A career in travel and tourism is an exciting one, no doubt! But, it is also a huge responsibility when you are asked to make arrangements for someone else’s dream vacation, whether it is a short trip to the mountains or a long-awaited destination excursion. You want it to be perfect for your client, just as they expect.
How do you get the best training in this field? If you want to become a travel and tourism expert, you will need to start from the beginning. As you complete high school, you may want to consider either of two options: First, if you would like to continue with a college education to earn a degree in travel and tourism, you may do so. Some colleges do offer associate and bachelor’s degrees in the travel or hospitality field, although, other core courses are required as well, taking you at least two to four years to achieve.
Secondly, in today’s world of modern technology, 100% online programs in travel and tourism are readily available and they only take you six months to a year to complete. You can work at your own pace and receive a career diploma to showcase your skills and knowledge. If you would like to go right to work, travel agencies do usually require some sort of training and your on-the-job experience, such as a reservation clerk or receptionist, will allow you to open your own business eventually, if you would like.
Coursework included in a career diploma certificate program may focus on travel industry computer programs, airline industry requirements, geography, corporate travel options and planning leisurely destination vacations, as well as, world culture, domestic and international travel, passport requirements and document regulations. You can also expect to learn how to create detailed itineraries and about air, railway and road travel, in addition to, the current trends in tourism and travel.
You will also focus on hospitality leadership and the business management aspect of travel, such as tourism marketing, administrative needs, calculating travel rates and package costs, as well as, effective customer service skills, crisis control and vendor relations. And perhaps most importantly, you will learn how to coordinate the perfect destination with your client’s desires.
Although not required, continued educational opportunities are a must, for travel industry airline and destination guidelines are constantly changing. Organizations such as, the Travel Institute and the American Association of Automobiles offer additional certifications to demonstrate your knowledge to prospective travelers. Additional certifications add to your credibility, therefore, increasing potential clients and commissions.
The day-to-day operations of a travel agency business may vary, however, through a career diploma program, you will be prepared for whatever is thrown your way. Extensive research and itinerary planning requires a majority of your time sitting in front of a computer. If you have a genuine love for travel and aspire to help others create memories that will last a lifetime, a career in travel and tourism is for you! Homebodies need not apply!
Get started today… if you are interested in this career field. We have compiled a list of our choices for the best Online Schools for Travel and Tourism programs.