questions or concerns are taken care of. I want to add we have just been introduced to a new training and booking site that is wonderful!

- Sharron Motry

ATHome has been great. Starting a new travel agency is sometimes challenging. ATHome walked me through everything. Each time I came across something I was not certain of, they were quick to help me. They have helped my first year as a travel advisor to be a successful one.

- Cynthia Seitz

I am new to being a travel advisor. I'm learning a lot. Everyone has been very helpful. All of my questions are answered and information that I didn't ask about is given. You all go above and beyond. I will be booking my first trip this weekend and have five more clients who have requested my services.

- Ronda Grandberry

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• Perfect Match: Finding the Best Host Agency Partner

Written by: KHM Staff on February 14, 2024

By: Anita Pagliasso, Vice President of Industry Relations

Most home-based travel agents who choose to work with a host agency do so because they find it is easier to accomplish their goals and earn a higher income rather than trying to make it on their own. But finding the best host agency can be as challenging as finding your perfect soulmate. 

Make a list of your specialties, areas of expertise, and the type of business that you want to focus on. Confirm that the host agency is compatible to accepting your type of business and can support the needs of your client database.

Use Internet to help do your homework. Compare commission structures, upfront fees, and benefits. If you are brand new to the travel industry you will probably need a mentor, a lot of support, and a host agency that has an education program in place. If you are an experienced travel consultant , look for a company that can support your growing business, pay higher commission, and offer perks that you could not attain on your own.

Mix n’ Match

Make sure that the agency has the right balance of benefits.

• Do they belong to a consortium?
• Do they pay commissions timely?
• Do they offer bonus commission and booking incentives?
• What kind of ongoing education is offered?
• What type of database management system (if any) is included?
• Do they provide ways to connect with other travel agents?
• What industry associations do they belong to?
• How long have they been in business?
• If there are start-up fees, what do they include?

Prevent fires in advance by asking to see a copy of the host agency’s independent contractor agreement. Ask if they have an Errors and Omissions insurance policy. You can always check with the Better Business Bureau and the state Attorney General’s office to see if any complaints have been filed against them. 

Match Maker

Ask for recommendations from other agents that you meet at supplier and networking events. Or explore a website like Host Agency Reviews or Fynd Travel . Nothing explains more about a host agency than firsthand testimonials from agents.

Meet your (Best Host Agency) Match

Whenever possible, it would be ideal to set up a meeting to personally talk with the host agency. Reading up on a host agency is great, but does not always portray the expressions and enthusiasm you would get in a personal one-on-one call or live chat.

Match Point!

The final point to a winning business relationship is that it should feel like a mutually rewarding association. The company you select should be as excited about your eagerness to learn and grow as you are…after all, in the end you will both share in the success of your business.

Is becoming a travel agent with KHM Travel Group the right fit for you? Contact us at 888-611-1220 or send us a message to learn more!

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Host Agency Reviews is an independent website connecting travel agents to industry resources. We connect advisors to host agencies, franchises, consortia, and industry events, while providing stellar resources through our blog and podcast. Founded by Steph Lee, HAR is the largest B2B travel industry directory on the web. Oh, and we like to have fun. Lots of fun.

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Planning a trip to Moscow? Our travel guide contains up-to-date, personal information on everything from what to see , to when to visit , where to stay , and what to eat !

• General Information
• What to see
• How to get to Moscow
• Where to stay
• Where to eat

Why visit Moscow?

Majestic churches, impressive historic fortresses, and palatial buildings: Moscow is a fascinating city whose emblematic architecture reflects the turbulent history that has defined Russia throughout the centuries.

The traces of the USSR can be found around every corner of the city , side by side with the iconic relics of Imperial Russia , like the mythical Red Square , the imposing Kremlin , and the beautiful  St Basil's Cathedral . 

Discover a fascinating world of Cold War bunkers, golden-domed basilicas, world-class art museums, and the legendary "palace of the people,"  as the Moscow Metro has been nicknamed. Whether you fancy watching a classical Russian ballet at the Bolshoi Theatre , perusing the fine arts at the Pushkin Museum , or marveling at the sheer size of the monuments to the Soviet state's achievements at the  All-Russia Exhibition Centre , this travel guide will help you on your way!

Where to start?

If you're going to travel to Moscow and you don't know much about the city yet, the first thing to do is to dive into its legendary history - understanding the past will help you understand the present. Next, check out our practical hints and tips on traveling to the city before discovering which of its most important museums , monuments , and attractions pique your interest.

Looking for a place to stay?

Booking your accommodation in advance is the best way to get great discounts. Our detailed guide on where to stay in Moscow  will help you decide which neighborhood you'd like to look for hotels or apartments in, and our hotel search engine will find you the best deals!

Why is our Moscow travel guide the best?

Introducing Moscow is a  city guide written by travelers for travelers  and contains personalized advice to help you make the most of your trip to the city.

All the information in this guide is valid as of December 2022. If you find any errors or have any comments, please feel free to contact us .

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Moscow Travel Guide

• Guide to Russia
• Russian Destination Guide

Why travel to Moscow

Contrasts: 12th century monasteries and some of the tallest skyscrapers in Europe can be found side-by-side in this complex and captivating city. The diversity of this mega-city is astounding. Only a few steps away from the solemn red facade of the Kremlin and the sounds of righteous church bells, a buzzing night scene and alternative-fashion boutiques can be found.

Culture: In Moscow only the best goes. Be it a theatre, restaurant or gallery, the standards are certain to be world-class. The Bolshoi ballet company is reputed to be even better than the Mariinsky’s and “MMOMA” (Moscow’s museum of modern art) exhibits works of art as profound as any that could be found in the famed MOMA.

Convenience: Unlike the rest of Russia, it’s easy enough to get by with just English in Moscow and, driving excepted, it is surprisingly safe: the murder rate is lower than in some of America’s major cities.

Top Sights in Moscow

St. Basil’s

Novodevichy Convent

MORE SIGHTS

• Moscow Fact File
• History of Moscow Russia
• Arriving in Moscow
• Getting Around
• Moscow Museums
• Nightlife in Moscow
• Moscow Restaurants
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• Outside Moscow

FEATURED MOSCOW TOURS

See tours which enjoy highest popularity with our customers

CLASSIC MOSCOW

A WEEK IN MOSCOW

WEEKEND IN MOSCOW

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Why visit Moscow

It would take more than two days to walk around the perimeter of the biggest city in Europe, Moscow. Many of its inhabitants barely know what’s beyond the few blocks around their flat and there are so many attractions that it’s almost impossible to know where to start. If there is such a thing as an antidote to boredom, Moscow City is it. The mind-boggling range and diversity of things to do, places to eat, parks, historical monuments and more means that a vacation in Moscow has a wealth of activities to offer for every type of traveler, from young families to retirees.

Reasons to Vacation in Moscow in 2022

The Bolshoi theatre is familiar to almost everyone as Russia’s grandest theatre, but what people don’t know is that there are many more bolshoi (big) sites in Moscow that are worth travelling all the way to Moscow to see. For more than 100 years, the world’s biggest bell has been hidden behind the Kremlin’s walls and inside Moscow’s main park (which is bigger than some countries!) there is the world’s largest outdoor ice-rink. Travelers that visit Moscow can stay at the Izmailovo, Europe’s biggest hotel, then eat at the largest and most historic McDonald’s in Europe and after that have fun at the largest European indoor theme park!

Ancient Past & Stunning Architecture:

As those who travel to Moscow will see, just because Moscow is a city of record-breaking, glitzy high-rises doesn’t mean that there is no history. On the famous Arbat street, time-worn, wooden storehouses and century-old churches are squashed up against grey, soviet blocks which are then towered over by 21st century office-blocks. Unlike its much younger sibling, St Petersburg, Moscow’s roots stretch way back to the 12th century. Within the walls of the Kremlin, the city’s oldest building the Cathedral of Assumption can be admired in all its 500+ years of age.

Culture & Convenience

For a foreigner who has never visited Russia, Moscow is the perfect stepping stone into this great land of mystery. From the country’s best classical ballet troupes to snow-white troikas trotting through the parks, all the highlights of Russian culture can be had in Moscow without any of the complications that would be expected in other, less developed regions of Russia.

Cheap as Caviar

In Moscow, everything is bargain when with the current foreign exchange rates being what they are. Even caviar doesn’t seem so dear when the exchange rate is at 60rub to the dollar, so go on indulge yourself! Take your 2022 vacation in Moscow and have the best of both worlds, with European luxury at very affordable prices.

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

We had a great time both in Moscow and St Petersburg. Your travel agency was excellent in coordinating the whole trip. Everything worked like clockwork. The guides assigned to us were very nice and friendly. They had a great knowledge of their subjects. The cars and the drivers were great. The hotels were good and the itinerary was good. All in all, it was a wonderful experience. It was nice dealing with you and your company. Thank you very much for a great Russian experience. Have a great future ahead

• 31 reviews of Express to Russia Moscow Tours in Moscow

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Visit Moscow Tours

Saint Petersburg - Karelia 9 days - 8 nights

Moscow - Saint Petersburg tour package 8 days/7 nights

Moscow - saint petersburg 5 days/4 nights.

Moscow - Saint Petersburg 6 days/5 nights

Sochi tour 8 days/7 nights

Altai tour package 11 days/10 nights

Murmansk 4 days/3 nights

Happy New Year tour package- best price 8 days/7 nights

Baikal tour package 7 days/6 nights

Christmas tour package- best price 5 days/4 nights

Moscow tour package 4 days/3 nights.

Special Winter Edition Tour 8 days/7 nights

Saint Peterburg tour package 4 days/3 nights

Moscow-Kazan-Saint Petersburg 9 days/8 nights

Moscow-Suzdal-Saint Petersburg 9 days/8 nights

Moscow-Saint Peterburg tour package 8 days/7 nights BEST DEAL (15th of MAY-22d of MAY only)

Moscow-sochi tour package 6 days/5 nights.

Moscow - Velikiy Novgorod - Saint Petersburg tour package 9 days/8 nights

Moscow-Saint Petersburg-Baikal lake 14 days/13 nights

Moscow-Saint Petersburg-Sochi tour package 10 days/9 nights

Moscow-Altai tour package 14 days/13 nights

Moscow-Murmansk-Saint Petersburg 11 days/10 nights

Saint Petersburg - Karelia 8 days/7 nights

Moscow tour package 5 days/4 nights including tank riding and Stalin Bunker visit

Moscow-Saint Petersburg tour package 7 days/6 nights including tank riding and Stalin Bunker visit

Magic Ice of Baikal Lake - 7 days / 6 nights

SPA tour package Grozny (Chechnya) 4 days - 3 nights

Hiking tour package Dagestan 5 days - 4 nights

Suzdal and Vladimir Tour

Moscow Kremlin Tour

River Cruise Tour

Driving Tour around Saint Petersburg

Peterhof Tour

Moscow Driving Tour

Moscow in 1 Day (Walking tour)

Welcome to visit moscow tours.

We provide authentic, informative and memorable tour packages and city tours, at very competitive prices. Visit Moscow Tours are available not only in Moscow, but also in other cities: Saint Petersburg, Kazan, Suzdal and Sergiev Posad.  We also organise customised individual programs tailored just for you.

Our guests come in large groups, small private groups, as couples or as single travellers. We take care of and treat our guests with respect in a friendly and warm family environment. We show people our beautiful cities with passion and deep knowledge of their history, culture and traditions.

Our guides are extremely hospitable, helpful and well-informed. They are simply the best because only by providing the best services can we make the world fall in love with Russia. And we are very happy when our guests say that they will definitely come back to Russia and that they will tell all their friends how great Russia is! That is what inspires us to put even more dedication and hard work into our tours, knowing that what we do is positive and meaningful.

Our classic tours include tours of Moscow and Saint Petersburg, two main Russian cities.

Moscow is a big and busy  megalopolis and Russia’s capital city, where more than 12 million people live and work. Our capital city is happening place; it is mysterious, elegant, luxurious, fashionable, clean and bright, with its unique legends, traditions and events. It is with great pride that we show the Red Square and the Kremlin, our Underground and Tretyakovskaya Gallery, among other stunning attractions.

Saint Petersburg is our second capital,  the second largest city in the Russian Federation. This wonderful city has a strong and lively aristocratic spirit, uniquely Russian royal architecture, magnificent museums and theatres. Saint Petersburg bears the royal heritage of Russia, which can be felt in its air, its streets, parks, monuments, museums and citizens.  In Saint Petersburg tours, we will take you to the Hermitage, Peter and Paul Fortress, Faberge Museum and Orthodox Cathedrals. We’re sure you will love it!

If you have a few more days to spare, venture into the dreamy Russian countryside in Suzdal or Sergiev Posad. Suzdal is a small town with a population of about ten thousand people, situated on less than 15 square kilometres. This tiny area is home to 53 historic cathedrals, five monasteries and a kremlin. Church domes are visible like mushrooms from anywhere and everywhere in the town like in a fairy tale. No wonder Suzdal is called the ‘Town Museum”.  It is definitely worth visiting!

Just try any of Visit Moscow Tours’ tour packages or any individual city tour, and we promise that you will want to come back to Russia again.  Russia is huge with countless amazing places to visit. There are so many unique experiences to be had and energies to be felt that one tour is definitely not enough to explore this vast land. It is also a very safe destination to travel, and we have a tradition of warm hospitality. Our people adore and take care of visitors as our own guests, and even if they do not know your language very well, they still try to be helpful and hospitable.

Our guides will show you the most interesting attractions and historical places, taking you on a journey to the past to enjoy stories of medieval times, the Romanov monarchy, the Soviet Era. And of course, we will show you the contemporary life of our country through authentic local experiences.

We look forward to meeting you soon!