What is the difference between a travel agent and a vacation club?

You see so many people posting on line become a travel agent by joining.  Ask what organization they belong to is it world venture or paycation?  If it is you joining a MLM (mid-level marketing group).  To me it would be like a vacation club.

The benefits that you receive because of the club are great if you go on one of their planned trips.  But the way it works is that you have people join under you.  The more that you can get to join the better your benefits.

However I want to clarify a very important fact.  You are not a travel agent when you join a MLM.  You are selling a membership to a club that gives travel benefits.

If you are part of an organization like this please tell your prospective recruits up front what you are.  Sell it as a vacation club not do you want to be a travel agent.  Like Amway which had some really good products, your organization also has some benefits.  But not all people want to belong to a club.

For those that belong to Costco they also have some great pricing on specific packages.  If you can fit your travel plans into one of their packages it is a very good deal and you already belong!

Like a time share everything has its benefits.  But you need to know what you are entering into.  Keeping in mind that you are not a travel agent but in a club.

What does a travel agent do?​​​​​  A travel agent will book you to any destination or package that you would like.  You are not limited to just the cruise or tour that is being offered but the world.  They will guide you by finding out what you are interested in seeing and doing along with what documentation is needed.  In fairness all of the above including the Online agencies do advise you, you just have to read it.  You know, it is the small printed stuff that everyone checks that they read but really did not.  Sound familiar!  However we will tell you verbally and in writing. 

A travel agent is revolving into a consultant working for you!  We all know that you can book your own travel.  But what do you do when you get to the airport and your passport only has three months left and you need six?  Your flight cancelled and you will miss the ship?  Or maybe the hotel your choose is really not what you thought!  

It is always good to know when you need professional help and when you might be able to go it alone.  No matter how you book get all of the facts upfront.  If you are leaving the country a passport or passport card is needed. Also ​some states now need a passport to fly.  Start reading the small print and enjoy traveling!

Until next time.​
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