Don't Risk It, Get the Protection and Security You Need With Travel Insurance

Let's face it, getting travel insurance can be a very overwhelming and tedious process, making it easy to put off and even forget entirely. But before you head off on your international adventure, you might want to consider getting coverage through some travel insurance, just to be on the safe side.With some luck, you'll be glad it's something you have and won't need to use. But we all know that in life things happen, so it's a good idea to find a travel insurance policy that fits your individual needs, travel agenda, and budget. Many travel agents and private companies offer travel insurance, and they have a wide variety of types and options to choice from.What does Travel Insurance cover?Basic coverage of travel insurance includes some financial losses while traveling, as well as limited medical expenses, including medical evacuation. The most common type of travel insurance is trip cancellation or trip delay insurance. This type of policy covers you and your travel companions in case you need to cancel, interrupt or delay your trip. However, the acceptable reasons for canceling or interrupting your trip will depend on the insurance policy, but most likely you'll be covered for the following reasons: Sudden business conflicts Change of mind Delay in processing your visa or passport Illness or injury Weather related issuesIn case your flight is canceled or delayed, travel insurance companies may provide additional coverage such as expenses that the airlines won't cover, like taxi fares to the hotel or meals during your wait at the airport.It's also a good idea to have a plan with medical coverage of up to $1,000,000 in the case you become ill, need medical assistance, or have a flight accident occur. It's also good to review the amount deductible by your insurance plan (this is the amount you'll need to come up with before the insurance company picks of the rest). Make sure it covers repatriation (evacuation to your home country, rather than the nearest regional medical facility); make sure that does not mean you will be sent to the country where you purchased your travel insurance plan either, but your home country. If you're planning a visit to multiple countries, make sure all the countries are included in the region covered by your insurance policy.To learn more about these types of coverage and more specialized coverage, read The Basics of Travel Insurance.To invest or not? How to make travel insurance work for me.Purchasing travel insurance is great for insuring your money, should any unforeseen events pop-up, especially if you invest large sums of money on extravagant travel packages. To determine whether you want to invest in travel insurance your not, ask yourself these questions: Did you invest a lot of money into your travel plans? Are you traveling overseas? Which regions or countries are you visiting and for how long? Are you planning on participating in any extreme sports? Can you afford the cost of your trip back home if any emergency arises? Will you be able to afford medical care if you or someone you are with gets sick and needs immediate medical attention? How old are you and how is your overall health? Do you have any pre-existing conditions that need regular, special attention?You can purchase your travel insurance for a single trip, multi-trip, or with an annual policy, all depending on how frequently you travel and the length of your trip. Comprehensive travel insurance can cost anywhere from 4% to 8% of the cost of your trip, depending on type of coverage, the length of the trip, the destination, and the age of the travelers. It is best to purchase your travel insurance between 7 to 21 days of purchasing your travel itinerary. Usually the maximum coverage period for insurance providers is for one year abroad.Go through the fine print on your policy and check whether you will have to pay on the spot and redeem the money later for any medical expenses, or will the insurance company pay providers directly. If you have to claim it later on, you will want to hang on to all documents.If you have a pre-existing medical condition, get an insurance policy that will specifically cover it. Also examine which adventure sports and activities the plan does and does not cover (rarely does it include scuba diving and hang gliding). Lastly, for your benefit, a policy that is flexible and can be extended while you're already away is recommended. You never know whom you'll meet, and you just might want to extend your trip.Another good tip would be to get in touch with your credit card issuer before investing in travel insurance. At http://www.creditcards.com/, a credit card information site, suggests calling your credit card issuer to see if you have any free travel benefits that you may not be aware of, for example, insurance on lost or damaged luggage. However, according to USTIA, canceling a trip at the last minute and being reimbursed by your credit card company is the most common misconceptions among travelers. And sometimes credit card companies have limitations on only cover up to 3 months of travel. It's worth investigating.Lastly, if you have existing health coverage, it would be wise to get in touch with them before hand, especially if you will need vaccinations and other medicine for your trip. Depending on your health insurance plan, ask for a 'travel packet' and they will send you important information regarding your coverage, if any, while abroad. It might turn out you might already be covered for somethings, but not for others.Where can I purchase Travel Insurance?There are many sites and companies offering travel insurance online. Among them are leading companies such as World Nomads, Travel Guard, and InsureMyTrip, just to name a few. A new online resource called Squaremouth, helps travelers easily and instantly compare all the major travel insurance plans at one site. You'll be able to get immediate quotes from several major, reputable travel insurance providers and compare policies and their prices. It's a good starting point and one that you can trust.Helpful Tips for once you've purchased your Travel Insurance: Scan your insurance policy electronically and save it somewhere securely online Make one copy for yourself to bring on your trip Make another copy for a trusted family member to keep at home Have the emergency hotline number accessible during your trip, but make sure you try it out before leaving home to ensure its operating and correct List out any medications you are taking (including vaccinations for your trip), and a list of allergies you have; keep this with your insurance emergency number Keep all receipts at home Review all the fine print in your insurance policy and determine which adventures you will be taking and which risks might not be worth itFinally, get ready for a trip of a lifetime! Hopefully you'll avoid ever using your insurance plan, but it will give you and your loved ones more security knowing you're protected.

Meghana Kamdar writes articles to inspire travel and offer practical travel advice. For the latest in travel requirements and travel health, please visit OneEasyVisa

Travel Insurance For Peace Of Mind During Your Travels

Vacationing at least once in a year has become an integral part of many people's lifestyle and as such the travel insurance has gained in importance like never before.Just try to imagine the gravity of an emergency situation where you have to deal with an emergency medical situation due to an illness or an accident or injury. Any of these situations can throw you into a panic if you are not adequately prepared. And this preparedness comes from having travel insurance.So next time you start planning for your next vacation, also include the cost of the travel medical insurance into your budget. Remember, without travel insurance your planning remains grossly incomplete. Even if you consider yourself in a perfect state of health, you cannot predict when accidents or sickness may befall you. Travel health insurance helps you to be on the safe side, so that you do not get hit with a huge medical bill.Here is some basic information about travel insurance that will help you be well prepared for anything unexpected during your travels:* Travel insurance in general does not just cover your medical expenses abroad, but also extends coverage to lost luggage and other personal belongings including passports and money. Repatriation costs are also included in the coverage and the costs incurred due to cancelled or delayed flights are also covered by the travel insurance. If you happen to damage items belonging to a third party, you get liability coverage from your travel insurance company. If you want all these expenses covered by your travel insurance coverage, you should purchase a comprehensive travel insurance policy.* Most travel insurances generally cover trip cancellation, trip delays, medical and dental expenses, emergency medical transportation, lost luggage, missed connection, itinerary changes, accidental death, any kind of default on the part of airlines, cruise lines and tour operators.* It is recommended that you buy your travel insurance policy directly from the insurance company, rather than having it as an add-on to your travel package from your travel agent. This will give you considerable savings on the cost of the travel insurance and you will be able to buy a policy with more comprehensive features.* Do not judge a policy on the basis of its price alone. A cheap policy does not necessarily mean it is a bad policy. On the other hand the more expensive policies may lack some of the more important features. So shop around on the internet, compare the travel insurance quotes and find a travel insurance product that caters to all your needs while traveling abroad.* Last of all, do not take any travel insurance policy for granted; go through it in detail, take note of the disclaimer and make sure that you do not get cheated on the important provisions of your coverage.

Travel Insurance--necessary Or Not?

Are you planning a trip and are undecided about the necessity of travel insurance? If so, this is the right site to be. You have probably heard dire warnings from fellow travelers and perhaps your own travel agent about the necessity of travel insurance, but is it really so? Since you plan to spend a goodly sum of money on airfare, accommodations, car rentals and other arrangements, it is probably a good idea to insure your trip with travel insurance.There are a variety of unexpected circumstances that could occur before your trip that would make travel insurance vitally important for you to get a refund of your money. Travel insurance was created to act as a safety net for people whose travel plans were drastically changed through no fault of their own. Whether the airline personnel go on strike, there is violent weather in the locale where you plan on visiting, there is a death in the family, or perhaps an unexpected illness forces you to cancel your reservations, travel insurance ensures that your money will be refunded if your travel plans are not carried out. In addition, there a number of specific areas where travel insurance can be of help to you while you are actually traveling.Much of the travel insurance is purchased by travelers to cover unforeseen health or medical problems beyond the scope of their personal health coverage. Such medical travel insurance policies are specifically designed to provide medical coverage while you are on your trip. Since many group and individual health insurance plans do not cover you outside of your specific area, or restrict coverage to emergencies only, you might want to look into your regular insurance plan to determine if you would be covered in a foreign country. By purchasing travel insurance, you are guaranteed to be covered in any medical situation that may occur.Since September 11, 2001, outbreaks of terrorism have plagued many regions of our world. If a terrorist act suddenly occurs in an area in which you have chosen to travel, the airline is not required to provide you a refund if you choose not to travel because of the terrorist threats--unless you have travel insurance. Given the unpredictability of events in today's world, you never know where or when a troubling situation could arise, and therefore, travel insurance becomes a must.Airline flights can be cancelled at any time, for a wide variety of reasons--bankruptcy of an airline, a pilot's strike, inclement weather conditions, mechanical failures, and any number of factors that can not be controlled. In some circumstances, flights are not rescheduled and refunds are not given, which means that you lost not only your flight, but also the money you spent to buy your ticket. Travel insurance insures your ticket and guarantees that if the flight does not depart, no matter what the reason, you will get a refund of the ticket price.Have you ever lost your bags or know someone who has? In most cases the airlines find and return the missing baggage, but in some cases it is never located. In other cases, it is discovered that items have been stolen from your luggage. In these cases, travel insurance would act to insure whatever items are lost or stolen so that you can replace your belongings.If you decide to purchase a travel insurance plan, it is important that you research a number of travel insurance companies and plans before choosing one. Travel insurance can be purchased for each individual trip or, for people who are frequent travelers, there are long-term (usually one year) travel insurance plans available.Be sure your travel insurance purchase covers all the bases, ask lots of questions, and confirm that your policy will cover all unforeseen circumstances of your trip, not just a few specific situations.Best wishes for safe and healthy travel!

Budget Travel Tips

We can travel either by air, land or sea. The mode of transport depends upon the geography of the region the person is going to visit, time and budget.If you choose air transport we have numerous air flights to choose from. The airlines are now providing various services to the passengers. We also have cheaper flights to meet the needs of the mass. The passengers can book their tickets online or else with Calgary travel agent with best travel services and pricing. Book West jet and Air Canada .At Internet International Travel, they don't just help you find the best prices to worldwide destinations, but they help you to make the most of your time while on holiday. Don't let something as simple as an unexpected car rental problem ruin what would otherwise be a perfect holiday! Instead, let us help you plan the details of your holiday.Here are just some of the areas that they can help you with:Airport Parking Pre book your parking to save time and money on departure and arrival!Airport Hotels Never miss your connection while staying at these world class establishments.Car Rentals Travel where you want, when you want while you're staying abroad.Medical Information They'll help you if there are any medical warnings or vaccinations you should be aware of.Local Attractions & Information Let us show you the best places to shop, to eat and to relax while on your holiday!Travel Documentation Never forget to bring the proper documentation as you travel, to prevent long delays at the border.Foreign Currency Let us help you negotiate your currency problems as you travel to your sun destination

Passport Rule Confusion- Problem For Boomer Travel

Hundred of thousands of Boomers will be zooming away on long awaited vacations and cruises as they enter retirement age. They're looking for that dreamed-about experience for which they have put aside nickels and dimes in the cookie jar for years, or, they know exactly where that first retirement check will take them. It could be any number of destinations, but it's going to be special because they have waited so long for it to happen at last. The one item that remains essential is the comforting assurance that 'someone' cares about their life-long plans and the 'unforeseeable' doesn't happen to spoil those dreams they worked so hard for. While booking cruises and vacations on internet booking sites is acceptable to many travelers, most want the human touch that enhances the anticipation and assures the event happens seamlessly; a truly qualified, professional travel coordinator with the background of experience and dedication to the satisfaction of the customer to put it all together, backed up with a network of resources. In a sentence, a 'resume description' for Diane Lanahan, recently to leave the typical store-front, brick and mortar travel agent office to become Travel Store Diane as a home based, independent travel associate of Incentive Connection Travel, Inc., one of the world's largest host travel agencies in the evolving industry. 'The travel business is going through huge changes', she says, 'with new innovations daily that affect how people book vacations and cruises. But, one thing stays the same: the need for the personal touch of someone to insure details are not overlooked.' She has been that person over the years, which accounts for the following of numerous, loyal customers that have become trusted friends. 'How far is the hotel from the airport?' or 'Can I use U.S. dollars to tip at the hotel?' are not questions that you will easily find on a regular internet booking site, but, Diane will attempt to smooth out those bumps toward the final destination. Diane provides her clients with assistance not often thought about by internet shoppers using a booking engines, like the travel documents that will be required. Recent proposed changes for passport requirements have travelers confused concerning requirements. As of the beginning of October there were proposed changes that would require individuals entering the country by air or sea to present a valid passport, and that includes all U.S. and Canadian citizens. The changes could begin as early as January 2007, just a few months away and later passport requirements will extend to land border crossings. The land border crossing dates have changed from the beginning of 2008 originally to the summer of 2009, as of this writing, which has added to traveler confusion. 'I understand it is now taking longer than six weeks to obtain a new passport, so anyone planning travel should begin the application process soon, especially if you plan international travel in 2007', Diane advises. If you want a free passport application, or if youwant to book any type of cruise or vacation package personally with Diane Lanahan, you can visit her web site at www.TravelStoreDiane.com or you can call her - 800-308-2641.

How Travel Insurance Can Save Your Vacation

Not every vacation goes as planned. Most people can recover easily from sunburn or a missed connection flight, but what happens when something major goes wrong. What if your flight is canceled and you have to spend thousands of additional dollars to fly home the next day instead? What if you break your leg while skiing? What if your luggage, including your passport, is stolen?When something significant goes wrong when on vacation, you may find yourself suddenly in thousands of dollars of debt or relying on the kindness of strangers to help you. Both cases can be bad news. You can protect yourself, though, if you purchase travel insurance before you leave.Travel insurance policies give you a way to protect yourself medically and financially when traveling so that you can have peace of mind while on vacation. The more relaxed you are, the more you will enjoy your vacation. This type of insurance is good whether you are traveling domestically or internationally, and it can be purchased through the travel agency you used to book your trip, from the cruise line or tour operating company if you have one, or from a third-party company that sells all kinds of insurance.What does travel insurance cover? The type of policy you purchase determines what your insurance policy covers. Sometimes, the policies offered by travel agents are actually not very inclusive, giving you just a little bit of coverage in case the trip is canceled. However, if you go with a third-party policy, you might find that quite a few problems can be solved by your policy. Some of the things covered include the following:Emergency medical expensesAccidental death or injuryFuneral expenses while overseasDelayed luggage item replacementLost, damaged, or stolen possessionsLegal costsPersonal liability damagesTrip cancellationFlight delayCurtailmentEmergency evacuationRental car damagesKeep in mind, though, that travel insurance policies do not automatically cover the things listed above. In fact, basic policies rarely cover anything more than emergency medical expenses, luggage problems, and trip cancellation. Even those things may not be covered under all circumstances. Things that are commonly excluded from even the most thorough policies include the following:Pregnancy-related medical careTerrorismInjuries due to high-risk sportsWar-related injuriesMedical expenses relating to alcohol or drugsPre-existing medical conditionsSome of the above-mentioned situations can be added to your policy, but this is not always the case. Ask really specific questions to find out exactly how you are covered with your policy.While travel insurance is offered to most people, you may not be able to get a policy if you are traveling to a high-risk area of the world. For example, if you are on a missionary or relief trip to a country in the middle of a war, most insurance companies will not cover you. You may also be unable to get travel insurance if you are traveling to a country where a natural disaster is likely during that time of year. Sometimes, if you are visiting a high-risk country, you can get very basic coverage that at least allows you to make sure that you are covered in the event of an accident or lost luggage.The best part about travel insurance, though, is that you can find a company with concierge services and emergency travel assistance. In other words, they do not just make you collect receipts and foot the bill when you get home. If you are sick and in a country where few doctors speak your language, the travel insurance company can arrange for someone from the embassy in that country to help you get the care you need. They usually have 24 hours a day, 7 days a week assistance so that you never have to worry about being alone and in a panic because something has gone wrong. Make sure that you take your policy documentation with you when you travel so that you can call your insurance company with your policy number if something goes wrong.Travel insurance can be a bit pricey though, costing 5% to 7% of your total vacation cost or more. However, when you think about the expenses you could incur without the insurance, the choice is simple; travel insurance is extremely valuable. That way, if something bad happens, you can take care of the problem as quickly and easily as possible and enjoy the rest of your time away from home. As with any kind of insurance, if you shop around, you can usually find a good deal, and the policy will ensure that one setback does not have to ruin an entire trip for you and your fellow travelers.

Suzanne Bradley is a writer and blogger who discusses various aspects of the travel industry such as travel insurance.

Travel Medical Insurance Information

Dealing with a medical emergency while on vacation in a foreign country can be a really stressful experience. As much as you would wish they wouldn't happen, the fact is that they still do. Emergencies, whether medical or otherwise, can arise at any time and in any circumstances. Although travel medical insurance or international insurance won't help avert the situation, it will certainly help you in dealing with the aftermath, thus giving you more peace of mind while traveling.Travel medical insurance or international insurance comes in many flavors, each with its own characteristics and advantages. For example, most basic travel insurance policies cover injuries and medical expenses in foreign countries. A more comprehensive policy would most likely also include untoward incidents with your flights, your luggage or your accommodations. Obviously, a more comprehensive policy would give you more comfort and peace of mind because it will cover more emergency situations and untoward incidents.You might see the benefits of travel medical insurance to be merely for convenience, but those benefits could become critical once you step into another country. Getting emergency services or immediate medical attention in a foreign place could end up costing you a lot, especially if you or a family member required special transportation such as by helicopter. In the case of an all-out crisis, such as a coup or a national disaster, you will have to shoulder expenses for evacuation and emergency transport back to your country.Travel insurance policies, fortunately, cover such expenses, making them all the more important to have for your trip.While purchasing travel insurance isn't expensive, especially if you're under 40 years of age, it's still a cost over and above your travel expenses. It's not really necessary but having an insurance policy can be nothing short of a lifesaver should you find yourself in a pinch while traveling through unfamiliar territory. It will all boil down to you and whether you're willing to take on either the extra expense or the additional risks involved.If you want to save on travel insurance, purchase it as early as possible. Buying too late or immediately before your flight will likely have you paying extra charges to get a less-than-expected policy. You might also want to try buying it from your travel agent as part of a travel package, as that option often comes out cheaper than buying a standalone travel medical insurance policy.Before deciding to buy travel insurance, analyze your itinerary first. If you're merely going to visit urban areas or cities where banks and similar institutions are abundant, the need for a travel insurance policy is greatly diminished. If, on the other hand, you're going to a region where diseases are rampant or where you're basically at risk, you might want to give travel medical insurance some serious consideration.

If you are finding the best medical insurance coverage that anybody wants in their entire life then check this out!. What's best about getting a medical insurance coverage from here is even if you stay in a place with different medical standards and health services, your insurance provider will allow you to avail of services that are just as good as what you can avail back home.

Simple Tips For Finding Better Travel Deals

It is possible to find better travel deals by better understanding the complex airline industry. Airlines sell tens of thousands of tickets online every day of course. They study the buying habits of their customers, to figure out how to get the maximum price while remaining competitive. The competition created by online travel sites is to our advantage, but we should understand how they operate.The airlines adjust their ticket prices from one day to the next and even over the course of hours in a day. You are more likely to find the best travel deals when the airline is particularly motivated to grab that purchase. They want to make sure their planes are full, and the sooner they can do that the better. There is motivation to reduce the risk of partially empty planes.Buying tickets with as much advance notice as possible, many days or weeks before the day of travel for example, reduces the risk to the airline and they will tend to reward you with lower prices. This is not always possible, but worth keeping in mind whenever it is reasonable to do so.If you are looking online at a time of day when many others are also searching, the companies may be less motivated to put out a great travel deal, since they are busily filling up planes with all the online business. Why put out the best prices when people are buying anyway? It is a matter of supply and demand to some extent. The prime time to avoid would be from say 8 to 6 during the daytime, especially during the week.On the one hand, booking early can save money, as discussed above. However, last-minute reservations occasionally can find turn up a great deal. Go ahead and make the early purchase, since it is important to actually get the desired flight. Then shortly before the day of travel, check back with the airline on those flights. If they report lower last-minute travel deals, give them a call. It may be possible to obtain at least some of the difference between the current price and what you paid before.As part of the online search process, first look for travel deals at the major third-party websites like Priceline or Expedia. As a rule, they will offer very similar pricing for the same ticket on the same day. The key is whether one website or the other can find specials and clever combinations of flights to offer a better price. By the way, Kayak is a good website because it permits the visitor to quickly compare several sites quickly and conveniently. Once you know what the travel websites can offer, you can then move over to the airline website for the flight of interest, and make sure there is not a better price offered on the official site.Don't give up on using a travel agent for some vacation trips. They likely will not provide the cheapest price for a simple trip. However, a travel agent often can find great travel deals that non-professionals can't dig up. This can be especially useful on a multi-leg vacation with numerous flights and hotels.The same can be true with international travel. In checking with an experienced travel agent, make sure they know that finding the best possible pricing is a big part of the reason you are using them; put a little bit of pressure on them to earn their fee. They can be very helpful in working out the details of a complex trip and can find money saving travel deals at the same time.Finally, here are two simple observations that might be helpful. Realize the difference between a direct flight (where there is no change of plane, but there could be intermediate stops before the final destination) and a nonstop flight. Also, whenever possible try and stay over a Saturday night; this is pretty well-known wisdom but it still applies.

J. Michael Key writes on a variety of topics, with an emphasis on travel and vacation opportunities. For more information about saving on your next vacation visit http://www.travel--deals.net

Travel Deals.

6 Tips on Getting the Best Deal on Cheap International Flights

An extended vacation with plans to visit several countries sounds very exotic and exciting. However, the total cost of your airfare can be prohibitive. For travel plans that include several stopovers in different countries what you need to look for are cheap international flights.Here are a few suggestions that will help you travel the world without having to break the bank.Get a Head Start by Planning AheadThe key to finding the best deals on cheap international flights is to plan your getaway as far in advance as you can. Discounts can be sizable if you can select your flight with at least a 21-day advance purchase. Many of the cheap international flights are available directly from the airlines, who offer non published fares not often found for domestic travel. As an added bonus, you may find your other needs, such as lodging and attraction tickets may be cheaper as well with enough notice.Smaller Airlines- Your Gateway to Cheap International FlightsSmaller airlines have less of an overhead and therefore are able to pass their savings on to you. EasyJet offers some of best deals on cheap international flights. This company does not even pay a commission to travel agents so they are able to reduce the public fares. Many times you will not have a meal or a movie, but this may pale in comparison to the savings you can pocket.Package Deals helps save your Travel DollarsPackage deals for international flights are one of the best ways to get a great deal on your vacation. These packages include airfare and accommodations, and sometime attraction tickets. Many of these packages can be all-inclusive, meaning your food and some activities are covered as well. Destination specialists such as Airfare Planet, Qantas Vacations, and 1800 Fly Europe, will be able to save you a lot of your hard earned money with these vacation package deals.Consider Multiple Stop-OversMany times, cheap international flights can be found if you take a flight requiring a layover or multiple stops. These flights are not as convenient sometimes as a direct flight, but you may get to see a few more sites and save some money at the same time. Multiple stops are also a great way to experience more of the local flavors found near the airports.Dump the BaggageWhen you are flying internationally, many airlines are now charging for checked baggage. This can raise the price of your cheap international flights to something not so cheap! Pack only what you need and consider purchasing items when you arrive at your destination.Do Your ResearchMany cheap fares can be found online. Online travel sites and destination specialty companies now offer the opportunity to plan your entire vacation with just a few clicks of the mouse. Be sure you are ready to purchase your tickets, however, because airfare prices can change within a matter of hours. Take the time to try several sites and don't be afraid to contact the companies directly. Many times a travel agency will match or beat someone else's best deal, or even offer some bonuses, just to get your business.Following these easy tips and advice should help you find several cheap flights to your chosen destinations.

Huzaili Aris loves to travel and reveals more tips on how to find cheap airline tickets at his website. You'll also find travel destination tips, hotel deals and vacation tours for you and the whole family.

Vacations Only Available Through a Travel Agency

Going on vacation is what many individuals spend their entire year dreaming about. For some a simple vacation means visiting family and friends, but for others a vacation means getting away to a destination that is exotic, fun and exciting. Maybe you desire an extreme adventurous holiday or maybe you in search of peace and serenity, whatever your holiday idea is, travel agencies have the tools and expertise to help you find a perfect destination. Why Use A Travel Agency?There are many people who feel that it is not necessary to make use of a travel agency. From flight arrangements to booking accommodations, there are several aspects of planning a vacation that many individuals feel are simple. A common question is: Why spend money having someone plan a vacation for when you can do it yourself? This may be true in some instances; however, there are many benefits to using a travel agency. Remember, making travel arrangements and vacation plans can be a very stressful experience. Having to phone dozens of places and speaking to many front desk operators can be frustrating. You might think that this does not sound so bad, but setting aside enough time to do the appropriate amount of research can be difficult with a full time job, not to mention a family as well. A scenario such as this can lead to plenty of stress, or worse, a slip up with the vacation plan itself. Hotels, airlines and tourist attractions may be overlooked. The best options are sometimes not advertised. A seasoned travel professional (i.e. a travel agency) most likely will be better suited to provide you will the best options available, whether they are advertised or not. Yes, working with a travel agency costs money, but the service provided can relieve you of many hassles and save you time too.Inside TipsThe biggest advantage of travel agents is that they work constantly with hotels, resorts and other individuals in the travel industry. This means that you can be sure the arrangements your travel agency chooses fit your budget and your lifestyle. In addition, because travel agencies deal with vacations on a daily basis, they will also be able to inform you about the hottest destinations. You will not only receive the advantage of knowing what places are great to visit, travel agencies might also be able to give you great packages that will save you money. What Services Do Travel Agencies OfferWhen it comes to travel agencies, many people think that they offer a money wasting service. This is false; you get what you pay for and it relieves you of travel anxiety. The rule that everything will and must go wrong is no longer your concern Travel agents will advise you on the best locations there are and try to arrange a discounted package for you, which, if you were picking your own location, you would not be able to get.They also take care of all flight and traveling arrangements. They will book your flights both locally and internationally and confirm it just before you leave for vacation. For instance, if you need a car rental service, your travel agency will make all of the necessary arrangements. They will also finalize all accommodations at the hotel or resort of your choice and arrange for any special requirements you or your family has. Travel agencies will also create an itinerary for you. They will give you a list of places to visit and go sightseeing, and can make the all of the reservations as well. Travel agencies also offer great customer care and will check with you to see everything is going as planned. They want to ensure that your vacation goes smoothly and that you do not run into any complications. If you do find that you are having trouble on your holiday, the need to sort the problem out yourself is not necessary. Simply call your travel agent to deal with any hassles such as problems with your room, amenities, etc and they will correspond with the resort staff to ensure your stay is pleasant. An Added Advantage of Travel AgenciesBesides the fact that travel agencies know where all the hotspots are, they sometimes have the advantage of knowing about a certain place or resort before anyone else does. Usually travel agencies will be notified first about new places opening, which is an advantage to you. Because they are notified first about these destinations, you get a chance to visit a location that no one has been to before. Another advantage is that sometimes these new resorts require reviews and will allow travel agencies to refer customers to them in order to try the place. This is usually offered at a lower rate and so you save money for an equally fantastic vacation.



Jeremy Foster is a blogger and freelance writer who focuses on the travel industry and vacation tips, often discussing a particular aspect of the travel industry such as working with travel agents.

Navigating International Security Procedures

Traveling internationally can sometimes pose problems. Since September 11, United States airports have tightened security procedures significantly, and most other countries have followed suit. If you are not experienced with international travel, it can be frustrating to know what is and is not allowed, how long to plan for security checks, and how to make the process go faster. Here is your guide to navigating international security procedures. Before you leave on your vacation, no matter where you are going, it is important to do a little research on your travel destination. Some places are extremely receptive to United States travelers, while others have more strict security procedures. This varies from country to country, so there is not one single piece of advice that will help you deal with these procedures in every country you might travel to. It is best to anticipate delays no matter where you travel. How long will these delays be? It depends on where you are going, the size of the airport, how many bags you are carrying, and how many international travelers are at the airport at any given moment. In general, you should always arrive at the airport two hours in advance for an international flight, and in some cases, you may want to arrive even earlier. Plan to spend an additional hour after you land collecting your bags and going through security when you are visiting a foreign country. Of course, this varies greatly depending on your location, but if you think it will only take a few minutes to leave the airport, you will be easily frustrated.Beyond airport security, what else do you need to know about international travel? Well, for one, you need the right paperwork. Most people know that you need a passport to travel to other countries, but in the past few years, laws about passports have really tightened. Today, you need a passport to travel from the United States to any other country, even Canada and Mexico. You also need a passport to travel via water, so if you are planning a cruise that takes you into international waters, make sure you have your documents in order. For travel in some parts of the world, you need more than a passport. For instance, you may need a visitor visa to get around in some countries, and you might have to apply for other documents if you plan to stay for a longer period of time. Usually, these travel documents are fairly easy to get, but you have to apply for them early. Passports can take three to six months to be processed, and all countries have different deadlines for visas, should you need one. As soon as you know your dates of travel, make plans to apply for the right documentation. Along with documentation, for travel in some parts of the world, you need certain vaccinations. This is not just a matter of health; it is also a matter of security. If you are not up to date on your vaccinations, you could be carrying disease into the United States, putting others at risk. Depending on where you travel, you may need to show proof of proper vaccinations. The same goes for pets that are traveling with you, and in the vast majority of cases you cannot bring live animals, food, or other such items into the United States from a foreign country. Specific rules on this vary depending on the item and your travel destination. When you arrive, you will have to go through customs. There are two channels for international travelers in Europe and most other countries - the red channel and the green channel. The red channel is for travelers carrying anything not commonly permitted, which requires special documentation or permits. The green channel is for anyone else. The United States and Canada do not operate under the red/green channel system, so customs delays in these countries are sometimes longer. You should be prepared to show officials items that you have purchased and are bringing into the country when you arrive home, and you will have to pay fees and taxes on these items in some cases. Make sure you understand laws about what you can and cannot bring into the country, or items could be confiscated. International travel is not always quick and easy. Before you leave, though, if you make sure that you are prepared to deal with security, you will be able to get on with your vacation much more quickly. Try to remain patient with the people helping you through security - although it can be frustrating to wait in line after line, they are only helping to keep everyone safe. Staying calm and cooperating in a pleasant manner is the best way to approach navigating security, in any language or location



Cynthia Andrews is a freelance writer who writes about vacationing and the travel industry, often discussing tips and travel deals one would find through working with travel agents.

Travel Bookings

You have decided to take that trip and would like to have a memorable experience.You will need to plan ahead. The market is full of travel agents, bus companies, airliners, car rental brokers, etc.It will require you to decide on how you are gong to begin in travel bookings.If you are in a place where there is a travel agent that does local and international bookings, you may be well lucky.The challenge is when you are green in the travel bookings business. There are many options for you to make travel bookings. The first one is to choose to go the traditional way. That means that you go make travel bookings directly from the airline or transport company near you. In this way, you will only be following the previous experience with the company or the record that you know about it.The other option that you may have is to look for an agent that you know organizes bookings.If you would like a hassle free preparation for your bookings, an agent will be the most appropriate way to go to.Travel agents are basically equipped with all the relevant information about all means that you may be interested in taking. The charges are basically on commission basis.If you are the kind that will like to do a lot of exploration prior to the booking, you can choose to use the internet. A lot of airlines are insisting on online bookings. This is also very convenient for the user. You can also compare the rates by visiting the different sites that give travel services.You can either use a broker or go directly to the service providers' websites and do the same. You will of course want to use channels that will enable you to save on your travel bookings.

Sharon Aguirre
http://www.elegant-travel.com

Stratton Travel Attends Exclusive Luxury Travel Conference

Mahwah, NJ September 24, 2004 -- Over 2,000 top luxury travel agents from North and South America, the Caribbean and Australia " all part of the by-invitation-only Virtuoso travel network " recently convened in Las Vegas at the Bellagio for the ultimate summit of industry leaders. Thousands of individual meetings were conducted over a week between agents and top executives from the world's best cruise lines, hotels, resorts, airlines, tour operators and other travel-related companies. Mahwah, New Jersey-based Stratton Travel Management and parent company, VTS Travel Enterprises, were among the attendees.It was an amazing week of new information, updates and relationship building, said Robin Marcus, CTC, a Master Cruise Counselor at Stratton Travel, and we are honored to be among this elite group of travel professionals. Marcus continued, A personal connection is invaluable in this industry, and our clients truly benefit from this high-level networking as well as the most up-to-date knowledge of what's new, improved and on the horizon in luxury travel.To be considered for membership in Virtuoso, a travel agency must maintain a certain annual sales threshold with Virtuoso's elite travel industry partners, including hotel groups such as Ritz-Carlton, Four Seasons, Mandarin Oriental and St. Regis, as well as top cruise lines such as Crystal, Cunard, Silversea and Seabourn. Leveraging its $3 billion annual buying power, Virtuoso holds exclusive agreements with the world's leading hotels, resorts, spas, cruise lines, tour companies, rail lines, airlines and ground operators. Utilizing a Virtuoso specialist (such as those at Stratton Travel) to arrange upscale leisure travel automatically entitles clients to complimentary upgrades, amenities, privileged access opportunities and private events at many top international and domestic destinations. To find out more about top vacations worldwide, contact the following travel specialists: Tamsin Allpress at 888-697-0588 for exotic destinations; Robin Marcus at 888-456-9195 for luxury cruises, tours and spa vacations; Benita Herman at 888-488-0445 for expert cruise, tour and family travel guidance or call 800-223-0599 to find general information about Stratton Travel and its resources within the Virtuoso network of luxury travel agencies. About Stratton Travel ManagementStratton Travel Management is a Mahwah, New Jersey-based corporate and leisure travel agency with more than 35 on-site locations in the United States. Senior Stratton Travel agents work with corporate clients to consolidate purchasing power, leverage the latest travel technology and achieve cost savings through corporate travel policy enforcement and negotiated travel rates. As a Virtuoso agency, Stratton Travel's leisure division focuses on upscale, luxury travel for clients interested in traveling worldwide. Dedication to service and a superior understanding of each client's needs make Stratton Travel a great choice for all travelers, business or leisure!About VTS Travel EnterprisesVTS Travel Enterprises, Inc. is a leading travel management company located in Mahwah, New Jersey, specializing in managed corporate and leisure travel. Established in 1980, VTS Travel has grown through a program of strategic acquisitions and partnerships, increasing the number and quality of corporate, consumer and technology services offered. During this time, VTS Travel has become a leader in many aspects of the travel industry with over $500 million in current annual revenues, an employee base of over 400 national travel agents and 120 onsite representatives working within leading U.S. corporations. With services that range from telephone-based air, hotel and leisure reservations to Internet-based managed travel and reporting, VTS can supply an end-to-end travel solution for less.

Aimee J. Ricca of Bonne Amie Travel is Part of New Travel Channel Series

September 15, 2004 -- Aimee J. Ricca, CTA, ACC, DS, owner of Bonne Amie Travel, has been cast as one of nine travel experts in the Travel Channel's new flagship series, VACATION CHALLENGE. VACATION CHALLENGE features three completely different and exciting getaways that are presented by professional travel experts to a family or group of friends needing a vacation. Throughout these presentations, the planners give travel tips and insider information that anyone can use when they're planning a getaway.Aimee is an invaluable asset to VACATION CHALLENGE, said Laura Netscher, Senior Producer of the show. She is not only a fantastic on-camera personality but is a first-rate travel expert, first and foremost. Aimee and nine others were selected, out of hundreds of candidates, for this series because of their professionalism and expertise.VACATION CHALLENGE features three completely different and exciting getaways that are presented by professional travel experts to a family or group of friends needing a vacation. Throughout these presentations, the experts give travel tips and insider information that anyone can use when they're planning a getaway. The series is a great showcase for travel agents, said Ricca. It is the first time a television series will feature travel agents and it really demonstrates how we add value to a vacation.According to Ricca, the series focuses on the level of service a professional travel expert provides.We put together entire vacation packages, including restaurant reservations, activity planning, and have the right connections to have our clients treated as VIP's anywhere they go, explained Ricca. Travel agents have relationships with wholesalers that do not take bookings from consumers - This is where the best pricing is. Using these wholesalers, my pricing is often lower than the same exact package priced on the popular Internet travel sites. Plus, when you book with a travel agent, you receive service and support that are unmatched on the Internet.Once the travelers have been presented with the three choices, from three different experts, they choose the vacation they like best. The camera follows the travelers on their vacation and viewers at home get to see the destination through the traveler's eyes.It's pretty exciting to see the travelers actually take the trip, explained Ricca. I'm used to planning the trip and getting feedback...but, it's nice to see be able to see the travelers actually enjoying their trip for a change.The series began airing, in prime time, on the Travel Channel beginning Monday, September 6. The first three episodes featured the Los Angeles and Chicago casts of travel experts. The first episode to feature Ricca, and the rest of the East Coast cast, will air on Monday, September 27 at 8pm. The episode will feature a Bachelorette Vacation. The Travel Channel has a broad audience of over 78 million viewers. As part of Discovery Networks, the Travel Channel is known for its successful and highly educated viewership. Vacation Challenge is produced by Martin-Calvert Productions which has also produced series such as Travel Channel's "Secrets", the "Best of..." and "Top Ten."Ricca received her Bachelor of Arts in Communication from William Paterson University of New Jersey. She has also been certified by a number of associations and tourist boards. Among her many certifications are: Certified Travel Associate, Accredited Cruise Counsellor, Caribbean Destination Specialist, ASTA Family Travel Specialist, ASTA Niche Travel Specialist, Disney Specialist, Florida Specialist, Cayman Islands Specialist, Puerto Rico Travel Expert, Hawaii Destination Specialist, and Aruba Certified Expert. Ricca's highly regarded expertise has resulted in being featured by Cruise Trade magazine and quoted by various media outlets including: Travel Trade, Travel Weekly, New York Newsday, Chicago Tribune, USA Today, American Way (American Airlines in-flight magazine) Journey Magazine (America West in-flight magazine), Associated Press, CNN, MSNBC, Fox News, Honolulu Star-Bulletin, and The Camden Herald. She is also the Cruise Expert for InetVacation, answering readers cruise questions. Her agency is also recommended in Brenda Elwell's book The Single Parent Travel Handbook.Bonne Amie Travel has been in business since 2001 and specializes in luxury vacations and cruises, serving clients nationwide. Bonne Amie Travel is a member of the Cruise Lines International Association, American Society of Travel Agents, Association of Retail Travel Agents, Platinum Luxury Society, Network of Entrepreneurs Selling Travel, Better Business Bureau, and designated as California Seller of Travel (CST 2064669-40).For vacation consultations, call toll-free 1-866-302-0036. Bonne Amie Travel may also be contacted via its website: www.bonneamietravel.com

Lowest International Airfares

Finding the lowest airfare on international travel is complicated because it depends a lot on things like itinerary, departure city, number of stops, connecting flights, alternative airports, low cost airlines and so on. Given that, one has to search and look around for the best prices on many flights between different destinations before getting the lowest possible international airfare.So the first thing to do when looking for the lowest international airfare is to search the Internet. Use the different travel search engines such as Orbitz, Travelocity and Expedia to check for inexpensive flights on the international routes in which you plan to travel. Then call the airlines directly to see if they have any special offers or packages on those routes and make a note of it.Based on the result of your search and enquiry, take the lowest price and reduce it further by 15-20%. Now this is the clincher: visit travel auction websites such as Priceline.com or Hotwire.com or eBay.com and make a bid for the tickets with the reduced price. If the bid gets accepted by the airline you would have managed to get the lowest possible fare; if not, one can always go back to the lowest offer and pick that up.If this seems like too much work then there is another alternative. Try being a courier for a courier company and you can fly to different locations for a fraction of the price of commercial airfares. Courier companies use the luggage space of an aircraft passenger to transport things around the world. This works out much quicker and cheaper for the companies.So the courier company will purchase the ticket and sell it to the courier for a very good discounted price - maybe even free at times. In exchange for the ticket the courier will have to give them their luggage space. The down side is that as a courier the traveler can have only carry-on baggage, since the check-in space is being used for the company parcel.If none of these options work out for you, one can always buy tickets through a travel agent or tour operators. Most travels agents purchase bulk tickets from airlines as wholesalers and consolidators for a low price. They then offer those tickets with great discounts and at guaranteed low prices that can save anyone a lot of money. Some even utilize charter flights that reduce the costs further and this is a good method of saving money on international travel.Lowest Airfares provides detailed information on Guaranteed Lowest Airfares, Lowest Airfare Prices, Lowest Airfare Search, Lowest Airfare Tickets and more. Lowest Airfares is affiliated with Last Minute Airfares.Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jimmy_Sturo

RECOMMEND MAGAZINE UPS THE ANTE TO CAPTURE TRAVEL INDUSTRY MARKET DOMINANCE: New Look, New Publisher, Expanded Sales Force

MIAMI, FL August 2, 2003 " While most in travel publishing see gloom and doom, 36-year-old Recommend magazine sees opportunity. Recommend President Laurel Herman is going all out to capture the number one spot in publishing for the travel industry. The August 2003 is the fourth in its redesigned format and boasting a new publisher, Lorri Robbins, only the third in the magazine's history. Robbins' has an aggressive plan to expand magazine representation in key markets. Not long after Henry Luce launched Time magazine this country went into the Great Depression, yet the magazine survived, said Herman. Similarly, it has undoubtedly been tough times for the travel industry, but it's going to turn around and we'll be perfectly positioned when it does. We're already starting to see signs of positive change. The Travel Industry Association (TIA) and American Automobile Association (AAA) issued a joint Summer Travel Forecast report that showed a 2.5% increase in travel is expected during the peak travel months of June, July and August. In May, at the Travel Industry's annual International Pow Wow meeting, the U.S. Commerce Department forecasted the travel market would steadily increase in the coming years to fully rebound in 2006. They projected a 7% growth rate for 2004 and 2005 with it leveling off to 6% in 2006. These positive tourism signs confirm that Recommend's timing is right for an image revamping that includes a new logo, increased photo use, new easier to read typeface, open layout format and expanded editorial print and internet content. One thing that remains constant is the magazine's editorial approach that continues to provide the most in-depth, quality destination and travel product information to help travel agents sell. First published in 1967, Recommend magazine is the highest circulated travel trade publication in North America with more than 55,000 travel agent subscribers and a reach to over 200,000 agents. While our competitors write about the news of the industry, market research reveals that destination and travel product information is what travel agents want, said Herman. With the demise of airline commissions and the drop in business travel, agents need to sell leisure products to thrive and prosper and the best agents are informed about product, Herman continued. We're an information resource that helps agents sell, which at the end of the day is what matters most. That's the niche we've carved for ourselves and it is working.Their success can be seen in research released last month by Simmons Market Research Bureau, in which a random sample of 500 travel agents were asked their preferences of the three major industry publications of Recommend, Travel Agent and Travel Weekly. Travel agents picked Recommend #1 as the publication that best helped them sell travel, and, the publication emerged on top as providing the most in-depth editorial coverage. The research also revealed that two-thirds of travel agents surveyed preferred destination and travel product oriented magazines over industry news.The continued success of Recommend magazine can be attributed to the work of Herman, who spent the past 20 years as publisher of the industry magazine. With an eye to the future, Herman decided to turn the publication over to the exceptional talents of Lorri Robbins, as Herman focuses more of her attention to the growth of the magazine's parent company.Robbins brings industry experience and a fresh approach to Recommend. Robbins served as the Florida/Caribbean Sales Manager of Hachette Filipacchi's Travel Holiday magazine; she went on to launch American Media, Inc.'s Hispanic tabloid Mira!, and, in 2001, was hired by Recommend to be its National Ad Director, before becoming its Associate Publisher and now Publisher. Under Robbins' direction, advertising pages grew 13.8% from 2001 to 2002. Her business success and innovative spirit made her the number one choice to become publisher of Recommend. Now, Robbins is heating up the travel trade advertising competition by hiring additional Recommend sales staff in New York and California. Recommend is published monthly by Worth International Communications Corporation and has its headquarters in Miami, Fla. Recommend can be found online at www.recommend.com. Worth International Communications Corporation is a custom publisher that, in addition to its flagship publication Recommend Magazine, produces a variety of magazines and specialized publications for the travel and meeting industries. Its titles include: The Florida Official Meeting Planners Guide and Mexico Official Meeting and Incentive Planner. Worth Custom Publishing clients include: Continental Airlines and a number of tourism boards and convention and visitor bureaus such as the Greater Miami and Ft. Lauderdale Convention and Visitor's Bureaus and the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism.

Panda Software and Sabre converge on Computer Security for Latin America Travel Agents

In an effort to increase computer security across the Latin American travel industry, today Panda Antivirus Software and Sabre Holdings Corporation announced a joint strategy: Panda Software will provide antivirus software protection to 11,000 Sabre travel agencies in Latin America. These travel agencies, representing some 30,000 computers, will be offered Panda Software's low-cost, award winning desktop solution, Panda Antivirus Titanium. Panda Software is proud to be at the forefront of protecting the South American travel industry from cyber-threats, said Donna Wesley Rogers, General Manager of Panda Software, U.S. This, we hope, is only the first step, as we look forward to providing protection to all Sabre agencies " more than 60,000 worldwide, continued Rogers. The need for tightened cyber-security in the travel industry has never been higher, said Gloria Guevara, Director of Technology and Customer Service for Sabre, Latin America. We have endeavored to create the most secure travel environment in terms of computer security, and we feel confident that we are taking the right steps through our joint strategy with Panda Software, concluded Guevara.Panda Software is an international antivirus software company with offices is 45 countries worldwide. The software is translated into and available in 18 different languages, making it a perfect alliance for companies such as Sabre that provide services worldwide.About Sabre Holdings CorporationSabre is the leading provider of technology, distribution and marketing services for the travel industry. Headquartered in Southlake, Texas, in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex, the company has approximately 7,000 employees in 45 countries. Sabre reported 2001 revenues of $2.1 billion. Sabre owns Travelocity.com, the most popular travel site on the Web, and GetThere, the world's leading provider of Web-based travel reservation systems for corporations and travel suppliers. Sabre is an S&P 500 company, traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: TSG). More information about Sabre is available at www.sabre.com. Sabre and Passenger Reservations System are trademarks of Sabre, Inc. or an affiliate of Sabre, Inc.About the International Independent AV Developer:Panda Software (http://www.pandasecurity.com) is a leading international developer of computer security software, specializing in antivirus solutions for large networks. Their 100% in-house, cutting-edge technology has received awards and quality certifications from the most widely respected IT security institutions. Panda Software was the first to allow truly automatic, daily signature updates, as well as centralized administration of antivirus protection, both of which have revolutionized the antivirus industry. The quality of Panda Software's products has been endorsed by the major industry watchdogs including: Virus Bulletin, ICSA Labs and CheckMark.For more information:Carol Robbins Public Relations Directormailto:crobbins@pandasecurity.com(818) 543-6901www.pandasecurity.comArturo BustamanteSabre(305) 520-3342arturo.bustamante@sabre.com

International Travel Insurance - Don't Leave Home Without It

Does this sound familiar? You've saved and saved for that perfect vacation you've always dreamt about. You're in the travel agent's office, you've just purchased your very expensive ticket and she's saying that you should buy some international travel insurance too. You roll your eyes because you're sure all this international travel insurance business is nonsense and she's just trying to get some more of your money. You say no thanks. While on your vacation, you crash your car and get hurt. Guess what? You've got to foot all the expenses yourself and because you didn't want to get international travel insurance.For those of you who aren't familiar with it, international travel insurance is a must have if you intend to travel out of your own country. Since you're not familiar, right about now you're probably asking what international travel insurance is. Simply put, it is a temporary insurance policy which you buy before you leave on your trip. Typically, coverage lasts the full duration of your trip but, depending on who you're insured with, your international travel insurance can be extended for up to 12 months.A lot of people couldn't be bothered with the added expense but there is always the small possibility that something can happen. A good international travel insurance policy will provide three things: good coverage at a reasonable price, readily available emergency assistance and efficient claims processing. It should also cover most circumstances. Your international travel insurance isn't adequate if it doesn't cover medical expenses, medical evacuation, travel cancellation and deferment costs, loss of luggage, rental vehicle expenses, death expenses, personal liability and legal expenses.There is most often a need for international travel health insurance, to cover medical expenses. This can include hospital stays, medication and doctor's fees. However, international travel health insurance is a godsend in more critical situations as it also covers ambulance services and emergency-related travel expenses, which is especially important in third world countries where supplies are limited and you may need to be transported to another country.While you may not think that the cost of such international travel health insurance coverage is justified for a short, weekend trip, if you're going to be hiking through malaria infested forests over those two days, you might want to think again. Use your discretion. It's much better to be prepared for a possible emergency than to fall ill or get injured and not have any international travel health insurance coverage.

Most Know Tips On Becoming A Home Based Travel Agent?

If your thinking of becoming a home based travel agent you might want to consider the following things. Most home-based travel agents are independent contractors who work with a host agency. You use the host agencies resources and established relationships to tap into their network of travel vendors and suppliers. When considering a host agency you want to know things like your commission split when profits come in from your bookings. Will your commission be paid in a timely manner? Find out how long your host agency has been in business and if they are reputable. Getting up to date on the best places to travel, tourism, and how to fulfill the needs of your customer is vital to your travel business. Find out if the company offers comprehensive training and courses on various travel services, products, marketing, etc . You want to develop a good expertise and become a knowledgeable resource for you customers. For some host agencies, taking a course or training is necessary to be eligible for certain travel credentials, although it is not required to book travel. As a home based travel agent you will need certain credentials like the CLIA card. CLIA stands for the Cruise Line Industry Association. This industry recognized credential allows you special agent rates on discounted cruises and offers a whole array of benefits to you and your customer. To be recognized as a travel agency most host agencies are usually bonded and accredited through ARC/IATAN. ARC was established by the travel industry to provide prompt, efficient, and secure distribution and settlement of travel purchased in the U.S. IATAN-International Airlines Travel Agent Network endorses travel agents and provides the IATAN ID card, which identifies you as a US based travel sales professional. Most agencies will provide you with their IATAN/ARC number for you to be able to use outside travel vendors and suppliers that don't have established relationships with your host agency, however for some other credentials like CLIA, training is required but not a requirement to book travel.Most travel companies offer some assistance with marketing your travel business. Check to see if they offer a turn-key website or online booking engine for your clients to book travel on. Do they have auto responders to handle email campaigns and promotions? Find out to see if they provide ready-made templates to print business cards, postcards, flyers, etc. These are all the tools in your marketing arsenal that will help you get the word out about your home-based travel business. Most host agencies handle all the booking and travel details for your clients, but what happens if a name is misspelled on a plane ticket? Or your customer wants a refund? Find out what type customer support is available and read their policies. Do they offer 24hrs/day 7 days week telephone support? Is it email based? You want to know these things so you can provide a quick turn-around should a problem arise in the booking process or afterwards. Customers like to have speedy resolution to their problems so make sure you know what type of support is in place.Since you will be working out of home and on your own, medical insurance plans or group coverages are sometimes offered. Check to see if they have group plans that you can buy into. There are relatively inexpensive and will save you a lot of money versus buying a medical plan on your own.The opportunity to go on a FAM trip is the most appealing benefit to travel agents. Fam trips are short for familiarization. These are special trips specifically for the travel agent. These trips are offered by hotels, cruise lines, convention and visitor bureaus, and tour companies. The intent of the trip is to familiarize the agent with the product or service so that they can then sell the service or product to their clients. By experiencing the product, agents can sell it more effectively. These trips are either totally free or have a small cost involved to cover the expense of the trip. These fam trips are offered at a huge discount compared to what it would cost to the average consumer. Owning your own travel business you can take advantage of many tax breaks. Deductions are allowed for you initial investment, home office expenses, cell phone and land lines, automobile, computer, fax machine, insurance, and other equipment. In addition from now on, when you travel anywhere in the world, it's a business expense.Overall becoming a home based travel agent has some major perks and benefits. The important thing is to find a good host agency and become familiar with your product so that you can offer the best travel experience for your customers. Doing this will keep a consistent flow of repeat and new business.

A Review Of The Guardian International Travel Income Opportunity

Guardian International TravelTraveling on vacation is a great family venture. Unfortunately it can also be an expensive one. Taking a cruise, trips to the Bahamas, or even taking the kids to Disney World costs a few thousand dollars and a lot of planning. Guardian International Travel offers people a way to do all of this and make some money while you are at it.Guardian International Travel was started in February 2005 by Swainson Hawke, a board game inventor and certified forex day trader. A sales and marketing company for profit, the company adheres to a strict policy that does not allow any Internet marketing by their members. All sales must be made in person via the telephone or mail.The products sold by the company all have to do with the travel industry. The Zee Card membership allows the customer to be able to book travel deals from airline tickets to hotels and motels to entertainment. Cost of this card is $189.95 plus an $18.95 monthly subscription fee. The website includes a coupon printing demonstration so interested parties can see how this option works. The Condo Card offers members discounts and rebates to thousands of hotels and resort locations around the world. These cards have an expiration date of ten years and can be purchased for a value of up to $25,000.00. There is a resort search page available on the website that can help the customer determine where they can use the card. There are even rebates available for using your Condo Card. Guardian International Travel also has a Cruise Card and opportunities in Asia. Prices for the cards are not clearly specified. The company offers special discounts for children as well.There are four levels of memberships available by the company. They range in price from free to memberships costing over two thousand dollars. Getting started is fairly simple. After signing up, members make an initial purchase of at least $550.00 on a Condo Card. Each level of membership is awarded their own website similar to the company's main site, back office privileges, and the ability to purchase products at a wholesale price. Profits are earned when the purchased product is sold at the retail value. The member then receives the difference in a commission check awarded on the fifteenth of each month. The website also states that to join you must have a referral by a current member.Unfortunately, according to industry information, Guardian International Travel has not issued a commission check since March of 2007. There are a lot of negative things being said about the company and they are no longer accepting new members.This venture is definitely not for a low-income or fixed income member. Getting started is quite expensive and many travel agents offer the same types of discounts at a more reasonable rate. With the negative things that have also been said about the company, and the fact that they have not issued a check in eight months, this is not a lucrative business. Potential members would be better served by looking into another company to invest in.

Why You Need International Travel Insurance

It has been noted that most international travelers do are not granted the kind of insurance coverage that is necessary for them while traveling abroad. In order to fill this vacuum and placate the ever growing population of foreign travelers around the world, International Travel Insurance comes to the fore. This helps you in taking care of all matters from sudden ticket cancellations, to tour changes, accidents, unprecedented illnesses and sudden death.Government sponsored health programs are just not enough at times, to take care of any kind of medical emergency that might happen to you while you are out on a holiday on foreign shores, where help might not be at hand easily. Theses days there are company-sponsored insurance plans which do cover a bare minimum of emergency situations. However it has been noticed that in such cases, emergency medical evacuation is almost never given importance in the arrangements made for travel.Most of the time international travel insurance agents are asked about why one needs insurance while traveling. What most people don't realize is that it could be very difficult for you if you or a member of your family falls sick in a foreign country.If you are not familiar with health care facilities or necessary medical requirements in foreign countries you might run the risk of being not being treated for your problem. It is particularly difficult because you might be amidst unfamiliar situations, and might have to deal with a different cultural set ups and medical systems too. Apart from this lack of proper resources to help you when you need immediate medical care can be a serious problem. This apart, hospital expenditures, and any other treatment related costs can pose a problem too.Different hospital systems in different countries have rules that may differ in matters of providing treatment or even obtaining a discharge from the hospital. In such cases guarantees, such as those given by travel insurance companies are safer and accepted. You might have to pay in advance for this though, a sum of about a thousand dollars through your credit card.Most international travel insurance plans have two or three different types of insurance categories, such as:Medical Evacuation, in case of emergencies it can be necessary at times. Evacuations are usually expensive affairs, with an international travel insurance plan this could be much easier for you. Apart from covering for the expenses, you would need help in terms of arrangements made for evacuation from the particular place to your home. Usually most travel insurance includes medical evacuation benefits, so that you can be safely taken back home in case of an emergency. It is the responsibility of the insurance company to arrange for your evacuation with a reputed evacuation company, while ensuring the presence of a medical team too.Trip cancellation coverage covers the losses you might have to incur, in case your pre destined trip is cancelled for reasons both medical and otherwise. For example if you have made holiday plans but can't make it because of some sickness, you are entitled only a small refund from the planners. O the other an insurance coverage could help you in getting a larger amount of money.Another type of insurance coverage that is provided is the accident or health insurance, this type of a plan covers your medicine, hospital and doctor bills, and in some cases dental care too. Such plans are good for a short trip. For extended trips to foreign countries for a period of 6 months to a year, you could buy a primary insurance.Make sure before you invest in an international travel insurance plan that it includes one or more of the clauses mentioned here.

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The Importance Of International Travel Medical Insurance

Traveling on vacation or business is usually a lot of fun; exploring new places and cultures while enjoying new cuisines adds to the experience and pleasure of visiting new destinations but, at the same time, you must take into consideration the possibility of any sort of accident that may happen at any given moment. Therefore, international travel medical insurance is essential every single time you take a trip abroad.Where And How To Obtain International Travel Medical InsuranceUsually, when you book your vacation, your travel agent is responsible for letting you know about international travel medical insurance as well as its coverage and cost. All airlines expect you to have one as a requirement in order to be able to fly out of the country.If you are booking your flight tickets online, then you will probably be prompted to purchase international travel medical insurance as well; the insurance itself is not very expensive depending on the regulation of the country you are about to visit as each country applies different laws and regulations.What Does International Travel Medical Insurance Cover?International travel medical insurances usually covers any accidents that may happen when you are traveling; emergency evacuation and sometimes even refunds of travel costs; this feature usually differs from one insurance company to the other. Take a moment and read the medical insurance you are about to buy for even if you may never expect to have any such emergencies you never know what may happen next and you will need to fall back on the medical insurance you just purchased.Helpful TipInternational travel medical insurance is a precautionary matter that most travelers need to carry even if they have other medical insurances as well; they cover international laws and regulations and, therefore, apply only when you leave the country.International travel medical insurances differ vastly depending on the country you are about to visit, therefore, ask all relative questions before you are in an emergency situation and realize that you don't even know how to get in touch with your insurance company or what types of accidents they cover.Accidents happen everyday and even if it is the last thing that will ever cross your mind when planning a vacation or trip abroad, being careful and prepared can only keep you safe in case you should ever need international travel medical insurance.

Why International Travel Medical Insurance Is Essential

Traveling on vacation or business is usually a lot of fun; exploring new places and cultures while enjoying new cuisines adds to the experience and pleasure of visiting new destinations but, at the same time, you must take into consideration the possibility of any sort of accident that may happen at any given moment. Therefore, international travel medical insurance is essential every single time you take a trip abroad.Where And How To Obtain International Travel Medical InsuranceUsually, when you book your vacation, your travel agent is responsible for letting you know about international travel medical insurance as well as its coverage and cost. All airlines expect you to have one as a requirement in order to be able to fly out of the country.If you are booking your flight tickets online, then you will probably be prompted to purchase international travel medical insurance as well; the insurance itself is not very expensive depending on the regulation of the country you are about to visit as each country applies different laws and regulations.What Does International Travel Medical Insurance Cover?International travel medical insurances usually covers any accidents that may happen when you are traveling; emergency evacuation and sometimes even refunds of travel costs; this feature usually differs from one insurance company to the other. Take a moment and read the medical insurance you are about to buy for even if you may never expect to have any such emergencies you never know what may happen next and you will need to fall back on the medical insurance you just purchased.Helpful TipInternational travel medical insurance is a precautionary matter that most travelers need to carry even if they have other medical insurances as well; they cover international laws and regulations and, therefore, apply only when you leave the country.International travel medical insurances differ vastly depending on the country you are about to visit, therefore, ask all relative questions before you are in an emergency situation and realize that you don't even know how to get in touch with your insurance company or what types of accidents they cover.Accidents happen everyday and even if it is the last thing that will ever cross your mind when planning a vacation or trip abroad, being careful and prepared can only keep you safe in case you should ever need international travel medical insurance.

International Travel Insurance - Don't Leave Home Without It

Does this sound familiar? You've saved and saved for that perfect vacation you've always dreamt about. You're in the travel agent's office, you've just purchased your very expensive ticket and she's saying that you should buy some international travel insurance too. You roll your eyes because you're sure all this international travel insurance business is nonsense and she's just trying to get some more of your money. You say no thanks. While on your vacation, you crash your car and get hurt. Guess what? You've got to foot all the expenses yourself and because you didn't want to get international travel insurance.For those of you who aren't familiar with it, international travel insurance is a must have if you intend to travel out of your own country. Since you're not familiar, right about now you're probably asking what international travel insurance is. Simply put, it is a temporary insurance policy which you buy before you leave on your trip. Typically, coverage lasts the full duration of your trip but, depending on who you're insured with, your international travel insurance can be extended for up to 12 months.A lot of people couldn't be bothered with the added expense but there is always the small possibility that something can happen. A good international travel insurance policy will provide three things: good coverage at a reasonable price, readily available emergency assistance and efficient claims processing. It should also cover most circumstances. Your international travel insurance isn't adequate if it doesn't cover medical expenses, medical evacuation, travel cancellation and deferment costs, loss of luggage, rental vehicle expenses, death expenses, personal liability and legal expenses.There is most often a need for international travel health insurance, to cover medical expenses. This can include hospital stays, medication and doctor's fees. However, international travel health insurance is a godsend in more critical situations as it also covers ambulance services and emergency-related travel expenses, which is especially important in third world countries where supplies are limited and you may need to be transported to another country.While you may not think that the cost of such international travel health insurance coverage is justified for a short, weekend trip, if you're going to be hiking through malaria infested forests over those two days, you might want to think again. Use your discretion. It's much better to be prepared for a possible emergency than to fall ill or get injured and not have any international travel health insurance coverage.

You: A Travel Agent?

For many Americans, becoming a travel agent could be a big step in the right direction when it comes to choosing a rewarding career that's fast paced and offers wonderful incentives. In fact, travel is one of the largest industries in the world and offers many benefits to hard-working individuals. Job DescriptionTravel agents assess individual's and businesspeople's needs to help them make the best possible travel arrangements. An agent may specialize by type of travel, such as leisure or business, or destination, such as Europe or Africa. Travel agents also promote travel packages on behalf of cruise lines, resorts and specialty travel groups.Travel agents held about 88,600 jobs in 2005. While most travel agents work in agencies, a growing number are home based or work for themselves.Educational RequirementIn order to become a travel agent, one must have, at least, a high school diploma or the equivalent. Increasingly, because of the use of computers and technology, employers prefer job candidates who have received vocational training. Some employers look for job candidates who have taken college courses in computer science, foreign languages, geography and world history. On a typical day, a travel agent will: • Give advice on destinations; • Make arrangements for transportation, hotel accommodations, car rentals, tours and recreation; • Advise on weather conditions, restaurants, tourist attractions and recreation; • Provide information on customs regulations, required papers (passports, visas and certificates of vaccination) and currency exchange rates to international travelers; • Consult published and computer-based sources for information on departure and arrival times, fares, and hotel ratings and accommodations; • Visit hotels, resorts and restaurants to evaluate comfort, cleanliness and quality of food and service.

Traverus Online - Travel Agent School Review

Traverus a.k.a Traverus travel, is an international travel company & university based in Allen Texas. This online travel agent school is responsible for thousands of agents world wide in over 90 countries and trains thousands more each year. The Ceo and president of the company is David Manning, David is also a trainer and motivational speaker for the company.Trainings are done at live locations around the country, then recorded in video or audio format in your student's area online. The online area is encrypted by password and contains all of the agent's tools, schedules and profile information. The student's area is very organized and user friendly, making it one of the more convenient travel agent schools.The teachers are friendly and always willing to help one on one if extra assistance is needed. Almost all of your exams are done online, then submitted to the main office to be evaluated by the instructor that trained the agent. There is also a wide variety of tools available at this online travel agent school, like customizable business cards and marketing systems, that are put in place to help get exposure and customers for the agent.One of the best aspects of the company is the ability for the agent in training, to earn while they learn. Agents are provided on the job training and are able to interact with live vendors to book travel vacations for customers and earn a commission. The commission earned is sent to the school for the travel agent by the vendor and the agent will get 70-80% of that commission.The commission is paid to the agent by check, debit card, or bank wire. As an agent in training you get access to special member trips , discounts on rental cars, hotels and various theme parks. After you have completed the travel agent course, you are presented with your C.T.A. or certified travel agent diploma, to complete your travel agent certification.In conclusion to this online travel agent school review, I think its safe to say, when you combine the Traverus referral program, with your new travel agent certification, your income potential will be unlimited and you will have a recession proof job. Included with your new career are all the incentives you get with Traverus as a bonus.

To get a full video review and more information about the Traverus university visit...

http://travelasis.com

UniverCell introduces new travel agent commission program

BALTIMORE, Jan 6, 2003 At a time when many airlines are cutting commissions to travel agents by as much as 80%, UniverCell Global Phone Rentals, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of UniverCell Holdings, Inc., (UVCL) (www.rentalcell.com) a leading international cellular phone rental company in the United States, has announced a commission program for travel agents that will pay $20.00 for every international cell phone rental referral plus a $100.00 bonus for ten or more rentals in a month, and commissions are paid weekly. Experienced travelers know that most U.S. cell phones are incapable of working overseas. For years, they have had to use hotel phones that, for example, can cost $16.00 for the first minute for a London to Chicago call. UniverCell phones are up to 70% less expensive than hotel phones and 30%-50% less than their competitors. The same call on a UniverCell phone from London to Chicago would have been 75 cents a minute, and incoming calls would have been free. Rental fees are $25.00 for the first week and $20.00 for each additional week. Call charges range from 75 cents to $2.99 per minute for outgoing calls, and from FREE to $1.99 per minute for incoming calls. "UniverCell does everything for the travel agents and their clients," says Becky Goldberg, vice president of agent relations. "All they have to do is ask: 'Do you need a cell phone on your trip?' If the client says 'yes,' there is just one simple form to complete, send to UniverCell, and we do all the rest." Overnight, UniverCell will send a Motorola v66 cell phone that works on the GSM (global standard for mobile communications) system so travelers can place and receive calls worldwide. Each package contains the cell phone, in-room and car chargers, a hands-free kit, an extra battery and a leather case. There's even a prepaid return envelope to send the package back to UniverCell. UniverCell will begin offering phones with U.S. numbers for rental to select countries in March. Currently, all operators rent phones with international phone numbers. UniverCell customers receive complimentary voice mail service, caller ID, call waiting, call conferencing and are Internet-ready. UniverCell has an agreement with Avis-Rent-A-Car to be their exclusive international cell phone rental company for Avis clients. There is no cost to travel agents to join the UniverCell program. For more information or to join, travel agents can call 1-800-765-2355, ext. 8145, or e-mail www.beckyg@rentalcell.com. The Beaumont Group, New YorkMaria Sclafani, 212/867-0228

What Is A Home Based Travel Agent?

Many people are unclear about the travel industry. Travel agents are often thought to be the same as real estate agents. Becoming a travel agent or more specifically a home based travel agent is an exciting career change or retirement option. Some people do it full time while many do it as a part time business.A travel agent books travel for customers and is paid by suppliers a commission on the booking. For bookings that suppliers do not pay a commission on, a travel agent also can charge the client a service fee for his/her time. An example is if you were to book a hotel for a client, the hotel would then send a check to the agency after the client checked out. Most hotels pay 10% of the price of the hotel before taxes and fees. A $100 per night hotel reservation would mean $10 a night for the travel agent who made the booking. This hotel would cost the same whether the customer uses a travel agent or books through the hotel directly. In many cases the travel agent can get a better price. It costs the customer nothing to use the travel agent unless the travel agent charges service fees.Can anyone do this? In order to work with suppliers, you must have an account set up with the supplier. Most require an agency to hold an IATAN, CLIA or ARC number. IATAN stands for International Airlines Travel Agent Network. CLIA stands for Cruise Lines International Association. ARC stands for Airline Reporting Corporation. Each of these memberships requires different things including sales, money in the bank, experience or training in the industry, and membership fees. Many will require Errors and Omissions insurance of $1,000,000 or more.For the average travel agent, membership is not a possibility with some organizations so the agent will team up with an agency and work as an independent agent or outside agent. There are also advantages of working with an agency because most travel agents cannot make enough in sales with a particular supplier to obtain higher commission levels and bonuses. Working with an agency with many agents can increase the commission percentages the agent gets because of the joint sales of all the agents at the agency. Support is also a very important aspect of being a successful agent. Agents who do not work with others tend to feel more isolated and have to learn to do it all solo. Since no agent can have the experience of being everywhere in the world or staying at every hotel or resort, having others that you can get advice from is really helpful.The future of travel agencies is always questioned. The truth is the industry has changed in many ways. Some changes were for the better, some for the worse. Many airlines have cut commissions for travel agents. However, there are many other suppliers who are paying travel agents more than they were ten years ago. Cruises used to be booked by only the rich and now people in every income book cruises. Each year more and more people go on cruises. Most people say they want to go on a cruise at least once and many who go on their first come home to want to book another.You can earn commission on many travel reservations.HotelsRental CarsTour PackagesCruisesSome airline ticketsInternational airline ticketsTravel insuranceGround transportation including limosAttraction ticketsTrain ticketsPeople all need travel arrangements at some point in time. Those who take road trips need hotel reservations. Those who need to travel for business need airline tickets, rental cars, and hotel reservations. Families want to experience vacations with their loved ones. People visit family and relatives. Most people who win money say they are going to spend it to take a nice vacation. Newly married couples go on honeymoons. You are not selling something that is hard to sell. People contact you for help, you are not calling them or approaching them trying to sell them something they don't want.Educating the public is the main thing any travel agent must do. Most people put travel agents into the same category as real estate agents. They believe it costs additional to use a travel agent. This is untrue. In many cases a travel agent can get a better price than the general public through the suppliers who work only with travel agents. Many people do not know all the options for booking a vacation. A good travel agent does. Once people are educated on how a travel agent gets paid, they are more willing to work with travel agents. If a person knows that if he or she let you book a hotel and it will cost the same price regardless, she or he will work with you. It is important to let people know how you can help them save time and money on their travel arrangements.So how do you get into the industry? Many people think they must go to school or become certified. This is not true. You can get into the industry and begin training. I don't recommend anyone spend thousands on a travel school until he or she knows this is a career that he or she will really want to pursue. The truth is you do not have to spend thousands to get trained. There are many courses free to travel agents from suppliers. There are also organizations such as ICTA (Institute of Certified Travel Agents) who offer courses as you get more years experience in the industry. CLIA also offers courses. There are some agencies that will offer training. Even if you decide this is a career you would like to pursue, you do not need to spend thousands to become an educated and competent travel agent. There are many courses you can take with suppliers and organizations to get a better education in travel. I truly believe a hands' on approach is the best way to become a better travel agent. Learning to work with suppliers and how to find the information your clients need is an important part of becoming a good travel agent.How can you find an agency to work with? There are a few organizations dedicated to independent travel agents. NACTA and OSSN are the top organizations. NACTA stands for National Association of Commissioned Travel Agents. OSSN stands for Outside Sales Support Network. You can also search online for home-based travel agent programs. I would never recommend anyone spending a lot of money to start this business. It is key to first try and see if it is something you would really want to do and get training before you invest too much money into it. Get involved in the industry first and see if it is really a career that is best for you.Jennifer Dugan CTAOwner of Dugan's TravelsTravel agent since 1993http://www.duganstravels.comCopyright 2004 Jennifer Dugan