The travel industry has been in the news a lot recently - for obvious reasons. So the idea of starting up in the business yourself might seem ill timed, to outsiders. In fact, according to those in the industry, things are definitely on the up and the service that an independent agency can offer is very appealing to a discerning public.
You won't be able to compete with the big brands on price so it is all about what you can offer over and above that. This is where customer service is so important, what differentiates your business from others. Overall quality of service is a key aspect.
The current market
Setting up as a travel agent shouldn't be confused with being a tour operator. The difference is that the former sells the holidays while the latter organises them. It's possible to set up as an independent tour operator but there is a lot of competition for big firms that have the buying power to keep prices lower.
This isn't to say travel agents are any less competitive but most are doing good business at the moment and apparently looking forward to a boom year next year. If this proves to be the case it would appear to be as good a time to start as any.
Who is it suited to?
By choosing a competitive industry you are inevitably resigning yourself to a high degree of hard graft. And you may not have the time to take advantage of the attraction of free or discount holidays at the start - so don't have that as your only motivation.
Having said that, there are few, if any, small businesses which afford you much respite in the first couple of years. So your motivation needs to be linked with the work and the service you are providing.
Whichever way look initially you will be dealing with people from whom you want something. You want tour operators to sell you good deals and you want your customers to buy them from you - not from Lunn Poly up the road.
This means you will be actively dealing with people all day either on the phone or in person - which is demanding even if you are naturally interested in people. But if you don't have the stamina or inclination for this kind of work you may wish to think on a career outside travel.
Travel agencies are more about selling advice to your clients than holidays. Your customers want to be reassured they will easily be able to hire a car, go walking or get vegetarian food. You will need to care about providing this personal touch.
And you don't necessarily need to have experience of the industry. As with most things it may help but the most important thing is to be prepared for a steep learning curve.
