About 700 years ago, much before e-ticketing and computer reservation systems, Marco Polo set out on a mission. This mission took him to the farthest reaches of known civilization. What prompted this epic adventure can only be guessed, but I'm sure it involved a fascination with the world and its people. When Marco Polo returned to his home, he shared his newfound knowledge and inspired others to follow in his footsteps. And so were the beginnings of history's greatest familiarization trip; one of the many perks of being a travel consultant today.

What Does a Travel Consultant Do?
In order to travel, one needs knowledge. This knowledge includes how to get there, what to do there, how to get back and how to make the entire process as enjoyable as possible. Travellers depend on consultants to sort through the vast amounts of information. Travel consultants offer advice on destinations and make arrangements for transportation, accommodation, car rentals, tours and numerous other activities. They are also the primary source of bookings for most major cruise lines, resorts and specialty travel groups. Travel consultants must be able to advise travellers about their destinations, such as the weather conditions, local customs, attractions and exhibitions. For those travelling internationally, consultants also provide information on global regulations, required documents, travel advisories and currency exchange rates. In the event of changes in itinerary during a trip, travel consultants intercede on the traveller's behalf to make alternate booking arrangements.

Tools of a Travel Consultant
Travel consultants spend most of their time on the telephone or computer conferring with clients, completing paperwork, contacting suppliers and promoting tours. Gathering information about itineraries and updating travel documents is also a necessary task. Consultants use a variety of published and computer-based sources for information on journey times, fares, accommodation and available discounts. They may also visit and eventually be invited to hotels, resorts and restaurants to evaluate the comfort, cleanliness and quality of the establishments so that they can base their recommendations on firsthand experiences. Travel consultants who work for tour operators may help develop, arrange and sell the company's own tours and travel services. They promote these services using telemarketing, direct mail, advertising displays and the internet. Consultants also often make group presentations to promote destinations and itineraries. Although consultants are facing increasing competition from travel and airline websites offering low-cost fares, many travellers still prefer using consultants who can provide customized assistance and support for complex itineraries. To attract these travellers, many consultants specialize in specific interests, regions or particular demographic groups.

Profile of a Travel Consultant
Travel consultants must be well-organized, accurate and meticulous in order to compile information from various sources and organize their clients' travel itineraries. Consultants must also be professional and courteous when dealing with travel representatives and clients. Other desirable qualifications include strong communication skills and sales abilities.Although many travel agencies prefer applicants who have a college degree and business or travel experience, much of the training is provided on the job - a significant part of which consists of instruction in reservation systems. Personal travel experience is an advantage because comprehensive knowledge about a destination often helps influence a client's travel plans. Finance and managerial experience is becoming increasingly important because consultants, especially those who are self-employed, need to know how to run a business profitably and effectively. As the internet has become an important tool for making travel arrangements, many travel agencies now use websites to provide their services to clients. Advanced computer systems and telecommunications networks allow a growing number of travel consultants to work from home. Most importantly, a passion for travelling and the knowledge to advise people about destinations are essential characteristics for a travel consultant to possess.

A Travel Consultant in Today`s World
With the aviation and travel industry reeling from soaring fuel prices, downsizing of staff and the arrival of a zero-commission establishment, travel consultants may seem to have their backs against the wall. But there are alternatives and solutions.

So how does one turn a crisis into an advantage? Firstly, expand your comfort zone. As opportunity exists in the aviation industry beyond pilots and flight attendants, ticketing isn't the lifeblood of the travel industry. Try specialising in a destination or a particular interest. Secondly, educate yourself. As a travel consultant, you are selling your knowledge and experience. The more you have, the more you can offer to your client. Promote yourself not just as a travel agent, but as a travel consultant. And finally, analyze the dynamics of travelling. What is the basic motivation for travelling? What makes a particular destination unique? Which experiences would perfectly suit your client?

The name aside, travel consultants are much more than simply agents for product suppliers. Like an intrepid explorer, the mission of a travel consultant is to create a path to the unknown and bring the world closer together. This mission isn't always the easiest, but it is possible - should you choose to accept it, of course.