What:
Nonprofit organization Tourism Cares has teamed up with Marriott International, AIG Travel and other companies to launch the new Good Travels Advisor program. The online training and certification platform will be available starting Sept. 26 at the American Society of Travel Agents conference.
Why It Matters:
Meaningful, responsible travel is in higher demand than ever before, especially among millennial, family and affluent travelers. By completing the Good Travels Advisor program, not only can agents help to enable this altruistic approach to travel, but they can also use it to deepen their own client relationships. About 60 to 90 minutes long, the multimedia course includes training on best practices for choosing volunteer experiences, helping a destination in times of need, such as after a natural disaster, and more. A portion of proceeds will benefit Tourism Cares.
Fast Facts:
- The certification includes access to informative handouts, one year of relevant newsletters and support from Tourism Cares.
- Tourism Cares will receive $22 from each program sign-up.
- Two continuing education units can be earned and will be available on the website.
- Additional sponsors include Abercrombie & Kent, Amadeus, Avanti Destinations, Collette, Cox & Kings, Micato Safaris, Monograms by Globus Family of Brands, Royal Caribbean, Rovia, TreadRight Foundation and TripAssure.
What They Are Saying:
“It’s about tuning in, getting to know the heart of the client and what passions drive them,” said Keith Waldon, founder of Departure Lounge in Austin, Texas. “All of us, no matter what we specialize in — cruises, destinations, activities — need to incorporate giving back into the recommendations we make. The fruits of this labor will be many layers of goodness. It will positively impact destinations and the people who live there. And in the process of hopefully making the world a better place to live, it’ll be good for business.”
The Details
Good Travels Advisor
www.goodtravelsadvisor.org
Tourism Cares
www.tourismcares.org