Tennessee State University Travel Agent Certification
Chattanooga State University Travel Agent Certification
University of Tennessee Knoxville Hospitality and Tourism Management Degree
Online Training and Courses
Finding the Right Host Agency
Benefits of Working with a Host Agency
Resources and Support Provided by Host Agencies
How to Choose a Host Agency
Building Your Travel Agency Business
Setting Up Your Own Agency
Marketing and Advertising Strategies
Networking and Building Client Relationships
Day-to-Day Operations as a Travel Agent
Booking Flights and Accommodations
Organizing Activities and Excursions
Handling Client Inquiries and Problems
Staying Updated on Travel Advisories and COVID Policies
Financial Aspects and Compensation
Earning Commissions and Fees
Managing Client Payments and Records
Negotiating with Tour Operators and Resorts
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Misconceptions About Being a Travel Agent
Career Growth and Opportunities
Challenges and Solutions in the Industry
How to Become a Travel Agent in Tennessee
Becoming a travel agent in Tennessee can be a rewarding and exciting career path, especially if you have a passion for travel and helping others plan their dream vacations. As a travel agent, you will have the opportunity to work with diverse clients, recommend travel destinations, and handle all the logistics of trip planning, from booking flights and accommodations to organizing activities and excursions.
In Tennessee, you do not need a formal license to become a travel agent, but having at least a high school diploma or GED is a prerequisite to start your career. While certification is not mandatory, it is highly recommended to enhance your credibility and job prospects. Certification programs, such as those offered by Tennessee State University and Chattanooga State University, can provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in this field.
As a travel agent, your duties will include recommending travel destinations, warning clients about potential hazards, staying updated on travel advisories, booking travel and lodging, and negotiating with tour operators and resorts to get the best deals for your clients.
The role of a travel agent is multifaceted and requires a blend of customer service skills, geographical knowledge, and the ability to solve problems efficiently. For instance, you will need to create detailed itineraries that include entertainment, events, and must-see attractions, as well as handle any issues that arise during the client's trip, such as flight cancellations or emergencies.
Working with a host business is a common practice for many travel agents in Tennessee. Host agencies provide essential resources, including access to booking systems, partner programs, marketing support, and training. They also provide the necessary IATA number, which is a unique identifier that allows a travel business to conduct business.
Financially, being a travel agent in Tennessee can be rewarding. The average hourly wage is $17.63, and the average annual salary is $53,679, which is on par with national averages. Salaries can vary by location within the state, with cities like Nashville and Memphis offering slightly higher average salaries.
To get started, you can explore various training programs available in Tennessee. For example, the University of Tennessee Knoxville offers a comprehensive Hospitality and Tourism Management degree, while online courses like the Travel Agent Proficiency (TAP) test preparation can be completed at your own pace and include the registration fee for the TAP test.
Understanding the Role of a Travel Agent
Key Responsibilities and Duties
As a travel agent in Tennessee, your primary role involves planning and booking travel arrangements for clients. This encompasses a wide range of responsibilities, including booking flights, accommodations, and organizing activities and excursions. You will also handle all the logistics of trip planning, ensuring that every detail is taken care of to make the client's trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Your duties may also include warning clients about potential hazards, staying updated on travel advisories, and managing any issues that arise during the client's trip, such as flight cancellations or emergencies. Additionally, you will leverage your local knowledge to plan trips within Tennessee, such as music tours of Nashville or nature exploration in the Great Smoky Mountains, using your insider intel to create unique and memorable experiences for your clients.
Skills and Qualities Required
To be successful as a travel agent, you need to possess a combination of skills and qualities. Strong customer service skills are essential, as you will be working closely with clients to understand their vacation needs and preferences. You must also have excellent communication skills, both verbal and written, to effectively communicate with clients and travel partners.
Geographical knowledge is another critical aspect, as you will need to be familiar with various destinations and travel options. Problem-solving skills are also vital, as you may need to handle unexpected issues that arise during a client's trip. Moreover, being organized and detail-oriented will help you manage multiple bookings and itineraries efficiently.
Client Interaction and Relationship Building
Building strong relationships with clients is at the heart of being a successful travel agent. You will need to be empathetic and understanding, taking the time to listen to your clients' needs and preferences to tailor travel plans that meet their expectations. Trust and reliability are key in this role, as clients are entrusting you with planning their vacations and ensuring their travel experiences are memorable.
Effective client interaction involves not only planning the trip but also providing ongoing support and assistance throughout the travel process. This could include answering questions, addressing concerns, and making any necessary adjustments to the itinerary.
Networking and building relationships with other travel professionals, such as those at host agencies, tour operators, and resorts, can also enhance your ability to provide exceptional service to your clients. Attending industry events and conferences can help you stay connected and informed about the latest travel trends and opportunities.
Key Skills for a Travel Agent
Skill
Description
Customer Service
Handling client inquiries and providing excellent service.
Communication
Effective verbal and written communication with clients and travel partners.
Geographical Knowledge
Familiarity with various destinations and travel options.
Problem-Solving
Managing unexpected issues that arise during a client's trip.
Organization
Managing multiple bookings and itineraries efficiently.
Legal and Regulatory Requirements
Obtaining an IATA Number
To conduct business as a travel agent in Tennessee, you need to obtain an IATA (International Air Transport Association) number. This unique identifier is crucial for booking travel arrangements and earning commissions. Typically, you do not need to obtain this number independently, as most travel agents work with a host business that provides access to the IATA number.
Working with a Host Agency
Joining a host business is a common and highly recommended step for aspiring travel agents in Tennessee. A host business offers a range of resources and support, including access to booking systems, partner programs, marketing support, and comprehensive training. These agencies also provide the necessary IATA number, allowing you to earn commissions on the travel you book.
Host agencies like Fora and Vincent Vacations offer extensive training programs that cover foundational topics such as customer service, booking processes, and industry-specific knowledge. These programs often include live seminars, access to recordings, and ongoing training opportunities to help you stay updated and skilled in the industry.
Benefits of Working with a Host Agency
Benefit
Description
Access to Booking Systems
Ability to book flights, accommodations, and activities through professional systems.
Partner Programs
Collaborations with airlines, hotels, and other travel providers to offer exclusive deals.
Marketing Support
Assistance in promoting your services and attracting clients.
Comprehensive Training
Extensive training programs to enhance your skills and knowledge.
IATA Number
Obtaining the necessary IATA number to conduct business and earn commissions.
No Licensing Requirements in Tennessee
Unlike some other professions, becoming a travel agent in Tennessee does not require any formal licensing or accreditation from the state. However, while not mandatory, obtaining certifications such as the Certified Travel Associate (CTA) or Certified Travel Counselor (CTC) can significantly enhance your career prospects and credibility.
While a high school diploma or GED is not strictly required, having some form of education can be beneficial in preparing you for the role and its demands.
This lack of licensing requirements makes it easier for individuals to enter the field, but it is important to invest in training and certification to ensure you have the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed as a travel agent.
Education and Certification
Importance of Travel Agent Certification
Certification, although not mandatory, is highly encouraged for aspiring travel agents in Tennessee. Obtaining a certification can significantly enhance your career prospects and credibility in the industry. It demonstrates your commitment to professional development and your mastery of the necessary skills and knowledge to provide excellent service to clients.
Certified travel agents are often preferred by clients and host agencies, as they have proven their expertise through rigorous training and testing.
Available Certification Programs in Tennessee
Tennessee offers several certification programs and educational pathways that can help you become a well-prepared and certified travel agent.
Tennessee State University Travel Agent Certification
Tennessee State University does not specifically offer a travel agent certification program, but you can explore related courses in hospitality and tourism that can provide a solid foundation for your career. However, there are other institutions and online courses that fill this gap effectively.
Chattanooga State University Travel Agent Certification
Similar to Tennessee State University, Chattanooga State University may not have a dedicated travel agent certification program. However, you can look into their hospitality and tourism courses, which can be beneficial in preparing you for the role of a travel agent.
University of Tennessee Knoxville Hospitality and Tourism Management Degree
The University of Tennessee Knoxville offers a comprehensive Hospitality and Tourism Management degree program. This degree provides a thorough education in the principles of hospitality and tourism, including travel planning, customer service, and industry operations. While not a specific certification, this degree can equip you with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel as a travel agent.
Certification and Education Programs in Tennessee
Program
Description
University of Tennessee Knoxville Hospitality and Tourism Management Degree
A comprehensive degree program covering hospitality and tourism principles, including travel planning and customer service.
Online Training and Courses
In addition to traditional educational programs, there are several online training courses available that can prepare you to become a certified travel agent in Tennessee. These courses are designed to be flexible and can be completed at your own pace.
The Travel Agent Training course, offered by institutions such as the University of Tennessee and Memphis, prepares you for the TAP (Travel Agent Proficiency) test. This course includes over 40 hours of live and recorded training sessions, covering foundational topics such as customer service, basic geography, and the items/products sold by travel counselors. The registration fee for the TAP test is included with this course.
TAP Test Preparation:
- Selling skills
- Basic geography
- Travel products and services
LuxRally Travel also offers a free online travel agent training course that takes 50-70 hours to complete. This course includes comprehensive training on industry basics, sales training, and practical exam preparation. Upon completion, you will be fully licensed and insured, ready to start your career as a travel agent.
Course Curriculum Overview
The LuxRally Travel course covers topics such as travel agent basics, leisure and group bookings, concierge services, and sales training. It also includes practical exam preparation and access to ongoing education courses and a supportive community of luxury travel agents.
Finding the Right Host Agency
Benefits of Working with a Host Agency
Working with a host business is a highly recommended step for aspiring travel agents in Tennessee. One of the primary benefits is the access to an IATA number, which is essential for conducting business and earning commissions. Host agencies also provide a plethora of resources and support that can significantly enhance your career as a travel agent.
Resources and Support Provided by Host Agencies
Host agencies offer comprehensive support to help you succeed in the travel industry. This includes access to professional booking systems, partner programs with major travel providers, and extensive marketing support to help you promote your services and attract clients.
Resources Provided by Host Agencies
Resource
Description
Booking Systems
Access to professional systems for booking flights, accommodations, and activities.
Partner Programs
Collaborations with airlines, hotels, and other travel providers to offer exclusive deals.
Marketing Support
Assistance in promoting your services and attracting clients through various marketing strategies.
IATA Number
Obtaining the necessary IATA number to conduct business and earn commissions.
Host agencies also provide ongoing training and educational resources to keep you updated on industry trends and best practices, ensuring you remain competitive and knowledgeable in the field.
How to Choose a Host Agency
Choosing the right host business is crucial for your success as a travel agent. When selecting a host business, consider the level of support they offer, the quality of their training programs, and the range of resources available to you.
It is important to look at the business's reputation, their commission structures, and the type of marketing support they provide. Some host agencies, like Fora and Vincent Vacations, offer extensive training programs that include live seminars, access to recordings, and ongoing training opportunities.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Host Agency
When evaluating host agencies, consider factors such as:
- The level of support and resources provided
- The quality and flexibility of their training programs
- Their reputation within the industry
- The commission structures and any fees associated
- The type of marketing support they offer
Networking with current agents and attending industry events can also provide valuable insights into which host agencies are highly regarded and offer the best opportunities for growth and success.
Key Questions to Ask:
- What kind of training and support do you offer?
- What is the commission structure?
- What marketing support do you provide?
- How do you handle client inquiries and issues?
Building Your Travel Agency Business
Setting Up Your Own Agency
If you decide to set up your own travel business in Tennessee, there are several steps you need to take. First, you will need to register your business and obtain any necessary licenses, although Tennessee does not require a specific travel agent license. You will, however, need to obtain an IATA number, which can typically be provided by a host business if you choose to work with one.
Steps to Register Your Travel Agency
Step
Description
Choose a Business Name
Select a unique and memorable name for your travel business.
Register with the State
File the necessary paperwork to register your business with the state of Tennessee.
Obtain Local Permits
Secure any required local permits or licenses to operate your business.
Marketing and Advertising Strategies
Effective marketing and advertising are crucial for building a successful travel business in Tennessee. You need to develop a solid marketing strategy that includes both online and offline tactics. Utilize social media platforms to reach a broader audience, create engaging content, and run targeted ads to attract potential clients.
Building a strong online presence through a professional website and active social media accounts can help you reach more clients and build your brand. Consider offering special promotions, discounts, or exclusive packages to attract new clients and retain existing ones.
Marketing Tips:
- Use social media to engage with your audience
- Create a professional website
- Run targeted ads
- Offer special promotions and discounts
Networking and Building Client Relationships
Networking and building strong client relationships are vital components of a successful travel business. Attend industry events, conferences, and local business meetings to connect with other professionals in the travel industry. These connections can lead to partnerships, collaborations, and valuable referrals.
Client relationships are built on trust and excellent customer service. Take the time to understand your clients' needs and preferences to tailor travel plans that exceed their expectations. Regular communication and follow-up after trips can help in building long-term relationships and securing repeat business.
Tips for Building Client Relationships
- Listen to your clients' needs and preferences
- Provide personalized travel plans
- Maintain regular communication
- Follow up after trips to ensure client satisfaction
- Offer loyalty programs or exclusive deals to repeat clients
Day-to-Day Operations as a Travel Agent
Booking Flights and Accommodations
One of the core responsibilities of a travel agent in Tennessee is booking flights and accommodations for clients. This involves using professional booking systems provided by your host business to secure the best rates and options for your clients. You will need to be familiar with various airlines, airports, and hotel chains to make informed decisions and ensure that your clients' travel plans are seamless.
Tools for Booking Flights and Accommodations
Tool
Description
Booking Systems
Professional systems provided by host agencies to book flights, accommodations, and activities.
Partner Programs
Collaborations with airlines, hotels, and other travel providers to offer exclusive deals and discounts.
Organizing Activities and Excursions
In addition to booking travel and accommodations, you will also be responsible for organizing activities and excursions for your clients. This could include recommending local attractions, booking guided tours, or arranging for special experiences such as concerts or outdoor adventures. Leveraging your local knowledge of Tennessee can be particularly valuable here, as you can suggest unique experiences like music tours of Nashville or nature exploration in the Great Smoky Mountains.
Understanding your clients' interests and preferences is key to planning activities and excursions that they will enjoy. This involves active communication and a willingness to tailor each itinerary to the individual client's needs.
Handling Client Inquiries and Problems
Client service is a critical aspect of being a travel agent. You will need to handle client inquiries, answer questions, and resolve any issues that arise during the planning or execution of a trip. This could include managing flight cancellations, accommodation changes, or other unexpected problems that may occur.
Client Service Tips:
- Respond promptly to client inquiries
- Be proactive in resolving issues
- Maintain clear and effective communication
Client Communication Strategies
Effective communication involves being empathetic, understanding, and transparent. Regular updates and follow-ups can help build trust and ensure client satisfaction.
Staying Updated on Travel Advisories and COVID Policies
Staying informed about travel advisories and COVID-19 policies is essential for ensuring the safety and smooth travel experience of your clients. You need to regularly check updates from government travel advisories, health organizations, and travel industry bodies to advise your clients accordingly.
Travel advisories can change frequently, so it is crucial to have reliable sources of information and to communicate these updates clearly to your clients.
Resources for Travel Advisories and COVID Policies
Resource
Description
Government Travel Advisories
Official updates from government websites on travel safety and restrictions.
Health Organizations
Guidelines and updates from health organizations such as the CDC and WHO.
Travel Industry Bodies
Information from industry associations and travel councils on the latest travel policies.
Financial Aspects and Compensation
Earning Commissions and Fees
Commission Structure Example
Service
Commission Rate
Flight Bookings
5-10% of the total cost
Hotel Bookings
10-15% of the total cost
Customized Itineraries
Flat fee or percentage-based
Managing Client Payments and Records
Effective management of client payments and records is crucial for maintaining a smooth and transparent financial process. You will need to handle client payments securely, ensure all transactions are recorded accurately, and maintain detailed records of each booking and payment.
Using professional booking systems and accounting software provided by your host business can simplify this process. These tools help in tracking payments, generating invoices, and managing client records efficiently.
Key Financial Management Tools:
- Professional booking systems
- Accounting software
- Secure payment processing
Negotiating with Tour Operators and Resorts
Negotiating with tour operators and resorts is an essential skill for a travel agent. By building strong relationships with these partners, you can secure better rates, exclusive deals, and special perks for your clients. This can make your services more competitive and attractive to potential clients.
Tips for Negotiating with Suppliers
- Build strong relationships through regular communication
- Attend industry events to network with suppliers
- Leverage the resources and support of your host business
- Be clear and transparent about your needs and expectations
Negotiating skills also involve understanding the market rates, knowing the value you bring to the supplier, and being able to articulate this value effectively. This can help you secure favorable terms that benefit both you and your clients.
Strong negotiation skills can significantly impact your ability to provide competitive pricing and exclusive offers, enhancing your reputation as a reliable and skilled travel agent.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common Misconceptions About Being a Travel Agent
There are several common misconceptions about being a travel agent that it's important to address. One of the most prevalent is that the role of a travel agent is becoming obsolete due to online booking platforms. However, travel agents provide a level of personal service, expertise, and customization that online platforms cannot match.
Travel agents offer valuable insights, recommendations, and problem-solving skills that are invaluable to clients planning complex or special trips. They also handle the intricacies of travel planning, such as managing bookings, cancellations, and changes, which can be time-consuming and stressful for individuals to handle on their own.
Career Growth and Opportunities
The career of a travel agent in Tennessee offers significant growth and opportunities. As you gain experience and build your client base, you can expand your services to include specialized travel planning, such as luxury travel, corporate travel, or niche travel like music tours or outdoor adventures.
Career Growth Opportunities
Opportunity
Description
Specialized Travel Planning
Focus on luxury travel, corporate travel, or niche areas like music tours or outdoor adventures.
Building a Client Base
Develop a loyal client base through excellent service and personalized travel plans.
Networking and Partnerships
Establish partnerships with other travel professionals and suppliers to enhance your services.
Challenges and Solutions in the Industry
Like any profession, being a travel agent comes with its challenges. One of the main challenges is handling the unpredictability of travel, such as flight cancellations, natural disasters, or health crises like the COVID-19 pandemic.
Addressing Travel Disruptions
To address these challenges, it is crucial to stay updated on travel advisories and industry news. This involves regularly checking updates from government travel advisories, health organizations, and industry bodies. Effective communication with clients is also key; keeping them informed and providing solutions to any issues that arise can build trust and loyalty.
Key Strategies for Handling Challenges:
- Stay updated on travel advisories and industry news
- Maintain clear and effective communication with clients
- Have contingency plans in place for unexpected disruptions
Building strong relationships with suppliers and other travel professionals can also help in navigating these challenges. These networks can provide valuable support and resources to help you manage any issues that arise.
Conclusion
Becoming a travel agent in Tennessee is a rewarding and fulfilling career path that combines your passion for travel with the satisfaction of helping others create unforgettable experiences. From understanding the role of a travel agent to navigating the legal and regulatory requirements, education, and day-to-day operations, each step is crucial in building a successful career.
Whether you choose to work with a host business or venture out on your own, the key to success lies in your dedication to continuous learning, excellent customer service, and effective communication. The travel industry is dynamic and ever-changing, so staying updated on travel advisories, industry trends, and best practices is essential.
Key Takeaways for Aspiring Travel Agents
Aspect
Importance
Continuous Learning
Stay updated on industry trends and best practices.
Customer Service
Provide excellent service to build client relationships and trust.
Effective Communication
Maintain clear and transparent communication with clients and suppliers.
Host Agency Support
Leverage the resources and support provided by host agencies.
As you embark on this journey, remember that becoming a successful travel agent in Tennessee requires a combination of hard work, dedication, and a genuine passion for travel. By choosing the right host business, completing relevant training programs, and focusing on client satisfaction, you can build a fulfilling and lucrative career in this exciting industry.
Final Tips for Success
- Stay committed to your goals
- Continuously improve your skills and knowledge
- Build strong relationships with clients and suppliers
- Utilize the resources provided by your host business
- Keep your clients informed and satisfied
With the right mindset and support, you can turn your passion for travel into a rewarding career that brings joy and satisfaction to both you and your clients.
Remember:
- Passion for travel
- Commitment to learning
- Excellent customer service
- Effective communication
So, take the first step today and start your journey to becoming a travel agent in Tennessee. The world of travel is waiting for you, and with hard work and determination, you can make your dreams a reality.
Ashport Landing provides a picturesque passage into the National Historical Landmark of Fort Pillow. Enjoy the views of the Mississippi River's rolling headlands as you enter a piece of United States Civil War History.
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Clarksville Tennessee is a blend of metropolitan and a healthy dose of small town charm. Clarksville offers something different to all who have a desire to travel outside the norm. Its artistic repertoire ranges from world class theatres a...
Pioneers crossed Cumberland Gap, Tennessee, as they traveled the Wilderness Road to the West, thanks in large part to Daniel Boone's explorations. Today, Cumberland Gap National Historic Park is the second-largest in the country, with more than 20,00...
Dover offers some of the most historic sites in American history. History enthusiasts can visit important Civil War sites, such as the Dover Hotel where General Buckner surrendered to General Grant in 1862, and Fort Donaldson National Battlefield whe...
Sitting at the edge of the Smoky Mountains, Gatlinburg, Tennessee, and its neighbors Pigeon Forge and Sevierville form the busiest tourism hub in eastern Tennessee. The area is popular with vacationing families, and its many wedding chapels also draw...
Great Smoky Mountains National Park is in eastern Tennessee (near Gatlinburg, 160 mi/260 km east of Nashville) and is shared with North Carolina. The Smoky Mountains get their name from the bluish haze that has always clung to them, and they're thoug...
Located 165 mi/265 km east of Nashville, Knoxville, Tennessee, is the largest city in eastern Tennessee and the third-largest in the state. Knoxville features a skyline of steel and glass skyscrapers. You may want to begin your visit to Knoxville at ...
The Land Between the Lakes recreation area in the northwestern part of Tennessee (on the border with Kentucky and 70 mi/113 km northwest of Nashville) is surrounded by Lake Barkley and Kentucky Lake. Within its 170,000 acres/69,000 hectares of rollin...
For visitors, the pretty countryside around Lynchburg, Tennessee, in the south-central part of the state is famous for one thing more than any other: whiskey. Lynchburg's main stop is the Jack Daniel's Distillery. Tours of the distillery are offered ...
Memphis is known as the home of Elvis Presley and as birth place of the blues. Don't forget to travel down Beale Street and listen to some of the worlds best blues bands. Hike, bike, golf, go for a balloon ride and take tours through the history of E...
The medium-sized town of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, about 35 mi/55 km southeast of Nashville, is the site of Stones River National Battlefield, where a crucial Civil War engagement was fought in late December 1862 and early January 1863. The bloody thr...
Nashville is the perfect destination for all kinds of visitors - from music lovers to history buffs to Southern lovers to sports enthusiasts and nature lovers. Nashville is the Country Music capital of the world. Have fun searching through the past o...
Native Americans forged the route of the Natchez Trace Parkway through the forests and marshes of the South, largely following the well-worn paths that buffalo and other animals began making more than 8,000 years ago. Toward the end of the 1700s, the...
Oak Ridge, Tennessee, is the mysterious city the federal government built as part of the Manhattan Project, which produced the atomic bomb in the early 1940s. The once-top-secret Graphite Nuclear Reactor, the world's first, is now a national landmark...
Just north of Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge, Tennessee, is one big strip of motels, fast-food and family-style restaurants, outlet malls and theaters. The most popular draw in the area is Dollywood, the theme park owned by entertainer Dolly Parton, who ha...
Savannah is lies on the Savannah River and it is one of the oldest cities in the US state of Georgia. Savannah is an industrial center as well as an important seaport in the Atlantic region. There are plenty of attractions in the city, including the ...
Shiloh National Military Park, Tennessee, is a must-see for any Civil War or American-history buff: You can almost hear the battle cries of the soldiers who fought there. Located in the southern part of the state, near Savannah and 115 mi/185 km sout...
Tennessee's tranquil rural landscapes unfold across the state, from the rich black fields along the Mississippi to the lush horse farms of central river valleys, to the Appalachian Mountains with their forests and plowed furrows of red dirt. It's fitting that the home of country music has so much country left to enjoy.
Even Tennessee's largest urban areas have a connection with the land that's rare in cities of their size. Memphis sprouted from the cotton lands and still shows the signs, and Nashville became famous by marketing the music of the southern countryside.
Where Tennessee seems least rural is in tourist centers such as Pigeon Forge and Gatlinburg, where miles of miniature-golf courses, amusement centers and motels seem to be intent on overrunning the stoic Smoky Mountains. Not to worry, though: The mountains will endure, as will the state's rural charm. Travelers who can appreciate both, or who are interested in the styles of music that have grown so well in the Tennessee dirt, are likely to have a great time in the state.
Geography
Along the Mississippi River, the state is relatively flat, but it becomes increasingly steep as you go east. In the central part of the state, rolling hills are broken by several mountainous areas. The highest and most rugged terrain is found in the Appalachian Mountains, along the eastern border.
History
Long before Elvis, prehistoric Native Americans known as the Temple Mound Builders thrived in Tennessee and other areas of the mid-South. Their villages and elaborate earthworks began to dot the region around AD 700, but by the 1600s, their towns had been abandoned. Later Native American groups to settle in the area included the Cherokee in the eastern part of the state and the Chickasaw in the west.
Spanish explorer Hernando de Soto visited the site of Memphis in 1540, and the French built Fort Assumption in the same area in the early 1700s. In the 1770s, English colonists began to settle in the northeastern part of the region that would become Tennessee, many of them coming by way of the Virginia colony. In 1776, Tennessee became a county of North Carolina and many residents joined the rebellion against British rule. After the Revolutionary War, the Tennesseans staged a rebellion of their own. They formed the independent state of Franklin, which for four years attempted to function autonomously. The experiment failed, however, and Tennessee joined the Union in 1796.
Once they were in the Union, Tennesseans found it hard to break out: Though the state seceded during the Civil War, thousands of its residents fought for the North. In parts of the state, neighbors found themselves on opposite sides of the conflict. Several major engagements were fought in Tennessee, including the Battle of Shiloh, the Battle of Stones River and some skirmishes around Chattanooga. Tennessee was the first Confederate state to rejoin the U.S. at the war's end.
In the 20th century, Tennessee underwent a physical and economic transformation through the massive projects of the Tennessee Valley Authority. The agency oversaw the construction of a series of dams that tamed the Tennessee River, opening up new land for development, providing inexpensive hydroelectricity for homes and industry, and creating lakes for recreational use. Manufacturing would soon overtake agriculture and mining (though both are still important) as the main engine of the state's economy. And, of course, music—the blues and rock 'n' roll in Memphis and country music in Nashville—would not only provide jobs and revenue, but also make Tennessee famous around the world.
Snapshot
Tennessee's main attractions include country music, Graceland, mountains, historical sites, Memphis, The Hermitage, home cooking, Nashville, the Great Smoky Mountains, the National Civil Rights Museum, friendly people, outdoor activities, arts and crafts, and river running.
Travelers interested in U.S. history, popular music and green mountain scenery will have a great time in Tennessee. Those who aren't wowed by natural beauty and who aren't interested in southern culture will find the state less to their liking.
Potpourri
The country-music industry was born in Tennessee, but not in Nashville. Bristol, which sits on the Tennessee-Virginia border, was the place where the first big stars of country—Jimmie Rodgers and the Carter Family—made their initial recordings in 1927.
If the other Civil War battle sites in the state leave you wanting more, you may want to seek out Fort Donelson National Battlefield Park in Dover. There, Union forces, under Gen. Ulysses S. Grant, won their first major victory of the war.
The state's moderate climate and rich soil have produced a number of award-winning wineries and vineyards. The most decorated of the bunch is Beachaven Winery & Vineyards in Clarkesville, just 30 minutes north of Nashville, near the Kentucky state line.
A memorial to country-music star Patsy Cline stands at the site where Cline and several other performers died in an airplane crash in 1963. It's located off Highway 641 near Camden.
The best place to see the famous Tennessee walking horses is in the area around Shelbyville, where several farms are devoted to raising the graceful creatures.
Tennesseean Alex Haley is buried at his boyhood home in Henning, about 45 mi/72 km northeast of Memphis. It is now a museum (with memorabilia and family artifacts) honoring the Pulitzer Prize-winning author of Roots and ghostwriter of The Autobiography of Malcolm X. Haley is also honored by a statue in Knoxville, where he lived for many years.
Memphis' Lorraine Hotel, site of the murder of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., is preserved as part of the National Civil Rights Museum.
The Rugby Historic British Colony in Rugby preserves a rural colony founded in the 1880s by author Thomas Hughes. (Many of the original Victorian buildings still stand.) It was a utopian community designed to aid the younger sons of British noble families, who were often subjected to inheritance laws that granted the family fortune to the oldest son.
In Dayton, you can visit the courthouse where evolutionists and creationists battled it out in the famous 1925 Scopes Monkey Trial.
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We are a proud USA-based, 100% female-owned business. Operating completely debt-free, we offer you the stability and peace of mind you deserve when booking your dream vacation.
Top 20 Signature Agency
As a Top 20 Agency with the elite Signature Travel Network, we unlock exclusive perks, upgrades, and amenities for you that you can't find anywhere else.
Decades of Expertise
Serving clients since 2013 with leadership selling travel since 2002. Our team of professionals brings decades of real-world travel experience to your itinerary.
Serving All 50 States
While we have physical storefront locations you can visit, we are fully equipped to book travel for clients residing in every state across the USA.
Book with Confidence
We are a company that can be trusted. We advocate for you from the moment you book until you return home, ensuring a seamless experience.
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!