Travel Agents
Description
Travel agents advise travellers upon travel arrangements, make bookings and receive payment for travel arrangements made.
Tasks
- Discusses client requirements and shows brochures containing suitable packages establishes availability with tour operators and makes bookings consults travel time-tables, books travel tickets and accommodation handles cash, debit and credit card payment informs client of any changes in travel arrangements advises on issues of currency, passports, visa requirements, insurance, car hire, vaccinations and other health precautions
Entry Requirements
There are no formal academic entry requirements, although many employers require entrants to possess GCSEs/S grades. Off and on-the-job training is usually available. NVQs/SVQs in travel services at Levels 2 and 3, BTEC, apprenticeships and higher level qualifications are available.
Case Study
Jerome Angus
Hospitality Supervision & Leadership - Level 3 Diploma
Jerome says: "I chose to study at Merton College because it has excellent facilities for my Hospitality & Catering course. The College is very welcoming and my tutors are very supportive. As part of my course, I deliver a service to customers that visit the Taste Restaurant and I really enjoy interacting with them. We regularly host events and I like working as a team to co-ordinate these events. For example, we are often visited by members of the local community who come to the restaurant for lunch."
Once Jerome has completed his Diploma, he intends to study a Higher Level Apprenticeship in Hospitality and work for a major restaurant chain. His ultimate goal is to own a chain of restaurants one day.
