Travel Agencies and Tourism Policies

Travel Agencies

• Travel agencies emerged in the 19th century, pioneered by Thomas Cook.
• Early agencies focused on railway and steamship travel.
• By the 20th century, agencies expanded to air travel and group tours.
• Today, online travel agencies (OTAs) like Expedia and Booking.com dominate.

Tourism Act of 2009 (RA 9593)

• Enacted in the Philippines to promote sustainable tourism.
• Strengthens the Department of Tourism (DOT).
• Established the Tourism Promotions Board.
• Aims to support local communities, enhance infrastructure, and attract investment.

IATA and NON-IATA

• IATA (International Air Transport Association) is a global trade association for airlines.
• IATA provides standardized ticketing systems and airline codes.
• IATA ensures safety and efficiency in air travel.
• NON-IATA Agencies are independent travel agencies not accredited by IATA.
• They often cater to niche markets.
• NON-IATA agencies have lower operating costs compared to IATA agencies.

Sectors of the Travel Industry

• Transportation includes airlines, railways, cruise lines, and car rentals.
• Accommodation includes hotels, resorts, hostels, and Airbnb.
• Food and beverage includes restaurants, catering, and local dining experiences.
• Attractions include cultural sites, theme parks, museums, and natural wonders.
• Travel services include travel agencies, tour operators, and online booking platforms.

Travel Documents

• Essential documents for international travel include:
  • Passport: Issued by the traveler's country of citizenship.
  • Visa: Permission to enter a specific country.
  • Ticket: Proof of a confirmed booking.
  • Additional documents: ID cards, vaccination records, and travel insurance.

Slogans

• Slogans highlight country's unique appeals.
• Examples: -Philippines: "It's More Fun in the Philippines." -Malaysia: "Truly Asia." -Australia: "There's Nothing Like Australia." -Thailand: "Amazing Thailand."

Passport

• A government-issued travel document identifying the holder as a citizen or national.

Visa

• A formal authorization permitting entry into a country.
• Types of visas include tourist, work, student, and transit visas.
• Some countries offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival privileges.
• Electronic visas (e-visas) are increasingly common.
• Passports include personal details, photo, date of birth, and travel history.

DSWD Clearance

• A Philippine government document for minors traveling abroad without parents.
• Ensures safety and prevents child trafficking.
• Required for: minors traveling alone, minors traveling with non-parent guardians.
• Documents required include birth certificates, parent/guardian consent.

Travel Management Companies (TMCs)

• TMCs provide corporate travel management services.
• Handle travel booking, expense management, and policy compliance.
• Traditional TMCs are offline, while modern TMCs use online platforms.
• Modern TMCs provide self-service tools, data analytics, and 24/7 support.
• TMCs include booking, policy compliance, risk management, cost tracking, and reporting.

Tour and Travel Agency Business

• Classifications of travel agencies include retail agencies, wholesale agencies, and online agencies (OTAs).
• Inbound operators handle tourists visiting the Philippines.
• Outbound operators organize tours for Filipinos traveling abroad.
• Start-up procedures include selecting a location, staffing requirements, legal requirements, profitability and growth factors, and money-saving options.

Explore the evolution of travel agencies from the 19th century to the rise of online travel platforms. Learn about the significance of the Tourism Act of 2009 in the Philippines and the differences between IATA and non-IATA agencies. This quiz covers critical aspects of the travel industry and its regulatory environment.