How to be a group leader and travel free
If you are passionate about traveling and can’t imagine yourself answering questions about destinations you would prefer to visit, then becoming a Group Leader may be the best option.
Cruise line companies cater to group sales to fill up cabins. A majority of major cruise companies offer a free cruise to Group Leaders who sell 8 cabins or more than 15 paying passengers. Some companies require group leaders to pay taxes, fees, and upgrades. Group leaders who are smart will often book their own cabins on an Interior cruise. This ensures that no one in the group is able to book a lower-priced cabin.
The Group Leader can either sell or give away his/her cruise. This is why the group leader’s chance is so popular.
Experienced tour conductors often have multiple marketing methods for their group travel events or cruises. It is common to find established groups who are willing to travel together and save money. Special interest travel is another option.
You have many options for getting started as a Group Leader or Travel Guide. You can draw on your own personal experiences as a junkie to increase your confidence and sales.
You can enroll in one or two classes at your local junior college if you don’t have much travel experience. Online courses are also available, and they are very affordable. There are many ways to learn about the different aspects of travel, which is why it is worth billions of dollars.
My path was to take a UC Berkeley Extension (Berkeley Ca) class on Group Travel. My instructor was one the most accomplished group travel professionals in the nation at the time. Next, I was able to volunteer as a leader for a social group that was going to the annual Vale ski summit.
To be a good leader, you don’t need to spend a lot of money. It is important to learn as much about the destination and travel involved as possible.
Once you have a good understanding of the type and amount of group travel that you are offering, you can start looking for a host agency. Host agencies are licensed and bonded travel agencies that allow travel agents and outside agents to book travel under their company name. The commission split is because the host agency, which is the legal entity that allows you to book travel on behalf of your clients, is charged a portion. Many host agencies charge an annual fee and a fee. The fees for joining a Hosting Agency range from zero to $500.