Fees and Documentation Needed (Affidavit, Course Completion Proof)
Travel Agent Programs in Utah
Top Local Schools and Organizations (Salt Lake Community College, Utah Valley University)
Program Curriculum (Travel Industry Fundamentals, Geography, Customer Service, Booking Systems)
Online Training Programs (Fora Travel Agent Training Program)
Certification and Accreditation
Importance of Certification for Credibility
Popular Certifications (IATA, CLIA, TRUE Credentials, ARC Agency Accreditation)
Certification Options Through Host Agencies (Fora Certification)
Working with a Host Agency
Benefits of Working with a Host Agency
Access to Booking Systems and Partner Programs
Marketing Support and Training Provided by Host Agencies
Cost and Financial Aid
Cost Range of Travel Agent Programs
Financial Aid Options (Scholarships, Grants, Student Loans)
Resources for Financial Assistance (Federal Student Aid, UHEAA)
Job Outlook and Career Growth
Expected Growth in Travel Agent Jobs by 2031
Increasing Demand for Travel Agents
How to Become a Travel Agent in Utah
Becoming a travel agent in Utah can be an exciting and rewarding career path, especially for those who are passionate about travel and helping others plan their dream vacations. To get started, it's important to understand the key steps and requirements involved in this process.
The first step involves gaining the necessary education and training. While a formal certification or accreditation is not legally required, it is highly recommended to enhance your credibility and skills. Top local schools and organizations such as Salt Lake Community College and Utah Valley University offer comprehensive programs in travel and tourism. These programs cover essential topics like travel industry fundamentals, geography, customer service, and booking systems.
Key Topics Covered in Travel Agent Programs
Topic
Description
Travel Industry Fundamentals
Understanding the travel industry, its trends, and best practices.
Geography and Destination Knowledge
Learning about various destinations, their customs, and attractions.
Customer Service and Sales Techniques
Developing skills to effectively communicate with clients and sell travel services.
Booking Systems and Software
Mastering the use of booking systems and software to manage travel arrangements.
In addition to formal education, certification can significantly boost your career prospects. Certifications like those offered by IATA, CLIA, and TRUE Credentials, as well as ARC Agency Accreditation, are highly valued in the industry. Fora Travel, for instance, offers a comprehensive training program that includes certification as part of their curriculum.
Certification is not just about compliance; it's about demonstrating your expertise and commitment to providing top-notch service to your clients.
While licensing is not mandatory in Utah, completing a pre-licensing course and obtaining a license from the Utah Department of Commerce, Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL), can add credibility to your business. This course covers critical areas such as travel law, ethics, and customer service.
What to Expect in the Pre-Licensing Course
The pre-licensing course typically includes a specified number of classroom hours followed by an examination. Applicants must also provide proof of completing the course and an affidavit stating they do not have a history of certain criminal offenses.
Finally, working with a host business can provide invaluable support and resources. Host agencies like Fora offer access to booking systems, marketing support, and ongoing training, which can be instrumental in your success as a travel agent.
Benefits of Working with a Host Agency
Access to Booking Systems: Utilize professional booking systems to manage client travel arrangements efficiently.
Marketing Support: Leverage the marketing resources and expertise of the host business to grow your client base.
Ongoing Training: Stay updated with industry trends and best practices through continuous training and seminars.
Travel Agent Duties and Responsibilities
As a travel agent in Utah, your role is multifaceted and demanding, yet highly rewarding. One of the primary duties involves researching and providing destination information to clients. This includes detailing popular tourist attractions, accommodations, transportation options, and local customs and regulations. Your knowledge of various destinations will help clients make informed decisions about their travel plans.
Another crucial responsibility is analyzing and comparing travel packages. This involves evaluating different travel deals and options to help clients find the most suitable and cost-effective choices based on their preferences and budget. Your ability to compare prices, amenities, and services will be invaluable in ensuring clients get the best value for their money.
Key Factors to Consider When Comparing Travel Packages
Factor
Description
Prices and Discounts
Evaluating the overall cost and any available discounts or promotions.
Amenities and Services
Comparing the amenities and services included in each package, such as meals, transportation, and activities.
Client Preferences
Matching the package with the client's specific preferences and needs.
Arranging travel arrangements is another significant part of your job. This includes booking flights, hotel rooms, rental cars, and other related services. Ensuring all necessary reservations and paperwork are completed accurately and efficiently is critical to avoid any last-minute complications or misunderstandings.
What to Include in Travel Arrangements
This may involve booking flights, arranging for hotel accommodations, renting cars, and organizing activities or excursions. It is essential to double-check all details to ensure a smooth travel experience for your clients.
Finally, you will also be responsible for offering guidance on travel insurance, visa requirements, and vaccination recommendations. This involves advising clients on the necessary precautions and documentation they need for their journey, ensuring they are well-prepared and compliant with all travel regulations.
Providing guidance on travel insurance can help mitigate risks associated with trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost luggage. Similarly, advising on visa requirements and vaccination recommendations ensures that clients comply with the regulations of their destination countries.
Importance of Travel Insurance and Visa Guidance
Travel Insurance: Helps protect against unforeseen events like trip cancellations or medical emergencies.
Visa Requirements: Ensures clients have the necessary documentation to enter and stay in their destination countries.
Vaccination Recommendations: Advises clients on the vaccinations they need to stay safe and healthy during their travels.
Education and Prerequisites
To embark on a career as a travel agent in Utah, you must meet certain basic prerequisites. First and foremost, you must be at least **18 years old** and possess a **high school diploma or its equivalent**. This foundational education is essential for the subsequent training and certifications you will undertake.
In addition to the age and education requirements, some programs may necessitate **entrance exams or background checks**. These additional steps are designed to ensure that candidates are well-suited for the demands of the travel industry and to maintain the integrity of the profession. Background checks, in particular, help verify that applicants do not have a history of certain criminal offenses.
Entrance Exams and Background Checks
Requirement
Description
Entrance Exams
Some programs may require candidates to pass specific exams to assess their knowledge and aptitude.
Background Checks
Conducted to ensure applicants do not have a history of certain criminal offenses, enhancing the credibility and trustworthiness of the travel agent.
While the minimum requirements are straightforward, **recommended additional education and experience** can significantly enhance your career prospects. Enrolling in travel agent programs offered by reputable institutions such as Salt Lake Community College or Utah Valley University can provide comprehensive training in travel industry fundamentals, geography, customer service, and booking systems. These programs not only equip you with the necessary skills but also offer a structured learning environment that prepares you for the real-world challenges of being a travel agent.
Benefits of Additional Education
Additional education can include specialized courses or certifications that focus on specific aspects of the travel industry, such as hospitality management or destination knowledge. This extra layer of education can make you more competitive in the job market and better prepared to handle the diverse needs of your clients.
Top Local Schools and Organizations
Salt Lake Community College: Offers a Travel and Tourism Certificate program that covers essential travel industry skills, including booking systems and customer service.
Utah Valley University: Provides a Hospitality Management program with a focus on Travel and Tourism, offering comprehensive training in travel planning and destination management.
Fora Travel: Offers a Comprehensive Travel Agent Training Program that includes seminars, ongoing training, and certification opportunities.
Investing in additional education and gaining relevant experience can significantly boost your credibility and skills, making you a more effective and sought-after travel agent.
Licensing Requirements
To become a licensed travel agent in Utah, although not mandatory, you can enhance your credibility and professionalism by meeting certain licensing requirements. The process begins with completing a **pre-licensing course**, which is offered by various approved providers. This course covers critical topics such as **travel law**, **ethics**, **geography**, and **customer service**. These subjects are essential for understanding the legal and ethical frameworks of the travel industry, as well as developing the skills needed to provide excellent service to your clients.
Pre-Licensing Course Curriculum
Topic
Description
Travel Law
Understanding the legal aspects of the travel industry, including contracts and consumer rights.
Ethics
Learning about professional ethics and best practices in the travel industry.
Geography
Gaining knowledge of various destinations, their attractions, and local regulations.
Customer Service
Developing skills to provide exceptional customer service and handle client inquiries effectively.
After completing the pre-licensing course, you will need to apply for a license through the **Utah Department of Commerce, Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL)**. This involves submitting an application, paying the necessary fees, and providing required documentation. The application process is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail to ensure all requirements are met.
Application Process for DOPL License
The application typically includes filling out a form, paying the licensing fee, and submitting proof of completing the pre-licensing course. Additionally, you may need to provide an affidavit stating that you do not have a history of certain criminal offenses.
In terms of **fees and documentation**, you will need to pay the specified licensing fee and provide proof of completing the pre-licensing course. An affidavit is also required, which involves stating that you do not have a history of certain criminal offenses. Ensuring all these documents are accurately completed and submitted is crucial for a smooth application process.
Required Documentation for DOPL License
Proof of Course Completion: Documentation from the approved provider showing that you have completed the pre-licensing course.
Affidavit: A sworn statement indicating that you do not have a history of certain criminal offenses.
Licensing Fee: The payment required to process your application.
While Utah does not mandate state-issued licenses for travel agents, obtaining one can significantly enhance your professional credibility and trustworthiness in the eyes of your clients.
Travel Agent Programs in Utah
If you are aspiring to become a travel agent in Utah, enrolling in a reputable travel agent program can be a crucial step in your career journey. Among the top local schools and organizations offering these programs are Salt Lake Community College and Utah Valley University. These institutions provide comprehensive training that equips you with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the travel industry.
Top Local Schools and Organizations
Institution
Program Description
Salt Lake Community College
Offers a Travel and Tourism Certificate program covering essential travel industry skills, including booking systems and customer service.
Utah Valley University
Provides a Hospitality Management program with a focus on Travel and Tourism, offering comprehensive training in travel planning and destination management.
The curriculum of these programs is designed to be comprehensive and practical. It typically includes courses on travel industry fundamentals, which cover the basics of the travel industry, its trends, and best practices. Additionally, you will learn about geography, focusing on various destinations, their attractions, and local regulations. Customer service is another critical component, teaching you how to effectively communicate with clients and provide excellent service. Finally, you will gain hands-on experience with booking systems, learning how to manage travel arrangements efficiently.
Program Curriculum Overview
Travel Industry Fundamentals: Understanding the travel industry, its trends, and best practices.
Geography: Learning about various destinations, their attractions, and local regulations.
Customer Service: Developing skills to provide exceptional customer service and handle client inquiries effectively.
Booking Systems: Mastering the use of professional booking systems to manage travel arrangements.
Beyond traditional classroom programs, there are also online training programs available, such as the Fora Travel Agent Training Program. These programs offer flexibility and convenience, allowing you to learn at your own pace while still gaining the necessary skills and certifications. Online training often includes seminars, ongoing training, and certification opportunities, making it an excellent option for those who prefer remote learning or have other commitments.
Benefits of Online Training Programs
Online training programs provide the flexibility to learn from anywhere, at any time, and often include interactive elements such as webinars and online workshops. This format is particularly useful for those who are already working or have other obligations.
Whether you choose a traditional classroom setting or an online training program, the key is to select a program that aligns with your learning style and career goals, ensuring you receive the best possible preparation for a successful career as a travel agent.
Certification and Accreditation
Certification is a crucial aspect of becoming a reputable and credible travel agent in Utah. While it is not mandatory, obtaining certifications can significantly enhance your professional standing and trustworthiness in the eyes of your clients. Certification for credibility is essential because it demonstrates your expertise and commitment to providing top-notch service. It sets you apart from other travel agents and can lead to more client trust and loyalty.
Certification is not just about compliance; it's about showing your clients that you are dedicated to excellence in your field.
There are several popular certifications that are highly valued in the travel industry. The IATA (International Air Transport Association) certification is one of the most recognized, as it validates your knowledge of air travel and related services. Another notable certification is the CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) certification, which is ideal for those specializing in cruise travel. Additionally, TRUE Credentials and ARC Agency Accreditation are also respected certifications that can add to your professional credentials.
Popular Certifications for Travel Agents
Certification
Description
IATA
Validates knowledge of air travel and related services.
CLIA
Ideal for those specializing in cruise travel.
TRUE Credentials
Demonstrates expertise in travel planning and customer service.
ARC Agency Accreditation
Accredits travel agencies, ensuring they meet industry standards.
Many host agencies also offer certification options as part of their training programs. For example, Fora Travel provides a comprehensive training program that includes certification. This program not only equips you with the necessary skills but also offers a recognized certification that can boost your career prospects. These certifications through host agencies often include preparation for exams like the TAP (Travel Agent Proficiency) test, which is a foundational step towards more advanced certifications like the CTA (Certified Travel Associate) or CTC (Certified Travel Counselor
Certification Through Host Agencies
Host agencies like Fora and LuxRally Travel offer free or included certification programs as part of their training. These programs are designed to be self-paced and flexible, allowing you to learn at your convenience while still gaining the necessary certifications to advance your career.
Benefits of Certification Through Host Agencies
Comprehensive Training: Includes preparation for industry-recognized exams and certifications.
Flexibility: Self-paced learning to fit your schedule.
Support and Resources: Access to ongoing training, marketing support, and a community of professionals.
Working with a Host Agency
Working with a host business is a highly recommended step for aspiring travel agents in Utah. The benefits of working with a host business are numerous and can significantly enhance your career. One of the primary advantages is the support and resources provided, which can help you establish and grow your business. Host agencies act as a backbone for independent travel agents, offering the necessary tools and expertise to succeed in the competitive travel industry.
One of the key benefits is access to booking systems and partner programs. Host agencies have established relationships with various travel suppliers, such as airlines, hotels, and cruise lines, which gives you access to their booking systems. This access enables you to book travel arrangements efficiently and offer a wider range of options to your clients. Additionally, these partner programs often include exclusive deals and discounts that can make your packages more attractive to clients.
Benefits of Access to Booking Systems and Partner Programs
Benefit
Description
Efficient Booking
Access to professional booking systems to manage travel arrangements efficiently.
Wider Range of Options
Ability to offer a broader range of travel options to clients through partner programs.
Exclusive Deals
Access to exclusive deals and discounts through partner programs.
Host agencies also provide marketing support and training that are invaluable for your success. These agencies often have experienced marketing teams that help promote your services and attract new clients. Additionally, they offer ongoing training programs that keep you updated with industry trends, best practices, and new technologies. For example, Fora's training program includes seminars, live training sessions, and access to recordings, ensuring you are always equipped with the latest knowledge and skills.
Marketing Support and Training
The marketing support includes assistance with creating marketing materials, managing social media campaigns, and other promotional activities. The training programs are designed to be comprehensive and continuous, ensuring you stay ahead in the industry.
Support and Training from Host Agencies
Marketing Support: Assistance with marketing materials and campaigns to help grow your client base.
Ongoing Training: Continuous training programs to keep you updated with industry trends and best practices.
Community Support: Access to a community of professionals who can provide support and share experiences.
Working with a host business not only provides you with the tools and resources you need but also gives you the support and guidance to build a successful career as a travel agent.
Cost and Financial Aid
The cost of becoming a travel agent in Utah can vary depending on the program you choose. The cost range of travel agent programs can be quite diverse. For instance, online programs like those offered by Penn Foster Career School can be completed in as little as 8 months and are generally more affordable, with flexible payment options to accommodate different budgets.
Cost Range of Travel Agent Programs
Program
Cost Description
Penn Foster Travel Agent Career Diploma
Affordable, self-paced online program with flexible payment options.
The Travel Academy
A condensed 3-week program with a focused curriculum.
LuxRally Travel Agent Training
Free online training program with comprehensive courses and practical exams.
To help manage these costs, there are several financial aid options available. Scholarships, grants, and student loans can be valuable resources for those looking to finance their education. Many institutions and organizations offer these forms of financial aid to support aspiring travel agents. For example, Penn Foster Career School offers various payment plans and financial aid options to make their programs more accessible.
Financial Aid Options
Scholarships and grants can provide non-repayable financial assistance, while student loans offer a more traditional financing route. It is important to explore all available options to find the best fit for your financial situation.
Types of Financial Aid
Scholarships: Non-repayable awards based on merit or specific criteria.
Grants: Non-repayable financial assistance often based on need.
Student Loans: Repayable loans with varying interest rates and terms.
In addition to these financial aid options, there are also resources for financial assistance that can help. The Federal Student Aid program and the Utah Higher Education Assistance Authority (UHEAA) are two such resources that provide guidance and support for financing your education. These organizations can help you navigate the process of applying for and managing financial aid.
Utilizing resources like Federal Student Aid and UHEAA can make a significant difference in how you finance your travel agent training program, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder your career aspirations.
Job Outlook and Career Growth
The job outlook for travel agents in Utah is promising, with several factors contributing to the growth and demand in this field. By 2031, the travel industry is expected to experience a notable increase in job opportunities for travel agents. According to projections, the travel agent sector is anticipated to see a **growth rate of around 5%** from 2020 to 2030, which is on par with the average job growth rate across all industries.
The **increasing demand for travel agents** can be attributed to several factors. One key reason is the growing tourism industry, both domestically and internationally. As more people travel for leisure and business, the need for skilled travel agents who can provide expert advice and manage complex travel arrangements is on the rise. Additionally, the rise of customized and luxury travel has created a niche market where travel agents can specialize and offer unique services that cater to individual client needs.
Factors Contributing to Increasing Demand for Travel Agents
Factor
Description
Growing Tourism Industry
More people traveling for leisure and business increases the demand for travel agents.
Complexity of Travel Planning
The need for personalized and complex travel arrangements requires the expertise of travel agents.
Rise of Customized and Luxury Travel
Travel agents can specialize in offering unique and tailored travel experiences.
Impact of Job Growth on Travel Agents
The expected growth in travel agent jobs by 2031 not only provides job security but also opens up opportunities for career advancement and specialization within the industry. As the demand increases, travel agents have the potential to build successful and fulfilling careers.
Career Growth Opportunities
Specialization: Opportunities to specialize in areas such as corporate travel, leisure travel, or luxury travel.
Career Advancement: Potential for career growth and advancement within the industry.
Job Security: Increased job security due to the growing demand for travel agents.
The future looks bright for travel agents in Utah, with a combination of job growth and increasing demand creating a robust and dynamic career environment.
Conclusion: Embarking on Your Journey as a Travel Agent in Utah
Becoming a travel agent in Utah is a rewarding and exciting career path that combines your passion for travel with the satisfaction of helping others plan their dream vacations. From the stunning natural landscapes to the vibrant cities, Utah offers a unique and dynamic environment for aspiring travel agents.
The journey to becoming a travel agent involves several key steps, from meeting the basic prerequisites such as being at least 18 years old and having a high school diploma, to completing a comprehensive training program that covers travel industry fundamentals, geography, customer service, and booking systems. While certification is not mandatory, it significantly enhances your credibility and career prospects.
Key Takeaways
Education and Training: Enroll in a reputable program to gain the necessary skills and knowledge.
Certification: Obtain certifications like IATA, CLIA, or TRUE Credentials to boost your credibility.
Host Agency: Join a host business like Fora or LuxRally Travel for support, resources, and access to booking systems.
Financial Aid: Explore financial aid options such as scholarships, grants, and student loans to help fund your education.
Final Thoughts
As you embark on this journey, remember that becoming a successful travel agent requires dedication, continuous learning, and a passion for delivering exceptional customer service. The resources and support available in Utah make it an ideal place to start your career.
With the right education, certification, and support from host agencies, you can build a fulfilling and lucrative career as a travel agent in Utah. So, take the first step today and start planning your path to success in this exciting and dynamic industry.
Utah's diverse attractions and growing tourism sector provide endless opportunities for you to create memorable travel experiences for your clients. Whether you specialize in corporate travel, leisure travel, or luxury travel, the skills and knowledge you gain will equip you to excel in your role and make a meaningful impact in the lives of your clients.
Best of luck on your journey to becoming a travel agent in Utah 🌟✈️
The world's largest concentration of natural stone arches (at least 2,000) can be found within Utah's Arches National Park, near Moab (190 mi/305 km southeast of Salt Lake City). The area's geology, combined with wind and water erosion, created these...
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At Bryce Canyon National Park, erosion has shaped colorful Claron limestones, sandstones, and mudstones into thousands of spires, fins, pinnacles, and mazes. Collectively called "hoodoos," these colorful and whimsical formations stand in horseshoe-sh...
Canyon Point falls in the center of the nature lovers’ desert playground: southern Utah. Encircled by red rock national parks, serene desert landscapes and canyons burn fiery oranges and pinks come sunrise or sunset, you’ll find only endl...
Canyonlands preserves an immense wilderness of rock at the heart of the Colorado Plateau. Water and gravity have been the prime architects of this land, cutting flat layers of sedimentary rock into hundreds of colorful canyons, mesas, buttes, fins, a...
The Waterpocket Fold, a 100-mile long wrinkle in the earth's crust known as a monocline, extends from nearby Thousand Lakes Mountain to the Colorado River (now Lake Powell). Capitol Reef National Park was established to protect this grand and colorfu...
Cedar City is located in Iron County, south of Salt Lake City, Utah, USA. For thousands of years, Cedar City was home to the ancestors of present-day southern Paiute Indians. This city was settled in 1851 by Mormon pioneers who were sent to smelt iro...
Deer Valley is a beautiful upscale ski resort town located in Utah’s Wasatch Mountain Range. It is filled with non-stop outdoor activities for the whole family such as skiing, fine dining, boutique shopping, concerts and lift-served mountain biking a...
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The huge, 1-million-acre/404,686-hectare (reduced from 1.7 million acres/687,965 hectares in 2017) Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument is a remote area of colorful plateaus, canyons and cliffs. It lies southwest of Capitol Reef National Park,...
Inhabited for thousands of years by the Paiute people and their ancestors, Ivins welcomed its Mormon brothers and birthed the dream to bring water to the Santa Clara desert. After the construction of an 8-mile canal and a reservoir to store their wat...
Just north of Arizona's State line is a town nicknamed "Little Hollywood" - famous for the filming of western movies and television series. Kanab sits in the Grand Circle, centrally located in the middle of America's greatest 10 sce...
Glen Canyon National Recreation Area (NRA) offers unparalleled opportunities for water-based and backcountry recreation. The recreation area stretches for hundreds of miles from Lees Ferry in Arizona to the Orange Cliffs of southern Utah, encompassin...
Located on the banks of the Colorado River, nestled in a fertile green valley between soaring red sandstone cliffs, the town of Moab is truly an emerald in the desert. Moab’s close proximity to several national and state parks has made it a popular d...
Located 27 mi/43 km east of Salt Lake City, Park City, Utah, was originally an old mining town, and the area still maintains a frontier feel. Shops, restaurants, lodges, art galleries and lively nightspots are housed in Victorian-style buildings. But...
On Utah Lake (the state's largest body of fresh water) and just 40 mi/65 km south of Salt Lake City, Provo is a good base from which to explore a number of scenic attractions and recreation areas, though not necessarily your best choice if a wild tim...
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Although it's a bit of a drive from other Salt Lake City ski areas, die-hard skiers shouldn't miss the opportunity to hit the slopes at Snowbasin in Huntsville, Utah, about 40 mi/65 km from Salt Lake City and 17 mi/27 km from Ogden. The powder falls ...
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Zion is an ancient Hebrew word meaning a place of refuge or sanctuary. Protected within the park's 229 square miles is a dramatic landscape of sculptured canyons and soaring cliffs. Zion is located at the junction of the Colorado Plateau, Great Basin...
There are many places in Utah that can seem as much like another world as another state. From massive rock arches to oddly shaped pillars to sheer river gorges, it's a land that has been bent by weather and time into strange, fantastic shapes.
Accordingly, many visitors to Utah will do anything—hike, bicycle, paddle, rock climb, ski or snowboard—to experience the natural wildness the state has to offer. If these kinds of adventurous activities are for you, you'll find Utah one of the premier destinations in the U.S.
There also are plenty of less arduous ways to get the lay of the land. The many national parks have well-maintained roads and moderate hiking trails that will let you take in the natural splendor without breaking much of a sweat. Or you could gaze at the red-rock canyons from the comfort of a houseboat on Lake Powell. Whatever method you choose, plan on being outside: This is a place where the most significant sights are made of sky and stone, built by wind and water rather than humans.
Geography
Much of Utah's appeal comes from its geologic and geographic wonders. The Rocky Mountains and the Colorado Plateau lie in the eastern and southern parts of the state, with the Colorado and Green rivers and the San Rafael Swell (an immense uplift of stone) adding to the rugged appearance of the area. To the north lies the Basin and Range region, which includes the Wasatch Mountains and the Great Salt Lake.
History
Humans, in fact, didn't arrive in the area until about 15,000 years ago (the equivalent of about 10 minutes in the life of a rock). Between AD 500 and AD 1200, Utah was inhabited by two principal groups, the Fremont (in the central part of the state) and the Anasazi (whose territory covered the Four Corners area of present-day Utah, Arizona, New Mexico and Colorado). After both peoples came to somewhat mysterious ends, the nomadic Ute, Shoshone and Paiute occupied most of the Great Basin desert, which includes a large region of Utah. Extraordinarily adaptable to the harsh environment, they were hunters and gatherers who depended primarily on the seasonal harvests of wild plants, supplementing their diet with hunting, fishing and trapping. The Navajo also moved into what would become the southeastern part of the state.
Franciscan missionaries arrived in 1776. The area wasn't truly settled by those of European descent, however, until Brigham Young led the members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (often referred to as Mormons) to the Salt Lake Valley. Seeking a haven from the often violent religious intolerance they had experienced in the East, these pioneers established Salt Lake City in July 1847. Settlements spread throughout the region, which was soon christened the Territory of Deseret.
The isolation the pioneers sought was short-lived. The U.S. acquired the region from Mexico in 1848, and the Territory of Utah was created in 1850. The completion of the transcontinental railroad (the final golden spike was driven at Utah's Promontory Summit in May 1869) brought many new settlers to Utah. Even though Utah petitioned to join the Union five times, it was only in 1896, after polygamy was banned, that the territory was admitted.
In the past century, Utah's natural beauty has led to the establishment of national parks, monuments and recreation areas. As a result, tourism has become a driving economic force in the state.
Snapshot
Utah's main attractions include world-class skiing, spectacular desert and mountain scenery, mountain biking, river rafting, Salt Lake City, Mormon history, hiking, the Great Salt Lake, Monument Valley, dinosaur fossils, Lake Powell and many national parks—including Bryce Canyon, Canyonlands, Arches and Zion.
Utah will especially appeal to those travelers who enjoy the outdoors. Snow sports, fishing, hiking, mountain climbing, mountain biking, rock climbing, golf and scenic driving are popular pastimes. Travelers seeking the diverse pleasures of a major city or lively nightlife may find the state less to their liking. Though Salt Lake City is by no means a dull or small town, it's more sedate than many cities of its size.
Potpourri
You may have seen arches and spires, but until you visit Goblin Valley State Park, you probably haven't seen rock formations that resemble trolls.
Vernal has a bank built of bricks delivered one by one via parcel post—the postal rate was cheaper than the railroad freight charges.
True to its name, the geological formations at Kodachrome Basin State Park near Cannonville are brightly colored. Be sure to take along a camera.
Hardy travelers with lots of time might want to follow the Old Pony Express Trail, which goes between Salt Lake City and the Nevada border. A four-wheel-drive vehicle is essential.
In 1993, antelopes were returned to Antelope Island State Park in the Great Salt Lake. About 30 pronghorn antelope, which last inhabited the island in 1933, were resettled there. Later, they were joined by elk and bison. The island also has 16 mi/26 km of trails for hikers, mountain bikers and horseback riders.
The sport of white-water river running began in Utah.
Nearly 80% of Utah's land is controlled by the government for public use. The Bureau of Land Management and the National Forest Service have extensive holdings and oversee recreation areas, trails, scenic drives, campsites and more.
The Aerospace Museum at Hill Air Force Base between Ogden and Roy has an SR-71 Blackbird plane, the fastest ever built.
The town of Beaver has a historical park honoring its most famous native: Philo T. Farnsworth, the father of television.
In 1879, a group of 250 Mormons set out to found a new settlement in southeastern Utah, a trip they expected to last six weeks. Six months later, they ended their wandering after an arduous journey that forced them to carve a road down a near-vertical cliff. The place of their descent is Hole-in-the-Rock on Lake Powell, and part of their route can be followed on the Hole-in-the-Rock Road through the Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument.
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A luxury train, beautiful scenery, top notch service….these are all the things I think about when I think how can I start this blog about the experience of Rocky Mountaineer.
My journey started in ...
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!