How to Be Adventure Travel Specialist - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

Apr 3, 2020 / 6 Minutes Read / By Albert

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An Adventure Travel Specialist is someone who provides professional guidance and advice for those looking to go on an adventure trip. They are equipped with the necessary knowledge and experience to make sure that a traveler's journey is a safe, enjoyable, and memorable one. The specialist can help to plan, organize, and manage the details of a trip, from the initial research and planning stages to the actual execution of the journey.

By providing their expertise, an Adventure Travel Specialist can help to ensure that travelers have an unforgettable experience, free from any unnecessary surprises or risks. Furthermore, they can provide guidance on the best routes, attractions, and activities to experience, while offering suggestions on how to best budget and allocate travel funds.

Steps How to Become

Obtain a Bachelor's Degree. Most adventure travel specialists have a bachelor's degree in hospitality, business, or travel and tourism. This degree provides you with the necessary skills and knowledge to work effectively in the adventure travel industry.
Get Certified. Earning certification as an adventure travel specialist can be beneficial to your career. The Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA) offers a Certified Adventure Travel Professional program that requires you to pass an online exam and complete a practical work experience portfolio.
Pursue Work Experience. Many employers look for applicants with previous experience in the adventure travel industry. You can gain experience by volunteering at a local organization or working for an adventure travel company.
Develop Your Network. Building relationships with other adventure travel professionals is essential for success in the industry. Join professional organizations, attend conferences, and network with other professionals online.
Keep Up With Industry Trends. The adventure travel industry is constantly changing, so it is important to stay up to date on current trends. Read industry magazines and blogs, attend seminars, and participate in webinars to stay informed.

Traveling to exotic locations for adventure and exploration can be an incredible experience. However, it does require careful planning and preparation. Working with an experienced Adventure Travel Specialist can help ensure a smoother and successful journey.

These specialists are knowledgeable about the best destinations, routes, and activities for travelers, and can provide invaluable advice on how to best prepare for an unforgettable adventure. Furthermore, they can provide helpful information on local customs, cultures, and laws, so travelers can better understand their destination and have a more meaningful and enriching experience. With the help of an Adventure Travel Specialist, travelers can have peace of mind knowing they are prepared for the journey ahead.

You may want to check Adventure Film Maker, Adventure Camp Counselor, and Adventure Guide for alternative.

Job Description

Develop and implement adventure travel itineraries, including necessary ground and air transportation, accommodations, and activities.
Research and select destinations for adventure travel that meet the needs of travelers.
Establish relationships with tour operators, travel agents, and other vendors to secure the best deals and services for clients.
Monitor adventure travel trends and destinations to ensure the best customer experience.
Provide advice and guidance to travelers on safety, cultural awareness, and other issues related to adventure travel.
Monitor customer feedback to ensure customer satisfaction with their adventure travel experience.
Negotiate rates with vendors and providers to ensure the best value for travel expenses.
Follow up with customers post-trip to ensure customer satisfaction and determine areas for improvement.
Stay current on local laws, customs, and safety regulations to protect travelers from harm.
Assist travelers with visas, passports, and other travel documents as required.

Skills and Competencies to Have

Knowledge of various forms of adventure travel, such as trekking, mountain climbing, horseback riding, backpacking, and canoeing.
Understanding of geography, geology, and climate of various regions.
Ability to plan and organize trips in a safe and efficient manner.
Ability to effectively manage risks associated with adventure travel.
Knowledge of local cultures and customs.
Ability to effectively communicate and negotiate with potential tour operators, vendors, and other service providers.
Understanding of regulations and laws related to adventure travel, including health and safety requirements.
Outstanding customer service skills.
Excellent problem-solving skills.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with tight deadlines.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Knowledge of marketing strategies for adventure travel services.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Proficiency in computer software programs such as Microsoft Office and other travel-related software.

Being an Adventure Travel Specialist requires a wide range of skills, but the most important is the ability to expertly plan and organize complex itineraries. Being able to anticipate and plan for potential issues that may arise is an essential skill for any Adventure Travel Specialist. Along with this, they must have excellent communication skills to collaborate with both clients and suppliers.

Furthermore, extensive knowledge about the destination, including the local culture and language, is key for a successful experience. A well-rounded Adventure Travel Specialist must also be able to recognize the importance of safety and be able to provide emergency assistance if needed. Finally, having a passion for travel and exploration is essential for any Adventure Travel Specialist to deliver an unforgettable experience for their clients.

Adventure Photographer, Adventure Vehicle Technician, and Adventure Programmer are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

What experience do you have in the adventure travel industry?
What challenges have you faced when planning an adventure trip for a customer?
How do you handle customer service issues related to adventure travel?
What methods do you use to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in adventure travel?
How do you ensure that customers are provided with the best value for their money?
Describe a time you had to go above and beyond to ensure a customer was pleased with their adventure travel experience?
Are there any special safety considerations that must be taken into account when planning an adventure travel itinerary?
Are you familiar with the regulations and requirements of different countries when arranging international adventure travel?
How do you use technology to facilitate the adventure travel experience?
How do you balance customer expectations with their budget when designing a trip?

Common Tools in Industry

Adventure Planning Software. Allows travel specialists to easily plan and organize adventure trips, including creating itineraries, booking flights and accommodations, and managing expenses. (Example: TripIt Pro)
Group Management Software. Provides a centralized platform to manage and coordinate large groups of travelers. (Example: Trello)
Transportation Booking Platforms. Allows travel specialists to book flights, rental cars, and other transportation options online. (Example: Skyscanner)
Language Translators. Allows travel specialists to communicate with foreign-speaking customers or personnel. (Example: Google Translate)
Travel Insurance Platforms. Provides travel specialists with access to a variety of insurance policies for their clients. (Example: World Nomads)
Social Media Platforms. Provides a platform to promote adventure trips, engage with customers, and build relationships with potential customers. (Example: Facebook)
Safety and Security Software. Allows travel specialists to monitor safety alerts and communicate with travelers in case of an emergency. (Example: Smart Traveler App)
Customer Relationship Management (CRM) Software. Provides a platform to store customer information, manage customer interactions, and track customer feedback. (Example: Salesforce CRM)

Professional Organizations to Know

Adventure Travel Trade Association (ATTA)
American Society of Travel Agents (ASTA)
International Air Transport Association (IATA)
International Association for Medical Assistance to Travellers (IAMAT)
World Tourism Organization (UNWTO)
International Congress and Convention Association (ICCA)
Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA)
Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI)
Wilderness Medicine Society (WMS)
Specialty Travel Agents Network (STAN)

We also have Adventure Production Manager, Adventure Instructor, and Adventure Park Manager jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

Adventure Tourism. Adventure tourism is a type of tourism involving exploration or travel to remote, exotic, and possibly hostile areas. It may involve activities such as mountaineering, trekking, bungee jumping, mountain biking, and other outdoor activities.
Extreme Sports. Extreme sports are activities that involve a high degree of physical risk or danger. They often involve speed, height, and a high level of physical exertion. Examples include skydiving, base jumping, rock climbing, and snowboarding.
Wilderness. Wilderness is any natural area that is largely untouched by humans. It is characterized by its unspoiled nature and lack of development. Examples include national parks, nature reserves, and remote hiking trails.
Outfitter. An outfitter is a person or organization that provides equipment and supplies for outdoor activities, such as camping and hunting. They often provide guides and other services to help travelers plan their trips.
Tour Operator. A tour operator is a company that specializes in organizing and delivering packaged travel services to individuals or groups. They provide transportation, accommodation, meals, and other services according to predetermined itineraries.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does an Adventure Travel Specialist do?

An Adventure Travel Specialist helps people plan unique vacations that involve activities such as camping, hiking, and other outdoor activities. They provide advice on the best locations for clients, help them book accommodations and transportation, and arrange for any necessary equipment or guide services.

What qualifications are needed to become an Adventure Travel Specialist?

Generally, Adventure Travel Specialists need to have a degree in a related field such as tourism or hospitality, though some positions may only require a high school diploma. In addition, they should have knowledge of the areas they specialize in, as well as experience in arranging trips and excursions.

What kind of skills do Adventure Travel Specialists need?

Adventure Travel Specialists need excellent communication and interpersonal skills to deal with clients and vendors. They should also have the ability to think on their feet and anticipate any problems that may arise. Additionally, Adventure Travel Specialists should have strong organizational skills and the ability to multi-task effectively.

How much do Adventure Travel Specialists earn?

The salary of an Adventure Travel Specialist depends on their experience and location. According to PayScale, the average annual salary for an Adventure Travel Specialist in the United States is $42,938.

What type of companies hire Adventure Travel Specialists?

Adventure Travel Specialists are typically employed by travel agencies, tour companies, hotels, resorts, and other travel-related businesses. They may also work independently as freelance consultants.

Web Resources

AdventureEDU | Adventure Travel Trade Association www.adventuretravel.biz
Online Adventure Tourism Management Certificate | CSU Online www.online.colostate.edu
Adventure Tourism: Catering to the Thrill-Seeker Traveler hospitalityinsights.ehl.edu