The Professional Travel Agents of North America (PTANA), a new travel agent membership organization, has been formed. PTANA will be headquartered in Baltimore, MD, and includes “bona fide professional travel agents and their travel industry partners.” PTANA’s mission is to provide an educational forum and networking opportunities for travel professionals; to facilitate a strong relationship with travel industry partners; and to promote domestic and international travel.
“PTANA’s first meeting was a great success. I predict the organization will be one of the most productive trade organizations working for the benefit of its chapter members and the travel industry,” says Hortensia Joseph, regional marketing manager of the St. Lucia Tourist Board. “I feel confident in encouraging all travel industry partners to join and support PTANA.”
Agent membership is $33. At least one Specialist Program is required for membership, including domestic, international, chain hotels, cruise lines and Travel Institute Specialist Programs.
IATAN or CLIA cards are needed but the TRUE card is being accepted for 2009 membership only. PTANA hopes to encourage formation of new Chapters.
Established in January 2009, PTANA was created by and for travel agents and governed entirely by its member agents in partnership with members of the travel industry community, PTANA says. It has chapters in Maryland, the Greater Philadelphia Tri-State Area and New England, with additional chapters being formed across the U.S.
Visit www.ptana.org.