The difference between a travel agent and a tour operator

Obviously there is a lot of overlap between the two roles, but basically, a tour operator buys the separate elements of transport, accommodation, and other services, and combines them into a package. A travel agent sells this product and other services to the public, and provides a convenient location, such as a shop or office for the purchase of travel. A tour operator will have to do things like decide what tours and holidays to organize – it might be inclusive tours, or independent holidays. They'll probably investigate and research new markets to find out what people actually want.

Then, when they're putting together a tour, they'll have to negotiate with the various airline companies and hotels and other principals in order to get good bulk purchase deals. Once the tours are being sold, the tour operator deals more directly with the agent in accepting booking.

The travel agent, on the other hand, is in direct contact with the customer, advising on resorts, carriers, and travel facilities in general, helping to plan itineraries for customers, arranging corporate travel, arranging car hire or selling insurance, issuing tickets and vouchers, confirming reservations.

Questions:

1. Is there any difference between tour operator's and travel agent's duties?

2. Which of the above jobs seems most attractive to you? Why?

3. What are the tour operator's duties?

4. What are the travel agent's duties?

5. What is the difference between the two roles?

6. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each job?

7. Summarize the text.

1. Careers in Travel and Tourism

Part I

According to the World Travel and Tourism council (WTTC), the industry “already is responsible for more than 10 per cent of global employment“ in seven major areas:

· Airlines/transport

· Conferences and conventions

· Arts and culture

· Hotels, food and beverage

· Ecotourism

· Outdoor recreation

· Ancillary services associated with tourism

On the corporate side, according to a piece on the industry trends online, the travel and tourism industry is “in consolidation mode“. This means that smaller companies are merging or being acquired by the big players like American Express, Marriott and Carlson Wagon-lit. So it might make sense to begin your career with one of the larger corporations, where you can gain exposure to many facets of the business while having relative job security.

An obvious trend is the increase in Internet service. The Web has created new and different career options for those interested in travel careers. Individuals can work for sites like Cheap Tickets.com, Orbitz and Travelocity.com.

In addition, journalists may see more travel writing opportunities available in the traditional magazines like Conde Nast Traveller and National Geographic Traveller, as well as online publications.