Travel & Tourism Professional

What is a Travel & Tourism Professional?

A Travel & Tourism Professional is someone who works in the travel and tourism industry, managing, organizing, and promoting travel experiences. Their roles can include being a travel agent, tour guide, event planner, or working in areas such as hotel management, customer service, or transportation. They ensure the smooth functioning of travel operations and provide clients with information and services related to their trips.

Education Eligibility

To pursue a career in travel and tourism, the general education eligibility is:

  • Minimum Requirement: 10+2 (High School) education from a recognized board.
  • Degree/Diploma: After high school, one can pursue a Bachelor’s degree in Travel and Tourism, Hotel Management, or related fields. Many institutions also offer diploma courses.
    • Bachelor’s Degree: B.A. in Travel & Tourism, B.B.A. in Tourism Management, etc.
    • Post-Graduate Degree: M.A. or M.B.A. in Tourism Management.

Handicapped Eligibility

In India and many other countries, travel and tourism professionals with disabilities are eligible to apply for education programs and job opportunities, as long as they meet the general entry criteria. Many universities and colleges also provide special accommodations for students with disabilities.

Admission Process

Admission to travel and tourism programs generally involves:

  • Application: Submitting an application form with necessary documents (academic records, identification, etc.).
  • Entrance Exam: Some institutes require entrance exams (see below).
  • Personal Interview: A few institutes may conduct an interview.
  • Merit-Based Admission: Based on academic performance, some colleges admit students directly.

Entrance Exam

Some universities or institutes may have an entrance exam for admission into travel and tourism courses. These exams assess knowledge in subjects like:

  • General knowledge
  • English proficiency
  • Logical reasoning
  • Tourism-related topics

For example, institutions like the Indian Institute of Tourism & Travel Management (IITTM) or National Institute of Tourism & Hospitality Management (NITHM) may require entrance exams for admission.

Colleges and Universities

Several institutes offer education in the field of travel and tourism. Some prominent institutions include:

  • Indian Institute of Tourism & Travel Management (IITTM) (India)
  • National Institute of Tourism and Hospitality Management (NITHM) (India)
  • University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) (USA)
  • Cornell University School of Hotel Administration (USA)
  • Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) (India)

Scholarships

Many institutions offer scholarships for students pursuing travel and tourism programs. These may include:

  • Government Scholarships: Government schemes for students from economically weaker backgrounds or those belonging to reserved categories (e.g., SC/ST/OBC in India).
  • Merit-Based Scholarships: Based on academic performance or entrance exam scores.
  • Private Scholarships: Offered by organizations or travel companies.

In Travel & Tourism Professional Time and Expenses

  • Work Hours: Travel and tourism professionals may work irregular hours, especially when dealing with international clients or during peak seasons. Expect a mix of office hours and travel.
  • Expenses: Professionals may incur costs for business travel, client meetings, or business-related events. Many companies offer reimbursement for work-related expenses.

Average Income

  • Entry-Level: Starting salaries for travel agents or tourism professionals can range from $20,000 to $30,000 annually depending on the region and role.
  • Experienced Professionals: For senior roles, like tourism managers, salaries can range from $50,000 to $70,000 or more annually.
  • Top Professionals: Senior managers or directors in large tourism companies can earn upwards of $100,000 annually.

Growth in Career

The career in travel and tourism is expanding, especially with the rise of online travel services, tourism marketing, and increased global travel. Growth is evident in sectors like:

  • Tourism Management
  • Sustainable Travel
  • Travel Technology
  • Event Planning Professionals with the right skills and experience can grow into managerial, director-level, or even entrepreneurial roles.

Specialists

Some common specializations within travel and tourism include:

  • Tour Operator: Organizes trips for travelers.
  • Travel Consultant: Advises clients on travel options.
  • Event Planning: Specializing in organizing travel for corporate or personal events.
  • Tourism Marketing: Focuses on promoting destinations, hotels, or tourism businesses.
  • Sustainable Tourism Specialist: Focuses on environmentally responsible travel.

Scope in Government and Private

  • Government Sector: There are many opportunities in tourism departments, cultural agencies, and national tourism boards. Government-run tourism offices, ministries, and regulatory bodies often hire tourism professionals.
  • Private Sector: The private sector includes travel agencies, hotels, airlines, tour operators, and more. Many travel agencies and international organizations in the private sector also offer ample job opportunities.

Special Eligibility for People with Disabilities

Certain institutions and companies offer special assistance and accommodations for individuals with disabilities. Some scholarships, aids, or reservation schemes may also be available for differently-abled candidates in travel and tourism courses.

What Work Will I Have to Do at My Workplace?

Your job as a travel and tourism professional will depend on your specific role. Common tasks include:

  • Customer Service: Assisting clients with travel bookings, itineraries, and travel advice.
  • Tour Planning: Organizing travel packages, events, or tours.
  • Travel Management: Handling bookings, flight tickets, hotel reservations, and transport.
  • Marketing & Promotion: Promoting travel destinations, packages, or services through advertising.
  • Event Coordination: Organizing travel arrangements for events like conferences, corporate meetings, or exhibitions.

As a travel and tourism professional, you will work directly with clients, vendors, and suppliers, ensuring all aspects of travel are well-coordinated and executed.