The Travel Institute has launched two new educational programs designed to help travel advisors strengthen their expertise in two high-demand areas: air travel and Japan.
The organization’s new Air Travel Immersion program provides advisors with a broader understanding of airfare complexity, while the Tokyo Destination Specialist course focuses on helping advisors create more personalized Japan itineraries and experiences.
Building Air Travel Expertise
Developed in response to advisor requests, the Air Travel Immersion program focuses on the broader concepts advisors need to make informed booking decisions, from client qualification and itinerary design to pricing, ticketing, disruptions and risk management.
“The missed opportunity for many advisors is in treating air as a simple transaction instead of a valuable advisory service,” emphasized Guida Botelho, VP for The Travel Institute, in a press statement. “Too many advisors focus on finding the lowest fare rather than educating clients, designing better itineraries, managing risk, and facilitating a better experience.”
The live, expert-led program runs Sept. 28-Oct. 1 and includes Q&A sessions that will also be recorded. Topics include air ticket scams, strategic itinerary design, pricing and ticketing, and disruption management.
Going Beyond the Tokyo Guidebook
Meanwhile, the Tokyo Destination Specialist course aims to help advisors capitalize on rising demand for Japan by developing deeper destination knowledge and cultural context.
“Tokyo is a truly fascinating, dynamic city where centuries-old temples stand alongside modern-day skyscrapers,” shared Stacey Cabell, Senior Learning and Development Manager for The Travel Institute, in a press statement. “This course gives advisors the confidence and destination knowledge to move beyond the guidebook, create more personalized itineraries, and deliver the kind of experiences clients remember long after they return home.”
The online course covers Tokyo’s neighborhoods, attractions and day-trip options, along with Japanese customs and etiquette, seasonal travel, transportation, visa requirements and other practical information. Advisors can also learn how to match accommodations, dining and experiences to client interests and budgets.
Pricing & More Info
Air Travel Immersion costs $155 for students registering in August and $175 in September. Completing the program earns a Certificate of Completion and five CEUs for certified alumni.
The Tokyo course is $89, or free for Education Hub subscribers; advisors who complete the exam and experiential checklist can earn the Certified Tokyo Travel Specialist designation and 10 CEUs.
For more information, visit thetravelinstitute.com.
