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

For Immediate Release
June 23, 2002

GREAT BRITAIN, LAS VEGAS SCORE
AS TOP VACATION DESTINATIONS FOR 2002

Great Britain ranks number one as this year's most popular destination for European tours and vacation packages, with Las Vegas the top domestic destination. Australia is first as most popular non-European international destination, according to an informal 2002 survey of more than 60 responding member companies of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA).

Great Britain & Australia Top International Picks

For the first time in eight years, Great Britain came in as top destination, edging out Italy and France in second and third place respectively. Among top European cities and regions London placed first, with a combination of Italian cities and areas placing second. Paris was cited in third place.

Outside of Europe, Australia was the most popular international country for vacation packages and tours, with Mexico in second place, and China tying with Thailand for third place. When it came to specific destinations, a three-way tie ensued between Bangkok and two different regions of Mexico: the Pacific Coast resorts- Sea of Cortes and the Riviera Maya- Cancun.

Nevada is Top Domestic Pick

In the U.S., Nevada outshined Alaska and Hawaii (which tied for second place) as most popular state for tours and vacation packages. As for top individual destinations, USTOA members cited Las Vegas as the frontrunner, with the national parks coming in second.

"These destinations represent good value, and offer plenty of activities for all ages," observes Bob Whitley, USTOA President. "With rising interest created by the Queen's Golden Jubilee, and the excellent promotion campaign generated by the British Tourist Authority, Great Britain, in particular, has staged an impressive comeback in terms of U.S. tourists. Last year, the British suffered from perceptions regarding Foot & Mouth disease, which deterred many travelers. This year, Great Britain is top on many travelers' destination list, and the United Kingdom is expecting up to 4 million American visitors.

"Las Vegas, too, has done a remarkable job of marketing itself not only as an entertainment mecca, but as a family and convention getaway; while Australia benefits from its perception as a scenic, safe, and friendly destination for Americans," says Whitley.

Trends

Hottest trends in packaged travel? USTOA members cited short vacations as number one trend. Value-added offerings -- such as three nights for the price of two, included meals or attractions that would otherwise cost extra -- came in a close second, as tour operators offer increasing incentives for people to travel in this year's soft economy. Themed packages, too, built around special interests or outdoor activities were also cited.

Trends & Top Value for the Dollar

When asked which destinations provided the best value for the dollar, Great Britain once again placed first, followed closely by Brazil, Canada and Las Vegas.

USTOA Active Member companies provide vacations for more than 10 million travelers, accounting for $8 billion in sales annually. The association's members must adhere to the travel industry's most stringent standards, including participation in the USTOA $1 Million Consumer Protection Plan.

For a copy of USTOA's "Smart Traveler's Planning Kit," phone 1-800-GO-USTOA (468-7862), or e-mail information@ustoa.com. A listing of USTOA Members and the destinations they serve is also available by keying in www.ustoa.com.

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Editor, Broadcaster Note: USTOA President, Bob Whitley, is available for interview. A complete listing of USTOA press releases can be found at: www.ustoa.com, key in "Press Room"

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Press Contact:

Linda Kundell
Kundell Communications
(212) 877-2798 phone
(212) 877-3387 fax
LRKPR@att.net or LRKPR@aol.com