Getting Sandals Resorts certified

Tuesday Aug 19th was a glamorous day clear blue skies a light breeze and low humidity. Just perfect conditions to be out on a golf course but I was inside a meeting room at the Sheraton North Hotel in Sharonville OH.

I was participating in a Sandals Resorts certification class completing product specific training that many industries require of their employees. Professional development, continuing education and acquiring certifications are frequently encouraged or demanded by employers so I was joined by about 30 other agents.

So forgoing the golf course until this weekend I completed phase 1 the classroom training component of the Certified Sandals Specialist (CSS) program. We were introduced to the products and services that makes Sandals the leading “Luxury Included” premier all inclusive Caribbean resort company.

Phase two of the certification process will be the tough part. I will need to travel to Caribbean islands of Jamaica, St. Lucia, Antigua and the Bahamas. During my journeys there I will have physically inspect Sandals sleeping rooms and suites, dine in the restaurants, enjoy the water sports and golf courses. All work and no play just in the name of professionalism. Actually for me it will be both an educational and enjoyable experience.

Yes I will do this all of this in the name of certification and professionalism. It will take of couple of trips and a few bucks but the results will be worth it. I will be able to advise you the traveler or honeymooner on the advantages of a Sandals vacation discuss the pros and cons of each Sandals resort then match you with the perfect property.

Sandals is not the only company the offers specialization and certification courses. Many cruise lines, tour operators, hotels, railways, rental cars and destinations conduct training classes locally and/or on location. Professional development opportunities in the travel industry are almost limitless. I have been fortunate to complete many of these programs and recommend them to all travel agents that encounter.

Another positive outcome of this session was the opportunity to interact with travel agents from Ohio, Kentucky and Indiana. We shared plenty of stories and information like who is the best tour operator to use for a Sandals trip where are the best beaches in Mexico or the Caribbean plus the customers from hell tales. Hopefully you do not fall into that category! Good useful information that will be shared with other travelers.

It’s time to book some air flights into Montego Bay Jamaica and get phase 2 off the ground.

Happy travels! Does becoming a travel agent sound like fun? Email me at thetravelprofessor@gmail.com and I’ll answers your questions and get your new career off the ground.