travel planners international vs outside agents

Outside Agents Vs. KHM Travel Group: Choosing The Right Host Agency

Joining a host travel agency provides independent travel agents with valuable support, technology, and benefits. But how do you select the right host?

Outside Agents and KHM Travel Group are two top options, but they vary in their offerings for affiliated agents.

This in-depth guide examines the commissions, training, tools, and key differences between Outside Agents and KHM to help you pick the best host agency fit.

A Comparison Table

Overview of outside agents.

Founded in 2005, Outside Agents is a host travel agency that contracts with independent travel agents to provide them with technology, support, and lucrative commissions.

Here’s a quick look at what Outside Agents offers:

• Some of the highest commission rates in the industry
• Wide range of travel affiliate programs to leverage
• Cloud-based agent platform for booking tools
• Ongoing training programs and professional development
• Private community forums for agent networking

Outside Agents has partnered with over 5,000 independent travel professionals during the past 15+ years.

Overview of KHM Travel Group

Established in 1997, KHM Travel Group is one of the largest host agencies contracting over 50,000 independent travel agents worldwide.

KHM provides:

• Access to exclusive travel agent rates and perks
• Support team available 16 hours daily
• Cloud-based booking platform and CRM
• Marketing materials and template websites
• Rewards program for agents
• Extensive training program for professional growth

For over 20 years, KHM has provided the tools agents need to build successful travel businesses.

Also Read: Comparison Between Klook and KKday

Key Differences Between Outside Agents And KHM Travel Group

• Comparing Commission Rates

One of the top priorities for affiliated agents is how much they earn on bookings. Here is how Outside Agents and KHM commission structures compare:

Outside Agents

• Commissions from 80% to 90% across all suppliers
• Additional revenue share incentives
• Bonus commissions for reaching higher sales tiers
• One of the highest payouts among host agencies

KHM Travel Group

• Commissions range from 70% to 80% with most vendors
• Bonus commission incentives starting at just $5,000 in sales
• Rewards program for cash back on bookings
• Profit sharing when goals met

Based on their commission tiers, Outside Agents appears to offer higher earning potential for productive agents.

• Training and Professional Development

Ongoing education is key for travel agents. Here’s an overview of training with each host:

• Regular live workshops and webinars
• Outside U online training program with accreditation
• Annual conference for learning and networking
• Private forum access and insider tips from top agents
• Learning incentives when completing training
• KHM University with extensive online courses
• Annual conference and networking events
• Regional meetups for collaborating with fellow agents
• Private Facebook group for real-time advice
• Rewards for completing training benchmarks

Both hosts provide robust training resources combining online courses, live workshops, and community support. Outside Agents training may be slightly more extensive.

• Technology and Resources

The tools and resources supplied to contracted agents also matter. Here’s an overview:

• User-friendly cloud-based AgentPro booking platform
• Integrates with client management system TripPro
• Templates for branded marketing materials
• Access to discounted travel agent rates
• Perks like waived fees, travel insurance, and more
• Cloud-based Nexion booking engine
• Integrated agent management system
• Marketing templates and content resources
• Travel agent discounts on hotels, flights, tours
• Rewards program for free travel and more

The technology platforms offered by both hosts enable agents to efficiently book travel and manage their business. KHM may have a slight edge in marketing resources.

• Support for Growing Your Business

Hosts aim to provide the foundation for agents to grow successfully:

• One-on-one business coaching and mentoring
• Goal setting assistance and accountability
• Ongoing support by email, phone, and in forum
• Advice on niche specialization to stand out
• Dedicated support team available daily
• Private forum community provides guidance
• Partnerships with key vendors to drive bookings
• Assistance with marketing and business strategy

Both hosts offer significant support for taking your travel business to the next level. Outside Agents may provide more individualized coaching.

Also Read: Comparison Between Travelocity And Priceline

• Reputation Among Affiliated Agents

Feedback from contracted travel agents sheds light on their host experiences:

Outside Agents Reviews

• Many agents rave about outstanding support received
• Technology platform earns high marks for user-friendliness
• Commissions described as generous and prompt

KHM Travel Group Reviews

• Mixed feedback on support team responsiveness
• Reviews praise marketing resources and training
• Some concerns noted about outdated tech platform

Outside Agents gets stellar reviews particularly for the high service levels and earning potential. KHM earns solid feedback but has some areas agents felt needed improvement.

Watch this review video:

Pros and Cons of Each Host Agency

Outside Agents Pros

• Very high commission percentages
• Extensive training program
• Outstanding service and support reputation
• Customizable marketing materials

Outside Agents Cons

• Less global reach than larger hosts
• Higher bonus thresholds to earn

KHM Travel Group Pros

• Global presence and vendor relationships
• Huge assortment of marketing collateral
• Rewards program benefits
• Massive agent community for networking
• Mixed reviews of technology and support
• Lower commission rates than competitors
• Rewards incentives could be improved

For the highest commissions and service, Outside Agents shines. But KHM’s global scale and big vendor network appeals to many agents.

Choosing the Best Host Agency

When selecting between Outside Agents and KHM Travel Group, keep these factors in mind:

• Your expected sales volume and income goals
• The commission percentage and bonus structure
• Your need for marketing materials and branding
• The technology and booking tools provided
• Your desire for community networking opportunities
• The level of one-on-one support preferred

Ideally, speak with agents contracted by each host to get insights before deciding. Ensure the host you select equips you with the resources and earnings potential to thrive as an independent travel agent.

Also Read:  Comparison Between Viator And Klook

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

A travel agent is an individual travel professional who offers advice and makes bookings for clients. A travel agency is a business that employs travel agents to sell vacations, trips, and other travel services. Agents can work for an agency or independently.

Outside Agents was founded in 2005, so they have been in business for over 15 years. During that time they have contracted thousands of independent travel agents to provide them with support, technology, and lucrative commissions.

An outside agent refers to an independent contractor travel agent who is affiliated with a host agency but not directly employed by that agency. Outside agents work for themselves but get access to a host’s tools, technology, and relationships in return for sharing commissions.

A host travel agency contracts self-employed outside agent travel agents to provide them with things like booking platforms, vendor relationships, training, support services, marketing materials and more. Top hosts include Outside Agents, KHM Travel Group, Travel Planners International, and Nexion.

Also Read: Comparison Between Outside Agents And InteleTravel .

Final Thought

Joining the right host agency gives independent travel agents immense value. Compare Outside Agents and KHM Travel Group side-by-side based on commissions, tools, support, and reputation. Talk to current affiliated agents before deciding to ensure the host you pick best fits your business needs and goals.

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Top 10 Reasons New Travel Agents Join Travel Planners International

Another day is over and you wonder: why on earth did I only book only one family vacation?

Being a work at home travel agent is not what you thought it would be.

Could it be that you are not affiliated with a host travel agency? Or perhaps you joined one that isn’t helping you?

You work non-stop, but are discouraged and want to give up.

Before you squash your dream of becoming a thriving travel agent, consider the 10 reasons why new agents join Travel Planners International. Read through the list and know that there is a host agency that gives you the tools and training you need to succeed.

10 Reasons Why New Travel Agents Join TPI

Strong Reputation in the Travel Industry

TPI has a strong reputation for being the best – we have the experience to prove it, which makes the decision to partner with us a clear one. In addition to our flexible hosting plans, new and experienced travel agents can focus on selling travel and building a loyal clientele without the administrative or expense of owning and operating a brick and mortar travel agency business.

Adhere to a Set of Core Values

Continuous Training and Networking

When you join TPI, you can take advantage of our T.E.A.M. program (Training. Education. Ambassador. Meetings). We’re in 27 local markets with plans to add more in 2016. TPI partnered with Travel Alliance Media to give our agents supplier updates and training, online marketing training, and specialized business building presentations. TPI and non-TPI agents gather together and share best practices – we learn from each other.

Gain Authority in the Travel Industry

Being affiliated with a major travel host agency can add legitimacy to you and your business. Potential new clients will breathe a sigh of relief and appreciate the name recognition of TPI – a large player in the

travel industry. Because you’ve joined Travel Planners International you will more likely gain clients and grow your business quicker (as long as you work your business) than you may have thought possible.

Website and Marketing Assistance

Thanks to our partnership with Agent Studio, we’re raising the bar on our website offering to travel agents. Even if you’re a natural salesperson and can communicate with your customers, you have to continuously market yourself. With Agent Studio’s enhanced technology, TPI members will have better way to connect, communicate, and share travel content that their clients want.

Competitive Pricing Structure

If you’ve been looking for a faster and easier way to make money, you’ve come to the right host travel agency. TPI’s Cruise Pricing includes hundreds of sailings with blocked group space where TPI agents are able to book their smaller groups or individual cabins, resulting in a huge savings for their customer. TPI’s dedicated staff secures hundreds of TPI exclusive rates for the benefit of our agents. Savings may  range from $25 to $1,000 per person.

5,000+ Rockstars Have Partnered With Us

Determine which path is right for you

Family Oriented Host Travel Agency

TPI is a family oriented travel host agency. We keep a personal, nurturing spirit alive by supporting agents every step of the way. Everything that’s done at TPI, from decision making to creating new tools, is made from the view point of benefiting TPI travel agent partners. You don’t have to build your travel business alone. REAL help is available to you.

Educating and Changing Consumer Perceptions

The “I can book my own travel” attitude is common today. However, at TPI we understand the value of a travel agent and plan to educate and change consumer perceptions. It begins with agents realizing the power of specializing in a niche. The more focused they are the better they can serve clients. The new TPI website will make it easy for the consumer to plan their next vacation, find the right supplier and destination, and connect with a TPI agent who can assist with planning their adventure!

Help with Building Your Travel Business

At TPI, we understand that being a home-based travel agent is not easy. New agents may feel as if they are left ‘out there’ all by themselves. We provide agents with REAL HELP building and growing their businesses from an entrepreneurial perspective. At this years’ TPI Extravaganza Conference, we packed the program with business experts who have ‘been there, done that’. They shared those game-changing experiences to help our agents grow their bottom line. Watch for it, in 2016 we’re taking the show on the road!

Stay Up-to-Date on the Travel Industry

In addition to various trade publications, TPICENTRAL gives you access to travel industry news, supplier specials and much more. TPI’s Marketing Department sends out communications with news and specials several times weekly, so you won’t miss out on the latest happenings in the industry.

Picture yourself in sitting in your chair in your home office with your feet up on your desk. A smile forms across your face.

Why are you so happy? Because you’ve joined the thousands of other travel agents at Travel Planners International and started growing your travel business.

Not only are you connecting with new customers but you’re meeting and networking with other agents who share their stories of how they started and continue to grow their business.

Instead of fearing that you won’t attract clients, you look forward to building your travel agency because you understand the ins and outs of digital and offline marketing. For example, you realize that you must be ‘social’ on social media and have conversations with people instead of hard selling them.

Does  this sound impossible? It’s not.

Refer to this post often to read why new travel agents choose to join Travel Planners International. Make the decision today to pick up the phone or chat with a TPI representative via Live Chat.

What are you waiting for? TPI is 100% dedicated to the success of our travel agents! Join today and you will be one step closer to becoming a top travel agent.

Contact Travel Planners International and join today!

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Host Travel Agency vs Independent Travel Agency: Pros and Cons

Updated: March 29th, 2024

In the travel industry, Host Travel Agencies and Independent Travel Agencies both have their place. However, which one you choose depends on your individual needs and goals. This week we'll look into the advantages and drawbacks of partnering with a Host Travel Agency versus operating as an Independent Travel Agent, providing insight to help you make an informed decision for your business.

Host Travel Agency: What are the Advantages and Disadvantages?

Access to exclusive deals and higher commission rates: Host Travel Agency provides its partnered Travel Agencies with access to its network of suppliers, enabling them to offer clients competitive rates and exclusive deals. Furthermore, these partnerships translate to higher commission levels - ultimately increasing overall revenue.

Reduced Overhead Costs: Travel Agencies can save money by partnering with a Host Agency, who offer shared resources like booking systems, CRM software, and group insurance plans. This way, they gain access to shared resources like booking systems, CRM software, and group insurance plans at no additional cost.

Expert Guidance and Support: Host Travel Agencies provide ongoing training, and professional development opportunities, as well as access to an extensive network of industry professionals that offer invaluable support and advice for partnered Travel Agents.

Marketing and Branding Assistance: Host Agency partnerships offer Travel Agencies access to marketing tools and resources, enabling them to craft successful strategies that boost their visibility and attract new clients.

Sharing a portion of commissions: When working with a Host Travel Agency, Travel Agents typically need to share some of their earnings with the host. Nevertheless, the advantages of working together often outweigh these costs since the host provides invaluable support and resources in return.

Less autonomy: Partnering with a Host Travel Agency may require adhering to specific guidelines or processes set by the host. For some Travel Agencies, this may feel restrictive compared to operating independently.

Independent Travel Agencies: Benefits and Disadvantages

Greater Autonomy: As an Independent Travel Agency, you have total control over your business operations and decisions; this gives you the freedom to customize the agency according to your unique vision and objectives.

Retaining All Commissions: Independent Travel Agencies do not partner with Host Travel Agents and thus retain 100% of the commissions earned from bookings.

Limited Access to Supplier Deals and Commissions: Independent Travel Agencies may find it more challenging to form relationships with suppliers and secure exclusive offers or higher commission levels compared to Host Travel Agency partners.

Higher overhead costs: Independent Travel Agencies are accountable for covering all business costs, such as office space, software and insurance - which can be expensive.

Independent Travel Agencies Lack Industry Support: Without a Host Travel Agency, Independent Travel Agencies must rely on their networks and resources for industry guidance, potentially hindering their growth and development.

Conclusion:

When selecting between a Host Travel Agency partnership and operating as an Independent Travel Agency, carefully consider your business's unique requirements and goals. A Host Agency may offer valuable support, resources, and access to supplier relationships; on the other hand, an Independent Travel Agency gives you more autonomy and control. Ultimately, the best decision for you will depend on your personal preferences and objectives as a travel professional.

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Host Travel Agencies: Why You Need Them and How to Choose the Best Option

• 10 min read
• Business ,   Travel
• Published: 16 Sep, 2020
• 2 Comments Share

In 2020, the travel industry found itself among the sectors hardest hit by COVID-19. The American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) reported a 75-percent cut in revenue across travel agencies compared to 2019. Now, businesses face a long road to recovery. Being most vulnerable to the consequences of the crisis, small companies need additional support and cost-reduction opportunities. Many of them choose to seek help from host agencies ,which proved to be a wise move even in better times. This article explains how host agencies work, what benefits they offer to travel professionals, and how to choose the right fit out of endless options.

What is a host travel agency?

Host travel agency business model

All agents belonging to a particular host use the same accreditation numbers or IDs to book travel. That way, suppliers see the entire group as one reputable client rather than a band of newbies with low sales volumes. This model allows companies on a tight budget to skip the time-consuming and costly procedures of acquiring necessary credentials. Besides, they get access to better deals and higher commission levels available for wholesalers or corporate clients only. In return, a host splits commissions with the agent and charges a fixed fee (monthly or annually) for its services.

Host travel agency accreditations and memberships

What accreditations does an agency need to be identified as a travel professional? While there are numerous options, hosts typically work with the three most accepted and important IDs. IATA/IATAN numeric code . Accreditation from the International Air Transport Association ( IATA ) or its US-based division, the International Airlines Travel Agent Network ( IATAN ) authorizes issuing air tickets on behalf of airlines. It also serves as a sign of professionalism for travel advisors and other industry players. ARC Agency Code Number . The Airlines Reporting Corporation or ARC works only with US travel agents. It enables them to sell airline tickets and handles financial transactions between carriers and retailers. In fact, ARC and IATAN duplicate each other, so ARC-affiliated companies don’t need IATAN credentials. However, many American agencies prefer to have both, as IATAN is associated with worldwide professional recognition and its members can enjoy significant travel discounts. CLIA Agency Membership . A travel agency may book cruises, no matter the type of professional accreditation it has. However, the Cruise Lines International Association is the only organization that offers a cruise-focused certification program. CLIA members have a strong reputation as cruise sellers and take advantage of exclusive perks and discounts. Each of these memberships requires significant fees, a large volume of sales, and proven experience in business. With a host agency, a small company can get all credentials immediately at a low price.

Services provided by host travel agencies besides accreditation

Sure enough, the use of an accreditation number is a major part of any host agency offering, which makes this scenario viable and win-win. As we mentioned before, working under the host umbrella guarantees low start-up costs, higher commissions and no hassles with getting and staying certified. But most host agencies have something more to offer to their agent network. The assortment of services differs from agency to agency, depending on the needs of target clients. However, the most common list includes the following opportunities.

Education and training

Almost all host agencies provide different types of training programs to both newbies and those already familiar with the travel business. New agents acquire general business knowledge and industry-specific information — like which supplier serves a particular destination. For experienced contractors, large host agencies offer continuing education, updates from suppliers, conferences, meetups, and more.

Bookkeeping and sales tracking

Often, a host agency takes the role of a part-time bookkeeper, managing commissions and taxes. An agent receives reports to track money earned and monitor business performance. Once a year, a host sends its clients a 1099 tax form.

Errors and Omissions (E&O) insurance

Errors and Omissions or E&O insurance is not something specific to the travel industry. It protects any service business from the costs of lawsuits brought for professional mistakes. It covers legal defense, court and administrative costs, settlements and judgments. Does any travel agency need such protection? Yes, since everybody makes errors and their consequences may be wallet-busting. Many host agencies offer contractors to join their insurance policy rather than obtain a separate policy. Of course, this insurance policy only applies to bookings made under the host’s accreditation number.

Marketing programs and sales opportunities

The biggest challenge newbies face is promoting their services. That’s why travel hosts typically arrange marketing programs for travel agencies. These programs embrace training, courses, marketing materials and technologies to build a business. Also, large suppliers often use host agencies to promote their products, and small agents can take great advantage of these partner programs.

Lead generation

Some big host agencies advertise their lead generation programs. Typically, they provide a technology that automatically matches affiliated agents to consumer requests based on niche, expertise, and other metrics. This way agents can get new clients and earn higher incomes.

Technology solutions

To run a travel business you need a variety of digital tools. And host agencies do their best to equip their agents with necessary programs. The software package may include

• CRM system,
• accounting software,
• email and social media marketing software,
• a lead generation engine,
• booking tools, and
• a consumer-faced website.

So, that’s what host agencies usually do: provide its affiliates with all necessary credentials, expertise, resources, support, and technologies to run a travel business. Does it mean that the first host you come across will perfectly cover your needs? Of course not. When digging into details, it appears that host agencies differ in many ways from sales volume and a niche they focus on to the share of commissions offered. Which leads us to the next question: How do you select the right option?

Top host travel agency review

According to FindaHostTravelAgency.com , the platform matching travel professionals with hosts based on 16 filters, the top recommended host agencies in 2020 are:

• Avoya Travel ,
• Travel Planners International (TPI) ,
• Nexion Travel Group , and
• Outside Agents .

Top host travel agencies comparison

We’ll take a quick peek at what they offer and how each of them stands out from the other hosts.

Avoya Travel: AmEx representative with focus on technologies and lead generation

Available services

• educational programs
• a consumer-facing website
• lead generation
• a CRM system
• marketing tools
• commission tracking and performance reports
• a cruise and tour booking engine

Not offered

• E&O insurance
• large variety of air and hotel booking options

Avoya Travel is one of the largest leisure travel sellers with more than 50 years of history. Not specially focusing on air, car, and hotel products, the company offers them mostly as a part of their cruise, tour, and resort vacation packages. Avoya heavily invests in new technologies, providing its affiliates with a consumer website and Agent Power platform that combines a CRM system, marketing tools, a dashboard with charts and reports on performance metrics, and a booking engine. It connects directly to suppliers’ systems, but in some cases the platform links to Sabre GDS via an API . The key feature of Avoya is its lead generation program called Live Leads and designed to send new clients directly to affiliates 24/7. Keep in mind, though, that when you take a lead from Avoya, the host takes a larger part of the commission (70 percent) and you receive only 30 percent. As an American Express travel representative, the company offers all AmEx exclusive benefits. Agents may earn Membership Rewards Points and use the Pay with Points option to buy hotel reservations, cruises, and more.

Travel Planners International: exclusive support for newcomers

• accounting software
• booking engine connected to all major GDSs
• consumer-facing website

TPI positions itself as a marketing and support agency for new and experienced travel professionals. It is proud of the fact that over 40 percent of their affiliates joined the host when they were novices. For the first 12 months, the special Agent Engagement Department takes care of newcomers, counseling them on any question. TPI doesn’t offer live leads — instead, it focuses on training and marketing programs so that agents can more easily find customers themselves. A member of the Ensemble Travel Group, TPI gives access to high-tier commissions, perks, promos, and advertising goods from 380 preferred suppliers. The affiliates log into the Agent Portal with all marketing materials, email and accounting software, and a booking tool, enabling them to work with Amadeus, Sabre, and Travelport GDSs. The Agent Portal provided by Ensemble is integrated with the CRM back office system, launched by TPI.

Nexion Travel Group: one-stop-shop for leisure and corporate travel professionals

• sales and commission tracking
• non-GDS booking engine
• access to major GDSs

Nexion Travel Group is a part of Internova Travel Group (ex-Travel Leaders Group), a global network representing over 65,000 travel agents. This affiliation results in a wide selection of travel offers and top-tier commissions from car, hotel, flight, cruise, and insurance suppliers. Nexion has different membership plans for newcomers, experienced professionals, multi-agent companies, and corporate travel businesses. All the members get a free consumer-facing website, a range of administrative and reporting tools, and access to the non-GDS booking engine called SNAP! Agents can also use the host’s credentials to shop travel products via Amadeus, Sabre, Apollo, and Worldspan.

Outside Agents: family atmosphere and the biggest possible commission share

• groups promotion tool
• booking engine for cruise and air

A family-owned business, Outside Agents give their members direct access to owners and travel experts who provide one-on-one guidance and support. This personal approach sets the company apart from its rivals. Besides, the host charges no start-up fees and returns to agents up to 95 percent of commissions earned. The Agent Portal offered by the host includes live chats with the agent community, a knowledge base of more than 500 trainings, and access to travel suppliers. It also provides a prebuilt customizable website with an integrated booking engine for cruise and air tickets. Other technologies designed for agents are a client management platform and groups promotion tool to facilitate group trips.

From multiple choices to one possible option

Nine times out of ten, travel agents change  hosts several times before finding the suitable company to stay with it for years and even decades. Anyway, the most important part of the selection process is understanding your requirements. Once you clearly identify them, it will be much easier to boil down endless options to just a few and finally to the only possible candidate.

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What You Need to Know About Travel Host Agencies

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Why choose a Host Agency platform? Host Agencies began as a way to assist travel agents after 9-11, when many travel agents went out of business and needed a place to call home. While most Host Agencies started with good intent, through the years greed stepped in. The information in this article is based on an all-around examination of all host agencies.

Popular Host Agencies include Avoya, Outside Agents, Nexion, Oasis and Liberty Travel . Travel franchises are also on the rise, i.e. Travel Leaders, Cruise Planners, Dream Vacations.

A Host Agencies Role

Host Agencies are supposed to help agents get the best deals and rates, teach them how to invest in marketing, and much more. But soon after signing a contract with a Host Agency, many agents soon found out that things were a little different than what was initially promised.

First, it’s important to understand that Host Agencies are not travel agencies or travel suppliers. So, what exactly is it that a host agency does then? Everything an aspiring travel agent can do on their own. Most host agencies claim to offer the training, marketing, and even access to suppliers for more and better networking opportunities. But any potential travel agent who has the drive to succeed in the travel niche can do this themselves.

What Host Agencies Do

Host agencies charge travel agents set up fees, monthly fees, and percentage fees. Average percentage fee? A whopping 20%. Make a sale and 20% of your commission is gone right off the top. Average monthly fees are around $50. And this is off just one booking. Long term fees add up – $2000 in monthly commissions quickly becomes $1550. Over one year this amounts to $5400 in fees!

Travel agents who start their own agency get to keep these monies vs. paying a host agency fees.

It’s the Same Testament

This testament is just one of many similar Hosting Agency stories heard from travel agents who joined without first realizing all of the details attached. INTELETRAVEL “Worked for1 year, never got leads. Split was 70% their favor, I never made top commissions. No continuing education as promised. If we left then goodbye to any commissions already earned. Then I found TASK LIVE. Thanks, Tammy! Keisha Lawrence – A Dream Travel Agency

Starting Your Own Travel Agency!  

Starting your own travel agency is the best way for you to find the success you’re looking for. Setting up E & O insurance for @ $230 a year is required, as well as getting a CLIA Membership at $115 a year. Some states require a Seller of Travel, so another $300 per year, if applicable. Free websites are available with Agent Studio. Any commissions you make are now 100% yours!

Being in charge of your own business is necessary if you truly want success. Helping agents who want to create a successful travel business is important to me and that’s why I’m always available for upcoming travel agents who need any assistance. Feel free to contact me with any questions, anytime.

Ready to take control of your travel agency career? Now is the time!

Tammy Levent founder of Travel Agent Success Kit (T.A.S.K)

image source: Copyright: <a href=’https://www.123rf.com/profile_netsay’>netsay / 123RF Stock Photo</a>

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Travel Planners International

Support hours

Company details, program details, pricing & commission.

Technology & Tools

About travel planners international.

We know exactly how hard-charging, passionate, and high-energy you are because you’re just like us, obsessed with bringing the world closer through travel – and with everything we do, YOU and your business are in our minds.

Your brand, business, and identity are celebrated and supported throughout the lifecycle of your agency.

• From day one in the industry, when training, community, and guidance are crucial, we ensure you are heading in the right direction.
• Scaling your business and growing your agency (by bringing on your own advisors) is easier when you have our online education options and fellow Agency Builders community.
• And finally, when you start looking at ways to retire, we’re there for you to connect, guide, and toast your success as you make your decisions.

Ok, so let’s talk about what we INCLUDE in your fee.

• Robust proprietary CRM tied to our back office and accounting tools – Data for days to help you manage your business
• Email marketing program with UNLIMITED contacts for you to craft your own or grab one of our emails
• AXUS Itinerary builder and Travel 42 Program
• Marketing Asset Databank: chock-full of videos, social graphics, and images to help you market your business.
• Advisor Portal that you can access on the go with its mobile responsive design
• Point and click air, car, and hotel booking engine
• And double-dipping your opportunities

You see, agencies who belong to a HOST partnered with a Consortia grow their businesses exponentially, all while maintaining control of their business.  With Signature Travel Network as our consortia, our advisors double-dip all day long!

• Double the sales “exclusive” opportunities 
• Double the group space – WE SHARE OUR TC’s 
• Double the travel partner support – build additional relationships at a deeper level
• Double the marketing options 

When you compare host agencies, you’ll see we rank high in support, our knowledgeable community, and our family-feel. Still being family-owned since 1988, you can feel the commitment we have to our TPI Team Members with tenures from 5 to 27 years with the family. Partner with us, and you are automatically adopted into our TPI Rockstar Family. Our Facebook forums are extremely active, always buzzing with questions, comments, suggestions, and ideas. Not only that, but our fun-loving TPI Team is always ready to help you out with whatever you need. We’ve also got you covered with 24/7 support from our community of solo entrepreneurial Rockstars and Agency Owners.

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Want to be an instant travel agent? Beware!

"BE A PART OF AMERICA'S FASTEST GROWING INDUSTRY — Earn thousands of dollars a month — from your home — selling travel!!!!"

You can find ads like that everywhere from the telephone pole on your corner to your grocery store bulletin board to your daily newspaper.

While you may find these ads appealing, especially if you can't work outside your home, proceed with caution. Not all work-at-home opportunities deliver on their promises. As a matter of fact, most don't. And that's especially true in travel.

In the past, the "standard" get-rich-quick schemes involved stuffing envelopes, assembling crafts, or medical billing. But today, it seems that travel opportunities are fast climbing to the top of the list.

Three years ago, I wrote a column on travel scams and "Becoming A Travel Agent" was in the top five. Unfortunately, things have not changed.

Each month, I get 10 or 12 emails inviting me to participate in some new travel scheme. Very few, if any, are legitimate. Consumers deceived by these ads have lost thousands of dollars, in addition to their time and energy.

Some are "travel clubs" where you pay a membership fee for "discounted" travel, but I would like to focus on the new scourge of the industry — the "Business Opportunity."

Most of these "opportunities" are nothing more than Multi Level Marketing (MLM) which, as an industry, has very few success stories. They are reminiscent of Pyramid and Ponzi schemes where only the initial investors will make any substantial money. They claim that you can become a "credentialed" travel agent as soon as the check clears the bank. They promise upgrades, discounted air, free travel, and discounted travel for your friends and family. They claim you will be selling travel and earning a slice of the worldwide $525 billion dollar pie. (World Tourism Organization, 2003)

In reality, most times, you are buying a sub-site on a larger Web site and pressured to recruit more travel agents under you. There is very little travel sold by these "instant" agents. When you go to one of these sites like YTB , the focus is on joining the ranks and reaping the benefits. Notice the small link to actually book travel? These travel requests are not handled by the "agent" but by a call center. So, the consumer is once again duped. You think you're working with an agent or someone you know, but in reality it's a minimally-trained, cubicle-dwelling, order taker in a call center.

On several occasions, on a public travel forum , an advocate of the MLM business has argued the validity of his business. To me, all of the points seemed very Jim Jones-esque. When asked about the professionalism of these so-called agents, the reply was, "Who cares if they are "professionals" — people buy donuts from a donut shop."

On the "credentials," the reply was "Once the Affiliate Travel Agent or Platinum Travel Club Member creates the California minimum of $1,500 in travel sales, that person will receive our own official company issued Travel Seller ID Card that they may present to any travel vendor that will accept it." So, the credential is their own — and not that of professional organizations such as IATA , ARC , OSSN , CLIA , ARTA , or any of the other recognized travel industry associations.

When asked about the benefits of being involved with a MLM scheme, the response was very typical of those that are falling hard for the pitch:

"The best of all! Someone can become a Travel Agent instantly for anywhere from $99 a year to thousands of dollars — just depends — but — indeed, they are instantly a travel agent. No tests — no classes — no internships — nothing but paying a fee. Then they just need to get the word out and start booking travel. In the meantime, while waiting for customers to arrive — they can access Fam Trips and show their ID Card to Disney World and get in free. They can get upgrades at 4 and 5 star hotels by showing their ID card. The wonderful world of travel."

Um, Mr. Jones, can I please have another glass of that purple Kool-Aid? As a legitimate travel agent and a consumer, I am not feeling too comfortable with this philosophy. Are you?

Still not convinced? Take a look at this YouTube production from a pair of YTB travel agents. I am not rushing to the post office to mail them a check!

While travel certainly has some perks, most of them are going the way of the dinosaur. I am sure my pharmacist has some perks, but I don't see any "clubs" or "become a pharmacist" ads. Maybe travel is an easy target. Maybe the MLM outfits feel there are more gullible people that have an interest. Most true professionals are in the business for the love of the business. Ask anyone who has been around for more than a few years.

While these schemes pop up all the time and disappear as quickly as they appear, two of the biggest current offenders are YTB (Your Travel Biz) and World Ventures. Apparently, there is another "club" with an "insta-agent" option launching in October called eTrips Network.

All profess to offer wonderful discounts and perks that, in most instances, will never materialize. In addition they claim to provide "identification" cards that will reap steep discounts on personal travel. I have yet to speak with someone that can convincingly verify any of their claims. As my mother has always said, "If it's too good to be true, it probably is." For more enlightenment, visit the Web site scam.com and do a search for "travel opportunities."

That is not to say that one can't earn a living selling travel from home. There are thousands out there that do it every single day. With the growth of online sales and the reduction in brick-and-mortar storefronts, many of these displaced agents have gone home. You can, too.

There are many legitimate "hosts" that will facilitate this and work with you to achieve your goals. They will not fill you with false promises and inflated numbers. They are interested in selling travel. They work with the suppliers to build their collective businesses and relationships. Yes, they take some money from you, but you need to review the programs and decide what is best for you.

Some of the reputable host agencies are America's Vacations Center , Magellan 360 , Cruise Planners , Nexion , GTM Travel Group and Travel Planners International . But realistically, if you want to make any money in any industry, you must be willing to work at it. Period. If you want a good list of reputable companies to begin a career in travel, check out the list maintained by the industry trade publication Travel Trade .

12 Questions to ask before joining up for any travel opportunity:

• What is the initial fee?
• What is my bottom-line monthly cost?
• How often will I be paid?
• What percentage of my sales do you retain?
• How long have you been a host agency?
• Can you give me five members to contact for a reference?
• What professional affiliations do you hold as a host?
• What training do you offer? In house? Online? Phone? Mail?
• How long is the contract?
• Do I actually sell travel?
• Do I need my own insurance or am I covered under yours?
• Will you put these claims in writing?

No. 12 is the most important one.

You also might want to check out the company with your local consumer protection agency, state attorney general and the Better Business Bureau, not only where the company is located, but also where you live. These organizations can tell you whether they have received complaints about the work-at-home program that interests you.

But be wary: the absence of complaints doesn't necessarily mean the company is legitimate. Unscrupulous companies may settle complaints, change their names or move to avoid detection. I know of one company that was a refrigeration company before becoming a travel company.

And to the naysayers out there, I challenge you. If you can prove the claims of the riches promised, I will publicly eat crow in a future column. Just e-mail me some redacted documents — bank statements, monthly commission checks, etc. Go on, I dare you. I double-dog dare you! The ball is in your court.

But until then, my advice to the consumer and someone looking to get into this business can be summed up in one word: BEWARE!

John Frenaye is the president of JVE Group, Inc., a diversified company based in Annapolis, Md. With nearly ten years as a senior executive in the retail travel industry and a background in business management, he writes about the travel industry as an insider with an outsider's perspective. or visit his . Want to sound off about one of his columns? Try visiting

The Top Host Agencies for 2020 (Video) – Travel Professionals Guide to the Best of the Best

FindaHostTravelAgency.com Shares the Top Host Agencies for 2020 – Further Assisting in Connecting Travel Professionals to the Right Host Travel Agency

March 24th, 2020 – San Diego, CA – FindaHostTravelAgency.com has released a list of the Top  Host Travel Agencies of 2020. The 2020 Top Host Travel Agency video (below) highlights Recommended Host Agencies on  FindaHostTravelAgency.com .

Each Recommended Host Agency in the 2020 Top  Host Travel Agency video represent credible options for Travel Professionals searching for a Host Agency partner. All are extremely reputable and show a strong focus on providing the support and services to enable their networks of Independent Agents to build and grow their travel businesses.

“This production gives Travel Professionals an in-depth look into the Top Host Travel Agencies for 2020 and allows them to easily learn, connect and grow their business with the right Host Agency for their goals,” shared Andy Ogg, CTIE – Co-Owner of FindaHostTravelAgency.com.

FindaHostTravelAgency.com offers a complete listing of available Host Agencies on the site, as well as over 2,000  Host Agency Reviews  from credible Travel Agents who have  or are currently working with a specific Host Agency. “ We manually vet every single one of our review submissions ensuring that they are not only credible, but relevant and timely to further assist Travel Professionals when researching their possible Host Agency partners,” said Andy Ogg, CTIE.

On top of the 2020 Top Host Agency video, FindaHostTravelAgency.com also offers a highly downloaded Host Agency Checklist , geared to help Travel Professionals stay organized while conducting their Host Agency Search.

Additionally, the site offers an extensive Filtering system for things such as if leads are offered, consortia memberships, association memberships, years in business, annual sales volume, education programs, website tools and much more, Travel Professionals looking for a Host Agency can easily refine their search in minutes, not hours.

On top of the useful Host Agency Filter Function, there are useful and informative  articles  published frequently on FindaHostTravelAgency.com to further educate and empower Travel Professionals to find the perfect fit with a Host Travel Agency.

FindaHostTravelAgency.com is one of many industry tools available through Ogg Marketing Group to advocate Travel Professionals and help them become more successful.

Host Agencies that would like to update or add their profile to the FindaHostTravelAgency.com site can visit www.FindaHostTravelAgency.com to do so. If a Host Agency Profile already exists for your business, please contact Andy Ogg for details on how to successfully access the Host Agency Portal to update your profile information.

2020 Top Host Agencies Outlined:

Avoya travel, travel planners international, nexion travel group, outside agents, uniglobe travel center, oasis travel network  , cruise planners, dugan’s travels, mtravel hosting services, cruises inc , dream vacations , incentive connection travel, about the ogg family:.

The family business is owned and operated by Tom Ogg, Joanie Ogg, CTC, MCC, and Andy Ogg, CTIE. On top of resourceful books for Travel Professionals, the Ogg family also owns and operates:

FindaHostTravelAgency.com

The premier platform to connect Travel Professionals to the Host Travel Agency that fits their needs. On top of 16 filters to narrow the search, FindaHostTravelAgency.com holds over 2,050 reviews from vetted Travel Professionals regarding listed Host Travel Agencies.

TravelProfessionalNEWS.com

A monthly Digital Magazine delivered right to a Travel Professional ’ s inbox. With informative and helpful articles each month, this publication is a tool to assist in growing a Travel Professional ’ s business. On top of the Digital Magazine, TravelProfessionalNEWS.com offers the latest news and happenings in the Travel Industry in an easy to navigate and enjoyable experience.

HomeBasedTravelAgent.com

Since 1988 this has been an invaluable resource with extensive information for new agents wanting to enter the industry. The Ogg ’ s latest books are considered “ must reads” for many home based travel agents. They are used by many colleges and universities as texts and are included in the Travel Institute ’ s TRIPKit for new agents.

TravelProfessionalCommunity.com

A Social engagement community for established Travel Professionals only. With over 15,300 vetted Travel Professional members, this Social Community is the “ Go To” site for support, networking, and information. It ’ s FUN and FREE for Travel Professionals to join and begin engaging with colleagues from around the globe.

2020 Top Host Agency Video Link:

Https://youtu.be/i_wdhqfueo0.

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