How do I obtain a travel agent rate for my personal booking?
First, please contact the vendor directly and ask about their travel agent rate policy. This policy will vary for each vendor. The vendor may require that you complete a specific training first, have your own IATA or CLIA card, or they may require a copy of Xstream's W9 and an email from our agency as proof/authorization that you work under our agency. Remember, each vendor/travel supplier has a different policy regarding agent discounts or incentives.
If the vendor requests a verification email or W9 from Xstream Travel, please submit a support ticket from your Xstream Agent Hub under the ticket category Travel Agent Support. Please provide to us the name and email address your agent authorization letter needs to be sent. We will also need the name of hotel/resort, address, your travel dates, hotel/resort phone, and reservation number if you already have it. Once your information is received we will send out the email per your request.
Can I use the agent rate on bookings for other people?
NO. This agent rate only applies to travel you will personally be on. When you arrive the vendor may request proof of your identity and credentials as a travel advisor (like CLIA or IATA card). If these credentials cannot be provided, they may choose to end your working relationship and nullify any bookings made that break their policies. It's important to reach out to the vendor and review their agent rate policies before booking.
Do I make commission on bookings made with an agent rate?
Generally, no. The agent rate is a discount for travel advisors either as a reward incentive or educational opportunity, and so is calculated to disclude the commission amount as part of the discount. Think of it like this: instead of getting a commission percentage after travel, you're getting it in full upfront to discount the rate of the reservation.