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The Specialty Travel Agents Association (STAA) announces the launch of its new online Travel Planner that connects travelers with travel agents who specialize in specific destinationsand niche travel markets worldwide. Many travelers need good alternatives to spending countless hours researching complex itineraries and travel options. STAA gives consumers a chance to utilize and place their confidence in specialty travel agents who can easily provide in depth destination knowledge and expertise that can enhance their overall travel experience.
STAA‘s Travel Planner will allow consumers to select specialty agent(s) that best meet their travel needs based on their online agent profile. The agent’s profile showcases their specializations, certifications, unique qualifications and any travel specials they may have available. Once a consumer selects an agent(s), they will fill out the travel planning request form and submit it directly to them. Agent(s) will then contact the prospective traveler with any additional information that can assist them in selecting the agent that best suits their travel planning needs. The consumer always has the final say in which travel specialist they wish to utilize, and can correspond with them directly through the STAA website, email or by phone.
There is a growing demand by consumers for travel specialists and creating a network of specialty agents is the best way to meet that demand. STAA President, Sandy McDowell said “We have found that many agents are including specialization as a way to grow their business and enhance their professionalism. The experience that a specialist can provide to travelers is beyond compare. These agents have a passion for what they do and are eager to share that passion and expertise with consumers.” McDowell added “The travel planner offers agent members a solution to paid lead based services and is included with an STAA membership. We like the idea of the consumer selecting the agent that is right for them and it encourages agents to stay on top of their specialization.”
STAA staff will be at the New York Times Travel Show, February 26 – 29, 2010 promoting specialty travel to both agents and consumers. STAA is inviting agents to learn more about the organization and how they can turn an association membership into an affordable and efficient way to market their expertise. Consumers will have the opportunity to learn more about the benefits of using a specialty travel agent and how they can use the new online Travel Planner to connect with STAA agent members.
Vicky is the co-founder of TravelDailyNews Media Network where she is the Editor-in Chief. She is also responsible for the daily operation and the financial policy. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Tourism Business Administration from the Technical University of Athens and a Master in Business Administration (MBA) from the University of Wales. She has many years of both academic and industrial experience within the travel industry. She has written/edited numerous articles in various tourism magazines.
