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become a travel agent in Maryland
  1. How to Become a Travel Agent in Maryland
    1. Understanding the Role of a Travel Agent
      1. Key Responsibilities of a Travel Agent
      2. Types of Travel Agents: Independent, Host Agency, and Specialized Agents
    2. Legal Requirements for Travel Agents in Maryland
      1. Obtaining an IATA Number
      2. Importance of Host Agencies in Maryland
    3. Education and Training for Travel Agents
      1. Formal Education: Degrees in Hospitality and Tourism
      2. Certification Programs: TAP Test, ASTA, and IATA Certifications
      3. Online and Offline Training Programs in Maryland
        1. Community College of Baltimore County Travel Agent Training
        2. University of Maryland Eastern Shore Hospitality and Tourism Management
    4. Choosing a Host Agency
      1. Benefits of Joining a Host Agency
      2. Resources and Support Provided by Host Agencies
      3. How to Select the Right Host Agency for Your Needs
    5. Specializing in Travel
      1. Specialty Areas: Cruises, Destination Travel, Adventure Travel
      2. Building Local Knowledge: Planning Trips in Maryland
    6. Job Placement and Career Development
      1. Securing Job Placement with a Host Agency
      2. Continuing Education and Professional Development
      3. Building a Client Base and Networking

How to Become a Travel Agent in Maryland

Becoming a travel agent in Maryland can be an exciting and rewarding career path, especially if you are passionate about travel and enjoy helping others create unforgettable memories. As a travel agent, you will have the opportunity to plan and book travel for clients, ranging from flights and accommodations to activities and excursions. You can also leverage your local knowledge to plan trips within Maryland, showcasing the best of what the state has to offer, from foodie tours of Baltimore to nature exploration on Chesapeake Bay.

Understanding the Role

A travel agent's key responsibilities include planning and booking travel itineraries, providing travel advice, and ensuring that clients have a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. Whether you are booking trips to international destinations or organizing local tours, your role is crucial in making travel dreams a reality.

As a travel agent in Maryland, you can book trips of all types, to destinations all over the world. Your expertise and local knowledge can make you an invaluable resource for clients looking to explore both global and local travel options.

Legal Requirements

To become a travel agent in Maryland, you need to meet a few legal requirements. The main requirement is obtaining an IATA (International Air Transport Association) number, which is a unique identifier that allows a travel business to conduct business. Most travel agents choose to work with a host business, which provides access to the IATA number along with other essential resources and support.

Key Legal Requirements for Travel Agents in Maryland
Requirement Description
IATA Number A unique identifier provided by a host business, allowing the travel business to conduct business.
Host Agency Provides resources, support, and access to booking systems and partner programs.

Certification and Education

While formal certifications or degrees are not mandatory to become a travel agent in Maryland, having a certification can be highly beneficial. Certifications such as those offered by the American Society of Travel Advisors (ASTA) or the International Air Transport Association (IATA) can enhance your credentials and improve your standing with clients and potential host agencies.

With the right training, support, and resources, you can embark on a fulfilling career as a travel agent in Maryland, turning your passion for travel into a profession that brings joy and satisfaction to both you and your clients.


how to become a travel agent in Maryland

Understanding the Role of a Travel Agent

Key Responsibilities of a Travel Agent

A travel agent's role is multifaceted and involves several key responsibilities. Primarily, travel agents work with clients to understand their vacation needs and handle all the travel arrangements. This includes planning and booking flights, accommodations, and activities, as well as organizing excursions and other travel experiences. Travel agents must also provide travel advice, ensure that clients have all necessary travel documents, and troubleshoot any issues that may arise during the travel planning process.

As a travel agent, you will be the client's go-to expert for all things travel. Your ability to tailor travel itineraries to meet individual preferences and ensure a smooth travel experience is crucial to building a loyal client base.

Additionally, travel agents often have to stay updated on the latest travel trends, destinations, and industry developments to offer the best possible services to their clients. This involves continuous learning and networking within the travel industry.

Key Responsibilities of a Travel Agent
Responsibility Description
Travel Planning Booking flights, accommodations, and activities based on client preferences.
Travel Advice Providing clients with information on destinations, travel tips, and necessary documents.
Troubleshooting Resolving any issues that may arise during the travel planning process or during the client's trip.
Continuous Learning Staying updated on travel trends, new destinations, and industry developments.

Types of Travel Agents: Independent, Host Agency, and Specialized Agents

There are several types of travel agents, each with their own unique characteristics and advantages.

Independent Travel Agents

Independent travel agents work on their own, often from home or a small office. They manage all aspects of their business, including client relationships, marketing, and financial management. Independent agents may have more flexibility in their work schedule but also bear the full responsibility of running a business.

Host Agency Travel Agents

Host business travel agents work under the umbrella of a larger host business. This setup provides access to resources such as booking systems, partner programs, marketing support, and training. Host agencies also typically provide the IATA number necessary for conducting business. This model is beneficial for those who want to focus on the core aspects of being a travel agent without the administrative burden of running a full business.

Host Agency: Provides IATA number, booking systems, marketing support, and training.

Specialized Travel Agents

Specialized travel agents focus on specific types of travel, such as cruises, destination travel, or adventure travel. These agents develop deep expertise in their chosen area and can offer highly tailored services to clients. Specialization can help agents stand out in the market and attract a loyal client base interested in their particular area of expertise.

Specializing in a particular type of travel allows you to become an authority in that area, which can lead to higher client satisfaction and repeat business.

Types of Travel Agents
Type Description
Independent Travel Agents Work on their own, managing all aspects of the business.
Host Agency Travel Agents Work under a host business, accessing resources and support.
Specialized Travel Agents Focus on specific types of travel, such as cruises or adventure travel.


how to become a travel agent in Maryland

Legal Requirements for Travel Agents in Maryland

Obtaining an IATA Number

In Maryland, one of the key legal requirements for becoming a travel agent is obtaining an IATA (International Air Transport Association) number. This number is essential for conducting business as a travel agent, as it allows you to book flights, hotels, and other travel services through the Global Distribution Systems (GDS

Having an IATA number enhances your credibility and facilitates smoother transactions with airlines, hotels, and other travel vendors. It is a critical step in establishing yourself as a legitimate and professional travel agent in Maryland.

Importance of IATA Number
Benefit Description
Credibility Enhances your professional standing and trust with clients and vendors.
Booking Capabilities Allows you to book flights, hotels, and other travel services through GDS.
Smooth Transactions Facilitates easier and more efficient transactions with travel vendors.

Importance of Host Agencies in Maryland

Host agencies play a crucial role in the legal and operational aspects of being a travel agent in Maryland. Since travel agents in Maryland do not need to be licensed or certified by the state, working with a host business can provide the necessary support and resources to operate legally and effectively.

A host business provides more than just an IATA number; it offers training, marketing support, access to booking systems, and partner programs that can significantly boost your business.

Host agencies also handle many of the administrative tasks, such as compliance with industry regulations and managing client payments, which allows you to focus on what you do best – planning and booking travel for your clients.

Host Agency: Provides IATA number, training, marketing support, access to booking systems, and partner programs.

In addition, host agencies often have established relationships with suppliers, which can result in better deals and more options for your clients. This collaborative model ensures that you have the tools and resources needed to succeed as a travel agent in Maryland.

Benefits of Working with a Host Agency

Working with a host business offers several benefits, including:

Training and Support: Comprehensive training programs to help you develop your skills and knowledge.

Marketing Assistance: Help with marketing your services to attract more clients.

Access to Resources: Use of booking systems, partner programs, and other essential tools.

Compliance Management: Assistance with complying with industry regulations and managing client payments.

By joining a host business, you can ensure that you meet all the necessary legal requirements while also gaining the support and resources needed to build a successful career as a travel agent in Maryland.


how to become a travel agent in Maryland

Education and Training for Travel Agents

Formal Education: Degrees in Hospitality and Tourism

Pursuing a formal education in hospitality and tourism can be a solid foundation for a career as a travel agent in Maryland. Programs like the Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore offer comprehensive training that includes internship and collaborative experience opportunities. These programs help you develop strong organizational skills, interpersonal skills, and a deep knowledge of geography and tourism, which are essential for success in the travel industry.

Certification Programs: TAP Test, ASTA, and IATA Certifications

Certification programs are highly beneficial for aspiring travel agents, as they can enhance your credentials and make you more attractive to potential employers. Key certifications include the Certified Travel Associate (CTA), Certified Travel Counselor (CTC), ASTA Verified Travel Adviser (VTA), and Accredited Cruise Counselor (ACC These certifications demonstrate your expertise and commitment to the profession, helping you stand out in a competitive market.

Certification Programs for Travel Agents
Certification Description
Certified Travel Associate (CTA) Entry-level certification that covers the basics of the travel industry.
Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) Advanced certification that indicates a higher level of expertise and experience.
ASTA Verified Travel Adviser (VTA) Certification focused on verifying the adviser's knowledge and skills in travel planning.
Accredited Cruise Counselor (ACC) Specialized certification for agents focusing on cruise travel.

Online and Offline Training Programs in Maryland

In addition to formal education, there are several online and offline training programs available in Maryland that can help you become a travel agent. These programs are designed to be flexible and comprehensive, catering to different learning styles and needs.

Community College of Baltimore County Travel Agent Training

The Community College of Baltimore County offers an online travel agent training program through its Continuing Education Workforce division. This program is divided into two modules, each consisting of 50 hours of training, covering all major facets of the field. It includes technical skills and transferable skills, making it ideal for those without prior experience. Community College of Baltimore County: - Online training program - 2 modules, 50 hours each - Technical and transferable skills

University of Maryland Eastern Shore Hospitality and Tourism Management

The University of Maryland Eastern Shore provides a strong travel agent program as part of its Bachelor of Science in Hospitality and Tourism Management. This campus-based program includes internship opportunities and collaborative experiences, offering a well-rounded education in the hospitality and tourism sector.

The University of Maryland Eastern Shore's program is particularly beneficial for those who prefer a traditional learning environment and want to gain practical experience through internships.

Benefits of University Programs

University programs like the one at the University of Maryland Eastern Shore offer several benefits, including:

Structured Learning: A traditional learning environment with structured courses and hands-on training.

Internship Opportunities: Practical experience through internships that prepare you for the industry.

Collaborative Experiences: Opportunities to work with other students and industry professionals, enhancing your network and skills.

These training programs, whether online or offline, are designed to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to thrive as a travel agent in Maryland.


how to become a travel agent in Maryland

Choosing a Host Agency

Benefits of Joining a Host Agency

Joining a host business is a crucial step in becoming a successful travel agent in Maryland. One of the primary benefits is access to an IATA number, which is essential for conducting business as a travel agent. This number allows you to book flights, hotels, and other travel services through the Global Distribution Systems (GDS

In addition to the IATA number, host agencies offer various resources and support that can significantly enhance your career. These include access to booking systems, partner programs, and marketing support, which are vital for attracting and retaining clients.

Benefits of Joining a Host Agency
Benefit Description
IATA Number Allows you to conduct business and book travel services through GDS.
Licenses and Compliance Provides necessary licenses such as the Seller of Travel License.
Booking Systems and Partner Programs Access to tools and programs that facilitate smooth and efficient booking processes.
Marketing Support Help with marketing your services to attract more clients.

Resources and Support Provided by Host Agencies

Host agencies offer a wide range of resources and support to help you succeed as a travel agent. These resources include comprehensive training programs, which cover all the foundational topics necessary to run a successful travel advisor business. For example, LuxRally Travel provides a free online travel agent training course that includes over 15 hours of video and extensive text, covering topics such as travel agent basics, leisure and group bookings, and concierge services.

The training programs often include seminars, role-play exams, and feedback sessions, ensuring you are well-prepared for the role.

Host agencies also provide ongoing training and educational opportunities, such as advanced certifications and regular partner and destination trainings. This continuous learning helps you stay updated with industry trends and best practices. Host Agency Resources: - Comprehensive training programs - Ongoing educational opportunities - Access to booking systems and partner programs - Marketing support and tools

How to Select the Right Host Agency for Your Needs

Selecting the right host business is crucial for your success as a travel agent. When choosing a host business, consider several factors. First, ensure the business aligns with your career goals and aspirations. Look for agencies that provide the necessary support and resources, such as training programs, marketing assistance, and access to booking systems.

Key Considerations for Choosing a Host Agency

Here are some key considerations when selecting a host business:

Alignment with Career Goals: Ensure the business's vision and resources align with your career aspirations.

Training and Education: Look for comprehensive training programs and ongoing educational opportunities.

Resources and Support: Consider the availability of booking systems, marketing support, and other essential tools.

Community and Network: Evaluate the sense of community and network support offered by the business.

Additionally, consider the business's reputation, the level of support they offer, and the community of fellow travel agents you will be joining. For instance, LuxRally Travel and Fora offer a supportive community where you can share experiences, receive advice, and gain support from other agents.

By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select a host business that will provide you with the tools, training, and support necessary to succeed as a travel agent in Maryland.


how to become a travel agent in Maryland

Specializing in Travel

Specialty Areas: Cruises, Destination Travel, Adventure Travel

Specializing in a specific type of travel can significantly enhance your career as a travel agent in Maryland. By focusing on niche areas, you can develop deep expertise and attract a loyal client base. Some popular specialty areas include cruises, destination travel, and adventure travel.

Destination travel specialists focus on specific regions or countries, providing detailed knowledge of local culture, attractions, and hidden gems. This specialization can be particularly appealing to clients seeking authentic and immersive travel experiences.

Specialty Areas for Travel Agents
Specialty Area Description
Cruises Expertise in cruise lines, itineraries, and onboard experiences.
Destination Travel Deep knowledge of specific regions or countries, including local culture and attractions.
Adventure Travel Specialization in planning adventure trips, such as hiking, skiing, or scuba diving vacations.

Adventure travel specialists cater to clients seeking thrilling experiences, such as hiking in the mountains or exploring underwater worlds. This niche requires a strong understanding of safety protocols and logistical planning.

Building Local Knowledge: Planning Trips in Maryland

Building local knowledge is another effective way to specialize as a travel agent in Maryland. By focusing on trips within the state, you can leverage your insider knowledge to create unique and compelling travel experiences for your clients.

For instance, you can plan foodie tours of Baltimore, highlighting the city's famous seafood restaurants and local eateries. Alternatively, you can organize nature exploration trips to Chesapeake Bay, including activities such as kayaking, bird-watching, or visiting historic lighthouses.

Local Knowledge: - Foodie tours of Baltimore - Nature exploration on Chesapeake Bay - Historical tours of Annapolis - Outdoor adventures in Western Maryland
Benefits of Local Knowledge

Having local knowledge offers several benefits:

Unique Experiences: You can create tailored itineraries that showcase the best of Maryland, making your trips stand out.

Client Trust: Local expertise builds trust with clients, who appreciate the insider tips and recommendations.

Community Engagement: You can engage more closely with local businesses and communities, fostering stronger relationships and partnerships.

By combining your local knowledge with specialized areas of travel, you can offer a unique and personalized service that sets you apart from other travel agents and attracts a loyal client base.


how to become a travel agent in Maryland

Job Placement and Career Development

Securing Job Placement with a Host Agency

Securing job placement with a host business is a crucial step in launching your career as a travel agent in Maryland. Host agencies like LuxRally Travel, Fora, and Vincent Vacations provide the necessary tools, training, and support to help you succeed. When joining a host business, you gain access to resources such as booking systems, partner programs, and marketing support, which are essential for conducting business and attracting clients.

These agencies often offer comprehensive training programs that prepare you for the role, including seminars, role-play exams, and feedback sessions. This structured training helps you transition smoothly into the job and sets you up for success from the outset. Host Agency Benefits: - Access to booking systems and partner programs - Marketing support and training - IATA number and necessary licenses - Comprehensive training programs

Continuing Education and Professional Development

Continuing education and professional development are vital for the growth and success of a travel agent in Maryland. Host agencies like Fora and LuxRally Travel offer ongoing training programs, including advanced certifications and regular partner and destination trainings. These programs keep you updated on industry trends, new destinations, and best practices, ensuring you remain competitive and knowledgeable in the field.

Ongoing Training Opportunities

Ongoing training includes:

Advanced Certifications: Enhance your skills and knowledge with specialized certifications.

Partner and Destination Trainings: Stay updated on new destinations and industry partnerships.

Seminars and Workshops: Participate in live sessions covering various aspects of the travel industry.

In addition, many host agencies provide access to a community of fellow travel agents where you can share experiences, receive advice, and gain support. This network is invaluable for continuous learning and professional growth.

Staying updated with industry developments through continuous education and networking helps you provide the best possible services to your clients and stay ahead in the competitive travel market.

Building a Client Base and Networking

Building a strong client base and networking are essential components of career development for travel agents in Maryland. Leveraging your local knowledge to plan unique trips within the state can help you attract and retain clients. For example, organizing foodie tours of Baltimore or nature exploration trips on Chesapeake Bay can showcase your expertise and build trust with your clients.

Host agencies often provide marketing support and tools to help you promote your services and attract new clients. This can include access to marketing materials, email campaigns, and other promotional resources.

Building a Client Base
Strategy Description
Local Knowledge Plan unique trips within Maryland to attract and retain clients.
Marketing Support Use marketing materials and tools provided by the host business to promote your services.
Networking Attend local travel events, participate in community activities, and use social media to build your network.

By focusing on these aspects of job placement, continuing education, and client base building, you can establish a successful and fulfilling career as a travel agent in Maryland.


how to become a travel agent in Maryland

Conclusion

Becoming a travel agent in Maryland is a rewarding and achievable career goal, filled with opportunities to turn your passion for travel into a profession. By understanding the role of a travel agent, meeting the legal requirements, and investing in the right education and training, you can set yourself up for success in this exciting industry.

The journey to becoming a travel agent involves more than just obtaining an IATA number and completing a training program; it also requires continuous learning, professional development, and building a strong client base. By leveraging your local knowledge to plan unique trips within Maryland and staying updated with industry trends, you can differentiate yourself and provide exceptional service to your clients.

Key Takeaways for Becoming a Travel Agent in Maryland
Aspect Description
Legal Requirements Obtaining an IATA number and potentially a Seller of Travel License.
Education and Training Completing a comprehensive training program through a host business or educational institution.
Specialization Focusing on niche areas such as cruises, destination travel, or adventure travel.
Local Knowledge Utilizing knowledge of Maryland to plan unique and compelling local trips.

Remember, the travel industry is dynamic and ever-evolving. Staying committed to ongoing education and professional development will be crucial to your long-term success.

Final Tips for Success

To ensure a successful career as a travel agent in Maryland:

Network and Build Relationships: Engage with other travel agents and industry professionals to build a supportive community.

Stay Updated: Continuously update your knowledge on industry trends, new destinations, and best practices.

Leverage Local Knowledge: Use your insider knowledge of Maryland to create unique travel experiences for your clients.

With the right mindset, resources, and support, you can embark on a fulfilling and rewarding career as a travel agent in Maryland, turning your passion for travel into a profession that brings joy and satisfaction to both you and your clients.

Start Your Journey: - Join a host business - Complete a training program - Specialize in a niche area - Build your local knowledge - Network and stay updated

Take the first step today, and begin your exciting journey to becoming a successful travel agent in Maryland.


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Become a Travel Agent in Annapolis

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Become a Travel Agent in Baltimore

The beautifully restored Inner Harbor of Baltimore with its spectacular 21st Century skyline greets upon arrival. Recent and on-going developments have Baltimore overflowing with museums, shops, and street festivals. Enjoy the National Aquarium locat...

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Become a Travel Agent in Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge


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Become a Travel Agent in Bowie

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Become a Travel Agent in Cambridge, MD

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Become a Travel Agent in Chesapeake Bay


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Become a Travel Agent in Chestertown

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Easton, Maryland, is a charming town, 45 mi/70 km southeast of Baltimore, full of gracious homes and alluring shops housed in well-preserved buildings from the 1700s and 1800s. Attractions include the Historical Society of Talbot County Museum, the l...

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Become a Travel Agent in Frederick

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Become a Travel Agent in Silesia

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Become a Travel Agent in Smith Island

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How to Become a
Travel Agent in
Maryland

Maryland


Maryland's "watermen"—those who make their living pulling seafood from Chesapeake Bay—are a romantic part of the state's appeal. But in a sense, all residents and visitors to the state become watermen. In a state with this much coastline, spending a lot of time by the Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean is almost inevitable. Pleasure-boaters ride the waves alongside the professional fishing crews, while others relax on the beaches or shop and sightsee in the shore towns.

The inland regions of the state have their own kind of beauty, as well, ranging from the pastoral mountains of the western panhandle region to the rolling farmland of central Maryland. All areas of the state are rich in historical landmarks, a result of Maryland's central role in the development of the U.S. And because the state is relatively compact, it's easy to enjoy both the shore and the hills without spending a lot of time going from one to the other.

Geography

Maryland's unofficial moniker is "America in miniature." The state can be divided into three sections: the far western mountain area that is squeezed between Pennsylvania and West Virginia; the central section between the Chesapeake Bay and the Potomac River that includes farmland and the metropolitan areas of Baltimore and the outskirts of Washington, D.C.; and the Eastern Shore (of the Chesapeake Bay), an area that extends to the border with Delaware and, farther south, to the Atlantic Ocean.

Forty-six rivers flow into the Chesapeake Bay, a long finger of water that reaches far into the northeastern part of the state and has 4,000 mi/6,450 km of coastline. The bay—combined with some long-ago border squabbles—has given Maryland its unusual shape.

History

Before the colonists arrived, a large and varied Native American population lived along the region's shores and waterways, often building villages beside rivers. The Chesapeake Bay was visited by a number of early European explorers, but settlement didn't begin until George Calvert, Lord Baltimore, petitioned for a royal grant to found a colony that would harbor British Catholics, who were finding their homeland less and less hospitable. The king granted the petition in 1632. Although the colony was initially governed by religious tolerance (at least for Christians), once Puritan settlers became the majority, Catholics were persecuted and, for a time, were not allowed to vote.

A spirit of independence fueled Maryland's early resistance to British rule, and the colony played an important role in the Revolutionary War. Maryland was just as active in the War of 1812—the naval battle at Fort McHenry inspired Francis Scott Key to write "The Star-Spangled Banner," the poem that would become the lyrics to the U.S. national anthem.

Maryland's importance as a center of commerce increased throughout the 1800s, especially with the construction of the Chesapeake & Ohio Canal and the Baltimore & Ohio Railroad in the 1820s. Significant segments of Maryland supported secession on the eve of the Civil War, but it didn't happen. Maryland fared well after the war, and the state prospered until the economic depression of the 1870s.

Today, the Old Line State (also called the Free State) still relies on its ports and factories for jobs and income. But it has also benefited greatly from neighboring Washington, D.C.—military and other government-related industries have been important to Maryland's economy.

Snapshot

Maryland's chief attractions include history, sailing, beaches, wildlife, white-water rafting, the Eastern Shore, Baltimore, Annapolis, the mountains, hiking, bird-watching, the U.S. Naval Academy, Chesapeake Bay, camping and deep-sea fishing.

Travelers interested in the past, outdoor activities, seafood, rolling hills, expansive beaches and watersports will have a great time in Maryland.

Potpourri

At least 95% of the soft-shell crabs consumed in the U.S. are harvested in Maryland.

The Maryland state flag, one of the country's most distinctive, had an interesting genesis. The yellow and black colors alone were initially the colors of the state, which was somewhat conflicted about its Union alignment in the Civil War. Many Confederate sympathizers adopted the red and white colors and displayed them as acts of resistance. When the state faced the delicate task of reconciling its divided citizenry after the war, the current design of the flag, incorporating all four colors, was adopted.

Bancroft Hall, on the U.S. Naval Academy campus, is the largest dormitory in the country. It has 5 mi/8 km of hallways, which pass by rooms housing every "Middie" in the Academy.

Elkton was once the marriage capital of the world. Chapels that offered no-wait weddings lined Main Street and attracted thousands of lovers, including such celebrities as Babe Ruth, Billie Holiday and Debbie Reynolds. The Historic Little Wedding Chapel, built in 1813 and the only one remaining, has been hosting weddings for at least 70 years. Today, Maryland requires a two-day wait before the marriage ceremony—a law that spelled Elkton's demise as a marriage city—though there is no required blood test.

The state's northern border is actually part of the Mason-Dixon Line. This line was marked in the mid-18th century to settle a land dispute over the colonies of Pennsylvania and Maryland. It's more commonly thought of as the division between the north and the south.

The official state sport is jousting. The state bird is, of course, the Baltimore oriole.

Kettering, a suburb east of Washington, D.C., is home to a hand-painted, hand-carved, 80-year-old carousel that's still sturdy enough for rides. It's located at Watkins Regional Park on Route 556.

All of Maryland's 400 lakes are man-made.

Maryland's official nickname, "The Old Line State," does not refer to the Mason-Dixon Line, as many assume. It is taken from Gen. George Washington's reference to the Maryland regiment as "the old line," the last and best line of defense against the British.

Maryland contained the world's first settlement where Protestants and Catholics worshipped together.




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