United States Tour Operators Association: Smart Travel with Tours and Packages

VACATION ADVICE FROM THE EXPERTS AT USTOA
Some Tips to Save Travelers Money and Time; And Help Them Enjoy Their Holidays Even More

When you want to make the most of your travels it makes sense to pay attention to the experts. Among the most knowledgeable of all travel insiders are the members of the U.S. Tour Operators Association, whose companies represent nearly 140 of the top brands in vacation packages and tours. USTOA companies combined are responsible for the vacations of more than 10 million travelers yearly.

USTOA recently asked these companies what they considered the single most important piece of advice for travelers. The responses are compiled below.

Research and Surf The Web

Use the Internet to research your destination before leaving. Also, search individual company websites. They often have more information and more updated prices than brochures, which are usually printed once a year.
Consult the USTOA Web Site (www.ustoa.com) where you'll find practical information on what to look for when planning a vacation. There is also a Vacation Personality Quiz to help travelers pinpoint the best vacation type based on their personality preferences. A list of USTOA member companies -- which have met the travel industry's highest standards -- and a Vacation Package Selector that allows a search of packages and tours by activity or destination, are other features on the Web Site.

Dollar Stretchers

Work with a professional travel agent you trust and who offers the products and services you expect. For instance, a travel agent with the Certified Travel Counselor, or, Certified Travel Associate (CTC/CTA) designation must fulfill a number of standards, including ongoing training, and at least 18 months of full time industry work experience. They will ensure the best price and the most efficient booking process. He or she will save you many hours in research.
Compare companies. The lowest priced packages do not always offer the best value. Understand what's included in the program as well as company pricing and policies. Make sure you are comparing "apples to apples." (Example: on outdoor-oriented tours, look into the caliber of the naturalist staff; on tours, find out how much guided sightseeing is included). Also compare hotel locations and category, if these features are important to you.
Look for money-saving add-ons like free room upgrades that stretch your dollars.
Be flexible for the best deals.
Book early for the best selection on tours and vacation packages.

A Travel Checklist

Buy travel insurance; even if you never use it, the added security is worth the additional expense.
Carry sufficient proof of citizenship.
Leave your itinerary with a friend or relative, including hotels, in case of emergency.

Carry an Open Mind

Keep an open mind when traveling. Be tolerant, respectful and enjoy others' cultures because they will be different from that of the U.S.
Spend time with the "locals" whenever possible to get a feeling of what your destination is really like.
Select companies offering escorted tours where you can travel with people from different countries, if you want to make new friends from other places.

Last, but not least:

DO IT! DON'T JUST DREAM ABOUT IT!

To access a listing of USTOA member companies, all of whom have met the travel industry's highest standards, and who subscribe to the USTOA $1 Million Consumer Protection Plan, visit the USTOA web site at www.ustoa.com or phone 1-800-GO-USTOA (468-7862) for a free copy of the USTOA "Smart Travelers Planning Kit."