Travel Agent

Travel agents are specialists who assist persons in sorting through a vast amount of information, helping them make the best decisions when it comes to travel plans and arrangements. The standard responsibilities of travel agents have been to purchase airline or train tickets, book hotel rooms, and line up tours, and rent cars or other transportation arrangements. Beyond that, travel agents also offer advice on popular destinations and tell customers about specials and current deals, promoting travel packages from resorts and specialty travel groups. They are also the leading source of bookings for major cruise lines. More and more, travel agents are expected to have up to date information about travel destinations, including weather conditions, local ordinances and customs, attractions, and exhibitions. In cases of international travel, agents also provide important information on customs regulations and restrictions, advisable security measures, the required papers – passports, visas, and certificates of vaccination – travel advisories, and the exchange rates on currency. Sometimes, when in itinerary in the middle of a trip occur, travel agents are called upon to intercede on the traveler's behalf and quickly make alternate booking arrangements and transfers.