Travel Agent

With a business like this, you're sure to be going places.

The main requirement for starting a travel agency or starting a business

as an independent travel consultant will be to check local regulations in terms of certifications that may be required to operate the business.

Additional considerations also include :

Operating a general travel agency, or specializing in a particular type of travel.

Operating location: storefront or homebased.

Target markets: the well-heeled traveler or the budget traveler.Advertising, promotions, and marketing. The travel industry as a whole is extremely competitive, especially for businesses that operate as general travel agencies. To limit competition it is important to specialize in this industry and seek a niche market.

Airport Shuttle Service

For those who don't mind the red eyes, an airport shuttle service is a practical business with an assured customer base.

Business Overview

Not unlike a limousine, taxi or courier service, the largest challenge to overcome in starting an airport shuttle service is to acquire an operator's license. An operator's license can be difficult to get through local government channels in most areas of the country, and very expensive if you plan to purchase one from an existing shuttle service. However, it's certainly not impossible to obtain an operator's license for a shuttle service, and it can be well worth the effort. An airport shuttle service can be a very profitable business to own and operate. Marketing a shuttle service is best accomplished by building alliances and partnerships with companies and local businesses that can supply you with customers, such as hotels, tour operators, travel agents, and large corporations.