Many folks find that working with a "host" agency is the most desirable way to operate their independent travel agent business. Host agencies specialize in offering independents sophisticated services, overrides, automation, quality control and support. By aligning yourself with a quality host agency you can catapult your business into existence with the great confidence that your clients will receive excellent service and a high level of expertise. This is especially true if you are brand new to the travel industry.

Finding a quality host agency is critical to your success as an independent travel agent. As you might expect, the agencies that advertise widely and have an aggressive recruitment program may not be the best choices.  Here are a few things to look for in a host agency;

 They already work with successful independent agents
They do not have any unresolved formal complaints against their agency
 They are committed to developing a professional independent agent network
They do not have a "travel agent recruiting" program.
They do not tout "travel agent ID cards" to obtain travel discounts.
 They do offer meaningful commissions and overrides
You can understand what you are getting for your investment (if any)
 They do offer ongoing support where they make money if you do

It really doesn't matter where the host agency is located, so don't get locked into the idea that they have to be down the street from your home-based operation.  There are several solutions to the issues of access, communication and delivery that resolve the question of location. Most of all you should feel comfortable with your new host agency and their ability to fulfill your needs as your business grows,

Feel free to check a host agency out with The Better Business Bureau, the FTC and any other organization you feel comfortable with. You should also check them out with some of their existing agents to see if they are happy.

Finally, almost every week I get a call from someone asking if I can recommend a host agency, or if I know that the host agency they are looking at is for real. Unfortunately, host agencies are very litigious (especially the flakes) and I cannot pass judgment on a host without facing some liability. However, I can certainly suggest those host agencies that have stood the test of time and have happy and successful independents working with them.

I have compiled a list of Host Agency that I feel represent the best of the best and am happy to share it with you. I think it is essential to your success whether you buy my books or not. The list resides at www.HBTANetwork.com  and is just a fraction of the information that you will need to succeed located on the site.

Finally, here are a few quality host agencies that you should consider. These host agencies have stood the test of time and offer quality operations. They are listed in no particular order, as each one would be an excellent choice for you to make. While there are hundreds of host agencies, these are the most stable and well established.

Recommended Host Agencies

MTravel.com
Well established (since 1956) company that is financially stable, reputable and with revenues over $115 million. Works with both new and experienced agents and gets to know their agents personally. You get the benefit of their size, but with a family feel.

Incentive Connection Travel
Located in Phoenix, Arizona, Incentive Connection Travel has been hosting agents for years and is well established with over 500 independent ravel professionals using their services.

TPI, Travel Planners International:
TPI is a well established host agency that works with experienced agents, as well as those new to the industry.

Dugans Travel :
Located in New Mexico, Dugan's Travel works with over 600 home-based part time and full time travel agents.

Nexion:
With revenues exceeding $100 million dollars, Nexion is well regarded in the travel industry as one of the most stable and professional host agencies out there.

Cruise Planners / American Express :
If selling cruises is in your future, you must check out Cruise Planners home-based agent program. Cruise Planners has won just about every award possible because of their excellent operation and reputation.

Partners in Travel :
Located in Florida, Partners in Travel has been established as a reputable host agency for decades. Be sure to check out their program and support.

Uniglobe
Uniglobe offers programs for all levels of travel agent hosting programs. Their innovative Mentoring program for new agents is well received by folks looking for a host that can offer training and support. Uniglobe is well established and known throughout North America.

TravelQuest
TravelQuest offers three excellent programs for agents and also works with new agents, as well. Check out their value proposition and see which plan works for your business plan.

Expedia Cruise Ship Centers
Expedia Cruise Ship Centers is an excellent choice if you are considering selling cruises. They have over 110 retail locations and 2,000 cruise agents throughout North America and do a considerable volume giving them extremely aggressive buying opportunities.

Coral Sands Travel
Coral Sands Travel has been around for years and its owner Peter Stilphen MCC is well known in the travel industry. Check out Coral Sands Programs to see if they are for you.

Outside Agents