How to Become a Travel Agent in 24 Hours

How to Become a Travel Agent in 24 Hours

by: Brian Allen

The travel industry has been going through some significant changes over the last few years. Mom and Pop travel agencies are quickly being replaced by online booking engines like Orbitz or Travelocity.

But there is one problem: 80% of all vacations are taken at the recommendation of a friend. Now of course this is a good thing, except that Orbitz and Travelocity don't have very many friends.

The travel industry came up with a good hybrid solution: give the consumer a chance to partner with these big booking engines and become a travel agent themselves, with all the benefits and none of the drawbacks, so they can refer their friends and family and everyone wins. This new type of travel agent is known as an Associate Travel Agent, or ATA for short.

ATA's get all the benefits of a normal travel agent, such as commissions, free upgrades and discounts, and FAM Trips (more on FAM Trips in a minute, they're fabulous!). But ATA's don't work at a traditional travel agency, don't work set hours, and don't have to go to years of expensive schooling to get their credentials. You can literally become an ATA in a single day, and you still get the same IATA and CLIA ID card that gets you all the same benefits.

There are lots of books and websites on how to become a travel agent, and they are well worth looking into. The benefits are absolutely incredible, not the least of which are lots of vacations and a good income.

I'm going to start with my favorite benefit: FAM Trips. These are "familiarization trips" that are hosted and subsidized by tour operators, government tourist boards, and private resorts at a fraction of the normal cost. They want you to come on the trip and have such a good time that you go home raving about it and send all of your friends, family, and clients back at the normal rate (remember, 80% of all travel occurs exactly that way).

In a word, FAM Trips are unbelievable. Consider this one from FAM News: 10 days in China, including all accommodations, transfers, flights, an english speaking guide, most meals, and the royal treatment, all for $666! The airfare alone costs over $1,000. And because they want you to send your friends and clients on the same trip, it isn't a stripped down, no frills excursion at rat-infested motels. They pull out all the stops to make sure you have a great time and get back home raving about it to all your friends.

There are thousands of FAM's going on at any given time, all over the world. Some are simple, like a weekend ski trip in Colorado including 2 days of skiing and rentals, a 2 hour lesson, meals, 3 nights in a nice lodge, and entertainment for only $199, and some go all out, like 11 days in Morrocco for $1,400.

FAM Trips aren't the only benefit of being a travel agent. You can also earn big commissions on travel that you book, and you're given a website to send people to so that when they order their travel you get the same commission as if you'd booked it yourself. You can also refer someone who can become an ATA themselves and you earn a $40 bonus, and can earn bonuses and commissions on what they produce, kind of like building your own virtual travel agency.

Everyone who likes to travel and could use a little more money should look into the opportunity of becoming an Associate Travel Agent provides. For many people its the ideal lifestyle, combining the perfect blend of freedom and travel with money and business.

About the Author

Brian Allen is an Associate Travel Agent living in St. George, Utah. He helps others learn about becoming a travel agent and offers consulting for maximum success as a travel agent. He can be reached at http://www.TravelAgentToday.com.

How To Be Safe While Traveling

How To Be Safe While Traveling

by: Scott Flint

The most dangerous time in your life, when you are most likely to be attacked is when you are traveling in an unfamiliar area.

Tourists are the favorite prey of the goblins of the world for the following reasons:

They are easy to spot. Tourists make the mistake of not blending in, wearing clothes that stand out. Shorts in a climate where everyone else is wearing pants. Brand-new clothes with bright colors. A camera around the neck, and a generally lost look on the face.

They're not armed. It is illegal to carry most weapons on common carriers such as airliners. Goblins know this and purposefully go after the tourist.

Tourists make the mistake of flaunting wealth. They wear expensive jewelry, and carry large amounts of cash.

False sense of confidence. When people travel from developed countries such as Japan, the United States or England to third world countries they incorrectly assume the country they are visiting has the same overall safety as the developed country. Those tourists are often unpleasantly surprised at how dangerous the country is that they are visiting.

Tourists are assumed to be rich. People in most third world countries do not have the money to travel. So they think that anyone who can travel must be rich. They often resent that supposed wealth, and are willing to take drastic action to take it from tourists.

So, what is the answer? Never travel to new areas? No, that would be an awful way to live your life. Travel is fun and exciting, and no matter what the possible threats are, you shouldn't let a few dirt-bags ruin your fun.

The key is to avoid trouble by not standing out as a lost, vulnerable tourist.

Learn about the area you will be traveling to. The more familiar you are with the new area, the more confident you will be as you stroll down the street. Use the Internet to get maps of the area, and information on the sights you want to visit. Find out as much as you can about the culture of the people you will be visiting. Your primary goal is to blend in.

Find out what people usually wear in the area you will be visiting.

Hopefully you will already have similar clothes. It is best not to wear brand new clothes.

Go with a group if possible. There is strength in numbers for tourists.

Being with a group is especially important if it is your first time to the new country. A tour group is a great way to go because the tour guide will only take you to areas that are "safe" for tourists. Do not venture out on your own, unless you know for certain the area you are going to visit is relatively safe. Stay in the neighborhoods that are set up for tourists.

Consider arming yourself with weapons that can be carried on common carriers. A good solid three foot walking stick is an example. A goblin would think twice before trying anything with you carrying such a weapon.

Don't carry cash. Use credit cards, or travelers checks. If they are stolen, you can get them replaced. If you normally carry your wallet in your back pocket, change it to your front pocket. Pickpockets have a very hard time getting your wallet from the front. Carry a little extra cash in your sock or shoe, just in case you need some emergency money.

Don't tempt fate. Even if you think you are in a very safe area, do not leave valuables out in plain sight. Some desperate people might attempt to kill you in order to get your valuables.

Whenever you travel you must continually be in a heightened state of awareness. If you slip out of that aware state, you could find yourself in serious danger.

By using the aforementioned concepts you should be able to have a safe, enjoyable trip with little chance of being attacked.

This article was written by Scott Flint a 5th degree Black Belt with 27 years of experience teaching Self-Defense.

This article is from the Travel Safe chapter of Scott's Self-Defense book titled: Waking The Tiger Within--How To Be Safe From Crime

You can order this book at: http://SelfDefenseManual0.tripod.com

This is a 136 page comprehensive Self Defense Manual. This book sells at the site for only $9.95 25% off of the retail price.

You can contact Scott Flint at WakingTheTiger@yahoo.com

Scott Flint, a 5th degree Black Belt, holds the title of Master Instructor, has taught over 3500 students during 27 years. Has learned from experience exactly what women, men, and children must know to be safe in all environments.

Scott is also Senior Chief Instructor of West-Wind Kung-Fu Schools in California. He is Director of the Taipei Chinese Kung-Fu Association United States Of America Branch.

Besides traditional Kung-Fu, Scott teaches a course in Personal Protection using the Combat Pistol

wakingthetiger@yahoo.com

House Sitters Are Coming to the Rescue of Many Travellers

House Sitters Are Coming to the Rescue of Many Travellers

by: Ian White

Everyone seems to have accepted the fact that the days of leaving your door unlocked are over. The rise of crime is affecting everyone, not just those who live in the larger cities. In fact, homes in rural areas are being targeted like never before--due to the opportunity a secluded area provides to the burglar. Statistics tell us that theft of property is among the highest of all personal crimes committed in the United States. While many families do install some type of house alarm, this alone does not bring complete peace of mind. Home alarm devices can be disabled by a crafty intruder.

These facts alone would explain why many people are turning to house sitting directories to help them find a house sitter when they need to be away from home for an extended time. The presence of a human is the main deterrent to a burglar. When you have a house sitter come into your home to live while you are away, you can almost be guaranteed your home will not be targeted by a thief or vandals.

While safety is the number one reason people are seeking out house sitters, they are quickly finding there are many other added benefits. First and foremost, they are saved the cost and worry of boarding their pets while they are away. Pets are happier when they are left in their own environment and kept on their usual routines. Many pet owners find they are not able to enjoy their vacation when they are forced to leave their pets at a kennel. For the individual or family who has to relocate for months at a time, having a house sitter greatly reduces the stress upon a family pet, and the money that is saved from boarding fees can be astounding. A house sitter can see to the many diverse needs of your pet such as feeding, walking, grooming, playing and health monitoring.

People that do have to be away from home for an extended time are finding it is much easier to have a house sitter come and live in their home--rather than renting out their house or imposing on family or friends to come by to tend to the day to day issues. House sitters can do tasks such as checking mail, routine lawn maintenance, home repair, and more. Having a house sitter can bring assurance that when you return from your travels you will still find healthy house plants or gardens--and that your goldfish is still alive! Your house sitter saves you the expense of arranging for pool and lawn maintenance while you are away, as well. House sitters are also invaluable if a major problem arises within you home, such as a leaking hot water heater or storm damage.

So, how does one go about finding a house sitter? The safest way to locate a house sitter is to go through a house sitting directory. Here you can find a house sitter which can meet your needs. Standard guidelines for a house sitter generally include them taking responsibility of your home, pets and property in exchange for rent free accommodations. Other individual needs can also be added to your house sitters guidelines such as arranging for them to supervise a major home repair while you are away.

You may be wondering who actually does house-sitting? You may be surprised to learn there are many individuals who become house sitters because it gives them the opportunity to save money on their living expenses. This enables them to save money for their own homes. Other house sitters may be retirees who are looking for a change of environment after years of work, or they wish to relocate to your area to be near relatives. A few individuals who are temporarily relocated due to their employment may also look into house sitting. House sitters are everyday people just like you and me.

It is usually standard that house sitters will be responsible for paying the utility bills while you are away. This takes the worry off a home owner who is concerned about coming home to a large phone or electric bill. All other bills, such as taxes, mortgage and home insurance is still the responsibility of the owner.

When you contact a house-sitting directory you will have access to their data base of registered house sitters. Registration for home owners is usually free with most directories. You privacy is assured, and your personal information will not be given out to any prospective house sitter. You alone decide when you are comfortable with a house sitter and are open to having him or her know your personal information.

When selecting your house sitter, you should only choose one that can meet all of your criteria. Once you have narrowed down your choices, you will be given references for the candidates. This is an important part of the process when selecting a house sitter. Many times you will be able to talk with other home owners who may have used this individual as a house sitter in the past.

Once you have decided upon a possible candidate, you will want to interview them. During the interview you will want to let them know what you desire from them when they are living at your home. This is when you can tell them about your pets, home maintenance such as a pool, mowing or shovelling snow. This is also when you can get to know the personality and character of your prospective sitter. You need to be assured you are having an animal lover come into your home if you have pets. It would be unreasonable to have someone come into your home who is allergic to cats if you have one for a pet. Also, if someone is fearful of animals, your dog may not get as much interaction as they need.

When you have chosen the house sitter you are comfortable with, you should have a contract drawn up. This contract can be obtained through most house sitting matching services, or you may prefer to have your family attorney draw it up. This contract needs to be as detailed as possible. It should thoroughly explain your expectations for home maintenance, pet care, emergency contact information, etc. If you would like to have a major home project completed, such as having someone come in to clean your gutters, or replace your windows while you are away, you should have all the details included in your contract.

It is advised that you have a face to face interview with your house sitter, or at least have them arrive a few days early so you can show them particular things about your home. While they are there, you can familiarize him or her with aspects of your home, such as window that likes to stick, or how to program the alarm system. This is also a great time for your house sitter to interact and make friends with your pets. They can see the routine of your pet throughout the day. This will help them tremendously. For instance, if you have a dog that does nothing but sleep all day behind the recliner, your house sitter will know this is normal and not a sign of illness. However, if you have a dog that bounces off the ceiling and he or she is laying around in a stupor all day, your house sitter will know this is out of character for that particular pet.

The peace of mind a house sitter can bring to you when you are away from home is priceless. Using a house sitting matching service is also the safest and speediest route to take when looking for a house sitter. Both the home owner and house sitter benefit by these matching services. The sitters can enjoy being in a new area while saving money for school or a home. Retirees are particularly pleased to be chosen as house sitters. Becoming a house sitter allows them an opportunity to travel to a place where their fixed income may not have afforded them to visit otherwise. Home owners can be assured they are not imposing on a family, friend or neighbor to watch over their home. The comfort level that a house sitter can bring to a pet is also a major plus. House sitters not only help deter your home from being the target of a burglary, but they step into your shoes and take care of the small things on a day to day basis.

About the Author

Author Ian White is founder of http://www.housecarers.com/ House Sitting Directory. Visit Housecarers House sitting directory today.

Registration is free for homeowners (and they'll never have to rely on cousin Eddie again.)

Holland Travel - Amsterdam, Van Gogh, Anne Frank

Holland Travel - Amsterdam, Van Gogh, Anne Frank

by: Rick Chapo

Holland certainly has a reputation with travelers. Known for having a very liberal attitude on social issues such as prostitution and drugs, the reputation is not always deserved. Yes, marijuana and prostitution is legal, but there is so much more to the country. Many look at Amsterdam as Holland, but visitors know there is much more. If you desire to travel to Holland, also known as the Netherlands, don't miss these attractions.

Amsterdam

Simply put, Amsterdam has something for everyone. The city is an incredibly beautiful collection of old world European architecture elegantly partitioned by canals. In truth, the city is built on roughly 90 small islands, although you can hardly tell. Transportation is best undertaken on foot or by bicycle. With a cool climate, you'll barely break a sweat.

Contrary to popular opinion, Amsterdam is not just a city of liberal policies. Yes, coffee bars sell things other then just coffee. Yes, there are women in windows that are awfully friendly. Still, there is so much more to experience in the city.

Van Gogh Museum

The Rijksmuseum Vincent van Gogh houses the world's largest collection of the work of Vincent van Gogh. From his early work, the museum contains 700 artistic works and 850 letters. After moving to Paris in 1886, van Gogh entered an impressionist period, of which the museum contains a large collection. Perhaps the most interesting thing about the collection is the organization. The entire collection is arranged chronologically from the first to last work. As you walk, you can clearly see the evolution of this master's skill.

Anne Frank House

Who hasn't read the intense diary of Anne Frank? Hiding from the Nazis, she and her family lived in an annexed section of an apartment in Amsterdam for two years. In 1957, the house was donated to the Anne Frank Foundation and turned into a museum. A visit will send chills through your spine. The museum contains films, the annexed area and the original notes of Anne Frank. A must see for anyone traveling to Amsterdam.

Beyond Amsterdam

For those needing a break from Amsterdam, there is much to be seen in Holland. If you are looking for a color explosion, consider taking the bulb cycling tour out of Noordwijk. Windmills your thing? Head to the De Zaan district to see them in action. Prefer to spend a night in a castle? Try the Castle Hotel Engelenburg, which even lets you ruin a good walk by playing golf.

Travel to Holland and you won't regret it. Whether you want to "investigate" the countries liberal policies or simply bike through fields of tulips, Holland will satisfy.

About the Author

Rick Chapo is with Nomad Journals - Preserve the experience with writing journals for your travels. Read more articles and travelogues on NomadJournalTrips.com.

Historical Overview for Travelers to Armenia

History Of Travel Luggage

by: Chris Vorelli

From the beginning to today! Travel luggage is an important part of every traveler's wardrobe. There are many models, sizes, styles, colors, materials and prices associated with the luggage currently on the market. There are even vintage and collectible luggage pieces available! Whether you are going to be gone for a day, a month or a year, you will most likely need to help of luggage to keep your items together and organized. Travel luggage is designed for professionals, sportsmen, men, women, kids and even animals! There are a ton of models that can be bought today, but in the old days, the choices weren't as plentiful.

For as long as man has traveled, there has been a need to take items with them. Christopher Columbus would have carried a trunk/chest that housed his clothing and navigation products. In those days, the trunk was the most popular form of luggage. Made of woods like oak, pine and cedar, the trunks were fashionable and functional. There were even trunks made of animal hides, like deer, horses and even cows. The materials used for these trunks allowed them to last for a long time. Trunks were even accented with ornaments, like locks and nails; making them even more appealing. The majority of trunks made during this time in history have gone on to become family heirlooms and even collector's items. Though they are still made, the trunks have been replaced with suitcases and totes.

Manufactured in many countries, you should have no trouble finding the perfect travel luggage piece to carry your items. Backpacks, suitcases, hard side luggage, tote bags, duffels, briefcases, cosmetic totes, computer cases and handbags are all designed to make your traveling experience a little less stressful. Whether you are going to fly to Europe or spend a week in a secluded cabin, putting your items into a suitcase or other form of luggage will give you peace of mind.

Made of many materials, features of travel luggage include: wheels, zipped inside pockets, water resistance, lock and even extra storage space. Today, travel luggage sets are offered in many colors and prices. There are also vintage sets that can still be bought! Online, you can easily locate great discounts and huge luggage selections. If you are unsure as to what type of luggage would be your best choice, there are even places to read consumer reviews. Taking the ideas of yesterday and adding technology of today, travel luggage offers consumers the chance to organize and easily tote any size or style of luggage. The next time you need to travel, say a little thanks to our ancestors for passing down such a practical, important product!

About the Author: Chris Vorelli is a successful freelance writer, providing useful articles and info on where to buy discount luggage and tote bags. Top names include, Samsonite luggage, Delsey, Travelpro and Atlantic luggage http://www.luggage-n-tote-bags-guide.com

Source: www.isnare.com

Hilton Head Island Travel Guide

Hilton Head Island Travel Guide

by: Jeff Palmer

Hilton Head Island Travel Guide By Jeff Palmer

Hilton Head Island was the first ecologically-planned destination in The United States. Light pollution ordinances are in effect across the island to protect the habits of the loggerhead turtles which sometimes confuse the lights of dwellings and street lights with that of the ocean. Protections are in place to protect the beautiful live oaks and palmetto trees which cover the island. Salt marshes, beaches and lagoons remain in pristine condition across the island. While modern conveniences such as shopping malls and five star hotels are widely available; care has been taken to blend these structures into the native ecology as much as possible.

The 2.5 million travelers who arrive annually to Hilton Head Island find an infinite variety of activities and reasons for visiting. Whether they are searching for a world class golf vacation, relaxing on the miles of sandy beaches or enjoying the gentle sway of palm trees in unspoiled nature, a stay on Hilton Head Island is sure to pleasethe most discerning of vacationers.

Hilton Head Island is home to the Heritage Classic golf championship and the Celebrity golf tournament. With an average yearly temperature of 70 degrees, visitors to the island are sure to enjoy year round golf on any of the 24 golf courses located on Hilton Head. There are also another 40 golf courses to be found in thesurrounding area, just a short distance from the island.

Tennis enthusiasts can enjoy the many professional courts available on Hilton Head. With over 300 courts to chose from there is no shortage of playing opportunities. Professional tennis instructors are also available to those wishing to improve their games.

With over twelve miles of sandy beaches overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, water lovers will find that Hilton Head Island is a coastal paradise. Whether you just want to relax in the sun or try your hand at scuba diving, waterskiing or dolphin watching there's is something for everyone on the island. Fishing charters, kayak tours, wind-surfing, island cruises and all manner of water activities are available.

If you really want to see the island consider renting a bicycle from one of the numerous bike rental outfits.With miles of bike paths available, many of which take you through nature preserves, this is truly an enjoyable way to experience the natural splendor of the island. At low tide, the beaches of Hilton Head make an excellent bike riding surface.

Over 250 restaurants of every price range and cuisine dot the island. Fresh seafood abounds. From five star formal restaurants to fast food and everything in between, every taste and budget is catered to here.

There are a variety of accommodations available in several price ranges. From hotels to villas, condos to timeshares, you are sure to find lodging which fits your taste and budget.

If you a considering a vacation which includes gorgeous weather, miles of beaches, world class golf, entertainment and dining then explore the many offerings available on Hilton Head Island. For a complete directory of information about the island including accommodations, golf and dining visit http://www.hiltonheadislander.com

About the Author

Jeff Palmer is a web designer and search engine optimization specialist living in South Carolina Hiltonheadislander.com

HeroVacations.com Adds Numerous Golf & Travel Packages to We

HeroVacations.com Adds Numerous Golf & Travel Packages to We

by: Larry Davis

HeroVacatons.com has recently added an extensive array of golf and travel packages to its Web site. There are numerous destinations and packages from which to choose.

Orlando, FL (PRWEB) May 9, 2005 -- HeroVacations.com, a Web site that serves the leisure and group travel needs of the associates of the Department of Homeland Security, has recently added an extensive array of golf and travel packages to its Web site through its affiliate partners. The all-inclusive golf packages feature destinations that cater to the avid golf enthusiast as well as to the golfer who just wants to get away for the weekend, play a little golf and spend some time with family. There are numerous destinations and packages from which to choose.

"This is one of many enhancements that will occur over the next few months as the Web site develops into a 'one stop' shop for our targeted audiences," states

President Larry Davis.

The site currently offers discount rates on an array of travel necessities such as hotel rooms (more than 16,000 in 85 countries worldwide), car rentals and airfare with all the major providers and air carriers and cruises on the top cruise lines in the market. As a bonus, Web users can build their own road trips up to within six hours of their homes, chose hundreds of campsites and even rent vacation homes in many countries.

HeroVacations.com also offers plenty of other travel packages for those who are more interested in relaxation. The site includes packages of all price points to more than 700 destinations in the United States, Europe the Caribbean and Mexico. Interestingly, many packages are available to cities that one may not necessarily think of at first but the price and inclusions make them quite attractive for even budget traveler.

Next on the agenda, states Davis, "is to add more aggressive travel specials to

the preferred destinations for our clientele. We expect to make an announcement soon regarding a partnership with a major hotel company to provide specials in these destinations. Additionally, plans include offering full ski packages in time for the winter ski season."

HeroVacations.com is a privately held marketing company that provides travel opportunities through affiliate partnerships and individual contracts. The principles have more than 75 years of experience in the travel industry. For more information, please visit http://www.herovacations.com.

About the Author

Larry Davis

President

407-737-3510

http://www.herovacations.com