mission of a travel agent

Our mission, vision and values

Our vision is the future we want to achieve. Our mission is what we do every day to bring that vision to life.

Helping people and companies travel smart and achieve more

Solve it together

Collaboration connects us. There’s no problem so tough that we can’t tackle it together. Working as a team, we harness the wisdom (and energy!) of the crowd.

Act with purpose

We embrace change and foster innovation. Our creativity and drive are positively contagious – and they get results.

Do what’s right

We operate openly and foster transparency. Our team members, clients and communities always know where we stand.

Give your best

Passion powers us. We believe the only way to do great work is to love what you do. We’re inspired by the people and places around us.

Feed the future

When we give others the tools, skills and opportunities to succeed, they flourish. When we give ourselves the same, we’re unstoppable.

Our commitment to diversity and inclusion

Experience shows that our differences fuel innovation for our company, clients and communities. We bring different voices, backgrounds and perspectives into our workforce—and nurture and celebrate them once they’re here. We treat everyone with respect, dignity and fairness. We empower each person to develop their Confident Self to the fullest. We’re committed to making a positive impact in the lives of others.

A message from our Global Executive Team

As a travel company, we exist to bring people together. When people come together, they create opportunities for shared experience, dialogue, and growth.

Around the world, civil protests against ongoing social injustices continue to highlight the stark inequalities that prevent some people from being empowered participants in these opportunities.

As a company, we’ve traditionally stayed out of public debate on social issues; our focus has been on the work of providing a safe, respectful and inclusive work environment for all our people. However, in an atmosphere of heightened awareness and involvement, we believe it’s important to add our voices to the discussion and share our perspective with you.

We can’t all personally understand the experiences of those who are affected by social injustice—but we can all have the empathy to understand that these inequalities can’t be tolerated. We wholeheartedly support all those who press for justice, and we are saddened by those few whose violent and destructive actions distract from the importance of the issues at hand. And we stand with the individual members of our BCD family around the world who have been directly or indirectly affected by far-reaching legacies of inequality.

BCD’s commitment to diversity and inclusion is longstanding. We recognize that we must always strive to do better by our people and our communities, and that our work in this area can never be “done.” As part of that discussion, we’re challenging ourselves to further listen and strengthen our approach to a diverse and inclusive workplace. From offering our people additional training and resources to re-evaluating the impact of our initiatives, we’re committed to moving forward in the spirit of humanity and humility.

Our commitment is rooted in our core values. In tackling tough challenges as a team (Solve it together), driving change (Act with purpose), advocating for justice (Do what’s right), making things happen (Give your best) and empowering ourselves and others (Feed the future), we move toward a better tomorrow.

We truly believe that social injustice and the COVID pandemic are linked by what they represent: Both reveal an infection we have yet to overcome. We all have a role to play in fighting the infection. And it’s only by embracing that role that we—and our communities—will flourish.

About BCD Travel

BCD Travel helps companies travel smart and achieve more. We drive program adoption, cost savings and talent retention through digital experiences that simplify business travel. Our 15,000+ dedicated team members service clients in 170+ countries as we shape a sustainable future for business travel. BCD’s leading meetings and events management and global consultancy services complete our comprehensive suite of solutions for all aspects of corporate travel. In 2023, BCD achieved US$20.3 billion in sales. For more information, visit www.bcdtravel.com .

Best Mission Statements Examples [for Travel & Accommodation]

By Status.net Editorial Team on March 14, 2023 — 5 minutes to read

Travel and accommodation companies have a unique opportunity to create vision and mission statements that reflect their commitment to providing customers with exceptional service. A good mission statement should encompass the company’s values, goals, and objectives for providing quality travel and accommodation services and the company’s commitment to making sure that its customers have an enjoyable experience from start to finish.

How do you write a good mission statement?

Crafting a strong mission statement can help your organization stay focused, articulate its values, and attract the right people and resources. Writing a good mission statement requires thoughtful research, reflection and communication with stakeholders.

• 1. Clarify Your Purpose: Think about why your organization exists, its core values and objectives.
• 2. Identify Your Audience: Consider who you are trying to reach with your mission statement, such as customers, employees or the general public.
• 3. Brainstorm Descriptive Words and Phrases: Think of words and phrases that accurately describe your organization’s purpose, values and goals.
• 4. Combine the Words to Create Your Mission Statement: Combine the words and phrases you brainstormed into a concise statement that expresses your mission.
• 5. Have Others Review It: Have other people review your mission statement to ensure it accurately reflects your organization.

Learn more: How to Create a Perfect Company Mission, Vision, Values Statement? (Awesome Template) In this article you will find vision and mission statements examples for companies that fall into the following industries:

A company in the travel industry is a business that provides services related to travel and tourism. This can include anything from booking transportation and accommodations, to organizing activities and excursions. These companies work to make sure their customers have an enjoyable and stress-free experience when they travel. They may offer a range of services, including flights, cars, hotels, tours, cruises, and also they may help with visas and other paperwork required for international travel. Sometimes travel companies also help customers with packing suggestions and tips on what to expect while traveling. With the world becoming increasingly connected, more people are choosing to explore new places, and companies in the travel industry are well-positioned to meet this growing demand.

Accommodation

An accommodation company is a business that provides lodging and other services for travelers and those on vacation. Accommodation companies can be of various sizes and might provide anything from basic bed and breakfast services to luxury resorts. They usually offer a variety of services such as providing meals, arranging transportation, arranging tours, providing entertainment, and more. Accommodation companies are typically run by skilled professionals who understand the hospitality industry and are knowledgeable about the different types of accommodation available to guests. Accommodation companies may provide their own premises or may work with hotels, motels, resorts, and other lodging providers to ensure their guests receive the best services possible. Accommodation companies also have to deal with different regulations related to their offerings and must stay up-to-date with changes in the hospitality industry. This ensures that the accommodation they provide is safe, clean, and up to the standards of their guests. Accommodation companies strive to provide a pleasant experience for their clients by ensuring they are satisfied with their stay.

See also: 20+ Core Values: Examples for Travel and Accommodation Companies

Samples of Vision and Mission Statements: Travel and Accommodation Companies

Dedication to the highest quality of Customer Service delivered with a sense of warmth, friendliness, individual pride, and Company Spirit .

To provide authentic hospitality by making a difference in the lives of the people we touch every day.

TripAdvisor

To help people around the world plan and have the perfect trip .

Virgin America

Virgin America is a California-based airline that is on a mission to make flying good again , with brand new planes, attractive fares, top-notch service, and a host of fun, innovative amenities that are reinventing domestic air travel.

Fairmont Hotels & Resorts

Turning moments into memories for our guests.

Hilton Worldwide

To be the preeminent global hospitality company – the first choice of guests, team members, and owners alike .

Virgin Atlantic

To embrace the human spirit and let it fly.

To offer travelers a reliable, innovative and fun airline to travel in Central America.

MGM MIRAGE (NYSE: MGM) , one of the world’s leading and most respected hotel and gaming companies, owns and operates 24 properties located in Nevada, Mississippi and Michigan, and has investments in four other properties in Nevada, New Jersey, Illinois and the United Kingdom. MGM MIRAGE has also announced plans to develop Project CityCenter , a multi-billion dollar mixed-use urban development project in the heart of Las Vegas, and has a 50 percent interest in MGM Grand Macau, a development project in Macau S.A.R. MGM MIRAGE supports responsible gaming and has implemented the American Gaming Association’s Code of Conduct for Responsible Gaming at its properties. MGM MIRAGE also has been the recipient of numerous awards and recognitions for its industry-leading Diversity Initiative and its community philanthropy programs. For more information about MGM MIRAGE, please visit the company’s website at www.mgmmirage.com.

Workforce diversity gives us access to a world of different ideas and perspectives. Northwest Airlines is committed to maintaining a corporate culture where men and women of all ages, races, physical abilities, preferences and backgrounds are treated with dignity and respect. At Northwest Airlines we recognize that when diversity is valued and respected the results are improved service, customer satisfaction and a positive community image . We believe our employees make a world of difference and work to maintain an environment where diversity and inclusion is a critical component of our success. Our Diversity Vision To build a high performing environment where individual differences and contributions of employees, customers and business partners are respected and valued, the result of which is a business organization where fairness, trust and integrity govern relationships and the way we do business.

Ritz-Carlton

The Credo : The Ritz-Carlton Hotel is a place where the genuine care and comfort of our guests is our highest mission.

We pledge to provide the finest personal service and facilities for our guests who will always enjoy a warm, relaxed, yet refined ambience .

The Ritz-Carlton experience enlivens the senses, instills well-being, and fulfills even the unexpressed wishes and needs of our guests.

Motto : At The Ritz-Carlton Hotel Company, L.L.C., “ We are ladies and gentlemen serving ladies and gentlemen .” This motto exemplifies the anticipatory service provided by all staff members.

See also: 20+ Core Values: Examples for Travel and Accommodation Companies 1500+ Best Company Vision and Mission Statements by Industry 250+ Best Inspirational Company Core Values

• 20+ Core Values: Examples for Travel and Accommodation Companies
• Best Mission Statements Examples [Energy and Chemicals]
• Best Mission Statements Examples [Construction & Production]
• Are Mission and Vision Statements Still Relevant?
• Best Mission Statements Examples [for Real Estate Companies]
• Best Mission Statements Examples [for Insurance Companies]

Community tours

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AUSTRALIA DESTINATIONS

Who Are We?

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• Start Your Adventure

Our Misson, Vision & Values

Travelling and connecting with places and people is so important to us, it’s the cornerstone of why Welcome to Travel exists.

We believe that travelling broadens the mind and changes the way you think. The people you meet and the experiences you have give you an improved ability to empathise with different situations and people.

Travel is the best way to learn about the world and how it works. Our experiences both travelling and working in travel have led us to where we are today, and to Welcome to Travel’s Mission Statement, Vision Statement and Values.

Our Mission

Through travel, we connect people to positive experiences enabling them to see the world differently.

To create a world where everyone is encouraged to travel.

Aim for positive

Quality always wins, community is key, encourage growth, lead by example, value every relationship, back yourself, do what is right.

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• 6b 300 King Street, Melbourne, VIC, 3000
• 812B, George Street, Sydney, NSW, 2000

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Missionary Travel Agency

When God’s call takes you around the world, a call to Golden Rule will take you there.

We understand the importance of being called to the mission field, and we know you need the best way to get there. Whether you’re taking a short-term mission trip or moving abroad to serve the Lord, we can help. By making your travel arrangements our top priority, we free you to direct your energies where they are most needed.

We would be honored to serve you! Contact us today for a free airfare quote!

We appreciate all the efforts you put into making travel arrangements for us! It’s nice to have someone take care of this who understands and takes an interest in our mission. God bless you!

Deborah Missionary in El Salvador

24/7 emergency customer service

In times of travel turmoil—delayed flights, denied boarding, or endless lines—our mission travel office stands by you, even if it means waking us up in the middle of the night. Have peace of mind with an expert who is on your side.

Extra free bags

Our missionary fares give up to 3 free checked bags. This can be a $500+ value and is perfect for taking supplies to the mission field.

Refundable & Changeable

Our humanitarian airfares are refundable and changeable for a reasonable penalty

Missionary Travel Department

Our Christian travel agents are honored to help travelers fulfill the Great Commission. Our team is composed of dedicated Christians, many with backgrounds in missions, church ministry, and education. As a company, we’ve provided ministry travel services for thousands of churches, missionaries, and church mission groups . Our travel agents understand your needs and want to use our experience in the travel industry to give you best travel experience possible. We specialize in international missionary flights.

Get A Quote

• Destination *
• # of Travelers *
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Missionary Airfare Luggage Allowance

Our missionary airfares, which are mostly available on Latin & transatlantic flights (and within Europe, Africa, and the Middle East), usually include 2-3 free checked bags. In today’s world of basic economy fares including no checked baggage at all, this can be a benefit worth more than $500!

Cheap Flights for Missionaries

If you’re looking for cheap missionary fares, you’ve come to the right place! We offer discount missionary airfare with special pricing on flights. Sometimes we can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars with discounted flights! But usually our prices are similar to online fares, but with far better terms and customer service.

Missionary Flights to Africa (including Uganda & Kenya)

Africa is our top destination. We do a lot of tickets for missionaries to Entebbe, Uganda and Nairobi, Kenya especially.

Missionary Fares to India

India is another very common destination for our non-profit and humanitarian NGO customers.

Missionary Fares to Japan

We offer a full set of missionary airfare to Japan transatlantic and a limited set of fares transpacific.

Missionary Flights to Haiti

Sadly, American Airlines has discontinued their humanitarian airfare to Haiti. We still serve dozens of Haiti NGOs who came for the extra bags, but stayed for the customer service. If you let us know how many bags you’re taking, we will advise you on the best total cost of flights including extra bags as there is a complicated mix of luggage rules and overages.

We can also refer you to private missionary flights from Port-au-Prince to other parts of Haiti, which is usually used by our missionary organizations due to the current security situation in PAP.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which airlines offers missionary fares.

The following airlines provide missionary, humanitarian, non-profit fares:

• Delta Airlines, KLM, Air France
• United Airlines, Lufthansa, Austrian, SWISS, Brussels, Air Canada
• Qatar Airways
• Kenya Airways
• Ethiopian Airlines

Sadly, American Airlines, British Airways, and Iberia have discontinued their missionary contracts.

What Consolidator sells Missionary Fares?

We are one of the foremost consolidators in the US that sells missionary fares to other travel agencies. If you are interested in applying to be a partner agency, please email [email protected] . We carefully vet and audit our travel agency partners to ensure the tickets are only being sold to non-profit organizations.

What is missionary travel?

Short-term mission trips offer a chance to volunteer internationally, working closely with local communities to offer vital support where it’s needed the most. Long-term missionaries also need to travel back and forth between their home country and their mission field on a regular basis.

How much does it cost to go on a short-term mission trip?

Typical costs range from $900 to $5000 depending on the destination. For example, one of our favorite clients is OneWorld Health who focuses on medical missions. They have trips ranging from $2300 to $5000 in cost.

Who pays for missionary trips?

Short-term mission trips are either paid out of participants’ own pockets or sometimes they fundraise from family, friends, and church to help cover part of the cost.

Long-term missionaries are typically supported by some mix of their local church and the parachurch mission organization they are under.

Why do people go on missionary trips?

Most folks testify that going on a mission trip is life-changing. The three main reasons to go on a short-term mission trip:

• To Glorify God: Putting our faith into action
• To Help Others: To make a difference, serve others, and serve those who serve
• To Change Ourselves: Hands-on experience with The Great Commission and learning about other cultures

What not to do on a mission trip?

The Baptist Missionary Association of America has this excellent list of “don’ts” for a summer mission trip :

• DON’T make promises to missionaries/people that you can’t fulfill immediately.
• DON’T go anywhere alone.
• DON’T eat uncooked vegetables and fruits that are not peeled.
• DON’T gossip.
• DON’T criticize your hosts culture or the United States.
• DON’T pursue a romantic relationship with anyone on your team or at your mission site. You can date them when you get home.
• DON’T be afraid to try local food.
• DON’T make financial commitments during your good-byes.
• DON’T complain about anything! Keep a positive attitude. (Philippians 2:14)

Read the whole list for a great set of DO’s as well!

Story and Mission

We are the world's largest association of travel professionals and the leading global advocate for travel advisors, the travel industry and the traveling public. Our members include travel advisors and the companies whose products they sell from air, tours and safaris to cruises, hotels, resorts, rental cars and more.

Our story begins in 1931 when ASTA was founded as the American Steamship & Tourist Agents Association. As modes of travel evolved, so did ASTA, widening our focus and renaming ourselves the American Society of Travel Agents in 1944. Then, reflecting the shift from booking agent to trusted advisor, in 2018, ASTA became the American Society of Travel Advisors.

Our members are bound by a shared code of ethics and the ASTA logo is recognized around the world as a symbol of professionalism and integrity. 

OUR MISSION

ASTA’s over-arching mission is to facilitate the business of selling travel through effective representation, shared knowledge and the enhancement of professionalism. We are also the leading advocate for travel advisors and the entire travel agency community, including suppliers and the traveling public. 

From the start, carrying out our mission has meant promoting professionalism and advocating with legislators and suppliers for our members, our industry and the traveling public. Because travelers depend on travel advisors and others affiliated with ASTA to guide them honestly and competently, ASTA members are required to conduct their business activities in accordance with the ASTA Code of Ethics. This promotes  professionalism in the industry and trust among the general public.

The COVID-19 crisis serves as a great example of our mission in action. Travel advisors were among the true heroes of the pandemic, working tirelessly to get stranded clients home when flights and borders were shut down and helping clients deal with pandemic-related cancelations, schedule changes and the ever-shifting rules and regulations around the world. Because of the economics of the industry, travel advisors workloads grew exponentially at the same time that their commission payments were being delayed, slashed. and too often, wiped out.

One of the reasons many agencies and advisors could survive and continue serving the traveling public was that behind the scenes, ASTA was fulfilling its advocacy role as champion of the travel agency community  Thanks to our advocacy team and the support of our member-volunteers, ASTA successfully persuaded Congress to include travel agencies in the industries covered under the CARES Act and receive Paycheck Protection (PPP) and Employee Retention Tax Credit (ERTC) funding and to enable independent contractors to receive unemployment benefits for the first time ever. 

The pandemic also kicked our role as educators into high gear as our team produced live and taped webinars and live Q&A sessions that helped the travel agency community understand and navigate the red tape to access these funds. We also provided lists of official resources so our members could stay on top of the latest CDC guidance and other information vital to our members and their clients.

Our rich educational programing continues to help keep travel advisors at the top of their game and promotes professionalism via courses on everything from accounting and artificial intelligence to marketing and social media. Verified Travel Advisor ( VTA) certification is the pinnacle of our training, and brings added benefits to advisors and helps promote confidence among consumers. Our mission also extends to educating the travel and consumer media and the general public about the value of using a travel advisor, and we work closely with the media every day to ensure that our story is being told. The need for a travel advisor was never more apparent than during the pandemic, and our public relations team shared the stories of the many travel advisors who went above and beyond in a  "Not All Heroes Wear Capes" #TravelHero campaign.

Our outreach to the general public takes a big step with our new website, where travelers can search our directory for travel advisors who match their needs, submit a trip request which will be forwarded as leads to members, or opt to use a Verified Travel Advisor (VTA) and explore destinations and find expert travel advice featuring our members.

Global Support

Together, we are more powerful. Just as we come together as a Society to achieve our goals, ASTA collaborates with other organizations for the greater good.

World Committee on Tourism Ethics  (WCTE)

ASTA is a signatory to the  Private Sector Commitment to the UNWTO Global Code of Ethics for Tourism . In signing the commitment, companies pledge to uphold, promote and implement the values of responsible and sustainable tourism development championed by the Code. A special focus on social, cultural and economic matters is one of the main objectives of the Commitment, which draws particular attention to issues such as human rights, social inclusion, gender equality, accessibility, and the protection of vulnerable groups and host communities. The Society encourages its members to read the UNWTO Global Code of Ethics for Tourism and implement these principles in their business practices.  

Wildlife Trafficking Alliance  

ASTA joined the U.S. Wildlife Trafficking Alliance  to help travelers recognize and avoid purchasing the illegal wildlife products that are decimating global populations of elephants, rhinos, tortoises, and other endangered species. This public-private partnership works together with governmental entities to raise awareness about the dangers of wildlife trafficking and to stop consumer demand for endangered species products.

Protection of Children from Sexual Exploitation in Travel and Tourism

ASTA supports the travel industry in the ongoing battle against child sex tourism with its adoption of the  Code of Conduct for the Protection of Children from Sexual Exploitation in Travel and Tourism .  The Society encourages its members to support measures taken to counter the exploitation of women and children.

Proud Partners

We are grateful to our most supportive partners, ASTA Proud Partners. Recognizing how important travel advisors are to their success, these companies invest their time and resources to support ASTA’s mission and ensure a healthy and robust travel agency distribution channel.

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What is a Travel Agency? Types, Purpose, Function, Services

Home » Blog » What is a Travel Agency? Types, Purpose, Function, Services

The travel agency business is now something that most people want to do.

The main purpose of a travel agency is to make planning a trip easier and more useful for their customers by giving them information and making reservations .

Flights, hotels, transportation, trips, and other events can all be booked through the travel company.

If you learn about tour-related ideas and get knowledge from these articles, you’ll be able to start your travel agency in the travel industry. 

Table of contents

What is a travel agency, 1. traditional travel agencies, 2. online travel agencies, 3. corporate travel operators, 4. consolidators, 5. franchise travel services, 1. convenience, 2. expertise and advice, 3. access to deals and discounts, 4. risk management, 5. customer services, 1. travel planning, 2. booking services, 3. customized itineraries, 4. travel documentation, 5. emergency support, 6. customer services, services offered by travel agency, 1. booking services, 2. information and advice, 3. customer services, 4. negotiation and coordination, differences between travel agency and travel agent.

A travel agency is a business that helps people and groups choose, plan, and book travel-related services . Flights, hotels, rides, trips, sports, and other things can be a part of these services.

Most travel companies know about a lot of different trips that their clients can take that fit their wants and budgets.

A lot of travel and tour operators also hire people called tour agents who know a lot about important things like visa rules, places to visit, and travel trends. 

They plan and organize everything so that their clients’ trips are as easy, fun, and stress-free as possible.

Explore the beginner’s guide to launch your travel agency

Types of Travel Agency

Several types of travel agencies meet the wants and tastes of different travelers.

These are the most common travel agencies related to the travel industry:

These agencies are physical office companies where customers can go and talk to the tour planners. They give specialized services and often a wide range of trip needs.

Online Travel Agencies(OTAs) run the online trip business, where their websites or mobile apps provide tourists with book flights, rooms, rental cars, and other trip services. Expedia and Booking.com are some examples.

The corporate travel service makes trip plans for companies and groups. They take care of bookings for businesses, make deals, and offer services like keeping track of costs.

Consolidators buy a large number of plane tickets at a discount, they sell them at a lower price to travel companies or directly to customers.

Franchise companies work under a bigger brand name and use marketing, technology, and support systems in the travel industry that have already been set up. 

Within the franchise network, owners of travel companies get the training and tools they need to run their businesses.

Purposes of Travel Agency

The main purpose of travel agencies is to facilitate and enhance the tour experiences for individuals and groups. 

Travel companies try to make planning a trip easier by letting people book flights, hotels, transportation, events, and other services related to travel all in one place. 

Trip planners hire knowledgeable agents who can offer expert advice and recommendations based on their suggestions of different places or destinations.

Similarly, travel agents shared their experiences of various destinations, travel trends, visa requirements and more.

Airlines, hotels, ship lines, tour operators, and other travel companies often offer deals, discounts, and packages that only travel agencies can get.

They can help customers get the most for their money and save money on their trip costs by taking advantage of deals.

Travel agencies help mitigate risks associated with travel by giving travelers information or knowledge on safety, health issues, and security in different places.

Travel agencies or companies make sure their clients are happy by giving each one of them high-quality service and individual care.

Overall, the travel company’s main goal is to make planning a trip easier, more fun, and less stressful for their costumes by giving them advice, making things easier.

What does Travel Agency do?

Many services travel agencies offer to make it easier and better for people and groups to trip.

One of the things that a travel agency does is the following:

Travel agencies support the client in planning their trips by talking about their tastes, hobbies, income, and any special requirements they may have.  

These companies are called travel agents that help people book flights, hotels, rental cars, airport transfers, trips, events, and other services related to travel. 

They can use online tools and scheduling systems to get reservations for their clients.

Most tour operators make personalized trip plans based on what their clients want and what they’re interested in. 

It supports you on trip documents like passports, visas, travel insurance, and any other paperwork that is needed is available from travel companies. 

Before a client leaves on a trip, they make sure that all of their paperwork is in order.

Travel companies are there to help their customers in case of accidents or other problems that come up during their trip. 

In this case, they might rebook flights, arrange alternative accommodations, or give advice on medical help or legal issues.

Tour Operators prioritize customer happiness first by giving each client great services and individual care.

There are a lot of services travel agencies provide to meet the news and preferences of travelers. 

Trip planner aims to ease the trip planning process, provide expert advice and support, and ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience for their clients.

These are some common services provided by travel agencies.

• Flight Booking
• Accommodation Booking
• Transportation Services
• Tour Packages
• Cruise Booking 
• Travel Insurance
• Visa Assistance
• Destination Recommendations
• Emergency Assistance

Overall, the travel agency’s purpose is to ease the trip schedule process, deliver expert advice and support, and provide smooth and enjoyable trip experiences for their customers.

Let’s launch your travel booking website today

Functions of the Travel Agency

The main function of a travel agency revolves around assisting and arranging various parts of travel and people and groups. 

The purpose of a travel agency is to ease the trip planning process, provide expert advice and support, and improve the entire trip experience for their customers.

Here’s an overview of the key tasks of a travel agency:

Travel agencies handle the planning process for flights, lodgings, transportation, trips, events, and other travel-related services.

Most travel agency provides guidance and formation on different parts of the travel, visa requirements, and health and safety measures. 

Travel companies put customer happiness first by giving each client great service and individual care.

The travel agencies deal with tour operator suppliers, including airlines, trip suppliers, and hotel and tour operators to secure good terms and rates for their clients.

A trip agency is a business company that offers other-related services, while a trip agent is a person hired by or connected with a tour operator who helps clients with their trip planning and bookings. 

These are some key differences between a travel agency and a travel agent:

In summary, travel agencies may have multiple trip agents working under their umbrella to help the clients, while a tour agent may work separately as a part of a bigger company.

Travel companies are essential businesses in the travel industry, acting as intermediaries between tourists and travel providers. They offer a range of services to ease trip planning and booking.

These companies can take the form of standard brick-and-mortar businesses, or online-based platforms. 

Each type of service responds to different tastes and wants, providing accessibility to a wide range of travel-related customers. 

Regardless of their form, the primary goal of travel companies stays consistent: to provide ease, knowledge, and support throughout the trip process. 

They give personalized systems to help, access to exclusive deals, and 24/7 assistance before, during, and after the trip.

By offering personalized solutions and reducing travel risks, travel companies play a crucial role in allowing enjoyable and stress-free travel experiences for individuals and groups.

There are two types of agencies, retail tour operators and wholesale travel agencies.  These travel companies, as well as tour providers, operate as intermediaries. The main goal is the buying and selling process in the travel business.

The global market size of the travel agency industry is estimated at nearly 296 billion U.S. dollars as of January 2024. ( Source )

Overall, roughly 589 thousand travel companies operated in the tourism industry, with employment reaching approximately three million.

Yam Bahadur Chhetri is a content writer and vivid contributor to the WordPress community and a WordPress enthusiast with an experience of 7+ years in the relative field. He also loves to develop WordPress Themes, Plugins, and custom WordPress development for clients.

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Travel agency mission statement examples.

When it comes to the travel industry, having a clear mission statement is essential. A mission statement is a brief statement that outlines the purpose and goals of a business. It is a guiding principle that helps a company stay focused on its objectives and values. In this article, we will explore various travel agency mission statement examples and how they play a vital role in the industry.

What Does a Travel Agency Mission Statement Mean?

A travel agency’s mission statement is a statement that defines the company’s primary purpose and its objectives. It is a declaration of the agency’s core values and what it seeks to achieve. A mission statement is an opportunity for a travel agency to differentiate itself from its competitors by stating its unique selling proposition (USP).

A mission statement is not just a tagline or a catchy phrase. It is a strategic statement that guides a company’s decision-making process. A mission statement should be concise, memorable, and easy to understand. It should inspire employees, customers, and stakeholders to align with the company’s vision and goals.

The Importance of a Travel Agency Mission Statement

A travel agency’s mission statement is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it helps the agency to define its identity and purpose. A clear mission statement enables the agency to focus its resources and efforts on its core objectives. Secondly, a well-crafted mission statement helps to differentiate the agency from competitors in the market. It enables customers to understand what the agency stands for and what it can offer that is unique.

Thirdly, a mission statement helps to guide the agency’s decision-making process. It ensures that all business decisions align with the company’s values and objectives. Fourthly, a mission statement inspires employees to work towards a common goal. It creates a sense of purpose and fosters a positive work culture.

Examples of Travel Agency Mission Statements

Here are some examples of travel agency mission statements:

Each of these travel agencies has a unique mission statement that reflects their values and objectives. Expedia’s mission statement focuses on using technology to revolutionize the travel industry. TripAdvisor’s mission statement emphasizes helping people plan and book the perfect trip. Booking.com’s mission statement is centered on empowering people to experience the world. Travelocity’s mission statement aims to inspire and enable travel for everyone. Priceline’s mission statement highlights the importance of technology in helping people experience the world.

A mission statement is an essential component of any travel agency’s business strategy. It defines the company’s purpose and objectives, differentiates it from competitors, guides decision-making, and inspires employees to work towards a common goal. By understanding the importance of a travel agency mission statement and learning from the examples above, travel agencies can create a clear, concise, and impactful statement that will guide their business towards success.

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What does a travel agency do?

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What does a travel agency do? You will almost definitely have heard of travel agencies if you have ever booked a holiday or have an interest in the tourism industry. But what exactly is a travel agency, and what do they do?

What is a travel agency?

Independent travel agents, online travel agencies , visitor information centres, other types of travel agency, what can a travel agency book, big names in the travel agency industry, travel agency business model, a brief timeline of travel agencies, further reading.

A travel agency is essentially the ‘middle man’ between travel companies and the general public i.e consumers. They book all sorts of travel-related experiences for customers on behalf of larger companies.

The main aim of a travel agency is to make the booking process simpler for the public, who might lack the time or confidence to book trips themselves.

Types of travel agencies

So what does a travel agency do? It mostly depends on what type of travel agency you’re looking at. This can be broken down into the following types…

An independent travel agent is the type you’ll see on Instagram or with their own Facebook pages, their feeds full of snaps from Amsterdam, Bali , or New York City. They tend to partner with a ‘host agency’, who will take a portion of the agents’ commission themselves in exchange for letting them use the company software and access their commission. Travel agents are also able to recruit other people, and in turn get a cut of their commission too. In this way, independent travel agencies tend to be a type of multi-level marketing scheme.

Online travel agencies are much more consumer-focused. They allow individual customers to book their own travel, but as a package or with the added protection from ATOL and ABTA. They act as a broker, allowing you to input your dates, desired destination(s), what board basis you wish to travel and so on. The site then pulls together a package deal, allowing you to book everything in one go with access to booking details so you can make amendments and keep up to date with any changes.

While these don’t offer flights and hotels generally, visitor or tourist information centres are found within cities or tourist destinations. They provide advice, maps, discounts and booking services for tours and excursions such as open top bus tours. These are usually run by local or national governments, or specific tourist boards. They are great for recommendations when travelling somewhere new!

Hotel concierge services work in this same way, often getting commission for booking trips for guests.

I won’t go into too much detail here, but there are other types of travel agencies too. You can learn more in this post about the different types of travel agents .

Overall, what does a travel agency do?

A travel agency does a multitude of things. During non-peak times, they will mostly spend their days researching new or upcoming tourist destinations and what makes them so great, advertising them as somewhere people can book future holidays to.

Travel agencies are also required to keep up to date with safety information for various destinations. They do plenty of research meaning they can tell customers about the best places to go, what they can do while they’re there, what documents they need and so on. This is particularly important now, as travel advice is ever-changing with regards to political conflicts and public health.

But during peak times and in the run-up to these times, travel agents will be busy actually booking trips. Nowadays they mostly do everything via the computer, using the internet to put holiday packages together which include at least the basics – flights and accommodation – for one price. However, they also call travel companies directly in order to get better deals or to see if there are rooms or seats available which might not be showing online for whatever reason. Because of this, travel agencies and agents tend to have great relationships with particular brands.

Travel agents can book much more than just flights and accommodation. Not all of them can book all of these experiences or features, but it is definitely worth asking if you are using a travel agency to book your next vacation.

• Flights – short haul, long haul, & various classes
• Accommodation – hotels, apartments, and villas
• Airport transfers
• Executive airport lounges
• Airport parking
• Cruises – river and ocean
• Car rentals
• Travel insurance
• Excursions and tours
• Taxi services
• Currency exchange
• Train tickets
• Theme park & water park tickets e.g Disneyworld and Universal in Orlando, Florida

They will also advise on public transport services and timetables, as well as arranging for medical items to be delivered and any access requests you have.

Most travel agencies are actually online, and many of us use them regularly. There are still some in-store travel agencies, but with the impact of both modernisation and the Covid-19 pandemic the majority are online now. Below are some big names within the industry which you will likely recognise.

Expedia – founded by Microsoft in 2001

Cruise.com – specifically for booking cruises

American Express Travel – allows you to earn & use points when booking

Audley Travel – the largest operator in tailor-made travel

loveholidays – a British company founded in 2012

Lastminute.com – offering cheaper travel when you book last minute

Kiwi.com – specifically for booking air and ground transport

Booking Holdings – these are a travel technology company who own Booking.com, Cheapflights, OpenTable and more

Now we’ve looked at the question of ‘ what is a travel agency’, let’s take a look at the generic business model. Generally, travel agencies work in one of two ways. The first way is by receiving commission from the companies they book experiences with for customers. For example, if you were to use a travel agency to book your next holiday which included flights, a hotel stay and a transfer to and from the airport this is three separate components which will be booked through three different companies. The travel agency will receive commission from each of the three companies. There may be other benefits and incentives offered by the travel companies. Commission rates and these benefits mean that travel agencies are more likely to use some companies more so than others who might offer them less in exchange.

Alternatively, travel agencies will charge a fee for their services. This makes it more expensive for consumers to book trips through travel agents and agencies than it would to book themselves. However, as some people don’t feel confident booking themselves, many are happy to pay this additional cost. Holidays booked through travel agencies often come with the added benefit of being ATOL and ABTA protected.

• Cox & Kings were the first travel agency, was established in 1758
• Abreu Agency was the first public travel agency, was established in 1840
• Thomas Cook , one of the most famous travel agencies, was founded in 1841
• Brownwell Travel, the first travel agency in the US, was established in 1895
• Nippon Travel Agency was the first travel agency in Japan, established in 1905
• Intourist became the official state travel agency of the Soviet Union in 1929
• The first travel agency in Australia which went on to become Helloworld Travel, was established in 1951
• Henderson Travel Service became the first Black-owned travel agency, taking Black tourists to various African countries, in 1955
• American Airlines’ Sabre unit created a direct-to=consumer booking tool for flights, hotels and cars in the early 1980s
• Mode Tour became the first travel agency in South Korea, established in 1989
• Hotel Reservations Network, which went on to become Hotels.com, was established in 1991 – at this point, hotels didn’t pay a lot of commission so it didn’t take off
• Travelweb.com, the first online hotel directory, launched in 1994
• The Internet Travel Network sold the first airline ticket online in 1995
• Expedia launched in 1996, funded by Microsoft, and are now one of the biggest travel agencies 
• In 2007, as the iPhone was released, more bookings were made online because mobile apps were now in use
• Airbnb was established in 2008
• HotelTonight, specifically for instant same-day hotel room bookings, was launched in 2011

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     11. Our mission is to revolutionize travel through the power of technology. (travel agency)s focus is on transforming the way consumers plan, book and travel around the world. As we bring our talented teams and capabilities together, we will be well positioned to accelerate the pace of innovation to deliver even better customer experiences. 

    12. Our mission at (travel agency) is to make affordable travel services to customers and to deliver pleasurable travel experiences that are seamless from end to end. We offer hassle-free travel services from the moment you start planning your vacation. 

    13. (travel agency) is helping people and companies travel smart and achieve more. We are constantly introducing new booking services and promos to ensure that all our customers get an astonishing travel deal while enjoying flexible booking terms.

    14. Together, we deliver joyful vacation experiences and breakthrough shareholder returns by exceeding guest expectations and leveraging our industry-leading scale. We provide the world’s best customer experience every day.

    15. (travel agency) takes the stress out of planning so you can focus on seeing both the highlights of the world’s must-see destinations and the magic behind every corner. We aim to be the world’s most trusted and innovative travel company.

    16. We are the down-to-earth travel experts whose vision is to bring world travel within your reach. We handle every single detail, so you can save your energy for discovery, not stressing out. And, with (travel agency), you’ll always feel smart about your travel choices. 

    17. When we travel we’re reminded that the world is a friendly place, that people are more generous than we remember, and that we share more in common with our fellow travelers than not. After all, travel brings out the best in us. 

    18. Our purpose: “To enrich lives through inspiring travel experiences,” not only for our guests but also for the people and places we visit. We believe in building long-lasting relationships with our clients in order to always be their No.1 choice. 

    19. At (travel agency) our vision is to successfully grow our company in ways that encourage customers to travel with us again and again, vendors to value our partnership, and inspire employees to be passionate, engaged, and helpful in our workplace and community.

    20. (travel agency) offers a wide array of amenities to keep both experienced and new customers pleased. Our vision has been to facilitate global travel by providing our customers trips all around the globe with splendid user experience.

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MISSIONARY TRAVEL BRINGS FAITH AND HOPE

Mission trips provide members of your faith the opportunity to bring help and hope to the less fortunate through real, hands-on experience. Our mission is to provide assistance — we want to help you plan your group’s international mission travel and determine the most effective solutions for your transportation needs. As a mission travel agency, we’ll help turn your organization’s desire to serve into life-changing action by planning the best mission trip for you.

CV Humanitarian Travel is more than a mission travel agency — we work to make your trip as effective and economical as possible. We provide you with group or individual flight discounts and benefits, as well as exclusive baggage allowances and other benefits.

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We also provide mission travel insurance discounts and benefits that are only available to humanitarian and faith-based travelers. These include deeply discounted rates, access to a huge database of doctors and hospitals, 24/7 customer service in nearly 20 languages, mission-traveler-specific travel insurance plans, and more.

• Insurance discounts & benefits
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• Supplemental health, trip cancellation, and evacuation insurance

We will carefully consider your organization’s specific demographics and create a custom itinerary for your mission trip. Whatever the project — from building a school to teaching a hygiene workshop — we can help you provide an experience that will unite your church, change lives, and put faith into action. Contact us today for all of your mission travel questions.

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How to Become a Travel Agent: Everything You Need to Know

A re you great at finding reasonably priced flights and hotel rooms? Does making itineraries and solving booking issues come naturally to you? If your answer is yes, you might want to consider becoming a travel agent. And if you're the designated "trip-planning friend," you're already halfway there.

You might think the the profession is outdated, but that's not what the data shows: According to the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA), 50 percent of travelers are more likely to use a travel agent now than they were in the past. Not only are travel agents needed, but the career's earning potential can be impressive, depending on the type of agent you choose to be. Use this guide to learn how to become a travel agent and kickstart your journey into a unique career.

RELATED: 26 Best Trip-Planning Hacks Straight From Travel Agents .

What do travel agents do?

A travel agent's job is to ensure their clients have the best travel arrangements. Using their expertise, they offer advice and essential details about your trip, make your reservations, book flights and hotels, and manage your travel plans overall. Any hiccups regarding your accommodations are handled by them, and they are the best at finding money-saving deals. Travel agents prioritize your needs, like your vacation schedule and budget.

Their goal is to provide peace of mind throughout the trip-planning process so you can get the most out of your vacation.

What credentials do you need to be a travel agent?

You don't necessarily need a degree to become a travel agent, but getting some training within the field could be in your best interest. This not only makes you an attractive candidate to employers and agencies who may require a form of certification , but also helps you appear more qualified, which can help further your career in the long run.

Even though there might not be a degree in "travel agency" per se, you can opt for a related program like business, economics, or hospitality instead.

What do you need to become a travel agent?

There are different ways to become a travel agent, but anyone hoping to break into the field should definitely keep the following three points in mind.

Decide what kind of travel agent you want to be.

Having a specific focus on the kind of travel experience you want to provide allows you to build the knowledge and resources to best help those specific clients. Suppose you want to work in corporate travel: Building your skills according to your niche clientele and field will help you sharpen the skills you need to develop your expertise.

Learn about the travel industry and its trends.

The travel agency field is constantly shifting, so it's important to stay up-to-date on industry changes and trends to know what you should be offering clients. People's preferences are ever-changing, so knowing what's hot and what's not is crucial. Spend time learning which places are popular and unpopular based on the season, or which restaurants are staple visits. This shows a solid and up-to-date understanding your clients will appreciate.

Build your communication and interpersonal skills.

A large part of being a travel agent is advising your clients and earning their trust, which doesn't happen overnight. Presenting yourself as knowledgeable and approachable can encourage them to trust your judgment and recommendations. This is especially important if you're not working with a travel agency, because you'll have to rely more on your brand and relationships instead of leaning on a company's reputation.

Maintaining a healthy balance of communication between you and your clients is also essential, which means scheduling phone calls, in-person meetings, keeping up with emails, and any other form of communication your client prefers.

RELATED: 9 Ways Flying First Class Can Actually Save You Money, Travel Experts Say .

Get certified if you can

Getting a certificate can be pricey and cost hundreds of dollars . So, if this option is not feasible for you, that's understandable. However, while certification isn't a requirement to become a travel agent, it can certainly help you throughout your career. Here are a few certificate programs to consider.

Certified Travel Counselor

This Travel Institute certificate requires at least five years of experience and a Certified Travel Association certification. This course focuses on marketing and building consumer relationships. CTC costs $550 to complete the course and $600 for the CTC Fast Track.

Certified Travel Industry Executive

CTIE is also backed by the Travel Institute and requires at least five years of field experience. This $550 program includes courses on travel business, marketing management, bookkeeping, and travel law.

ASTA Verified Travel Advisor

This certificate is given by the American Society of Travel Advisors and teaches applicants about the legalities of travel and how to solidify relationships with consumers. The nine-course program also focuses on ethical travel advising, agency law, and travel agency compliance.

For ASTA members, the course is $399, and for nonmember independent contractors, it's $598. Travel Advisor nonmembers pay the steepest price, which is $729, and $179 for recertification.

RELATED: 7 Hacks for Flying With Just a Carry-On—No Matter How Long Your Trip Is .

How much do travel agents make?

According to Indeed , travel agents make an average of $53,924, and salaries can range between $30,131 and $96,506, depending on where you live. But other factors can affect an agent's earning potential, like working independently instead of for a travel agency.

A travel agent's income also depends on their area of travel. The Hotel Agency Review 2023 report revealed that corporate and luxury travel agents earn much more than agents who focus on Disney and cruise trips.

Your experience level can also impact your earning potential, as agents who have worked in the field longer are typically viewed as more qualified.

RELATED:  The 7 Best Cruises to Book If You're Over 60 .

Do travel agents get discounts on flights?

Being a travel agent doesn't automatically mean you get tons of discounts and deals, but they do have access to perks that can help make planning trips easier and less expensive. Travel agents have the inside scoop on reduced rates because of their relationships with hotels and airlines. As a result, agents share these negotiated prices with their clients to help them save. Agents can, of course, also benefit from this insider knowledge and save money on their own trips.

Thanks to their agents, clients can enjoy luxury accommodations at high-end hotels like Hyatt Privé, Hilton Impresario, Marriott STARS&Luminous, Four Seasons Preferred Partner, and Mandarin Oriental Fan Club, to name a few. These perks range from spa services and later checkout times to room upgrades and complimentary breakfast.

How do you make money as a travel agent?

There are several ways a travel agent can make money in their field beyond selling travel packages or working for an agency.

Travel agents can charge a service fee, which is a base pay clients cover along with any other charges.

Travel agents can also make commissions from their contracts with hotels, tour/excursion companies, cruises, car rental services, and airlines. Add-ons like insurance can also help boost an agent's income, if their client wants it.

Booking group tours can increase a travel agent's earnings because their commission is based on how much their clients purchase, so more people means more accommodations. For example, booking travel for destination weddings or family reunions is an excellent way to book multiple hotel rooms. It's such a lucrative strategy that some agents make group booking their niche, because managing just a few a year can bring in a substantial profit.

RELATED: The Best Day to Book Flights for Your Next Getaway .

Being a travel agent comes with many perks, but ultimately, becoming one takes a lot of dedicated effort. Taking the time to learn about the travel industry is a great way to expand your tourism knowledge and consumer communication techniques. Refining your skills and becoming certified is one of the best ways to attract and retain clients.

So, if becoming a travel agent sounds like the career for you, join this community of globetrotters and combine your love for adventure, great deals, and helping others plan impressive getaways.

In the meantime, you can sign up for our newsletter to enjoy similar career-building content, as well as the latest in wellness, entertainment, and travel.

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Our travel agents understand the sensitive nature of this type of travel. Our travel agents have extensive knowledge of remote destinations within Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe & Latin America. So, no matter where your world missions take you, we can offer mission teams & missionaries assistance with travel in closed countries, last-minute flights for medical missions/disaster relief travel, as well as additional services that may be required. Your agent will work hard to save you time & money on your mission travel arrangements, so you can focus your resources on your ministry.

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Millennials and Gen Z are taking big trips — but they don't want to plan them.

I had just turned 9 when I discovered Anthony Bourdain's show "No Reservations." It wasn't like the other Travel Channel shows. Sure, the premise was straightforward: Bourdain traveled around the world to meet up with locals and try their cuisine. But instead of focusing on tourist hot spots and flashy, curated experiences, "No Reservations" was about traveling by the seat of your pants and getting as close to the local culture as any outsider could be allowed. I was an immediate disciple.

Travel shouldn't be about checking off items on a bucket list by sticking to sanitized excursions marketed to foreigners; it should introduce you to someone else's slice of life. On family trips to New York City, I cringed when my mother pulled out a paper map. "Everyone is going to know we aren't from here," I thought.

Though I grew less self-conscious over the years, that mentality remained. Others in my generation — I'm on the cusp between Gen Z and millennial — were on the same page, determined to seek out "authentic experiences." For years, people explored the world with the help of travel agents. But those services — sending you to places curated just for tourists — seemed to fly in the face of the Bourdainian ethos. Travel agents felt like vestiges of the preinternet world, like video-store clerks or pay phones, and I couldn't imagine ever needing them. What could they tell me that Reddit couldn't? Isn't it simpler to just book my own flights? Doing everything myself felt easier.

As of late, though, my attitude has changed.

Ever since the pandemic-era travel restrictions subsided, travel has boomed. Everyone is jetting off to Italy , Japan , and Costa Rica . Money spent on travel and entertainment surged 30% in 2023, fueled largely by young people. We're all desperate to make up for lost time, but there's a catch: Many of us 20- and 30-somethings are tired. It turns out that aspiring to be a DIY traveler takes a lot of energy — energy that we've already exhausted on careers, relationships, and day-to-day responsibilities. When we do finally have the time to venture away from home, we're burning ourselves out trying to coordinate all the details of our trip. Meanwhile, the sense of precarity we all felt during the pandemic hasn't left. Flight delays and cancellations from weather , short staffing, technical issues, and random bad luck are more common than before. The odds that something could go wrong feel higher.

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That's precisely why some are turning back to travel agents. In 2014, the number of travel agents was half of what it was at the industry's mid-'90s peak , with many expecting it to become obsolete. But by 2021, 76% of advisors were seeing more customers than before the pandemic. And in a 2023 survey of 2,000 American travelers, 38% of Gen Z and millennial respondents said they preferred a traditional travel agent over online booking. Only 12% of Gen Xers and 2% of boomers said the same. Whether we're bopping around the Mediterranean or just posting up at an all-inclusive resort in Mexico for a week, a lot of us are deciding we'd rather put the planning in someone else's hands.

Matt James, a 29-year-old software engineer in New York City, was initially excited to plan his summer trip to Vietnam himself. Like many his age, he's primarily interested in sightseeing in cities. "I found myself going down hourslong internet rabbit holes trying to hone in on a perfect itinerary," he said, "Googling 'best neighborhoods in Hanoi Reddit,' 'two-week Vietnam itinerary Reddit,' etc."

After a while, though, he said it was hard to find the time and energy to plan. Doing his own research was mentally exhausting. He decided to give up the hunt and hand the work over to a travel advisor who was also a family friend. "He was able to take care of booking visas, flights, hotels, and a few excursions," James said. "It was very tempting to have him take care of it all in one email thread for a couple-hundred-dollar fee." Now, he said, all that's left is deciding what to see and eat at each location — something that lets him satisfy his urge to rabbit-hole.

A flight to Mexico City and five nights at a boutique hotel in Coyoacán, however, feels a little more firmly within our grasp.

In a Business Insider survey, in collaboration with YouGov, millennials cited travel as one of their most important goals for the next five years, more important than having fulfilling romantic relationships, owning a home, advancing their career, or starting a family. In fact, the only two goals millennials considered more important than traveling were being financially stable and improving their health. Amid rising costs for housing, childcare, and everything else, key milestones get pushed further down the road. A flight to Mexico City and five nights at a boutique hotel in Coyoacán, however, feels a little more firmly within our grasp. In a 2023 Morning Consult survey , both millennials and Gen Zers were more likely than older generations to travel frequently, with half of each cohort saying they took three or more leisure trips a year. Gen Zers were also more likely to go overseas than their older peers.

For as little as $100 — or nothing at all, given that some agents work on commission from the hotels and other travel companies they work with — overwhelmed young travelers can have someone take all the pressure off the experience. There are travel agents specializing in just about every type of travel imaginable, from multicountry group tours to luxury all-inclusive trips. And different types of agents can offer different perks.

For complex overseas trips, where a million things could go wrong, it makes sense to hire an agent to not only ensure everything goes as smoothly as possible but also handle the rebookings in the event of a hiccup. When something goes awry, it's someone else's problem.

While James decided to have his agent handle just the basics of his Vietnam vacation, many agents can help curate the experiences in between, promising to find their clients the coolest markets to shop at or the most-recommended museums. On a different trip, to Oktoberfest in Germany, James' travel agent — a native German speaker — was able to secure all sorts of reservations that James would never have been able to land on his own.

Increasingly, travel agents are luring people in through social media, where they can speak straight to the millennial and Gen Z desire for a unique experience and a relaxing trip. "We can give you the special slice-of-life experience you want," they pitch, "just without the hassle." Companies like Fora, for example, use TikTok and Instagram to seed sleek ads for package trips to the Croatian coast or boutique hotels in the Florida Keys, with extra attention given to "sustainability" and travelers' specific "aesthetic" desires.

Agents elsewhere on TikTok tout all-inclusive trips where the point is to just lie on the beach and chill the hell out for a second. Searches for topics like "best all-inclusives Cancún" heavily feature travel agents promoting their services , ranking their favorite resorts and highlighting the perks they can offer clients who book with them. One of their main selling points: Their services are free. And many agents also claim that their customers can receive better deals thanks to the special pricing and perks available to agents.

"We can give you the special slice-of-life experience you want," they pitch, "just without the hassle."

"Many of my Gen Z clients are in entry-level careers, graduate programs, or saving for other big expenses, so they're often looking for destinations that allow them to relax while making the most of their limited vacation days and budget," said Kayla Smith, a travel advisor for Sojourney Travel, a company specializing in beach vacations, cruises, and theme-park trips.

Smith is a Gen Zer and said that over half her clients are Gen Z. "Going from school to the workforce is already a huge life transition, and when you add on a pandemic and varying career expectations, you're bound to see a generation who is experiencing burnout at a rapid rate," she said.

For that reason, resort groups like Sandals are seeing an influx of Gen Zers and millennials. Ashley Kooker, a senior business-development manager for Unique Vacations, a sales and marketing affiliate of Sandals and Beaches Resorts, said that these properties had been attracting younger customers in part by blending the all-inclusive format with the opportunity for more exploration. At Sandals Royal Curacao and Sandals Royal Bahamian, guests can opt to go off-resort and visit local restaurants as part of their all-inclusive plan — allowing experience-minded vacationers to have their cake and eat it, too.

Exhaustion aside, many of us 20-somethings still yearn for these hard-to-get-to, out-of-the-box journeys — the trips that make us feel like travelers rather than tourists. William Lee, a travel agent at Chima Travel , a family-owned agency in Ohio that's been operating for over 100 years, told me he often gets requests for obscure destinations young clients see on social media. "We had a client come in and ask us about Oeschinen Lake in Switzerland," he said. "They saw the lake on TikTok and wanted to go there. I had to let them know that to do so would require hiking into the Swiss Alps and going a bit off the beaten path."

I recently wrapped up a 10-day trip to Peru, where I hiked for three days through the Lares District, ate quinoa soup in the San Pedro Market in Cusco, and bar-hopped in Lima. It was a trip packed with experiences — the kind that my generation is always talking about prioritizing — but I don't think I relaxed for a moment. And that's despite leaving all the planning to my friends.

I'm already plotting my next big, multiweek international trip — I'm looking at Vietnam, myself — but before then, I need to book a few days somewhere where I can be by a pool with a margarita in hand. Where will I go? I'm not sure. That's for a travel agent to decide.

Magdalene Taylor is a writer covering sex and culture. She lives in New York City and publishes the newsletter Many Such Cases. 

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Originally located in the Mission Mountains of Montana, Mission MTN Travel was established in 1994 by a group of local pastors wanting to provide discounted international airfare to ministries and churches.   As our reputation for quality and service grew so did the the demand to fulfill our clients other travel needs.  Clients were soon coming to us with requests for other small groups like sports, continuing education travel needs, company events and personal vacations like cruises, honeymoons, and family vacations.  

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• Both parents or guardians must approve that we can issue a passport to a child, and go with the child to apply in person.
• If one or both parents or guardians cannot apply with their child, you will need to show us more documents.
• You cannot renew your child's passport using Form DS-82.
• Passports for children under age 16 are only valid for 5 years. 

Steps to Apply

1. fill out form ds-11 and print it.

Use our Form Filler tool  to fill out your child's form on a desktop or laptop computer and then print it. If you are experiencing technical issues with the Form Filler, download a PDF . 

Tips to complete your child's form :

• Do not sign your child's form until asked to do so by a passport acceptance agent or employee. 
• You can apply for a passport book , a passport card , or both documents.
• You may ask for a larger passport book with more visa pages, at no extra cost, by checking the 'large book' box at the top of the DS-11.

2. Get Evidence of U.S. Citizenship (and a photocopy)

Your evidence must be an original or replacement copy. The document must have the official seal or stamp of the office which issued it. You must submit one of the following documents for your child:

• Issued by the city, county, or state of birth
• Lists applicant's full name, date of birth, and place of birth
• Lists the parent(s)' full names
• Has the date filed with registrar's office (must be within one year of birth)
• Has the registrar's signature
• Has the seal or stamp of the city, county, or state which issued it
• Consular Report of Birth Abroad or Certification of Birth
• Certificate of Citizenship
• Please note you must also provide a document, such as a birth certificate, that lists the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the child. Full validity means the document is or was valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for children under 16. 

If you cannot submit one of these documents, go to our  Citizenship Evidence page  for more information.

Paper only : You cannot submit digital evidence of U.S. citizenship such as a mobile or electronic birth certificate. You must submit physical evidence of U.S. citizenship and a photocopy of the document. 

Returning your child's document : We will return your child's document in a separate mailing up to 8 weeks after you receive the new passport.

Tips for making a photocopy :

• Black and white (no color)
• Use 8.5 inch by 11 inch paper
• Use a single side of the paper

If you do not submit a photocopy, you must submit a second copy of your citizenship evidence. We will keep this copy for our records.

3. Show Your Relationship to Your Child

You must submit a document that lists the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) of the child. Examples include:

• U.S. birth certificate (also evidence of U.S. citizenship)
• Foreign birth certificate
• Adoption decree
• Divorce or custody decree
• A court order

Some documents, like a U.S. birth certificate, show  both  U.S. citizenship and parental relationship. These documents must be originals or certified copies (not photocopies).

You and your child may have different last names, as long as the document showing your relationship to your child lists your full name.

If your name is different than the one on the document showing your relationship to your child, submit proof of your legal name change.

4. Get a Photo ID (and a photocopy)

Both parents or guardians must bring a physical, photo ID and a photocopy of it. If your photo ID is from a different state than the state in which you are applying, bring a second photo ID. 

You must show at least  one  of these photo IDs:

• Valid or expired, undamaged U.S. passport book or passport card 
• In-state, fully valid driver's license or enhanced driver's license with photo
• Certificate of Naturalization 
• Certificate of Citizenship 
• Government employee ID (city, county, state, or federal)
• U.S. military or military dependent ID
• Current (valid) foreign passport
• Matricula Consular (Mexican Consular ID) used by a parent of a U.S. citizen child applicant
• U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Green Card) used by a parent of a U.S. citizen child applicant
• Trusted Traveler IDs (including valid Global Entry, FAST, SENTRI, and NEXUS cards)
• Enhanced Tribal Cards and Native American tribal photo IDs
• In-state, fully-valid learner's permit with photo
• In-state, fully-valid non-driver ID with photo
• Temporary driver's license with photo

If you do not have one of these photo IDs, go to our  Identification page  for more information.

5. Show More Documents (if both parents or guardians cannot apply)

• Both parents or guardians must approve that we can issue a passport to a child, and go with the child to apply in person.
• If one or both parents or guardians cannot apply in person with their child, you will need to show more documents.

Important : Submit  Form DS-3053  and other notarized statements within three months of signing them.

6. Provide a Photo

You must provide one photo with your child's application. Go to our  Passport Photo page  for photo requirements and to see examples of photos. 

• Do not attach or staple your child's photo to the form. The acceptance agent or passport employee will review the photo and staple it to your form.
• Some  passport acceptance facilities
• A company which offers photo services
• Home. Ask your friend or family member to take your child's photo. Print it on glossy or matte photo quality paper. 

7. Calculate Fees

When applying using Form DS-11, you will pay two separate fees - an application fee and an execution (acceptance) fee. You will pay the application fee to the U.S. Department of State, and the execution (acceptance) fee to the facility which takes your application. 

• Add $60 to your application fee if you want  expedited service .
• Add $19.53 to your application fee if you want us to ship your completed passport in 1-2 days after we issue it.  

Child Applicants :

For more information on how to pay and a full list of fees, go to our  Passport Fees  page.

*How to fill out your check and pay the application fee to the U.S. Department of State. Please note you must pay a separate execution (acceptance) fee. 

Families may write one check or money order to the U.S. Department of State if they are applying at the same time. The check or money order must include the name and date of birth of each applicant.

8. Find Location to Apply

In the United States:

• Traveling in more than 3 weeks?  Go to a  passport acceptance facility  such as a post office, library, or local government office. Check with the facility to see if you need to make an appointment. 
• Traveling in less than 3 weeks?   Make an appointment  to apply at a passport agency or center.

In another country:

• Contact your  U.S. embassy or consulate .

9. Track Your Application Status

You can  subscribe to email updates  about your application status, and  learn more about each status update .

It may take 2 weeks from the day you apply until your child's application status is “In Process.” 

Frequently Asked Questions

How will you send my child's passport and supporting documents.

You will get multiple mailings. The number of mailings depends on what document(s) you asked for.

Passport Book : You may get your new passport and citizenship documents in two mailings. You may wait 8 weeks after getting your passport before you get a second mailing with your citizenship documents. We will return the passport book using a trackable delivery service.

Passport Card : You may get your new passport card and your citizenship documents in two mailings. You may wait 8 weeks after getting your passport before you get a second mailing with your citizenship documents. We only send the passport card via First Class Mail. We do not send cards using 1-2 day delivery services.

Both a Passport Book and Card : You may get three separate mailings:

• New passport book
• New passport card
• Citizenship documents

Contacting Us : If you have been waiting more than 8 weeks for your documents, call us at  1-877-487-2778  to report that you have not received your documents. 

If you want us to reimburse you for a lost supporting document, you must contact us within 90 days of the date which we mailed your passport. You will also need to provide a receipt to show the cost of replacing the document. 

Can I pay for faster delivery and return shipping?

Yes. You may choose one or both of the following shipment options:

• Delivering application to us : Pay for Priority Mail Express for faster shipping. The price for this service varies depending on the area of the country.
• Returning the passport to you : Pay $19.53 for 1-2 day delivery. This means you will receive your passport   1-2 days after we send it. Include this fee with your check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of State. Do not submit a return envelope to us with postage pre-paid. 

You may receive your passport and supporting documents in separate mailings. If you are renewing a passport card, we will send it to you via First Class Mail. We do not use 1-2 day delivery services if you only applied for a passport card.

What countries require Form DS-3053 "Statement of Consent" to be notarized at an embassy or consulate?

In certain countries, a DS-3053 must be notarized at a  U.S. embassy or consulate  and cannot be notarized by a local notary public. Currently, these countries include:

Special Passport Fairs

Find a Special Passport Fair  near you!

We're holding special passport fairs all across the United States to help you get your passport more easily. New events are added to our site every week.

Most events are for first-time applicants and children, (who use Form DS-11). If you can use Form DS-82, you can renew by mail at your convenience!

Processing Times

Routine:  6-8 weeks*

Expedited: 2-3 weeks and an extra $60*

*Consider the total time it will take to get a passport when you are booking travel.  Processing times only include the time your application is at a passport agency or center.

• It may take up to 2 weeks for applications to arrive at a passport agency or center. It may take up to 2 weeks for you to receive a completed passport after we print it. 
• Processing times + mailing times = total time to get a passport

Urgent Travel:  See our Get my Passport Fast page. 

How to Apply for your Child's Passport

Watch this video to learn how to apply in person for your child's U.S. passport!

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2024 Total Eclipse: Where & When

Eclipse explorer.

For a mobile-friendly or full-screen version of this interactive map, visit go.nasa.gov/EclipseExplorer .

The Monday, April 8, 2024, total solar eclipse crossed North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. The total solar eclipse began over the South Pacific Ocean. Weather permitting, the first location in continental North America that experienced totality is Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT.

The path of the eclipse continued from Mexico, entering the United States in Texas, and traveled through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse. The eclipse entered Canada in Southern Ontario, and continued through Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Cape Breton. The eclipse exited continental North America on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NDT.

This table provides the time that totality began in some U.S. cities in the path of totality. These areas also experienced a partial eclipse before and after these times.

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