In episode 175 Steph is co-hosting with Kendra Tainsh of Travel Edge! Here are the questions they cover in this variety-filled episode!

1. I am not in Canada -- is this still pertinent? I would, however love to speak to someone about how to narrow down the overwhelming selection of host agencies to find one that fits my niche. I am just starting out. My niche is environmental based trips in nature featuring hiking, snorkeling, scuba and just relaxing for those who want to. --Robin R.

2. Hey, Long time listener first time caller, LOL. I am getting a new website and I want to list my advisor fee. Where do you recommend I list out the information of my advisor fee on my website.Thanks, –Quincy in Houston

3. I have an interest in working with boutique suppliers, especially accommodations such as boutique hotels and Bed and Breakfasts. I'm wondering how host agencies mix with boutique suppliers? Do they generally have these connections? Am I able to make these connections and book with these suppliers using my host agency’s IATA number? I heard from a friend that smaller, boutique suppliers don't like working with host agencies? Any truth to that? Looking forward to hearing your take. Thank you HAR team! --Laura

RESOURCES:

Software

All about preferred suppliers in the travel industry. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-preferred-supplier)

Advice on how to find the best host agency. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/tips-on-how-to-find-the-best-travel-host-agency)

https://hostagencyreviews.com/page/travel-advisor-research-reports/ (Travel agent survey data on fee charging practices: what they charge for, how much, fee structures and more.)

https://bookitboxtravel.com/services

https://www.travel-bash.com/faqs

https://www.memoriesonthemovetravel.com/personalized-travel-planning-services

All about preferred suppliers in the travel industry. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-preferred-supplier)

What is a DMC and what do they do? (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-dmc-destination-management-company)

In episode 174 Steph is co-hosting with Heather Kindred of Nexion! Check it out below – a record-breaking four questions that they’ll cover! Tune in this Friday at 12 pm CST.

1. What is defined as a FAM? Would I be able to describe it as a business trip on my tax filing? Do I have to have any official reports, etc.? –Anonymous

2. Why are host agencies apprehensive about advisors having access to the GDS systems? Or they say it "takes years" to master? And with some hosts you have to have 2 or more years experience to qualify in order to have access. I used Sabre years ago and it only took a few months to learn and with Sabre Red 360 it seems easier than ever. Reentering the travel industry I have a corporate background and I will be temporarily booking air only until I learn leisure efficiently and using Sabre would be so much easier than using a CRM all I would need is a refresher in Sabre. Please help. Thank you. –Robin B.

3. Do you have a list of host agencies that have GDS access? —Anonymous

4. Has anyone purchased any additional training courses beyond HAR's? HAR's has been great for getting me started. I would be lost without it! However, now, after being in business for about six months, I want to learn more, especially about marketing and growing my business. I want something that offers some certification along with a mentorship. In my research, I have found a wide range of costs. Do you have advice on picking a program to leap to next or any programs you love and have found helpful? —Anonymous

RESOURCES:

What travel expenses you can (and can’t) write off. https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-expenses

Travel Agent FAM Trips: What They Are + How to Find Them + Etiquette (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-agent-fam-trip)

Over 200+ travel agent rates and info on how to access them

How Travel Advisors Can Make the Most of a Cruise Ship Inspection (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/how-travel-agents-can-make-the-most-of-a-cruise-ship-inspection)

The Definitive Site Inspection Checklist (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/definitive-site-inspection-checklist)

Stephanie Cannon–CPA turned travel advisor–financial resources for advisors (https://withstephaniecannon.com/resources)

In-depth information on what the GDS (global distribution system) is and which travel advisors use it. https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/what-is-gds

Tips on how to become a...

In episode 173 Steph and Lindsay Taylor answer a bunch of excellent questions submitted by you, our faithful viewers and listeners. If you have a question, by the way, send it our way at https://hostagencyreviews.com/friday15!

2. I’ve decided to expand my agency and diversify income. I plan to open my host agency division soon. Do you have any tips for someone starting a host agency from scratch? —Anonymous

3. Hi, I am wondering how to join 'preferred agency program' (e.g. Marriott Luminous, Hyatt Prive etc.). All the program says they are invitation-only but I am wondering what the general criteria is. Does joining a consortium help to become eligible? –Anonymous

RESOURCES:

HAR’s travel jobs board. Subscribe to weekly jobs email of new postings! (https://hostagencyreviews.com/travel-jobs)

ASTA’s Roadmap to Becoming a Travel Advisor is a fantastic course for those looking to have a strong foundation before starting in the industry! Steph partnered with ASTA on it and they have a track for employees, independent contractors (ICs), and corporate travel agents. (https://har.news/roadmap)

ARC fraud protection resources (https://www2.arccorp.com/support-training/fraud-prevention)

Veriff identity verification (https://www.veriff.com/)

Older HAR blogs with some resources on credit card fraud and thinking like a frauster. A little dated, but still good content to read through.

PATH: Professional Association of Travel Hosts (need to be 50 ICs or more to join)

All about preferred suppliers in the travel industry. (https://hostagencyreviews.com/blog/travel-preferred-supplier)