Latin Routes’ second agent academy in Peru saw 40 UK agents embark on an educational journey.
- The event featured a combination of hands-on training and a familiarisation trip across key Peruvian locations.
- Agents interacted with over 20 suppliers from the travel industry, enhancing their understanding of Latin American destinations.
- The academy aimed to build agents’ confidence in selling a diverse range of Latin American experiences.
- Participation was competitive, with over 200 agents applying for the limited spots available.
Latin Routes recently facilitated its second agent academy in Peru, hosting 40 agents from the United Kingdom. This initiative focused on offering comprehensive training and exposure to the distinctiveness of Latin American destinations. The intention behind the academy was to fortify agents’ abilities to market various experiences across this region. The inaugural academy took place in Brazil back in 2018, laying the groundwork for future educational programmes.
The five-day programme included a meticulously planned familiarisation trip that encompassed visits to Cusco, the Sacred Valley, and the iconic Machu Picchu. Complementing the field visits were two days devoted to intensive training in Lima, where agents expanded their knowledge about the cultural tapestry and tourism offerings of Latin American countries.
During the academy, participants engaged with over 20 suppliers, including cruise lines such as Silversea and Quark Expeditions, and hotel chains like Explora, Inkaterra, and Iberostar. These networking sessions allowed agents to cultivate valuable connections and gain insights, empowering them to offer tailored experiences to potential clients.
The opportunity to participate was highly sought after, as evidenced by the over 200 applications received. To secure a place, agents articulated their motivations and the impact they anticipated from attending the academy. This competitive process ensured that selected participants were highly motivated and eager to enhance their professional skills.
Gaynor Atherton, Head of Trade Sales at Latin Routes, expressed gratitude to all involved, highlighting the academy’s success in providing agents with an immersive experience crucial for understanding the region. Sally Ward, an agent from Baldwins Travel, noted the confidence boost gained from the training, while Donatella Valzasina of Silversea praised the event as a vital educational resource for travel advisors.
The Latin Routes Agent Academy has established itself as a pivotal resource for enhancing agents’ expertise in Latin American travel offerings.