Thursday, February 21, 2013

Start A Tour Business In Las Vegas

Las Vegas tour businesses may tour city sights or desert destinations.


Las Vegas has long been known as a business-friendly location. Lenient tax laws for businesses include no corporate income tax, no tax on corporate shares, no business inventory taxes and competitive employer payroll taxes, according to the "Las Vegas Examiner." Because millions of people visit Las Vegas each year attracted to the bright lights and excitement, starting a tour business can lead to a steady clientele. Don't rely on luck for business success. Instead, use careful research and planning to build a profitable enterprise.


Instructions


1. Apply for business permits and licenses. Las Vegas requires numerous start-up permits. You'll need to establish a business type, whether it's a sole proprietorship, partnership or corporation. Your tour business may require a fictitious name certificate depending on what name you pick, and you'll need a state business license issued through the Department of Taxation. If you plan to sell souvenirs, apply for a retail license. Apply for a Las Vegas city business license from the Department of Finance and Business Services.


2. Visit local tour operators to observe tour routes, travel destinations, pricing scales and reservation rules. Take several tours to get a sense of whether you prefer scripted guides or more informal, off-the-cuff remarks. Some tour companies avoid monologues altogether, operating more as a transportation vehicle for customers who'd rather not navigate traffic.


3. Write tour routes. In-town Las Vegas tours might include iconic casinos, famous restaurants and ongoing entertainment shows. Some customers may want to venture on tours based in Las Vegas that explore nearby attractions, including the Grand Canyon, Hoover Dam, Red Rock Canyon, Lake Mead and the Colorado River.


4. Lease or purchase tour vehicles. Large buses may work well for long-distance treks, but some customers want the elegance of a stretch limousine or oversize SUV for their tour. Desert tours may involve ATV or off-road vehicles, and clients may want to view the Grand Canyon from a helicopter. Save money by purchasing second-hand vehicles, but ensure that they'll reliably transport customers. Many guests will want air-conditioned vehicles during the summer heat.


5. Introduce yourself to travel agents, event bookers and hotel concierge staff so that Las Vegas professionals know that your tour business is opening. Offer complimentary tours so that bookers feel confident in sending clients your way. Consider paying reservationists a percentage for each booking completed.







Tags: business license, customers want, Grand Canyon, tour business, tour routes