1. Selling Special
Interest Travel

2. Lineup
• Business Writing Skills
• Interpersonal Communication
• Selling Special Interest Travel
• Touring the World
• Understanding Customer Needs
• Customer Focused Selling
• Professionalism at Work
• Customer Service
• Final Review

3. 3
Why Sell Special Interest Travel?
• Travel with a focus on a particular
activity, hobby, or interest is on the
upswing.
• The biggest growth has been in
adventure and active travel.
• Brand yourself – set yourself apart
from the competition
• Make money!

4. 4
Why Sell Special Interest Travel?
The Changing Consumer
• Baby Boomers
– Desire for active tours
– Desire for small groups and flexibility

5. 5
Why Sell Special Interest Travel?
Baby Boomers
• They aren’t the retirees of yesterday – they want
MORE from their trips –
• NO bus trips to Niagra Falls – they want to
EXPERIENCE a destination – not just see it.
• Even more are shying away from pre-packaged
trips and are seeking out those who can make
an FIT that allows them to pursue their interests
around the world.

6. 6
Why Sell Special Interest Travel?
Benefits to Agencies
• Creates identity in the marketplace
• Clients appreciate your specialized
knowledge
• Generates client loyalty
• May be easier to promote

7. 7
Why Sell Special Interest Travel?
Challenges
• More labor-intensive
• Time required to develop a niche
market
• Niche market may not be large
enough to be profitable
• Special interest markets may not be
easy to reach
• Must become an expert in another