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Planning a trip can be exciting, but it can also be overwhelming. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. This is where a travel agent can come in handy. But how do you know if you’re getting reliable advice? One important factor to consider is the true travel agent number. In this article, we’ll break down what this number is and why it matters.
What is the True Travel Agent Number?
The true travel agent number, also known as a TIDS number, is a unique identifier assigned to travel agents by the International Air Transport Association (IATA). This number is used to track bookings made by the travel agent, as well as to ensure that they are receiving proper commission for their sales.
In order to obtain a TIDS number, a travel agent must meet certain requirements, including having a certain level of sales volume and being registered with their local government or tourism authority.
Why is the True Travel Agent Number Important?
When booking travel through a travel agent, it’s important to ensure that they are legitimate and trustworthy. The TIDS number is one way to verify this. By checking the TIDS number of a travel agent, you can confirm that they are registered with IATA and authorized to sell travel.
Additionally, the TIDS number can help protect consumers from fraud. If a travel agent with a TIDS number engages in fraudulent activity, they can be held accountable by IATA and face consequences such as losing their TIDS number and being unable to sell travel in the future.
How Can You Check a Travel Agent’s True Travel Agent Number?
Checking a travel agent’s TIDS number is easy. Simply ask the travel agent for their TIDS number and verify it on IATA’s website. You can also use third-party websites such as AgentExperience or TravelResearchOnline to verify a travel agent’s TIDS number.
FAQs
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What does TIDS stand for? | TIDS stands for Travel Industry Designator Service. |
| Do all travel agents have a TIDS number? | No, not all travel agents have a TIDS number. It is only required for travel agents who sell air travel. |
| Can a travel agent lose their TIDS number? | Yes, a travel agent can lose their TIDS number if they engage in fraudulent activity or fail to meet the requirements set by IATA. |
| Is it safe to book travel through a travel agent with a TIDS number? | Generally, yes. A travel agent with a TIDS number is registered with IATA and authorized to sell travel, which can provide an added layer of protection for consumers. |
| Are there any other ways to verify a travel agent’s legitimacy? | Yes, you can also check if the travel agent is a member of a professional organization such as the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) or the Association of British Travel Agents (ABTA). |
Conclusion
The true travel agent number is an important factor to consider when booking travel through a travel agent. By verifying a travel agent’s TIDS number, you can ensure that they are legitimate and authorized to sell travel. This can provide peace of mind and help protect you from fraud.