How to become a travel agent in How To Become A Travel Agent In New York Travel Trends
If you are considering a career as a travel agent in New York, understanding the current and projected travel trends in the city is crucial. New York City, known for its vibrant culture, iconic landmarks, and diverse attractions, is on the cusp of a significant tourism resurgence.
In 2024, New York City welcomed nearly 65 million visitors, marking the second-highest figure in the city's history and a 3.5% increase from the previous year. This growth is a strong indicator of the city's economic recovery and its enduring appeal as a global tourist destination.
Check out our Frequently Asked Questions about becoming a travel agent in New York.
Read the FAQ
There are so many opportunities as a travel agent. Click here to see our preferred suppliers list that shows off what you can sell as a travel agent with Vincent Vacations.
"New York City remains a dynamic hub for tourism, drawing tens of millions of visitors from around the globe and bringing in $79 billion in economic impact," said Mayor Eric Adams. "Whether visiting for business or pleasure, the five boroughs have everything you need, from conference halls to theatres to restaurants and hotels — New York City remains the heartbeat of innovation, culture, and opportunity."
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.For 2025, projections indicate that New York City is set to break its previous tourism record, with an anticipated 68 million visitors. This figure surpasses the pre-pandemic record of 66.6 million visitors in 2019 and marks a full economic recovery for the city's tourism sector.
| Year | Visitor Numbers | Economic Impact |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | Nearly 65 million | $79 billion |
| 2025 (Projected) | 68 million | Expected to exceed pre-pandemic levels |
Seasonal variations play a significant role in New York City's tourism landscape. While summer is a peak season, winter remains popular due to attractions like Broadway shows. The Broadway Collection for 2025 includes an array of exciting shows, from beloved classics to innovative new plays, ensuring there is something for all theater enthusiasts.
Check out our preferred suppliers list. From luxury to safaris to Hawaii, you can sell all our suppliers and their experiences to your clients in New York and anywhere in the US!
Our Suppliers ListThe tourism sector's recovery has had a profound impact on the local economy. Visitor spending in 2023 exceeded $48 billion, up 1.3% from 2019, despite fewer visitors. This spending generated a record $4.9 billion in sales and other tourism-related tax revenue for the city in fiscal year 2024. The industry supports over 388,000 leisure and hospitality jobs, approximately 9% of the city’s workforce.
The economic activity spans multiple sectors, including accommodations, dining, entertainment, sports, live theatre, arts and cultural attractions, retail, and transportation. This impact benefits thousands of small and minority-owned businesses across all five boroughs.
Understanding these trends and factors is essential for anyone looking to become a travel agent in New York. It not only highlights the city's resilience and appeal but also provides valuable insights into how to effectively market and cater to the diverse needs of tourists.
New York City is poised to break its previous tourism record in 2025, with projections indicating a visitation of 68 million people. This figure surpasses the city’s record from 2019, which saw 66.6 million visitors. This significant growth highlights the city's strong recovery and its enduring appeal as a global tourist destination.
| Year | Projected Visitor Numbers |
|---|---|
| 2019 | 66.6 million |
| 2025 | 68 million |
The tourism landscape in New York City is characterized by a mix of domestic and international visitors. In 2024, the city saw a 3.5% increase in visitor numbers, with nearly 65 million tourists, marking the second-highest figure in the city's history. Domestic visitors are expected to see a significant increase of 12.9% from 2023 to 2025, while international visitors, although still down 20.3% from 2019, are also on the rise.
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.International visitors play a crucial role in New York City's tourism sector. While the numbers are still recovering from pre-pandemic levels, certain countries stand out as top sources of international visitors. These include the UK, Canada, Brazil, and several European nations, which consistently rank among the top international tourist destinations for New York City.
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
What started as a side gig has lead to a full-time career that I absolutely love! I truly believe there is nothing like travel and I love what I do. I am SO thankful for everyone that has supported me and trusted me to help plan their adventures. I have made some awesome lifelong friends and look forward to traveling together!
The top 10 countries by share of visitor spending in New York City include the UK, Canada, Brazil, and several European countries. Understanding these demographics can help travel agents tailor their services to meet the specific needs of these visitors.
"New York City remains a dynamic hub for tourism, drawing tens of millions of visitors from around the globe and bringing in $79 billion in economic impact," said Mayor Eric Adams. This economic impact underscores the significance of tourism in the city's overall economy.
The diverse and growing visitor base makes New York City an exciting and dynamic market for travel agents, offering numerous opportunities to cater to a wide range of interests and preferences.
Summer in New York City is a vibrant and energetic time, attracting a large number of tourists. The period from June to August is considered high season, with warm weather and long days that are perfect for outdoor activities. However, this also means larger crowds and higher prices for accommodations and attractions.
| Activity | Description |
|---|---|
| Street Festivals | Various festivals and fairs take place in different neighborhoods, showcasing local culture and cuisine. |
| Outdoor Concerts | Free concerts in parks like Central Park and Prospect Park attract both locals and tourists. |
| Movie Screenings | Outdoor movie screenings in parks provide a unique entertainment experience. |
Fall and winter in New York City are marked by a plethora of exciting events that draw visitors from around the world. The US Open, held in late August and early September, is a major tennis tournament that attracts sports enthusiasts. New York Fashion Week, typically occurring in September, is a highlight for fashion enthusiasts, with events and shows taking place across the city.
The holiday season, from Thanksgiving to New Year’s, is another peak period. The city transforms into a festive atmosphere with iconic events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade and the Christmas tree lighting in Rockefeller Center. These events make the fall and winter seasons ideal for travel agents to offer specialized packages and promotions.
"Fall is a spectacular time to visit New York. It’s the best of every world: comfortable temperatures, mostly clear skies, colorful fall foliage, and smaller crowds," notes a local travel writer. This makes it an excellent time for walking tours and exploring the city’s cultural attractions.
Kristin Williams
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
At this time last year this was a dream job. Now this once dream job is a successful reality! This was the best way to kickoff 2025 with an invite to the top 50 agents! I am so excited for 2025 travel! I love seeing your smiling faces traveling and enjoying this beautiful earth!
Spring in New York City, from March to May, is a time of rejuvenation and offers a milder climate perfect for outdoor activities. The cityscape is dotted with blooming flowers, especially the cherry blossoms in the Brooklyn Botanic Garden. Easter parades and the opening of rooftop bars signal the start of the al fresco dining season.
| Event | Description |
|---|---|
| Easter Parades | Colorful parades and events celebrate the Easter season in various neighborhoods. |
| Tribeca Film Festival | A prestigious film festival that attracts film enthusiasts and industry professionals. |
| Gallery Openings | Various art galleries across the city host new exhibitions and openings, showcasing local and international artists. |
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.Each season in New York City offers unique opportunities and challenges for travel agents, allowing them to tailor their services to meet the diverse interests and preferences of their clients.
Inflation has significantly impacted travel budgets, particularly for lower- and middle-income travelers. High prices for accommodations, food, and other travel-related expenses have deterred some travelers from planning trips to New York City. According to recent surveys, lower-income Americans are more likely to be dissuaded by high prices, with 72% of restaurants in New York City reporting lower sales due to the economic conditions.
| Income Group | Travel Budget Impact |
|---|---|
| Lower-Income | Significantly reduced due to high prices and inflation. |
| Middle-Income | Affected by high lodging costs and caution over spending. |
| High-Income | Budgets are bigger, with a 6% to 13% increase in spending planned. |
Hotel rates in New York City have seen a significant rise, reflecting the strong demand for accommodations. The average daily rate (ADR) for NYC hotels has increased to $358, with some periods, like September, seeing rates as high as $351. Despite the high rates, hotels are experiencing strong occupancy, with many reporting 100% occupancy during peak periods like the US Open and New York Fashion Week.
The strong occupancy rates are a testament to the city's appeal, even with higher prices. Travel agents can capitalize on this by offering packages that include hotel stays and other attractions to make the trip more affordable and appealing.
Hotel Occupancy and Rates
The spending habits of high-income and low-income travelers differ significantly in New York City. High-income travelers are more willing to spend on premium experiences, such as luxury hotels, fine dining, and exclusive events. In contrast, low-income travelers are more budget-conscious and often seek out more affordable options, which can be challenging given the current economic conditions.
International travelers, particularly those from countries like China, spend significantly more on average, with Chinese visitors spending around $3,000 per trip, roughly double what visitors from the UK spend. This highlights the potential for targeting high-spending demographics to maximize revenue.
The disparity in spending habits underscores the importance of understanding the economic factors influencing travel decisions to provide targeted and effective travel services.
Broadway remains one of New York City's most enduring and popular attractions. The return of theatre crowds has been a significant boost to the city's tourism sector. Nearly all Broadway stages are now occupied, indicating a strong recovery from the pandemic-era closures. This resurgence is not only beneficial for the theatre industry but also for surrounding businesses, such as restaurants and hotels, which see increased traffic due to the revival of Broadway shows.
"Broadway businesses are feeling a lift as theatre crowds return," notes a report from the NYC Hospitality Alliance. This trend is expected to continue, making Broadway a key focus for travel agents looking to package attractive theatre experiences for their clients.
| Statistic | Description |
|---|---|
| Occupancy | Nearly all Broadway stages are now occupied. |
| Impact on Local Businesses | Increased traffic for restaurants and hotels surrounding the theatres. |
Times Square, known as the "Crossroads of the World," continues to be a major draw for tourists. Despite a summer lull in pedestrian traffic, the area has seen significant growth in the fall, with October pedestrian counts up 8.5% compared to the previous year. This increase reflects the area's enduring appeal and its ability to attract visitors year-round.
Launched by industry veterans, Vincent Vacations is working to carve out a niche as a boutique, community-driven agency designed by advisors, for advisors.
Become a travel agent with no experience! We provide the education for you to learn and become successful at your own pace.The summer lull in pedestrian traffic was offset by a strong rebound in the fall, indicating that Times Square remains a vibrant and attractive destination for tourists.
New York City is constantly evolving with new attractions that captivate visitors. One of the newest and most exciting additions is the Skylift at Rockefeller Center. This innovative attraction offers panoramic views of the city from a unique perspective, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of New York.
This attraction adds to the rich tapestry of experiences available in New York City, providing travel agents with another compelling reason to recommend the city to their clients.
"The Skylift at Rockefeller Center is a game-changer for tourists," said a local tourism official. "It offers an unparalleled view of the city and is a great addition to our already diverse range of attractions."
These popular destinations and attractions make New York City an exciting and dynamic place for tourists, offering a wide range of experiences that cater to different interests and preferences.
Experience-based travel is on the rise in New York City, with visitors increasingly seeking out immersive and authentic experiences. Food and drink events, such as festivals and culinary tours, are particularly popular. For instance, the Feast of San Gennaro, which attracts over a million visitors, is a highlight of the fall season, offering a rich cultural and culinary experience.
| Event | Description |
|---|---|
| Feast of San Gennaro | A fall festival attracting over a million visitors, featuring Italian-American culture and cuisine. |
| Broadway Shows | Theatre productions that draw large audiences and support local businesses. |
Technology is transforming the travel experience in New York City, with AI playing a crucial role in travel recommendations. AI-powered tour guides can provide hyper-personalized itineraries based on a traveler's preferences and interests. This technology helps visitors feel like locals by recommending off-the-beaten-path attractions and experiences that align with their tastes.
These guides can customize each itinerary to include unique experiences such as immersive art installations, historical exhibitions, or tech-enabled adventures. This approach enhances the travel experience by making it more tailored and memorable.
AI-Powered Tour Guides
"Visitors increasingly want to feel that they are experiencing New York as a local would," notes a travel industry analyst. "AI-powered tour guides are helping to make this a reality by providing highly personalized and immersive experiences."
Heather Huber
Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
It's been over a year now since I fully switched careers to travel and I couldn't be happier. I am thankful for those who have helped me grow this dream job into a reality and the support my Vincent Vacations family has given me! Thank you to everyone who has trusted me to help with their vacations, it truly is my passion!
Sustainability and eco-tourism are becoming increasingly important in New York City's travel landscape. Visitors are showing a greater interest in nature, wellness, and outdoor activities. This trend is reflected in the increased visits to parks within the city, with Manhattan’s High Line park projected to receive seven million visits this year.
| Initiative | Description |
|---|---|
| Park Visits | Increased visits to parks like the High Line, reflecting a growing interest in nature and outdoor activities. |
| Wellness Retreats | New spas and wellness retreats offering relaxation and wellness experiences. |
These emerging trends highlight the evolving preferences of travelers and the innovative ways in which New York City is responding to meet these new demands.
In the digital age, social media and online platforms are crucial tools for travel agents looking to promote New York City as a destination. By leveraging platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, travel agents can create engaging content that highlights the city's diverse attractions and experiences. For instance, sharing stunning visuals of iconic landmarks, cultural events, or unique dining experiences can captivate potential travelers and drive interest in visiting New York City.
Using hashtags like #NYCTourism or #VisitNYC can increase the visibility of posts and attract a wider audience. Additionally, collaborating with local influencers or bloggers can provide authentic perspectives on the city, making the travel experience feel more genuine and appealing.
Collaborating with local businesses and events is a powerful strategy for travel agents to enhance their offerings and provide a more immersive experience for their clients. Partnering with restaurants, museums, and other local attractions can allow agents to offer exclusive deals, behind-the-scenes tours, or special access to events. For example, a travel agent could arrange a private tour of the Met or a special dinner at a renowned restaurant, making the trip more memorable and unique.
"Local partnerships are key to delivering authentic and memorable experiences," notes a travel industry expert. "By working closely with local businesses, travel agents can offer tailored packages that reflect the true essence of New York City."
| Business/Event | Potential Collaboration |
|---|---|
| Restaurants | Exclusive dining experiences or special access to chef's tables. |
| Museums | Private tours or early access to new exhibitions. |
| Local Events | Special tickets or VIP access to events like Broadway shows or festivals. |
Leveraging city-wide tourism campaigns is another effective strategy for travel agents to promote New York City. The city's tourism board often launches large-scale campaigns to attract visitors, and travel agents can align their marketing efforts with these initiatives. For example, the "NYC Tourism + Conventions" campaign anticipates a record number of visitors for 2025 and provides a wealth of promotional materials and resources that travel agents can use to attract clients.
Travel agents can also benefit from the economic impact and visibility generated by these large events. By offering tailored packages and experiences tied to these events, agents can capitalize on the increased interest in visiting New York City.
By combining these strategies, travel agents can effectively market New York City and attract a diverse range of travelers, ensuring a successful and enjoyable trip for all clients.
Becoming a travel agent in New York City is an exciting and rewarding career path, especially given the city's robust and evolving tourism landscape. As we've explored, New York City is poised to break records in 2025, anticipating over 68 million visitors, with a strong mix of domestic and international travelers. This growth underscores the city's enduring appeal and the numerous opportunities available for travel agents to tailor unique and memorable experiences for their clients.
"New York City remains a dynamic hub for tourism, drawing tens of millions of visitors from around the globe and bringing in $79 billion in economic impact," said Mayor Eric Adams. This statement encapsulates the city's significance as a premier travel destination and the potential for travel agents to make a meaningful impact.
Travel agents can leverage emerging trends such as experience-based travel, technology integration, and sustainability initiatives to create compelling packages. For instance, offering AI-powered tour guides or promoting eco-friendly attractions can cater to the changing mindsets and behaviors of travelers. These innovative approaches not only enhance the travel experience but also position travel agents as forward-thinking and client-centric professionals.
| Trend | Opportunity |
|---|---|
| Experience-Based Travel | Offer immersive cultural, food, and drink experiences. |
| Technology Integration | Utilize AI for personalized travel recommendations. |
| Sustainability Initiatives | Promote eco-friendly attractions and activities. |
As New York City continues to evolve, travel agents must stay adaptable and innovative. By focusing on local partnerships, leveraging city-wide tourism campaigns, and embracing new technologies, agents can provide unparalleled experiences that meet the diverse needs of modern travelers.
The future of tourism in New York City looks incredibly bright, with opportunities for growth and innovation at every turn. For those interested in becoming travel agents, this is an exciting time to join the industry. By understanding and capitalizing on the city's unique trends and attractions, you can build a successful and fulfilling career that brings joy and memorable experiences to countless travelers.
Embrace the dynamic nature of New York City's travel trends, and you will find a career that is not only rewarding but also constantly evolving and full of new possibilities.
Click below to learn more and apply to be a travel agent in New York Travel Trends today.
Apply Now
Travel Agent
Independent Travel Agent with Vincent Vacations
Shelley Plum
Helping Busy Couples Plan Couples Getaways, Anniversary Trips and Honeymoons
Independent Travel Agent
Disney Specialist
Vincent Vacations - Authorized Travel Agent In New York Travel Trends Vacation Planner
Questions? Call us at
1 (888) 883-0460
For Groups of 10
or more rooms, or 8 or more Cabins, please use of Group Form
Click Here for our Group Department
Vincent Vacations is an award winning travel agency. We serve clients all over the US.
Learn more about:
How to become a travel agent!
We are an IATAN, CLIA, ASTA, IATA Accrediated Travel Agency
See all awards & certificates.
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.
All of these are signs that you are a great fit to become an independent travel agent, and turn your love of travel from passion into profit!
Learn MoreOur 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.
Destination weddings, Anniversaries, vow renewals, honeymoons, engagements, elopements, retie the knot, babymoons, proposal trips and more
Corporate group retreats and incentive trips, seniors-only river cruises, friends & family getaways, special group anniversary celebrations and more
All-inclusive resorts, Hawaii, cruises, Europe, African Safaris, exotic Fiji and the islands, there are so many travel options for families
Adventures by Disney, Disney Cruise Lines, Disney World, Disneyland, Disney Resorts, Aulani, Universal, MyDisneyExperience, Disney Genie, characters dining, and more
We know Europe! Paris, London, Rome, Florence, Barcelona, Swiss Alps, Prague, Amsterdam, Venice, Athens, Vienna, Madrid, let's go!
Ocean cruising, river cruising, yacht charters, expeditions, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian, Viking, Lindblad, there are so many options when it comes to cruising
We create custom travel itineraries and trips, and we know travel - Whether it's Universal, river cruises, safaris, yacht charters, Australia, Thailand and more!
Get A Free QuoteWe serve customers all across the USA
Debt free and in business since 2013. Vincent Vacations has agents in Dallas, Kansas City, Houston, Shreveport, Little Rock, Roswell, Oklahoma City and more locations.
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.
In business since 2013, we are your #1 source for travel!
Free Vacation Package Quote
