Host Agency

well I looked into net travel ease and I am not impressed. First of all I do not see a booking engine or any other support that they would give you. You are given a sales pitch to join and became a travel agent overnight. They give you a bunch of info through a book for $47 and you get some extras go with it. Wait there's more..... You pay thru paypal and all documents say you have to have paypal. Interesting. When I went to see if they had a phone number to ask questions they don't have a number listed. Email is bogus too. So if you are looking at net travel ease I would not do this. Just wanted to tell you guys about this. I hope I don't step on anybody's toes. If I do please, I would like to hear from you.

marcumtravel in Lansing, Illinois said: Try Outside Agents. They have 4,000+ agents, pay 80% commission, no start up fee's or monthly fee's, excellent support and training, and more. They're website is www.outsideagents.com . If you have any questions, you can talk to the owners, or email me. Check them out.

are you still with Outside Agents?
how helpful are they in booking group cruises or land groups?
are you able to book directly with the vendor or do you have to go thru someone in the OUtside Agent OFfice?
what kind of support do they provide?
how often do they pay the commision check?
thank you

I checked them out the other day. I talked with the owners. He said he would be supported. They are coming out with a new software that will be useful in booking. they do have a booking site that is used by the agents or you can call the vendors directly. Lots of training in the way of webinars. He did suggest that I get training in destinations. the computer part will come in time. He did suggest 3 schools. All the people I called except net travel ease called me back. Yes the owners did call me back on the outside but the question I have is do they really do deliver on servicing the agents. It is absolutely free except the E&O. check them out. Don't rely on anybody. I learned alot that I can't really say here but my instincts say I should go with Outside Agents.

I am also thinking about signing up with Cruises Inc ... can anyone give me some idea of the monthly operating costs with home based cruise sales with them?

Thank you for the reply.
how much is the E&O? do you purchase it from them?
do you know if one can do group bookings with OutsideAgents?

f22mom in Oceanside, California said: I checked them out the other day. I talked with the owners. He said he would be supported. They are coming out with a new software that will be useful in booking. they do have a booking site that is used by the agents or you can call the vendors directly. Lots of training in the way of webinars. He did suggest that I get training in destinations. the computer part will come in time. He did suggest 3 schools. All the people I called except net travel ease called me back. Yes the owners did call me back on the outside but the question I have is do they really do deliver on servicing the agents.

Usually if you are working for a host agency E&O should be included in your start up fee. But if not then the minimum is around $150.00 a year. If you live in certain states (FL, CA, WA and others maybe) you will also have to pay a Seller of Travel fee. In my state that is $50.00 a year.

As far as monthly operating cost go, that will be different for everyone. It all depends on your monthly fee from your host agency, how much advertising you plan on doing, home office expenses and so on. Right now including my monthly fee from my franchise I pay right around $100.00 a month. (This is for phone, fax, printing costs and so on). I haven't advertised yet.

Your profit is strictly up to you as a business person. Selling travel is not easy. And profit doesn't come fast. You have to have a client base to make money starting out. These people need to know and trust you. Remember if you are a home based agent you are mostly on your own. There are thousands just like you trying to sell and compete with the big guys.

Make sure the company you choose has big buying power and blocks a lot of group space. This is how you will be able to compete with the online giants. Stick with a known name when first starting out. They will have a large buying power. I was with Expedia CruiseShipCenters for 2 years. They were good but everyone confused us with Expdia.com. They are not Expedia.com and we competed with Expedia and I lost out quite a few times. After awhile I found the name Expedia to be a problem.

Just know that getting into the travel business is not for those who want to "get rich quick". This is a job/passion that requires a lot of hard work and tons of education (mostly through the company you choose with and vendors). If you are an independent contractor or a franchise owner you will live, breath, and sleep your business. Find a niche. Find something or someplace you are passionate about, learn every aspect and then sell it.

Just my take. Hope this helps.

Thank you for the reply.
how much is the E&O? do you purchase it from them?

do you know if one can do group bookings with OutsideAgents?

E&O is about $20 a month and you purchase from them. They encourage group bookings. Give them call they are happy to call you and they don't do any pressure.

Has anyone worked with AARC Hosting Agency? I just grad from school in travel and tourism and want to go to work as a home base travel agent...Any input would be great..
pickletravel@gmail.com

I'm thinking about signing on with Cruises, Inc........any input ...good or bad????? Anyone know what sort of fees are involved once you've completed their course?

f22mom in Oceanside, California said: well I looked into net travel ease and I am not impressed. First of all I do not see a booking engine or any other support that they would give you. You are given a sales pitch to join and became a travel agent overnight. They give you a bunch of info through a book for $47 and you get some extras go with it. Wait there's more..... You pay thru paypal and all documents say you have to have paypal. Interesting. When I went to see if they had a phone number to ask questions they don't have a number listed. Email is bogus too. So if you are looking at net travel ease I would not do this. Just wanted to tell you guys about this. I hope I don't step on anybody's toes. If I do please, I would like to hear from you.

They Pay your commission payment with paypal and that is why they want you to have a paypal account! It's so cool cause they pay as soon as commission comes in. And the book is just for information and has nothing to do with their programs, not sure what email you used try this one for information sales@nettravelease.com They are really helpful and care about agents.

Nrfholley in Norfolk, Virginia said: I'm looking to get a home based travel agency started. I just don't know where to start. I have had several suggestions; however after searching the web there are so many options. Can somebody help me? Looking for low start up fees, low monthly fees, and I want to be certified. Please send and info to nrfholley@aol.com ASAP! Thank you.....

You could check Net Travel Ease they are extreamly helpful to running a home based travel business, they have low start up, no monthly fees and offer tons of traning and support, check them out!

f22mom in Oceanside, California said: well I looked into net travel ease and I am not impressed. First of all I do not see a booking engine or any other support that they would give you. You are given a sales pitch to join and became a travel agent overnight. They give you a bunch of info through a book for $47 and you get some extras go with it. Wait there's more..... You pay thru paypal and all documents say you have to have paypal. Interesting. When I went to see if they had a phone number to ask questions they don't have a number listed. Email is bogus too. So if you are looking at net travel ease I would not do this. Just wanted to tell you guys about this. I hope I don't step on anybody's toes. If I do please, I would like to hear from you.

Wow I'm not sure where you looked or checked but you did not get the right info, I singed up with them and they have 3 booking engins for agents to choose from. Maybe you should check again or got to the wrong agency, they are my host agency and they give me amaizing support, freedome to build my business they way I want and lots of education information I can access when I want.

I need help deciding on AARC or Net Travel Ease. I have been reading through the thread and see a smiliar question but it never see an exact break down of opinion of why to pick one over the other. AARC has a 50.00 a month fee and NTE seems to have a flat one-time fee. Please be straight forward on your pros and cons of each host agency please. I have NO background in travel and will start this as P/T on the side just for freinds and family until I decide to go F/T. Thanks
Feel free to contact me directly at homebuz2003@aol.com

Ii'm currently enrolled in T&T degree program and am at the part where I choose a CRS to work with ....after asking around I'm thinking Sabre... and also looking into passibly setting up under a host. In reading the manuals, it states that only after our first $5000.00 in sales are you able to register under ASTA. If we work for a host, how are we accumulating towards that first $5000.00. Isn't the revenue going to the host? And how would we make our commissions? Any help in this would be greatly appreciated.

Anne-Marie in Avon, Massachusetts said: Ii'm currently enrolled in T&T degree program and am at the part where I choose a CRS to work with ....after asking around I'm thinking Sabre... and also looking into passibly setting up under a host. In reading the manuals, it states that only after our first $5000.00 in sales are you able to register under ASTA. If we work for a host, how are we accumulating towards that first $5000.00. Isn't the revenue going to the host? And how would we make our commissions? Any help in this would be greatly appreciated.

The host would send your name into IATAN once you have earned $5000 in commission. Commissions are earned on your sales.

[Quote] The host would send your name into IATAN once you have earned $5000 in commission. Commissions are earned on your sales.

Reply - View Comments
Walt Lee in Monticello, Minnesota[Quote]

Thank you Walt...Did you mean $5000.00 in sales? The Commmission is my pay. I'm a little confused. Say I book a Cruise for $4000.00 and the 10% is $400.00...how does that work. Do we split commission, do I pay Host fees. That's really what I was getting at. If this duplicates...my system is acting funny. Thank you in advance.

Anne-Marie in Avon, Massachusetts said: [Quote] The host would send your name into IATAN once you have earned $5000 in commission. Commissions are earned on your sales.

Reply - View Comments
Walt Lee in Monticello, Minnesota[Quote]

Thank you Walt...Did you mean $5000.00 in sales? The Commmission is my pay. I'm a little confused. Say I book a Cruise for $4000.00 and the 10% is $400.00...how does that work. Do we split commission, do I pay Host fees. That's really what I was getting at. If this duplicates...my system is acting funny. Thank you in advance.

Anne then you will have to earn $4600 more to earn your IATAN card. Each host agency will have it's own program as far as fees and split. We go 70-100%, free to $199.99, so as you can see there are some of options. There are also host agencies that have other fees.

Walt Lee in Monticello, Minnesota said: Anne then you will have to earn $4600 more to earn your IATAN card. Each host agency will have it's own program as far as fees and split. We go 70-100%, free to $199.99, so as you can see there are some of options. There are also host agencies that have other fees.

So it goes by the amount of commission you make not the amount of sales you make to get into IATAN? Wow...I thought it would make more sense going by sales..but I suppose in the end it washes out. So basically I have to sell 50,000.00 in "sales" before making it into IATAN. Got it! Ok now to investigate hosts. Anyone have an suggestions...I don't want to end up in a Pyramid or Bonzi...:) Any help will be appreciated.

Anne-Marie check out www.tqagents.com and www.path4hosts.com/How_to_choose_a_host_agency.asp is a good site also

I have an established agency in Howell, NJ, and am always looking for home-based outside agents. No fees- I pay your commision as soon as it comes in. Give me a call www.samsanthonytravel.com

I've got about 15 to 18 years of travel experience under my belt, but I decided to move towards a different career in '98. In the recent past I've been seriously thinking of going back into the travel industry by opening a home-based agency under the auspices of a hos agency. I've researched a few and, so far, had narrowed it down to "America's Host Agency" (a.k.a. Coral Sands Travel). After beginning to set things up in preparation to sign up, I learn that they merged with ExpediaCSC. Although this is to be taken as something positive, I still have my reservations as both companies seem markedly different at times. Also, the initial fees went up considerably and now there's also a monthly fee to contend with. I would like to start reviewing my options again with other host agencies to see how they compare and if they would be a better match for me. Although I'm planning to specialize in cruises I also plan to specialize in Religious/Spiritual Travel and Tours since I used to do this type of group travel for many years. Would anybody be able to offer some advice on these matters? Also, if there are any agents out there currently affiliated with ExpediaCSC, could you provide me some input as to your recent experience with the company? I would be very grateful.

Rene in Chicago, Illinois said: I've got about 15 to 18 years of travel experience under my belt, but I decided to move towards a different career in '98. In the recent past I've been seriously thinking of going back into the travel industry by opening a home-based agency under the auspices of a hos agency. I've researched a few and, so far, had narrowed it down to "America's Host Agency" (a.k.a. Coral Sands Travel). After beginning to set things up in preparation to sign up, I learn that they merged with ExpediaCSC. Although this is to be taken as something positive, I still have my reservations as both companies seem markedly different at times. Also, the initial fees went up considerably and now there's also a monthly fee to contend with. I would like to start reviewing my options again with other host agencies to see how they compare and if they would be a better match for me. Although I'm planning to specialize in cruises I also plan to specialize in Religious/Spiritual Travel and Tours since I used to do this type of group travel for many years. Would anybody be able to offer some advice on these matters? Also, if there are any agents out there currently affiliated with ExpediaCSC, could you provide me some input as to your recent experience with the company? I would be very grateful.

I would go with Net Travel Ease, they let you run your business they way you need and want to plus they have awesome support, and everything you need.

Hi Rene,

If you haven't already, you should look into www.tqagents.com

They offer suppliers who specialize in the areas you mentioned!

Paul in Washington, District of Columbia said: Agreed, unless you are into pyramid schemes, stay clear. Check out www.pathonline.travel for quality reputable agency hosts.

I know this is a very old post, but i thought i would at least correct it for anyone looking the site is path4hosts.com/ PATH stands for Professional Association of Travel Hosts, Inc. Is a non-profit, all-encompassing, non-partisan corporation, with a membership comprised of U.S. Host Agencies.

I have looked at Expedia, Cruise Planners and Cruise Inc. I am more confused than ever. Expedia is way more expensive, but their name and reputation is far more exclusive. Expedia is a bonafide franchise whereas Cruise Onc., Cruise Planners and Cruise Holidays are host agencies. Can anyone explain the difference and what is a better option. I went to travel school, but waited 6 years to begin as an agent.

catgirl398 in Colorado Springs, Colorado said: I have also been looking at Expedia CSC but haven't been able to get any agents to email me back about their experience. Anyone out there that could post?

I spoke to a gentleman who had been with Expedia for several years and reported that he has been very happy. Expedia provides you with a list of names of other franchisees. I am about to join Expedia because of Cruisedesk which I think will be an excellent software program. The fees are high but I believe their suppot and training is worth it. If you are new to the business; this is the way to go. Expedia brand is well worth the 10K.

Country Gal in Louisburg, North Carolina said: I have looked at Expedia, Cruise Planners and Cruise Inc. I am more confused than ever. Expedia is way more expensive, but their name and reputation is far more exclusive. Expedia is a bonafide franchise whereas Cruise Onc., Cruise Planners and Cruise Holidays are host agencies. Can anyone explain the difference and what is a better option. I went to travel school, but waited 6 years to begin as an agent.

I would also like to know what the difference(s) are between host agencies and franchises......

Any feedback on the host agency OASIS, especially on their new agent training program (F.A.S.T.) for $399?

www.oasisagent.com/

I was wondering if you had any recommendations for Hosts that have large buying power and access to good pricing in the cruise industry?

I highly recommend Cruise Planners/American Express. I've been with them for about 2 years and take advantage of the buying power, high commissions, group space and of course the American Express name behind them!

Hello, I am interested in selling cruises, but spa vacations as well. Wii any of these companies let you sell other types of vacations?

Country Gal in Louisburg, North Carolina said: Hello, I am interested in selling cruises, but spa vacations as well. Wii any of these companies let you sell other types of vacations?

Hi, my hoast agency does let you sell any thing you like, spa vacations, golf, cruises what ever! Its awesome!!

pickletravel in Ripley, Mississippi said: Has anyone worked with AARC Hosting Agency? I just grad from school in travel and tourism and want to go to work as a home base travel agent...Any input would be great..
pickletravel@gmail.com

I just recently left AARC after about 5 months. I was comfortable with them initially, I felt the offered alot of webinars and brochures and print information for clients. My issue came when I made my first booking. I called to recieve instructions on reporting my booking and was told to fax the info. once faxed never recieved another response, Then emailed the info, still no response. I phoned and was told i would get a return call. Did not. I eventually cancelled the paypal for the monthly fee by the next day... LOW AND BEHOLD, i get a call! Not in reference to my commission but the paypal! AARC told me to contact the vendor. Ive contacted the vendors and was told they were paid in April. Make a long story short, I am still waiting for commission (or even acknowledgment) for a vacation that was taken in March.

thank you for sharing that! I was looking at them and for sure they were just crossed off my list. Can you tell me what host did you join after them?

bjschild in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania said: I just recently left AARC after about 5 months. I was comfortable with them initially, I felt the offered alot of webinars and brochures and print information for clients. My issue came when I made my first booking. I called to recieve instructions on reporting my booking and was told to fax the info. once faxed never recieved another response, Then emailed the info, still no response. I phoned and was told i would get a return call. Did not. I eventually cancelled the paypal for the monthly fee by the next day... LOW AND BEHOLD, i get a call! Not in reference to my commission but the paypal! AARC told me to contact the vendor. Ive contacted the vendors and was told they were paid in April. Make a long story short, I am still waiting for commission (or even acknowledgment) for a vacation that was taken in March.

Just wanted to let everyone know that a resource you may want to check into if you're looking for a host is my website, Host Agency Reviews (www.hostagencyreviews.com).

It has a list of over 80 host agencies and reviews from agents about their services. There are also articles to help you start, as well as grow, your agency.

Feel free to ask any questions on our FB page: www.facebook.com/hostagencyreviews

Thanks Steph, thats usefull to know.

I just bought a cruiseone franchise and try to grow the business through new associates and marketing. (If anyone is interested in a associate deal, shoot me an email)

Take care

Victor

I am looking for a host agency that I can work with. I have no experience with being an agent. I do travel alot and around the world. Can someone help me find an agency I can use. I dont have much startup money. I was looking at AARC and TPI but dont know which to go with. I am looking to primarily book all inclusive vacations and domestic/international airline tickets. please email me: harivaden.mehta@gmail.com

Thanks,
Hari Mehta

Can someone please suggest a host agency who accepts agents from outside the US and Canada? Thank you very much for your answers!

Anyone have any experience with Oasis Agent?

Check out Magical Moments Vacations

Here's a few reviews you may find helpful: hostagencyreviews.com/host-agency-list/oasis/