How to Travel with Confidence

I feel so privileged every day to work with the most dedicated group of professionals in the travel and tourism industry: the tour operator members of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA). What’s so special about them? Only tour operators who meet the highest standards of care, integrity, and insurance can become members of USTOA. These US-based companies take travelers to the farthest corners of the earth, offering unparalleled access, peace of mind, and protection every step of the way.

And, each one cares deeply about their guests, travel advisor partners, and the world around them.  As we work to recover from the health and economic blows of this year, tour operators will become even more important to enabling Americans to travel with confidence once again.

Here are just six benefits to traveling with one:

1. Protect Your Trip

The $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program protects your trip when you book with a USTOA tour operator. Companies must qualify for the program to become a member, which, among other requirements, stipulates that in the case of a company’s bankruptcy or insolvency, all your tour payments are protected up to an aggregate of $1 million dollars.

2. Travel Confidently

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, USTOA has released a set of health and sanitization guidelines specifically for tour operators. The TOURCARE Guidelines were developed in partnership with the Canadian Association of Tour Operators (CATO) and the European Tourism Association (ETOA) to provide uniform guidelines for our combined membership, suppliers, and, yes, even passengers. After all, travel is a shared experience and each part of a packaged tour has a responsibility to keep fellow travelers and the communities they visit safe.

3. Have Peace of Mind

If unforeseen problems arise, a tour escort, local host, or representative is always there to assist travelers. Vacations that are planned by trusted industry professionals bring this peace of mind when traveling domestically or abroad.  Case in point, during times of political unrest, like the Arab spring uprisings nearly 10 years ago, or the pandemic we’re facing today, tour operator members have worked together to bring passengers home safely. One member chartered a private plane and called other tour operator members with guests in the same country to help carry them back, too. It’s one extraordinary example of cooperation and collaboration between our members.

4. Save Money

By buying in bulk and negotiating special rates for accommodations, transportation, meals, and more, tour operators can offer substantial savings to the traveler. Plus, prepaying for trips allow travelers to budget for vacations with greater certainty. Every cost and inclusion is presented upfront, and there’s a convenience of “one-stop shopping” for the vacation, rather than booking every hotel, meal, and bus separately.

5. Find Variety and Flexibility

Solo travelers, multi-generational families, and the most adventurous guests can find an itinerary that fits their interests with thousands of trips to choose from. Many itineraries are flexible and can be custom-made to allow for freedom to explore a destination on your own or add on new experiences.

6. Gain Unparalleled Access

With insider information that is not in any guidebook, on-the-ground experts bring a unique perspective to the trip and find the best hidden gems to share with guests. By negotiating with local companies and hard-to-visit attractions, guides offer a new level of accessibility. Locally crafted itineraries take travelers beyond the hotspots and offer fulfilling and educational experiences, from eating a home-cooked meal to taking an art class.