20 tasks, each one witnessed by the sources that watched the job — and behind every one, a prompt you can use tonight.
You’ll split your day between booking, researching, and customer service. Mornings often start by checking emails in Microsoft Outlook, confirming overnight bookings in Amadeus or Apollo, and printing tickets or e-tickets for clients.
Afternoons are for building itineraries in Colibripms (Colibri) or Excel, calling hotels or carriers to negotiate rates, and solving cancellations or refund requests. Expect some real-time crisis work — delayed flights or luggage issues — and scheduled time for training or supplier calls via Zoom.
Start with Amadeus CRS and Apollo Reservation — these are the systems you’ll use to book flights, issue e-tickets, and access carrier availability. Practice making PNRs (passenger name records) and printing or linking tickets to carriers.
Also learn Colibripms (Colibri) if your agency uses it for itineraries and client records, plus Microsoft Excel for price comparisons and Microsoft Outlook for client communication. SAP Concur is used sometimes for corporate travel expense workflows.
Yes, but carefully. Use AI for fast destination research, sample itineraries, or draft emails. Always verify facts — flight numbers, visa rules, and health requirements — in Amadeus/Apollo, official government sites, or the carrier’s website.
Never let AI issue tickets, handle refunds, or replace your negotiation with suppliers. Keep client consent and privacy in mind when you paste personal data into any tool.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) for the Travel Consultant occupation (SOC 41-3041.00), about 55,110 people are employed. The median wage is $50,160 per year; the lowest tenth earns about $34,610, and the top tenth about $76,660.
Pay varies by employer, commission structure, and whether you handle corporate accounts or high-end leisure clients. The BLS is the source for these numbers.
A travel consultant focuses on planning and booking travel for clients, using GDS systems, negotiating with suppliers, and managing tickets and refunds. You usually work remotely or from an office handling many clients’ itineraries.
A tour guide works on the ground leading groups at destinations, handling the live experience and local commentary. Agents/consultants work before and during travel; guides work mostly during travel.
Practical customer service under pressure. That means clear communication in emails and calls (Outlook and phone), fast problem-solving during cancellations or delays, and patience handling complaints.
Technical skill with a GDS (Amadeus or Apollo) and itinerary software (Colibri) is critical, but if you can calm a stressed client, find solutions fast, and keep accurate booking records, you’ll succeed.