Family travel is important. Really important. In fact, a strong argument can be made that being an expert on the subject of traveling with kids matters more than specializing in anything else.
No offense to those who sell romance, adventure, cruising or luxury — clients in those categories certainly need travel professionals, too — but is there anything more meaningful to parents than making great memories with their children?
In light of this emotional connection, planning the perfect family getaway takes on a whole new level of importance.
Research shows that families visit more than 20 websites before booking their trips. Clearly, most parents need someone they can trust to help plan the perfect travel itinerary — someone who understands their needs, special circumstances and personal tastes. If travel agents are going to fill that role, we as an industry need to make sure they are prepared to handle the unique challenges and special needs associated with family travel.
That’s why the Family Travel Association (FTA) recently launched the industry’s first travel agent training and certification program for family travel. With what seems to be an overload of specialization courses to choose from, what makes this one so unique? For starters, just like the subject it tackles, this course is incredibly comprehensive — reflecting how complicated and diverse family travel can be. With 23 training modules and almost seven hours of video content, topics range from working with nontraditional families to how to help pregnant moms travel. After all, if you’re going to be a certified family travel specialist, you need to be prepared for all types of scenarios.
Taking the time to learn about family travel — which is growing 26 percent faster than the industry as a whole — is too important to pass up. To learn more, visit FamilyTravel.org/Become-Agent-Member.
The Details
Family Travel Association
www.familytravel.org
