Another Of My Skills - I'm A Travel Agent
Twice today, I've shared with people that I'm also a travel agent.
One was while discussing building a lead generation website in the travel industry.
The second was while visiting with some out of state friends who are planning a trip to Maldives, and I was listening to a lot of bad travel advice being bounced around.
I first noticed the travel biz probably 25 years ago, while I was listening to some cassette tapes made at a seminar on ways to earn money. I bought the set of used cassette taps off eBay.
This event was right at the beginning, or perhaps even before, internet marketers started hosting seminars. As far as I remember, NONE of the speakers were "Internet Marketers!"
One of the speakers, Wade Cook, shared during his presentation that he was a travel agent, and that as a result he got lower rates on travel and accommodations that other event attendees
He explained that since hotels, resorts, airline and cruise ships want travel agents to experience their services, and then recommend them to their clients, they often offered the discounts and "FAM" rates.
Fam specials are "Familiarization rates.
So, as a travel agents, I can get special rates on a VARIETY of cruise lines... many that I had not even heard of.
When I recently ask ChatGPT how many cruise lines there are and what some of them are, it responded:
As of 2024, there are over 50 cruise lines operating worldwide, offering a wide range of experiences, from luxury cruises to budget-friendly options. These cruise lines vary in size, destination, and target audience, ranging from large global companies to smaller, niche operators.
Some of the Leading Cruise Lines Worldwide:
Carnival Cruise Line
One of the largest cruise lines in the world, Carnival is known for offering affordable and fun experiences, with many ships catering to families and younger travelers.
Royal Caribbean International
Famous for its massive ships and innovative onboard features, Royal Caribbean offers a variety of entertainment options, including zip lines, surf simulators, and Broadway-style shows.
Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL)
Norwegian is known for its "Freestyle Cruising" concept, which allows guests more flexibility with dining and entertainment options. NCL offers a wide range of destinations and activities.
MSC Cruises
MSC is a European-based cruise line with a strong focus on Mediterranean itineraries. It has expanded rapidly and is known for elegant ships and family-friendly experiences.
Princess Cruises
Princess Cruises offers a more refined, classic cruising experience, popular for its Alaskan itineraries. It caters to a slightly older crowd with a focus on relaxation and culture.
Celebrity Cruises
Celebrity is known for its luxurious amenities and sophisticated atmosphere. It offers more upscale dining and service, appealing to travelers seeking a more refined cruise experience.
Disney Cruise Line
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Disney specializes in family-oriented cruises with a magical twist. It offers entertainment featuring Disney characters, themed activities, and high-quality service.
Holland America Line
Holland America is known for offering a more traditional and relaxed cruising experience, often with longer itineraries and a focus on enrichment and cultural exploration.
Costa Cruises
Based in Italy, Costa Cruises primarily caters to European travelers but offers a wide range of itineraries worldwide. It’s known for its lively atmosphere and family-friendly features.
Cunard Line
A luxury British cruise line, Cunard is famous for its transatlantic crossings and elegant, old-world charm. Its flagship, the Queen Mary 2, is the only ship offering regular transatlantic service.
Other Notable Cruise Lines:
Oceania Cruises (luxury and culinary-focused cruises)
Regent Seven Seas Cruises (luxury, all-inclusive cruises)
Viking Ocean Cruises (focused on cultural enrichment and river cruising)
Seabourn (ultra-luxury, small ship cruises)
These are some of the key players in the global cruise industry, offering various experiences for all types of travelers.
I've only cruised on three of the above.
As a travel agent, one can get special training from some companies, and become certified, as for example "A Disney Expert." I'm not actually sure what most of these experts are called since I haven't focused on the travel industry.
I have discovered numerous travel agents earning six-figures and a handful earning seven-figures.
Maybe, when I am retired, and traveling a lot more, I'll share photos or videos from many of the places that I visit, encouraging othes to do the same.
Anyway, if any of you need to book travel arrangements or vacations, here is my booking engine:
You'll be hard pressed to find lower rates anywhere, and we do have price match guarantees.
I haven't used the title Major since I retired back in 2003 :-)
Also, if you'd like details on BECOMING a travel agent, now is a good time to get into the industry. People still have a lot of pent-up desire to travel due to the Covid shutdown.
I even have a trip planned to the Philippines in the next few months!