FALSE.

This is one of the biggest myths in the industry. While travel agents do get access to exclusive rates—typically 25% to 75% off—so they can explore destinations and build firsthand knowledge, travel is not required to succeed in this business. Many agents book confidently and successfully without ever having stepped foot in the destinations they sell.

FALSE

That’s what FAM trips (familiarization trips) are for! These are educational opportunities where you can visit resorts, cruises, or even tour Europe at a heavily discounted rate to learn about the product and build your expertise. These trips are optional, not required.

For example:

• Some resorts may offer you up to 50% off for you to experience their properties.

• Other well-known travel experiences such as cruises and European tours also provide exclusive travel agent rates so you can explore and better serve your clients. It’s a chance to travel smart, not a prerequisite.

FALSE.

Once you complete your initial certification, you are officially able to book any type of travel in any niche.

That said, if you want to become an expert in a specific area—like cruises, Disney, or honeymoons—additional supplier trainings are available and highly recommended, and included in the price.

For example:

• One cruiseline even rewards you with four cruise tickets after completing their training (you just pay port taxes and fees).

• Many suppliers give travel agents access to bonus commissions, exclusive promotions, and thank-you gifts for completing their certifications.