Articles by: Ross Evans

September 1 Kicks Off Travel Together Month!

Published on September 1, 2018

During this year’s Travel Together Month, the members of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) are putting the world on sale with nearly 100 offers on bucket list trips to all seven continents. The month long celebration showcases offers like free airfare, direct savings, and complimentary add-ons from the country’s leading travel companies. Book […]

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Travels to the Far North

Published on August 28, 2018

By John Newton, AFAR Ambassador   In March 2016 I traveled to the north of Canada—Manitoba, and specifically the town of Churchill, on the edges of Hudson Bay. The trip was centered around a dinner at a fort once used by the Hudson Bay Company where the meal would, according to the plan, conclude with […]

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Finding Home While Cruising the Seine

Published on August 13, 2018

By Ben Schuyler, AFAR Ambassador Can I be honest? In my early years of travel photography I didn’t have much interest in visiting Europe. I grew up in the Pacific Northwest, where nature was a stone’s throw in any direction. That accessibility made it the topic of much of my early work. Growing up my […]

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Ideal Island Paradise

Published on August 6, 2018

  With more than 7,000 islands, the Philippines has become a bucket list tropical destination in 2018. The Southeast Asian country boasts more than 22,000 miles of coastline with pristine beaches, cosmopolitan cities, rich history, and welcoming locals ready to share Filipino culture with visitors. Credit: Asia Answers Here is a sample of USTOA member […]

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Paris and the Seine River: An Unmatched Romance Uncovered

Published on August 6, 2018

Paris and the Seine River: An Unmatched Romance Uncovered   By Ben Schuyler, AFAR Ambassador There’s no doubt about it—something really is so romantic about being in Paris. It’s the “city of love” after all, but I’m not talking so much about affectionate romance. I’m talking about the city’s ability to take you to a […]

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Bucket List Travel: Party of One

Published on July 31, 2018

Bucket List Travel: Party of One Credit: Contiki Thinking about taking a solo vacation? You’re not “alone.” Roughly half of United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) tour operator members have reported growth in solo travelers last year and many have created new opportunities for those going it alone to visit their dream destinations. With waived […]

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Eight Reasons to River Cruise in Bordeaux

Published on July 17, 2018

The Bordeaux region in France brings to mind visions of winding country sides…and of course robust red wines. While known for its vineyards, the region in southwest France also offers picturesque towns, beautiful coastlines, and impressive architectural gems. Need more inspiration? Here are eight reasons to visit the famous French region: Pack and Unpack Only […]

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Journey to Japan

Published on July 9, 2018

  Japan was named one of the top five “hot” destinations for 2018 in the USTOA’s annual survey of travel forecasts and trends, and for good reason: It’s captivating contrast of timeless traditions and modern life, along with its diverse natural landscapes, accommodates every type of travel interest. Whether it’s hiking along trails to hidden […]

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Hike, Cruise, and Drive Through Fall Foliage Around the World

Published on June 21, 2018

  Are you a “leaf peeper?” Who isn’t when faced with the vibrant shades of autumn. And, while New England is first to come to mind for the vivid colors of native maple, oak, dogwood and other trees, USTOA members offer travelers a chance to “branch” out to new leaf peeping locations around the world. From Japan […]

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How to Eat and Drink Like a Local in Rome

Published on June 11, 2018

By Tanveer Badal I’ve visited Rome twice before, so I’ve already experienced much of the city’s treasure trove of sights—though seeing mind-blowing ancient structures like the Colosseum never gets old. But for my third visit, I was determined to experience Rome like a local. My goal was to literally live out the classic phrase “when […]

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