🗺️ Travel Agency Vetting Checklist

Call prep — July 3, 2026

📞 Intro Script

Opening
"Hi, my name is Chris Frisz. I'm looking to get into the travel industry full-time — specifically building custom itineraries, not just cruise packages, but full-service trip planning across all travel types. I'd love to learn more about your agency and whether there's an opportunity to work together, even if that means starting at the ground level."
Your background (if asked)
"I come from digital marketing and AI — I'm an SEO and AI specialist. I don't have direct travel agency experience yet, which is why I want to learn from experienced professionals. I bring strong tech skills and marketing expertise that translate well to itinerary planning and client acquisition."
The ask
"I'm open to starting entry-level or even volunteering my time initially. In exchange, I can help with your website SEO, email marketing, content, or any tech needs. So it wouldn't be one-sided."
Transition to questions
"Would you mind if I asked a few questions about the business? I want to make sure I'm joining the right team."

🏛️ Business Legitimacy

What is your Florida Seller of Travel registration number?
Must have one. Verify at FDACS. Hesitation = walk.
How long in business? Under what entity?
Verify on Sunbiz.org — active status, no red flags.
Member of ASTA, IATA, CLIA, or any consortium?
Consortium = supplier access. Virtuoso, Signature, Ensemble, Travel Leaders.
E&O insurance? Coverage amount?
No E&O = red flag.
Surety bond amount?
FL requires $25K minimum.

💼 Business Health & Scale

How many agents do you currently have?
Size of operation — know what you're joining.
Total booking volume last year?
Vague = small or struggling.
Repeat vs. new client percentage?
High repeat = good service.
Top 5 supplier partners?
Reveals actual relationships. Hotels, tour ops, DMCs.
Any FDACS or BBB complaints?
Tests honesty — you can verify independently.

🎓 Training & Mentorship

What does training look like for someone new?
Structured (modules, certs, shadowing) vs. "figure it out."
Will I shadow agents on live client calls & itinerary builds?
This is the gold. A manual alone isn't training.
Who would be my mentor? What's their background?
Google them. Check LinkedIn.
What certifications do you provide or require?
CTA/CTC, Marriott STARS, Hyatt Privé, destination programs.
How long before I'm handling clients independently?
Realistic = 3-6 months. "Immediately" = no real program.

🖥️ Technology & Systems

What booking platforms / GDS do you use?
Sabre, Amadeus, Apollo, VAX = good. Expedia = run.
What CRM for managing clients?
TravelJoy, ClientBase, Salesforce = pro. Spreadsheets = amateur.
How do you build & present itineraries?
Axus, Umapped, Travefy = pro. Word docs = dated.
Can I see a sample itinerary?
Tells you everything about their quality standard.

💰 Compensation & Structure

What does entry-level / apprentice compensation look like?
Hourly? Commission-only? Stipend? Unpaid?
When do I start earning commissions? What split?
Get the progression. Ask for it in writing.
W-2 or 1099?
Huge for taxes, benefits, liability.
Can agents charge planning fees to clients?
Essential for custom itinerary work.
Non-compete or exclusivity clauses?
Can you take clients if you leave? Work with others?
What happens to my client relationships if I leave?
You should own your book of business.

🔥 Operations & Deal-Breaker Questions

How do you handle trips gone wrong?
Real examples = good. Vague = no process.
Can I talk to current agents about their experience?
If they won't connect you — why not?
What's your agent turnover rate?
High turnover = bad culture, training, or economics.
Do you require me to recruit other agents?
If yes = MLM. Walk away.

📝 Overall Impression