the travel franchise companies house

• Host Agencies
• Accelerator Course
• Travel Jobs
• Travel Agent Chatter
• Etiquette & Rules
• Privacy Policy

Travel Agency Franchise or Host Agency? A Crash Course

Travel agency franchise or host agency, that is the question.

If you have stumbled onto this post, you have likely decided to enter the travel business but are debating whether or not a travel agency franchise is the best route for you. Well, beloved reader, you have found the right place! As is the nature of starting your own business, one question answered usually opens the door to another: What is the difference between a travel agency franchise and a host agency?

I have to admit, this article is long-winded and takes a long distance and microscopic look at franchises. If you're short on time, I made a few shortcuts:

• Basic franchise definitions (a tiny index and a good primer)
• Travel agency franchise profiles
• Host agency or travel agency franchise, what might be right for you?
• Quiz: What business model is best for me?

So if you are among those who are weighing options between purchasing a franchise or aligning with a host, well refill your mug with coffee or tea and settle in, because we’re going to explore some options and hopefully bring you closer to discovering a solution that works for you!

Whoa. Hold the Phone.

Before we really dig in, I want to quickly clarify what I mean when I say, “going with a franchise or host agency.” There’s a bunch of (independently owned) travel agency franchises listed on our site that are also host agencies. Yup, they’re a travel franchise AND a host! So when I talk about trying to decide between a franchise and a host, what I mean is deciding whether or not to purchase your own independently owned franchise—not aligning with a host agency that is also a franchisee (for example, the hosts on the Travel Leaders Franchise Group profile are all hosts AND independently owned franchises).

I only mention this because when I first started working with Steph here at Host Agency Reviews, I was totally baffled by all the different options available to agents considering what host agency to join.

And speaking of bafflement, this article is freaking long for a reason! There’s no hard and fast rule. *Sigh* If only! Therefore, I must provide a MAJOR DISCLAIMER: There isn’t really such thing as a “typical travel agency franchise.” There is always an outlier. So it’s really important to check with the franchise for specifics on your situation.

Okay, we’ve cleared that up. Let’s move on, shall we? 

Building Your Business

Every travel franchise and host is TOTALLY unique, but below is my attempt to classify some fundamental differences between a host agency and a travel agency franchise. I like to think of it like the difference between buying a house opposed to building one: With a franchise you’re walking into a turnkey business that is already structured and ready to go , and with a host you’re building your own business from the ground up. Here are a few key differences to keep in mind:

The Travel Agency Franchise

• Commissions/Royalties: Franchisees get 100% of the commissions. In turn, the franchisee (agency) pays a royalty or a monthly/annual fee to their franchisor (HQ)—many times a percentage of total sales, sometimes a flat fee.
• Brand: There is an established brand/name. A franchise owner pays a licensing fee for the right to use this branding and operate under their name. Some franchisors mandate you use their brand, and others offer more flexibility (you can have your own identity and co-brand with their name—ex: Mary's Travel, a CruiseOne affiliate).
• Accreditation: This varies depending on the franchise. Some travel franchises require owners get their own accreditation, others use the franchisor's accreditation.

The Host Agency

• Commissions/Royalties: There is a commission split (typically between 50%-100%) between the host and independent agent. There are no royalty/licensing fees.
• Brand: The travel agent creates their own brand, comes up with their own business name and customizes how they run and market their travel agency.
• Accreditation: The agent uses the host’s accreditation numbers.

We have tons of resources defining and exploring host agencies , but for this article we’re going to explore the travel agency franchise model more in-depth:

What is a Travel Agency Franchise?

A travel agency franchise is essentially a business in a box. It’s like buying a house—the foundation and scaffolding are already in place. All you need is your moving truck. If an agent invests in purchasing a franchise, they are walking into an established brand . . . everything from marketing materials & plans, procedures & operations. A travel agent who purchases a franchise can bypass some business development when opening an agency.

Among other things, brand recognition is a major part of a franchisee’s investment. You can probably imagine what pops up first when you google the word “fast food hamburger” (ahem, I can’t bring myself to say it, but think “cheery clown who struggles with applying red lipstick”). For folks who don’t want to invest the time and energy to build their own brand, this can be appealing.

Franchises, unlike hosts, are regulated by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), so there are certain things they’re required to do by law:

• A franchisor must show the interested parties (you) their Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). Here’s a great overview of what’s in the FDD from Entrepreneur.
• Once they’ve given you the FDD, you’re going to be excited… but hold your horses. Federal law requires you have the FDD in hand for 14 days before you give the final nod/signature of approval. (The government wants you to avoid buyer’s remorse.)

Breaking it Down Further

The travel agency franchise model can be further broken down in two different types (some franchises have agencies in both categories):

• Home Based:  These franchises typically register lower startup costs compared to retail franchises. This model can better accommodate newbies.
• Retail: Storefront travel agency franchises require a considerable financial investment and typically focus as much on management –– if not more –– than selling of travel. In this case, the franchisee is essentially responsible for managing a traditional brick and mortar travel agency, where they hire frontline agents to do the work of selling travel. This model is typically better for pre-existing travel agencies. A good rule of thumb is retail travel agency franchises are a good fit for agencies with sales of 4 million and upward. Sometimes agencies go this route when they have outgrown their business and have the capital and resources to expand. It's rare a newbie would ever go this route. 

Alright. No more dilly dallying. Let's see what this looks like in reality. 

Travel Agency Franchise Profiles

Here’s the deets on travel agency franchises as we know it thus far! We’ve profiled some franchises to get a sense of their range. You can count on the fact that we’ll be updating this info as we receive it! Below are the major players when it comes to travel agency franchises:

That will give you a good sense about what’s out there in terms of travel agency franchises. But what about how that compares to a host agency? Read on, fearless reader.

Okay, so most folks don’t know how to build a house, and even if you’re a decent carpenter, you’ll probably need some outside assistance. This is where the host agency comes in. A host agency gives their ICs the creative freedom to develop and build their own brand/business, but with some basic supports––they won’t tell you what kind of house to build or what colors to paint it (you won't hear, "You must paint it Ruby Red to stay on brand!"), but they can help you achieve your own vision along the way.

At the very minimum, a host will provide agents access to their accreditations/affiliations and support services as well as basic bookkeeping. In joining a host agency you have an opportunity to determine areas where you specifically need the most support, and build a plan “à la carte” style.

Maybe you’re a great plumber but a lousy electrician: Are you a grassroots marketing guru who can build your own website from the ground up, or do you live in the dark ages of technology like me and would benefit from a website template? Want to use a ticketing desk, or do you need the GDS? Want to invest in a lead program? You decide. You get to play to your own strengths and growth areas as a business owner.

With a host you’ll have access to their buying power, benefit from their vendor relationships and get some support with some of the “behind the scenes” operational/administrative stuff. You are pretty much entirely in charge of your own personal business model. (hint hint . . . The article “ What is a Host Agency? ” explains the role of a host agency in more depth).

There you have it. The barebones differences between a franchise and host. Again, my description is an overview of both business models. There are tons of subtleties, varieties and potential overlap when it comes to both hosts and franchises, but we gotta start somewhere, right?!

So, What Might Be Right for You?

Okay, okay you get it. Enough of the carpentry metaphors! How do I go about navigating this decision, you ask. Well, funny you should ask...

I’ve broken it down into three things you can consider when navigating whether to purchase a travel franchise or go with a host: budget, time and temperament. Onward!

1. Minding Your Budget: The Buck Stops Here

You don’t want to run out of money when your house is only half built. Regardless what way you’re leaning, it’s important to make a budget that’s realistic and will anticipate expenses (everything from registering your business to operations and marketing). 

Though money doesn’t make everyone’s world go around, sometimes the answer is as simple as cost. And this swiftly brings me to the the biggest difference between starting up as a franchisee and aligning with a host: The almighty dollar.

Travel Agency Franchise:

Initial Startup costs: $10,000-$39,000K

With a franchise, you are walking into a pre-existing brand and business model. But when you’re slinging someone else’s wares, you’ll have to cough up some dough to license the right to sell under that brand.

The initial startup cost of buying a travel franchise is much higher than aligning with a host agency (I’m talking thousands and sometimes tens of thousands here). In general, travel agency franchise startup costs can be divided into those that have startup fees under $11,000 (typically aimed at home based travel agents) and startup fees upward of $30,000 - $39,000 for those who want to open a retail location.

BUT … when we’re talking about the 30-grander retail franchises, we’re just talking the initial fee paid to the franchisor: Someone who wants to get a retail travel agency franchise up and running can plan on spending tens of thousands more on things like hiring personnel, utilities, lease agreements, staplers & office chairs, your office dog etc. 

Either way, a travel agency franchise is a big ticket item. Some of the franchises offer discounts to veterans and/or to women & minority business owners. Others compensate for the sticker shock by allowing you to pay in installments rather than a lump sum.

At the end of the day, you can count on shelling out more money up front for a franchise. It’s also important to mention that there may be, er, some room to negotiate. Are you a seasoned agent (or agency) that already has six zeros behind your sales figures? Well, then you can probably count on some leverage. Remember, it never hurts to ask.  And if you need help with negotiating your contract or reading over the FDD, here's our list of travel industry attorneys .

Maybe the buck stops there and you simply can’t shell out that kind of cash, but you have fallen in love with the brand. There's another option to consider: Finding an independently owned franchise in that network that also hosts agents!  That will afford you the opportunity to benefit from some of the franchise’s perks and––like robust marketing tools and the franchise’s buying power.

And that brings me back to the host agency.

Host Agency:

Startup Costs: Plan for $500-$2000

It’s safe to say that you can get your biz off the ground with a host for $500-$2,000 (and that may include other business expenses other than the money that goes to a host).

I cannot even begin to tell you the range of host agency fee structures. There are over 120 host agencies listed on the site and as many different ways to pay. Some hosts have zero startup costs and instead get their payday through commissions. Some hosts have monthly fees, others do not. Some hosts waive or reimburse a startup fee if you either make a sale in the first month or purchase amenities like E & O insurance or a website. One isn’t better than another––it’s all about what works for you, the agent.

At the end of the day, you're paying less up front with a host than you would a travel franchise.  The growth is typically slower but trade-off is you need less capital.  If the host agency route intrigues you, learn more about finding a host travel agency .

2. Time. Is It On Your Side?

How much time do you have to commit to running an agency? It takes time to build a business regardless of whether or not you purchase a travel agency franchise or go with a host (or, completely independent). But your choice will impact how much time you spend getting your business up and running, and how you spend your time during the day to day.   

Is patience someone else’s virtue? Do you need your business up and running yesterday? Well, as you can imagine, it takes a lot more time to build a house than to buy a house.

There is a reason why they call it a “turnkey business.” Franchisors use a pre-existing business model. They’ve done it a ton of times before, so the groundwork is laid out for you. Going with a franchise will save you a ton of research and development time in the sense that a lot of the business decisions are already made for you : The name, the niche (possibly, to a degree), the marketing plan and budget, etc.

Though owners get to determine their own business culture and make hiring decisions, they won’t need to spend time developing and testing marketing strategies or business protocols. To some, it can be a relief to spare themselves the burden of responsibility, and to others it can feel like creative restriction.

If you go with a franchise, typically you will be all in—especially with a retail franchise. It’s an investment for a reason! So while a franchise might be a good fit for folks who are really hungry and business savvy, but maybe don’t know much about selling travel on the front lines—it’s probably not best for those who don’t have a significant amount of time and energy to dedicate to their business.

Hosts will offer different levels of support to their agents, but in general, you’re going to put some serious time into business development before you even approach a host ( more on starting your home based travel agency ).

You are making your own blueprint for the business: Ideally, when you sign on with a host, you’re all ready to start selling travel, and that takes tons of creative energy and research time. You’ve already registered your business, set up banks accounts, purchased a web domain, business cards and marketing materials. You’ve developed your niche and have begun to develop a list of potential clients.

So you woke up wanting to put the first map of the moon in your article because you thought it’d be cool? Go for it.

You want to completely redesign your newsletter to reflect an astronautical theme? Why not? ( We did! )

At the end of the day, you determine how you structure your time. When you work with a host (or independently), you can follow your own whims. The risk is that you might get lost in the rabbit hole of curiosity … and another downside? You have to design those newsletters and write those articles yourself.

And all of that takes time.

When you work as an independent contractor through a host, you can grow your business at your own pace. Whereas a travel agency franchise is most likely a full time commitment, going with a host can be a good option for agents who are transitioning between jobs/careers, or have a huge passion and ability to sell travel and want to earn supplemental income. Don’t get me wrong, hosts want agents who are committed to and serious about selling travel. There is just more flexibility to take the time to grow your business and explore the industry.

It's Time for a Little Breather

Before I go back to regular programming, I want to give you a chance to rest your weary brain. If you're realizing this choice is taking up more brain real estate than you thought, HAR's course, the 7 Day Setup Accelerator might be a great support for you.

The course is written and taught by yours truly and Bridget Lee professional educator with deep roots in the travel industry. Maybe you notice a last name similarity? We're sisters and we both came up in a family that is deeply rooted in the industry. Check it out!

Okay. Just want you to know it's there as a lifeline if you need it :) Onward.

3. Work Style. What's Your Temperament?

What kind of work environment gives you energy? Some people prefer to follow the rules and some prefer to make them. Some thrive on structure and routine and some feel energized by complete creative control. Your workplace personality can play a big role in deciding whether or not to go with a franchise or a host agency. So what are some factors that might help you decide what’s right for you?

Because franchises are seeded from pre-existing business plans, in general it will have a more structured vibe. If you work through a franchisor, you won’t be able to wake up and act on the new logo inspiration that visited you in your dreams the night before. For some, this affords stability and security. For others, they find it creatively restrictive.

A host won’t tell you how to use your time or run your business. They won’t stop you from working in your pajamas (home based franchisees can work in pjs, too!). At the same time, they won’t be able to develop and test certain marketing strategies or products specific to your agency. They support you and your vision, but at the end of the day, you are responsible for your brand and making decisions about how to run your business. They might give you the tools to build your house, but they’re not going to build it for you. An agent under a host will be responsible for creating their own logo and marketing campaigns, but for a franchisee, it’s already done.

If creative control is important to you (developing your own branding, vision and mission), then a host would likely be a better fit. It’s a lot of work and responsibility—so if that makes your stomach churn, a franchise might be a better option.

In Summary: A little Soul Searching

At the end of the day, starting a travel agency will take a ton of work no matter what route you go—it’s just a matter of deciding what kind of work is more rewarding to you. Take our travel agency franchise or host quiz to help you navigate the process:

Well done, beleaguered reader! You have made it to the end. I applaud you!

I hope this provides fodder for a little soul searching. Here at HAR, we believe that you will be most successful if you are passionately connected to the work you do. If you go with a franchise, you’ll want to decide on a business model and brand that you can really get behind and support. If you go with a host, you’ll really want to have a strong handle on your vision for your business and what host agency is best for you.

Ready to get going? Check out our 7-Day Setup Travel Agency Challenge and get your agency up and running in no time! 

We’d love to hear your questions and have you share your experiences in the comments below—the good, the bad, and the harried!

A Tiny Index of Franchise Terms

Here's a little franchise terms cheat sheet, straight from Entrepreneur magazine . Hey, why reinvent the wheel?!

• Franchisee:  An individual who purchases the right to operate a business under the franchisor's name and system (that's you!).
• Franchisor:  The parent company that allows individuals to start and run a business using its trademarks, products and processes, usually for a fee.
• Franchise fee: The initial fee paid to a franchisor to become a franchisee, outlined in Item 5 of the Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD). For some franchises, this is a flat, one-size-fits-all fee; for others, it varies based on territory size, experience or other factors. Many franchisors offer franchise fee discounts for veterans, minorities or existing franchisees. And this is not to be mistaken for . . .
• Startup cost/initial investment: The total amount required to open the franchise, outlined in Item 7 of the FDD. This includes the franchise fee, along with other startup expenses such as real estate, equipment, supplies, business licenses, and working capital.

Franchisors are busy. Did you see the number of franchises they help keep going? Thank you so much to the fabulous people who took precious time out of their day to keep us honest. A special thanks to Pamela Hirsch, Perry Lungmus of Travel Leaders Franchise Group, Dan Hicks of Cruise Planners, Alicia Linden and Tim Courtney of CruiseOne/Dream Vacations, and Heather Han-McManus of Expedia CruiseShipCenters—they really schooled me in the different travel agency franchise models.

Photo credits:  Uitleg & tekst ,  Noelia ,  401(K) 2012

About the Author

Mary Stein has been working as a writer and editor for Host Agency Reviews since 2016. She loves supporting travel advisors on their entrepreneurial journey and is inspired by their passion, tenacity, and creativity. Mary is also a mom, dog lover, fiction writer, hiker, and a Great British Bake Off superfan.

• Non-host Options
• Travel Agent Basics
• Travel Industry Basics

* The email or password you entered is incorrect

Or login using:

Don't have an account yet?

Click here to sign up

Or sign up using:

Forgotten Password

Upgrade to a paid membership and never see an advert again!

• 5 credit reports

£50 /year+VAT

100 credit reports

£200 /year+VAT

Unlimited credit reports

£500 /year+VAT

£500 year+VAT

Why do we display adverts? The advertisements supplied by our carefully selected sponsors enable us to host and support the company data we share with our free members.

Watch this company for free updates

Simply enter your email address below and we will send you an email when the company files any documents or there is a change to their credit report.

We require your email address in order to send you alerts by email. You can unsubscribe at any time.

Thank you, you are now watching this company.

You will receive email updates when this company's information changes.

You can choose which alerts you receive and can unsubscribe at any time.

Unlock this Credit Report

£20 +vat.

• Unlimited access for 12 months
• Includes FREE report updates
• Free email alerts when report changes
• Includes 5 company documents

5 Credit Reports

£50 +VAT

Upgrade to Lite

• 100 accounts downloads
• 100 accounts exports

Your plan will start immediately and the time remaining on your existing plan will be refunded

THE TRAVEL FRANCHISE LIMITED

• Age: 13 Year(s)
• Directors: 3
• Company No: 07443792
• Directors & Secretaries
• Mortgages & Charges

Key Financials

• Credit Score
• Credit Limit
• County Court Judgements
• Key Factors
• Payment Data
• Shareholders & Ownership
• Group Structure
• Event History
• Export Financials
• Accounts Tables
• Contact Details
• Company Addresses

THE TRAVEL FRANCHISE LIMITED Credit Report

Includes Risk Score, Credit Limit, CCJs, Mortgages & Charges, Director & Secretary Timeline, Shareholders, Ownership & Group Stucture. Plus UNLIMITED updates and FREE documents!

Private limited with Share Capital

Company is dissolved

18 November 2010

Accounts information not available

Current Directors & Secretaries

For a full in-depth analysis on each of these directors, click any of the links below

Previous Directors & Secretaries

Mortgages and charges.

Sign Up Today to unlock this company's full accounts

Suggested companies

Inteletravel.com, not just travel, travel counsellors.

The Travel Franchise   Reviews

In the Travel agent category

Visit this website

Company activity See all

Write a review

Reviews 4.8.

Most relevant

Franchise owner training

Recently attended the franchise owner training week and must say it was fantastic. Very well structured, interactive and the presenters were open, friendly, extremely helpful and clearly SMEs with many years experience which they were eager to pass on. If you're looking to move inot this business then thoroughly recommend.

Date of experience : 29 March 2024

Millionaires Retreat Fuerteventura

Attended the Millionaires Retreat in Fuerteventura for the experience, travel, inspiration, motivation & to meet other like minded Travel Consultants & Not Just Travel Founders, Business Development Manager, Brand Ambassador & other members of the Team. What a first class event from the organisation to the amazing hosting by Tui, to the amazing resort & new friendships forged, from the bespoke teaching to the entertainment & I could go on!! Filled with pride for my Franchise & furnished with everything (& more!) that I need to advance to my goals set & prosper in the process. A big thank you to all involved at every step of the way - something you really don’t want to miss🌍 miss

Date of experience : 12 March 2024

6 weeks in, update

The support from my BDM has been amazing. My BDM is always on hand to help and answer any weird and wonderful questions I may have surrounding the business. The advise she gives me both with business and travel advice is always helpful and informative. I have found the access to the resources really helpful, specially the Facebook support groupgroups

Date of experience : 28 February 2024

Reply from The Travel Franchise

Great news! Our BDMs really are a huge asset! Hope you are enjoying researching and booking holidays. Every day is different and you learn a new thing every day.

Loving life as a travel agent

From starting in October 2016 with no previous experience in travel I have recently achieved the status of "Diamond" and with sales to date just short of £6 million. The Not Just Travel of today is unrecognisable of the one I joined back then as there has been so much investment into the company which in turn gives us more tools to help us grow our own personal businesses. Looking forward to a great future with the continued and amazing support of our head office and bdms So many friends have been made along the way too!

Date of experience : 23 February 2024

Thanks Lloydie for the review, you are a true Diamond in every way.

Great so far

The support from my BDM has been amazing. My BDM is always on hand to help and advise me both with business and travel advice. I have found the access to the resources really helpful, the webinars, Facebook support groups and daily emails are great. I have really enjoyed my experience so far with the Travel Franchise!

Date of experience : 27 February 2024

So glad to hear this! We love our BDMs (Business Development Managers) who are on call to help every consultant when they start and as they build their business. They have years of experience which means you don't have to have worked in travel when you join us. The Facebook support group is a gem too! You can pick up lots of tips! Good luck!

Amazing NJT experience!

I am absolutely loving my NJT experience so far!! My BDM has been absolutely incredible, always there whenever we need her and so helpful with everything! Can’t wait to see what the future has in store!

Date of experience : 29 February 2024

Glad you agree - the BDMs are simply fantastic! Upbeat, informative and really friendly. And they can really help at every stage of your business!

Now officially 4 months into our NJT Travel Venture

Now officially 4 months into our NJT Travel venture, and loving it. Whilst it is initially challenging, the NJT wider team support is superb and the Business Development Managers (BDM's) are ever present and willing to help. We have just finished a successful one day 'refresher' training day in Stratford, highlighting the support we continue to receive. Also just cracked a couple of NJT milestones that always make you feel great, and open up further opportunities to grow your travel business.

Date of experience : 25 February 2024

So glad you are using all our resources Paul and getting to grips with the business. It can be tough at the beginning but it's a fun journey as you move through our career ladder, plus the BDMs change and help you at different stages of your business. Enjoy!

What a 3 years!!!

What a 3 years!!! We are nearly 3 years into our new Business with Not Just Travel (Travel Franchise) and wow what a time it has been. The Training and development we have recieved along with the expert guidance from the BDM's has supported our growth from only having 40 Facebook friends between us to having a Facebook following of nearly 3,000 people, winning the Money Back Challenge in 7 months and a business that turns over well over 1.5 million a year and earns us a lifestyle where we can do what we love from anywhere in the world. It is a great network to be part of socially as well with all the trips we get to go on where we learn and have fun at the same time. We have grown as individuals so much these past 3 years.

Thanks for the feedback James, we are so glad you joined the team and love what you do!

Some red flags......

I was so happy to join the NJT team and was very impressed with the elite package. However once I'd signed on the dotted line and completed the training I started to see some red flags. *In the joining videos you are told that you will be competitive on price which is simply not true. I saw many consultants ending up using their own commission to bring prices down. *You can't access the 'partners in travel' until you hit a certain target, never any mention of this at sign up. * I had major surgery which I informed my BDM about. At the same time my customer had a change to her flight and no one from NJT informed her. I would understand if I was on holiday but I was literally in hospital!! *There's also a bit of misleading about the commission it's not 75% it starts at 50% then goes up to that figure. *We were also never informed about credit card charges which we as consultants have to pay for..... There are other things I could mention however all of this stress on top of my own personal issue's has really taken a toll on my mental wellbeing. So sadly my dream has turned into a nightmare and I feel completely conned.

Date of experience : 15 September 2023

My BDM, Donna, has been SO HELPFUL, I don't even have the words to describe her. She is always available, always give me the right advice and gives me input. She celebrates my sales with me, comfort me on my mistakes and teach me the right way. I think a fairy Godmother would be a fair description to start with. All my thanks to you

Donna is fabulous and has decades of experience in the industry - you are in good hands!

Cruise Division

I have recently joined the Cruise Division. The team of Duncan, Gemma and Holly are so knowledgable and just want to help novices like me. Nothing is too much for them. Gemma’s enthusiasm every time you speak to her, just wants you to go out and succeed.

Date of experience : 06 March 2024

Thanks Nick, our Cruise team are ace, a font of knowledge and really inspirational. I am sure you will find being part of the Division really helpful and lucrative too.

Fabulous Cruise Support

I just wanted to say that I am thoroughly enjoying my successful journey with the Travel Franchise at the moment. As a completely new arena for me, I have been made to feel welcome and even though I have been working part time, the success has been incredible all along. Now I have start promoting cruise holidays (one area that I knew nothing about) but the support from Gemma to push me forward has been exceptional. She has been supportive while very subtly pushing me to do things which have resulted in success. Everyone has been very open and welcoming and I look forward to bigger and better things and a brighter future with the amazing team.

Date of experience : 20 February 2024

Thanks Greg for the feedback. We are so proud of the cruise division and the cruise team who are helping so many consultants learn and get to grips with this sector of the industry which is really lucrative. Good luck!

A lot to learn but great training and support.

I invested in an Elite Franchise in October 23 and decided to invest further in the Cruise Division a month later. There is an immense amount of information to absorb. My journey with Cruise and the Mastery training has been a challenge in terms of available time. However, Gemma Outram has been a great support and mentor offering her great deal of knowledge of the Cruise industry which has certainly made things more understandable.

Thanks Richard. Gemma and the cruise team are incredible and can teach you everything you need to know about cruise. Good luck!

Vast knowledge of travel industry

We got to listen to and work with the experts who work for NJT, listening to their experiences, tips and ideas. They have a vast knowledge of the travel industry between them and I don't think that they missed anything out to help us to get our businesses up and running.

Thanks Alison for your feedback. We really do care and love seeing people grow their business!

A really informative week

A really informative week. All the trainers were really knowledgeable and positive. The training was really intensive and there was a lot to take in at times and my brain felt just a little fried by the end of the week, but overall I feel that I have learnt a lot about the travel industry.

Thank you for your review. We are glad you enjoyed induction and don't forget to ask for support from your BDM if you need it! Good luck!

Over 5 Years a Franchise Owner

Been a Not Just Travel Franchise Owner for circa 5 years now and love being my own boss. I have a successful business that is growing exponentially and the future opportunities are very exciting. This comparative rapid growth and success would not have been possible without the individual mentoring from my general operations Business Development Manager, Natalie Singleton who help me grow by sales turnover by 110% last years. The NJT Cruise Masters team are awesome, Gemma, Duncan and Holly. My individual cruise BDM, Gemma Outram has worked with me weekly and helped my grow my cruise business by over 400% last year. Even the owner Steve Witt chipped in my individual support last year. And you get training seminars in places like Morocco, Cyprus, Mexico, Mauritius to name but a few locations and on cruise ships. It`s a tough job but somebody`s got to do it 😎 Andy Cunningham

Thanks Andrew, glad you are enjoying the mentoring and advice from Steve, Natalie, and the cruise team. Plus the trips abroad of course! If anyone is reading this, Andrew is a fabulous consultant and we are glad that he's part of the team!

Fabulous support! Kind and so helpful...

Donna, at The Travel Franchise and Not Just Travel, is a wonderful Business Development Manager! She brings everything the company stands for, and more, to our one to one meetings. Not Just Travel and its Travel Consultant training is incredible. There is just the right amount of regular contact, and they are always there when you have a question or get stuck with something. I wish I had joined years ago, but so pleased I took that leap of faith and now have a great future ahead with them. If you're thinking about joining, my recommendation is do it, and do it now! Thank you to everyone at Not Just Travel!

Date of experience : 21 February 2024

Thanks Trevor, Donna is ace! As are all our BDMs who will help you as you build your business in different ways. Good luck and hope to meet you soon at an event.

Just completed my initial training with…

Just completed my initial training with Not Just Travel, a great week, lots of new things learned, training team were friendly, helpful and knowledgeable. Looking forward to the start of this new adventure!

Thanks Sherrie for the feedback. Shout if you need us, we are here to help!

Incredible knowledge and support

So happy to be part of Not Just Travel for many reasons. We achieved the money back challenge and are building a fabulous lifestyle business. The investment in training and support from Head Office is incredible and my BDM Natalie is positive, enthusiastic and committed to helping me to improve my business, she is also a great cheerleader which I feel is very important when you work at home by yourself. I wanted to learn more about cruise, which is something I knew nothing about at all before joining NJT. Again massive investment resulted in the relatively recently formed cruise division, and it is fantastic! Duncan and Holly are available, encouraging and extremely knowledgable. I also want to give a particular shout out to Gemma Outram not only for her unparalleled knowledge of the industry but also her patience and the way that she is managing to encourage me to step outside of my comfort zone to best grow my business. It is very reassuring to know that the team is always available for any question. All of this alongside some amazing trips we have taken and friends we have met. Thank you NJT!

Thank you for your feedback. Our cruise division is really second to none. The guys know everything there is to know about cruise and it's such a lucrative area if you get to grips with it! Hope you get to enjoy many more trips!

The team made us feel welcome and all…

The team made us feel welcome and all our questions and quieries were answered. We even had the privilege of interacting and receiving mentoring from one of the co-founders Steve Witt. There was alot to take in but all the information was delievered with enthusiasm and a positive vibe. I also feel that we will have their support and guidance which is such a reassuring element. Well done to all the team.

Date of experience : 22 January 2024

Great you got trained by Steve! That's the beauty of the company, the co-founders are really hands on and go on the company trips helping to mentor consultants. Thanks for taking the time to give us a review! Hope you enjoy your new role!

• Accounting & Financial Franchises
• Advertising & Marketing Franchises
• Automotive Franchises
• Business Opportunities
• Business Services Franchises
• Children's Franchises
• Cleaning Franchises
• Coffee Franchises
• Computer & Internet
• Consultant & Business Brokers
• Courier Franchises
• Employment & Staffing
• Entertainment Franchises
• Fitness Franchises
• Food Franchises
• Health & Beauty
• Healthcare & Senior Care
• Home Based Franchises
• Home Services Franchises
• Industrial Franchises
• Mailing & Shipping
• Moving & Storage
• Pet Franchises
• Photography Franchises
• Printer, Copying & Sign Franchises
• Real Estate Franchises
• Restaurant Franchises
• Retail Franchises
• Sports Franchises
• Tax Franchises
• Training Franchises

Travel Franchises

• Vending & ATM Franchises
• Franchises Under $1,000
• Franchises Under $5,000
• Franchises Under $10,000
• Franchises Under $20,000
• Franchises Under $30,000
• Franchises Under $40,000
• Franchises Under $50,000
• Franchises Under $60,000
• Franchises Under $70,000
• Franchises Under $80,000
• Franchises Under $90,000
• Franchises Under $100,000
• Franchises Under $200,000
• Franchises Under $300,000
• Franchises Under $400,000
• Franchises Under $500,000
• United States of America
• International Franchises
• Franchise Directory A-Z
• Top Franchises
• Hot & Trending Franchises
• New Franchises
• Low Cost Franchises
• Recession Resilient Franchises
• Green Franchises
• Mobile Franchises
• SBA Approved Franchises
• Special Financing Offers
• Franchises for Veterans
• Master Franchises
• Franchise Information Center
• Ultimate Guide to Franchising
• Ultimate Guide to Financing a Franchise
• Ultimate Guide to FDDs
• FDD Research Hub
• Franchise Services
• Franchise Direct Blog
• Franchise Articles
• Franchise Reports
• Franchise News
• Franchise Success Stories
• Testimonials
• Franchise Expos and Events
• Franchise Videos
• Discovery Days
• The Franchise Direct Top 100 Global Franchises List
• Franchise Direct's Top 100 Franchises 2024
• Top 100 Franchises Ranking for 2023
• Top 100 Franchises Ranking for 2022
• Top 100 Franchises Ranking for 2021
• Top 100 Franchises Ranking for 2020

Travel Franchise Opportunities for Sale

More results...

Prior to the pandemic, travel-related jobs directly accounted for 6% of the US workforce, while travel-supported jobs accounted for 11% of the nation's workers. And with a bit of good fortune, the travel industry won't take long to get back to where it was in 2019.

Before the pandemic, travel was the 7th largest employer in the private sector and the largest small-business employer in the United States (that's travel-dependent leisure and hospitality). One in ten private-sector jobs were supported by travel, and the travel industry supported 15.8 million American jobs - that's planes, trains, and automobiles, people.

So, once we start moving about again, there's enormous potential in the travel franchise industry to once again bring vigor back to the sector.

The primary type of travel franchise is the travel agency franchise sector, such as Cruise Planners, Dream Vacations (formerly CruiseOne), and Expedia Cruises. And although these companies all contain "cruise" in their brand names, they cover more than boats - they provide access to air, land, and sea vacations.

Another popular travel franchise sector is the hotel industry. Nearly all American hotel chains are franchises, and while the costs of investing in hotel chains can be extremely high, it’s a fertile industrial sector to plant your money.

Franchising

People spend a lot of money on their vacations. On average, the American consumer spends 5% of their income on planning and booking their holiday. That amounts to an average of $2,400.

Of course, many people spend way more than that - but there's one critical metric that all consumers need when they invest their hard-earned money in a dream trip:

And one of the principal problems with small, independent travel companies is that the general public doesn't necessarily trust the small guys. They often opt for the tried-and-tested brands well-known for delivering excellent customer service and the best deals.

So, franchising is the ideal option for anyone hoping to get into the travel industry.

A travel franchise provides a ready-built reputation for excellent customer service and satisfaction. They offer instantly recognizable branding that affords immediate curb appeal, and they come with compliance with all the complicated and technical travel guidelines, regulations, and protections that consumers expect.

Travel franchise parent companies usually provide world-class training to bring you up to expert level - they have their hard-earned reputation to protect, after all. As well as training, most travel franchises also provide HR services that help you ensure that your business works in line with US business and employment regulations.

Facts About Travel Franchises

The travel industry is essential to the general health of the US economy, and many believe that the economy won't recover fully until the travel industry is up and running again. As the Travel Technology Association puts it:

“The travel industry is a vital facet of our nation’s economy, generating billions of dollars in revenue, supporting millions of jobs nationwide.”

But there is light at the end of the tunnel as restrictions ease and vaccine programs roll out. Analysts are already seeing signs that the travel franchise industry is recouping the $500 billion loss in travel spending experienced in 2020 and is once more on the path of steady growth.

And as consumer confidence returns, we’ll see international visitors return, bringing with them their keenness to spend their holiday dollars in the United States.

It’s easy to get glum about the prospects for the travel franchise industry, but - actually - there’s every reason to feel positive, making this a great time to invest in a travel franchise.

Travel franchises offer a range of travel-related services, from full package holidays to transport solutions. They give customers a wide choice of budgets and standards to meet their holiday and traveling wish list.

There are still tremendous profits to be made in the budget holiday offering, providing the lower-paid the opportunity to enjoy their vacation in comfortable, pleasant surroundings.

Of course, there are considerable profits to be found in the high-end vacation choices - from luxury stays in Las Vegas's most exclusive hotels to exotic American tours and - of course - fabulous holiday cruises on vast travel liners.

Franchising Vs. Independent

Franchising requires an initial investment, starting from around $50,000, moving into the hundreds of thousands for the most exclusive brands.

Most of us require funding from an outside source to gather the startup collateral for a travel franchise, and this is where the franchise model really does come into its own.

The majority of banks and moneylenders are keen to invest in franchises because they represent a minimal risk compared to small independent companies that are setting up without the support of an established partner.

Independent companies lack proof of the market viability of their business model, whereas travel franchises can demonstrate a history of profit and sustainability (even in tough times). Franchises have the support of an experienced partner who knows the marketplace and has already forged their products in line with customer needs.

Franchise companies tend to hit the ground running, while independent companies often struggle to survive beyond the first five years of trading.

One of the principal pain points for new indies is their lack of reputation, meaning that they often struggle to establish themselves in the crowded marketplace.

In fact, almost half of all independent companies go bankrupt before their fifth birthday as they struggle to recoup their initial investment and turn around a profit.

On the other hand, franchising is often considered the common-sense way to start up in business for yourself - taking on a ready-formed business model that has proven its market viability; with branding that future customers already know, love, and trust.

Check out Franchise Direct's brilliant selection of travel franchises.

You can also check out many more related franchises here on Franchise Direct, such as:

• Hotel Franchises
• Travel Agency Franchises

You have saved info requests

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

The Best Travel Agency Franchises of 2023 (Updated Rankings)

Last updated on March 1, 2023 by Franchise Chatter 1 Comment in Franchise Chatter Hot List , Travel Franchise

This annual list of the best travel agency franchises was revised and updated on March 1, 2023.

💵 Interested in any of the franchises on this list? Click here to find out if they (or similar franchises) are still available in your area.

Although the internet has made it easy for anyone to book flights and hotel rooms, there is still a large market for travel agencies, mostly focused on booking full vacation packages for people who don’t have the time or inclination to figure out all the details. By taking over the planning for travelers, agencies add value, reduce hassle, and draw in business. This is why cruise and travel agency franchises have a market size of $5.7 billion and employ over 29,000 people in nearly 11,000 businesses .

The Growth in Franchised Travel

Cruises play a large part in the business of travel agency franchises. This fits the model of these agencies, as cruises provide an all-in-one holiday package, the sort of thing that travelers go to agencies for. They’re also relatively high value holidays that can provide a good commission relative to the work involved in arranging them. There are so many options, even within the cruise industry, that it’s often hard for customers to figure out which one is right for them, and an agency can help with this. Travel agencies can obtain discounts on cruise bookings thanks to their relationships with the cruise companies, saving consumers hundreds of dollars per cruise.

These businesses grew an impressive 13.6% per year on average from 2018 to 2023 . Some of this growth came from trends that were already in place in the 2010s, as high consumer spending boosted travel and franchise agencies moved in to take a share of the market. Online agencies in particular benefited from lower costs that allowed them to offer better deals and make better profits. Ever since the mid-90s, travel agencies have been shifting toward an online, home-based model, and that’s an approach that really fits current times.

The tourism industry was badly damaged by the Covid pandemic. Strict controls on both international and domestic travel, fears about the virus, and horror stories about outbreaks on cruise ships combined to kill a huge portion of the tourist trade. Cruise ships remained docked in US ports throughout 2020 under a no sail order from the Center for Disease Control. Revenues for travel and cruise franchises fell from over $3.2 billion to under $2.7 billion in 2020 , a less dramatic fall than was initially reported, but still a serious blow for an industry that had been rising in value for the whole of the previous decade.

Revenues were initially slow to recover, reaching $3 billion in 2021, still behind where the industry had been pre-pandemic. More than half of American consumers put money away in 2020 to spend on things they’ve missed during the crisis, and tourism was part of that, but health fears and financial insecurities still held some people back. The future of the industry looked uncertain.

Prospects for Travel Franchises

Despite all the uncertainties and challenges, things have now swung the other way. Franchised travel and cruise businesses are seeing the greatest growth they’ve ever experienced, reaching $5.1 billion in value in 2022 and with their market expected to reach $5.7 billion in 2023.

This has clearly been driven in part by people getting out and traveling post-Covid. The economic recovery and the pent-up desire for travel have benefited the industry, and franchises have taken a large part of that. E-commerce sales are also important , as more travel bookings shift online, where the brand reach and marketing power of franchises provide significant benefits. This fits well with a working from home model which has allowed the industry to cut costs, and so to offer more appealing deals.

But while revenues are expected to grow in the next year, profits are expected to decline . Geopolitical tensions and ongoing health concerns still affect customers’ travel plans, while rising competition in the industry is pushing down prices and so profits. The prospect of an economic downturn could further impact the industry, as expensive vacations are something that consumers will cut back on if finances get tight.

Problems in specific parts of the world can affect some travel agents. For example, an agency with a focus on eastern Europe would have seen a lot of business lost in the past year thanks to events in Ukraine. It’s impossible to plan for every eventuality, but offering a diverse range of options can protect a business against events beyond its control.

Travel agencies are surprisingly low-cost franchises to purchase. The cost of entry is low, with little expenditure on equipment and training. This means that there’s also plenty of competition, which can create both challenges and opportunities. In current circumstances, this is an accessible option for a franchise, but one that holds potential for strong long-term profits if the tourism industry continues its current trend. Recent dramatic growth can make the sector seem very appealing, but before jumping on board, it’s important to ask, how sustainable is that growth, and how much of it will turn into profit?

The Top Travel Agency Franchises of 2023

1. cruise planners.

Cruise Planners is a work-from-home franchise concept in which its Travel Advisors sell all kinds of vacation travel packages, but with a special focus on cruises. Cruise Planners as a company has become a recognized master of micro-targeted email marketing along with its other high-tech, big-data-driven marketing tactics and technologies that give Travel Advisors the edge they need to succeed. In fact, its chief information officer, Brian Shultz, was once named CIO of the Year at South Florida Business Journal’s Annual Technology Awards.

Founded in 1994 by Michelle Fee in Coral Springs, Florida and franchising since 1999, the number of locations expanded rapidly in recent years from 1,172 in 2012 to 3,151 in 2020 but has since dropped back to the current total of 2,585 (down from the previously reported total of 2,659), of which one is company-owned and all are located in the US.

🔐The Very Best of Franchise Chatter

America’s most lucrative franchises, franchises ranked by average sales & profits, franchise winners, survivors & losers, ✅ subscribe now or ✅ log in, 2. dream vacations.

Dream Vacations is a spin-off from CruiseOne in order to make sure people knew they did more than just book cruises. Both travel franchise concepts are owned and operated by World Travel Holdings. The cost for a new franchisee without travel agent experience is just under $10,000, while those with a medium level of experience get a 67% discount and more experienced travel agents can buy in at a 95% discount.

Franchisees can literally work from anywhere with an Internet connection, and are encouraged to travel as much as possible themselves to keep their own knowledge and travel experiences up-to-date to improve their customer service. And franchisees also get to do their own travel at deeply discounted rates.

Founded in 1991 and franchising since 1992, the number of locations grew steadily from 909 in 2012 to 1,553 in 2020, then dropped to 1,489 in 2021, and has now risen to the current total of 1,618, of which none are company-owned and two are located outside the US.

3. Travel Leaders

Travel Leaders has a long history dating back to the 1800s. Wagonlit Travel was founded in 1872 by Georges Nagelmackers (who created the Orient Express) while Ask Mr. Foster was a travel agency founded in 1888 by Ward G. Foster. In 1979, Carlson Travel Networks acquired Ask Mr. Foster and in 1997 merged with Wagonlit Travel to form Carlson Wagonlit Travel. Then in 2008, a three-way merger with Carlson Wagonlit, Tzell Travel Group, and Travel Leaders resulted in the Travel Leaders franchise.

The company is known for going the extra mile in customer service – not only getting to know customer preferences, but also helping them through any and all issues or challenges that may arise during travel.

Founded in 1888 and franchising since 1984, the number of locations declined for a time and the last known reported total was 367 in 2016, of which 24 were company-owned and three were located outside the US. The company website claims nearly 7,000 “travel agency locations,” but it’s not clear what is being counted – individual agents or agency locations.

4. Expedia Cruises

Expedia Cruises , as its name implies, has a special focus on selling cruises, but also offers a full array of other travel services and vacation packages of all types. This company has the distinct advantage of carrying the well-recognized Expedia brand name. Expedia purchased CruiseShipCenters International in 2007 and eventually decided franchising was the way to expand it.

Franchisees can get involved as individual travel agents (Vacation Consultants) who can work from home or at the nearest retail location, or can select to run a retail location.

Founded in 1987 and franchising since that same year, the number of locations climbed slowly but steadily in recent years from 159 in 2012 to 269 in 2020, but has since fallen to the current total of 246 (down from the previously reported total of 253), of which none are company-owned and 159 are located outside the US.

An Important Note About Our Methodology

The franchises on this list were ranked according to the number of units in the franchise system. If you are a prospective franchisee searching for franchise opportunities that meet or exceed certain performance benchmarks for sales, profits, and return on investment , please check out this list of America’s Most Lucrative Franchises .

🚀Can't Make It to Our Live Webinar for First-Time Franchise Buyers? REGISTER Anyway, and We'll Send You a Recording After the Event

Reader Interactions

September 24, 2023 at 1:18 am

Hello I’m asking for franchise travel agency in lebanon Thank you

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Previous post: FDD Talk 2018: Pinkberry Franchise Review (Financial Performance Analysis, Costs, Fees, and More)

Next post: FDD Talk 2018: Blaze Pizza Franchise Review (Financial Performance Analysis, Costs, Fees, and More)

Please enable Javascript in your browser.

• Travel Franchise

Key Differences Between a Travel Franchise vs Host Agency

Traveling is once again on the rise and everybody has the travel itch these days! This leads to many enthusiastic entrepreneurs wondering how they can make some money from the lucrative travel industry. In a recent interview in Travel Weekly , you can find some of the differences between a travel franchise vs host agency . There are many ways to get started in the travel world, and it’s important that you take a deeper dive into all the business models out there before choosing the right one for you.

When you first begin your journey as a travel franchise owner, you may become confused with some of the options out there. Below, we’ve broken down some of the key models you can choose from when you’re first getting started as a travel agent.             

What Is a Host Agency?

A host travel agency is a business that hires travel agents as independent contractors. This means that someone can work for you as a travel agent and be affiliated with a you, the host agency. The independent agent remains the owner and operator of their own business (e.g., self-employed) and is not considered an employee of the host agency.

Each host agency can have different rules for contracting independent agents. Although, they regularly serve as mentors for their agents and provide them with resources such as marketing, training, technology and a network to introduce them into the travel industry. In exchange for the mentorship from the host agency, the independent agent can pay the agency fees or a commission.

What Is a Travel Franchise?

Travel franchises are when you own a travel agency, whether the franchise is a storefront or a home-based business, under an established brand. Travel Weekly calls the travel franchise model a “success in a box” thanks to how affordable, profitable and easy it is to run.

Franchises are heavily regulated through the federal government, as well as at the state level for some. This regulation makes it a very reliable way to get started in the travel industry as a business owner while still getting the support of an established name. It also means there are only a few travel business franchise opportunities , which includes Dream Vacations Franchise. A brand established in 1992, Dream Vacations Franchise has more than 30 years of experience in the business and consistently ranks as the number one travel agency franchise.

How Does Dream Vacations Franchise Work ?

As a Dream Vacations Franchise Owner, you get to be your own boss! To begin, you pay a one-time fee starting as low as $3,500. Since owners can work from anywhere with an internet connection, there is very low overhead and no inventory required, making this one of the most affordable franchises .

You only need an entrepreneurial spirit and love for travel to become a Dream Vacations Franchise Owner. Prior experience or travel education is not required to be a Franchise Owner. Dream Vacations Franchise provides you with all the necessary support and training to get started, giving you the resources to help you grow your business and help to set you up for success. As an independent franchise owner, we can assist you in recruiting a Dream Vacations travel agent (known as Advisors) to work for your franchise. This means your franchise will be operate as a host travel agency and have its own independent contractors. Advisors help grow your business and allow you to reach its full potential.

If you have a passion for travel and an entrepreneurial spirit, becoming a Dream Vacations Franchise Owner may be your next calling! Become your own boss and begin your thrilling career as a travel agent by signing up for our free webinar. Get started by filling out this form or give us a call at 800-892-3928.

Share this Post

Dream Vacations is an Award-Winning Travel Franchise

Interested in starting your own home-based travel agency? Discover how with our 45-minute Webinar.

Register for Free Webinar

Starting a Travel Company: Franchise vs. Host Agency Comparison

Initiating a travel agency enterprise can be a thrilling endeavor, but it can also be overwhelming when deciding which path to take. Two popular options are to become a franchise or a host agency. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, so it's important to weigh them carefully before making a decision.

What Is a Franchise?

A franchise is a business model where the franchisee (you) pays a franchise fee and ongoing royalties to the franchisor (the company) in exchange for the right to use their name, brand, and business model. The franchisor provides training, support, and a proven system, while the franchisee is responsible for running the business.

Benefits of Owning a Franchise

Owning a franchise has significant benefits, such as acquiring a tested and successful business structure. This includes having an established brand, access to promotional resources, and the ability to connect with other franchise owners for guidance and assistance.

Another advantage is that the franchisor will provide training and ongoing support, which can be especially helpful if you are new to the travel industry. You can also benefit from their purchasing power, which may result in lower costs for supplies and equipment.

Downsides of Owning a Franchise

The main disadvantage of owning a franchise is having less flexibility and control over your business. You will be required to adhere to the franchisor's policies and procedures and may have to buy supplies and equipment from approved vendors.

You will also be required to pay ongoing royalties and fees, which can eat into your profits. Additionally, the franchisor may restrict where you can operate and may require you to meet specific performance standards.

What Is a Host Agency?

A host agency is a type of travel agency that provides support and resources to independent travel agents. As a host agency, you can operate your own business under your own name while benefiting from the support and resources of the host agency.

Advantages of Joining a Host Agency

Joining a host agency offers a significant benefit, as it allows you to run your business using your unique brand name. You will have more control and flexibility over your business and can set your own policies and procedures.

Secondly, you can benefit from the resources and support the host agency provides. This can include access to booking platforms, marketing materials, and training and support from experienced travel agents.

Becoming a member of a host agency may be a more economical choice compared to establishing your travel agency from the ground up. You will not have to invest in expensive equipment or marketing materials, and you will not have to pay for ongoing royalties and fees.

Disadvantages of Joining a Host Agency

A primary drawback of partnering with a host agency is the reduced ability to manage your enterprise. You will be required to adhere to the policies and procedures set by the host agency, and you may have to use their booking platform and other resources.

Aside from that, you may be required to pay a fee to join the host agency, as well as ongoing fees for their services. These charges can reduce your earnings and potentially hinder the expansion of your business.

Making a Decision

When deciding whether to become a franchisee or join a host agency, it's important to consider your goals, budget, and experience in the travel industry. If you are new to the industry and want the support and training a franchisor provides, a franchise may be the best option for you.

Conversely, if you are more experienced, want more control over your business, or are looking for a more cost-effective option, joining a host agency may be the best choice. Whichever path you pick, carefully research your options and select a reliable company that has a demonstrated history of accomplishments.

Starting a travel agency company can be a rewarding and lucrative venture. Whether you become a franchisee or join a host agency, it's essential to carefully consider your options and choose the right path for you. With the proper support and resources, you can build a successful travel agency business and help your clients create unforgettable travel experiences.

Join Gateway Travel today and take your travel business to the next level. As an agent-led and agent-minded company, we provide a supportive atmosphere for you to grow your business.

With industry-leading technology, marketing tools, and education, we give you the tools you need for optimum growth. Contact us and become a host travel agency today!

Recent Posts

Explore the World and Boost Your Skills: Gateway Travel's Guide for Aspiring Travel Agents

Climbing the Ladder of Success with Our Top Six Tips for Travel Agents

Welcome to Your Pathway towards Professional Excellence with Recognized Certifications for Travel Agents

Comentários

Popular Countries:

United States

All Countries:

• Best Food Franchises Bakery & Café/Deli Beverage Franchises Candy Franchises Fast Food Franchises Ice Cream & Yogurt Franchises Pizza Franchises Restaurant Franchises Vitamin & Nutrition Franchises More
• Best Real Estate Franchises Assisted Living Franchises Handy Man Franchises Home Improvement Franchises Home Maintenance Franchises Lawn and Garden Franchises Pressure Washing Franchises Real Estate Franchises More
• Best Service Franchises Accounting & Financial Franchises Advertising & Marketing Franchises Automotive Franchises Building & Construction Franchises Business Consulting Franchises Hospitality - Hotel Franchises Pest Control Franchises Sports & Fitness Franchises More
• Other Franchises Beauty & Fashion Franchises Children's Franchises Clothing & Shoes Franchises Education Franchises Printing and Copying Franchises Staffing Franchises Travel Franchises More
• Franchise Accountants Franchise Attorneys Franchise Brokers Franchise Computer Software Franchise Consultants Franchise Direct Mail Franchise Merchant Services More
• Franchise International Development Franchise Marketing Agencies Franchise PPC Services Franchise PR Agencies Franchise SEO Services Franchise Social Media Services Franchise Website Development Services More
• Franchise Advertising Services Franchise Construction Franchise Convention Planning Franchise Financial Services Franchise Training Franchise Telecommunications Franchise Real Estate Services More
•   Franchise Advertising Services (85) Franchise Financial Services (84) Franchise Construction (9) Franchise Convention Planning (1) Franchise Training Franchise Telecommunications  

If you are interested in having your company included on our rankings, click here .

• Travel Franchises Companies

LAST UPDATED: March 1, 2024

Travel Franchises Companies in United States (61)

• Automotive Franchises
• Beauty & Fashion Franchises
• Children's Franchises
• Home Based Franchises
• Internet & Technology Franchises
• Hospitality - Hotel Franchises
• Franchise Advertising Services
• Franchise Financial Services
• Business Service Franchises
• Janitorial Franchises
• Business Consulting Franchises
• Entertainment Franchises
• Sports & Fitness Franchises
• Healthcare & Senior Care Franchises
• Pet Franchises
• Photography Franchises
• Printing and Copying Franchises
• Real Estate Franchises
• Fast Food Franchises
• Retail Franchises
• Overall Franchises
• Attorney Franchises
• Home Maintenance Service Franchises
• Services General Franchises
• Building & Construction Franchises
• Education Franchises
• Travel Franchises
• Home Improvement Franchises
• Franchise Accountants
• Franchise Attorneys
• Franchise Brokers
• Franchise Consultants
• Telecommunications
• Beverage Franchises
• Assisted Living Franchises
• Clothing & Shoes Franchises
• Convenience Store Franchises
• Green & Eco Friendly Franchises
• Event Planning Franchises
• Baked Goods Franchises
• Candy Franchises
• Ice Cream, Yogurt & Smoothie Franchises
• Pizza Franchises
• International Food Franchises
• Restaurant Franchises
• Hair Salon Franchises
• Hospitality - Motel Franchises
• Laundry & Dry Cleaning Franchises
• Maid Franchises
• Mail Service Franchises
• Oil Change Franchises
• Spa Franchises
• Pest Control Franchises
• Pressure Washing Franchises
• Staffing Franchises
• Cleaning & Sanitation Franchises
• Handy Man Franchises
• Lawn and Garden Franchises
• Vitamin & Nutrition Franchises
• Franchise PR Agencies
• Franchise Marketing Agencies
• Franchise Merchant Services
• Franchise International Development
• Franchise Computer Software
• Franchise Construction
• Franchise Direct Mail
• Franchise Manuals & Legal Compliance
• Franchise-Uniforms
• Bakery & Café/Deli
• Fast Casual Restaurants Franchises
• Franchise SEO Services
• Franchise PPC Services
• Franchise Social Media Services
• Franchise Website Development Services
• Digital Marketing
• Web Development
• Reputation Management
• Pay Per Click Management
• Search Engine Optimization
• Mobile App Development
• Franchise Construction Management
• Franchise Convention Planning
• Franchise Training
• Franchise Telecommunications
• Franchise Real Estate Services
• Massage Franchises

Industry Focus

• Advertising & marketing
• Arts, entertainment & music
• Business Services
• Consumer products & services

Min. Project Size

Avg. hrly rate.

• $100 - $149
• $150 - $199
• $200 - $300
• 1,000 - 9,999

Year Founded

Dent doctor.

11301 W Markham | Little Rock- Arkansas- 72211 | 800-946-3368

Revenue: $1 million - $5 million | Year Founded: 1986 | Firm Size: 10 - 50

Core Services: Automotive Franchises , Travel Franchises

Dent Doctor is your low cost, same-day solution to keeping your vehicle looking like new, saving you $100's compared to conventional repairs. Dent Doctor is the industry pioneer and leader in Paint-Free Dent Repair (PDR) since 1996, now offers entreprenurs a true ground-floor opportunity to dominate the local market for retail automotive appearance services. Dent Doctor provides the national brand... View Profile

• Send Message
• Write a Review

2894 West Bay Drive | Belleair Bluffs- Florida- 33770 | 727-518-7100

Revenue: $1 million - $5 million | Year Founded: 2004 | Firm Size: 10 - 50

Core Services: Travel Franchises , Healthcare & Senior Care Franchises

Vitek’s BBQ

Revenue: Unknown | Year Founded: 1915 | Firm Size: -

Core Services: Travel Franchises , Fast Food Franchises

100 Boul De Mortagne | Boucherville- Quebec- J4B 5M7 | 514-739-6336

Revenue: $10 million - $50 million | Year Founded: 1981 | Firm Size: 250 - 500

carmellimo.com

2642 Broadway | New York- New York- 10025 | 866-666-6666

Revenue: Est. $1 million | Year Founded: 1978 | Firm Size: 1 - 10

Core Services: Services General Franchises

Book your dream Luxury Limo in NYC for all kinds of rides. Rides for Business, Proms, Weddings, Birthday Parties, Sporting Events, Theaters, Parties and Any special occasions. You can hire carmel at any time. With high-quality features of top-notch professional drivers, high-quality cars, the user-friendly mobile app now for safe & secure riding, on-time pick-up & drop. Quick booking with insta... View Profile

Airnetz Aviation Pvt Ltd

228 Park Avenue S- New York | Ny- New York- 10003 | 608-554-0461

Revenue: $5 million - $10 million | Year Founded: 2008 | Firm Size: 10 - 50

Core Services: Travel Franchises

Airnetz.com has added a new dimension to Global Business and Leisure Aviation Industry with innovation in distribution channels and service offerings. Premium Business travel is one of the upcoming travel destinations and our plan is to make this even more enjoyable with the chartered private jets and helicopters.  We continually strive to bring world class experience to our customers. All our man... View Profile

Aloette Cosmetics, Inc.

3715 Northside Parkway- Northwest Building 200- Suite 200 | Atlanta- Georgia- 30327 | 800-256-3883

Revenue: $500 million - $1 billion | Year Founded: - | Firm Size: 5,000 - 10,000

"Be the first one to review Aloette Cosmetics, Inc."  

Betsy's Bricks

1654 King St.- # 13 | United States- 06082 | 800-758-5044

Revenue: $250,000 - $1 million | Year Founded: 2011 | Firm Size: 12

Core Services: Home Maintenance Service Franchises , Travel Franchises

Betsy's Bricks is offering a unique franchise opportunity for entrepreneurs who have an interest in the rapidly growing green energy market and the local farming community. Betsy's Bricks, engineered and fully tested a patent-pending process which converts cow and horse waste into eco-friendly, odor-free heating pellets that can be burned safely to heat homes with traditional pellet stoves. This u... View Profile

"Be the first one to review Betsy's Bricks"  

Budget Brake & Muffler Distributors Ltd

Revenue: Unknown | Year Founded: - | Firm Size: -

"Be the first one to review Budget Brake & Muffler Distributors Ltd"  

Charlwood International

1199 W. Pender St.- # 900 | Vancouver- Washington- 621 | 604-718-2600

Revenue: Unknown | Year Founded: 1975 | Firm Size: -

"Be the first one to review Charlwood International"  

Page 1 of 7

• Beauty & Fashion Franchises
• Children's Franchises
• More Rankings
• Register Your Company
• Apply For Rankings
• Update Your Profile
• Download Badges
• Company FAQs
• View Rankings
• Leave A Review
• Delete My Review
• Evaluation Methodology
• Suggest A Feature
• Report Error

Phone: 800-874-2458 Contact Us

Reach us from wherever you are. Get the latest updates fast.

Get updates and follow us on Facebook

Remain connected with us on urgent updates

Access our company profile page on LinkedIn

Copyright 2024 © franchiserankings.com . Use of this website constitutes acceptance of Terms & Conditions | Privacy Policy | Legal Disclosure

8/10 buyers choose a recommended vendor. Be a part of our list and close more business.

• Become a recommended vendor.
• Generate more leads.
• Increase your conversions.
• Control your public image.

Learn more about your presence on franchiserankings.com. Get answers to common questions.

• Learn how to sign up
• Access our reviews policies
• Uncover our ranking methodology
• Find out more about marketing options

Ensure your potential customers see the most recent and accurate data about your company.

• Manage your brand attributes
• Generate and respond to reviews
• Discover marketing opportunities
• Manage billing & account settings

We rely on user reviews and ratings in order to help our buyers. We take reviews that are attached to a LinkedIn account much more seriously and consider them as legitimate user reviews.

Be Your Own Boss With An Expedia Travel Agency Franchise

Own a piece of the most powerful brand in travel, expedia cruises – a top rated travel franchise.

At Expedia Cruises, we are a full-service leisure travel agency anchored by our deeply passionate expertise for air, land, and sea vacations. Backed by the most powerful travel brand in the world – Expedia – we’ve thoroughly integrated their massive brand presence, state-of-the-art technology, unrivaled marketing, and distinguished supplier relationships to become Expedia’s cruise experts.

Our omnichannel retail model provides customers with a seamless booking experience from start to finish while providing our retail centers with additional channels for lead generation. Not only do our franchisees receive leads from their Expediacruises.com website, Center walk-ins, and a robust marketing program, they also benefit from ALL cruise inquiries that come in from Expedia.com and Expedia.ca, within their market territory.

Plus, you will be able to leverage billions of dollars in buying power with Expedia to offer a competitive range of products, while earning the some of the highest commissions in the industry from every cruise and land supplier! With Expedia, we are powered by one of the top brands in travel.

Customers Book When, Where, and How They Want!

Our continued integration with Expedia has enabled us to capture new shoppers and turn them into long-term customers, while at the same time giving our customers an exceptional shopping experience with the ability to book when, where, and how they choose. With just 10% of cruises being sold through an online travel agency, there is tremendous opportunity to tap into the remaining 90% of cruisers who value the expertise and knowledge of a cruise. Plus, cruises are just the beginning! Each Expedia Cruises location helps customers book All-Inclusive Resorts, Coach & Rail Tours, Vacation Packages, Homes & Villas, Insurance, Flights, Hotels, and Activities. Our brick-and-mortar travel agencies are more relevant than ever in driving awareness in local communities and positioning themselves as a team of trusted experts, ready and able to offer expert advice to new and existing Expedia customers.

Our Competitive Advantage

Our travel franchise network of 35+ years is rapidly expanding across North America, with over 260 independently owned retail locations currently open or under development. With a proven business model that is affordable and extremely scalable, our travel franchise owners are bringing the Expedia brand, expert advice, outstanding value, and a seamless booking experience to travelers in their communities.

Start your franchising journey to learn more about our differentiators, and how you can own the only brick-and-mortar model within the Expedia brand.

Request Franchise Information

Fill out this form to have one of our Franchise Advisors contact you.

• FIRST NAME *
• LAST NAME *
• STATE OR PROVINCE * Select here… Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware District of Columbia Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Alberta British Columbia Manitoba New Brunswick Newfoundland & Labrador Northwest Territories Nova Scotia Nunavut Ontario Prince Edward Island Quebec Saskatchewan Yukon
• COUNTRY * Select here… United States Canada
• Please contact me via *text

10 Best Travel and Tourism Franchises [Cost, Fees]

By: Author Tony Martins Ajaero

Do you want to start a tourism business by buying a franchise? If YES, here are 10 best tourism franchise opportunities for sale and their cost. Tourism is a very big industry in the United States. People travel for various reasons and chief among them is to relive the pressures of the work year. With convenient online tourism destination sites, people now find it easy to make all their travel arrangements at the click of a mouse.

People like to vacation, and tourism businesses help make these dreams a reality by simplifying the often difficult task of planning a trip, whether for solo travelers, group travel, family travel, or more. Tourism agencies can help tourists plan entire vacations and find amazing deals on accommodations and activities in the process thus making the whole process easy for would-be tourists.

If you want to carve a niche in the tourism industry, we have listed out a few of these businesses to help you out.

Travel & Tourism Franchise Opportunities

A. Hotel Franchises

B. Travel & Tour Agency Franchises

C. Amusement Park Franchises

D. Water Park Franchises

10 Best Travel & Tourism Franchise Opportunities for Sale and Their Cost

Dream vacations/cruiseone.

Founded in 1992, Dream Vacations is the leading home-based travel and tourism franchise in the United States. As part of World Travel Holdings (WTH), they have maintained the position as the world’s largest seller of cruise vacations.

Beyond their growing clientele base, they have mastered the art of unrivaled buying power, innovative marketing programs, and dedicated franchisee support. Undoubtedly, their network of 1300+ home-based travel franchise owners stand out above the rest!

Dream Vacations franchisees sell travel packages, including travel protection, shore excursions, hotels and tours to individuals, couples, families, businesses and groups. The company offers in-house financing to cover only the franchise fee, so franchisees are required to seek financing for other requirements.

Financial Requirements

• Initial Investment – $3,245 – $21,850
• Initial Franchise Fee – $495 – $9,800
• Ongoing Royalty Fee – 1.5-3%

Veteran Incentives – 20% off franchise fee; training fee waived for business partner; training fee waived for first veteran/military spouse associate, reduced by 50% for additional associates; marketing assets.

Expedia Cruiseshipcenters

Expedia CruiseShipCenters launched in 1987 and it is a leading seller of cruise travel in North America. Their travel agency franchise is rapidly expanding, with over 290 locations open or under development.

The growth is driven by three overarching factors: their proven business model is affordable to start and extremely scalable, their focus on cruise vacations makes them a trusted resource among cruise customers who overwhelmingly prefer to book with a travel/tourism agent, and the cruise industry is growing quickly.

In addition to cruises, Expedia CruiseShipCenters franchisees sell vacation packages, tours, excursions, travel insurance and more. The company has been franchising since 1987 and is part of the Expedia Inc. family of brands. The comapny has relationships with third-party sources which offer financing to cover franchise fee, startup costs, equipment, inventory, accounts receivable and payroll.

• Initial Investment – $165,495 – $281,990
• Net-worth Requirement – $300,000
• Liquid Cash Requirement – $100,000
• Initial Franchise Fee – $39,000 – $39,000
• Ongoing Royalty Fee – 9%
• Ad Royalty Fee – $600/mo.
• Veteran Incentives – 15% off franchise fee

Cruise Planners

Cruise Planners, an American Express Travel Services Representative, is a home-based travel agent network. Cruise Planners travel agents work from home selling full-service travel packages, including cruises, land-based vacations, travel insurance, car rentals and more.

Cruise Planners has been named the nation’s number one home-based travel franchise by Entrepreneur magazine for 16 straight years. Their unmatched training, marketing, technology and individualized coaching allow franchisees to work from anywhere, be your own boss, and travel the world.

Cruise Planners offers in-house financing to cover just the franchise fee, so franchisees are required to seek financing for other requirements.

• Initial Investment – $2,295 – $23,367
• Initial Franchise Fee – $695 – $10,995
• Ongoing Royalty Fee – 3%
• Liquid Capital Required: $10,995
• Total Investment: $2,295 – $23,617

Veteran Incentives – 28% off franchise fee, free training for co-owner/associate, $250 marketing credit, $60 design credit, 3 months free technology access, free software license, 1 year free errors & omissions insurance.

Cruise Holidays

Cruise Holidays, a cruise travel franchise, was founded in 1984. It is part of Travel Leaders Group, a travel services parent company comprised of multiple operating subsidiaries. Headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Cruise Holidays is made up of retail locations as well as home-based franchise owners concentrated in the United States and Canada.

Cruise Holidays is a highly-respected travel franchise company with over 200 locations internationally. Travel is a booming industry with strong earnings potential, and franchisees can set their own hours and have the added benefit of discounted or free cruise and hotel stays. Cruise Holidays offers a national marketing program and both home-based and retail models are available.

Cruise Holidays has relationships with third-party sources which offer financing to cover just franchise fee and startup costs, so franchisees are required to seek financing elsewhere for other requirements.

• Initial Investment – $10,350 – $160,350
• Net-worth Requirement – $15,000
• Liquid Cash Requirement – $10,350
• Initial Franchise Fee – $9,500 – $30,000
• Ongoing Royalty Fee – Varies
• Veteran Incentives – 10% off franchise fee

All About Honeymoons

All About Honeymoons is a home-based travel agency franchise that provides and ensures your dream honeymoon destination meets your social, recreational and environmental desires. All About Honeymoons is an award winning travel company that specializes in creating romantic vacations for newlywed couples.

Rather than pitching packages, All About Honeymoons works with couples to plan a personalized, magical honeymoon that couples will remember for the rest of their lives. With travel connections, All About Honeymoons is also able to negotiate lower prices for the couple so honeymooners can have a great experience without breaking the bank.

The business also caters to couples who want to hold a destination wedding. As it can be difficult to plan a wedding so far from home, All About Honeymoons can accept the responsibility for ensuring that destination weddings go off smoothly.

They continually expand their reach to more exotic, less traveled destinations. They believe that personalized service from someone that you can speak with and even meet in person is the ideal way to plan romance travel, especially when it involves a honeymoon trip or all inclusive honeymoon package.

• Liquid capital required – $30,000
• Net worth required – $100,000
• Investment – $30,000 – $75,000
• Franchise fee – $10,000

Discovery Map International (DMI)

Discovery Map International is the country’s leading provider of curated guides to top tourist destinations, cities and towns throughout North America. The distinctively colorful, hand-drawn maps are a favorite of travelers for navigating local dining, attractions, businesses, cultural experiences, ski destinations – and even the best locations to take selfies.

Discovery Maps can be found in local hotels, restaurants, shops, visitor information centers and other participating venues.

Discovery Map International began as Resort Maps in 1977. Its colorful, hand-drawn maps became such a favorite of travelers for navigating local dining, attractions, businesses, cultural experiences and ski destinations that tourists frequently made the comment, “I wish we had these in our town.”

So Resort Maps began franchising in 1992. In 2005, current CEO Peter Hans purchased the company. In 2011, Resort Maps merged with Discovery Map International. The company retained the Discovery Map International name. Discovery Map Int’l. Inc. has relationships with third-party sources which offer financing to cover just franchise fee, so franchisees are required to seek financing elsewhere for other requirements.

• Initial Investment – $35,250 – $44,950
• Initial Franchise Fee – $25,000 – $25,000
• Ongoing Royalty Fee – 10%
• Veteran Incentives – 20% off franchise fee

Hospitality International, Inc.

Hospitality International represents five hotel brands: Red Carpet Inn, an economy to mid-level hotel chain started in 1968; Passport Inn, a budget and economy hotel chain with generally small properties; Scottish Inns, an economy, limited-service chain started in 1967; Master Hosts Inns, a mid- to upper-middle hotel chain with locations primarily in resort or destination areas; and Downtowner Inns, an economy to upper-economy hotel chain with locations primarily in city centers or downtown areas.

Hospitality International, Inc. offers franchising opportunities with five nationally recognized hotel brands in the economy to mid-level markets for existing hotels and motels. Each of their brands is supported by the same corporate staff and they share the same reservations and marketing systems.

• Initial Investment – $133,600 – $2,602,000
• Initial Franchise Fee – $5,000 – $15,000
• Ongoing Royalty Fee – $35/room/mo.

iTrip Vacations

iTrip Vacations is a web-based vacation rental and property management company that is revolutionizing the way guests book and use vacation homes. With leading technologies and platforms for franchisees, iTrip’s goal is to become one of the most trusted brands in the vacation rental industry.

iTrip® originally started because the company’s founders had a need for their own vacation rentals and could not find an adequate solution in the marketplace. Focusing on a single territory, they have developed and are operating a multi-million dollar business in Panama City, FL. This territory allows them to continually test and perfect new innovative strategies that when successful, are ultimately shared system wide.

• Liquid capital required – $125,000
• Net worth required – $300,000
• Investment – $123,400 – $152,700
• Franchise fee – $40,000

Results Travel

Results! Travel is part of the Travel Leaders Franchise Group, which also franchises Travel Leaders. Existing travel agencies can become franchisees of Results! and gain access to the company’s resources, suppliers, training and technology while maintaining their own business name.

Results! Travel presents investors with a means to achieve greater revenue for their sales. The company gives franchisees the chance to join other agencies without requiring a multi-year commitment or huge cost to join, without requiring them to change their name or lose their unique identity.

Results! Travel offers their businesses the chance to override agreements with carriers who carry over half of the U.S. air traffic; override on car rentals; lucrative commission structures with tour companies and cruise lines; and a hotel program with preferred rates and last-room availability at major hotel groups.

• Initial Investment – $25 – $10,400
• Initial Franchise Fee – $1,500
• Ongoing Royalty Fee – to $300/yr.

UNIGLOBE Travel

UNIGLOBE Travel is a global network of travel agencies that focuses on servicing the needs of small to mid-size corporate clients and providing leisure services to those same travelers. By harnessing leading industry technologies, they combine the best of the automation with the highest levels of personalized service. The company has agencies in over 50 countries worldwide to support the global needs of their SME clients.

UniGlobe Travel is a travel-agency franchisor designed to handle the needs of both the corporate and leisure client. The company franchisees benefit from money-saving automation agreements, exclusive territories, and top-notch incentive commission programs with major airline, hotel, car rental, tour and cruise-line companies in the $300 billion travel market.

• Liquid capital required – $20,000
• Net worth required – $60,000
• Investment – $46,600 – $63,500
• Franchise fee – $2,000

Related Posts:

• 8 Best Travel Agency Franchises [Cost, Fees]
• 14 Best Indoor Go Kart Franchises [Cost, Fees]
• How Much Does It Cost to Open Days Inn By WindHam Franchise?
• How Much Do Cruise Planners Franchise Owners Make?
• How to Open Expedia Cruises Franchise [Cost, Fees, Requirements]

• Franchise Ratings in India

TOP 8 Travel Franchises in India for 2023

After a setback caused by the pandemic, travel franchises are expected to gain traction in 2022. India has several flagmans on the market that have been popular for decades. They show constant stability and reliability for investments. This year they still remain on the top of the travel franchise list. One of the best entertainments humanity has invented is travelling. It helps relax and learn new knowledge. India is one of the most attractive destinations for tourists as it has an interesting culture, amazing nature and favourable climate. Owning a travel agency is not only profitable but also tremendously engaging. Travel franchise segment offers various kinds of businesses including online travel agency, rental services, tour operator services and many others. Looking for the travel franchise to buy? Scroll through the TOP 8 Travel Franchises in India to find the one which matches your requirements.

Here are the top 8 travel franchises in india for consideration in 2022

Thomas cook.

Founded in: 1841 Franchising since: 2009 Franchise units: 40 Initial investment: INR 5 lakhs - 15 lakhs

Thomas Cook Group plc is a British global travel company. Thomas Cook (India) Ltd presently operates in over 72 cities across almost 180 locations in the country with more than 40 Gold Circle partners (franchisees) across India. To keep its franchisee partners engaged and motivated and foster an environment of exceptional performance, Thomas Cook India offers special incentives via exclusive programmes such as the “Book & Win” scheme with awards including luxury cars and all paid for international tours, an annual Trade Partner Event for its top performers onboard a flagship product of Thomas Cook India eg an 18 day USA holidays with a cruise!

Happy Miles

Established in: 2008 Franchising since: 2009 Franchise units: 20 - 40 Initial investment: INR 5 lakhs - 10 lakhs

Happymiles is a travel company, that merges travel and education to curate travel educational trips to unique destinations with students across schools and colleges in India. Hapymiles offers a low investment and high returns opportunity for franchisee, in one of the largest service industries in India (travel & tourism) and is expected to constantly grow year after year.

Founded in: 2006 Franchising since: 2008 Franchise units: 512 Initial investment: INR 0.1 lakhs - INR 0.5 lakhs

EaseMyTrip, India's leading online IATA accredited travel company which aimed to offer a range of best-value products and services along with cutting-edge technology and dedicated round-the-clock customer support. EaseMyTrip is looking for more expansion in near future through our unique travel franchise concept. The company is planning to open franchises in tier-2 and tier-3 cities of India to expand their business.

Akbar Tours & Travels

Founded in: 1978 Franchising since: 2006 Franchise units: 100 Initial investment: INR 5 lakhs - 10 lakhs

Akbar travel is India's largest travel company providing best solutions to ease travel for customers, not only India but International as well. Flight booking became easier with AkbarTravels Travel portal. Akbar Travels franchise is a major player in travel industry and provides a great opportunity to start your own business.

Founded in: 2002 Franchising since: 2017 Franchise units: 20 - 50 Initial investment: INR 2 lakhs - 5 lakhs

Yatra is a leading online travel company in India and committed to it’s mission of “creating happy travelers.” Yatra plans to expand their franchise outlets throughout the country, focusing towards southern & western India. This presents a unique business opportunity for entrepreneurs who wish to enter the tour and travel industry.

Founded in: 2005 Franchising since: 2008 Franchise units: 20 - 50 Initial investment: INR 5 lakhs - 10 lakhs

Make My Trip is the pioneer of online travel in the country. The company offers a wide variety of travel and holiday related solutions to customers. In India, the total cost to start Make My Trip franchise in India ranges from 5 to 10 lakhs while in city like Delhi and Mumbai it is around 15 to 16 lakhs.

Founded in: 1949 Franchising since: 1997 Franchise units: 100 Initial investment: INR 11 lakhs - 34 lakhs Royalty Fees: 20%

SOTC India's Leading Tour operator SOTC is Kuoni India's key outbound travel brand. SOTC, India's largest outbound tour operator was acquired by Kuoni Travels World's leading premium Tour Operator in the year 1996 and is a leader in all segments, namely Escorted Tours, Free Individual Travel, Special Interest Tours and Domestic Holidays amongst others. Redefining the new ways to serve customer better & to capture the growing business potential, SOTC plans expansion of retail business through our business partners.

Cox & Kings

Founded in: 1758 Franchising since: 2009 Franchise units: 150 Initial investment: INR 5 lakhs - 10 lakhs Royalty Fees: 0%

Cox & Kings Ltd., set up in 1758, is one of the longest established travel companies. Headquartered in India and the UK, the holiday and education travel group has subsidiaries in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, Netherlands, the United Arab Emirates, Japan, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand. The company helps set up the franchise and travel agents work on a management fee.

To summarize, we can say any of the listed above travel franchises is worth buying. But there is a lot to consider while choosing the best one for you. Pay attention to the reputation of the brand, what training and support are offered, check if the other franchisees are successful. But the main thing you need to do is to align your budget with investment requirements of the brand. In order to ease the challenge, we have made the comparison flowchart of the best travel franchises in India for you. It shows the minimum estimated initial investment and initial franchise fee of each brand. By using it, you can figure out the difference in financial requirements for each franchise, and decide which one fits you the most.

View all Travel Franchises

• Like the site? Share with your friends!

Cookies on Companies House services

We use some essential cookies to make our services work.

We'd also like to use analytics cookies so we can understand how you use our services and to make improvements.

You've accepted analytics cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You've rejected analytics cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

We use cookies to make our services work and collect analytics information. To accept or reject analytics cookies, turn on JavaScript in your browser settings and reload this page.

Please press ENTER to search

THE TRAVEL CHAPTER LIMITED

Company number 02431506

• Company Overview for THE TRAVEL CHAPTER LIMITED (02431506)
• Filing history for THE TRAVEL CHAPTER LIMITED (02431506)
• People for THE TRAVEL CHAPTER LIMITED (02431506)
• Charges for THE TRAVEL CHAPTER LIMITED (02431506)
• More for THE TRAVEL CHAPTER LIMITED (02431506)

Next accounts made up to 31 October 2023 due by 31 July 2024

Last accounts made up to 31 October 2022

Confirmation statement

Next statement date 15 August 2024 due by 29 August 2024

Last statement dated 15 August 2023

Nature of business (SIC)

• 79110 - Travel agency activities

Previous company names

In break from Tennessee Senate, House franchise tax bill would require public disclosure

A new House version of a costly plan to change the Tennessee's franchise tax system would require the state to publicly list the businesses receiving refunds, an effort to inject some transparency into a process muddied by state officials' refusal to release records justifying the overhaul.

House Majority Leader William Lamberth, R-Portland, filed the amendment to HB 1893 , which received first passage out of a House subcommittee on Wednesday. The House version contains significant differences from the Senate's $1.9 billion plan, which upper chamber Republicans passed last week.

The House version would cost around $800 million, which Lamberth called "significant savings" for the state, split between a $400 million cost in the upcoming fiscal year and around $400 million in subsequent years. Companies who take a rebate from the state would also have to waive their right to sue over the franchise tax in the future, as lawmakers have argued they're pushing this legislation under the spectre of a potential lawsuit.

The franchise tax effort would alter the calculation the state uses to determine business franchise tax, eliminating a property tax calculation, which will cost the state $400 million in revenue beginning this year. The Senate version allows businesses to claim up to three years of tax rebates for previous franchise tax bills, while the House version only covers one year.

Lamberth's version would also create a specific carve-out to existing tax privacy law, which requires confidentiality for state tax information, to allow the state to reveal who is receiving a refund and how much they're getting.

"If a company is asking for a rebate, and that's money they're getting from the General Fund, then taxpayers should know who and how much," Lamberth said.

Senate Republicans last week batted down an amendment from Sen. Heidi Campbell, D-Nashville, to disclose the businesses that benefit from a refund, arguing it would contradict state law requiring tax refund confidentiality. Campbell's amendment sought to make public any "record, document, or other information pertaining to a refund of franchise tax."

Lamberth said publishing the name and dollar amount could satisfy transparency concerns while keeping broader tax records and documentation private.

The House amendment would also require a company to use any Tennessee economic and development credits to "offset and reduce" their franchise tax refund.

The franchise tax break sailed through the Senate last week , where 16 of the 25 Republican senators present declared a Rule 13 personal interest before voting in favor of the bill. One Democrat, who voted against the bill, also declared a personal interest.

Senate Finance Chair Bo Watson, R-Hixson, said Thursday "nobody likes this solution," a familiar refrain from Republicans who have backed the legislation and argued the tax refund, and its gigantic price tag, is the best path forward to avoid expensive litigation.

Yet, no lawsuit has been filed, and there is no court order demanding Tennessee make these changes. Instead, lawmakers have continually touted a letter from a national law firm as the basis for the legislation. 

State officials have refused to disclose the law firm's communication with the state, despite public records requests from The Tennessean. Officials have cited attorney-client privilege and the state law that makes tax information confidential. The Department of Revenue declined to release a redacted version of the law firm's letter.

Lamberth on Wednesday expressed skepticism about the legal issues with the existing franchise tax framework, but said he recognized Tennessee is "out of step" with most other states regarding the franchise tax policy."