Question 1

What is a travel host agency, and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

All host agencies run differently and we strive to offer all that we can for our advisors. A travel host agency is a company that onboards independent travel advisors under their network to take advantage of discounted pricing for legalities and industry standards, mentoring and education, back office support, established business relationships and more.

Question 2

Do I need a host agency?

Accepted Answer

Technically no, however, most people in our industry not only start with a travel agency but once they find the one they love, they stay with them due to the extensive support, lesser fees, etc.

Question 3

What fees are associated with joining your host agency, and what do they cover?

Accepted Answer

We charge only a monthly fee and commission split. There is no registration fee, annual fee, or any other hidden fees. Our agency offers comprehensive support for LLCs and agents, including mentorship and guidance to foster your growth, unlimited and ongoing training to enhance your skills, and access to our lead program for a steady flow of clients. You'll benefit from group booking access to maximize your earning potential, high commissions to boost your earnings, and exclusive benefits and perks for your clients. We also provide content creation and marketing assistance, biweekly commission payouts via ACH, and Seller of Travel registration in California and Washington, with discounted Florida registration. With unlimited resources for selling travel and growing your business effectively, we ensure you have everything you need and more to succeed.

Question 4

Do I need experience?

Accepted Answer

No! We offer extensive resources for you to start and scale your travel business. A lot of our advisors are brand new to the industry and we offer training, resources, one-on-one support and mentoring, and so much more so you can feel confident. We also have marketing support.

Question 5

Do you have a lead program? How do I find clients?

Accepted Answer

We do have a lead program, and we offer not only the primary profile but an elevated profile experience. We help and advise on marketing, networking opportunities, and other ways to grow. You are a business owner, and it is ultimately your responsibility to be consistent with marketing and relationships to find and retain clients. We're here to support you and advise.

Question 6

How do you support new travel agents in getting started?

Accepted Answer

Unlike a lot of agencies, we not only allow brand new agents to the industry, but we also offer one-on-one mentoring, extensive training and resources, and help that a lot of other hosts don’t provide. We don’t just throw you in and expect you to swim. We're available for walk-throughs, mock bookings, extensive knowledge on your product and supplier preferences, and more. Unlike when others start in the industry, you won’t have to worry about what Seller of Travel laws are, what waivers you need, and other important details—we go over all of that in our Accelerator Program (included in your program membership).

Question 7

Are there any sales or performance requirements to remain with your host agency?

Accepted Answer

No, this is your business and you are not required to have a sales quota. However, some special features or events may have requirements within and outside of our agency.

Question 8

Is this a job?

Accepted Answer

No, this is a business opportunity. Your payments from our agency will be based on commissions you make from your travel sales.

Question 9

When can I expect to receive my earnings?

Accepted Answer

It is industry standard that you do not get paid your commission unless and until your client travels. The average time is 30 days after the client travels but can be up to 90 days. Once 30 days hits, and after you’ve submitted the commission request so we can match it, we will contact and work with the supplier to get the payment as soon as possible so we can send your portion to you. You will make a commission on numerous parts of your client's trip, and we also advise and have education on planning fees and additional income avenues.

Question 10

How are commissions paid and how often?

Accepted Answer

We are excited to say that we pay biweekly via ACH through our private and secure payroll portal, Wave Financial.

Question 11

What are your commission splits?

Accepted Answer

We offer a 70/30 commission split plan and an 80/20 commission split plan, with the opportunity to make up to 95% after a certain commission is earned per calendar year.

Question 12

Can I collect fees?

Accepted Answer

You can collect fees based on Seller of Travel law (don’t worry, we’ll teach you about that). We do not collect or know of your fees, and these are handled completely by you, and you retain 100% of your fees.

Question 13

Why do you need my personal information?

Accepted Answer

Your personal information is needed so we can comply properly with state and government requirements and payroll requirements.

Question 14

Do I need to file my own taxes?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you will be required to pay your taxes properly as you are an independent business owner and your commissions will not have taxes taken from them.

Question 15

What types of travel niches or specialties do you support?

Accepted Answer

All, we have over 100+ suppliers. We have a strong presence in the theme park and cruise industries among others. Our membership with CLIA and Travel Leaders Network gives cruise specialists a massive amount of extra features for not only the agent but things you can offer your clients that your competition cannot.

Question 16

What technology or tools do you provide to help manage bookings and clients?

Accepted Answer

We have options to book hotels and cruises through Travel Leader’s Network and other bookings will be made directly with the supplier via their portals or phone lines. We will help you through everything to make sure you are confident in your booking, the options for your clients, and your education on what you should offer to who and when.

Question 17

Are you part of a consortia?

Accepted Answer

Yes! We are part of Travel Leader’s Network. Travel Leaders Network is a premier global travel agency network that connects independent travel agents and agencies with a wealth of resources and opportunities. By joining Travel Leaders Network, agents gain access to exclusive supplier partnerships, cutting-edge technology, and comprehensive training programs designed to enhance their expertise and business growth. The network provides valuable support in marketing, content creation, and client engagement, helping agents to boost their productivity and profitability. With its extensive range of services and tools, Travel Leaders Network empowers travel professionals to deliver exceptional experiences to their clients while maximizing their own success in the competitive travel industry.

Question 18

What kind of things can I book?

Accepted Answer

Theme parks, ocean cruises, river cruises, hotels, packages, transportation, rail vacations, ski vacations, group travel, destination weddings and honeymoons, concert and sports tickets, and so much more.

Question 19

Are you a small or large agency?

Accepted Answer

As a small host agency, we take pride in our ability to offer personalized, one-on-one mentoring and truly connect with each of our agents. Unlike larger agencies where individual attention might be limited, our size allows us to build meaningful relationships with our agents, understanding their unique needs and goals. This hands-on approach ensures that every agent receives tailored guidance and support, fostering their growth and success. We are deeply invested in each agent’s journey, providing not just resources and training, but also genuine mentorship and encouragement. Our commitment to personalized support helps create a supportive and collaborative environment, making sure that every agent feels valued and empowered to thrive in their travel business.

Question 20

Do you use a GDS?

Accepted Answer

We don’t use a Global Distribution System (GDS) because they are becoming less common and we prefer more personalized, flexible service. By avoiding GDS, we access exclusive offers and unique experiences through direct supplier partnerships. This approach allows us to keep costs lower and provide better value to our clients, focusing on tailored solutions that meet their specific needs.

Question 21

What suppliers do  you work with and have contracts with that I can learn with and sell?

Accepted Answer

We have over 100+ suppliers and are consistently always adding more. We do vet all suppliers to make sure theyre wonderful options for your clients but as well as for you, from commissions to customer service, to learning opportunities. While we cant list them all, here are some so you can get a feel for who we offer you to work with using our credentials, contracts and relationships. Disney, Universal Parks and Vacations, Legoland, United Vacations, Disney Cruise Line, Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises, Silversea, Princess Cruise Line, Cunard, Holland America, Seabourn, Virgin Voyages, Norwegian Cruise Lines (NCL), Sixthman, MSC Cruises, Azamara Cruises, Viking Cruises, AmaWaterways, Hurtigruten Group, Star Clippers, Vax Vacation Access, Expedia TAAP, Pleasant Holidays, Xanterra Travel Collection, Bedsonline, ALG Vacations, Apple Vacations, Funjet Vacations, Travel Impressions, Blue Sky Tours, Southwest Vacations, Grand Canyon Railway and Hotel, Europe Express, Hilton Hotels and Resorts, Marriott Hotels, Best Western, Wyndham Hotels and Resorts, The Venetian Resort Las Vegas, MGM Resorts, Caesars Entertainment, The Lodge and Spa at Brush Creek, Breezes Resorts, Sandals Resorts, Beaches Resorts, AIC Hotel Group, Hard Rock Hotel, Atlantis Paradise Island, Karisma Hotels and Resorts, Nickelodeon Hotels and Resorts, Margaritaville Resorts, Azul Beach Resorts, Karisma Villas, Club Med, Couples Resorts, The Excellence Collection, The Grove Resort and Spa, Melia Hotels, Iberostar Hotels and Resorts, RIU Hotels and Resorts, Viator, Shore Excursions Group, Island Routes, Resort for a Day, Xcaret Parks and Tours, Exodus Adventure Travels, Avanti Destinations, American Airlines Vacations, Railbookers, Amtrak Vacations, Rocky Mountaineer, Alamo, Enterprise, National Car Rental, Mears Transportation, Brightline, Allianz Travel Insurance, CHUBB Travel Insurance, Ski.com, Aspen Snowmass, ScooterBug, Central Holidays, CIE, Project Expedition, Oceania Cruises, Uniworld, Windstar, Costa, Brendan Vacations, Avalon, Ponant, Explora Journeys, UnCruise Adventures, Paul Gauguin Cruises, Divi Resorts, Belmond, Abercrombie & Kent, Micato Safaris and more.

Question 22

Why do you have so many suppliers?

Accepted Answer

We have so many suppliers because unlike some hosts, we don’t want you to just make money booking a cruise; we want you to make as much as you can and made sure to facilitate that by, for example, not only booking a cruise but booking their travel insurance, transportation, flights, pre-cruise hotel, and maybe even a show while your clients are in town.

Question 23

What kind of travel benefits do I get as a travel advisor?

Accepted Answer

Travel benefits change and can vary depending on completion of programs, sales, and more. They are offered by suppliers. You also have access to familiarization trips as groups or individually. Some will require your personal CLIA card. There are benefits such as training and education on-site, free park tickets, 50% theme park tickets, discounted hotels and cruises, and so much more. These benefits are meant for educational and personal experience to make your clients' experiences better.

Question 24

Do you offer E&O insurance?

Accepted Answer

Yes, we have a policy for $500,000 and as long as you are including our information as your host in your information to your clients, you are covered. However, it is always recommended for you to have your own policy, because not all situations or clients, fees, and compliances are covered by our policy. Everyone in the agency also shares the policy. For the best protection, it is always recommended that you purchase your own in addition to ours, as we cannot guarantee ours will always be a benefit to every agent due to numerous factors. This is industry standard and all agents should always have their own policies, no matter their host agency.

Question 25

Will I need a LLC?

Accepted Answer

Although forming an LLC (Limited Liability Company) is not a legal requirement for running a travel agency, it is highly recommended due to the numerous benefits it offers. An LLC provides personal liability protection, safeguarding your personal assets from business-related debts and legal issues. It also enhances your business's credibility and professionalism, which can attract more clients and foster trust. Additionally, an LLC offers flexible management and tax options, simplifies administrative tasks like opening a business bank account, and can make securing business loans easier. Overall, while not mandatory, establishing an LLC is a smart choice that provides significant protection and operational advantages for your travel agency.

Question 26

How can I find clients?

Accepted Answer

There are so many ways to find clients, that this is an entire section in our Accelerator Program. We won’t just throw you out there and not explain best practices and how to find clients in so many different ways. Clients can be found, for example, via social media, friends and family, referrals, returning clients, networking, and more.

Question 27

What if I cant find clients?

Accepted Answer

Please reach out to us so we can discuss with you how you can expand your attempts. There should be no problem finding clients if you are being consistent. If you're struggling to find clients, don't hesitate to reach out to us for assistance. We understand that building a client base can be challenging, especially when you're just starting out. By discussing your current strategies with us, we can help identify areas for improvement and explore new approaches to expand your reach. Consistency is key in client acquisition, so we will review your efforts to ensure you're maintaining a steady and effective presence in the market. Additionally, we can provide guidance on leveraging different marketing techniques, networking opportunities, and utilizing our lead programs to enhance your visibility. Remember, finding clients is often a gradual process, and with the right support and strategies, you can build a successful and thriving client base. Remember, no matter your business, business takes time to grow and find clients. You need to persist and not get discouraged, everyone grows differently and with hard work and dedication, clients will come.

Question 28

Can I do this part time?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you can certainly work as a travel advisor part-time, but it's crucial to remain accessible to your clients and find a balance that works for you. To achieve consistent income, you'll need to manage your time effectively and ensure that you are available when clients need you. Many travel advisors begin their careers part-time and gradually build their business into a full-time venture as they grow their client base and increase their earnings. Finding this balance is essential for success, especially if you're aiming to transition from part-time to a more substantial, steady income. With proper planning and dedication, part-time work can serve as a strong foundation for a thriving travel advisory business.

Question 29

How long until I can make this full time?

Accepted Answer

Unlike other hosts, we don’t sugarcoat the reality of owning a business. It requires consistency and hard work, but the rewards are significant. Building a successful travel advisory business is a gradual process, much like starting any other venture such as a bakery, bar, or bookkeeping service. It takes time, dedication, and ongoing effort to grow and attract clients. The benefits of perseverance are substantial—achieving financial independence, enjoying a flexible work schedule, and the satisfaction of helping clients create memorable experiences. On average, it takes travel advisors 2-3 years to transition their business to a full-time income, but with commitment and persistence, the potential for success is well worth the effort.

Question 30

Do you offer a CRM?

Accepted Answer

We don’t offer a CRM because each travel advisor has unique needs and preferences when it comes to managing their client relationships. By not providing a one-size-fits-all CRM solution, we allow our members the flexibility to choose a system that best fits their individual business requirements and workflow. This approach not only ensures that you can select a CRM that aligns with your specific needs but also helps keep our membership costs lower. By giving you the freedom to pick a CRM that suits you, we avoid the added expense of a standardized system and provide a more personalized and cost-effective solution for your business.

Question 31

Do you offer a website?

Accepted Answer

We don’t provide a standard website because each travel advisor has distinct preferences and requirements for their online presence. Allowing our members to choose their own website platform ensures that you can select one that aligns perfectly with your individual brand and business goals. This approach also helps keep our membership fees lower, as we avoid the costs associated with offering a one-size-fits-all website solution. By giving you the flexibility to design a website that truly represents your unique style and needs, we support a more customized and cost-effective solution for your business.

Question 32

Are you a MLM?

Accepted Answer

We want to clarify that we are not a Multi-Level Marketing (MLM) organization. As a privately owned family business, our focus is solely on travel and providing exceptional support and education to our members. We do not operate with teams or require recruiting, as our commitment lies in enhancing your expertise and success through extensive training and resources. Our goal is to help you excel in the travel industry with top-notch education and personalized support, rather than through recruitment or downlines. We prioritize your growth and success based on your skills and dedication, not on building a network.

Question 33

Why should I choose Dazzle Travel Agency  as my host?

Accepted Answer

Choosing Dazzle Travel Agency over other host agencies comes with a host of compelling benefits. As a small, privately owned family business, we provide personalized support and one-on-one mentorship that larger agencies can't match. We focus solely on travel, not on recruitment or MLM structures, ensuring our attention is fully dedicated to your success. Our commission splits are among the highest in the industry, ranging from 70% to 95%, and we offer a wealth of exclusive benefits, including discounted travel and high-quality marketing support. We provide comprehensive, tailored training and resources to help you excel, and our lead program connects you with clients, enhancing your potential for success. Unlike other hosts, we don’t use a GDS or mandate specific tools, allowing us to keep membership costs lower and offer flexibility. With us, you’ll experience hands-on support, a commitment to your growth, and the opportunity to truly thrive in the travel industry.

Wondering if we're the perfect host agency for you? Dive into our transparent FAQ to find out!