Travel Consultant

Travel Consultants are responsible for providing first-level responses to customers’ travel queries, requests in airline and attractions ticketing arrangements, and hotel accommodations.

Travel Consultant Job Description

Provide information to customers including visa requirements, immunisation requirements and applicable discounts or corporate rates.

Facilitate bookings and ticketing with the reservations department based on customers' selection.

Respond to and resolve customers' queries and complaints promptly and professionally, ensuring a smooth travel experience.

Compile customers' feedback on vendors' service standards to keep up-to-date with upcoming travel destinations, trends, and ever-changing regulations.

Maintain records of departmental spending and budget utilisation for periodic review.

Develop personalised travel packages according to customers' preferences and special requests.

Regularly update knowledge on travel destinations, trends, and regulations.

Provide after-sales support to clients during and after their travel.

Note

Travel Consultants are likely to be well-travelled. They experience destinations and cultures first hand and as a result, they are able to advise clients on the best time to go, where to stay and what not to miss!

What you should know about Travel Consultant jobs in Singapore

Nature of Work

As Travel Consultants, you should be available 24/7 due to time zone differences, ready to assist clients at any hour with their travel needs.

Key Advise

You will need to master unique tourism offerings, specialising in eco-travel, and staying updated on health & safety protocols for key destinations.

Entry Requirements

Entry Requirements
Minimally, you need a diploma in Events Management.

It would be good if you have experience in the Tourism industry. Most employers prefer additional formal training as well.

Beyond the diploma, additional formal training in related areas such as Hospitality Management, Tourism Studies, or Business Administration is advantageous.

Obtaining certifications for specific destinations such as Adventure Travel, Luxury Travel or specific countries would be a plus, but not mandatory.
Possible Pathway

Possible Pathway

Skills you need to pursue a Travel Consultant career in Singapore

Hard Skills

Budgeting

Expertise in creating cost-effective travel plans and managing clients' travel budgets.

Excellent Customer Service

Ability to provide high-quality service, ensuring client satisfaction with travel arrangements.

Market Research

Proficiency in researching travel destinations, trends and services to offer informed recommendations.

Soft Skills

Communication

Exceptional verbal and written communication skills for clear, effective client interactions.

Interpersonal Skills

Ability to build rapport with clients, understanding their needs and preferences.

Attention to Detail

Strong ability to plan and organise travel itineraries, ensuring accuracy and client satisfaction.

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

Are Travel Consultants still in demand despite current technology?

The arrival of advanced technology has indeed changed the face of travel planning. However, the demand for Travel Consultants remains. Travel Consultants are well-informed and well-connected in the Tourism industry. They can offer the best advice and rates on vacation - which is what travellers find value in.
What are the differences between Travel Agents and Travel Consultants?

The primary distinction between Travel Agents and Travel Consultants lies in licensing requirements. In Singapore, Travel Agents must obtain a Travel Agent License (TAL) to operate legally. Travel Consultants, on the other hand, do not require such formal licensing.

Travel Agents typically work for travel agencies while Travel Consultants sell their services through personal cultural experiences and connections with various hotels and destinations.
How do Travel Consultants ensure that they stay up to date with the best rates about the travel destination?

Travel Consultants continuously research and monitor the Tourism industry's trends. They keep track of price fluctuations and promotional offers from airlines, hotels, tour operators, and other service providers.
Are there any considerations when recommending a travel destination?

Travel Consultants have to consider many factors, such as the clients' interests and budget, time of year, duration of stay, transport options and potential accommodations.
Can Travel Consultants work as Freelancers?

Many Travel Consultants work as freelancers because of how rewarding and profitable a career it is. There are many benefits, such as the freedom to set their own hours and schedule, the ability to work from anywhere and the potential to earn more money than they would when working for an agency.