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Credentials and specialties

• Certified Travel Associate

  From The Travel Institute, $599, for working advisors who want a recognized credential. Requires a year of experience or a proficiency test score of 80 percent or better.

• Certified Travel Counselor and Certified Travel Industry Executive

  The same body's advanced credentials, aimed at experienced advisors, managers and industry leaders.

• Verified Travel Advisor

  A credential from the American Society of Travel Advisors, the main trade association for the field.

• Supplier specialist programs

  Cruise lines and tourism boards run free courses that make you a recognized specialist in their product and usually pay better commission.