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become a travel agent in Michigan
  1. How to Become a Travel Agent in Michigan
    1. Understanding the Requirements
      1. Legal Requirements for Travel Agents in Michigan
      2. No Mandatory State License or Certification
      3. Registering Your Business with the State
      4. Acquiring Necessary Permits and Licenses
    2. Choosing the Right Host Agency
      1. Importance of a Host Agency for Independent Agents
      2. Benefits of a Host Agency: Resources, Support, and IATA Number
      3. Key Considerations When Selecting a Host Agency
      4. Examples of Host Agencies: LuxRally Travel and Fora
    3. Training and Certification
      1. Comprehensive Training Programs Offered by Host Agencies
      2. LuxRally Travel's Free Online Training Course
      3. Fora's Initial Certification and Ongoing Training
      4. Preparing for the TAP (Travel Agent Proficiency) Test
    4. Building Your Skills and Knowledge
      1. Industry Basics: Terminology, Best Practices, and More
      2. Leisure and Group Bookings, Concierge Services
      3. Sales Training, Negotiating with Suppliers, and Client Service
      4. Using CRM Systems and Proprietary Booking Engines
    5. Setting Up Your Business
      1. Defining Your Business Structure
      2. Obtaining a Seller’s Permit Number
      3. Getting Municipal Permits and Paying Required Fees and Taxes
      4. Marketing Support and Community Resources
    6. Maintaining and Growing Your Career
      1. Continued Education and Advanced Certifications
      2. Networking and Community Support
      3. Annual Sales Requirements and Performance Metrics
      4. Staying Updated with Industry Trends and Events

How to Become a Travel Agent in Michigan

Becoming a travel agent in Michigan can be an exciting and rewarding career path, especially given the flourishing travel and tourism industry. With more countries opening their borders, the demand for skilled travel agents is on the rise. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you get started.

In Michigan, there are no specific licensing requirements for individuals to become travel agents. However, having the right education and training is crucial for success in this field. Many aspiring travel agents opt for degrees in fields such as business, marketing, or tourism and management, which typically take 2 to 4 years to complete.

While formal certifications are not mandatory, they can significantly enhance your credentials and career prospects. Certifications like the Certified Travel Associate (CTA) or Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) can add prestige to your resume and demonstrate your expertise in the industry.

To kick-start your career, you can enroll in online courses or training programs that cover essential aspects of the travel industry. These programs, which can take from 9 to 15 months to complete, include topics such as business management, marketing, customer service, and travel knowledge. For instance, the Travel Agent Training course prepares you for the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) test, a foundational step towards professional recognition.


how to become a travel agent in Michigan

Understanding the Role of a Travel Agent

As a travel agent in Michigan, your primary duties will include planning and booking travel arrangements for clients, such as flights, accommodations, and activities. You will also leverage your local knowledge to create unique travel experiences within Michigan, such as history tours of Detroit or visits to the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation.


how to become a travel agent in Michigan

Finding the Right Support and Training

Joining a host business is highly recommended for independent travel agents or those starting their own agencies. Host agencies provide essential resources, including an IATA number, marketing tools, educational materials, and partner programs. For example, agencies like Fora offer comprehensive training programs and certifications as part of their support.


how to become a travel agent in Michigan

Setting Up Your Business

If you plan to be self-employed or run your own travel business, you will need to comply with Michigan’s business requirements. This includes registering your business with the state, acquiring a seller’s permit number, defining your business structure, obtaining necessary municipal permits, and paying required fees and taxes.


how to become a travel agent in Michigan

Certification and Continuous Education

While certifications are not required, they are highly beneficial for career advancement. You can pursue certifications through organizations like the American Society of Travel Advisors or by taking the TAP test. Continuous education and additional certifications can help you stay updated with industry trends and enhance your skills.


how to become a travel agent in Michigan

Financial Considerations

The cost of becoming a travel agent in Michigan varies. Online certification courses can range from $700 to $1,000, while degree programs can be more expensive, with associate degrees costing between $24,000 to $32,000 and bachelor’s degrees ranging from $48,000 to $64,000. It is also important to consider the potential earnings, which in Michigan can range from $36,408 to $46,534 annually. By following these steps and investing in the right education and training, you can set yourself up for success as a travel agent in Michigan.


how to become a travel agent in Michigan

Understanding the Requirements

Legal Requirements for Travel Agents in Michigan

To become a travel agent in Michigan, it is crucial to understand the legal requirements involved. One of the key requirements is obtaining an IATA (International Air Transport Association) number, which is essential for conducting business in the travel industry. This number allows travel agencies to access direct ticket booking systems, advanced billing and settlement platforms, and other professional resources. Most host agencies, such as LuxRally Travel or Fora, provide their agents with an IATA number once they join.

No Mandatory State License or Certification

In Michigan, there is no mandatory state license or certification required to become a travel agent. However, having certifications can significantly enhance your career prospects and credibility. Certifications like the Certified Travel Associate (CTA) or Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) are highly recommended for professional benefits.

Registering Your Business with the State

If you plan to start your own travel business or work as an independent travel agent, you need to register your business with the state of Michigan. This involves defining your business structure, whether it be a sole proprietorship, LLC, or corporation. Registering your business ensures you are compliant with state regulations and can operate legally.

Acquiring Necessary Permits and Licenses

Besides registering your business, you may need to acquire necessary permits and licenses. While Michigan does not require a specific license for travel agents, you might need to obtain a seller’s permit number and comply with local municipal permits. Additionally, if you plan to cater to clients from states like Florida, California, Washington, or Hawaii, your host business should have a Seller of Travel License for these states.

Additional Requirements for Host Agencies

If you decide to join a host business, ensure it has the necessary licenses and certifications. For instance, if you aim to serve a nationwide clientele, the host business should have a Seller of Travel License for the required states.

Summary of Requirements
Requirement Description
IATA Number Provided by the host business, essential for business operations.
State Registration Register your business with the state of Michigan.
Permits and Licenses Obtain necessary permits, including a seller’s permit number and local municipal permits.
Certifications Optional but recommended for career benefits.

By understanding and fulfilling these requirements, you can set a solid foundation for your career as a travel agent in Michigan.


how to become a travel agent in Michigan

Choosing the Right Host Agency

Importance of a Host Agency for Independent Agents

For independent travel agents or those considering starting their own travel agencies, joining a host business is crucial. A host business provides the necessary resources, support, and infrastructure that can significantly enhance your career. These agencies offer access to booking systems, partner programs, marketing tools, and educational materials, all of which are essential for operating successfully in the travel industry.

Benefits of a Host Agency: Resources, Support, and IATA Number

A host business offers a multitude of benefits that are vital for a travel agent's success. One of the most significant advantages is the provision of an IATA number, which is a unique identifier that allows a travel business to conduct business. This number grants access to direct ticket booking systems, advanced billing and settlement platforms, and other professional resources. Additionally, host agencies provide comprehensive training programs, ongoing support, and exclusive deals with top travel suppliers. For instance, LuxRally Travel and Fora offer extensive training courses that include seminars on foundational topics, customer service sessions, and advanced booking systems.

Key Considerations When Selecting a Host Agency

When selecting a host business, there are several key considerations to keep in mind. First, ensure the business has a Seller of Travel License if you plan to cater to clients from states like Florida, California, Washington, or Hawaii. This license is mandatory for agencies selling travel packages to residents of these states.

Additional Licensing Requirements

While Michigan does not require a specific state license for travel agents, having the right licenses for other states can expand your client base and services.

Another important consideration is the quality and comprehensiveness of the training program offered. Look for agencies that provide both initial certification and ongoing training. For example, LuxRally Travel's training program includes over 15 hours of videos and extensive text, covering topics such as industry basics, leisure and group bookings, and sales training.

Key Considerations for Selecting a Host Agency
Consideration Description
Licensing Ensure the business has necessary licenses, especially for states like Florida, California, Washington, and Hawaii.
Training Programs Look for comprehensive training programs that include initial certification and ongoing education.
Resources and Support Check for access to booking systems, marketing tools, and partner programs.
IATA Number Ensure the business provides an IATA number for conducting business.

Examples of Host Agencies: LuxRally Travel and Fora

Two notable examples of host agencies that offer excellent resources and support are LuxRally Travel and Fora. LuxRally Travel is known for its free online travel agent training course, which includes over 50 hours of self-paced learning and a practical exam. This course covers industry basics, sales training, and how to use their proprietary booking engine, FastBook.

Fora, on the other hand, offers a one-stop shop with everything you need to get started as a travel advisor. Their initial certification program includes 40+ hours of live, small-group training and access to recordings. They also provide ongoing training programs and advanced certifications to help you grow in your career.

Both of these agencies are committed to empowering their agents with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the travel industry, making them excellent choices for anyone looking to become a travel agent in Michigan.


how to become a travel agent in Michigan

Training and Certification

Comprehensive Training Programs Offered by Host Agencies

Host agencies play a crucial role in providing comprehensive training programs for aspiring travel agents in Michigan. These programs are designed to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the travel industry. Typical training covers a wide range of topics including industry basics, geography for travel professionals, cruise line operations, airline ticketing and reservations, and customer service and sales techniques.

These training programs often include both theoretical and practical components, ensuring you are well-prepared to handle various aspects of travel planning and client service.

LuxRally Travel's Free Online Training Course

LuxRally Travel offers a highly acclaimed free online travel agent training course that is comprehensive and detailed. This course requires 50-70 hours of your time, with two-thirds of it being self-paced. The curriculum includes over 388 self-guided lessons and more than 16 hours of video content, covering topics such as travel agent basics, leisure and group bookings, concierge services, sales training, and how to negotiate with suppliers. Upon completing the course, you will need to pass a practical exam via a video conference, which includes role-play scenarios and direct feedback.

LuxRally Travel Training Curriculum
Course Component Description
The Industry Course Covers industry basics, geography, cruise line operations, and more.
Practical Exam Role-play scenarios with feedback from instructors.
The Systems Course Teaches how to use the CRM, FastBook booking engine, and other systems.
New Agent Orientation Final tips, email setup, supplier logins, and other necessary steps.

Fora's Initial Certification and Ongoing Training

Fora offers a comprehensive training program that includes an initial certification and ongoing training. The initial certification program consists of 40+ hours of live, small-group training sessions and access to recorded materials. This training covers foundational topics such as customer service sessions, the nitty-gritty of booking, and advanced sales techniques. Additionally, Fora provides ongoing training programs, including advanced certifications and regular partner and destination trainings.

Preparing for the TAP (Travel Agent Proficiency) Test

The Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) test, offered by The Travel Institute, is a highly recommended certification for travel agents. This test is designed to assess your knowledge and skills in the travel industry and is often a requirement for many host agencies. Preparing for the TAP test involves studying industry basics, geography, customer service techniques, and other critical aspects of travel planning. Many host agencies, including LuxRally Travel and Fora, provide study materials and training programs specifically tailored to help you prepare for this exam.

TAP Test Overview

The TAP test is a foundational certification that can significantly enhance your credibility and career prospects as a travel agent.

By completing these training programs and certifications, you will be well-equipped to handle the demands of a successful travel agent career in Michigan.


how to become a travel agent in Michigan

Building Your Skills and Knowledge

Industry Basics: Terminology, Best Practices, and More

To excel as a travel agent in Michigan, it is essential to have a solid grasp of industry basics. This includes understanding key terminology, best practices, and the overall functioning of the travel industry. Training programs, such as those offered by LuxRally Travel and Fora, cover these foundational topics in depth. For instance, LuxRally Travel's training course includes over 388 self-guided lessons and more than 16 hours of video content, providing insights into industry terminology, best practices, and important highlights across hundreds of brands and destinations around the world.

Understanding the industry's terminology and best practices helps you communicate effectively with clients and suppliers, ensuring smooth and efficient travel planning.

Leisure and Group Bookings, Concierge Services

Another critical aspect of building your skills is learning how to handle leisure and group bookings, as well as offering concierge services. These skills are vital for providing personalized travel experiences for your clients. Fora's training program, for example, includes seminars on leisure and group bookings, and how to provide concierge services such as securing difficult restaurant reservations and organizing unique activities.

Sales Training, Negotiating with Suppliers, and Client Service

Sales training is a crucial component of any travel agent's skill set. This involves learning how to effectively market your services, negotiate with suppliers, and provide exceptional client service. LuxRally Travel's comprehensive training program includes comprehensive sales training, teaching you how to negotiate with suppliers and service clients during their travel. This ensures you can offer competitive packages and maintain high client satisfaction.

Sales Training and Client Service Skills
Skill Description
Sales Training Learning how to market your services and close sales effectively.
Negotiating with Suppliers Understanding how to get the best deals from travel suppliers.
Client Service Providing exceptional service to clients before, during, and after their travel.

Using CRM Systems and Proprietary Booking Engines

Mastering the use of CRM (Customer Relationship Management) systems and proprietary booking engines is essential for efficient and effective travel planning. For instance, LuxRally Travel's training includes how to use their CRM and FastBook, their proprietary booking engine. Similarly, Fora provides training on their systems and tools, ensuring you can manage client relationships and bookings seamlessly.

Using CRM and Booking Engines

These systems help you manage client data, track bookings, and access partner programs efficiently.

    
      <!-- Accessing FastBook -->
      <a href="https://fastbook.luxrallytravel.com">Login to FastBook</a>
    </code>
  </pre>


By mastering these skills, you will be well-equipped to provide top-notch services to your clients and build a successful career as a travel agent in Michigan.


how to become a travel agent in Michigan

Setting Up Your Business

Defining Your Business Structure

When setting up your travel business in Michigan, one of the initial steps is to define your business structure. This involves deciding whether you will operate as a sole proprietorship, LLC (Limited Liability Company), or a corporation. Each structure has its own advantages and legal implications, so it is important to consult with a business advisor or attorney to determine the best structure for your needs.

Obtaining a Seller’s Permit Number

If you plan to sell travel services, you will need to obtain a seller’s permit number from the state of Michigan. This permit is required for any business that sells tangible personal property or services subject to sales tax. Applying for a seller’s permit is typically done through the Michigan Department of Treasury and involves providing business information and paying any necessary fees.

Steps to Obtain a Seller’s Permit Number
Step Description
Register Your Business Ensure your business is registered with the state before applying.
Apply Online or by Mail Submit your application through the Michigan Department of Treasury's website or by mail.
Provide Required Information Include business name, address, owner information, and other relevant details.
Pay Fees Pay any applicable fees associated with obtaining the seller’s permit.

Getting Municipal Permits and Paying Required Fees and Taxes

In addition to state requirements, you may need to obtain municipal permits and pay local fees and taxes. These requirements vary by city and county, so it is essential to check with your local government to determine what specific permits and licenses are needed. For example, if you are based in Detroit, you will need to comply with the City of Detroit's business licensing requirements.

Municipal Permits and Fees

Ensure you research and comply with all local regulations to avoid any penalties or fines.

Marketing Support and Community Resources

Once your business is set up, leveraging marketing support and community resources can help you grow and succeed. Many host agencies, such as LuxRally Travel and Fora, offer marketing tools, educational materials, and community support as part of their packages. These resources can include access to industry events, training programs, and networking opportunities with other travel agents.

Being part of a supportive community can provide valuable insights, tips, and connections that can help you navigate the travel industry effectively.

    
      <!-- Accessing Marketing Tools -->
      <a href="https://luxrallytravel.com/marketing-tools">Marketing Tools</a>
    </code>
  </pre>


By taking these steps, you can ensure your travel business is properly set up and ready to operate successfully in Michigan.


how to become a travel agent in Michigan

Maintaining and Growing Your Career

Continued Education and Advanced Certifications

To maintain and grow your career as a travel agent in Michigan, continued education and advanced certifications are crucial. Many host agencies, such as Fora, offer ongoing training programs that include advanced certifications and regular partner and destination trainings. These programs help you stay updated with industry trends and enhance your skills, allowing you to provide better services to your clients.

Continued Education Opportunities
Program Description
Advanced Certifications Specialized certifications that enhance your expertise in specific areas of travel planning.
Partner and Destination Trainings Regular trainings on new destinations and partner programs to keep your knowledge current.
Industry Workshops and Seminars Participate in workshops and seminars to learn from industry experts and network with peers.

Networking and Community Support

Networking and community support are vital for the growth of your career as a travel agent. Joining a host business like LuxRally Travel or Fora provides you with access to a community of fellow travel advisors who can offer support, advice, and valuable insights. These communities often host events, forums, and online groups where you can connect with other agents and industry professionals.

Being part of a supportive community can provide you with the resources and connections you need to navigate the travel industry effectively.

Community Resources

Access to agent forums, annual symposiums, and official announcements are just a few examples of the community resources available through host agencies.

Annual Sales Requirements and Performance Metrics

To maintain your status as a travel agent with a host business, you often need to meet annual sales requirements. These requirements vary by business but typically involve achieving a certain level of sales or booking volume. For example, LuxRally Travel may have specific performance metrics that you need to meet to remain active and continue receiving support and resources.

    
      <!-- Sales Requirements -->
      <p>Achieve a minimum of $50,000 in annual sales to meet performance metrics.</p>
    </code>
  </pre>


Staying Updated with Industry Trends and Events

Staying updated with industry trends and events is essential for maintaining a successful career as a travel agent. This involves attending industry conferences, workshops, and webinars. Many host agencies provide access to these events and resources to keep their agents informed. For instance, Vincent Vacations offers exclusive deals, industry resources, and cutting-edge technology to help you stay ahead.

Staying Updated with Industry Trends
Resource Description
Industry Conferences Attend conferences to learn about the latest trends and network with industry professionals.
Workshops and Webinars Participate in workshops and webinars to gain insights into new destinations, technologies, and marketing strategies.
Host Agency Resources Utilize resources provided by your host business, such as exclusive deals and cutting-edge technology.

By focusing on continued education, networking, meeting sales requirements, and staying updated with industry trends, you can ensure a successful and fulfilling career as a travel agent in Michigan.


how to become a travel agent in Michigan

Conclusion: Embarking on Your Journey as a Travel Agent in Michigan

Becoming a travel agent in Michigan is a rewarding and exciting career path that offers the opportunity to help people create unforgettable travel experiences. From understanding the legal requirements and selecting the right host business, to undergoing comprehensive training and building your skills, each step is crucial in laying the foundation for a successful career.

With the right attitude, eagerness to learn, and a strong work ethic, you can transform your passion for travel into a lucrative career. Whether you choose to join a host business like LuxRally Travel or Fora, or decide to launch your own travel business, the key is to stay committed to continuous education and professional growth.

A Career of Endless Opportunities

As a travel agent in Michigan, you will have the opportunity to plan and book travel arrangements, provide concierge services, and leverage your local knowledge to create unique travel experiences within the state. From history tours of Detroit to visits to the Henry Ford Museum of American Innovation, your expertise will be invaluable to your clients.

Support and Resources

Host agencies like LuxRally Travel and Fora offer extensive support and resources, including comprehensive training programs, marketing tools, and access to exclusive deals with top travel suppliers. These resources are designed to empower you to reach your maximum potential and ensure your success in the travel industry.

Key Takeaways for Success
Aspect Description
Continuous Education Stay updated with industry trends and best practices through ongoing training programs.
Host Agency Support Leverage the resources and support provided by your host business to enhance your skills and knowledge.
Local Knowledge Utilize your knowledge of Michigan to create unique and personalized travel experiences for your clients.
Networking Connect with other travel agents and industry professionals to build a supportive network and gain valuable insights.

Final Tips for Success

Stay flexible, be open to new opportunities, and always prioritize customer service. These traits will help you build a loyal client base and ensure long-term success in your career as a travel agent.

By following these steps and staying committed to your goals, you can build a fulfilling and successful career as a travel agent in Michigan. Remember, the journey to becoming a distinguished travel agent is rewarding, and with the right resources and support, you can achieve great heights in this exciting industry.

Good luck on your journey to becoming a travel agent in Michigan 🌟✈️


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How to Become a
Travel Agent in
Michigan

Michigan


Water. It's the reason European explorers and fur traders arrived in Michigan long before they got to many other parts of the Midwest. With shoreline on four of the five Great Lakes, Michigan was directly on the canoe routes that were the superhighways of the 1600s.

Water is also the primary reason travelers go to Michigan today. The state has vast forests, stretches of farmland, large cities and small towns, but it is water that separates Michigan from the other states—both physically and in terms of vacation opportunities. In addition to being surrounded by the small "seas" of the Great Lakes, Michigan has 11,000 inland lakes. You'll have to travel to the Atlantic or Pacific oceans to find better conditions for boating, fishing, swimming or simply taking in the shoreline scenery. Even then, Michigan can hold its own: It has far more land along the big water than most states on the East or West Coast. We think some of its coastal areas (Grand Traverse Bay, Pictured Rocks, Sleeping Bear Dunes) rank among the most beautiful in the U.S.

Geography

Geographically, Michigan is made up of the Upper and Lower Peninsulas. The Lower Peninsula resembles a mitten in shape, and its landscape ranges from virtually flat (the Saginaw River Valley) to large hills (in the northwest). The majority of the state's inland lakes are in the Lower Peninsula. The Upper Peninsula—or "U.P.," as it's called—is made up of forest and wetland areas, with rocky cliffs along parts of the Lake Superior shore and the Porcupine Mountains rising in the far west.

History

Michigan can thank the glaciers of the Ice Age for the Great Lakes: After the ice retreated, great water-filled basins were left in their wake. Native Americans moved into the region after the glaciers were gone, and the Old Copper Culture—named for the metal the people mined in Michigan's Upper Peninsula—began about 4000 BC. At the time of European contact, the principal tribes were the Ottawa, Ojibwa and Potawatomi. They lived in small bands and depended largely on hunting and fishing, though some agriculture was practiced in the southern part of the state.

After the French arrived (Etienne Brule was the first to see Michigan in about 1618), the area became important in the fur trade. The British won control of the area in 1763, but their presence was short-lived. The land that was to become Michigan supposedly passed to the U.S. in 1783, at the close of the Revolutionary War. The British held on to forts at Detroit and Mackinac until 1796, however, and retook both during the War of 1812. In 1813, Michigan came permanently under U.S. control. At that time, forests blanketed almost the entire state.

With the opening of the Erie Canal in New York in 1825, settlers began to move into the region in great numbers. After entering the Union as a free state in 1837, Michigan rapidly began to exploit its plentiful natural resources, especially timber and minerals. Jobs attracted waves of immigrants (first Germans, then Dutch, Irish, Swedes, Finns, Norwegians, Italians and Canadians). Toward the turn of the century, wealthy families from Detroit and Chicago began to vacation along the shores of Lake Michigan and on Mackinac Island—areas that are still popular travel destinations.

The shift from horse-drawn to horseless transportation is what made Michigan into a powerhouse of manufacturing. In the late 1800s, the state had a thriving carriage industry, and this know-how quickly put it in the forefront of the automobile revolution, with Henry Ford and R.E. Olds leading the way. As the car factories boomed, both black and white workers migrated from the South to fill jobs on the production lines.

With the auto industry at its core, Michigan has become an industrial center crucial to the U.S. economy. The state's dependence on automobiles and heavy industry has had its drawbacks, however: Many factories closed in the late 1970s and early 1980s, throwing people out of work. In recent years, Michigan's businesses have become more diversified, and the unemployment rate has dropped.

Michigan, especially around the Ann Arbor area, is turning itself into a technology corridor. Many of the state's universities, especially the University of Michigan, have become front-runners of the Midwest for technological research and development. Private industry in the same arena, especially biotechnology and nanotechnology, has grown in the state. Although not on par with the likes of Silicon Valley or MIT, Michigan is remaking itself as a bastion of research, invention and application of the advanced technological landscape.

Snapshot

Michigan's main attractions include the Great Lakes, Mackinac Island, Sleeping Bear Dunes, Detroit, outdoor activities (golf, hunting, waterskiing, snow skiing, hiking, sailing, canoeing, lake and river fishing, camping), waterfalls, Isle Royale National Park, the Upper Peninsula, Traverse City and gambling.

Most travelers will find something of interest in Michigan. If you're going primarily to enjoy the Great Lakes, expect chilly water temperatures even in midsummer.

Potpourri

There's a bit of friction between the residents of Michigan's two peninsulas. Those from the Upper Peninsula are often branded as "yoopers" (U.P.-ers) by those from the Lower Peninsula and are often made the butt of jokes. For their part, U.P. residents sometimes talk of forming their own state, feeling rather neglected by the populous parts of southern Michigan.

According to a Native American legend, a mother bear and two cubs swam across Lake Michigan to flee a forest fire in Wisconsin. The mother arrived safely on the far shore, but the two cubs drowned. The Great Spirit transformed the cubs into the Manitou Islands, and the mother bear became the Sleeping Bear Dunes.

The Potawatomi people of Michigan decorated their hair, clothing, body, bark wigwams and goods with paint, copper and shell ornaments. They obtained copper from the shores of Lake Superior, but the seashells came all the way from the Atlantic Coast.

With 11,000 lakes and 36,000 mi/57,600 km of rivers and streams, Michigan is a great place to fish: Among the quarry are trout, perch and coho salmon.

The Mackinac Bridge, which connects the Lower and Upper peninsulas, is 5 mi/8 km in length and one of the longest suspension bridges in the world. On Labor Day, the governor leads a walk across the bridge to salute the state's labor roots.

More than 100 lighthouses dot the Michigan coastline.

Dee Stadium in Houghton is the birthplace of professional hockey. The first organized pro hockey league played there in 1904.

The Detroit-Windsor Tunnel was the world's first international underwater vehicular tunnel. It opened in 1930.

After two successful "moose lifts" from Canada, more than 200 of the antlered giants now roam their ancestral home in the Huron Mountains in the Upper Peninsula.

The state is renowned for its autumn foliage. In late September or early October, Northern Michigan and the Upper Peninsula transform into a spectacular tapestry of oranges, reds, yellows and golds. Locals plan their weekends—and often their weddings—around the splendor of this display.




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