Articles by: Ross Evans

Finding Beauty in Day to Day Life in Historic Cuba

Published on August 14, 2017

By Ben Schuyler, AFAR Ambassador I’ve often found that when you mention visiting Cuba to someone, it’s undoubtedly the case that you will be asked about a combination of the following things – communism, cigars, rum, music, and classic cars.  It’s not without good reason that these are common topics, but the diversity of this […]

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Cortaditos and Old Stories Brought to Life in Cuba

Published on August 8, 2017

By Ben Schuyler, AFAR Ambassador I was eighteen when I began working at a locally owned café in the suburbs of Seattle. The modest eatery was the byproduct of two passionate foodies – Angela and Miriam. The latter, a Cuban immigrant, ran the day-to-day operations of the shop. Memories of my midday shifts are peppered […]

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Six Reasons to Visit South Africa Now with USTOA Tour Operator Members

Published on July 12, 2017

  When you think of South Africa, safaris and exotic wildlife come to mind, but our members are encouraging travelers to explore six additional reasons to travel to the fascinating destination of South Africa. Africa’s southernmost country offers holidaymakers a diverse selection of experiences within a close proximity, stunning natural beauty, a temperate year-round climate, […]

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Travel that Transforms

Published on July 6, 2017

By: Terry Dale, President and CEO, USTOA   The United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) recognizes the power of giving back, learning from different cultures and using travel as a tool for transformation. USTOA is proud to be a Strategic Association Partner of Tourism Cares, a non-profit organization that works to protect and restore attractions […]

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70 Advocacy Experts Share Their Best Tips

Published on June 19, 2017

By Ann Dermody   CQ Roll Call asked 70 advocacy experts for their best advocacy planning, strategy, skills, and training tips for advocacy professionals. See what they had to say about advocacy skills they wish they had known day one, the first thing they do when planning a campaign, and much more: 70 Experts Share Their […]

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Colombia is More Than Just Trendy Cities, Escape to Cocora Valley

Published on June 14, 2017

By Intrepid Travel   There is a certain allure to Colombia that is undeniable. Its rough past paired with the vibrant nightlife of Medellin, graffiti lined streets of Bogota and romantic colonial vibes of Cartegena have placed Colombia on everyone`s must-see list for 2017. But one destination that is often overlooked (and shouldn`t be) is […]

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Reasons to Visit Israel Now

Published on June 7, 2017

Israel is known as a historic and religious hub, but this diverse destination also offers awe-inspiring landscapes, adventure and a growing culinary and cosmopolitan culture in cities like Tel Aviv. Whether you’re interested in following in the footsteps of Jesus in Jerusalem, taste local flavors during lunch at a kibbutz, or float in the buoyant […]

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Priceless Peace of Mind

Published on June 6, 2017

By Terry Dale, President and CEO, USTOA   Safety and security have always been the top priorities for The United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) and our members.  The unparalleled knowledge and relationships built within each destination our members take guests help build engaging and memorable experiences, but also ensures an informed and swift reaction […]

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Family That Plays Together Stays Together!

Published on May 5, 2017

By Terry Dale, President and CEO, USTOA   Summer is around the corner but there’s still time to book an unforgettable summer family vacation! With 80% of USTOA tour operator members offering multi-generational/family travel, travelers looking to get away with the ones they love the most have plenty of options. Here are a few itineraries […]

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Adventure Awaits!

Published on April 24, 2017

By Terry Dale, President and CEO, USTOA   Whether it’s trekking through the Himalayas, sea kayaking in Croatia or zip lining through Costa Rica, a recent survey of USTOA tour operator members showed that more than half of the membership offers adventure itineraries diverse enough to fit all levels of thrill-seeking travelers. Ready to get […]

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