Trade Schools and Colleges Offering Travel Agent Courses
Choosing a Host Agency
Resources Provided by Host Agencies (Booking Systems, Marketing Support, Training)
Benefits of Working with a Host Agency
Examples of Host Agencies in Georgia
Building Your Career as a Travel Agent
Specializing in a Niche Market
Networking and Professional Development
Marketing Your Services Effectively
How to Become a Travel Agent in Georgia
Becoming a travel agent in Georgia can be a rewarding and exciting career path, especially given the state's thriving travel industry. With its rich heritage, diverse geography, and record-breaking tourism, Georgia offers ample opportunities for travel professionals to thrive.
To embark on this journey, it is crucial to understand the role of a travel agent. Travel agents plan and book travel for clients, handling everything from flights and accommodations to organizing activities and excursions. This role requires a deep understanding of the travel industry, strong organizational skills, and the ability to tailor travel plans to meet clients' unique needs and preferences.
In Georgia, there are no state mandates requiring a license or certification to become a travel agent. However, having certifications and completing travel agent training programs can significantly enhance your career prospects. Many employers prefer candidates who have completed these programs, and certifications such as the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) test can credentialize you to your clients.
Academic institutions in Georgia, such as Georgia Southern University and Gwinnett Technical College, offer comprehensive training programs that include college courses and online training. These programs cover essential topics like air and ground transportation, travel industry basics, and marketing techniques, preparing you for the TAP test and a successful career in the travel industry.
Choosing the right host business is also vital. Host agencies provide resources such as access to booking systems, partner programs, marketing support, and training. They also offer an IATA number, which is essential for conducting business as a travel agent. Working with a host business like Fora can provide a one-stop shop for everything you need to get started with your travel advisor business.
In addition to formal education and certifications, building your career as a travel agent involves continuous learning and professional development. Participating in familiarization trips, staying updated with travel advisories, and specializing in niche markets can all enhance your expertise and make you a trusted and skilled travel professional in Georgia.
Understanding the Role of a Travel Agent
Key Responsibilities of a Travel Agent
A travel agent's role is multifaceted and demanding, yet highly rewarding. The primary responsibilities include planning and booking travel arrangements for clients, such as flights, accommodations, and activities. Travel agents must also provide excellent customer service, handle client inquiries, and resolve any issues that may arise during the travel planning process. Additionally, they need to stay updated with the latest travel trends, safety protocols, and industry developments to offer informed and personalized travel advice.
Types of Travel Specializations (Destination, Luxury, Cruise, Group Travel)
Travel agents can specialize in various types of travel to cater to different client needs. Destination specialization involves deep knowledge of specific regions, such as Georgia's local attractions like the historic city of Savannah or the Blue Ridge Mountains. Luxury travel agents focus on high-end travel experiences, including luxury resorts and exclusive tours. Cruise specialists handle all aspects of cruise travel, from booking cabins to organizing onboard activities. Group travel agents coordinate trips for larger groups, such as corporate events or family reunions.
Types of Travel Specializations
Specialization
Description
Destination
Expertise in specific regions, such as local attractions in Georgia.
Luxury
High-end travel experiences, including luxury resorts and exclusive tours.
Cruise
Handling all aspects of cruise travel, from cabin bookings to onboard activities.
Group Travel
Coordinating trips for larger groups, such as corporate events or family reunions.
Local Knowledge and Its Importance in Planning Trips
Local knowledge is a valuable asset for travel agents, especially when planning trips within their home state. For instance, a travel agent in Georgia can offer insider tips on the best restaurants in Atlanta, hidden gems in Savannah, or the most scenic hiking trails in the Blue Ridge Mountains. This local expertise helps in creating personalized and unique travel experiences that clients might not find through general travel guides.
By leveraging local knowledge, travel agents can design itineraries that include off-the-beaten-path destinations and local events, making the travel experience more authentic and memorable for their clients.
Understanding the nuances of local travel can significantly enhance the quality of service a travel agent provides, setting them apart from other travel professionals.
Basic Requirements and Qualifications
High School Diploma or GED
To become a travel agent in Georgia, one of the primary requirements is having a high school diploma or a GED equivalent. This foundational education provides a basis for the skills and knowledge you will acquire through subsequent training and certifications. Most employers in the travel industry prefer candidates with at least this level of education, as it indicates a certain level of academic achievement and readiness for further training.
Affinity for the Job and Cultural Knowledge
An affinity for the job is crucial for a successful career as a travel agent. This involves a genuine passion for travel, cultural exploration, and helping others plan their trips. Travel agents need to be well-versed in various cultures and destinations to provide personalized and informed travel advice. Building upon this initial passion by learning more about the travel industry and global cultures can significantly enhance your career prospects.
Cultural knowledge is essential for understanding client preferences and tailoring travel plans to meet their unique needs. For instance, knowing the local customs and attractions in different regions can help you recommend the best experiences for your clients.
Key Qualifications for Travel Agents
Qualification
Description
High School Diploma or GED
The minimum educational requirement for most travel agent positions.
Affinity for the Job
A genuine passion for travel and cultural exploration.
Cultural Knowledge
Understanding of various cultures and destinations to provide personalized travel advice.
Having a strong foundation in these areas will not only make you a more competitive candidate but also ensure that you are well-prepared to excel in the dynamic and rewarding field of travel business.
Legal and Certification Requirements
IATA Number and Its Significance
To conduct business as a travel agent in Georgia, obtaining an IATA (International Air Transport Association) number is crucial. This unique identifier allows a travel business to issue tickets and conduct other travel-related transactions. Most travel agents choose to work with a host business, which provides access to this IATA number, enabling them to earn commissions on the travel they book.
Host Agencies and Their Role
Host agencies play a vital role in the career of a travel agent. These agencies provide essential resources, including access to booking systems, partner programs, marketing support, and training. A host business like Fora offers a one-stop shop for everything needed to start and run a travel advisor business, including the necessary IATA number. They also support agents with ongoing training and marketing assistance, helping them to grow their client base and enhance their services.
Benefits of Working with a Host Agency
Benefit
Description
Access to Booking Systems
Use of professional booking systems and travel software.
Partner Programs
Collaborations with airlines, hotels, and other travel providers.
Marketing Support
Assistance in promoting your travel services and attracting clients.
IATA Number
Access to the necessary IATA number for conducting business.
While not mandatory, obtaining professional certifications can significantly enhance your career as a travel agent. Certifications such as the Certified Travel Associate (CTA), Verified Travel Advisor (VTA), and Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) are offered by the Travel Institute. These certifications demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the profession, making you more attractive to potential clients and employers. The Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) is an advanced certification that indicates a higher level of knowledge and experience in the field.
These certifications are recognized industry-wide and can open up more opportunities for career advancement and higher earning potential.
Benefits of Professional Certifications
Professional certifications bring several benefits to travel agents. They credentialize you to your clients, showing that you have a deep understanding of the travel industry and its complexities. Certified travel agents are often preferred by employers and clients alike, as these certifications signify a level of professionalism and expertise. Additionally, certifications can lead to increased job security, better career prospects, and higher salary potential.
Certifications also provide a competitive edge in the market, helping you stand out among other travel agents and build a more successful and fulfilling career.Why Certify?
Certifying as a travel agent not only enhances your professional reputation but also demonstrates your dedication to providing high-quality service. It can lead to increased client trust, better job opportunities, and continuous professional growth.
Acquiring Training and Education
Online Travel Agent Training Programs
Online training programs offer a flexible and convenient way to acquire the necessary education to become a travel agent in Georgia. These programs are designed to be self-paced, allowing you to learn at your own speed and schedule.
University of Georgia Online Program
The University of Georgia offers a comprehensive online travel agent training program that includes approximately 6 months of training and 100 course hours. This program covers essential topics such as air and ground transportation, introduction to the travel industry, and marketing techniques. It is particularly suitable for those seeking a flexible, self-paced approach to their learning.
Georgia State University Online Program
Georgia State University also provides an online travel agent training program with an open enrollment policy. This program is equally comprehensive, covering key topics like air and ground transportation, introduction to airlines, and marketing techniques. It is designed to equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the travel industry.
Comparison of Online Programs
Institution
Duration
Course Hours
Tuition
University of Georgia
Approximately 6 months
100 course hours
$11,180 - $30,220
Georgia State University
Approximately 6 months
Varies
$10,268 - $29,306
University of North Georgia Online Course
While specific details on the University of North Georgia's online travel agent course may not be as widely available, many institutions in Georgia offer similar programs. These courses typically cover the basics of the travel industry, customer service, and marketing techniques, preparing you for a career as a travel agent.
These online programs are designed to be flexible, allowing you to balance your learning with other commitments while still gaining the necessary skills and knowledge.
On-the-Job Training Opportunities
In addition to formal education, on-the-job training is a valuable way to gain practical experience in the travel industry. Many employers offer training programs for new hires, which include hands-on experience with booking systems, customer service, and other essential skills. This type of training allows you to learn directly from experienced professionals and apply your knowledge in real-world scenarios.
On-the-job training is an excellent way to bridge the gap between theoretical knowledge and practical application, making you a more competent and confident travel agent.
Trade Schools and Colleges Offering Travel Agent Courses
Besides online programs, several trade schools and colleges in Georgia offer travel agent courses. These institutions provide a structured learning environment where you can gain a deep understanding of the travel industry. For example, Georgia Southern University and Gwinnett Technical College are among the institutions that offer comprehensive training programs in travel business operations.
What to Expect from Trade Schools and Colleges
These programs typically include courses on air and ground transportation, customer service, marketing techniques, and foreign and domestic destinations. They are designed to prepare you for the TAP test and other professional certifications, ensuring you are well-equipped to start your career as a travel agent.
Choosing a Host Agency
Resources Provided by Host Agencies (Booking Systems, Marketing Support, Training)
Host agencies are invaluable resources for aspiring travel agents in Georgia, offering a range of essential services that help you launch and grow your career. One of the key resources provided is access to professional booking systems, which enable you to efficiently manage and book travel arrangements for your clients. These systems often include tools for managing airline tickets, hotel reservations, and other travel components.
Resources Provided by Host Agencies
Resource
Description
Booking Systems
Tools for managing airline tickets, hotel reservations, and other travel components.
Marketing Support
Assistance in promoting your travel services and attracting clients.
Training
Ongoing training and educational resources to enhance your skills and knowledge.
Benefits of Working with a Host Agency
Working with a host business offers numerous benefits for travel agents. One of the primary advantages is the access to an IATA number, which is essential for conducting business as a travel agent. Host agencies also provide a supportive environment with ongoing training and educational resources, helping you to stay updated with industry trends and best practices.
Additionally, host agencies often have established relationships with airlines, hotels, and other travel providers, which can lead to better commissions and exclusive deals for your clients.
This collaborative environment can significantly enhance your career prospects and client satisfaction.
Examples of Host Agencies in Georgia
In Georgia, there are several reputable host agencies that you can consider partnering with. For example, Fora is a well-known host business that provides comprehensive support, including access to booking systems, marketing support, and training. Another example is Bluegreen Vacations, which offers a range of resources and opportunities for travel agents to grow their business.
What to Look for in a Host Agency
When selecting a host business, it is important to consider the level of support they offer, their industry reputation, and the specific resources they provide. Look for agencies with a strong track record of supporting their agents and helping them achieve success.
Building Your Career as a Travel Agent
Specializing in a Niche Market
Specializing in a niche market is a powerful way to differentiate yourself and build a successful career as a travel agent in Georgia. By focusing on a specific type of travel, such as destination travel, luxury travel, cruise travel, or group travel, you can develop deep expertise and attract a loyal client base. For example, you might specialize in adventure travel, catering to clients looking for unique and adrenaline-pumping experiences. This specialization can help you stand out in a competitive market and increase your earning potential.
Networking and Professional Development
Networking and continuous professional development are crucial for building a successful career as a travel agent. Joining industry associations like the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) or participating in local travel agent networks can provide valuable connections and opportunities. These networks often host workshops, seminars, and conferences where you can learn about the latest trends, gain new skills, and stay updated with industry standards.
Attending familiarization trips and industry events can also help you build relationships with suppliers, airlines, and other travel professionals, which can lead to better deals and exclusive offers for your clients.
Benefits of Networking and Professional Development
Benefit
Description
Industry Connections
Valuable relationships with suppliers, airlines, and other travel professionals.
Workshops and Seminars
Opportunities to learn about the latest trends and gain new skills.
Familiarization Trips
First-hand experience with destinations and travel services.
Marketing Your Services Effectively
Effective marketing is essential for attracting and retaining clients as a travel agent. Utilizing digital marketing strategies such as social media, email marketing, and website optimization can help you reach a wider audience. Creating engaging content, such as travel blogs or newsletters, can also help you build a strong online presence and attract potential clients.
Marketing Strategies for Travel Agents
Consider using social media platforms to share travel tips, destination highlights, and client testimonials. You can also leverage search engine optimization (SEO) to ensure your website appears in search results for travel-related queries. Additionally, building an email list and sending regular newsletters can keep your clients informed and engaged.
By combining these marketing strategies with your specialized knowledge and professional network, you can effectively promote your services and build a thriving career as a travel agent in Georgia.
Conclusion: Embarking on Your Journey as a Travel Agent in Georgia
Becoming a travel agent in Georgia is a rewarding and exciting career path that offers a blend of adventure, cultural exploration, and the satisfaction of helping others create unforgettable travel experiences. From the initial steps of meeting the basic requirements and acquiring the necessary training, to specializing in a niche market and building your professional network, each stage is crucial in shaping your career.
Whether you choose to work with a host business, pursue specialized certifications, or focus on marketing your services effectively, your dedication and passion for travel will be the driving forces behind your career growth.
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Travel Agents in Georgia
Aspect
Description
Basic Requirements
High school diploma or GED, affinity for the job, and cultural knowledge.
Training and Education
Online programs, on-the-job training, and courses from trade schools and colleges.
Specialization
Focusing on a niche market such as destination, luxury, cruise, or group travel.
Professional Development
Networking, continuous learning, and obtaining certifications like CTA or CTC.
By leveraging the resources available in Georgia, such as the online training programs offered by the University of Georgia and Georgia State University, and by partnering with reputable host agencies, you can set yourself up for success in this exciting and rewarding field.
As you embark on this journey, remember that every client interaction, every trip planned, and every challenge overcome is an opportunity to grow and excel as a travel agent in Georgia.Final Tips for Success
Stay passionate about travel, be open to learning and growth, and always prioritize excellent customer service. These qualities will make you a standout in the industry and ensure a fulfilling career as a travel agent.
While you're in Georgia, plan to visit at least a few stately mansions and antebellum plantations—much of the South's culture and history can be found in these magnificent structures. Some of the nicest examples can be seen in a pleasant two-day circ...
Located 70 mi/115 km east of Atlanta, Athens, Georgia, provides a good study in how the New South coexists with the Old South. Athens has been the home of the University of Georgia, the first land-grant university in the U.S., since the school was ch...
Atlanta is a city full of entertaining and exciting activities. Visitors may choose to spend a day at one of Atlanta's golf resorts or day spas, browse through the Southeast's finest shopping malls or visit one of the many historical and family attra...
Founded in 1736, Augusta is a thriving resort community and a mecca for golfers the world over. It's the site of the Master's Tournament, played at the Augusta National Golf Club each April. It's 150 mi/240 km east of Atlanta.The city seems to be con...
Batumi is located on the Black Sea Coast and is close to the Turkey border. The town has a great beach and a small city center that can be seen on foot. There a some houses that date back to the 19th century that are great to see!
Once the playground of nobles and nomenklatura alike, the Black Sea Coast of Georgia has long been noted for its warm weather and sandy beaches. Two favorite resorts are Batumi, just north of the border with Turkey, and nearby Kobuleti. Batumi was ru...
What is a winery and resort built in the style of a 16th-century chateau doing in a small town in Georgia? We don't know, but we enjoyed it anyway. Chateau Elan successfully captures the romanticism of wine-making usually associated with the wineries...
This small town in west-central Georgia has two claims to fame, one having to do with music and the other with art. The music comes from several attractions that opened in the early 1990s. The National Country Music Museum has a unique collection tha...
Calhoun is 65 mi/105 km northwest of Atlanta.The New Echota State Historic Site commemorates the short-lived but valiant effort of the Cherokee Nation to form its own government in 1825, one that would exist side by side with the still-young U.S. for...
This beautiful resort in western Georgia offers 2,500 acres/1,000 hectares of green meadows, rolling hills, lakes, flowers and woodlands. Boating, diving, fishing, golfing and swimming are among the activities. The Azalea Trail has 700 varieties of t...
Located largely in the Blue Ridge Mountains, Chatahoochee National Forest covers a wide stretch of northern Georgia and offers a summer haven for those looking to beat the heat of lower climes. Within the Chattahoochee Forest, you'll find beautiful w...
This military park, which extends from Georgia into Tennessee, commemorates two major Civil War engagements that took place in 1863: the Battle of the Chickamauga and the Battle of Chattanooga. It includes Missionary Ridge, where Gen. Ulysses S. Gran...
This group of islands off the southern Georgia coast was once the playground of some of the wealthiest families in the world. Today, it continues to draw well-heeled travelers, but those of more modest means can also enjoy the semitropical beach reso...
An ancient historical site that was besieged by Pompey the Great in 65 BC, Gori is better known in modern times as the birthplace of Josef Stalin. It is located 55 mi/85 km west of Tbilisi.The town is dominated by the Goris-Tsikhe Fortress (the prese...
This town 65 mi/105 km northeast of Atlanta, once a lumber-mill settlement, has been transformed into an Alpine village. In fact, if you blink, you might believe that you've been transported to a German or Swiss Bavarian village. The place is filled ...
Kutaisi is the second largest city in Georgia, and is located in the western region of Imereti, along the banks of the Rioni River. In addition to Kutaisi's superb museums, visit 11th century Bagrati Cathedral and Gelati Monastery/Academy, both U...
Macon is a historic southern city located in the center of Georgia, and is known as "the Heart of Georgia". Macon is famous for its International Cherry Blossom Festival held every March for 10 days. It is home to famous musicians The Allma...
Thanks to a gentleman's agreement between Gen. Sherman and a local politician, the city of Madison was not burned to the ground by Sherman's army. Most of the historic homes are on the main road (Highway 441) as you drive into town. In general, the h...
Mtskheta was home to the first Christian church in Georgia, now the cathedral of Svetitskhoveli, which was built over the tomb of Sidonia, a woman who died clutching the robe of Christ. She is said to have been buried with it. Mtskheta was the capita...
Cypress trees, floating islands, alligators and more than 200 species of birds dominate this massive swampland in southeast Georgia. There are three main entrances into the refuge. From the east, you can enter through the Suwannee Canal Recreation Ar...
Like its namesake in Italy, Rome, Georgia, was built on seven hills. The connection to the Italian city is underscored by the statue in front of City Hall: It's a bronze reproduction of the famous sculpture of the wolf that nursed Romulus and Remus, ...
Savannah offers fun for all ages. The city overflows with Southern hospitality, striking historical landmarks and flourishing gardens. There are gorgeous beaches on nearby Tybee Island, museums, culture, and much more. Savannah is a city with a flair...
According to legend, the city of Tbilisi was founded in the 5th century by King Vakhtang Gorgasali who discovered a mystical warm spring that inspired the king to build a city on the site. Tbili meaning "warm" has been rebuilt 29 times and ...
Located 125 mi/200 km south of Macon, Thomasville provides visitors with a particularly enchanting view of the Old South at its Pebble Hill Plantation, set amid crape myrtle and dogwood trees draped in Spanish moss. And be sure to see the Lapham-Patt...
Along Interstate 75 near Tifton, you'll find the Georgia Museum of Agriculture, which is operated by the Abraham Baldwin Agricultural College. This living-history museum depicts farm life in the 1800s. Its 35 authentic restorations include homes, a g...
Located about 45 mi/75 km southeast of Athens, the town of Washington, Georgia, boasts more than 100 colonial, antebellum and Victorian buildings. Notable is the restored home of Robert Toombs, a recalcitrant politician who hated the Union for politi...
Surrounded by palm trees and lying only 30 mi/50 km from the Black Sea, Zugdidi enjoys a balmy, almost tropical climate. In town are some lovely botanical gardens and the Dadiani Palace, where coins from ancient Colchis and a death mask of Napoleon a...
The largest state east of the Mississippi River is 300 mi/480 km from top to bottom, and 230 mi/370 km at its greatest width. The 9 million citizens of "The Empire State" or "The Peach State" practice southern hospitality, follow the Atlanta Braves religiously, eat more pork barbecue than fried chicken, prefer Coca-Cola over morning coffee and drink iced sweet tea—lots of it—from noon to night.
Most Georgians live close to the major cities, so visitors passing through the wide open spaces between cities may wonder if the population number is a misprint. These rural areas offer a tremendous variety of outdoor activities for sports enthusiasts, nature lovers and sun worshippers.
In Georgia, the past seems to intersect with the present at every turn in the road: The profiles of Confederate leaders gaze stoically from Stone Mountain; turn-of-the-century homes still gleam on the Golden Isles; and every town between Atlanta and Savannah displays its mementos of General Sherman's 1864 invasion.
Even present-day events seem tied to tradition. We happened upon a wedding in a Savannah park where women in elaborate hats sipped champagne beneath the moss-draped trees and a horse and buggy stood waiting for the bride and groom. It was a scene that could have taken place a century earlier, except for the crowds of T-shirt-clad gawkers (like us) who stood around admiring the scene.
For travelers, Georgia's historic awareness presents an opportunity to glimpse the culture of the Old South. You can tour vintage mansions and plantations, visit forts and museums and witness battle reenactments. The state is not trapped in its past—witness the amenities of cosmopolitan Atlanta or the contemporary arts and music scene of Athens—but the state's reverence for earlier times is one of its most endearing qualities.
History
Georgia's recorded history begins with the Native Americans who inhabited the region some 10,000 years ago and left evidence of their hunting and gathering cultures. Those belonging to the Mississippian Culture (AD 900-1200) built ceremonial mounds, some good examples of which have been preserved at the Ocmulgee National Monument, near Macon. Later, the Creek and Cherokee tribes lived in the area. Their settlements of 100 to 1,000 residents were often located along rivers.
The first European to see this region was explorer Hernando de Soto, who claimed portions of it for Spain in 1540. While the Spanish established missions on some coastal islands, their presence did not deter the British from claiming the same territory. The two countries jousted over the region until the Battle of Bloody Marsh in 1742, when an English victory secured it for King George II. The colony was named Georgia in his honor. It was the 13th and final of the original U.S. colonies to be established.
Following the Revolutionary War, Georgia was the fourth state admitted to the Union. Though the Creek and Cherokee nations made efforts to coexist with white culture, conflicts with settlers eventually led to the forced removal of these tribes to areas west of the Mississippi (an ill-fated event known as the Trail of Tears).
Large slave-powered plantations flourished in Georgia, and when the Civil War erupted in the 1860s, the state sided with the Confederacy. In 1864, Georgia suffered greatly at the hands of Union General William Tecumseh Sherman: After overcoming Confederate forces in northern Georgia, Sherman's army burned Atlanta and then made its infamous March to the Sea, destroying everything in a 60-mi-/100-km-wide swath. The war ended soon after. Georgia was readmitted to the Union in 1870, but the process of rebuilding its economy and society was slow and fraught with difficulties.
Though initially reliant on cotton, Georgia now depends upon industry (both textiles and high-tech), as well as communications, agriculture and forestry (it is the nation's leading producer of paper pulp). And, inspired by local leaders, especially the late Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Georgians have worked together to redress injustices and set a course for social and economic progress.
Snapshot
Among Georgia's main attractions are southern culture, Savannah, Macon, Atlanta, historical sites, majestic mountains, antebellum mansions, scenic swamps, beautiful landscapes and wide, sandy beaches.
Because of the state's size and diverse geography, local culture and activities change with the surroundings. You can divide Georgia into four regions and you'll quickly notice that each area's geography, personality and trademarks are unique. North Georgia offers glorious mountain views, wild rapids, waterfalls, gold mining, bluegrass music, apples and antiques; The metro Atlanta area is a bustling, fast, work-hard-and-play-hard community with plenty of multicultural and civic pride, upscale dining and support for the decorative and performing arts; the heartland is full of antebellum heritage, movers and shakers, rock 'n' rollers, gospel music, peach orchards, pine trees, cotton fields and fresh vegetables; and the Golden Isles of the coastland offer barrier-island cottages, boiled shrimp and boiled peanuts, turtle walks by flashlight, dolphins and lighthouses.
Travelers who enjoy splitting their time between urban and rural attractions and who are interested in U.S. history will have a great time in Georgia. So will fans of shopping and southern cooking. Beach and sun worshippers will love the southern coast during the summer and early fall. Folks who like mountains will find an opportunity to explore the twists and turns of north Georgia's high-country roads, shot through with pretty rivers and waterfalls. They can hunt for antiques in the charming mountain towns and sample the homemade baked goods and crafts. Visitors who cannot tolerate a hot, humid climate will want to avoid Georgia's flatlands during summer months.
Potpourri
How many times have you asked yourself: "Why isn't there a national tick collection?" Well there is, and you can see it at Georgia Southern University in Statesboro.
Georgia has nurtured many famous musicians and music groups, including Little Richard, Otis Redding, the Allman Brothers Band, James Brown, Johnny Mercer, Jerry Reed, R.E.M., the B-52s, the Indigo Girls and Ray Charles. Other celebrities who have called Georgia home include Jimmy Carter, Hank Aaron, Jim Bowie, Ty Cobb, Jackie Robinson, Erskine Caldwell, Martin Luther King Jr., Julia Roberts, Evander Holyfield, Elton John and Herschel Walker.
The state song is "Georgia on My Mind" (written by Hoagy Carmichael, who was not a Georgian).
Eli Whitney invented the cotton gin near Savannah in 1793.
Just east of Atlanta, in Conyers, is the Monastery of Our Lady of the Holy Spirit. The friendly monks there grow and harvest their own food, and they sell their jellies and baked goods, including some of the best bread you're likely ever to taste. You can visit the church, grounds and gift shop, and even make arrangements to stay overnight and partake of a monastery breakfast. You'll bunk down for a nominal cost in one of the simple and peaceful public boarding rooms. Phone 770-483-8705 for information on accommodations. http://www.trappist.net.
If you eat chicken in Gainesville, the Chicken Capital of the World, you'd better use your hands: Eating it with a fork is illegal.
Georgia was the first state to allow 18-year-olds to vote (in 1943).
Ripe peaches are sold at roadside stands during the summer. From mid- to late March, every peach tree along the Peach Blossom Trail (Highway 341 from Jonesboro to Perry) is in bloom.
Georgia had its own gold rush in 1828 in Dahlonega, 40 mi/65 km northeast of Atlanta. The discovery of gold in the Blue Ridge Mountains sent a stampede of miners into what was then Cherokee country. The Dahlonega Courthouse Gold Museum traces the area's gold-dusted history with exhibits and a documentary film. Consolidated Mines also offers tours of the largest gold mine east of the Mississippi River.
Georgia's official state vegetable, the Vidalia onion, is the sweetest onion in the world. It is only grown in Vidalia and Glennville.
During the years it was part of the Soviet Union, Georgia was the top destination in Caucasia, offering magnificent monasteries, historic sites and scenic mountains. Wedged between Russia and Turkey, with a long shoreline on the Black Sea, it was known for its balmy climate and its fabulous food and drink.
Georgia is one of the most fascinating countries in the region, and overall a safe place to visit, though travelers should avoid the separatist regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia.
Evidence of the Georgians' determination to build a tourism business, particularly through infrastructure development, is widely evident. Much has been accomplished in recent years, but plenty remains to be addressed in order to reach international standards.
Geography
Georgia is bordered by Russia to the north, Azerbaijan to the east, Turkey and Armenia to the south, and the Black Sea to the west. Much of the country is dominated by mountains. The Caucasus Mountains form a natural border with Russia in the north, with the Lesser Caucasus along the border with Turkey to the southwest.
The Likhi Range links them running north-south through the center of the country. West of these mountains, particularly along the Black Sea coast, the climate is moderate, even balmy at times. The area east of the Likhis is colder and drier.
Snapshot
The chief attractions of Georgia are monasteries, fine wines, great food, mountainous terrain, historical and mythological sites, a beautiful coast, cave settlements, art and outgoing people.
Though parts of the country are too dangerous to visit, the rest of Georgia is an appropriate destination for adventurous people who are looking for someplace truly different.
Potpourri
Some of the oldest people in the world live in Georgia. Some villages near the Black Sea claim elders of 130 years and more. Supposedly, yogurt has something to do with the long lifespans.
Jason's quest for the Golden Fleece isn't the only mythological story set in the Caucasus Mountains. As punishment for giving the gift of fire to humanity, Prometheus was said to have been chained to Mount Elbrus. The Amazons, a legendary race of women warriors, were supposed to have lived on the banks of the Terek River. And Kutaisi is said to be the city of King Aetes and Medea, possessors of the Golden Fleece.
Hominid remains 1.7 million years old, the oldest in Europe, have been found at Dmanisi, near the border with Armenia.
Georgians have probably been making wine since the Bronze Age. They claim the word comes from the Georgian ghvino.
"Georgian Snickers" is an apt nickname for churchkhela, a chewy bar made by threading nuts and raisins on a string, dipping them in simmering grape juice and hanging them up to dry.
Most Georgian fortresses had a secret tunnel leading to a river escape route. Ask the caretaker of any castle you visit about the particulars of his place.
The square watchtowers of the Svan people, scattered around the town of Mestia, are more than 1,000 years old. Some 20 watchtowers are concentrated in Ushguli, which at 7,220 ft/2,200 m claims to be the highest permanently inhabited village in Europe.
The nation's name came from the Persian word for the inhabitants of the country: Gorj. The "Gorj," however, call themselves the Kartveli and their country Sakartvelo. It's pure coincidence that the country's patron is St. George.
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There’s no better way to kick off your cruise than with a few days of exploration in beautiful British Columbia. Whether you’re setting sail from Vancouver or disembarking in Vancouver, a pre or post ...
Introduction: After three years of anticipation, we finally embarked on our long-awaited journey to Banff National Park in Alberta, Canada. From the breathtaking landscapes of Banff to the charming ci...
Is it a good idea? What is it like over Spring Break?
See our latest: All Inclusive Hard Rock Hotels 101 Guide!
This is a common question we get from clients. Keep in mind Spring Break is wide ...
Recently, I went on a Girls Trip to Hilton Head Island, Georgia. We had an absolute blast! Hilton Head Island is a great destination for everyone: families, couples, multigeneration trips, and girls ...
Popular Locations & Brands - Experiences All Over The World!
Click on a location below to learn more. We recognize that vacations are not just an investment, but often the highlights of our lives, and we take that responsibility seriously. We want to ensure you have the best experience.
Our motto at Vincent Vacations is, we go so you know! We want to ensure you have the BEST experience, whether it's a river cruise, or a corporate group incentive trip, we want to ensure your vacation is a success.
Many of our travel agents have been in travel since 2002! With Vincent Vacations, all travel components are taken care of - this includes accommodations, air, transfers, tours, activities, insurance, contracts, EVERYTHING.
Romance Travel
Destination weddings, Anniversaries, vow renewals, honeymoons, engagements, elopements, retie the knot, babymoons, proposal trips and more
Group Travel
Corporate group retreats and incentive trips, seniors-only river cruises, friends & family getaways, special group anniversary celebrations and more
Family
All-inclusive resorts, Hawaii, cruises, Europe, African Safaris, exotic Fiji and the islands, there are so many travel options for families
Disney
Adventures by Disney, Disney Cruise Lines, Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Resorts, Aulani, Universal, MyDisneyExperience, Disney Genie, characters dining, and more
Ocean cruising, river cruising, yacht charters, expeditions, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Viking, Lindblad, there are so many options when it comes to cruising
And SO Much More!
We create custom travel itineraries and trips, and we know travel - Whether it's Universal, river cruises, safaris, yacht charters, Australia, Thailand and more!
Travel agents can help save time and stress by doing the research and handling all your bookings for you. An experience travel agent is best at finding great deals and packages, as well as providing you with helpful information and tips. They can also help you plan special activities and experiences that you may not have thought of on your own.
All in all, using a travel agent can be a great way to make sure you get the most out of your trip.
In travel since 2002, and in business since 2013, our travel team serves clients all over the US!
Planning a vacation away from home takes a great team.
We have taken the time to build a team of dedicated, smart, hard-working personnel who are each committed to excellence and service.
We work side-by-side, creating and ensuring INCREDIBLE vacation experiences for you and your group.
Our store front in-office team, and our travel consultant independent contractors, work all around the US.
Start Your Next Trip With Vincent Vacations Today!
In business since 2013, we are your #1 source for travel!