Questions and Answers
What is one key characteristic of tour operators in relation to the products they offer to consumers?
Which function of tour operators involves managing risks associated with service quality and merchandising?
How do travel agencies primarily assist customers with their travel requirements?
What social function do tour operators fulfill in the tourism industry?
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What type of services does a travel agency typically arrange for its customers?
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What is a characteristic limitation of air travel for transporting goods?
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What distinguishes wholesaler travel agents from retail travel agents?
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Which form of travel agency is owned by two or more individuals?
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What is one of the primary functions of a travel agency?
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Which of the following travel agencies is NOT listed among the leading travel agencies in the Philippines?
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Study Notes
Travel Agency Functions
- Makes reservations for travel, including airline tickets and hotel rooms.
- Plans itineraries and computes accurate pricing for various travel services.
- Handles correspondence through multiple channels (telephone, email, fax) with customers and travel principals.
- Maintains organized records for reservations and stocks travel brochures.
- Manages customer complaints and liaises with service providers on issues.
- Arranges insurance and foreign exchange facilities for customers.
- Offers miscellaneous special services based on customer requests.
Linkages of a Travel Agency
- Collaborates with airlines and accommodation providers.
- Partners with cruise and insurance companies.
- Works with banking institutions and educational entities.
- Engages with travel trade associations for support and networking.
Tour Operator Functions
- Purchases tourist products (airline seats, hotel rooms, coach services) in bulk for resale.
- Creates inclusive tour packages that bundle various travel services.
- Acts as a connector between service providers and customers (marketing/sales).
- Bears risks related to merchandising and service quality.
- Provides information on destinations and travel activities.
- Facilitates national and international travel for those hesitant to journey alone.
Modes of Transport: Advantages & Limitations
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Air Transport Advantages
- Efficient for transporting goods and passengers quickly.
- Convenient during emergencies and natural disasters.
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Air Transport Limitations
- Generally more expensive than other transport methods.
- Not ideal for heavy or bulky goods.
Characteristics of Travel Agencies
- Arranges travel-related services and offers advice on destinations and logistics.
- Types include wholesaler agents (packages marketed through retail agents) and retail agents (sell directly to consumers with commission or markup pricing).
- Ownership structures include sole proprietorship, partnerships, and corporate entities.
Characteristics of Tourism Products
- Intangible: Services cannot be physically touched or owned before purchase.
- Psychological: Pertains to consumer experiences and expectations influenced by shared reviews.
- Highly Perishable: Services that cannot be stored; unused opportunities result in lost revenue.
- Composite Product: Combines services from multiple providers (e.g., airlines, hotels, restaurants) into a total travel experience.
- Unstable Demand: Influenced by various external factors; forecasting can be challenging.
- Fixed Supply: Tourism products require consumers to visit the location; they cannot be delivered like manufactured goods.
- Absence of Ownership: Services are provided for use and experience, not ownership.
- Heterogeneous: Quality and standards vary over time and by individual preferences, affecting each tourist's experience.
- Risky: Higher risk since purchases are made ahead of actual consumption.
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Description
Explore the essential functions of travel agencies and tour operators in this quiz. Learn about their services, partnerships, and how they manage customer interactions and logistics to provide seamless travel experiences. Perfect for those studying tourism management or interested in the travel industry.
