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How to Start a Travel Agency Business

If you're interested in starting your own travel agency, you may find that this is one of the easiest businesses to start, even for those new to the travel industry. Often, this business requires very little training to start and even less start-up cash. Some people have even been able to start their businesses for less than $500. Once you get your business up and running, you may find getting customers easy too. There's always someone interested in booking a hotel, taking a cruise, or jetting off for a last-minute vacation. Instructions Call your state's Department of Licensing, and ask whether or not you need a special license to start a travel agency business. Many states do not require such licensing. If your state does require you to obtain a travel agency license, expect to pay a fee for it. Obtain a general business license for the area in which you live or plan to operate your business. Most cities and towns require such licensing of all businesses, even if th

How to Start a Home Based Travel Agency with Little Money

Today, unemployed people are seeking ways to work at home because of the unreliable job market. Starting a home based travel agency is a great low cost way to start a home business with little money, while making great commissions. Almost anyone with the determination can start up their very own (and very profitable) travel agency. Things You'll Need Computer Internet Travel Reservation Software Phone Line Printer/Fax Creativity Instructions Make Sure You Have the Necessary Skills - At minimum, travel agents must have a high school diploma and a good grasp of computer and internet skills. You should also a good telephone voice and manner since you will be talking to lots of people. (Even the occasional unsatisfied or hard to please customer!) Basic accounting and business skills will prove to be very useful, but some people prefer to learn these as they go along. You will need to also have some working knowledge of things like weather, currency exchange, passport/visa

How to Keep Records of Business Travel

It is important to keep records of your business travel so that you can claim tax deductions and receive reimbursements from your employer. Clear, accurate documentation is the key to sustaining your deductions in the face of an IRS challenge. Instructions Understand what is deductible for tax purposes. You can deduct meals, lodging, transportation and any other incidental expenses, such as cab fare, that you incurred during business trips. You can deduct only 50% of the cost of your meals. However, if your employer gives you $10 for lunch and you spend $15, you can deduct the other $5 on your taxes. Know what your employer will reimburse you. Most companies will give you something towards your business travel. For example, they may pay for your transportation and lodging, and give you an allowance for meals. Get receipts for everything you spend on your business travel. No matter how big or small the item may be you should get a receipt. It may be advantageous to have later and

How to Start a Group Travel Business

The World Tourism Organization, which tracks travel trends internationally, estimates that by 2020 the number of persons traveling will reach 1.6 billion per year. Though the world's economy has slowed recently, The World Travel & Tourism Council forecasts a revenue growth in the travel industry to be on average 3.6% per year. Individuals seeking to open a group travel business will find that all-inclusive vacations and tours will be the most desired by economically conscious travelers. Things You'll Need Knowledge of Geography Business Plan Group Travel Business Model An Accountant A Lawyer Business Insurance Instructions Business Considerations Create a business plan. This is an important step in starting a group travel business. By going through the process of creating a business plan, aspiring owners will have a clear understanding of the financial, operational and marketing details needed to create a successful group travel business. For help in creati

How to Prepare for a Business Trip

Business trips are essential to keeping a business thriving. Traveling to different locations to attend meeting conferences or even just to meet old and new clients are just some of the reasons why people embark on business trips. To have a successful business trip it is important to plan wisely. Things You'll Need Date book or journal Contact list or address book Laptop PDA Cell phone Flash drive, compact discs or floppy disks Conference and meeting venues Instructions Plan ahead. Once you have determined the dates of your business trip, it is necessary to plan ahead. Often, a business trip is done in a location farther than your local hub. Reserve your travel accommodations which can include air travel, hotel, and car reservations way in advanced. If you are planning on attending big conferences that will surely be attended by a lot of people from different parts of the globe, ensure that you do this months in advanced so that you can still get a confirmation for t

How to Plan Your Business Travel

Business travel can sap your strength and your sanity. You can't control check-in lines, flight delays or the behavior of a bored child in the seat behind you, but you can eliminate a multitude of other problems by incorporating the following ideas into your pre-trip planning. Instructions Collect information in a file folder as soon as you decide to make a trip. Make it the repository for contact names, airline tickets, hotel and car rental confirmations, maps and driving directions, and receipts. Speak personally with the key people you're traveling to meet and get a firm commitment from them. Plan only with assistants and you may end up meeting only with assistants. See 191 Schedule Appointments Efficiently. Create an itinerary and leave a copy at your home base. Factor in jet lag: Whether it's a three-hour difference between coasts or a lengthy overseas flight, the time change and trip fatigue can greatly impact your mental and physical energy. Also scout out