Hospitality, Travel and Tourism Program: Career Facts - Travel Agent
Other Careers:
Culinary Arts
Specialist
Food Management Specialist
Hotel-Motel
Manager
What is a travel
agent?
Changing airfares and schedules, vacation packages, business/pleasure
trip combinations all make travel planning a challenge. Many
people turn to travel agents, who act as professional travel
consultants and make the best possible travel arrangements for them.
Travel agents give advice on destinations and make arrangements for
transportation, lodging, car rentals, tours, and recreation.
They help plan the right package or combination and advise on
weather conditions and tourist attractions. Agents provide
information on customs regulations, required identification papers,
and currency exchange for international travelers.
What types of skills are required?
Selling skills, patience, attention to detail, the ability to
multi-task and an ability to gain the confidence of clients are essential.
Computer skills are a must, as well as possessing a background in geography and
travel destinations, world customs, and intercultural communication.
Where are they employed?
Travel agents work for tourism bureaus, travel agencies, larger
corporations, and other similar institutions in both the private and
public sectors. About one in 10 are self-employed.
What degree is available?
An associate in business degree is offered in travel and tourism.
What is the salary range?
Locally, the salary median is about $24,700. Nationally, median
annual earnings are about $25,000.
