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

By Scott Bay

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.

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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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Everything You Need to Know About Becoming a Travel Agent

Here's what you should know before becoming a travel agent.

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If you're someone who spends your days scanning flights , loves hotel rewards points, and in general, is a fervent traveler, you've probably wondered how to become a travel agent.

And, while it's true that living in the age of Expedia means travel agents are not as vital as they once were, people use them a lot more than you might think. Just because travelers aren't calling up an agent every time they need to book a quick flight doesn't mean they don't want to consult an expert for a big trip. This holds especially true when it comes to honeymoons or experiential trips that have a lot of moving parts — coordinating tour companies , translators, or multiple resort stays, for example. It's often easier to leave the logistics to someone else: travel agents.

You don't need a specific employment background to become a travel agent, so if you're looking for a fresh career start, that's totally OK. You have to start somewhere on your path to becoming a travel agent, and the sooner you jump in, the sooner you'll build your client base. On the other hand, if you're hoping to parlay your experience in a semi-related industry, be it marketing or hospitality, that can help because you'll have even more context for your new gig. Either way, this can be a rewarding career path (with some fun perks), so here's what you need to know to become a travel agent.

Formal Training Needed to Become a Travel Agent

While some four-year colleges, community colleges, and trade schools offer tourism certifications, it is not a requirement for those trying to become travel agents. Certificates of tourism can be very helpful, but so can previous training in marketing, hospitality, or even event planning. Ultimately, your knowledge of destinations, sales, itinerary planning, and booking software will be crucial for your career as a travel agent.

In terms of the training time you need to put in before becoming a fully-fledged travel agent, it depends. You could start your career right after high school, or you could put in one to four years to earn a certificate, associate's, or bachelor's degree in tourism. Of course, you could also change course from a related job, and morph your experience as, say, a destination wedding planner into a career as a travel agent.

Training Programs Available

You could take classes with a company like The Travel Institute to earn your certification. Not only will they teach you the basics of planning itineraries, but they'll also make sure you're learning about new cultures, world geography, and experiences you can have all over the world. They'll also help you decide what business route you want to take.

How to Become a Travel Agent: The Logistics

Becoming a travel agent will likely mean starting your own business . On the plus side, it requires relatively little overhead. If you're becoming a small business owner by opening a yoga studio, for example, you will need to rent a space, deal with permits, buy supplies, build a website, and pay yoga teachers and someone to work the front desk. However, if you're starting a travel agent business, you can operate from your living room and there aren't nearly as many upfront costs.

You will have to think about what type of business you want to become. Do you want to incorporate or become an LLC? Would you rather be a sole proprietor? Incorporating takes the most effort, and is often the most expensive. Becoming an LLC is a good happy medium because it can help protect you as a business entity without having as many associated costs. Small business owners typically become an LLC to protect their personal assets. If you get sued as an LLC, someone can come after your business holdings, but can't come after your house, car, or personal savings.

If you choose to remain a sole proprietor (which doesn't require any fees or legwork), you are essentially a freelancer or independent contractor. You can be an LLC and an independent contractor, too — they aren't mutually exclusive. If you want to be an independent contractor, it likely means you're working as part of a larger host agency, which is smart to do when you're starting out as a travel agent. Down the road, you can also own a travel agency franchise. Owning a franchise might come with more overhead costs, and that would be a reason to incorporate.

If you're an independent contractor, you should know that your taxes aren't going to be as straightforward as a full-time employee's might be. You may have to start keeping track of your business expenses, as you might be able to write them off. You also might not get things like health benefits from your employer. As you plan your new career, consider sitting down with an established travel agent to ask them some logistical questions: Where do they get their health insurance? How do they keep track of their income and expenses? Do they use an accountant to do their taxes? While meeting with the travel agent, you can discuss the pros and cons of working for a larger agency, too. If you're not sure how to get in touch with other travel agents, consider using social media, like LinkedIn or even Instagram.

What to Think About When You Become a Travel Agent

Once you've secured work as a travel agent, you'll want to think about how you can earn more money and distinguish yourself from other agents. Here are three things to consider as you start your career.

Making Commissions: If you're working for a larger travel agency as an independent contractor, how do commissions work? Make sure you have this conversation early on before accepting the position. When you're starting out, you want to make sure the commission rate you're receiving is similar to the industry standard.

Growing Your Client Base: How do you make more money as a travel agent? Clients, clients, clients. You want happy customers who will return to you every time they want to book a travel experience. You'll want to keep your clients happy by finding them great deals, curating unbelievable experiences for them, and simply being great to work with.

Establishing a Niche: This is by no means a requirement for becoming a travel agent, but as you establish your career, you may want to consider focusing on a specific niche. For example, perhaps you're someone who focuses on honeymoon travel , luxury travel, or adventure travel . Your niche can help you attract clients, and it can be anything in the travel realm, as long as there's a need for it.

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Raise your hand if you love to travel. Whether you’re often on the road or take a vacation just once a year, you’ve probably heard of travel agents. These folks help plan and book itineraries for you, eliminating a lot of the pain points when it comes to traveling.

These days many people skip out on a travel agent in lieu of booking their trip online, but if you’re a frequent traveler, you may want to become a travel agent yourself. Why? Because it can save you a lot of money — and may even earn you some in the process.

Let’s take a look at how to become a travel agent, why it’s something you may want to consider and the ways it can work for you.

Why become a travel agent?

Have you ever obsessively researched the best hotels in a city you’re planning to visit? How about checking seat maps on an airplane? If getting into the nitty-gritty of travel logistics is something you do in your spare time, you might also enjoy becoming a travel agent.

Not only do you get to plan trips for others, but you’ll also be able to take advantage of special discounts on many facets of travel.

This is true for your clients, but also for yourself. Travel agents have access to a variety of discounted rates on both airlines and hotels, even when booking travel for themselves.

» Learn more: How to get a refund from a travel agency

How to become a travel agent

Find a program.

Becoming a travel agent isn’t as simple as declaring yourself one. Typically, the first step is to sign up for a program that’ll teach you the basics of running your own travel business.

There are a variety of programs to choose from, depending on your interests and career goals. Most programs will teach you about the business side of being a travel agent as well as how to plan trips, so your courses in itinerary planning and travel insurance will be coupled with business ethics and customer service.

If you’re wondering how to become a travel agent from home, don’t worry. Many of these courses don’t have to be done in person; there are online programs that will teach you everything you need to know from the comfort of your living room.

Apply for certification

Once you’ve completed your coursework, you’ll want to apply for certification. Although there is no single standard that designates you a travel agent, there are a number of different identifiers that you can acquire. Some of the more common ones are:

International Air Transport Association, or IATA, which allows you to book travel on domestic and international airlines.

Travel Industry Designator Service, or TIDS, which allows agents to book trips with a variety of travel suppliers and receive commissions.

Cruise Lines International Association, or CLIA, which provides agents the ability to book trips on cruises around the world.

In order to access Marriott’s travel advisor rates, for example, you can use any three of these designations, along with a variety of others.

Each of these associations and identifiers have different implications for your business, so you’ll want to be sure you’ve fully researched them before applying for membership.

» Learn more: Do travel agents really save you money?

Save money as a travel agent

Once you’ve qualified as a travel agent, what comes next? If you travel frequently, becoming a travel agent can be a huge benefit to you, as it offers discounted rates and access to luxury travel options.

Discounted rates

Travel agents have access to negotiated rates that aren’t available to the general public. The exact amount will vary depending on the business. Hilton, for example, will give personal travel discounts of 50% off at newly-opened hotels and up to 25% off at the remainder of hotels within Hilton’s portfolio.

Hyatt, meanwhile, will give you a discount on personal travel of up to 50%, but only during select dates of the year. And although not all airlines give discounts to travel agents, many do.

Regardless, these are some pretty spectacular savings, and if you’re looking to save money on your vacations, being a travel agent can help.

Luxury programs

Becoming a travel agent isn’t only about saving money, however. It also grants you access to many hotel chains’ luxury travel programs.

If you’re big into elite status benefits, this is definitely something you’ll want to consider — especially since you don’t need any status at all to receive these perks, as long as you book through the hotel’s agent portal.

Most major hotel chains have these programs, including Hyatt Privé, Hilton Impresario, Marriott STARS & Luminous, Four Seasons Preferred Partner, Belmond Bellini Club, Rosewood Elite, Mandarin Oriental Fan Club and Shangri-La Luxury Circle.

While benefits vary by brand, many of these offers include things like room upgrades, complimentary breakfast, early check-in or late checkout and credits for expenses like dining or spa services. General consumers aren’t eligible for these programs, but once you’ve become a registered travel agent, they become accessible to you; however, some programs — such as Hyatt Privé — are invitation only.

For the most part, booking rooms through these programs shouldn’t cost more than the standard rate you’d be paying anyway, so you have the potential to get big benefits without shelling out any additional money.

However, note that these numbers don’t take into account any other discounted rates for which you may be eligible, such as those offered to American Automobile Association members and veterans .

» Learn more: Uncommon tips for saving money on travel

Earn money as a travel agent

Of course, becoming a travel agent isn’t all about scoring discounts for yourself. If you’re looking to earn some money, being a travel agent can be a good way to do so.

Note that travel agents operate in a customer-facing role, so you’ll also need to be able to build client relationships and be comfortable with sales. Courses such as those mentioned above can help train you to do this and run a successful business.

If booking travel and organizing trips for others is something that appeals to you, there’s definitely money to be earned. Marriott, for example, gives agents a commission of between 8% and 10% for all eligible stays booked.

» Learn more: The pros and cons of booking through online travel agencies

If you’d like to become a travel agent

There are a few good reasons to become a travel agent, especially if you travel a lot. Although it takes time and effort to complete training and apply for accreditation, the benefits you’ll receive as a travel advisor can be significant. This is true whether you’re booking personal travel or have built yourself a client base. Either way, there’s money to be had — and saved.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

Chase Sapphire Preferred Credit Card

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1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

60,000 Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $750 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

Chase Freedom Unlimited Credit Card

1.5%-6.5% Enjoy 6.5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel; 4.5% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and 3% on all other purchases (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year). After your first year or $20,000 spent, enjoy 5% cash back on travel purchased through Chase Travel, 3% cash back on drugstore purchases and dining at restaurants, including takeout and eligible delivery service, and unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases.

$300 Earn an additional 1.5% cash back on everything you buy (on up to $20,000 spent in the first year) - worth up to $300 cash back!

Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

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2x-5x Earn unlimited 2X miles on every purchase, every day. Earn 5X miles on hotels and rental cars booked through Capital One Travel, where you'll get Capital One's best prices on thousands of trip options.

75,000 Enjoy a one-time bonus of 75,000 miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within 3 months from account opening, equal to $750 in travel.

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How to Become a Travel Agent

Learn what it takes to become a Travel Agent in 2024, and how to start your journey.

  • What is a Travel Agent
  • How to Become
  • Certifications
  • Tools & Software
  • LinkedIn Guide
  • Interview Questions
  • Work-Life Balance
  • Professional Goals
  • Resume Examples
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How do I become a Travel Agent?

Gain relevant education, develop essential travel agent skills, gain practical experience in the travel industry, build your professional network, create a portfolio of your travel planning, stay informed and continue learning, typical requirements to become a travel agent, educational requirements and academic pathways, building experience in the travel industry, key skills for aspiring travel agents, additional qualifications for a competitive edge, alternative ways to start a travel agent career, building on hospitality or customer service experience, utilizing language skills and cultural knowledge, transitioning from a different sector, embracing digital nomadism and travel blogging, education and specialized training, how to break into the industry as a travel agent - next steps, faqs about becoming a travel agent, how long does it take to become a travel agent, do you need a degree to become a travel agent, can i become a travel agent with no experience.

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Start your journey to an exciting career: how to become a travel consultant

Start your journey to an exciting career: how to become a travel consultant

From arranging flights and accommodations to recommending destinations and activities, travel consultants offer valuable expertise and personalized service to meet the diverse needs and preferences of travelers. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the steps and strategies around how to embark on a rewarding career as a travel consultant, from gaining relevant education and experience to honing essential skills and securing employment opportunities in the dynamic and exciting world of travel. 

Whether you’re passionate about exploring new destinations, helping others create unforgettable memories or thriving in a fast-paced and customer-centric environment, becoming a travel consultant offers endless opportunities for adventure, growth and fulfillment in the travel industry.

What does a travel consultant do?

A travel consultant, also known as a travel agent or travel advisor, plays a multifaceted role in the travel industry, assisting clients with planning and booking various travel arrangements. Below is an overview of the key responsibilities and tasks typically performed by travel consultants:

  • Client consultation: travel consultants begin by conducting thorough consultations with clients to understand their travel preferences, needs and budget constraints
  • Itinerary planning: based on the client’s preferences and requirements, travel consultants use their expertise and knowledge of destinations to create customized travel itineraries. They recommend destinations, attractions, activities and experiences that align with the client’s interests
  • Travel booking: agents help with all aspects of travel booking, including flights, accommodations, transportation (such as rental cars or transfers), tours, activities, travel insurance and any other travel-related services
  • Providing destination information: travel consultants offer expert advice and information about destinations, including local customs, culture, attractions, safety considerations, visa requirements, weather conditions and travel advisories
  • Handling travel logistics: advisors handle all logistical aspects of travel planning, such as coordinating flight schedules, confirming hotel reservations, arranging airport transfers and managing travel documents.
  • Customer service and support: throughout the travel process, travel consultants provide ongoing support and assistance to clients, addressing any questions, concerns or issues that may arise

Skills needed to be a travel consultant

Being a successful travel consultant requires a diverse set of skills and qualities to effectively meet the needs and preferences of clients while navigating the complexities of the travel industry. Most of these are soft skills which can be used in almost any field, but industry-specific knowledge is needed as well. Below are the key skills and attributes needed to excel in the role of a travel consultant:

  • Destination knowledge: travel consultants must have in-depth knowledge of various destinations, including popular tourist attractions, local customs, culture, cuisine, transportation options and travel regulations. They should stay updated on travel trends, emerging destinations and changes in visa requirements or travel advisories
  • Customer service excellence: exceptional customer service skills are essential for travel consultants to build rapport with clients, understand their needs and exceed their expectations. They should be friendly, approachable and attentive, providing personalized assistance and support to clients throughout the travel planning and booking process
  • Communication skills: consultants need to convey information clearly, listen actively to clients’ needs and preferences and negotiate with travel suppliers. They should be able to communicate confidently and professionally through various channels, including phone, email and in-person consultations
  • Attention to detail: this is essential for travel consultants to ensure accuracy in booking travel arrangements, including flights, accommodations and transportation. They should carefully review booking details, confirmations and travel documents to minimize errors and avoid disruptions during the client’s trip
  • Problem-solving abilities: travel consultants should be adept at problem solving and decision making to address unexpected issues or challenges that may arise before, during or after the client’s trip. They should remain calm under pressure, think creatively and find solutions quickly to resolve any travel-related problems or concerns
  • Organization and time management: it is important to be able to juggle multiple client inquiries, bookings and administrative tasks efficiently. Travel advisors need to prioritize tasks, meet deadlines and maintain accurate records to ensure smooth operations and client satisfaction

Education and training

If you want to get the right skills and knowledge needed to succeed as a travel advisor, there are plenty of training and educational options, including:

  • Degree programs: various academic institutions offer degree programs in hospitality management, tourism, travel and tourism management or business administration with a focus on travel and tourism. These provide comprehensive training in areas such as destination knowledge, customer service, sales, marketing and travel industry operations. A bachelor’s degree is typically preferred by employers for management roles, although associate degrees or diplomas may also be sufficient for entry-level positions
  • On-the-job training: some travel agencies and tour operators provide on-the-job training for newly hired travel consultants. Through hands-on experience and mentorship from experienced professionals, trainees learn essential skills such as booking travel arrangements, using reservation systems, interacting with clients and navigating industry regulations
  • Apprenticeships: a number of larger travel companies offer formal apprenticeship programs for individuals interested in pursuing a career as a travel consultant. These typically combine classroom instruction with practical training, allowing apprentices to gain valuable experience while earning a salary. Apprenticeships provide a structured pathway to entry-level positions and may lead to permanent employment upon completion

With industry-leading tutors and great internship options, a degree at Les Roches can help you begin your journey towards becoming a travel consultant

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Gaining relevant experience

Becoming familiar with the role through hands-on experience is crucial for aspiring travel consultants if they are to prepare for the demands of the industry and showcase their skills to potential employers. From entry-level positions to internships and volunteer opportunities, acquiring hands-on experience lays the foundation for a successful career in travel consultancy.

Entry level positions

Working in one of the following entry level positions can help you get experience within the field:

  • Travel agent assistant: positions such as travel agent assistant or travel coordinator provide valuable hands-on experience in the day-to-day operations of a travel agency or tour operator. Responsibilities may include assisting senior travel consultants with booking travel arrangements, managing client inquiries and maintaining booking records
  • Reservation agent: these agents work for airlines, hotels, rental car companies and other travel suppliers, handling customer inquiries, processing reservations and ensuring smooth travel experiences for clients. This role provides exposure to reservation systems, customer service techniques and industry-specific procedures

Internships and volunteer opportunities

It’s also possible to gain experience through internships and volunteering. Interning at a travel agency or tour operator allows aspiring travel consultants to gain practical experience and exposure to various aspects of the travel industry. Interns may assist with itinerary planning, customer service, sales support and administrative tasks under the guidance of experienced professionals. Some degree courses will offer you internships in management roles as part of your course.

Volunteering for organizations or events related to travel and tourism can also provide valuable experience and networking opportunities. For example, volunteering at travel expos, tourist boards or destination marketing organizations allows individuals to learn about different destinations, interact with travelers and develop customer service skills.

Advancing your career

Advancing your career

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There are various options you can consider for advancing your career in travel consultancy. This could be through working your way up to more senior roles or through gaining more qualifications and training.

Types of advancement for travel consultants

As a travel consultant gains experience and expertise, they can seek opportunities for vertical advancement within their current organization. This may involve taking on leadership roles, such as team lead or manager, overseeing a specific department or area of specialization or advancing to higher-level positions with increased responsibilities and compensation.

Travel consultants can also advance their careers by specializing in specific niches or areas of the travel industry. This could include focusing on luxury travel management , corporate travel, group travel, destination weddings, adventure travel or niche markets such as eco-tourism or culinary tourism. By specializing, travel consultants can develop in-depth knowledge and expertise in their chosen field, attract a loyal client base and command higher fees for their specialized services.

Continuing education and professional certifications

To advance their skills, agents can pursue advanced training programs, workshops or seminars in areas such as destinations, sales techniques, customer service excellence and industry trends. Many professional organizations and industry associations offer specialized training programs designed specifically for travel professionals.

Obtaining advanced professional certifications can boost credibility and demonstrate expertise in specific areas of travel consultancy. These could be certificates from travel industry organizations or master’s degrees to help boost your knowledge and employability.

Our master’s degrees help you develop expert skills and gain hands-on experience so you can advance in travel consultancy

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Building a reputation and client base

Being known as a trusted and reliable travel consultant requires consistently delivering exceptional service and exceeding client expectations. By providing personalized attention, expert advice and seamless travel experiences, travel consultants can earn positive reviews, referrals and repeat business from satisfied clients.

Successful travel consultants can also build a loyal client base by cultivating strong relationships with clients and maintaining regular communication. By staying in touch with clients, providing updates on travel deals and promotions and offering personalized recommendations based on their preferences, travel consultants can nurture long-term relationships and earn customers’ trust and loyalty .

Using technology and digital marketing strategies can help travel consultants expand their reach and attract new clients too. Building a professional website, maintaining active social media profiles and leveraging email marketing campaigns can help travel consultants showcase their expertise, promote their services and attract potential clients.

Becoming a travel consultant offers a pathway to a fulfilling and rewarding career in the vibrant travel industry. Through a combination of education, training, experience, and dedication, aspiring travel consultants can develop the skills and expertise needed to excel in their roles, provide exceptional service to clients and advance their careers over time. 

By following the strategies outlined in this guide, you can start on the path toward becoming a trusted travel advisor, creating memorable travel experiences and making a positive impact in the lives of your clients. With a passion for travel, perseverance and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement, the possibilities for success in the world of travel consultancy are limitless. If you want to get started in this exciting career, you should consider getting a hospitality degree from a respected school such as Les Roches. Or, if you are still undecided, take a look at other hospitality careers that you could consider with a business degree .

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Chanin Nont/ Moment Via Getty Images

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How to Become a Travel Consultant

Last Updated: March 17, 2023 Approved

This article was co-authored by Greg Guiteras . Greg Guiteras is the CEO of Lorraine Travel, LLC, one of the largest privately-owned travel management companies in Florida founded in 1948. With over 34 years of experience, Greg's specialties are in corporate travel management, sales and marketing, contract negotiations, strategic partnerships, and luxury hotel sales. Greg holds a BS in Marketing from Florida State University. Greg has also created WhataHotel!, a website offering exclusive perks on hotel bookings, and CabinMate, an app that matches single cruise travelers with potential cabin matches "in the same boat" to avoid traveling solo on a cruise. There are 11 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. wikiHow marks an article as reader-approved once it receives enough positive feedback. In this case, 100% of readers who voted found the article helpful, earning it our reader-approved status. This article has been viewed 176,080 times.

These days, many people book flights, hotels, cruises, and excursions online without anyone’s guidance. But that doesn’t mean travel consultants aren’t still important, or that they can’t still make a living in the travel industry. Through a combination of proper education, relevant skills, and related work experience, you can become a travel agent with invaluable expertise and advice for the modern traveler.

Educating Yourself

Step 1 Obtain your high school diploma or equivalent.

  • If you’re still in high school, begin or continue taking courses in a foreign language. Also consider business, computer, or communication courses if your school offers them.

Step 2 Attend a 2-year or 4-year college.

  • Look up a list of programs endorsed by the American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA) or the International Association of Travel Agents Network (IATAN). [6] X Research source

Developing the Necessary Skills

Step 1 Travel as much as possible.

  • Practice active listening by repeating what someone says in your own words. This shows them you’re engaged in the conversation.
  • Create positive interactions by smiling when greeting others, offering them your assistance, and showing you care with a simple, “How are you today?”

Getting Job Experience

Step 1 Work in a related field.

  • You'll still have to do all your own marketing to drive traffic to your independent website, but you can avoid all the hard work of setting up a brand new business. [9] X Research source
  • Visit an impartial site, like HostAgencyReviews.com to compare host agencies and learn more about different ones. [10] X Research source

Step 3 Specialize your services.

  • Other niche travel markets include community service, seniors, singles, families, women only, pets, disabled, and honeymoons. [11] X Research source

Step 4 Design a website.

  • Write articles for your site, get a newsletter started, pay for ads online, and spread news of your new business across social media.
  • It may be worthwhile to take an online course in internet marketing if you’re unfamiliar with it.

Step 5 Start your own travel company.

  • Some of the necessary paperwork includes your business license, proof of liability insurance, tax documents, and a letter of recommendation from a former employer.
  • Each country has their own national certification boards for travel agencies, so visit the IATA website for your country’s requirements.

Community Q&A

Community Answer

  • Be aware that a travel consultant is both a travel expert and a salesperson. The consultant is responsible for listening to preferences, suggesting destinations, easing a traveler's concerns and closing the sale in order to make a profit. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0
  • After receiving your IATA or ASTA card, you may be eligible for specials and discounts on flights, rental cars, hotels, and more. Use these discounts for your personal travel, as it will only enhance your expertise. Thanks Helpful 0 Not Helpful 0

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Make Blueprints

  • ↑ http://study.com/articles/How_to_get_a_GED_a_Step-by-Step_Process_to_Earn_a_GED.html
  • ↑ http://learn.org/articles/What_Degree_is_Required_to_Become_a_Travel_Agent.html
  • ↑ https://www.hcareers.com/article/career-advice/becoming-an-independent-travel-agent
  • ↑ http://learn.org/articles/What_is_the_Course_Curriculum_of_an_Online_Travel_Agent_Certificate_Program.html
  • ↑ https://www.asta.org/Education/travelschool.cfm?navItemNumber=11328
  • ↑ https://trainingmag.com/how-improve-interpersonal-skills
  • ↑ http://www.findahosttravelagency.com/the-benefits-of-working-with-a-host-agency
  • ↑ http://www.travelweekly.com/Travel-News/Travel-Agent-Issues/Insights/Site-helps-agents-sort-through-host-agency-options
  • ↑ https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/202350
  • ↑ https://www.entrepreneur.com/article/190464
  • ↑ http://www.iata.org/services/accreditation/accreditation-travel/Pages/application.aspx

About This Article

Greg Guiteras

To become a travel consultant, start by getting your high school diploma or GED, then attending a 2 or 4 year college for a degree in business, hospitality, or a foreign language. You can also sign up for a travel agent certificate program, which typically takes 2-6 months to complete. In addition to school, you’ll also want to develop other necessary skills, such as traveling as much as possible and practicing your interpersonal skills. Finally, get a job in hospitality, sales, or customer service to further your skill set. To learn how to specialize your services as a travel consultant, keep reading! Did this summary help you? Yes No

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THE JOURNAL

Travel Advisor Resources

How to Become a Travel Agent: All Your Questions, Answered

Fora Author Fora Travel

The Modern Travel Agency

Fora Travel

https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/how-to-become-a-travel-agent-all-your-questions-answered

required travel consultant

Are you the go-to person for travel tips? Do you have lists of restaurant recs for your favorite cities? Obsessed with hotels and resorts? Or maybe you're looking to score epic hotel perks for your friends and family?

Narrator’s voice: If you answered yes to any of these questions...

If you have a passion for travel, a career path to becoming a travel agent is closer than you think. First, we answer some FAQs on  booking travel, travel agencies and the travel industry, then walk you through how to become a travel agent, step by step.

Ready to take the first step? Become a travel advisor today.

Let’s back up. What exactly does a travel agent do?

Travel agents sell, curate and book travel. What kinds of bookings do Fora Advisors do , exactly? All sorts, from booking a cruise line or a hotel room to planning a multi-country journey that includes transfers, tours and unique experiences (and everything in between).

As a travel consultant, travel agents work with clients to tailor travel arrangements based on budget, taste and vacation vibe, and communicate with hotels to ensure each trip goes off without a hitch. And when it comes to getting paid as a travel agent, hotels and other travel providers pay advisors a commission on anything they book, at no additional cost to the traveler. For more intel, check out our post: what is a travel agent?

What are the qualifications to become a travel agent?

required travel consultant

Good news! There are no exams, accreditations or other hoops to jump through to start booking travel as a career path. Nor is a travel agent certification (or formal training, or experience at a travel agency) required. Anyone with a passion for travel, a problem-solving attitude and a little spare time can succeed as a travel agent. Solid people skills don’t hurt either!

Eager to learn more? Download our guide on how to turn your passion for travel into $$$ .

What are the benefits of being a travel agent?

Beyond talking about gorgeous destinations and cool hotels all day (hey, the topic could be worse), there are also tons of travel industry perks, like trips to develop your travel experience (called ‘FAM’ trips ), plus in-person networking events and hotel site visits.

Plus, you can hook your clients up with amazing perks and upgrades when they travel, becoming the go-to ‘friend with hotel benefits’ (see what we did there…). As a travel agent with Fora, for instance, you’ll have access to best-of-the-best partner programs , with perks at over 4,500 hotels around the world (more on that below). Say hello to room upgrades, complimentary breakfasts, resort and spa credits for your clients.

Learn more about our partners .

How do I get started as a travel agent?

Step 1: find a host agency that gets you.

If you’re interested in becoming a travel agent, you’ll need to choose a host agency. Travel agents work with a travel agency, referred to as a host agency, that handles commissions and other logistics. A host agency like Fora acts as an umbrella organization, providing resources to travel agents, including access to booking systems & partner programs, marketing support and training. (And, in many cases, a host agency provides you with an IATA number, allowing you to earn commission.) Plus, host agencies give independent travel professionals leverage with suppliers, gaining better commission rates and overall credibility within the travel market. Why choose Fora as your host agency? As a modern host agency, we’re upgrading the travel industry by building tech tools to help you jumpstart your travel business. We’ll get you onboarded and teach you the ropes with training programs galore (more on that below). And when it comes to booking travel, our global community of experienced travel agents will help you get that first booking — and be on call for all the support you need. Learn more about what you get as a Fora Advisor .

Plus, unlike other travel agencies, we don’t require a hefty training fee, minimum number of bookings or quotas. Being a Fora Advisor is flexible, meaning you determine your own schedule and work as much or as little as you'd like. Ready to take the first step? Become a travel advisor today.

Step 2: Learn the ropes & get certified

As an independent travel agent with Fora, we’ll set you up with everything you need to become a successful travel agent, including a best-in-class training program developed by industry experts. 

You’ll hit the ground running — you can book hotels from day one — and get trained up with fellow advisors as part of Fora’s travel agent training . Advisors attend weekly live training sessions, receive 1:1 mentorship from industry leaders and get ‘Fora Certified’ to sell travel. (Fora certification isn’t required, but offered to equip you with all the knowledge you might need).

And it doesn’t stop there. We offer tons of formal (yet flexible) training so you can continue to boost your know-how, including partner webinars, tips on building your client base and tutorials on itinerary planning. 

Step 3: Market yourself

required travel consultant

Once you are officially a travel agent with Fora, you’ll be off to the races to boost your client base. To do so, we offer tons of resources for our independent contractors, including a dedicated profile page on Fora’s website and your own fora.travel email address. 

Thanks to our easy-to-follow marketing plan, you have all the resources to market yourself from Day One. Post on social media, send an email blast, ask your friends if they’re planning a trip — there are tons of ways to get the word out. Learn more about how to market yourself as a travel agent .

Step 4: Find your first client

As a travel advisor with Fora, you’ll get the tools, tech and marketing support to help you build your client base. First, we recommend planning trips for your personal network — your first clients can totally be your friends and family. 

Next, word of mouth will be your best friend. After a client returns from a trip, ask them to spread the word. Next, leverage content creation tools to make yourself more visible. And finally, take advantage of Fora’s Client Lead Program (learn more about our game-changing client lead program for advisors ). Learn more about how to get clients as a travel agent .

Step 5: Book your first trip

required travel consultant

Time to make the magic happen! And by magic, we mean booking hotels — not to mention itinerary planning & unlocking epic perks, of course.

As a Fora Advisor, you make money by booking hotels — but there’s tons more that goes into it. Your services can range from simply booking a hotel room to planning a multi-country vacation. And Fora Advisors have tons of tools at their fingertips to plan trips. Start by researching your destination and getting intel from fellow travel advisors on our community app, Forum, then make your first booking — and compare rates and perks in real time — with our integrated booking platform . Our most game-changing tool yet, our integrated booking platform is an all-in-one tool for advisors to browse, quote & book hotels directly from their Fora Advisor Portal.  

Step 6: Rinse & repeat — always on your own schedule

One of the best parts of being a travel agent? Being a Fora Advisor provides tons of flexibility, because we allow you to choose your pace, niche & schedule. And thanks to our booking platform, you can work from anywhere. 

Planning travel can be a side hustle to bring in some extra earnings. Or, you might also decide to transition into a full-time travel career with a larger client base as you build your own business. Fora doesn’t place quotas on bookings or earnings, either. Our objective is to teach you and support you when you need it. Beyond that, you’re free to choose the types of bookings you make, how often and when. 

Step 7: Get paid

required travel consultant

As a Fora Advisor, you’re eligible to earn commissions on most 3-star or higher hotels, along with other travel suppliers like villa companies or DMCs (tour operators). 

And the best part? If you book travel with Fora as your host agency, thanks to Fora’s integrated booking platform, we handle every aspect of getting you paid (and paid fast). You’ll receive your commission upon the completion of your client’s trip. Learn more about how travel agents get paid. Convinced? Sign up to take the first steps today to . Or, read on for more FAQS on how to become a travel agent.

Can I still become a travel agent if I’m not a travel expert?

Our community is made up of people who are passionate about travel. Beyond passion, travel experience and destination knowledge of any kind — be it the best beach resort in Florida, the top hotel in California or your preferred cruise line — is valuable. However, to become a travel agent, you don’t have to be an expert (i.e., know everything about everywhere). That's where our community comes in. 

At Fora, our advisors get exclusive access to our community app to connect with a network of travel experts. Planning a honeymoon to Japan? A family reunion in Hawaii? A girls trip to Greece? Your fellow travel advisors will be your biggest asset in travel planning — which is why you should choose your host agency wisely. Collective intelligence is a beautiful thing.

Learn more about our community app, Forum .

Define “best-of-the-best partner programs": what brands has Fora partnered with?

required travel consultant

We really do mean “best-of-the-best.” From to Hyatt Privé , Fora has partnered with dozens of reputable brands and groups — from boutique hotels in Europe to epic Disney resorts. And we’re not just in the hotel sphere. Our list of preferred partners has grown to include popular cruise lines like Virgin Voyages and Viking, along with on-the-ground experiences like Project Expedition and more. 

Plus, Fora is constantly seeking new partnerships our travel agents can benefit from, so their clients get the most out of their vacations.

How much do travel agents make?

Much like other sales positions, as a seller of travel, travel agents get paid in commissions. Your paycheck depends on how much, and what type of travel, you’re booking. (Learn more in our post on how travel agents get paid .)

For instance, if you book a family cruise in the tens of thousands of dollars, your commission will be substantial. You could also get the same commission by handling hotel bookings at a lower price, but at a higher amount. (TLDR: In general, suppliers commonly pay 10% commission, which is split between you and your host agency).

Check out our guide on how much travel agents make per booking .

Why should I choose Fora as my host agency?

Fora's Head of Travel Operations Leslie Overton coaches advisors at Live Forum 2023

From our inclusive global community to our super-fast commissions (looking at you, other travel agencies), there are tons of reasons to choose Fora as your host agency. 

From Day One, Fora Advisors benefits from A+ support and training, convenient tools and an all-are-welcome ethos. Because we get it: this is uncharted territory for many. Learn more about what you get as a Fora Advisor .

Want to know how to become a travel agent? Here’s the bottom line...

There is a lot to love about being a travel advisor, but one of our favorite parts is that it’s easier than ever to become one. As a Fora Advisor, you get all the support, training and community you need, at a host agency reimagining the industry.

Ready to start your own business? Take the first steps to become a travel advisor today.

Looking for more intel on how to become a travel agent?

Read our other articles on becoming a travel agent:

How to Become a Travel Agent from Home

How to Become an Independent Travel Agent

How to Become a Disney Travel Agent

How to Become a Luxury Travel Agent

Are you the go-to person for travel tips?

Transform your passion for travel into your dream job. We'll set you up with everything you need to succeed as a travel advisor. From training to top-notch tech, marketing assets, community, commission tracking & payments (and more), we've got you.

  • • Orchestrated high-end travel experiences tailored to affluent client specifications, managing over 100 luxury itineraries annually with meticulous attention to detail.
  • • Increased customer satisfaction rate by 25% through personalized service and proactive issue resolution, enhancing client loyalty and retention.
  • • Spearheaded the integration of GDS technologies, resulting in a 30% reduction in booking times and a more streamlined reservation process.
  • • Negotiated exclusive deals with premium vendors, securing on average 15% better rates for our clients compared to standard industry offerings.
  • • Cultivated a strong personal brand as a luxury travel advisor, contributing to a 20% year-over-year revenue growth for the company.
  • • Led a successful digital marketing campaign that generated a 40% increase in new business, leveraging social media and industry networking events.
  • • Managed a portfolio of 80+ high-net-worth clients, delivering bespoke international travel packages.
  • • Pioneered the adoption of Virtuoso network partnerships, amplifying luxury service offerings by connecting with top-tier travel advisors and suppliers.
  • • Executed targeted outreach programs that expanded repeat business by 35% within one fiscal year.
  • • Curated exclusive travel content for company platforms, contributing to a 50% boost in online engagement.
  • • Coordinated with cross-functional teams to optimize customer service protocols, refining the end-to-end client journey.
  • • Designed personalized travel experiences for a diverse clientele, exceeding sales targets by 20% each quarter.
  • • Deployed expert knowledge of GDS systems to enhance booking efficiency and accuracy.
  • • Facilitated seamless travel experiences by providing round-the-clock support to clients during their journeys.
  • • Established key partnerships with local tour operators, creating unique destination activities.

Travel Consultant Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

Your travel consultant resume must highlight your extensive knowledge of global destinations. Showcase your proficiency in creating tailored itineraries that align with clients' preferences. It's imperative to demonstrate your adeptness in leveraging travel software and online booking systems. Ensure your resume reflects your strong communication skills and your ability to deliver exceptional customer service.

All resume examples in this guide

required travel consultant

Traditional

required travel consultant

Resume Guide

Resume Format Tips

Resume Experience

Skills on Resume

Education & Certifications

Resume Summary Tips

Additional Resume Sections

Key Takeaways

Travel Consultant resume example

As a travel consultant, articulating the breadth of your destination knowledge and customer service skills in a concise resume can be challenging. Our guide provides tailored strategies to help you effectively showcase your expertise and experiences in a compelling manner, ensuring potential employers recognize your value in the travel industry.

  • Which sections do you need to include in your resume to meet recruiters' requirements;
  • How to write your travel consultant resume experience section - even if you have don't have little to no work experience;
  • Real-life professional examples to guide you how to write the most important travel consultant resume sections;
  • Adding even more sections so your travel consultant resume stands out with professionalism and your personality.

We've also selected some of the best (and most relevant) resume guides for the travel consultant role you're applying for:

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How to style your travel consultant resume: layout and format

  • Reverse-chronological resume format to highlight your experience;
  • Functional skill-based resume format if you have less experience and want to focus on skills;
  • Hybrid resume format to guide recruiters through both your experience and skills.
  • Make sure your headline is simple and includes the job you're applying for or your current role, an abbreviation of a certificate you have, or even your professional area of interest;
  • Always tailor your travel consultant resume to the role you're applying for by matching job requirements to your experience via different resume sections;
  • Once you've created your resume, download it in PDF (unless otherwise specified). This is to ensure readability and that the layout remains fixed.

Upload & Check Your Resume

Drop your resume here or choose a file . PDF & DOCX only. Max 2MB file size.

The more time and effort you've put into obtaining the relevant certificate, the closer to the top it should be listed. This is especially important for more senior roles and if the company you're applying for is more forward-facing.

Traditional sections, appreciated by recruiters, for your travel consultant resume:

  • Clear and concise header with relevant links and contact details
  • Summary or objective with precise snapshot of our career highlights and why you're a suitable candidate for the travel consultant role
  • Experience that goes into the nuts and bolts of your professional qualifications and success
  • Skills section(-s) for more in-depth talent-alignment between job keywords and your own profile
  • Education and certifications sections to further show your commitment for growth in the specific niche

What recruiters want to see on your resume:

  • Extensive knowledge of travel software and reservation systems (such as Amadeus, Sabre, or Travelport)
  • Proven track record in creating customized travel itineraries and experience in travel logistics
  • Excellent customer service skills and ability to build rapport with clients to understand their travel needs
  • Strong destination knowledge and familiarity with visa and passport regulations
  • Ability to multitask and handle travel emergencies or changes with efficiency and composure

What to include in the experience section of your travel consultant resume

The resume experience section is perhaps the most important element in your application as it needs to showcase how your current profile matches the job.

While it may take some time to perfect your travel consultant experience section, here are five tips to keep in mind when writing yours:

  • Assess the advert to make a list of key requirements and look back on how each of your past jobs answers those;
  • Don't just showcase you know a particular skill, instead, you need proof in the form of tangible results (e.g. numbers, percent, etc.);
  • It's perfectly fine to leave off experience items that don't bring anything extra to your skill set or application;
  • Recruiters want to understand what the particular value is of working with you, so instead of solely featuring technologies, think about including at least one bullet that's focused on your soft skills;
  • Take care with wording each bullet to demonstrate what you've achieved, using a particular skill, and an action verb.

The below travel consultant resume examples can help guide you to curate your professional experience, following industry-leading tips and advice.

  • Crafted unique travel itineraries for over 300 high-net-worth clients, prioritizing exclusive experiences and upscale accommodations, leading to a 40% increase in company revenue from repeat business.
  • Negotiated with over 150 vendors and service providers to secure the best possible pricing and amenities for clients, improving customer satisfaction ratings by 25%.
  • Implemented an innovative customer feedback system that enhanced the quality of service delivery by pinpointing areas of improvement, which boosted overall client retention by 20%.
  • Managed travel arrangements for over 50 corporate accounts, ensuring compliance with each company’s travel policy and budget constraints, resulting in a 95% client satisfaction score.
  • Led a project to transition to a new travel booking software, increasing operational efficiency by 30% and reducing booking errors by 15%.
  • Cultivated strategic partnerships with airlines and hotels to provide exclusive corporate rates, which cut travel expenses for client companies by an average of 20%.
  • Developed and executed marketing campaigns targeting niche travel sectors, ultimately increasing year-over-year sales by 35%.
  • Designed and hosted 10 exclusive travel webinars, attracting an average of 200 attendees per session, enhancing brand awareness and client engagement.
  • Orchestrated the logistics for multi-destination packages, coordinating with local tour operators and managing intricate schedules for groups of up to 100 travelers.
  • Pioneered the adoption of a virtual reality platform for destination previews, which led to a 50% uptick in bookings due to improved client confidence in their travel choices.
  • Streamlined the online consultation process via video conferencing tools, effectively handling an average of 30 client sessions per week, enhancing operational efficiency.
  • Launched personalized travel apps for over 1,000 clients, which increased engagement by providing real-time updates and travel assistance, thereby elevating the overall service experience.
  • Specialized in creating adventure travel experiences, resulting in a 200% growth in adventure package sales within the first year of program inception.
  • Collaborated with conservation groups to develop eco-friendly travel experiences, bolstering the company's reputation for responsible tourism.
  • Organized and successfully led 20 group adventure expeditions, maintaining a perfect safety record and achieving a 98% customer satisfaction rating.
  • Masterminded international travel plans for over 500 clients, emphasizing cultural immersion and authentic local experiences, leading to a 75% increase in repeat booking rates.
  • Liaised with foreign consulates and embassies to navigate visa processes, reducing application times by 40% for clients, thus streamlining their pre-travel arrangements.
  • Spearheaded the international travel training program for new hires, enhancing the team's skills and knowledge, which translated into a 50% faster booking turnaround.
  • Curated over 200 bespoke historical tours for culturally enriching experiences, which increased client engagement and drove a 65% rise in educational travel sales.
  • Conducted comprehensive research to ensure the historical accuracy of all tour content, thereby reinforcing the company's reputation for well-informed and educational travel services.
  • Partnered with history enthusiasts' communities to co-create exclusive content, expanding the tour offerings and achieving a 40% increase in customer loyalty within the history tourism niche.
  • Provided bespoke travel planning services for a portfolio of 200 elite clients, focusing on discretion and superior service, which led to a 90% client retention rate.
  • Orchestrated private jet charters, yacht rentals, and exclusive event access for high-profile clients, meeting the demands for privacy and luxury that defines elite travel.
  • Devised risk assessment protocols for VIP travel plans, ensuring safety and rapid response to any unforeseen events, greatly appreciated by clients for the added peace of mind.

Quantifying impact on your resume

  • Detail the number of travel packages sold per quarter to showcase sales proficiency and consistent performance.
  • Highlight the percentage increase in customer retention to demonstrate strong client relationships and satisfaction.
  • Mention the specific revenue generated for the company from your sales to underline your direct impact on the business’s bottom line.
  • Include the number of new destinations added to the portfolio, reflecting your contribution to the company’s growth and diversity.
  • Specify the number of clients served annually to show the scale of your ability to manage and satisfy a large customer base.
  • Present the average customer satisfaction rating to provide evidence of high-quality service and positive client experiences.
  • Enumerate the reductions in operational costs due to efficient planning, indicating your ability to improve profitability.
  • List the number of travel industry partners you've networked with, highlighting your role in expanding the business's reach and partnerships.

Action verbs for your travel consultant resume

Target Illustration

No experience, no problem: writing your travel consultant resume

You're quite set on the travel consultant role of your dreams and think your application may add further value to your potential employers. Yet, you have no work experience . Here's how you can curate your resume to substitute your lack of experience:

  • Don't list every single role you've had so far, but focus on ones that would align with the job you're applying for
  • Include any valid experience in the field - whether it's at research or intern level
  • Highlight the soft skills you'd bring about - those personality traits that have an added value to your application
  • Focus on your education and certifications, if they make sense for the role.

Recommended reads:

  • How To Include Your Relevant Coursework On A Resume
  • When You Should (And Not) Add Dean's List On Your Resume

If you happen to have some basic certificates, don't invest too much of your travel consultant resume real estate in them. Instead, list them within the skills section or as part of your relevant experience. This way you'd ensure you meet all job requirements while dedicating your certificates to only the most in-demand certification across the industry.

Travel Consultant resume skills: the essential hard skills and soft skills checklist

Ultimately, your Travel Consultant resume should hint to recruiters that you possess an array of talents that are indispensable to the role.

For example, listing the technologies and software you're apt at using (or your hard skills) and how you apply them in your day-to-day responsibilities would ensure you meet the technical requirements of the role.

But is this enough to ensure that you make a good impression on recruiters?

Go a step further by detailing the soft skills or personality traits you've attained thanks to your work and life experience.

The best way to balance hard skills and soft skills on your Travel Consultant resume is by:

  • Highlighting up to three of your most noteworthy career accomplishments in a separate section.
  • Listing at least one hard skill and one soft skill you've used to solve a particular challenge or problem.
  • Feature niche skills and technologies that would help you stand out amongst candidates.
  • Think back on the social impact your efforts have had towards improving the work environment - were you able to always maintain a professional ethic, while enhancing the team culture? Write about your contribution to the role, department, or organization itself as a metric of success.

The skills section of your resume provides you with plenty of opportunities to detail your technical and personal traits.

All you have to do is select the talents that best fit your application and expertise. Make note of some of the most prominent hard and soft skills across the industry from our list:

Top skills for your travel consultant resume:

Travel Planning

Itinerary Development

Reservation Systems

GDS (Global Distribution Systems)

Travel Insurance Knowledge

Destination Expertise

Multilingual Communication

Budget Management

Customized Tour Creation

Travel Industry Regulations

Customer Service

Interpersonal Skills

Problem Solving

Attention to Detail

Organization

Flexibility

Time Management

Cultural Sensitivity

Negotiation

Salesmanship

List your educational qualifications and certifications in reverse chronological order.

Showcase academic background with education and certifications' sections

Listing your education and certifications should be a rudimentary part of your resume writing.

Including your relevant academic background - in the form of your higher education degree and niche-specific certificates - will prove knowledge of the industry.

For your education section:

  • Start by including your degree, followed by start and graduation dates, as well as the institution;
  • You could include relevant coursework, major/minor , or GPA, only if your've just graduated from college or if this information would further support your application;
  • If you have an "ongoing" degree, you can still list it in case you think your diploma can impress recruiters or it's required;

Follow a similar logic for your certifications section by listing the institution, alongside dates you've obtained the certificate. For some of the most recent and relevant industry certificates , check out the next part of our guide:

The top 5 certifications for your travel consultant resume:

  • Certified Travel Associate (CTA) - The Travel Institute
  • Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) - The Travel Institute
  • Travel and Tourism Professional (TTP) - International Air Transport Association (IATA)
  • Certified Travel Industry Executive (CTIE) - The Travel Institute
  • Destination Specialist (DS) - The Travel Institute

List all your relevant higher education degrees within your resume in reverse chronological order (starting with the latest). There are cases when your PhD in a particular field could help you stand apart from other candidates.

  • How To List Certifications On A Resume (Examples Included)

The travel consultant resume summary or objective: integrating keywords, achievements, and more

Deciding whether to include a resume summary or an objective in your travel consultant resume is crucial. Both serve as key introductory elements at the top of your resume, encapsulating your profile in up to five sentences and incorporating relevant keywords from the job advert.

Here are the key differences between the two:

  • The resume summary focuses on aligning your achievements and experience with the job requirements. It provides recruiters with a snapshot of your expertise , helping you stand out as an ideal candidate for the role.
  • The resume objective, on the other hand, centers on your career goals and aspirations , detailing how the role aligns with your career progression. It's particularly suitable for candidates with less professional experience or those new to the job market.

Below are examples demonstrating best practices in utilizing the resume summary and/or objective to make a strong first impression with your travel consultant resume.

Resume summaries for a travel consultant job

  • Seasoned travel consultant with 8 years of experience designing tailored travel experiences for luxury clientele. Expert in luxury cruise planning and exotic destination retreats, the recipient of 2019's Top Consultant Award for exceptional customer satisfaction and sales performance.
  • Dynamic professional with 6 years of dedicated experience in corporate travel management. Adept in creating efficient itinerary plans, managing complex travel arrangements, and providing top-notch client support. Recognized for achieving the highest client retention rate in the past 3 years.
  • Former hospitality manager making a strategic transition into travel consulting, bringing a robust 10-year background in managing high-end resorts, including personalized guest experience enhancement. Eager to apply extensive customer service skills to deliver outstanding travel solutions.
  • Accomplished event coordinator with 5 years of expertise in organizing international events, aiming to leverage a rich network of global contacts and unparalleled organizational skills to transition into travel consulting. Determined to elevate client experiences with meticulous planning and cultural insight.
  • Seeking to embark on a career in travel consulting with a fervent enthusiasm for global cultures and communication. As a recent graduate with a degree in Tourism Management, I am eager to apply my academic knowledge and fluency in three languages to craft unforgettable travel memories for clients.
  • As an avid world traveler and skilled problem-solver, I am excited to translate my personal passion into a professional journey as a travel consultant. With no direct experience in the field, my objective is to harness my extensive customer service background and keen attention to detail to enhance client travel experiences.

Other travel consultant resume sections to support your expertise and skills

Recruiters are always on the lookout for that travel consultant candidate who brings about even more value to the role.

This can be either via their personality or additional accreditations they have across the industry.

Add to your resume any of the four sections that fit your profile:

  • Projects for your most impressive, cutting-edge work;
  • Awards or recognitions that matter the most;
  • Publications further building up your professional portfolio and accreditations;
  • Hobbies and interests to feature the literature you read, how you spend your time outside of work, and other personality traits you deem may help you stand out .

Key takeaways

  • The format and layout of your travel consultant resume should reflect on both your career and what matters most to the job you're applying for;
  • Use the resume summary and objective to hint at your most prominent accomplishments;
  • Always be specific about your experience and consider what value each bullet you curate adds to your travel consultant application;
  • Consider how your academic background and technical capabilities could further showcase your alignment to the role;
  • Your soft skills should contribute to your overall travel consultant profile - aligning your personality with skills and results.

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Moscow Vacation Packages

Moscow vacations are always a great idea when it comes to traveling in Russia. Plan your trip to Moscow with a leading tour operator for Russia and enjoy the ease and pleasure that comes from it. You will stay at the centrally-located hotels, enjoy guided tours to Moscow's best sights with charming local guides, and, most importantly, feel relaxed and immersed in the Russian culture at all times. Wondering what the ideal way to see the best of Moscow is? Well, with a private tour to Moscow, of course! We will listen to your travel preferences and prepare a custom Moscow itinerary just for you. Let's start talking about your upcoming vacation to the gorgeous capital city of Russia.

Moscow Tour Highlights

Explore the capital of the largest country in the world, Russia.

Learn about the most visited sights in Moscow that are worth adding to your Russian itinerary. Create a fantastic tour to Moscow with a destination, choosing your wished activities.

Moscow Tour Highlights

  • Moscow walking tour
  • The Red Square
  • St Basil's Cathedral
  • Moscow Subway ride
  • Tretyakov Gallery
  • The Red Square in Moscow
  • The Bolshoi Theater
  • Cathedral of Christ the Savior
  • Moscow's Kremlin exploration
  • 'Seven Sisters' Skyscrapers

Tips for Moscow Travel

Take a look at the good-to-know tips before visiting Moscow and have a fantastic time in the capital.

moscow

What to pack

Make sure to check the weather prognosis before your trip and pack accordingly.

When to travel

Moscow is beautiful all around the year. Choose traveling time according to preferred activities.

We suggest to always have some cash with you. You will need Rubles (RUB) for Russia.

How much to tip

Tipping is not required in Russia, but it's considered good etiquette, tip 10%-15% of your bill.

The average summer temperature is approx 18°C (64°F), and winter is around -6°C (22°F).

Some of the most popular souvenirs from Moscow are caviar, Krasnaya Moska perfume.

Best Moscow Sights

One of the highest points in Moscow and one of its most breathtaking places - the Sparrow Hills.

See the 344-feet Cathedral of Christ the Savior - the tallest Orthodox church in the world.

Enjoy masterpieces of Russian opera and ballet in Moscow's legendary Bolshoi Theater.

Being the most recognizable symbol of Russia in the world, Red Square is an absolute must see when in Moscow. 

The famous GUM is a large department store in the Kitai-gorod part of Moscow facing Red Square.

St. Basil’s Cathedral is Moscow’s most famous artistic work of architecture set in the romantic Red Square.

History and luxury is revealed inside the Kremlin as the Armoury Chamber displays treasures like Faberge Eggs.

Moscow Metro is like a whole underground city that holds the world's largest collection of Stalinist Art.

The symbol of Moscow and entire Russia, the Kremlin is often described as the 8th Wonder of the World.

I am very satisfied.

I have been using the Firebirds (Travel All Russia) services for a while. I am very satisfied.

WOW. From the choice of hotels to...

WOW. From the choice of hotels, an itinerary that ran to plan, the amazing Guides and drivers, and of course the stunning cities of Moscow and St Petersburg. No long queues for entry to museums, churches, and palaces.  I would gladly recommend using Firebird Tours (Travel All Russia) to anyone.

THANK YOU for making this happen for me !!!

I must say from the day I started to book my tip till the day I got home I had one GREAT trip and experience I always felt safe and cared for help was seconds away not that I needed any I will defiantly highly recommend your company to any traveler to Russia WELL DONE to the Whole team THANK YOU for making this happen for me !!!

We enjoyed the whole trip a lot

Overall we enjoyed the whole trip a lot. Moscow is beautiful and clean. Thank you very much for your patience and excellent organization of this tour. Everything ran very smoothly and according to schedule. The guides met us on time at hotels or at our train carriage on arrival. They all spoke good English, had a good local knowledge and were very kind and helpful.

The tour lived up to all expectations

I’m most pleased with Travel All Russia in arranging our ‘Volga Dream’ Russia tour, I would recommend using your services again as every aspect of our tour went off without a hitch. The communication between our tour representative was excellent as we required additional days on both ends of our tour. The visa process and the logistics were flawlessly implemented.

We had a great time in Moscow!

Everything was perfect and we are very satisfied with services and accommodations.

Loved my time in Russia

The trip was great. Especially want to mention the guides I had on the extra days were exceptional. Both guides and drivers worked out well. Thanks again for all your help and attention. Loved my time in Russia, and still haven’t stopped talking about it.

Exploring Magnificent Russian Capitals, June 2017

Just want to say that our guide in St Petersburg was really outstanding. You really felt like someone was looking after you. Very observant - knowledgeable. We really enjoyed time spent with her.

Exploring Vibrant Moscow, June 2017

The experience was great!!! We had an excellent guide. The hotel was fabulous.

Thank you for your help !!! was an unforgettable trip.

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Russian Tours and Cruises from Express to Russia

  • Moscow Tours

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Moscow Kremlin, photo by Walkerssk on Pixabay

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

St. Basiils Cathedral, Moscow, Photo by vierro from Pexels

A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Photo by Andrey Omelyanchuk on Unsplash

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

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Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

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Kolomenskoye Tour with transport

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was...

Tours by car

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Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Armory Tour

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury...

Walking tours

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Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals, Armory, Diamond Fund Tour

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Old Arbat walking tour

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the...

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Tour to Sergiev Posad with transport

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra)...

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Tour to Kuskovo with transport

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

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Tour to Tsaritsyno with transport

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

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Moscow Metro and Old Arbat Tour

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

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Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion and vodka tasting)

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

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Mikhail Bulgakov Apartment Museum

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

Spasskaya Tower,Moscow Kremlin, Russia, image from Shutterstock

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

Portrait of Leo Tolstoy by Ilya Repin (1887)

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

Novodevichy convent, Moscow, Russia, image from Shutterstock

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

St. Basil's Cathedral, Moscow, Russia, image from Shutterstock

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

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City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

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Moscow Metro walking tour

The Kremlin, Moscow, Russia, image from Shutterstock

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

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KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

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Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Girl with Peaches by Alexander Serov

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

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Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka, photo by Detonart at Pixabay

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Customer

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.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Novodevichy Convent, Moscow

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Kremlin in the times of Ivan III

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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Is It Safe in Moscow?

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Stanislav Solntsev / Getty Images

When you visit Moscow , Russia, you’re seeing one of the world’s largest, and most expensive, capital cities . While there is a history of violent crime against foreign journalists and aid personnel in Russia, a trip to Moscow is usually safe for mainstream travelers. Most tourists in Moscow only face potential issues with petty crime, though terrorism is also a concern. Visitors should stick to the principal tourist areas and abide by the local security advice.

Travel Advisories

  • The U.S. Department of State urges travelers to avoid travel to Russia because of COVID-19 and to "exercise increased caution due to terrorism, harassment, and the arbitrary enforcement of local laws."  
  • Anyone exploring more of Russia should avoid "The North Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mount Elbrus, due to terrorism, kidnapping,   and   risk of civil unrest." Also, travelers should stay away from "Crimea due to Russia’s occupation of the Ukrainian territory   and   abuses by its occupying authorities."  
  • Canada states travelers should use a high degree of caution in Russia due to the threat of terrorism and crime.  

Is Moscow Dangerous?

The Moscow city center is typically safe. In general, the closer you are to the Kremlin , the better. Travelers mainly need to be aware of their surroundings and look out for petty crime. Be especially careful in tourist areas such as Arbat Street and crowded places like the Moscow Metro transit system. The suburbs are also generally fine, though it is advised to stay away from Maryino and Perovo districts.

Terrorism has occurred in the Moscow area, leading authorities to increase security measures. Be more careful at tourist and transportation hubs, places of worship, government buildings, schools, airports, crowds, open markets, and additional tourist sites.

Pickpockets and purse snatching happen often in Russia, perpetrated by groups of children and teenagers who distract tourists to get their wallets and credit cards. Beware of people asking you for help, who then trick you into their scheme. Don’t expect a backpack to be a safe bag bet; instead, invest in something that you can clutch close to your body or purchase a money belt . Always diversify, storing some money in a separate location so that if you are pickpocketed, you'll have cash elsewhere. Keep an eye out for thieves in public transportation, underground walkways, tourist spots, restaurants, hotel rooms and homes, restaurants, and markets.

Is Moscow Safe for Solo Travelers?

Large cities like Moscow in Russia are overall fairly safe if you are traveling alone, and the Moscow Metro public transit is a secure and easy way to get around. But it is still a good idea to follow basic precautions as in any destination. Avoid exploring alone at night, especially in bad areas. You may want to learn some basic Russian phrases or bring a dictionary, as many locals don't speak English. However, in case you need any help, there are tourist police that speak English. Also, exploring with other trusted travelers and locals or on professional tours is often a good way to feel safe.

Is Moscow Safe for Female Travelers?

Catcalling and street harassment are infrequent in Moscow and the rest of Russia and females traveling alone don't usually have problems. There are plenty of police officers on the streets as well. Still, it serves to stick to Moscow's well-lit, public areas, avoid solo night walks, and use your instincts. Women frequenting bars may take receive some friendly attention. Females can wear whatever they want, but those entering Orthodox churches will be required to cover up. Though women in Russia are independent, domestic violence and other inequality issues take place regularly.

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Russia is not known as a gay-friendly country. However, Moscow is one of the more welcoming cities with a blooming LGBTQ+ community and many friendly restaurants, bars, clubs, and other venues. Hate crimes in Russia have increased since the 2013 anti-gay propaganda law. Openly LGBTQ+ tourists in this conservative country may experience homophobic remarks, discrimination, or even violence, especially if traveling with a partner. Also, while women hold hands or hug publicly—whether romantically involved or not—men should avoid public displays of affection to prevent being insulted or other issues.

Safety Tips for BIPOC Travelers

Moscow  and other big cities in Russia have sizable populations of various cultures, so discrimination against BIPOC travelers is rarer than in other parts of the country where it can become dangerous. Some people living in Russia who are Black, Asian, Jewish, and from other backgrounds have experienced racial discrimination and violence. Tourists won't usually experience overt racism but may be the recipients of some stares. If anyone should bother you, be polite and resist being taunted into physically defending yourself.

Safety Tips for Travelers

Travelers should consider the following general tips when visiting:

  • It's best not to drink the tap water. If you do, boil it before drinking, though showering is safe and the amount used to brush teeth is generally not harmful. Mineral water is widely drunk, especially at restaurants, and if you prefer not to have it carbonated ask for “ voda byez gaz” (water without gas).
  • If you need emergency assistance in case of fire, terrorism, medical issues, or more, dial 112 in Russia for bilingual operators.
  • Be judicious about taking photographs, especially of police or officials. This can potentially bring unwanted attention to yourself by members of law enforcement who won’t mind asking to see your passport. Also avoid snapping photos of official-looking buildings, such as embassies and government headquarters.
  • Carry your passport in as secure a manner as possible. If you get stopped for any reason by the police, they can fine or arrest you if you don't have the document with you. Also, keep photocopies of your passport, the page on which your travel visa appears, and any other documents that relate to your stay in Russia.
  • Use official taxis only and steer clear of illegal taxi companies, especially at night. Ask your hotel to call a reputable taxi company.

U.S. Department of State. " Russia Travel Advisory ." August 6, 2020.

Government of Canada. " Official Global Travel Advisories ." November 19, 2020.

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Airlines required to refund passengers for canceled, delayed flights

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg announced the new rules Wednesday.

Good news for airline travelers: the Department of Transportation on Wednesday announced it is rolling out new rules that will require airlines to automatically give cash refunds to passengers for canceled and significantly delayed flights.

"This is a big day for America's flying public," said Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg at a Wednesday morning news conference. Buttigieg said the new rules -- which require prompt refunds -- are the biggest expansion of passenger rights in the department's history.

Airlines can no longer decide how long a delay must be before a refund is issued. Under the new DOT rules, the delays covered would be more than three hours for domestic flights and more than six hours for international flights, the agency said.

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This includes tickets purchased directly from airlines, travel agents and third-party sites such as Expedia and Travelocity.

The DOT rules lay out that passengers will be "entitled to a refund if their flight is canceled or significantly changed, and they do not accept alternative transportation or travel credits offered."

PHOTO: A person walks through the terminal as planes remain at gates at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport in Arlington, Va., Wednesday, Jan. 11, 2023.

DOT will also require airlines to give cash refunds if your bags are lost and not delivered within 12 hours.

The refunds must be issued within seven days, according to the new DOT rules, and must be in cash unless the passenger chooses another form of compensation. Airlines can no longer issue refunds in forms of vouchers or credits when consumers are entitled to receive cash.

Airlines will have six months to comply with the new rules.

PHOTO: U.S. Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg speaks at a press conference at the Reagan National Airport on April 24, 2024.

"Passengers deserve to get their money back when an airline owes them -- without headaches or haggling," Buttigieg said in a statement.

The DOT said it is also working on rules related to family seating fees, enhancing rights for wheelchair-traveling passengers for safe and dignified travel and mandating compensation and amenities if flights are delayed or canceled by airlines.

Buttigieg said the DOT is also protecting airline passengers from being surprised by hidden fees -- a move he estimates will have Americans billions of dollars every year.

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The DOT rules include that passengers will receive refunds for extra services paid for and not provided, such as Wi-Fi, seat selection or inflight entertainment.

The rules come after the agency handed Southwest Airlines a record $140 million fine for its operational meltdown during the 2022 holiday travel season.

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Buttigieg said Southwest's fine sets a "new standard" for airlines and passenger rights.

"To be clear, we want the airline sector to thrive. It is why we put so much into helping them survive the pandemic and honestly it's why we're being so rigorous on passenger protection," he said.

Buttigieg reiterated that refund requirements are already the standard for airlines, but the new DOT rules hold the airlines to account and makes sure passengers get the "refunds that are owed to them."

"Airlines are not enthusiastic about us holding them to a higher standard," Buttigieg said, adding that he "knows they will be able to adapt to this."

Airlines for America, the trade association for the country's leading passenger and cargo airlines, told ABC News in a statement that its members "offer a range of options -- including fully refundable fares." Is said consumers are "given the choice of refundable ticket options with terms and conditions that best fit their needs at first search results."

The group said the 11 largest U.S. airlines issued $43 billion in customer refunds from 2020 through 2023 nearly $11 billion in refunds just last year.

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Automatic Refunds and No More Hidden Fees: D.O.T. Sets New Rules for Airlines

The Transportation Department issued new requirements on refunds when flights are canceled or delayed and on revealing “junk” fees before booking. Here’s what passengers can expect.

A blue airport screen showing extensive cancellations and delays is shown in close up with a man standing in front of it.

By Christine Chung

The Transportation Department on Wednesday announced new rules taking aim at two of the most difficult and annoying issues in air travel: obtaining refunds and encountering surprise fees late in the booking process.

“Passengers deserve to know upfront what costs they are facing and should get their money back when an airline owes them — without having to ask,” said U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg in a statement, adding that the changes would not only save passengers “time and money,” but also prevent headaches.

The department’s new rules, Mr. Buttigieg said, will hold airlines to clear and consistent standards when they cancel, delay or substantially change flights, and require automatic refunds to be issued within weeks. They will also require them to reveal all fees before a ticket is purchased.

Airlines for America , a trade group representing the country’s largest air carriers, said in a statement that its airlines “abide by and frequently exceed” D.O.T. consumer protection regulations.

Passenger advocates welcomed the new steps.

Tomasz Pawliszyn, the chief executive of AirHelp, a Berlin-based company that assists passengers with airline claims, called it a “massive step forward and huge improvement in consumer rights and protection” that brings the United States closer to global standards in passenger rights.

Here’s what we know about the D.O.T.’s new rules, which will begin to go into effect in October.

There’s now one definition for a “significant” delay.

Until now, airlines have been allowed to set their own definition for a “significant” delay and compensation has varied by carrier . Now, according to the D.O.T., there will be one standard: when departure or arrival is delayed by three hours for domestic flights and six hours for international flights.

Passengers will get prompt refunds for cancellations or significant changes for flights and delayed bags, for any reason.

When things go wrong, getting compensation from an airline has often required establishing a cumbersome paper trail or spending untold hours on the phone. Under the new rules, refunds will be automatic, without passengers having to request them. Refunds will be made in full, excepting the value of any transportation already used. Airlines and ticket agents must provide refunds in the original form of payment, whether by cash, credit card or airline miles. Refunds are due within seven days for credit card purchases and within 20 days for other payments.

Passengers with other flight disruptions, such as being downgraded to a lower service class, are also entitled to refunds.

The list of significant changes for which passengers can get their money back also includes: departure or arrival from an airport different from the one booked; connections at different airports or flights on planes that are less accessible to a person with a disability; an increase in the number of scheduled connections. Also, passengers who pay for services like Wi-Fi or seat selection that are then unavailable will be refunded any fees.

Airlines must give travel vouchers or credits to ticketed passengers unable to fly because of government restrictions or a doctor’s orders.

The vouchers or credits will be transferable and can be used for at least five years after the date they were issued.

Fees for checked baggage and modifying a reservation must be disclosed upfront.

Airlines and ticket agents are now required to display any extra fees for things like checking bags or seat selection clearly and individually before a ticket purchase. They will also need to outline the airline’s policies on baggage, cancellations and changing flights before a customer purchases a ticket.

The rules, which apply to all flights on domestic airlines and flights to and from the United States operated by foreign airlines, have varying start dates.

For example, automatic refunds must be instituted by the airlines within six months. But carriers have a year before they’re required to issue travel vouchers and credits for passengers advised by a medical professional not to fly.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

Christine Chung is a Times reporter covering airlines and consumer travel. More about Christine Chung

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Mumbai:  Spend 36 hours in this fast-changing Indian city  by exploring ancient caves, catching a concert in a former textile mill and feasting on mangoes.

Kyoto:  The Japanese city’s dry gardens offer spots for quiet contemplation  in an increasingly overtouristed destination.

Iceland:  The country markets itself as a destination to see the northern lights. But they can be elusive, as one writer recently found .

Texas:  Canoeing the Rio Grande near Big Bend National Park can be magical. But as the river dries, it’s getting harder to find where a boat will actually float .

More From Forbes

The government just passed a rule requiring airlines to provide cash refunds for delayed flights. here’s what to know.

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Under a new Federal rule, airlines are now required to pay customers cash refunds for delayed or ... [+] canceled flights.

A new set of rules announced on Wednesday by the Department of Transportation are focused on righting some wrongs in the airline industry and providing extra consumer protection.

Previously, federal policies allowed airlines to compensate customers for delayed or cancelled flights with vouchers or credits. They also allowed carriers to set their own rules regarding when passengers should be compensated - i.e., it was the airlines that decided when a flight had been delayed too long, and whether/when/how much to compensate passengers for the inconvenience.

But now, the new federal rules will government when and how passengers are compensated for delays and cancellations. Here’s what you need to know:

The new rules specify when passengers must be compensated for delays.

Previously, airlines could make their own internal rules about when passengers should receive compensation for a flight delay. But the new Department of Transportation rules actually sets an industry-wide standard: Delays requiring compensation are defined as delays of more than three hours for domestic flights and more than six hours for international flights. Flights that are diverted to a different airport are also eligible for a refund.

Airlines must now compensate passengers with cash refunds.

If your flight delay matches the rules set out above, airlines are required to provide you with a cash refund instead of a travel voucher or travel credit. While frequent fliers may have never had an issue with receiving a credit or voucher, folks who fly sparingly often found the system unfair, and the travel credits less useful. The new rules guarantee that everyone is paid back in cash and within a timely manner: Seven days for a credit card refund and 20 days for other forms of payment.

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Apple iphone 16 unique all new design promised in new report, rudy giuliani and mark meadows indicted in arizona fake electors case, compensation includes extra protection for situations where you are forced to switch airlines..

In his remarks Wednesday, Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg gave an example a traveler who, after experiencing a delayed flight, is forced to buy an additional ticket on another airline in order to make it to their destination in time for an event.

In these cases, airlines often refused refunds if they didn’t cancel the flight. But now, the new rules will require airlines to be on the hook for those types of reimbursements.

“That’s just one example of the kinds of scenarios that we hear from passengers time and time again. We’re putting a stop to it now,” said Buttigieg.

Baggage and other fees must be refunded in certain circumstances.

If your bag is delayed and arrives more than 12 hours after you land, airlines are required to refund the passenger any baggage fees that were paid, according to the new rules. They also say that airlines must provide refunds for any services that don’t come to fruition, like malfuctioning Wi-Fi.

You can read the complete rundown of the rules on the Department of Transportation’s website.

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Secret Service agent on VP Harris' detail removed from assignment after physical fight while on duty

A U.S. Secret Service agent with Vice President Kamala Harris’ detail was removed from their assignment after engaging in a physical fight with other agents while on duty Monday, Fox News Digital has learned.

The fight was first reported by The New York Post and confirmed to Fox News Digital by a source.

The incident happened at Joint Base Andrews in Maryland while Harris was at the Naval Observatory, but didn’t delay her departure from the base, the Secret Service told Fox News Digital.

Anthony Guglielmi, chief of communications for the U.S. Secret Service, called the incident a "medical matter," adding that the agency wouldn’t be commenting further.

RECORDS SHOW BIDEN DOG, COMMANDER, ATTACKED SECRET SERVICE MEMBERS AT LEAST 24 TIMES

"At approximately 9 a.m. April 22, a U.S. Secret Service special agent supporting the Vice President’s departure from Joint Base Andrews began displaying behavior their colleagues found distressing," Guglielmi said in a statement shared with Fox News Digital.

READ ON THE FOX NEWS APP

TEEN CHARGED IN 2023 BREAK-IN OF SECRET SERVICE SUV PARKED OUTSIDE OF NAOMI BIDEN'S DC HOME

He added, "The agent was removed from their assignment while medical personnel were summoned. The Vice President was at the Naval Observatory when this incident occurred and there was no impact on her departure from Joint Base Andrews.

"The U.S. Secret Service takes the safety and health of our employees very seriously. As this was a medical matter, we will not disclose any further details."

The agent, who had been acting "erratically," began punching the special agent in charge after getting on top of him, Real Clear Politics reported.

The agent, who was handcuffed after the incident and treated by medical staff, had previously been a subject of concern by staff, the outlet reported.

Original article source: Secret Service agent on VP Harris' detail removed from assignment after physical fight while on duty

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Air Travel Is About to Get a Little Less Annoying

Portrait of Nia Prater

The days of airlines leaving customers in the financial lurch after canceling their flights may be coming to an end.

On Wednesday, the U.S. Department of Transportation issued two new rules that are aimed at tackling delayed refunds and hidden junk fees for consumers. Airlines will be required to promptly refund customers who are owed money and to inform customers about service fees before they purchase their fares and additional services.

“Passengers deserve to know upfront what costs they are facing and should get their money back when an airline owes them — without having to ask,” Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg said in a statement. “Today’s announcements will require airlines to both provide passengers better information about costs before ticket purchase, and promptly provide cash refunds to passengers when they are owed — not only saving passengers time and money, but also preventing headaches.”

Customers will be entitled to an automatic cash refund if their flights were canceled or “significantly changed,” if their baggage was extremely delayed, or if an airline failed to provide a service the customer paid for, such as Wi-Fi or in-flight entertainment. Examples of significant changes include delays of more than three hours on domestic flights or more than six hours on international flights, increased connections, and a new airport for arrivals and destinations. Under the new regulation, customers won’t be required to request a refund in order to obtain it. The cash refunds must also be issued within seven business days or up to 20 business days for other forms of payment. Airlines will be required to repay customers the full amount either in cash or through the customers’ initial form of payment.

Airlines will also be required to disclose individual service fees up front, to explain their fee policies for carry-ons and cancellations prior to purchase, and to share that information with travel agencies and other third-party travel-booking websites. The rule will also prevent airlines from advertising discounted flights that have hidden additional fees unrelated to the lower base fare.

The implementation period for these new regulations will vary for the various stakeholders. Airlines will have six months to comply with the refund changes but up to 12 months for many of the service-fee regulations.

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    5. Travel frequently. First-hand experience can help you make appropriate recommendations for your clients. Travel to as many new locations as you can, and keep a journal so you can remember the best restaurants, shops and other activities. Write your own reviews as soon as you visit so clients can read them. 6.

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    The TAP® test or Travel Agent Proficiency is the first step towards professional recognition. Often included at the end of entry-level training programs, the test allows candidates to demonstrate that they have mastered the basics of the travel industry - selling skills, basic geography, and the items/products sold by travel counselors.

  9. How to Become a Travel Consultant: Complete Career Path

    A Travel Consultant internship may be required to earn your Bachelor's Degree and acquire necessary on-the-job skills before entering the workforce. 2. Choose a Specialty in Your Field As an Travel Consultant, you may be required to choose a specialty within your field. Determine which part of the Travel Consultant field you feel strongest in ...

  10. How to Become a Travel Consultant: 14 Steps (with Pictures)

    2. Attend a 2-year or 4-year college. While college is not strictly necessary to become a travel consultant, your job prospects will increase exponentially if you have an associate's or bachelor's degree in a relevant field. Look for programs or majors in travel, tourism, geography, business, communications, hospitality, or any foreign ...

  11. Travel Consultant Job Description [+2024 TEMPLATE]

    Travel Consultant responsibilities include: Determining clients' needs and suggesting suitable travel packages. Organizing travels from beginning to end, including tickets, accommodation and transportation. Supplying travelers with pertinent information and useful travel/holiday materials.

  12. How to Become a Travel Agent: All Your Questions, Answered

    Step 1: Find a host agency that gets you. If you're interested in becoming a travel agent, you'll need to choose a host agency. Travel agents work with a travel agency, referred to as a host agency, that handles commissions and other logistics. A host agency like Fora acts as an umbrella organization, providing resources to travel agents ...

  13. How to Become a Travel Agent

    According to May 2020 data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the mean hourly wage for a travel agent is $22.43, and the mean annual wage for a travel agent is $46,650. The data also shows that Washington is the top paying state for travel agents, with a mean wage of $62,040. Prospective advisors should note that this data encompasses ...

  14. What does a Travel Consultant do? Role & Responsibilities

    A travel consultant uses their expert knowledge to arrange and make reservations for flights, hotel stays, travel excursions, and vacation packages. They speak with contacts at properties across the globe to help customize clients' vacations to their needs. They recommend restaurants, sightseeing destinations, and may arrange travel discounts.

  15. Travel Consultant Resume Examples & Guide for 2024

    Your travel consultant resume must highlight your extensive knowledge of global destinations. Showcase your proficiency in creating tailored itineraries that align with clients' preferences. It's imperative to demonstrate your adeptness in leveraging travel software and online booking systems. Ensure your resume reflects your strong ...

  16. Moscow Tours

    Moscow Vacation Packages. Moscow vacations are always a great idea when it comes to traveling in Russia. Plan your trip to Moscow with a leading tour operator for Russia and enjoy the ease and pleasure that comes from it. You will stay at the centrally-located hotels, enjoy guided tours to Moscow's best sights with charming local guides, and ...

  17. The 20 Best Moscow Tours for 2022

    This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing. $ 941 From/Per person. Details.

  18. Is It Safe to Travel to Moscow?

    Travel Advisories . The U.S. Department of State urges travelers to avoid travel to Russia because of COVID-19 and to "exercise increased caution due to terrorism, harassment, and the arbitrary enforcement of local laws."; Anyone exploring more of Russia should avoid "The North Caucasus, including Chechnya and Mount Elbrus, due to terrorism, kidnapping, and risk of civil unrest."

  19. Real Estate Agents in Moscow

    Travel & Transportation: Real Estate Agents in Moscow Main-> Real Estatee-> Real Estate Agents. ... Representing both property owners and tenants, the firm provides services and counsels tailored to each client's unique requirements and individual real estate needs. Phone: +7 (495) 730-2000

  20. REAL ID requirements are coming. Here's what U.S. fliers need to ...

    The REAL ID Act was introduced in 2005 in an effort to tighten the nation's air travel security in the wake of the September 11 attacks. The deadline for REAL ID compliance has been repeatedly ...

  21. Airlines required to refund passengers for canceled, delayed flights

    The DOT rules lay out that passengers will be "entitled to a refund if their flight is canceled or significantly changed, and they do not accept alternative transportation or travel credits ...

  22. Airlines will now be required to give automatic cash refunds for

    Travel Airlines will now be required to give automatic cash refunds for canceled and delayed flights Under current regulations, airlines decide how long a delay must last before triggering refunds.

  23. What to Know About the New Rules on Airline Refunds and 'Junk' Fees

    April 24, 2024, 9:37 a.m. ET. The Transportation Department on Wednesday announced new rules taking aim at two of the most difficult and annoying issues in air travel: obtaining refunds and ...

  24. The Government Just Passed A Rule Requiring Airlines To ...

    Airlines must now compensate passengers with cash refunds. If your flight delay matches the rules set out above, airlines are required to provide you with a cash refund instead of a travel voucher ...

  25. Secret Service agent on VP Harris' detail removed from ...

    A Secret Service agent with Vice President Kamala Harris' detail was removed from their assignment after engaging in a physical fight, a source confirmed to Fox News Digital. "At approximately 9 ...

  26. Biden Admin Comes Down Hard on Airline Junk Fees

    On Wednesday, the U.S. Department of Transportation issued two new rules that are aimed at tackling delayed refunds and hidden junk fees for consumers. Airlines will be required to promptly refund ...