Travel Agency Management

History and growth of travel agency business, emergence of Thomas Cook and American Express, Emergence of Travel Intermediaries, Indian travel agents and tour operators - an overview.

Definition of travel agent and tour operator, differentiation, interrelationship of TA/TO and principles of present business trends and future prospects, problems and issues. How to set up Travel agency / Tour operation business

1. Market research, sources of funding
2. Comparative   study   of  various   types   of  organization   proprietorship,

         partnership

3. Govt. rules for getting approval
4. IATA rules, regulation for accreditation
5. Documentation

Functions of a Travel Agency:Understanding the functions of a travel agency -travel information and counseling to the tourists, Itinerary preparation, reservation, ticketing, preparation and marketing of Tour packages, handling business/corporate clients including conference and conventions. Sources of income: Commission, Service Charges, Incentives.

Public and Private sector in Travel Agency Business and Tour Operation Business:Organizational Structure and various Departments of a Travel Agency. Case study of SITA, Cox & Kings and Thomas Cook.

The Indian Travel Agents and Tour Operators - an overview. National Trade Associations: IATO and TAAI. Concept of e-travel portals and their functions.