Travel Agent Chatter | Friday 15

Steph Lee co-hosts with Stephanie Gagnon of Just Perfect Travel. Check out the questions below, and then come and join us Friday at 12 pm CST for the podcast! Please submit your questions and sign up for reminders for the F15 here!I am thinking about trying to become a travel advisor as a side hustle/potential career change. But, with the way the world is right now… Travel bands, tariffs, impending USA recession… I'm wondering what the outlook actually is for someone trying to start a new career in this field? What are the real travel agents preparing for? Is it a good idea to get into this business while all of this political stuff is happening? — Madi D.I am in the final steps of picking a host agency.  My business is based out of the United States but my clients are from many different countries. I have a 16,000 person international reach and need to be able to service any client, regardless of where they are citizens.  I have been told, possibly erroneously, that I can only book clients that are US citizens due to the suppliers limitations.   Is this correct for most US host agencies?   If so, are there any host agencies that allow booking of non US citizens,  when my company is US based. —Apryl B. RESOURCES:➡️Protecting client payments: https://www.travelweekly.com/Mark-Pestronk/How-to-protect-client-payments➡️ Advice for traveling in fraught times: https://www.travelweekly.com/Arnie-Weissmann/Advice-for-traveling-in-fraught-times➡️ Just Perfect Travel, Stephanie’s agency!  https://www.justperfecttravelllc.com/➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 

Shayna Zand and Steph join forces with Cazavia Travel to host a special edition this week's Friday 15 to celebrate Earth Month. Cazavia’s host agency is Montecito Village Travel and you can check out their HAR profile HERE!  Also, we have a veritable barrage of questions this week, which you can read below, and then come and join us 12 pm CST for the podcast. Don't forget that you can submit questions and sign up for reminders for the F15 here!How can travel advisors influence client decisions without being pushy—especially when sustainability isn’t already a priority for the traveler?Can you share an example of how an advisor made a trip more meaningful or sustainable for a client, even if that wasn’t the client’s original goal?What role do travel advisors play in supporting local communities and economies through the trips they plan?What do you wish more people knew about the impact their travel decisions have on the destinations they visit? RESOURCES:➡️We have a great article as well on Supporting Clients Sustainable Travel, the green and red flags to look out for with suppliers specifically - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/supporting-clients-sustainable-travel-green-lights-and-red-flags➡️ Only a few weeks ago, we partnered with Tourism Cares to publish an article on how sustainable and meaningful travel can grow your impact and business - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/how-sustainable-and-meaningful-travel-can-grow-your-impact-and-business➡️ 200+ Travel agent rates! https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-rates ➡️ We have an article on 5 simple ways travel agencies can support sustainable travel with a checklist if you’re just getting started - https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/sustainable-travel-checklist➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 

Shayna Zand and Steph join forces with Lori Speers to host this week's Friday 15. Lori's host agency is Levarte Travel and you can check out their HAR profile HERE!  our co-host! Also, we have a veritable barrage of questions this week, which you can read below, and then come and join us 12 pm CST for the podcast. Don't forget that you can submit questions and sign up for reminders for the F15 here!1.   Why is it so hard to narrow down a host on a general niche (like Mexico AIs)? 2.    What's the deal with TA discounts being earned + you not usually being able to tap into them until you reach certain sales levels? 3.    Why don't TAs necessarily have access to exclusive discounts for trips for their clients?4.    What about after hours support for traveling clients not being on the host side, but rather the supplier's?5.    Are air/car rentals maybe worth my time due to low commissions?RESOURCES:➡️Guide to choosing a travel niche. https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/find-a-travel-niche➡️ Travel Agent FAM Trips: What They Are + How to Find Them + Etiquette (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-fam-trip)➡️ 200+ Travel agent rates! https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-rates ➡️ What is a travel consortium? (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-travel-consortia-travel-coops)➡️ All about preferred suppliers in the travel industry. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-preferred-supplier)➡️Host Agency Review’s Travel Agency Software Profiles https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 

Our Managing Director Shayna Zand takes the helm this week at the Friday 15, with Connie Miller of Montecito Village Travel as our co-host! Check out Montecito's profile here and the questions below that Shayna and Conni will tackle this Friday at 12 pm CST.Don't forget that you can submit questions and sign up for reminders for the F15 here: https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 1. Do you really need an Identification number to be seen as a travel agency.. or can I essentially just book someone's trip for them? I’m not sure I want to find a host, I want to start my own business, but I don't know if that would be beneficial without having a number because I don't know if I would get the best discounts that way. I would love to just book people's trips, any advice? I'm fine booking the trip and just charging a fee without receiving all the extra commissions.. I just want to know if that is something I am technically allowed to do. I also want to know would it benefit the client though.2. How does a newbie travel advisor become a sub-agent? And where can a newbie find a mentor?                           3. When changing Host agencies, is it possible to transfer clients and vendor information without doing it individually? As a courtesy, should I tell the agency that I am moving on to another agency?RESOURCES:➡️ We have an article about What is a Travel Sub Agent and is it Right for you - we will post it in the comments.https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-sub-agent➡️ HAR Events Cal! - https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-conferences-events➡️ How to Choose the best host and key factors to consider https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-conferences-events/2025/how-to-choose-the-best-host-agency-for-travel-advisors-key-factors-to-consider➡️Switching Hosts 5 Things to Consider https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/switching-host-agencies-5-things-to-consider➡️Dual Affiliation   https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/belonging-to-more-than-one-host-agency➡️A huge thank you to Connie for joining us today and we will post the link to Montecito Village Travel’s profile for you in the comments section so you can go check them out.https://hostagencyreviews.com/hosts/montecito-village-travel➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 

Steph and Shayna co-host the Friday 15 with Stephanie Pickles of PTN! Scope out PTN's profile here and the questions below that Stephanie, Stephanie and Shayna will cover this Friday at 12 pm CST.Don't forget that you can submit questions and sign up for reminders for the F15 here!1. Where do I find a list of all the host agencies in Japan (like HAR for US and CA). I want to start a branch operation in Japan. I want the consortium in Japan. What are the accreditation in Japan? -Joseph W.2. If an Independent Contractor neglects to renew their Florida Sellers of Travel Independent Sales Agent license on time, what are the repercussions by the state? How have other host agencies handled this situation? Is the host agency liable? --Anonymous3. Why would there be a foreign transaction fee when you are paying the supplier? I guess if they booked direct there might be. --Larry H.RESOURCES:➡️Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) https://www.japan.travel/en/➡️World Travel Agency Associaion Alliance (WTAAA) https://wtaaa.org➡️All Nippon Travel Agency Association (ANTA) https://www.anta.or.jp/➡️Do you need a travel agent license/seller of travel registration? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-license-seller-of-travel-license➡️What is a DMC in travel? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-dmc-destination-management-company➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 

Steph and Shayna welcome Sheila Folk of Travel Industry Solutions to cohost the Friday 15 this week! You can check out TIS’s profile here on our brand-new travel tech software profiles.Here are the juicy questions they’ll tackle this Friday, as always, at 12 pm CST! 1. Hi Stephanie and Team! Thanks for all you do! I am hitting a wall trying to figure out how to bill for group FIT trips. To have each person in the group pay individually for each hotel reservation and activity would cause many foreign transaction fees on their credit cards. It is so much easier to just collect one payment/client and then I could pay it to all of the vendors on my business credit card which has no foreign transaction fees. However, I have heard multiple times that this is not best practice. I called and emailed my host company about this and their only advice was to talk with other advisors about what they do which is fine, but I want to make sure I am doing things properly. Any help with this would be greatly appreciated! Appreciate all you do!Sincerely,Anonymous2. Dear HAR, I’m a relatively new advisor (I started about a year and a half ago) and I am trying to understand the concept of “leads”. My host agency (which I love!) does not have a lead generation program, and I would really like to see how a lead works and practice using my training and skills with a mock lead. Do you know of any programs or practice websites/workbooks for this? Also, in the future how might I generate real leads on my own? Thank you for everything you all do!Lisa B.RESOURCES:Do you need a travel agent license/seller of travel registration? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-license-seller-of-travel-licenseWhat does FIT in travel mean?https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/fit-travel-meaningF15 on tour operator vs. agent (Episode 138) https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15/how-to-navigate-clients-loyalty-programs-stay-clients-agent-not-tour-operator-project-management-platforms-outside-crmWhat is a DMC in travel? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-dmc-destination-management-companyCredit card processing for travel agencies https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/credit-card-processing-for-travel-agenciesTravel waivers to protect your travel agency https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-waivers-protect-your-travel-agencyTravel agent technology: payment solutions https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software/category/payment-solutionsList of travel industry lawyers and contact informationDo travel agents need errors and omissions (E&O) insurance? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agents-need-eo-insuranceTravel Industry Solutions’ HAR profile https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software/travel-industry-solutionsTravel Industry Solutions website https://travelindustrysolutions.com/Travel Leads: Here’s what you need to know. https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-leadsDo you need a travel agent license/seller of travel registration? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-license-seller-of-travel-licensehttps://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-do-travel-agents-doTIS/HAR webinar: How to find clients without feeling overwhelmed https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HMAI7rKAN1QDale Carnegie trainings https://www.dalecarnegie.com/enSimon Sinek - Art of Presenting course➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 

View the video, transcript, and show notes at: https://har.news/vol32Today's guest made the leap from tech project management to travel advising in 2023 while living abroad in Switzerland. Within just two years, she's grown her agency, Your Travel Story, to nearly 6 times the sales from Year 1.What makes Grace Camoglu’s journey particularly fascinating is how she balances being an FIT travel advisor with living in Switzerland, raising two young children (ages 8 and 11), and primarily serving North American clients—all while operating in a different time zone.Grace has embraced fees from day one, starting with $200 and now charging $500 per household for a 7-10 day trip. She'll share how she's navigated time zone challenges, host agency selection as an expat, and why she believes in charging fees from the beginning.For Grace, travel is a family tradition. Her father, who worked at a travel agency in Taiwan before immigrating to the U.S., instilled a love of exploration in her from an early age. Now, she's passing that passion along to her own children while building a business that works for her family's unique situation.Tune in for practical insights on building a travel business abroad and how you can take an objective look at your workflow and use time tracking to hone in on the inefficient areas that are costing you money. And for icing on the cake, Grace will share with use some insider tips for your clients next trip to Switzerland!

In episode 200, Steph and Shayna co-host and Global Travel Collection is out sponsor. We’ve got three substantial questions to dig into this week, so study up & let’s go! 1. I'm just in the beginning of becoming a travel agent and really appreciate all the information I have been able to get from Host Agency Reviews. Thank you so much! My question is related to my potential agency name. I have looked up the possible name on NameCheap and it was not listed but when I look on Facebook there is a page with the same name. It doesn't appear that there has been any activity since 2022. Should I abandon the name I want or add something to the Facebook page name as I create it like my name or the word vacation? Or do you recommend something else? -Debi W.2. As an aspiring travel advisor, do you believe changes in the United States' relations with other countries will significantly impact the number of people booking trips and vacations? How will such changes affect the travel industry? Also, do you think I should continue my efforts to find a host agency?Thank You for your response.-Tonia3.I currently work for a major tour operator and have been quite successful in the luxury FIT space over the past year alone. My company is large enough to handle their own contracts etc., so the idea of host agencies, consortia, etc is foreign to me. While I don't dislike my job, I want to start my own business, be my own boss, and deal with quality over quantity. My business plan is to offer the same kind of tailored itineraries that I do now, but a primary objective is to lead organized small group tours to my specialty destinations. I have read loads of articles on "finding the right host agency". But what I am stuck on is SHOULD I have a host agency. -Anonymous RESOURCES:➡️Tips for choosing travel agency names + examples. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/tips-for-choosing-travel-agency-names) ➡️Smart Traveler Enrollment Program https://mytravel.state.gov/s/step➡️What is a tour operator?➡️What does FIT in travel mean?https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/fit-travel-meaning➡️What is a DMC in travel? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-dmc-destination-management-company➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 

In episode 199, Steph and Shayna co-host with Jennifer Dugan of Dugan’s Travels! Here’s the questions they’ll tackle this week. Please join us! 1. What is your favorite place to travel with children under 5?  ---Staci W.2. Hi guys, my question is about organizing and processes. Working independently it's difficult to see how other people organize not only their workflow but how they store their information to recall it. From as simple as an A-Z address book to put formats or special codes for suppliers, sometimes you just want things simple and quick.I struggle with how to set up my files to recall information. I see Steph saying "oh I'll attach a link …" and she retrieves it.Any tips on how to organize computer files? Any help on notes on webinars watched?Thank you! —Theresa W.RESOURCES:➡️ Project Management Software: Trello, Asana, Monday.com➡️ Software that allows different programs to pass information between them: Zapier➡️ HAR’s list of travel agency CRMs https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software/category/crm➡️Voices of Innovation: Celebrating Women's Leadership in Travel | Host Agency Reviews https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-conferences-events/2025/voices-of-innovation-celebrating-women-s-leadership-in-travel➡️Ways to Contact Jennifer! Dugan’s website https://joindugans.com/Dugan’s HAR profile–ask your questions and read reviews https://hostagencyreviews.com/hosts/dugans-travelsDugan’s Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/duganstravelsDugan’s Instagram https://www.instagram.com/duganstravels/➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 

In episode 198, Steph Lee co-hosts with a longtime friend of the Friday 15, April Swales of Uniglobe Travel Center. They’ve got two especially in-depth questions, so have a look and tune in Friday 12 pm CST! 1. Do you have a good system for organizing all your travel BD contacts and promotional material of properties?  I get overwhelmed with paper and business cards and even online and notes I still cannot seem to get a system in place for everything I receive. --- Sara R.2.  I am an IC with about 2 years in the business.  I'm considering going out on my own because I'm not happy with my situation for many reasons.  How do you know it's the right time to make this change?  What do you see as the pros and cons of staying an IC and being independent? ---AnonymousRESOURCES:➡️Blinq.com for e-business cards and sharing your info, gathering other e-business cards➡️Camcard.com to organize business cards and create e-business cards➡️HAR’s list of travel agency CRMs➡️Follow on Youtube: The BD School lProcess to measure business development ➡️Follow on Youtube: CEO EntrepreneurEssential Functions of a Small Business: Creating An Organisational Structure For Your Business➡️Score.org for various business mentorship opportunities!➡️A list of the different travel agent accreditation options. https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agency-accreditation ➡️What is an IATA number?➡️Top 10 benefits of using a host agency. https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/top-10-benefits-of-using-a-host-agency➡️ Host Agency Reviews’ Travel Consortia List➡️ List of travel industry lawyers and contact information➡️ Do you need a travel agent license/seller of travel registration? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-license-seller-of-travel-license➡️ Do travel agents need Errors & Omissions (E&O) insurance? ➡️Ways to Contact April: Uniglobe Travel Center | Host Agency Reviews https://hostagencyreviews.com/hosts/uniglobe-travel-centerUTC Homehttps://uniglobetravelcenter.com➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 

In episode 197, Steph Lee hosts and Andavo Travel is our sponsor. (Thanks, Andavo!) Here's a taste of the questions she'll cover! 1. At what point should you LLC (so as to protect your assets), even if your income is not large yet?  — Anonymous2. How does a newbie travel advisor become a sub-agent? And where can a newbie find a mentor? —Diana B.3. I always worry about being considered the Merchant of Record on flights and being on the hook for any refunds that are due the client while waiting on the airline to send the refund. Any thoughts? - KarenRESOURCES:➡️ What are the business structures options for my travel agency and the pros/cons of each?➡️ List of travel industry lawyers and contact information➡️Research reports covering the income growth for travel advisors as they gain experiences➡️Join our industry association: ASTA (American Society of Travel Advisors)➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 

In episode 196, our very own Mary Stein co-hosts with the one and only Jenn Lee of Vacation Planners! Here’s the questions they’ll tackle this week! 1. Do you have a good system for organizing all your travel BD contacts and promotional material of properties? I get overwhelmed with paper and business cards and even online and notes I still cannot seem to get a system in place for everything I receive. - Sara2. I am an IC with about 2 years in the business. I'm considering going out on my own because I'm not happy with my situation for many reasons. How do you know it's the right time to make this change? What do you see as the pros and cons of staying an IC and being independent?  - Anonymous3. Hey Guys! I'm wondering, What are some ideas for "Thank You" gifts for my clients that are traveling to All Inclusives? I feel like it's easy to do gifts on cruises, I'm just not quite sure what to do for my land vacations. Any ideas?") - CindyRESOURCES:➡️ Host Agency Review’s Travel Agency Software Profiles https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software➡️Host Week 2023: EduSpot, Personality Selling - Gain CONTROL from the Beginning https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UfZ0EIkCYZU&t=13290s➡️Top 10 benefits of using a host agency. https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/top-10-benefits-of-using-a-host-agency➡️Things to look for in your contract with your host agency (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/independent-travel-agent-contracts)➡️Advice on how to find the best host agency. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/tips-on-how-to-find-the-best-travel-host-agency) ➡️Brilliant Ideas to Surprise & Delight Your Clients, Host Week Eduspot Stephanie Gries: https://www.youtube.com/live/WhNhFEYhJwY?feature=shared&t=18609➡️Ways to Contact Jenn Lee! [email protected] Planners Host Agency Reviews profile (https://www.hostagencyreviews.com/hosts/vacation-planners)Vacation Planners website (https://vacationplannersfranchise.com/)➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 

In episode 195, we have a HAR Team special with Shayna Zand and Rita Perez! Here are the questions they’ll cover in this week’s episode! At what point should you LLC (so as to protect your assets), even if your income is not large yet? How do you deal with failure? I feel lost on which course to take. There seems to be the ASTA roadmap, This Accelerator course, and then the TRIPKIT course, which all seem to have rave reviews. But what's the difference?RESOURCES:➡️ Travel Agency Business Structures: How to Choose https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agency-business-structures➡️Previous Friday 15 where Steph and her co-host discussed LLCs and bank accounts: Getting Set Up with LLC, Bank Accts, Etc. – Using Points for Clients? – Host Agencies Outside US? | Host Agency Reviews https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15/getting-set-up-with-llc-bank-accts-etc-using-points-for-clients-host-agencies-outside-usHost Week Discussion with Stacey Cabell: Breaking Boundaries: How Stepping Out of Your Comfort Zone Can Transform Your Travel Business https://www.youtube.com/live/mk-2kBH0aS8?t=18043s➡️ Travel Agent Training and Education, 2025 https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-training-travel-agent-education➡️ HAR Resource on Selling Travel Full-time vs. Part-time:  https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/selling-travel-full-time➡️Travel Market Research Reports | Host Agency Reviews https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/travel-market-research-reports➡️https://har.news/roadmap (HAR’s course through ASTA. The Roadmap to Becoming a Travel Advisor.)➡️HAR’s 7 Day Setup LITE is a free online course that helps you start your agency. It does not have support and takes you through resources to help you make things happen. (https://www.hostagencyreviews.com/7-day-setup-lite)➡️HAR’s 7 Day Setup Accelerator course with 70+ easily digestible videos, 48 exclusive resources, monthly live meetups with HAR team and others for support and accountability, + priority email support. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/7-day-setup-accelerator)➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 

In episode 194, Steph cohosts again with Lori Speers of Levarte Travel! Here are the questions they’ll cover!1. How do I deal with a client who is searching while I am researching and I feel like I am in a race to find the best deal or price?  —Pamela C.2. Hey Guys! I'm wondering, What are some ideas for "Thank You" gifts for my clients that are traveling to All Inclusives? I feel like it's easy to do gifts on cruises, I'm just not quite sure what to do for my land vacations. Any ideas?  —Cindy W.3. ​​When changing Host agencies, is it possible to transfer clients and vendor information without doing it individually? As a courtesy, should I tell the agency that I am moving on to another agency?  —Pamela C.RESOURCES:➡️Did you miss Levare’s Host Week interview? What did they answer for their Karaoke question?!?➡️Travel agent guide to charging fees.➡️WATCH: Host Week 2025 EduSpot: Redefining Value Beyond Commissions: The Case for Planning Fees in Travel, Ajanaclair Wise➡️WATCH: Host Week 2025 EduSpot: Different Ways to Surprise and Delight Your Clients, Stephanie Gries, Travefy➡️What to think about when switching host agencies. ➡️Host Agency Review’s Travel Agency Software Profiles ➡️Things to look for in your contract with your host agency ➡️ Virtual assistant companies: Lucia, 4TravelStaffing➡️Read reviews and learn more on Levarte’s HAR profile! ➡️Check out Levarte’s new website!➡️Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15

In episode 192, Steph cohosts again with Jennifer Dugan of Dugan’s Travels! Here are the questions they’ll cover!1. ​​Hi I’m a new independent travel advisor just getting ramped up and which CRM is recommended for CC payments- I would like my clients to pay directly using a CC or debit card. -Kevin Jordan 2. How in the world can we go through 30 hosts in detail with questions to finally decide 1 to sign on? I have already contacted an attorney to form the LLC before sign up with the host.-Anonymous3. How do you assess how and what to charge for planning fees?-AnonymousRESOURCES:Host Agency Review’s Travel Agency Software Profiles https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-softwareTravel Agency CRM List (with User Reviews (https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software/category/crm)Things to look for in your contract with your host agency (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/independent-travel-agent-contracts)Advice on how to find the best host agency. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/tips-on-how-to-find-the-best-travel-host-agency) https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agents-guide-to-charging-fees (Travel agent guide to charging fees.)https://hostagencyreviews.com/travelagentchatter/lary-neron-airfare-consultant  (Podcast episode with an advisor who books air only and charges $50-500 fees per ticket.)Travel market research report data on travel agent fee charging practices: what they charge for, how much, fee structures and more. https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/travel-advisor-research-reports/https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 (Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering!) 

In episode 191, Steph cohosts with Dave Meihoefer of TPI and they’ve got a ton of questions to cover, so make sure and ready up on ‘em in advance! Have a gander: 1. Hi Steph!  I thought I had a rare name, but your podcast is making me feel like just another Stephanie! :). SO many Stephanies!!!  We should start a club!I have gone through the Accelerator Course, just going back and starting the business end of things - after 2 1/2 months of name searching, I feel like I can finally fill in the blanks!  Thanks so much for all of your great podcasts and resources!!This question doesn't really pertain to me now, but when looking to the future, in my successful advisor life, what is the benefit of leaving a host agency and going on my own?  Will I be a host agency lifer?  Or is there a pot of gold on the other side?  Just curious, cheers-Another One of those Stephanies2. Hi Steph, listener & big HAR fan here from Belgium, Europe!Don't know if this has already been asked, but couldn't find it straight away in the archives 😉Here is my question:"How would you deal with clients who are travelling and complaining about every minor detail, going from "the gym was only open for 1 hour" (though the sign & website says from 6am to 7 pm), "the room was cold but they wouldn't turn on the heating" (even though it was already on), "breakfast is too British", "restaurant prices were too Western, not to Indian standards" (in a Michelin star restaurant in India), ... They are driving the local rep up the wall, nothing seems to suit them, they've been given free upgrades etc, but when confronting them personally, they're telling a completely different story than the local agency is.I'm worried it's some sort of strategy, to get a reimbursment or discount for their next trip, but don't want to fall for this.How should one handle this professionally without risking getting bad reviews and knowing they got everything they requested at time of booking and more.They are also seasoned travellers so shouldn't be a case where they came unprepared.Any thoughts, insights?Kind regards,Inez3. Hi Friday 15! I'm a school teacher and will be starting part time until I retire in 2-5 years. During the summers I have tons of free time but if I have clients on a trip during the school year how will I be available to them? For example if a problem arises and they need me to rebook something / advocate for them with a supplier, etc? Teaching is not like some jobs where you can just duck away from your desk for 15 minutes randomly in the middle of the day to take a phone call. When I'm at school I'm very much in a "school bubble" that nothing can interrupt. I guess the main "questions behind my question" are, how realistic is it to successfully do this as a side hustle while teaching, and for how long? How much will I be able to take care of my clients (or how much of that will actually be needed) during the school year? ---Alissa B.RESOURCES:HAR’s 7 Day Setup Accelerator course on how to start your travel agency! https://hostagencyreviews.com/7-day-setup-acceleratorTop 10 benefits of using a host agency. https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/top-10-benefits-of-using-a-host-agencyTravel Agency Accreditation         https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agency-accreditationWhat is a Preferred Supplier Relationship in the Travel Industry? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-preferred-supplierWhat Are Travel Consortia & Co-Ops? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-travel-consortia-travel-coopsDo You Need A Travel Agent License? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-license-seller-of-travel-licenseTravel Planners International HAR profile  with user reviews. https://hostagencyreviews.com/hosts/travel-planners-international Travel Planners Internationalhttps://www.travelplannersinternational.comDave on FB https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 (Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering!) 

In episode 190, Steph Lee and Sheila Folk of Travel Industry Solutions go deep this week with questions on suppliers and seller of travel rules! Here are the questions in their entirely:1. I have signed up with _____ as my host agent. Being very new to travel of this form, I feel I am learning a lot of the marketing. I know it is important but I’m not learning the program for the booking part and am getting frustrated. I must be missing something.Ok sorry for the rant.The question is: is it the suppliers that provide the software on the booking? I am going in the direction of cruises. Let me know.  —Deborah M..2. I have been looking into host agencies and trying to find the right solution for my situation. I am hoping you could provide a little clarity with your expertise. I want to join a host agency with the hope that someday I can live wherever I want for up to 6 months out of the year. I currently live in Ontario, Canada and ideally when I retire I would like to continue my travel sales. I want a portable business. Is this possible with residency restrictions?In reading more about "Seller of Travel" rules, my understanding is that in Ontario you need to be TICO certified to sell travel in Ontario. But you can only sell travel to Ontario residents and you must be an Ontario resident. Which I assume means even if my main residence is Ontario, if I'm visiting Italy for 3 months, I cannot continue to sell travel to Ontarions while staying in another country for several months out of the year?So as I started to look into this issue, I found that the US is a little more lax, but there are still a few states that require certain licensing like Florida, California, Hawaii etc. So if I wanted a portable business would the solution be to connect with a host agency that is US based and accepts Canadians also, so that while I am living abroad I have the freedom to sell travel products to US residents without restrictions of licensing or where I live for a few months of the year?  —PattiRESOURCES:HAR’s travel industry conferences and events calendar with over 100+ events! https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-conferences-eventsDo you need a travel agent license/seller of travel registration? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-license-seller-of-travel-licenseCanadian Regulations for Travel Agencies in a Nutshell https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/canadian-regulations-travel-agencies-nutshellACTA - Association of Canadian Travel Agencies and Advisors https://www.acta.ca/index.phpHost Agency List with hundreds of hosts and reviews from their travel advisor members. Travel Industry Solutions websiteRead reviews and ask questions on Travel Industry Solutions’ HAR profile. https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 (Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering!) 

In episode 189, Steph Lee and April Swales of Uniglobe Travel chat on our first barrage of 2025 questions from all you lovely people! Here's a taste, make sure and tune in on Friday! 1. I plan to continue working at my current job and want to start my travel agency in the new year. Do you have tips on how to juggle two jobs and make sure I get back to my clients quickly when I have another day job? I don’t want to lose any future clients but can’t afford to not work. —Katee R.2. Our family of 3 takes a cruise every winter with 3 other families. I am the organizer. Would it be worth it for me to become a travel agent? What kind of savings can I access and how much would it cost to become a travel agent? —Jen R.RESOURCES:How much do travel agents make? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/how-much-do-travel-agents-make-travel-agent-salaryHow much does it cost to become a travel agent or start a travel agency?https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/how-much-does-it-cost-become-travel-ageInformation on travel agent income over time. https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/travel-advisor-research-reports/Host Agency Review’s Travel Agency Software Profiles: https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-softwareDo Travel Agents Need Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance?https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agents-need-eo-insuranceA List of 200+ Travel Agent Rates in 2024https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-ratesExplaining Travel Agent Commissions [Infographic + Charts]https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-commissionsHost Week 2025! | Host Agency Reviewshttps://hostagencyreviews.com/page/host-week[2025] Uniglobe CoffeeSpothttps://ed1e5ad3.sibforms.com/serve/MUIFAJ1Efm1gFSJThrlIFK7HAQSHPtkbon_gnvq4zAanPS6Y0b3cRlAdM9Ej-vpPi1mHxDYqTtq6WB5QAl1DYefIsPdpjo9lB4NbzhVvTWP5-1c4EZHb4Z-OEiYxXS7-qZvHR-DsxB5hjyjHawev0slkms6vlwx-RymY3u_aRRL5W3OkEw8DQtNQWuC30ICqMRQAv7FJLPjGygQbUTC’s Host Week interview will be Wednesday, 1/29/2024 at 11 am !Uniglobe Travel Center | Host Agency Reviewshttps://hostagencyreviews.com/hosts/uniglobe-travel-centerUTC Homehttps://uniglobetravelcenter.com/https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 (Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering!) 

In episode 188, Steph Lee and Jennifer Dugan of Dugan’s Travels cover some great questions this week, including how long it takes to get started as an advisor and how OTAs affect travel advisor business. Here are the queries in detail:  1. Hi, I have been listening to the Friday 15s this month, thank you for all the information. What's the typical timeline from starting as a new advisor to becoming profitable? —Anonymous2. I’m exploring a career as a travel advisor and am seriously thinking about starting my agency in 2025 after Host Week. I’m worried about competing with Booking.com and Expedia. How do those companies affect an agency’s business model and ability to compete? –AnonymousRESOURCES:How much do travel agents make? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/how-much-do-travel-agents-make-travel-agent-salaryHow much does it cost to become a travel agent or start a travel agency?https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/how-much-does-it-cost-become-travel-ageInformation on travel agent income over time. https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/travel-advisor-research-reports/https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/3-ways-travel-agents-save-you-money (3 ways travel agents save you money that OTAs can’t)Using a travel agent vs. booking online? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-vs-booking-onlineInternova North American Traveler Insights report https://internova.com/research/https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 (Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering!) 

In episode 187, Steph Lee and Jennifer Dugan of Dugan’s Travels discuss a variety of topics this week, including E&O Insurance and when it’s a good idea to get your own IATA number! Here are the questions in all their glory: 1. I would like to hear the Pros and Cons and the best strategy on choosing a supplier for E&O insurance. –Diane D.2. Hello! I came across a blog and wanted to reach out as I am becoming more and more confused as I search. I am a 1099 contractor under a company with an IATA # I've been using to sell travel for approx 10 years. But my main business is wedding planning. I would like to earn commission on my hotel room blocks at 100%. For many reasons, but most hotels are capped at 7% so I am not gaining anything with my current travel partners volume. I do still want to sell travel under his IATA for Sandals, and most other trips that I book with TOs and benefit from higher commissions due to volume I would not have on my own.I do not sell air. Can I/ Should I get my own IATA # to book the hotels and non volume commission bookings and keep 100%. If so, can I continue selling under his IATA (I have my own IATAN card under his number for my own personal travel perks).Or is there another accreditation I could use just for hotel commissions (mostly Hilton and Marriott). I was reading about clia and arc and true... etc. I don't need a complex answer. But I'd love some direction. Thank you very much in advance! –AnonymousRESOURCES:Do Travel Agents Need Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance? (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agents-need-eo-insurance)What Is An IATA Number? (And How Do You Get It?) (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/iata-number)What is a CLIA Number? CLIA vs. ARC and CLIA vs. IATA (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-a-clia-number)Travel Agency Accreditation Options [Infographic + More] (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agency-accreditation)Belonging to more than one host agency: The pros and cons. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/belonging-to-more-than-one-host-agency)Things to look for in your contract with your host agency (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/independent-travel-agent-contracts)Use HAR’s commission plan calculator: https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/host-agency-commission-plan-comparison-calculatorMore on host agency relationships (and more) in our Hosted Travel Advisor Report. https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/travel-advisor-research-reports/Do Travel Agents Need Errors and Omissions (E&O) Insurance? (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agents-need-eo-insurance)Dugan's Travels LLC | Host Agency Reviewshttps://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 (Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering!) 

In episode 186 Steph cohosts with Kendra Tainsh of Travel Edge. Here are the questions these expert ladies will cover for you all! 1. I have been away from the corporate travel industry for over 20+ years and I would like to revisit being a corporate travel advisor. I used Sabre when I was an agent and I've been seeing so many jobs I could possibly qualify for but you need at least 2 years of corporate travel experience domestic and international.I would like to know the best Sabre course/refresher I could take to once again be Sabre efficient and qualified to apply for these positions. I was told once you know Sabre it's like riding a bike you don't forget how to navigate it. Any guidance would be greatly appreciated. Thank you in advance.  ---Robin B. 2. Hi! Thank you for your super helpful website and podcast!I've signed up with a host agency, and done the online education, but I am still pretty confused about how to create FIT trips through the host. For years I have run my own trips and have strong relationships with specific hotels, lodges, transportation companies and tour guides. There are specific hotels and lodges that I always use when I book trips. Now that I have my own company and a host agency, I am realizing that none of my contacts/hotels, etc. are used or even findable on the host agency's site.When I did my initial call with the host agency, they said it wasn't a problem to book non preferred suppliers, but now I am not getting any info about how to book these hotels and lodges that I want to for upcoming trips. I can book these hotels and lodges with an OTA or directly with the hotel or lodge, but am I then liable as the supplier since I didn't book through the host agency? I was told by the attorney who I hired to do my Terms and Conditions that it was important for me to book everything through the host agency for my protection, but I am not sure how to do that. Any help would be greatly appreciated! Thank you from another Minnesotan! So grateful for your work with new advisors!!  ---Heather M.RESOURCES:What is the GDS system and which travel agents use it? (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-gds)Tips on how to become a corporate travel agent. https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/become-corporate-travel-agent Sabre training (and other GDS trainings) by Viasinc. https://www.viasinc.com/products/sabre-training-courses.htmlTravel Institute Sabre training. https://www.thetravelinstitute.com/product/sabre-personal-trainer/Find travel agents jobs and get weekly roundup of new openings on HAR’s jobs board. https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-jobsWhat is a travel agency debit memo? (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agency-debit-memo)What is an FIT in travel? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/fit-travel-meaningAll about preferred suppliers in the travel industry. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-preferred-supplier)How Seller of Travel Laws Affect Service Fees. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/seller-travel-laws-service-fees)What is the Seller of Travel registration or travel agency license? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-license-seller-of-travel-license Everything you’ve ever wanted to know about travel agent E&O insurance (errors & ommissions insurance)! https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agents-need-eo-insurancehttps://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 (Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering!) 

Transcript + Show Notes: https://har.news/vol31 Special thanks to today’s sponsor: KHM Travel GroupToday's guests prove that sometimes the best partnerships start at home. Lauren Pronger launched Well Inspired Travels in 2011, inspired by witnessing travel's transformative power when her father used it to complement his cancer treatment. When her husband Chris, NHL Hall of Famer and Triple Gold Cup winner, joined the business in 2018, they discovered they were more powerful together.What makes this power couple unique isn't just their high-profile clientele of professional athletes and executives—it's their holistic approach to travel planning and firm "no asshole policy." The Prongers have built a luxury agency that perfectly balances Lauren's creative vision with Chris's business development expertise. They've mastered the art of strategic outsourcing through their host agency, allowing them to be the face of the business while having strong back-office support.Lauren brings her expertise as a wellness consultant to both clients and properties, helping hotels level up their wellness offerings while ensuring clients can maintain their health practices while traveling. With 10 different certifications and a deep understanding of both Eastern and Western approaches to wellness, she's helping to shape the future of luxury wellness travel.Chris brings his experience as an elite athlete to help clients, especially professional athletes, navigate the unique challenges of maintaining peak performance while traveling. Together, they've mastered the art of what they call "travel matchmaking"—deeply understanding their clients' needs, goals, and challenges to create transformative travel experiences.Join us for an inspiring conversation about building a successful family business, maintaining work-life balance, and the growing intersection of luxury and wellness travel. You'll learn about their "one thing" philosophy that every trip should improve your life in some way, how they maintain boundaries with ultra-high-net-worth clients, and why they're moving away from public travel recommendations to private newsletters for clients.

In episode 185 Steph cohosts with Jennifer Dugan of Dugan’s Travels. Don’t miss this great episode chock full of helpful wisdom, covering the questions you will find below: 1. What is the best way to contact a resort to do a site inspection (email, phone call), especially if the resort is out of the country?Thanks, Jenn B.2. After organizing group tours as a volunteer for my club, I am now transitioning to become a professional. I love your podcast and website - thank you.  I'll be doing the 7-day series soon.I do group tours that are customized for a special interest.  Numerous times, I have tried to book a block of rooms with a hotel and the pricing they quote is more expensive than what I can get from Booking.com or Agoda.com.  In the most recent example, it was 133 room nights and the savings by leaving the rooms on Booking.com was over $15,000.  Additionally, the in-house contract usually requires up front deposits and has much worse cancellation policies.  I really want to help the hotels, but I can't wrap my head around why I should book direct when it costs more and has worse cancellation.  Thoughts?Larry P.RESOURCES:The Definitive Site Inspection Checklist (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/definitive-site-inspection-checklist)Make the Most of a Cruise Ship Inspection (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/how-travel-agents-can-make-the-most-of-a-cruise-ship-inspection) Travel Agent FAM Trips: What They Are + How to Find Them + Etiquette (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-fam-trip)Options for booking air without the GDS system. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-gds)Using a Travel Agent vs. Booking Online: An Infographic (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-vs-booking-online)How Much Do Travel Agents Make per Booking? (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/how-much-do-travel-agents-make-per-booking)10 Insider Group Booking Tips from Travel Advisors [+Infographic] (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/group-booking-tips-travel-advisors-agents)Here’s What Suppliers Want You to Know About Booking Groups (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/supplier-want-you-know-booking-groups)Dugan's Travels LLC | Host Agency Reviews (https://hostagencyreviews.com/hosts/dugans-travels) https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 (Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering!) 

In episode 184 Steph cohosts with David Meihoefer of TPI! Steph and Dave have some really substantive questions to dig into, so make sure you don’t miss it! Here are the questions: 1. Hi Steph and Guest. Our host agency was just hit with fraud and they sent a notice that we’ll be responsible for any fraudulent bookings. Is this common? I’m new and I’m worried I will make a fraudulent booking and not know it. It would be helpful if we knew what to look out and how to avoid bad bookings. —Anonymous2. I am curious about the industry practice regarding changing from one commission split level to another within a host agency. Is it customary to be paid on a booking based on what your split is when you entered the booking into your host’s commission tracking system? Rather than what your split is at the time of travel?Thanks for any insight!—Anonymous3. Do you recommend new travel advisors have a marketing budget from Day 1? I know you need to spend money to make money. However, I’m unclear how much to spend and would appreciate guidance.Thanks!—AnonymousRESOURCES:Mark Pestronk on Preventing Fraudhttps://www.travelweekly.com/Mark-Pestronk/How-to-prevent-IC-fraud-on-suppliersARC’s Fraud Prevention Tools https://www2.arccorp.com/support-training/fraud-preventionHow to Protect Your Travel Agency from Credit Card Fraudhttps://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/protect-travel-agency-credit-card-fraudRole Reversal: Thinking Like a Travel Agency Fraudster 2017https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/role-reversal-thinking-like-travel-agency-fraudster-2017Explaining Travel Agent Commissions [Infographic + Charts]https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-commissions (All about travel agent commissions, including airline commissions.)HAR’s $100 Travel Agency Marketing Plan  (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/the-100-travel-agency-marketing-plan)https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 (Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering!) 

In episode 183 Steph cohosts with Kendra Tainsh of Travel Edge. They’re gonna have a go at the questions below, and give you plenty to learn about in the process!  1. Hi, I am just joining a Travel Agent as part of her independent Agency starting in December but I do need to establish myself as an LLC as well as set up a business bank account which I will do at the bank that I have been using for my personal banking. Do you have any suggestions as to the best Credit card for TA's? Thank you, Robin R2. Are there any arrangements where a customer can still earn points with a hotel chain or airline while purchasing through a travel agency? I hate having friends and family make an effort to work with me, pay the same as they would pay on their own & lose their points. –Jenn T.3. Hi Steph, are there any host agencies that work with international new advisors outside the USA and Canada? Thank you! –Meseret G.RESOURCES:Setting Up Your Travel Agency’s Financials(https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/setting-up-travel-agencys-financials)The Best Credit Card Rewards for Your Travel Agency(https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/best-credit-card-rewards-travel-agency)How Much Do Travel Agents Make per Booking?(https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/how-much-do-travel-agents-make-per-booking)Using a Travel Agent vs. Booking Online: An Infographic(https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-vs-booking-online)Travel Agent Booking Basics(https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-booking-basics)Travel Agency Accreditation Options [Infographic + More](https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agency-accreditation)Travel Edge | Host Agency Reviews with reviews and info (https://hostagencyreviews.com/hosts/travel-edge)Luxury Travel Advisors & Agent Host Agency Network | TravelEdge(https://www.traveledgenetwork.com/)instagram: @traveledgenetwork

In episode 182 Steph cohosts with Jennnifer Dugan of Dugan’s Travels! Here’s a taste of the questions! 1. Hello, HAR team. Thank you for your very informative article series on booking group travel.  I'm working on my first group and trying to wrap my brain around contracts. Is there a contract between you (the travel advisor) and the supplier, and another contract between you and the client, or is it all one contract? Is this in addition to the usual terms and conditions form used when booking FIT travel? Last, are there any red flags to watch out for or items to be sure to include when signing these contracts with suppliers? Thank you for all you do!  --Molly C. 2.Do advisors typically split their planning fees with their host agencies? If so, does it follow the commission split? Thank you! --Anonymous3. I've had a hard time summing up my niche into one word, as I'm new to the industry. My goal is to provide travel to the curious mind that is leisure, but can also include giving back to the community/land/culture through volunteering, shopping local markets, or through participating in educational experiences. It seems the appropriate name for this niche would be Eco Travel or Responsible Travel. Granted, it's difficult to be 100% environmentally friendly since some travel is unavoidable, but if you have any suggestions regarding the name or suggestions of suppliers that specialize work with this type of niche, I would greatly appreciate it. Thank you for this incredible podcast. - Jamie K. 

In episode 181 Steph cohosts with a longtime Friday 15 friend, April Swales of Uniglobe Travel! Here's a taste of the topics they'll tackle -- via your questions! 1. I'm a new advisor and the host agency's booking platform is soooo complicated! I'm still trying to make it through the training. Thinking about switching to another host. Are booking platforms so complicated in general? How can you find out?  —Marsha G.2. Hi Steph, I've been a long-time listener and am now a regular caller—love the show!For my Friyay! 15 Question, I’m thinking about adding my booking metrics data like the number of booked cruises, flights, and destinations to my website. Do you think this is a good idea? If so, how would an agent go about adding that information to the site?All this to help build a trusting relationship with clients about the services that we provide.Thanks for your insights! I’ll hang up and listen now.😁Best,Quincy H.3. Hi Steph! I saw your post on LinkedIn about the Beneficial Ownership Information. Is this required for all agencies? Why haven’t I heard about this before? —AnonymousRESOURCES:Find booking tools and reviews on HAR’s travel agency software list. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software)Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI): What it Is, How to File, + Reporting Requirements (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/beneficial-ownership-information-boi-what-it-is-how-to-file-reporting-requirements)Uniglobe Travel Center’s profile with reviews and info (https://hostagencyreviews.com/hosts/uniglobe-travel-center)Uniglobetravelcenter.comhttps://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 (Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering!) 

 In episode 180 Steph welcomes Kendra Tainsh of Travel Edge Network as a co-host. They'll cover the following topics in this week's Friday 15! 1. As I move into setting up my own Travel Advisor business, I'm thinking about what computer to get. As a teacher, I've been provided a MacBook Pro, which I love, but I know no different! Laptop? PC? Apple?  —Stephanie B.2. I am in the process of researching which host agency to join. Which ones offer discounts to tickets (concerts/sporting events/day tours/activities/etc.)? Evolution Travel offers those discounts, but am unsure whether the MLM model is the right choice for me. I haven't been able to find this level of detail when doing my search. Ideally, 'm looking for a host agency with a GDS, part of consortia, no minimum sales requirement and have discounts to tickets. Thank you so much! :)  —Cecily M.  3. Most resources we come across assume that the agent is structured as a sole proprietorship or single-LLC. This has caused us to ask if there are any major differences in how a MMLLC is handled within the industry. For example, do host agencies see us as a single "agency" or as two agents when it comes to commissions, fees, training?  —Joseph H.RESOURCES:What is a DMC in Travel? (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-dmc-destination-management-company)All about preferred suppliers in the travel industry. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-preferred-supplier)Everything you need to know about Travel MLMs (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-mlms)Advice on how to find the best host agency + questions to ask. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/tips-on-how-to-find-the-best-travel-host-agency) What the GDS is + options for booking air without the GDS system. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-gds)

In episode 179 Steph is co-hosting with David Meihoefer of TPI! Here’s a taste of the subjects they’ll tackle: 1. I'm still debating which host agency to choose, do you suggest I wait until host week to choose?  Also do you think I should have my website set up before choosing a host? -Thanks, Jenn2. I am still just doing lots of reading, and trying to better understand the travel advisor landscape a bit better.  One question I am wondering if you can answer for me is the relationship between the host agency and the consortium.  When I talked to a host, it sounds like they select their suppliers directly. They have a team that does that. However, it also seems like their suppliers have to come from the consortium, or at least they have to maintain a certain ratio there. So if someone wanted to be a supplier to that host, would they also have to be a supplier to the consortium? Just trying to understand who really maintains that relationship between the suppliers? Is it both, or more one than the other? —AnonymousRESOURCES:https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 (Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering!) How to build a website in 7 minutes + videos (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/wix-tutorial)Register for the party of the year: Host Week (https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/host-week)Advice on how to find the best host agency + questions to ask. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/tips-on-how-to-find-the-best-travel-host-agency) All about preferred suppliers in the travel industry. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-preferred-supplier)What is a travel consortium? (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-travel-consortia-travel-coops)What is a host agency? (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-a-host-agency)Signature Travel Network’s HAR profile (https://hostagencyreviews.com/consortia/signature-travel-network)Travel Planners International's profile with reviews and info (https://hostagencyreviews.com/hosts/travel-planners-international)

In episode 178 Steph is co-hosting with Jennifer Dugan of Dugan’s Travels! Here are the questions for this week! 1. I loved the HAR CRM and Itinerary article. My head is spinning: I've looked at so many, Planiteasy, Travefy, Traveljoy, Unmapped, Axus, Tess, Tern. Which one can I either forward the email confirmation from hotels/air/car and it will input all the details not just the confirmation, dates... like prices, room type and cancel policies, or do they all make you enter this again to create the client itinerary once finished booking the reservation? Which let you import confirmations directly from suppliers and help create itineraries?So yes I want a unicorn, a central repository for all my client's profiles and their bookings, plus the ability to create and send itineraries...that are of course beautiful.   Haha.-Janette 2. Does anyone have a place that they can recommend to track expenses?  I'm using an excel spreadsheet and honestly I'm not a fan of it. -Dina3. Hi there! I have a client wanting to go on a fall foliage tour back east this year. I already quoted her a land tour, but now she’s asking about a train tour. Walking a lot would be a problem for my client. How should I balance all of these requests and find the right suppliers? Thank you for all your feedback. -AnonymousRESOURCES:Find itinerary builders, read over 90 advisor reviews + more in HAR’s new travel agency software list! (https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software)Freshbooks. https://www.freshbooks.com/Xero. https://www.xero.com/Quickbooks. https://quickbooks.intuit.com/Expensify. https://www.expensify.com/What travel expenses can you (and can’t you) write off? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-expensesTravel agents, here’s how to qualify clients. (Tutorials + real-life examples) https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/how-to-qualify-clients-travel-agentHost Week EduSpot: Shifting Identities - Making Travel More Accessible. https://www.youtube.com/live/tT7cHbr_y-g?feature=shared&t=19139 Host Week EduSpot: Growing Your Business Through Accessible Travel. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g0cSwYJxyOU&t=15922sDugan's Travels’ profile with reviews and info (https://hostagencyreviews.com/hosts/dugans-travels)https://www.facebook.com/duganstravels/

In episode 177 Steph is co-hosting with Stephanie Pickles of Pickles Travel! They’ve got a ton to discuss, including the following: 1. I hope to be a beginner agent one day soon and as I am sorting out how to break into this industry I have settled on going through a host agency, in large part thanks to your wonderful website and podcasts which I have been absorbing rapidly. However, as I review your Host Agency profiles I see GDS (which I understand and cannot use), as well as Ticketing for non-GDS agents and Air Programs listed under Corporate tools. What is the difference between a Ticketing for non-GDS agents program and an Air Program that is a corporate tool? Many thanks!  —Kerrin M.2. I guess you can now call me an 'older newbie', but I think I am losing some clients when they ask, "Do you do flights." As I know most TAs don't do airfare I have been giving them the same response. However, I have lost some clients by saying that. I have learned recently that Centrav is now offering training on how to purchase airfare for clients. What's the best way to handle such a question or should I go ahead and make their flights if asked given the problems that could arise?  —Marc C.3. Recently I had a client ask me to help him book a trip to Sicily.  I found two packaged deals that would fit his interests. The problem is that he asked me to send him the links I was looking at so that he could see the suppliers I am working with plus the hotels so he can make a choice. Not knowing how to handle such a response, I sent him the links. So far in two days, I haven't heard from him. What's the best way to handle such a situation from a client?  —Marc C.RESOURCES:Options for booking air without the GDS system + what the heck the GDS is. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-gds)https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/travel-advisor-research-reports/ (Travel agent survey data on fee charging practices: what they charge for, how much, fee structures and more.)Find itinerary builders + more in HAR’s new travel agency software list! (https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software)Pickles Travel Network’s profile with reviews and info (https://hostagencyreviews.com/hosts/pickles-travel-network)

In episode 176 Steph is co-hosting with Lori Speers of Levarte Travel! Here’s an introduction to the questions they’ll discuss. 1.Hi Stephanie and Guest du jour! I’m a very new advisor and would like to know how best to make the most of an upcoming trip. My husband and I are cruising the Caribbean in February with our adult children. To be clear, this trip was planned a year ago, long before I decided to plan travel professionally. We will be cruising out of San Juan, stopping in St Kitts, St Lucia, Aruba, Punta Cana, and Curaçao. Most of the stops are for 8 hours or so. We will be spending a week in Puerto Rico post-cruise. This is most definitely a vacation, but I definitely want to leverage my time and opportunity in these places. I am planning to reach out to our BDM for the cruise line to see if I can request a ship tour. How long do site inspections take? Would it be feasible to hit up a resort while in port and do an inspection while I’m in town? Or are there other, or better ways to mix business with pleasure? Obviously I am planning on taking tons of photos, and posting all about our trip and all the fun we’ll be having in the sun! Thank you so much for your response, and for all that you do for the travel community! —-Rachel M2. Hi HAR Friday 15!I'm checking Friday 15 and TAC episodes off with every commute to work and love it!  I'm retiring from a fabulous 20 year career as an art educator in a public school this year.  I am committed to making it the best school year ever, but am so excited to begin a career I've always dreamed of in the travel industry.  I will retire in May and I would love your input on what would benefit my path to this new career while I'm still teaching full time.  I'm ready to commit to 2 or 3 hours 3 to 5 days a week.I'm really enjoying doing some of the upfront work: finding a niche, developing a name/brand, reading up on the travel industry, reading ASTA articles, HAR articles and so on.  My questions are:Should I jump in and do the 7 Day Agency Set Up?  Or would that be a mistake? Is it possible to start with a host agency part time? Or would it be best to wait until I can dedicate my full brain and time to this new career?While I'm young at heart (being a traveler does that to you!) I would be starting this new career later than some(at 58) are there other aspects of the travel industry that I could consider that might be better for a late start? I feel like it is such an awesome thing to have the time to do this before I become officially in the biz...I appreciate and enjoy all of the information that you put out there for people like me, so thanks! Hi to the dogs in charge, – Another StephanieRESOURCES:What travel expenses can you (and can’t you) write off? https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-expensesTravel Agent FAM Trips: What They Are + How to Find Them + Etiquette (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-fam-trip)How Travel Advisors Can Make the Most of a Cruise Ship Inspection (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/how-travel-agents-can-make-the-most-of-a-cruise-ship-inspection)The Definitive Site Inspection Checklist (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/definitive-site-inspection-checklist)Host Week 2024 Eduspot | Reels Blueprint: Create 30 reels in 20 minutes (No dance moves required) https://www.youtube.com/live/b8PvbmxA35U?feature=shared&t=7421https://hostagencyreviews.com/7DS-accelerator  (HAR’s 7 Day Setup Accelerator course with over 70 bite-sized videos, 87 lessons, and 48 resources to help you get your agency set up faster, with the support you need.)https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/travel-advisor-research-reports/ (Travel agent survey data on fee charging practices: what they charge for, how much, fee structures and more.)Levarte’s HAR profile with reviews and info (https://hostagencyreviews.com/hosts/levarte-travel)https://levartetravel.com/

In episode 175 Steph is co-hosting with Kendra Tainsh of Travel Edge! Here are the questions they cover in this variety-filled episode! 1. I am not in Canada -- is this still pertinent? I would, however love to speak to someone about how to narrow down the overwhelming selection of host agencies to find one that fits my niche. I am just starting out. My niche is environmental based trips in nature featuring hiking, snorkeling, scuba and just relaxing for those who want to.  --Robin R. 2. Hey, Long time listener first time caller, LOL. I am getting a new website and I want to list my advisor fee. Where do you recommend I list out the information of my advisor fee on my website.Thanks, –Quincy in Houston  3. I have an interest in working with boutique suppliers, especially accommodations such as boutique hotels and Bed and Breakfasts. I'm wondering how host agencies mix with boutique suppliers? Do they generally have these connections? Am I able to make these connections and book with these suppliers using my host agency’s IATA number? I heard from a friend that smaller, boutique suppliers don't like working with host agencies? Any truth to that? Looking forward to hearing your take. Thank you HAR team!   --LauraRESOURCES:SoftwareAll about preferred suppliers in the travel industry. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-preferred-supplier)Advice on how to find the best host agency. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/tips-on-how-to-find-the-best-travel-host-agency) https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/travel-advisor-research-reports/ (Travel agent survey data on fee charging practices: what they charge for, how much, fee structures and more.)https://bookitboxtravel.com/serviceshttps://www.travel-bash.com/faqs https://www.memoriesonthemovetravel.com/personalized-travel-planning-servicesAll about preferred suppliers in the travel industry. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-preferred-supplier)What is a DMC and what do they do? (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-dmc-destination-management-company)

In episode 174 Steph is co-hosting with Heather Kindred of Nexion! Check it out below – a record-breaking four questions that they’ll cover! Tune in this Friday at 12 pm CST. 1. What is defined as a FAM? Would I be able to describe it as a business trip on my tax filing? Do I have to have any official reports, etc.? –Anonymous2. Why are host agencies apprehensive about advisors having access to the GDS systems? Or they say it "takes years" to master? And with some hosts you have to have 2 or more years experience to qualify in order to have access. I used Sabre years ago and it only took a few months to learn and with Sabre Red 360 it seems easier than ever. Reentering the travel industry I have a corporate background and I will be temporarily booking air only until I learn leisure efficiently and using Sabre would be so much easier than using a CRM all I would need is a refresher in Sabre. Please help. Thank you.  –Robin B.3. Do you have a list of host agencies that have GDS access? —Anonymous4. Has anyone purchased any additional training courses beyond HAR's? HAR's has been great for getting me started. I would be lost without it! However, now, after being in business for about six months, I want to learn more, especially about marketing and growing my business. I want something that offers some certification along with a mentorship. In my research, I have found a wide range of costs. Do you have advice on picking a program to leap to next or any programs you love and have found helpful?  —AnonymousRESOURCES:What travel expenses you can (and can’t) write off. https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-expensesTravel Agent FAM Trips: What They Are + How to Find Them + Etiquette (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-fam-trip)Over 200+ travel agent rates and info on how to access themHow Travel Advisors Can Make the Most of a Cruise Ship Inspection (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/how-travel-agents-can-make-the-most-of-a-cruise-ship-inspection)The Definitive Site Inspection Checklist (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/definitive-site-inspection-checklist)Stephanie Cannon–CPA turned travel advisor–financial resources for advisors (https://withstephaniecannon.com/resources)In-depth information on what the GDS (global distribution system) is and which travel advisors use it. https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-gdsTips on how to become a corporate travel agent. https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/become-corporate-travel-agent What is a travel agency debit memo? (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agency-debit-memo)Host Agency List with filters for GDS and tons of other stuff! https://hostagencyreviews.com/hostsTraining and education options for travel agents. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-training-travel-agent-education)Travel Leaders of Tomorrow training program. (https://www.travelleadersoftomorrow.com/)

In episode 173 Steph and Lindsay Taylor answer a bunch of excellent questions submitted by you, our faithful viewers and listeners. If you have a question, by the way, send it our way at https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15! 1. Hello Friday 15 team! I live in Ontario Canada & my question is, how do I get into the travel industry as an advisor with no experience but have the schooling as well as TICO Certified? Thank you kindly for all you do!  –Chrystal M.2. I’ve decided to expand my agency and diversify income. I plan to open my host agency division soon. Do you have any tips for someone starting a host agency from scratch? —Anonymous3. Hi, I am wondering how to join 'preferred agency program' (e.g. Marriott Luminous, Hyatt Prive etc.). All the program says they are invitation-only but I am wondering what the general criteria is. Does joining a consortium help to become eligible? –AnonymousRESOURCES:HAR’s travel jobs board. Subscribe to weekly jobs email of new postings! (https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-jobs)ASTA’s Roadmap to Becoming a Travel Advisor is a fantastic course for those looking to have a strong foundation before starting in the industry! Steph partnered with ASTA on it and they have a track for employees, independent contractors (ICs), and corporate travel agents. (https://har.news/roadmap)ARC fraud protection resources (https://www2.arccorp.com/support-training/fraud-prevention)Veriff identity verification (https://www.veriff.com/)Older HAR blogs with some resources on credit card fraud and thinking like a frauster. A little dated, but still good content to read through.PATH: Professional Association of Travel Hosts (need to be 50 ICs or more to join)All about preferred suppliers in the travel industry. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-preferred-supplier)

In episode 172 Steph welcomes Carolyn Orf of KHM Travel as a co-host! They will cover a ton of helpful topics, including the following: 1. My friend and I are interested in launching an agency together. We each bring slightly different skill sets to the table and have already worked together and been students together (and have been close for decades). When evaluating host agencies we see that only Travel Quest / WorldVia host agency seems to have a membership option geared towards a two person agency. Do other host agencies have a way to structure things so that two advisors are working together under the same hosted agency, sharing their clients and working together towards revenue goals and tiers of membership? From the outside looking in it appears that if we went with an agency like Fora we'd each have to independently reach revenue goals to unlock certain perks and access. —Shannon A.2. What merchant account service should you use to take payments for bookings and what is the difference between Travefy, TravelJoy and Tern? Thank you!  –Robin B.3.  Hi Stephanie! I've been loving your podcast and all the content you provide. Thank you for all you do! I'm working through the 7 Day Setup Lite and am brainstorming a name for my agency. I came up with one I keep coming back to. I Googled it as you recommend and there is not much competition. Then I searched the trademark database and there are 3 trademarks similar to my name but they are all dead. Should I be concerned about using this name if all similar trademarks are dead? Don't want to give up this name unnecessarily but also don't want to set myself up for trouble down the road. How would you advise? Thanks so much for sharing your expertise! -AnonymousRESOURCES:Host Agency List of over 235 hosts with reviews from their travel advisor members. Travel Agent FAM Trips: What They Are + How to Find Them + Etiquette (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-fam-trip)Friday 15 with Tern on things to think about before going into a business partnership. Over 200+ travel agent rates and info on how to access themMore on Travefy (https://www.hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software/travefy)More on Tern (https://www.hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software/tern)More on TravelJoy (https://www.hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software/traveljoy) How Seller of Travel Laws Affect Service Fees. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/seller-travel-laws-service-fees)HAR’s brand new travel agency software profiles with software details and reviews! (https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-agency-software)Tips for choosing travel agency names + examples. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/tips-for-choosing-travel-agency-names) Scott Lund trademark/patent attorney (https://dbclaw.com/our-lawyers/scott-lund/)HAR’s 7 Day Setup LITE is a free online course that helps you start your agency. It does not have support and takes you through resources to help you make things happen. (https://www.hostagencyreviews.com/7-day-setup-lite)HAR’s 7 Day Setup Accelerator course with 70+ easily digestible videos, 48 exclusive resources, monthly live meetups with HAR team and others for support and accountability, + priority email support. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/7-day-setup-accelerator)Submit your very own Friday 15 questions here! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15

In episode 171 Steph co-hosts with Chad Burt of Outside Agents. Here’s the questions that they’ll cover: 1. Which host agency has the most organized training and accessible people if there are questions? –Joanne A.2. Hi! I decided I can practice doing property inspection locally. I printed out your questionnaire and intended to go through it. I asked for a manager’s name and said I want a tour. Is it a good idea for me to do it at the point where I am at right now? Maybe I should just chill? Should I be paying attention to anything specific since I am a total amateur at this point, except everything listed in your questionnaire? How should I be introducing myself. I mean - I already did… but how do the professionals do it? —Anonymous3. Which title should I use travel advisor or travel consultant and why? –Thanks, Jenn00:00 Welcome to the Friday 15 with Steph and Chad02:01 Most organized host agency?10:30 Property Inspections!17:01 Advisor or Consultant?RESOURCES:Hosted travel advisor report will go live soon! Pre-order here: https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/travel-advisor-research-reportsTPI Webinar: Holiday Travel: Do’s & Don’ts as a Selling Travel Advisor Wed. Sept. 4th, 1pm ET / 12pm CT / 11am MT / 10am PTFora Webinar: Scaling Success: Fora's Roadmap for Aspiring Travel Advisors Wed. Sept. 11th, 4pm ET / 3pm CT / 2pm MT / 1pm PTCheck out both events and others here! https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-conferences-eventsAdvice on how to find the best host agency. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/tips-on-how-to-find-the-best-travel-host-agency) Training and education options for travel agents. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-training-travel-agent-education)The Definitive Site Inspection Checklist (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/definitive-site-inspection-checklist)How Travel Advisors Can Make the Most of a Cruise Ship Inspection (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/how-travel-agents-can-make-the-most-of-a-cruise-ship-inspection)Travel Agent FAM Trips: What They Are + How to Find Them + Etiquette (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-fam-trip)What do travel agents do? And how do they do it? (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-do-travel-agents-do)HAR’s travel industry conferences and events calendar with over 100+ events! https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-conferences-eventsSubmit your very own Friday 15 questions here! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15

In episode 170 Steph cohosts with April Swales of Uniglobe Travel! They will tackle these questions, all provided by one curious listener this week! Thank you so much for all the wonderful resources on your website! If you don’t mind me asking you for advice..So I figured that I would be better off signing up with the Host Agency… I applied with 2 different ones and I'm gonna look into more. I can already see some obvious differences. Was wondering…1. Should I be worried if the company says, “they don’t do air bookings- they are booking the ground, for the most part..2. I realise that every Host agency has a different network. Even though I understand that I'm not supposed to go out of network if working in their system, if I am able to keep my own name and advertise as my own company, am I allowed to book with different networks of suppliers? As well as, “Is it at all possible to be affiliated with more than one HA, or is it completely unrealistic?” 3. In between 2 different agencies that I looked into - the difference in signing up price is $400 a year. I'm not sure how to evaluate all that they offer as to education and tools. What should I be particularly looking at? Also, do you think I could try them out for a month or two, then change the affiliation if I decide to? Are there any consequences to that? I guess I am a bit scared to get in with someone who I might not be able to work with…What is your advice on that?---Oksana N.RESOURCES: Hosted travel advisor report will go live soon! Pre-order here.The Hive Webinar: 10 things to ask a "new to you" DMC Thurs. Aug 29th, 2pm ET / 1pm CT / 12pm MT / 11am PTTPI Webinar: Holiday Travel: Do’s & Don’ts as a Selling Travel Advisor Wed. Sept. 4th, 1pm ET / 12pm CT / 11am MT / 10am PTAll about preferred suppliers in the travel industry. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-preferred-supplier)Options for booking air without the GDS system. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-gds)Belonging to more than one host agency: The pros and cons. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/belonging-to-more-than-one-host-agency)What to think about when switching host agencies. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/switching-host-agencies-5-things-to-consider)Things to look for in your contract with your host agency (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/independent-travel-agent-contracts)Submit your very own Friday 15 questions here! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15

In episode 169 Steph cohosts with Jenn Lee in her brand-new role at Vacation Planners! They will tackle some great questions, so please join us! 1. Hello, I would like to know about the host agency called MAGICAL VACATION PLANNER https://www.magicalvacationplanner.com/. I cannot find the reviews about this host agency on your list. Please help.Thank you  ---Rajan M.2. I understand some suppliers don't pay the host until after the travel date, but I've found some suppliers like FareBuzz, Celebrity Cruises, Virgin Voyages, and Allianz pay the month after the sale or after the final payment it's made. I also know some host agencies pay out to their agents weekly, bi-monthly, or monthly. I'm curious to know the industry standard for how soon after receipt of commission from the supplier would a host agency pay the independent agent.  ---Jen C.RESOURCES:Virtuoso Travel Week – Check out events cal and article on how to make the most of your travel conference. 5 Ways to Make Your Travel Conference Count (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/make-your-travel-conference-count)The Hive Webinar: How to curate a personalized selection of cruise itineraries for client proposals Wed. Aug 21st, 2pm ET / 1pm CT / 12pm MT / 11am PTThe Hive Webinar: 10 things to ask a "new to you" DMC Thurs. Aug 29th, 2pm ET / 1pm CT / 12pm MT / 11am PTTPI Webinar: Holiday Travel: Do’s & Don’ts as a Selling Travel Advisor Wed. Sept. 4th, 1pm ET / 12pm CT / 11am MT / 10am PTVacation Planner’s Webinar: Securing Your Legacy: The Crucial Role of Succession Planning for Travel Advisors Wed. Aug 21st, 2pm ET / 1pm CT / 12pm MT / 11am PTFind host agencies on HAR’s host agency list. It’s free to be listed! (https://www.hostagencyreviews.com/hosts)Tips on how to find the best host agency for you. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/tips-on-how-to-find-the-best-travel-host-agency)What to do if your host agency isn’t paying commissions. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/host-agency-not-paying-commissions)All about travel agent commissions, including airline commissions. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-commissions)Things to look for in your contract with your host agency (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/independent-travel-agent-contracts)[email protected] Planners Host Agency Reviews profile (https://www.hostagencyreviews.com/hosts/vacation-planners)Vacation Planners website (https://vacationplannersfranchise.com/)Tern (https://www.tern.travel/)Travel Agency Franchise or Host Agency? A breakdown. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agency-franchise-or-host-agency)Submit your very own Friday 15 questions here! https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15

In episode 168 Steph cohosts with Kendra from Travel Edge. They’ve got some excellent questions to cover this week, everything from CRMs to autism to non-profits. Tune in! 1. Can you provide any insight about ClientBase? My agency uses it as the CRM and the record for commission, and I hate it. IMO, it is antiquated and clunky and is the worst part of my job. Dramatic, I know. But the web-based version I have wastes my time and it's very unhelpful to me. It's all about getting paid by the host agency.  Do all host agencies work off of this ClientBase system? I like my agency, but I would consider a change if there are agencies out there that connect directly to the vendors so I'm not doing so much data entry. Or, even if they don't connect directly, maybe their CRM systems are more useful. Thank you, Thank you for all you do!  –-K 2. Do you have any resources for adults with autism who want to travel? The biggest issue I have is low stamina when things are too overwhelming. My concern is, what if I run into a place that feels too busy, stay too long for some reason, and then the subway or some form of public transit is in-between me and my hotel.Sorry, it's so hard to find travel tips and resources for adults with disabilities sometimes!   –Anonymous3. I volunteer for a non-profit that sends missionaries overseas and they want me to book airline tickets. Are there special fares for missionaries? Will joining a host agency mean I can book airline tickets? –AnonymousRESOURCES:COMING (very) SOON at HAR! Travel Agency Software profiles What is a travel agency debit memo? Yates Travel Design: Travel Edge agency specializing in autism travel Austism Checked: Site with autism friendly travel companies + training for travel agents. Travel is for Everyone: Why I specialize in travel with autism: Hear tips on traveling with autism from Dina Farmer, an advisor specializing in it. International Board of Creditionally and Continuing Education: Autism certification for travel advisors. In-depth information on what the global distribution system (GDS) is and which travel advisors use it. In-depth information on what the global distribution system (GDS) is and which travel advisors use it. Submit your very own Friday 15 questions here! F15?

In episode 167 Steph hosts the Friday 15, all about Disney and seller of travel. Chad Burt of Outside Agents also pops in! 1. I am a new agent as of early spring 2024, so I am just getting my business known out into my community. I do live on a relatively small island in the PNW so I am excited to help facilitate tropical winter trips for the people who live here year round. I just signed on with the Chamber of Commerce so I am looking forward to getting more exposure in my community. Though I am excited to book tropical vacations, I am extra enthusiastic about booking Disney trips and specifically Disney World vacations since booking a trip can be complex with all of the various components. I love the parks and resorts and think I could be very helpful to potential clients but I am worried there aren't enough Disney goers in my local community.  Do you all have any tips or suggestions for gathering Disney clients specifically? I do have a group set up on Facebook called "Tropical Getaways and Disney Days" but so far all members are family and friends. Thank you! —Shandra A. 2. Should I seek out a host agency if I live in WA state that adheres to WA seller of travel laws? ---AnonymousRESOURCES:https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-business-press-release-templates-and-guide (Press release templates and guide to writing!)https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/best-disney-travel-agents-booking-secrets (Best Disney Travel Agents Share their Booking Secrets)https://hostagencyreviews.com/travelagentchatter/amy-garner-wicked-travel-concierage (TAC episode with Amy Garner who focuses on accessibility and Disney when she started)https://hostagencyreviews.com/travelagentchatter/vol-22-laurie-burg-cupcakes-castle-travel-company (TAC episode with Laurie Burg on how she systematized booking Disney)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tn4S0mV4zMk&t=9850s (Host Week 2023 session on The Marketing Playbook with Erica Carr)https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=acWJe1gyY5U&t=18945s (Host Week 2023 session on 5 Steps to Building a Marketing Plan with Christine Hardenberger)https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/the-100-travel-agency-marketing-plan ($100 Marketing Plan)https://www.youtube.com/live/b8PvbmxA35U?feature=shared&t=7421 (Host Week 2024 session on Reels Blueprint: Create 30 reels in 20 minutes)https://www.youtube.com/live/tT7cHbr_y-g?feature=shared&t=18225 (Host Week 2024 session Storytelling to Sell with Aubrey Jackson)https://sourceofsources.com/ (The new HARO!)https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-license-seller-of-travel-license#WA (Details on Seller of Travel registration for Washington)https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 (Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering!) 

In episode 166 Steph is co-hosting with Chad Burt of Outside Agents. Here are the questions they’ll tackle together this week! 1. I'm currently doing The Travel Institute’s TripKit course. Should I complete the CTA course before I start contacting host agencies? Also, what CTA course do you recommend (The Travel Institute, ASTA, etc…)  ---Anonymous 2. I'm interested in learning more about utilizing press releases for attendance of industry events and/or FAMS. How would you recommend doing that? ---AnonymousRESOURCES:https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-certification (What travel agent certification is and isn’t. Plus, what are the certifications out there for agents?)https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-business-press-release-templates-and-guide https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-fam-trip (Travel Agent FAM Trips: What They Are + How to Find Them + Etiquette)https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/how-travel-agents-can-make-the-most-of-a-cruise-ship-inspection (How Travel Advisors Can Make the Most of a Cruise Ship Inspection)https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/how-travel-agents-can-make-the-most-of-a-cruise-ship-inspection (The Definitive Site Inspection Checklist)https://form.jotform.com/241655302194150 (Become a HAR subject matter expert! Fill out the form and get quoted or appear in future HAR resources.)https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 (Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering!) 

****** Transcript + Show Notes: https://har.news/vol30 ******Special thanks to today’s sponsors: Travel Edge and Uniglobe Travel CenterToday’s guest got her start in the industry with the inside sales team at Travel Impressions. After a reorg, Veranda Adkins decided to start her own agency, Travel Legacy. She gave herself 6 months to see if she could make things work. She’s yet to look back. Having been in the shoes of a supplier, Veranda tells us how advisors—even those just started out—can strengthen supplier relationships to help grow their agency.Celebrating 10 years of business, Veranda has grown her agency to an impressive $1.5M in annual sales. In the past decade, she’s evolved from selling mainly cruises to now doing destination weddings as well as escorting 8-10 groups a year around the world. A firm believer in “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”, Veranda focuses her destination wedding business with one supplier, resulting in an elite status that helps to ensure her clients have an amazing stay AND results in a client satisfaction rate of 99%. And for those feeling like work encroaches on their personal life way more than they’d like, our guest has managed to find the work-life balance that eludes many entrepreneurs. She shares with us how avoiding FITs is part of her strategy to ensure she continues to love her job and has downtime to rejuvenate. You’ll hear how to avoid losing your business Facebook page after a hack. From first hand experience, Veranda gives us two simple fail-safes so you can avoid the heartache and hassle she experienced.Join us as we dig into groups with our globetrotting guest!

In episode 165 Steph is co-hosting David Meihoefer of Travel Planners International. Here’s a taste of the questions they’ll cover! 1. Hello, as a founding partner of an IATA accredited travel agency with plans to move to the United States by the end of the summer to operate from home, will I still have to go through all the stages of ARC-IATAN? Could HAR provide me with end-to-end support in this regard considering your 7 day agency setup program? Thanks & Regards.  —Roland Y. 2. Before I started my travel agency I created a few Facebook groups to get the ball rolling. I have 5 groups currently all specific to Royal Caribbean and their ships. Combined they have over 120k members and growing daily. It's a fantastic source for leads. This is where my question comes in. They are all public groups and in the rules it states "Pirates be Gone" no selling or promoting business within the groups. I have many many travel agents doing whatever they can to get leads from the groups. I have had to remove members, ban members for just doing their jobs as travel agents. Some are vultures and it's ridiculous. How do I handle this? I do not want to remove anyone, we all learn from these groups, we all make connections but I also put in 100s of hours creating content and managing these spaces to benefit my own agency. Is there a happy medium? We are new to the travel industry and it really stinks watching others swoop in and take potential sales away. We have had some downright nasty messages come through because of this, but we have also had some very nice messages with people willing to help. Any feedback you can provide would be great. Thank you for all of the incredible information you have provided, it has been invaluable. Thank you, TravisRESOURCES:https://hostagencyreviews.com/7DS-accelerator (HAR’s 7 Day Setup Accelerator course on starting your agency)https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/iata-number (What is an IATA number?) https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-certification (What travel agent certification is and isn’t. Plus, what are the certifications out there for agents?)https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agency-accreditation (A list of the different travel agent accreditation options.)https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-an-arc-number (What is an ARC number?)https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-leads (How to build a client base and find leads)https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/top-4-travel-agency-marketing-tools (Promoting your travel agency on social media with these tools) https://hostagencyreviews.com/hosts/travel-planners-international(Travel Planners International’s profile on HAR) https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 (Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering!) 

In episode 164 Steph is co-hosting again with Lindsay Taylor of Travel Leaders 365. Have a look at the questions below that they cover in this rich and informative edition of the Friday 15! Submit your questions + sign up for e-reminders for the upcoming F15 questions!QUESTIONS1. Hi Steph. I worked as a Travel Manager at my previous company, however, it was a created position and I used a combination of Concur, Expedia, Hotels.com, National Car rental and all the other sites. I loved this position but it all went away during Covid. Now, I'd like to get back into it but everything I'm interested in requires some Sabre experience. I know it's easy and I know I could do it but do you think it's worth taking the 60 hour course with The Travel Institute? Is there a better place to obtain this training? It could add a few lines on my resume and I'm great with self-study. $149 doesn't seem high for getting some experience. What are your thoughts? Thanks for your time! :) —Anonymous 2. Hi Steph. I have a diploma from Penn Foster and when I look at the CTA, I feel like I've already done all of the same lessons. Is it better to have one of these certifications over the diploma I've already received? Are these just better recognized and received by people in the industry and clients? It seems like these have a more elevated status over my diploma. Is that the case? —Anonymous3. I refunded a non refundable ticket by accident. The agency paid it back but now I'm on the hook for over $6000. The airline does not reverse the transaction so the traveler has a credit. Have you ever worked with this? I would like to find out how this is even legal? —Anonymous RESOURCES:In-depth information on what the GDS, global distribution system, is and which travel advisors use it. Travel Institute’s programTips on how to become a corporate travel agentTAC episode with Molly WilliamsWhat travel agent certification is and isn’t. Plus, what are the certifications out there for agents?What is a travel agency debit memo?In-depth information on what the GDS, global distribution system, is and which travel advisors use it.TL 365’s HAR profileTL 365’s [email protected] (Lindsay’s email address)

In episode 163 Steph is co-hosting with Lindsay Taylor of Travel Leaders 365, If you have a question for Steph and her co-hosts, please submit it here for a future episode: https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 !1. I work as an independent contractor so I already have an LLC for non travel related business. I was wondering if I could just add a "second" DBA and use the same LLC to start the travel business but continue to work on my full time job as another name. So basically 2 DBAs under one LLC? I live in Florida. Thanks! —Anonymous 2. Hello, so I live in the US and want to help people in Guyana, South America purchase flights to travel to and from the US and charge a small fee. I want to use sites like Priceline and Expedia and Booking to purchase the flights. Sort of an off the books business. Is this possible? —Mike S. 3. Hi, I’m curious about startup/yearly/monthly fees. I keep reading that it's a red flag if a travel host charges. In your opinion and experience, what do you want to look for when searching for a host? Thanks! –Jamie K.RESOURCES: (The options for your travel agency’s business structure — pros and cons) (Travel agent survey data on fee charging practices: what they charge for, how much, fee structures and more.) (Travel agent survey data on fee charging practices: what they charge for, how much, fee structures and more.) (ARC’s fraud prevention webinar) (What is a travel agency debit memo?) (In-depth information on what the GDS, global distribution system, is and which travel advisors use it.) (TL 365’s HAR profile) (TL 365’s website)[email protected] (Lindsay’s email address) (Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering!)

In episode 162 Steph Lee is joined by Chad Burt of Outside Agents. We’ve got some great questions from you all. Speaking of – if you have a question for Steph and her co-hosts, please submit it here for a future episode: https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15 !1. Do the airlines still give commissions on flights? If not, what is the benefit of an $2300 ARC #? —Anonymous 2. Hello! I have a quick question about workflows. If you have a travel services agreement, is it better to have clients sign that before or after you send quotes/proposals? I don't want to scare clients away before they see options, but I also don't want to waste my time! —Kristin R. RESOURCES: (Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering!) (Friday 15 going over benefits of GDS system) (In-depth information on what the GDS, global distribution system, is and which travel advisors use it.) (What is an ARC number?) (A list of the different travel agent accreditation options.) (All about travel agent commissions, including airline commissions.) (Explainer of what a host agency is) (Travel agent survey data on fee charging practices: what they charge for, how much, fee structures and more.) (How to qualify clients and recordings of real travel advisor conversations to qualify their clients) (Free travel agent forms from HAR) (Travel waiver forms from HAR)

In episode 161 Steph is co-hosting with Lori Speers of Levarte Travel! We’ve got some great questions, so make sure you set aside the time to tune in this week! (Also, ICYMI, all of our podcasts are archived, so you can listen at your leisure!) QUESTIONS :1. I recently joined a host agency (exactly 1 month ago) and I do a ton of research but somehow I feel more lost every day. I feel a little overwhelmed with so much information and access out there that my brain is freezing. I don't know where to start off so I am doing all at the same time and freaking out. Do you have a "step list" of what to do first that you would recommend? - Build a website, contracts, forms, services guide, social media, training (do I prioritize supplier training or destinations?) I have a business and social media account set up and going but I am a mess behind it all. I would like to say thank you for making this website such a welcoming place where I feel comfortable asking beginner questions. TIA! —Camila S. 2. What I'm still not clear on are things like this: how do I present options and prices to a client, and give them time to make a decision? Am I supposed to reserve all of the options first to guarantee the price, and then cancel the discarded options afterward? Or do you just present it and hope the prices don't change in the meantime? Are there other good places to find tips or suggestions for effective booking practices? --Christopher M.RESOURCES: (Submit questions, sign up for reminders for the F15, along with that week's questions we'll be covering!) (How to qualify clients with 3 real life examples of advisors qualifying clients) (What the heck is a tour operator, anyhow? We have answers.) (Apple Leisure Group Pro training) (How to ask your travel peers questions on social media) (Best travel itinerary builders and comparison sheet) (Free travel itinerary template for travel advisors) (How to qualify clients and recordings of real travel advisor conversations to qualify their clients) (Levarte’s HAR profile) (Levarte’s website)

In episode 160 Steph is co-hosting with April Swales of Uniglobe! Please join us as this dynamic duo tackles a couple of important questions!QUESTIONS :1. I was wondering if I could pick your brain a little about the current status of the industry, the possibilities of finding someone interested in buying an agency, and what makes a travel agency attractive for a potential buyer. My mother isn't ready to stop working as an agent and loves helping her clients but I could see it being a good exit strategy for her in the near future. —Nathan2. I went to an actual school in 1988 on the Sabre system. Do you know if there are courses that might bring me up to speed & how much they cost?I spoke with IATAN & ARC today. It's not as expensive as I thought it'd be but I'd still like to start off maybe working with a national agency for a while first. Thoughts? —AnonymousTODAY’S RESOURCES: (Host Week presentation with Steph and Marc Casto on selling an agency)https://www.tvlacq.com/ (Broker specializing in travel agencies/tour operators)https://www.score.org/resource/eguide/small-business-owner’s-guide-succession-planninghttps://www.trinet.com/insights/small-business-succession-plan-101https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/general-guide-succession-planning-small-business-c-suitesupport (Tips on how to become a corporate travel agent with links to Sabre trainings.) (A list of the different travel agent accreditation options.) (Find travel agent jobs on HAR’s travel jobs board!) (Info on how much travel agents make) (Travel Leaders of Tomorrow is only accepting students who have already secured a job with an agency but are in need of training.) (In-depth information on what the GDS, global distribution system, is and which travel advisors use it.)https://www.thetravelinstitute.com/product/sabre-personal-trainer/https://your.sabre.com/sabretraininghttps://www.linkedin.com/advice/3/what-most-important-gds-training-resources-travel-ihklf

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