How Do I Start A Travel Agency

I am interested in the field of tourism and for this I have decide to open a travel agency searching for the details to start this agency. Will you please provide me Steps how to start travel agency along with the list of some roles and responsibilities I have to take care about so I can start?

[Shaleen]

The travel industry is a strong economic sector, but travel booking is also a service many people would rather perform themselves.

Running your own travel agency from home comes with a unique set of challenges and perks.

Steps to start travel agency:

Step 1

Decide whether to become an independent travel consultant for a travel agency, franchise owner of an established travel agency or start your own agency.

Step 2

Determine the types of travel services to offer clients. Travel services include transportation arrangements (air, train, boat, car), hotel and resort reservations, cruise packages and specialized tour packages

Types of Services

The types of services typically offered by a travel professional include:

Offering one-stop shopping for all travel arrangements
Creating itineraries and travel schedules that mesh with clients' interests
Ferreting out the best prices and schedules
Booking airline tickets and reserving seats
Booking cruises and cruise/tours
Reserving hotels and other accommodations
Arranging for rental vehicles and other ground transportation
Creating specialty tour packages and possibly serving as the tour leader
Arranging customized events, like conventions or destination weddings
Offering travel insurance
Advising clients about passport/visa requirements, travel advisories, inoculation needs and other domestic and international travel requirements
Acting as a travelers' advocate (fighting for consumers' rights; assisting travelers with special needs, intervening with suppliers when problems arise)
Coordinating the million or so other details necessary to ensure clients' satisfaction

Step 3

Lease a space for your travel agency or work from home.

Step 4

Create a website that includes a description of travel services, contact information and on-line booking options.

Step 5

Purchase general liability or home-based business insurance to protect your business in the event of a lawsuit or settlement.

Step 6

Create marketing materials, such as brochures, business cards and flyers to promote your travel agency.