Travel Goods Specialist

Congratulations Frank. ; ) Pam

Yes, Frank - COngratulations - Well done

Congratulations.

Congrats Frank!

Yay! And henceforth known as Frank II, TGS

Way To Go!!! We all knew you had something special!!!

Congratulations!!!

Atta-boy Frank!!!

I second the motion that you should change your user name here to Frank II, TGS.

Congratulations!

Good job, Frank II! Your first task as a TGS is to design the perfect carry-on suitcase that will satisfy all airlines' requirements, yet still be rollable and wearable!! ;)

Thanks, everyone.

Norm, when the airlines decide to come up with a consistent carry-on bag policy, then a "generic" bag would be able to be designed. Right now, for your "requirements", I suggest wearing a Scottevest while riding a mini-unicycle (rollable). :)

Great news Frank! Congratulations!

I don't know whether to take your announcement as a commercial, or as a joke, Frank II....We already know you are more knowledgable than the average traveler. Up to now, I assumed this was based on experience and opinion.

I see an infomercial in the future. "Many of you may know me as Frank II, a frequent contributor to the Rick Steves Helpline. But did you know that I'm also a Travel Goods Specialist? And I'm here to talk to you about my new product, the wheeled/unwheeled bag that fits any carry on requirements worldwide. Can't believe it? Just watch-" (Cut to amazing demonstration of new bag, lots of ooha and aahs, with an attractive young co-host.)

It's neither commercial nor joke. Much of what I share is based on my experience both as a former tour director and from my own travels.

Additionally, I received training from the Travel Goods Association as a Travel Goods Specialist. Much of this was about the stuff you take with you. I had to learn, in detail, about bags and accessories, their construction, the various types of materials being used, how to help someone decide which type of bag or what accessories might be best for their preferred mode/style of travel, what additional requirements might be necessary, as in visas and passports, how to get these, how to handle emergencies on the road, etc, etc. etc.

As I plan to expand my travel writing into not just destination reports but also reviews of bags, accessories, and all other travel related areas, I felt it was prudent to get training in these areas to have some knowledge. If I can share some of that new found knowledge here, and it helps someone's travels be easier, then it was worth it.

I think it's great, although I'm sorry you don't get to have an attractive young co-host. And it does lend some more authority to the pro-moneybelt side.

Congrtats Frank II

Dont know you Frank, but congratulations. Being new to this site, it helps to know the qualifications and experience of the various posters

Congratulations Frank! Have always appreciated your thorough and knowledgable answers on this forum.

Re Karen's post, the word on the street is that he already has an attractive young co-host. :)

Frank II, I'd also like to add congratulations (albeit somewhat belated)! If you're using this for employment, hopefully the new qualifications will mean a raise!

Thanks, Ken.

Actually, self-employment mixed with entrepreneurship. It will be an added plus to a future business venture. But since commercial style postings are not allowed, that's all I can say on the matter.

Frank II, good luck and much success with your new venture!