Travel Agent Programs in New Orleans, Louisiana
Becoming a Travel Agent in New Orleans, Louisiana
Why Become a Travel Agent in New Orleans
New Orleans, Louisiana, known for its vibrant culture, historic neighborhoods, and world-renowned cuisine, is an exciting place to start a career as a travel agent. The city’s rich history and diverse population make it a hub for tourism, providing ample opportunities for travel professionals. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for travel agents in the U.S. is around $44,690 per year, with job growth projected to remain steady.
Travel Agent Training Programs in New Orleans, Louisiana
If you’re considering becoming a travel agent in New Orleans, there are several local programs and schools that can help you get started:
- Delgado Community College
- Location: Mid-City
- Program: Delgado offers a Travel and Tourism program that covers essential skills for aspiring travel agents, including ticketing, reservations, and customer service.
- Website: Delgado Community College Travel and Tourism Program
- University of New Orleans (UNO)
- Location: Lakefront
- Program: UNO provides a Hospitality and Tourism Management program with courses that include travel agency operations and tourism marketing.
- Website: UNO Hospitality and Tourism Management Program
- Tulane University School of Professional Advancement
- Location: Uptown
- Program: Tulane offers a certificate in Tourism Studies, which includes courses on travel planning, tourism management, and global travel trends.
- Website: Tulane University Tourism Studies Certificate
Typical Program Curriculum
Travel agent programs typically include a variety of courses designed to provide comprehensive training in the field. Common courses include:
- Introduction to Travel and Tourism: Overview of the travel industry, including history, trends, and key players.
- Travel Agency Operations: Training on the day-to-day operations of a travel agency, including booking systems and customer service.
- Geography for Travel Professionals: Study of global destinations, travel routes, and cultural considerations.
- Marketing and Sales: Techniques for promoting travel services and closing sales.
- Specializations: Some programs offer specializations in areas such as corporate travel, leisure travel, or cruise planning.
Programs typically last from a few months to a year, depending on the level of certification or degree pursued.
Travel Agent Employment Opportunities in New Orleans
New Orleans is home to several major travel agencies and tourism-related businesses where you might find employment opportunities:
- Vacations by Crown
- Location: Central Business District
- Description: A full-service travel agency specializing in luxury travel and custom vacation packages.
- Website: Vacations by Crown
- Travel Central
- Location: Metairie
- Description: Offers a wide range of travel services, including cruises, tours, and corporate travel planning.
- Website: Travel Central
- New Orleans & Company
- Location: Warehouse District
- Description: The official tourism marketing organization for New Orleans, offering various roles in tourism management and travel planning.
- Website: New Orleans & Company
Travel Agent Certification Options
While certification is not always required, obtaining professional certifications can enhance your career prospects. Some of the most recognized certifications include:
- ARC (Airlines Reporting Corporation) Certification: Essential for travel agents who want to issue airline tickets. ARC Website
- IATA (International Air Transport Association) Certification: Recommended for those working with international airlines. IATA Website
- CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) Certification: Ideal for agents specializing in cruise travel. CLIA Website
- The Travel Institute’s Certified Travel Associate (CTA): Demonstrates expertise in the travel industry. The Travel Institute Website
Get Started Today
Embarking on a career as a travel agent in New Orleans is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic industry. With the right education and certifications, you can become a successful travel professional. Contact a local school or organization today to start your journey. Take the first step towards a rewarding career as a travel agent in the vibrant city of New Orleans!