Aptitude for figure work; accuracy; good memory; organizing ability; awareness of people, places, areas of interest; good sense of judgement; ability to handle people; up-to-date knowledge of available facilities and services; verbal fluency; aptitude for languages; friendly and personable manner and appearance; common sense; good health; interest in people and places; enjoyment of travel; willingness to work hard, long hours and on weekends and holidays.

TRAINING

With the growing professionalism and resultant competitiveness of the travel and tourism industry, greater numbers of career aspirants to this field are opting to take specialized training, to give themselves a head start in the job market. Many companies too, now prefer to hire applicants who have already gained some knowledge of the industry through professional training.

Training Institutions

A number of good institutions around the country offer training courses in different aspects of travel and tourism. The Indian Institute of Travel and Tourism Management, Delhi, provides guidelines for the standardization of curricula. It is also possible to gain these qualifications through correspondence.

Eligibility 

It undergraduate level, eligibility for admission is a Higher Secondary Certificate examination pass.

At post-graduate level, eligibility is graduation in any discipline.

Duration Of Training 

Duration of training varies between one and two years. 

Course Fee 

The cost of training depends on the length of the course and the facilities offered to students, and ranges between Rs 500 and Rs 1000 per semester. 

Academic Programme 

Training may be taken at both graduate and post-graduate level.

THE DIPLOMA COURSE IN DESTINATION MANAGEMENT

Is aimed at tourist guides. It is designed to equip students with a broad understanding of the tourism infrastructure and operations in India, as well as increase general awareness on various aspects of the country's history and culture. 

Skill training in a number of practical areas like communication and presentation, computer applications and first aid is also provided. The study of at least one foreign language and hands-on field experience is compulsory.

THE MASTER'S IN TOURISM ADMINISTRATION PROGRAMME

Provides a comprehensive study of the industry to future high-level professional managers. It includes management training as relevant to travel and tourism operations; general knowledge on aspects of India of interest to visitors; information on tourism principles; policies and practices; as well as the ethical, legal and regulatory aspects of the business. 

Proficiency in at least one foreign language is compulsory. Students are also required to undergo a two to six month's internship in a professional organization and to submit a report on their field trip.

In both cases, training is imparted in an environment that simulates actual working conditions as closely as possible, to equip students with a practical and professional approach to their future responsibilities.