Australian luxury travel agencies are on the hunt for more advisors, with almost 80% planning to increase advisor numbers in the coming year according to a comprehensive analysis of Virtuoso-affiliated luxury travel agencies across Australia.
Nearly 90% of agencies anticipate increased sales in the coming year, reflecting the strong demand for upscale international travel by Australians.
While they are preparing to explore the world, travellers are also seeking the expertise, personal service and connections that only a professional travel advisor can provide.
“Being a travel advisor is a great career for people who want to channel that passion for travel and desire to serve into their profession,”
Michael Londregan, Managing Director, Virtuoso Asia-Pacific
In another sign of strong market growth, Mr. Londregan said a record number of Australian advisors would be attending Virtuoso Travel Week in 2016, with around 120 heading to Las Vegas for the week-long event, which starts August 6.
Mr. Londregan continues “It is very clear the travel advisor role is alive and thriving and the profession continues to evolve – with virtually all Australian-based Virtuoso agencies in business for more than 10 years and almost 60% celebrating more than 20 years in business.
“While the vast majority of advisors have more than 10 years experience, the greatest challenge for agencies is finding the right people to service an increasingly savvy client base.
“Today’s consumer is the most educated and informed traveller this industry has seen so travel advisors have to know how to cut through the clutter and curate experiences that go beyond the web. It’s a skilled profession and consumers are willing to pay for that expertise.
“With almost 70% of Australian Virtuoso agency members recording more than $14 million in annual sales, and most top advisor earnings anywhere between $70,000 and $200,000 a year, the luxury travel advisor is a great career option for people who are looking for the most exciting product in the world – the world, itself”.