Summary
Suppliers provide their own training, webinars, and certifications
Certifications are optional but valuable for building expertise
Supplier BDMs (Business Development Managers) are dedicated supplier reps who support advisors with product knowledge, availability, and booking help
FAM trips available at Pro tier (invite/eligibility-based)
Supplier training helps you sell their products more effectively
Access increases as you book more with specific suppliers
Types of supplier training
Webinars & product training
Format | Details |
Live webinars | Scheduled sessions on products and destinations |
On-demand content | Pre-recorded training available anytime |
Product updates | New ships, properties, itineraries |
Sales tools | How to position and sell products |
Supplier certifications
Aspect | Details |
Purpose | Demonstrate expertise in specific brands/products |
Requirement | Usually online courses + tests |
Benefits | Credibility, deeper knowledge, sometimes perks |
Examples | Cruise line certifications, destination specialist programs |
Certifications are optional. They can help build expertise and client confidence but are not required.
Fam trips
Aspect | Details |
What they are | Fam (familiarization) trips—free or heavily subsidized travel so advisors can experience a property, cruise, or destination firsthand before recommending it to clients |
Eligibility | Typically Pro status advisors |
How offered | Invite-based, varies by supplier |
Benefit | Personal experience to share with clients |
Working with BDMs
What BDMs do
Business Development Managers (BDMs) are supplier representatives who support travel advisors.
Support Type | Examples |
Product expertise | Detailed knowledge of properties/products |
Availability questions | Checking specific dates/inventory |
Pricing help | Rate questions, promo clarification |
Complex itineraries | Multi-stop, special requests |
Training | Webinar invites, education |
Problem resolution | Issue escalation |
How to connect with BDMs
Method | Details |
Supplier directory | Contact information in Fora resources |
Community | Ask peers for BDM contacts |
Supplier websites | Many have agency portals with contacts |
Events | Meet BDMs at partner events (Advanced+) |
Building BDM relationships
Best Practice | Why It Matters |
Book their products | Shows you're a real partner |
Attend their webinars | Demonstrates interest |
Ask good questions | Shows professionalism |
Follow up properly | Respect their time |
Supplier training by category
Hotels
Training type | Examples |
Brand certifications | Marriott, Hilton, Hyatt programs |
Luxury program training | Virtuoso, Signature content |
Property familiarization | Individual property deep dives |
Cruises
Training type | Examples |
Line certifications | Royal Caribbean, Celebrity, Viking, etc. |
Ship walkthroughs | Virtual or in-person tours |
Product updates | New ships, itineraries |
CLIA membership | CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association)—industry organization that provides cruise-specific certifications and training; unlocks at Pro status |
Tours & Experiences
Training type | Examples |
Operator training | Specific tour company programs |
Destination certifications | Country/region specialist programs |
DMC education | DMC (Destination Management Company) training—learning local ground operators who handle transfers, guides, and curated experiences in a specific region |
Value of supplier training
For you
Deeper knowledge: sell products more effectively
Confidence: answer client questions accurately
Efficiency: faster booking process
Relationships: BDM connections for support
For clients
Better recommendations: you know the products
Insider knowledge: tips and insights to share
Problem-solving: know who to contact for issues
Common scenarios
If... | Then... |
You want to specialize in cruises | Take cruise line certifications |
You need help with a complex hotel booking | Contact the hotel's BDM |
You want to learn about a specific destination | Look for destination specialist programs |
You're booking with a new supplier | Check for their training first |
You've reached Pro status | You may be invited to Fam trips |
FAQs
Do I have to get certified?
No. Certifications are optional but can build expertise and credibility.
How do I find supplier training?
Check Fora resources, supplier websites, and community recommendations.
Are certifications free?
Many are free; some may have costs. Check specific programs.
How long do certifications take?
Varies from a few hours to several weeks depending on the program.
When can I go on FAM trips?
FAM trips are typically available to Pro advisors (invite/eligibility-based).