By WorldTrips Travel Insurance

If you’ve noticed that the best travel deals often come with a catch—a strict “no refund” policy—you’re not imagining it. The travel industry is undergoing a significant pricing shift, and it’s changing what it means to book a trip. Understanding what’s driving this trend can help you and your clients make smarter, more protected decisions. 

Why Are So Many Deals Now Non-Refundable? 

Airlines, hotels, and travel suppliers are increasingly using AI-driven “dynamic pricing” systems that adjust rates in real time based on demand, availability, and other factors. One of the clearest outcomes of this shift: the lowest prices are increasingly tied to non-refundable terms. 

Hotels, for example, offer non-refundable rates at discounts typically ranging from 5% to 15% compared to flexible options.¹ With travel costs remaining high, those savings are hard to pass up. But they come with real risk if plans change. 

Roughly 22% to 25% of hotel bookings today are non-refundable,¹ and that share is growing. Suppliers favor these bookings because they provide guaranteed revenue and reduce last-minute cancellations—which have exceeded 20% in some travel segments.² The result is a market where the most attractive prices come with the least flexibility. 

What This Means If You’re Booking a Tour or Package Trip 

Guided tours and travel packages are particularly affected. Tour operators build their packages using flights, hotels, and ground services and to offer competitive pricing, many of those components are now booked as non-refundable inventory. That means when you or your client cancels or changes a trip, the financial consequences can be significant. 

In group travel, the stakes are even higher. A few cancellations across a group can create serious losses when the underlying costs can’t be recovered. This isn’t a hypothetical, it’s the reality of how travel is being sold today. 

As a traveler, here’s what you should keep in mind: 

• The competitive price you’re seeing may be locked in, non-refundable in full or in part. 

• Cancellation policies have become stricter across the board, not just for budget options. 

• Flexibility now often comes at a premium and sometimes isn’t available at all. 

A Note for Travel Agents: This Is a Client Conversation Worth Having 

As a travel agent, you’re likely already navigating this shift firsthand. The packages and rates you book on behalf of clients increasingly involve non-refundable components, even when that isn’t always obvious upfront. Setting clear expectations early, and building protection into the booking process, is one of the best ways to preserve trust and avoid difficult conversations after the fact. 

Proactively discussing cancellation terms and travel insurance at the time of booking isn’t just good service. In today’s market, it’s essential client care. 

Travel Insurance: No Longer Optional 

As more trips are built on non-refundable components, travel insurance has shifted from a nice-to-have to a genuine necessity. Julie Biedenharn, VP of Sales at WorldTrips, explains: 

“Tour operators are carrying more financial exposure than ever before. When key components of a trip are non-refundable, even a small number of cancellations can have a meaningful impact on the business. Building travel insurance into the booking process is one of the most effective ways operators can protect both their clients and their own bottom line.” 

The numbers back this up. Squaremouth reports that travel insurance claims have risen 18% year-over-year, with payouts up 37%,³ largely driven by cancellations and trip interruptions involving prepaid, non-refundable expenses. That growth reflects how many travelers are experiencing the real financial impact of today’s stricter booking terms. 

Travel insurance can help by: 

• Reimbursing non-refundable costs if a trip is cancelled for a covered reason 

• Covering trip interruptions and unexpected changes mid-travel 

• Providing emergency medical coverage abroad, where personal health insurance may not apply 

• Giving travelers the confidence to commit to a trip knowing they have coverage 

Book Smart: Questions to Ask Before You Commit 

Whether you’re a traveler booking directly or an agent advising clients, these are the right questions to ask before finalizing any trip with non-refundable components: 

• Which parts of this trip are non-refundable, and what are the exact terms? 

• What happens financially if I need to cancel or change dates? 

• Is travel insurance included, or should I purchase a policy? 

• Does the insurance cover the full cost of my trip, including all pre-paid components? 

Travel Confidently in a Non-Refundable World 

The travel industry is more efficient than ever but also less forgiving when things don’t go as planned. The best prices today often come with the strictest terms, and that’s unlikely to change. For travelers and travel agents alike, the answer isn’t to avoid great deals. It’s to book them with the right protection in place. 

WorldTrips offers travel insurance solutions designed for today’s market, helping travelers protect their investment and giving agents a trusted tool to help clients with peace of mind. 

About WorldTrips Travel Insurance

WorldTrips is a leading provider of travel insurance solutions, delivering flexible, customer-focused coverage and assistance services to individuals, families, students, and organizations worldwide. Headquartered in Carmel, Indiana, the company is known for flexible product design, customer-first service, and the financial strength that comes with being part of one of the world’s most respected insurance groups, Tokio Marine Group.

Sources 

¹ Prostay. (2025). 2025 hotel guide: Non-refundable rates. https://www.prostay.com/blog/2025-hotel-guide-non-refundable-rates/ 

² SiteMinder, Hotel Booking Trends Report, accessed 2026, https://www.siteminder.com/hotel-booking-trends/ 

³ Squaremouth. (2024). Rising travel costs led to a big shift in travel insurance payouts in 2024. https://www.squaremouth.com/press-room/rising-travel-costs-led-to-a-big-shift-in-travel-insurance-payouts-in-2024/ 

The post Dynamic Pricing and the Rise of Non-Refundable Trips  appeared first on USTOA Blog.

By Richard Krieger, Director, Sky Vacations 

Luxury travel has evolved significantly over the past decade. Today’s travelers are not simply looking for beautiful hotels or iconic landmarks, they’re looking for experiences that feel personal, authentic, and genuinely connected to the destinations they visit. 

More than ever, travelers want to understand the culture behind a place. They want to experience the rhythm of local life, discover regional traditions, and engage with destinations in a way that feels meaningful rather than transactional. In many ways, luxury travel has become less about checking destinations off a list and more about creating moments that feel memorable, immersive, and emotionally rewarding. 

This shift is changing the expectations placed on travel advisors and tour operators alike. Access to information has never been greater, yet travelers increasingly recognize that online recommendations and generic itineraries often only scratch the surface. What many people truly value today is insight – the kind that comes from local relationships, destination expertise, and thoughtfully curated experiences. 

At Sky Vacations, we believe some of the most rewarding travel experiences come from going beyond the guidebook. Stepping outside the major capital cities and exploring smaller cities and towns, where the pace is slower, big tour buses fewer and the crowds, much smaller.  

Why Modern Luxury Travelers Want More Than Traditional Sightseeing 

For many years, luxury travel was often defined by price, accommodations, types of transportation, and seeing famous landmarks. While those elements still matter, traveler expectations have evolved considerably. 

Today’s affluent travelers increasingly value experiences over simply amenities. They are looking for journeys that feel thoughtfully designed, culturally engaging, and personally enriching. The experience itself has become the luxury. 

Travelers are increasingly drawn to: 

• Regional culinary experiences 

• Local storytelling 

• Artisan traditions 

• Cultural interaction  

• Wellness and slower-paced travel 

• and more personalized itineraries 

Rather than moving quickly between multiple destinations, many travelers now prefer to spend more time within a region, allowing for deeper exploration and a more meaningful understanding of local culture. This evolution has also changed how travelers define authenticity. Luxury no longer needs to feel formal, stuffy or overly structured.  

Increasingly, luxury travel is about emotional connection as much as physical destination. 

The Difference Between Visiting a Destination and Truly Experiencing It 

There is a significant difference between seeing a destination and understanding it. 

Traditional sightseeing often focuses on major landmarks and well-known attractions, but meaningful travel experiences usually happen beyond the surface. They come from context, perspective, and local insight. 

A traveler can visit a famous city and still leave without truly understanding its culture, traditions, or daily life. By contrast, immersive travel experiences allow travelers to engage with destinations in ways that feel more personal and memorable. 

This might include: 

• discovering a neighborhood through its cafes, shops and galleries 

• learning local customs and traditions 

• exploring lesser-known cultural districts 

• meeting artisans and craftspeople 

• attending local festivals 

• or hearing historical stories from guides who deeply understand the region.  

Importantly, cultural immersion does not mean sacrificing comfort or luxury. In fact, many of today’s most sophisticated luxury travelers are specifically looking for experiences that combine premium service with deeper local engagement. 

Luxury and authenticity are no longer viewed as opposites. The most successful modern travel experiences often blend both seamlessly. 

Why Insider Knowledge Matters More Than Ever in Today’s Travel Landscape 

In today’s digital world, travelers have access to endless travel information. Social media, online reviews, AI-generated itineraries, and travel apps have made destination research more accessible than ever before. 

Yet despite this abundance of information, travelers increasingly recognize that truly exceptional journeys still depend on expertise. 

Online recommendations often lack nuance, local understanding, and real-time perspective. They rarely account for seasonality, cultural context, pacing, or the subtle details that shape how a destination is actually experienced. 

Insider knowledge helps elevate travel in ways that generic recommendations cannot. 

Experienced destination specialists understand: 

• best times to visit a destination 

• how to avoid overcrowded experiences 

• which local experiences feel authentic 

• how to structure itineraries more comfortably, at a travelers pace 

This expertise also becomes especially valuable in destinations where culture, history, and logistics require deeper understanding. 

In many ways, insider knowledge has become one of the defining elements of premium travel. Travelers increasingly value not just access, but informed access – experiences curated with thought, cultural understanding, and local perspective. 

The Growing Importance of Local Partnerships in Luxury Travel 

Meaningful travel experiences rarely happen in isolation. They are often made possible through strong local relationships and trusted destination partnerships. 

Behind every seamless luxury journey is usually a network of knowledgeable guides, regional experts, hospitality partners, and local specialists who help bring a destination to life. 

These relationships matter for many reasons. 

Operationally, strong local partnerships help ensure consistency, flexibility, and personalized service. They also allow travel experiences to feel more natural and less transactional. 

Culturally, local partnerships create opportunities for travelers to engage with destinations in more authentic ways. Experienced local guides can provide historical insight, cultural understanding, and personal perspective that enrich the overall journey. 

Local expertise also allows travelers to move beyond surface-level tourism. Whether it’s discovering regional culinary traditions, understanding cultural etiquette, or exploring areas less commonly included in standard itineraries, these details help create more rewarding travel experiences. 

At the same time, local partnerships play an important role in responsible tourism. Thoughtful collaboration with local communities, guides, and businesses helps support more sustainable and culturally respectful travel experiences. 

As travelers increasingly seek authenticity and personalization, trusted local relationships have become one of the most valuable components of luxury travel planning. 

How Cultural Immersion Creates More Memorable Travel Experiences 

The experiences travelers remember most are often not the most extravagant – they are the most meaningful. 

A conversation with a local guide, a traditional cooking experience, an intimate wine tasting in a regional vineyard, or an afternoon exploring artisan workshops can leave a far deeper impression than simply visiting a famous landmark. 

These moments create emotional connection. They provide travelers with a sense of understanding and perspective that transforms how they experience a destination. 

Cultural immersion also creates a stronger sense of place. Travelers begin to understand not only what makes a destination beautiful, but also what makes it culturally distinct. 

This is particularly important in today’s luxury travel landscape, where many travelers are seeking experiences that feel more personal and enriching. 

Experiential travel can take many forms: 

• culinary exploration 

• cultural storytelling  

• wellness traditions  

• regional history 

• artisan craftsmanship  

• music and performance  

• or community-based experiences  

What matters most is that the experience feels thoughtful, respectful, and genuinely connected to the destination itself. 

Increasingly, travelers are seeking journeys that allow them to return home not only with photographs, but with a deeper understanding of the places they visited and the people they encountered along the way. 

How Sky Vacations Incorporates Local Insight Into Curated Journeys 

At Sky Vacations, local immersion and destination expertise are central to how journeys are designed. 

Across Europe, many itineraries are built around regional experiences that allow travelers to engage more deeply with local culture. Culinary traditions, wine regions, historic towns, and locally guided experiences all help create journeys that feel more connected to the character of each destination rather than limited to major tourist attractions alone. 

In destinations such as Egypt and the Middle East, cultural context and expert guidance play an especially important role. Experiences become significantly more meaningful when travelers gain deeper historical understanding through knowledgeable local guides and carefully curated itineraries that provide greater perspective on the destination’s heritage and traditions. 

Japan is another destination where thoughtful itinerary design and regional insight can greatly enhance the travel experience. While major cities remain important highlights, many travelers increasingly appreciate opportunities to explore regional culture, traditional hospitality, and experiences that extend beyond the country’s best-known tourism routes. 

Sky Vacations also places strong emphasis on flexibility and personalization, particularly through FIT and small-group travel experiences. Smaller-scale journeys often allow for more meaningful engagement, personalized pacing, and opportunities to experience destinations in a way that feels more natural and immersive. 

Equally important are the relationships developed with trusted local partners, guides, and destination specialists. These connections help ensure that experiences are thoughtfully delivered, culturally respectful, and aligned with the expectations of today’s luxury travelers. 

Rather than approaching travel as a standardized product, Sky Vacations focuses on creating journeys that feel curated, culturally informed, and experience-driven – reflecting the growing demand for travel that feels both enriching and personal. 

Why Travel Advisors Increasingly Value Immersive Travel Specialists 

As traveler expectations evolve, travel advisors increasingly seek partners who can provide not only operational support, but also meaningful destination expertise. 

Clients today often expect highly personalized recommendations, immersive experiences, and thoughtfully curated itineraries. Delivering those experiences requires more than booking logistics alone – it requires insight, relationships, and a strong understanding of the destination itself. 

This is one reason why immersive travel specialists have become increasingly valuable within the luxury travel sector. 

Trusted tour operator partnerships help advisors: 

• create more differentiated itineraries 

• access culturally enriching experiences  

• navigate destination complexity  

• and deliver more personalized travel recommendations 

At the same time, advisors benefit from working with partners who understand how to balance luxury, logistics, and authenticity in a way that aligns with modern traveler expectations. 

As experiential travel continues to grow, strong destination expertise is becoming an increasingly important differentiator within the advisor community. 

The Future of Luxury Travel Is Increasingly Experience Led 

Looking ahead, the luxury travel industry will likely continue moving toward more immersive and experience-focused journeys. 

Several trends are shaping this evolution: 

• slower travel 

• wellness-focused itineraries  

• culinary exploration 

• personalized travel design  

• sustainability and conscious tourism  

• and culturally immersive experiences  

Travelers increasingly value quality over quantity. Rather than trying to see everything, many now prefer to engage more deeply with fewer destinations and experiences. 

This shift is also changing how luxury itself is defined. Increasingly, luxury is about access, understanding, personalization, and emotional connection rather than simply exclusivity alone. 

As a result, local insight and cultural immersion are becoming central expectations within premium travel. 

The future of luxury travel will likely belong to experiences that feel thoughtful, authentic, and genuinely connected to the destinations travelers explore. 

Why Local Insight Will Continue to Shape Luxury Travel 

Luxury travel today is increasingly shaped by the desire for meaningful experiences and deeper cultural connection. Travelers are looking beyond traditional sightseeing in search of journeys that feel immersive, personal, and enriching. 

Insider knowledge and trusted local expertise play an essential role in creating these experiences. They help transform travel from something transactional into something memorable – allowing travelers to engage more thoughtfully with the people, traditions, and stories that define a destination. 

At the same time, local immersion helps create journeys that feel more authentic, more rewarding, and ultimately more impactful. 

As the luxury travel landscape continues to evolve, thoughtfully curated experiences and genuine destination insight will only become more important – not just for travelers, but also for the travel advisors and specialists helping shape those journeys. 

About Sky Vacations

Sky Vacations is an award-winning tour operator specializing in immersive, experience-driven travel across the globe. From custom FITs and specialty groups to culinary journeys, wellness retreats, cultural experiences, luxury travel, and small group departures, Sky Vacations helps travel advisors create unforgettable journeys for their clients. Backed by competitive global airfare, destination expertise, and high-touch support, the company is committed to delivering seamless planning, exceptional service, and curated travel experiences that inspire.

Sky Vacations

1-877-666-3113

letsgo@skyvacations.net

www.skyvacations.net

The post Beyond the Guidebook: Why Local Insight Matters More Than Ever  appeared first on USTOA Blog.

This holiday shopping season, the active member tour operator members of the United States Tour Operators Association are offering exclusive Black Friday and Cyber Monday savings across guided tours, small-ship cruises, rail vacations, and air-inclusive getaways.

Travelers and travel advisors can take advantage of limited-time discounts, complimentary upgrades, and added-value perks on trips across Europe, Asia, the South Pacific, and beyond. Booking windows run through early December, with select travel dates available into 2027.

AAT Kings

The Promotion Includes: Up to 10% off AAT Kings guided tours, with an additional 5% off with promo code 

How to Book: Use Promo Code USTOA25 

Booking Window: Dec 1 – 8, 2025

Fine Print: Valid for booking Dec 1 – 8 2025 for travel through Mar 31, 2027 

Affordable World

The Promotion Includes: Travelers can enjoy up to $500 off per person on select 2026 tours. 

• All China Tours: $500 OFF per person 
• All Thailand + Thailand & Singapore Tours except for tour codes ATT-II, ATP, ATPM: $500 OFF per person 
• All Bali + Bali Singapore Tours, Egypt and Egypt/Istanbul tours, Greece + Greece & Istanbul tours, Japan tours, Maldives Tours: $400 OFF per person  

How to Book: Book directly at www.affordableworld.com 

Booking Window: October 28 – November 30, 2025

Fine Print: Promotion is valid for the travel window of January – December 2026.

Amtrak Vacations

The Promotion Includes: Save $250 per couple on any 3–6-night rail vacations, $500 per couple on any 7–9-night rail vacations, $600 per couple on any 10–14-night rail vacations, or $700 per couple on any 15+ night rail vacations. Solo travelers can save $125 per person on any 3–6-night rail vacations, $250 per person on any 7–9-night rail vacations, $300 per person on any 10–14-night rail vacations, or $350 per person on any 15+ night rail vacations. 

How to Book: All bookings must be made over the phone. 1-800-268-7252.  

Booking Window: Offers are only valid for bookings made after November 24, 2025. This is a limited time offer and may end at any time.

Fine Print: To count as a night, accommodations must be booked through a Railbookers Group brand. This sale is not combinable with other offers, please call for details. Discount applicable for adults only. Other exclusions and restrictions may apply. New reservations only. Travel window is 2025 departures and beyond.

Brendan Vacations

The Promotion Includes: $1,400 in Savings on Celtic Escapes

How to Book: https://www.brendanvacations.com/en-us/special-offers/black-friday-sale

Booking Window: November 3 – December 4, 2025.

Fine Print: The experts in Celtic travel, Brendan Vacations, are offering guests savings of up to $1,400 per person on the brand’s most popular guided tours in Ireland and Scotland. Beginning November 3 through December 4, travelers can save on signature itineraries, including Best of Ireland and Castles and Manors and premium itineraries Britain and Ireland Discovery and Irish Elegance. The new Small Group Tour itineraries will also be on sale with savings of up to $1,000 per person. Travelers can also save up to $600 per person on private driver, luxury self-drive, self-drive and rail vacations for travel in 2026. 

Celtic Tours Vacations

The Promotion Includes:

• Irish Rose – 9 Night Tour 
  • SAVE $800 Per Couple 
  • Beautiful full-circle tour of Ireland: Weekly Small Group Departures 
  • Promo Code: BLKFRY-ROSE25 
• Celtic Gold – 7 Night Tour 
  • SAVE $600 Per Couple 
  • Touch of luxury with deluxe castle stay in Ireland: Semi-weekly Small Group Departures. 
  • Promo Code: BLKFRY-GOLD25 
• Celtic Delight – 7 Night Tour 
  • SAVE $500 Per Couple 
  • Fantastic tour of Ireland with an exciting itinerary: Weekly Small Group Departures. 
  • Promo Code: BLKFRY-DEL25 
• Custom Chauffeur or Self Drive 
  • SAVE 10% on 6 Nights or More 
  • Custom Ireland itineraries to take your tour to the next level. Savings excludes fees & insurance. 
  • Mention discount when booking. 
• United Kingdom or Italy 
  • SAVE 5% on Escorted Tours 
  • Plenty of amazing tours to choose from. Mention discount when booking. 

How to Book: Email reservations@celtictours.com or have your travel agent call at 800-833-4373. Visit celtictours.com for more information.

Booking Window: November 15 – Dec 29, 2025

Fine Print: Savings for new bookings on deposit during booking window. Cannot be combined with other sales or discounts. Does not apply to group sales. Deposit required to hold space is non-refundable. Airfare is additional cost. 

CIE Tours

The Promotion Includes: Up to 15% off guided vacations across all destinations with no blackout dates. Travelers can save up to $2,000 per couple on nearly every tour, spanning Ireland, Scotland, England, Spain, and Italy. The promotion covers both classic group tours and private guided vacations for a more personalized experience. Every journey includes the CIE Tours Inclusive Advantage, covering accommodations, transportation, admissions, and most meals.

• Early Access deals (Nov. 3–17) feature 24 itineraries, including the new Ireland Walking & Hiking: The Northern Coast tour, debuting May 2026.
• From Nov. 18–Dec. 2, Black Friday and Cyber Week savings include 22 additional trips, such as the Scottish Clans & Castles adventure through the Highlands and Isle of Skye.

How to Book: Travel advisors and travelers can visit https://www.cietours.com/blackfriday to book online, chat or call 1-800-243-8687 directly using special promo codes. For Custom Private Driver experiences, both travelers and advisors should call 1-888-467-2685 to speak with a CIE Tours expert.

Booking Window: November 3 – December 2, 2025

Collette

The Promotion Includes: Up to 25% off tours worldwide.

FOR NEW TRAVELERS

How to Book: Use code BLACKFRIDAY25

Presale Booking Window:  11/17/2025 – 12/03/2025

Primary Booking Window:  11/24/2025 – 12/03/2025

Fine Print: Presale: Offer valid on new retail bookings only made 11/17/2025 – 12/03/2025 for travel 01/01/2026 – 04/30/2027. Offer code BLACKFRIDAY25 must be used at time of booking for savings. Offer applies to land package only and does not apply to any other required supplements or internal air. Offers can expire earlier due to space or inventory availability. Space is on a first come, first served basis. Offers are not valid on group or existing bookings. Offers are combinable with member benefits only. This offer is not combinable with any other offers. Discount level and availability varies by destination and month of travel. Other restrictions may apply. Primary Sale: Offer valid on new retail bookings only made 11/24/2025 – 12/03/2025 for travel 01/01/2026 – 04/30/2027. Offer code BLACKFRIDAY25 must be used at time of booking for savings. Offer applies to land package only and does not apply to any other required supplements or internal air. Offers can expire earlier due to space or inventory availability. Space is on a first come, first served basis. Offers are not valid on group or existing bookings. Offers are combinable with member benefits only. This offer is not combinable with any other offers. Discount level and availability varies by destination and month of travel. Other restrictions may apply.

FOR PAST TRAVELERS

How to Book: Use code BACKAGAIN

Presale Booking Window:  11/17/2025 – 12/03/2025

Primary Booking Window:  11/24/2025 – 12/03/2025

Fine Print: Presale: Offer valid on new retail bookings only made 11/17/2025 – 12/03/2025  for travel 01/01/2026 –  04/30/2027.  Eligible additional services include:  Pre/Post Night, Pre/Post Extension, Air, Optional Excursions. Any unused credits towards these services will be forfeited.  Offer code BACKAGAIN25 must be used at time of booking for savings.  The discount for qualified services will be applied against the land portion of the tour.  Offers may expire early due to inventory limitations. Space is available on a first-come, first-served basis. This offer are not valid on group or existing bookings. It is combinable with member benefits and our Black Friday / Cyber Monday sale, and not combinable with any other offers. Discount level and availability varies by destination and month of travel. Other restrictions may apply. Primary Sale: Offer valid on new retail bookings only made 11/24/2025 – 12/03/2025  for travel 01/01/2026 –  04/30/2027.  Eligible additional services include:  Pre/Post Night, Pre/Post Extension, Air, Optional Excursions. Any unused credits towards these services will be forfeited.  Offer code BACKAGAIN25 must be used at time of booking for savings.  The discount for qualified services will be applied against the land portion of the tour.  Offers may expire early due to inventory limitations. Space is available on a first-come, first-served basis. This offer are not valid on group or existing bookings. It is combinable with member benefits and our Black Friday / Cyber Monday sale, and not combinable with any other offers. Discount level and availability varies by destination and month of travel. Other restrictions may apply.        

Contiki

The Promotion Includes: Up to 50% Off + Up to $800 in Savings on Trips to Japan, Scotland & Beyond

How to Book: https://www.contiki.com/en-us/activity/black-friday

Booking Window: November 12 – December 4, 2025

Fine Print: Contiki, the world’s leading travel brand for 18-35-year-olds, unveils its biggest Black Friday Sale ever this year, offering travelers major savings on more than 150 itineraries worldwide and limited-time “drops” featuring select trips and departure dates at 50% off. From November 12–December 4, travelers can find savings of over $800 on global Contiki trips, including over $500 off Japan Unrivalled, the ultimate Japan immersion; over $300 off an in-depth exploration of Ireland and Scotland or over $400 off a breathtaking adventure to Victoria Falls and Bostwana. During the sale, Contiki will also offer a series of limited-time drops featuring select trips and departure dates, including in-demand itineraries such as Albania Beaches and Peaks and Portugal Highlights, available at 50 percent off for an exclusive period. 

CostSaver

The Promotion Includes: BOGO 50% Off + 15% Off South Africa, Bali, and Beyond

How to Book: https://www.costsavertour.com/en-us/deals/black-friday-travel-offers

Booking Window: November 3 – December 4, 2025

Fine Print: From November 3-December 4, budget-friendly tour company Costsaver is offering buy one, get one 50% off on two new trips each week during the sales period, plus additional savings of 10% off on select itineraries throughout the sale. Travelers can take advantage of these offers on journeys such as Costa Rica Adventure and Magical Bali for tropical escapes, Icons of Southern Africa for a blend of city discovery and safari, and Italian Scene for an immersive look at Italy’s most iconic attractions. 

Delta Vacations

The Promotion Includes: Up to $250 off flight and hotel packages worldwide.

How to Book: Use code SMBF2025

Booking Window: November 4 – December 4, 2025

Fine Print: $25 off flight and hotel packages up to $1,499, $75 off flight and hotel packages up to $1,500-$3,999, $125 off flight and hotel packages up to $4,000-$6,999, $250 off flight and hotel packages of $7,000 or more. Booking window is 11/4/25-12/4/25. Travel window is 12/1/24-3/31/26. Must be a SkyMiles Member.

EF Go Ahead Tours

The Promotion Includes: Doorbuster and lightning deals throughout 11/28 across entire inventory of more than 200 trips that span the globe.

How to Book: https://www.goaheadtours.com/deals

Booking Window: Black Friday day (11/28): Save up to $1500 with exciting doorbuster and lightning deals throughout the day across our entire inventory of more than 200 trips that span the globe.

Cyber Monday 12/1: Save up to 30% on tours

Travel Tuesday 12/2: Save up to 25% on tours

Fine Print: Save up to $800 per person on select tours from November 14-26, 2025. On November 24, 2025, travelers can save up to $1,000 on select departures. All offers only valid on new reservations made during eligible timeframes as outlined above. $99 down valid when enrolling in AutoPay at time of booking. During our Fully Refundable Booking Period, refunds are available up to 30 days from the booking date, or until the Tour Finalization Date, whichever date is sooner, for travelers who enroll in AutoPay or pay in full at the time of booking. All other travelers have 72 hours from the time of booking to request a full refund. Rebookings from other tours are not included in this offer and are subject to standard cancellation terms. Combinable with Club Go benefits and referral credits but not combinable with any other promotional offer, including Group Coordinator and Group Benefit programs. Lightning Deal discounts are valid on new bookings only and are not part of the 90-day promotion adjustment guarantee. Sales promotions are not redeemable for cash. Exclusions may apply. To view our complete Terms & Conditions, visit goaheadtours.com/terms. The tour operator for your trip is EF World Journeys International, Ltd. CST 2060043-20. © 2025 Signum International AG.

EF Ultimate Break

The Promotion Includes: Check out worry-free, cancel for any reason booking policies as you save up to $1000 on tours thorough Black Friday.

How to Book: https://www.efultimatebreak.com/deals

Booking Window: Through Black Friday (11/28)

Fine Print: Save up to 35% per person on select tours from November 4 – November 28, 2025. All offers only valid on new reservations made during eligible timeframes as outlined above. Re-bookings from other tours or dates are not included in this offer and are subject to standard cancellation terms. Combinable with Repeat discount but not combinable with any other promotional offer, including Group Coordinator and Group Benefit programs. Sales promotions are not redeemable for cash. Exclusions may apply. For bookings made during our Fully Refundable Booking Period from November 10 – November 28, 2025, refunds are available until 11:59PM PT December 31, 2025, or until 100 days prior to tour departure, whichever is sooner, for travelers who enroll in EF’s Automatic Payment Plan or pay in full at the time of booking.  To view our complete Booking Conditions, visit efultimatebreak.com/faq/booking-conditions.

EF Adventures

The Promotion Includes:  Save up to $750 dollars on adventure travel through Black Friday!

How to Book: www.efadventures.com/promotions/black-friday-deals

Booking Window: Through Black Friday (11/28)

Fine Print: Save up to $600 per person on select 2026 tours when you book from November 3rd – November 28th, 2025 at 11:59 PM PST. Offer on 2026 departures cannot be combined with other discounts, unless otherwise noted. All offers only valid on new reservations made during eligible timeframes as outlined above. During our Fully Refundable Booking Period, refunds are available up to 30 days from the booking date, or until the Tour Finalization Date, whichever date is sooner, for travelers who enroll in AutoPay or pay in full at the time of booking. All other travelers have 72 hours from the time of booking to request a full refund. Rebookings from other tours are not included in this offer and are subject to standard cancellation terms. Sales promotions are not redeemable for cash. Exclusions may apply. View our complete Terms & Conditions here: https://www.efadventures.com/about/terms/booking-conditions. The tour operator for your trip is EF World Journeys International, Ltd. CST 2060043-20. © 2025 Signum International AG

Exoticca Travel

The Promotion Includes: 12 top trips with limited fares at 70% off each week.  

How to Book: Advisor Booking link: Best Black Friday Trip Deals 2025 | Up to 70% Off | Exoticca  

Booking Window: Now – November 30, 2025

Fine Print: Consumers should book through a travel advisor.

G Adventures

The Promotion Includes: Up to 30% off over 400 trips

How to Book: https://www.gadventures.com/travel-deals/black-friday-sale/

Booking Window: Now – November 30, 2025

Fine Print: See website for full details.

Insight Vacations

The Promotion Includes: Sri Lanka, Spain, Canada & More for 15% Off + BOGO 50% Off

How to Book: https://www.insightvacations.com/en-us/special-offers/black-friday-sale

Booking Window: November 3 – December 4, 2025

Fine Print: Premium tour company, Insight Vacations, is offering buy one, get one 50% off on three new trips every week during the sale period from November 3-December 4. Additional savings of up to 15% off top itineraries will be available, including on Wonders of Sri Lanka, a new itinerary for 2026 travel, Amazing Spain and Portugal for a tour of Spain and Portugal’s ancient sites and cities, Best of Eastern Canada and USA, where travelers will explore the history and natural landscapes of the East Coast from Toronto to Washington DC and more. 

Intertrips

The Promotion Includes:

• 8-Day Japan Delight: Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Kyoto 
  • Air Included Tour Package from SFO or LAX starts from $1299 
  • Leading price departure date: 2/4/2026 -$1299 from SFO Air Included 

How to Book:

• Website Link: https://www.intertrips.com/goods/8JPTSK.html 
• Call to Claim: 888-410-4111 
• Email to Claim: info@intertrips.com 
• Travel agents enjoy additional 10% off with code: GOJAPAN10 

Booking Window: November 14 – December 5, 2025

Fine Print: Term & Conditions: https://www.intertrips.com/conditions.html. Additional Information to know: Additional fees may apply for some departure dates. Airfare nonrefundable after booking. As escorted tours, minimum passengers are required to operate the tour. Final itinerary will be finalized 21–30 days before the departure date. Travel insurance, service fee, visa application fee and other personal expenses are not included. Additional fee to travel solo: $550. $150 Local service/Operation fee is not included. Please contact us for detailed information. 

The Promotion Includes:

• 12-Day Journey Through Beijing &Thailand: Bangkok, Pattaya, Ayutthaya & River Kwai 
  • Air Included from LAX starts from $899 
  • Leading Price Departure Date: 4/5/26, 4/12/26 

How to Book:

• Website Link: https://www.intertrips.com/goods/13BJTHBPAAYU.html 
• Call to Claim: 888-410-4111 
• Email to Claim: info@intertrips.com 
• Travel agents get additional 10% off with Code: USTOAAGENT10 

Booking Window: November 14 – December 5, 2025

Fine Print: Term & Conditions: https://www.intertrips.com/conditions.html. Additional information to know. Additional fees may apply for some departure dates. Airfare nonrefundable after booking. As escorted tours, minimum passengers are required to operate the tour. Final itinerary will be finalized 21–30 days before the departure date. Travel insurance, service fee, visa application fee and other personal expenses are not included. Additional fee to travel solo: $400. Local service/Operation fee is not included. Please contact us for detailed information.

The Promotion Includes:

• 20% off all offered Europe tours

How to Book:

• Use code EXPLOREEU20
• Website Link: https://www.intertrips.com/region/FL2503250102322936.html choose the tour package and book the date 
• Call to Claim:888-410-4111
• Email to Claim:info@intertrips.com 

Booking Window: November 14 – December 5, 2025

Fine Print: Term & Conditions: https://www.intertrips.com/conditions.html. Additional information to know: Single supplement fee will apply for solo traveler. Final Itinerary will be sent out 21-30 days before departure date. Travel insurance, service fee, visa application fee and other personal expenses are not included 

Intrepid Travel

The Promotion Includes: Up to 20% off selected trips

• Offer: Up to 20% off selected trips  
  • Discounts vary between 5% to 20% off select Intrepid Travel trips. 
  • Applicable discounts for selected trips are as specified on the Intrepid website (www.intrepidtravel.com).  
• Offer: 20% off Selected Join in Urban Adventure trips. 
  • Applicable discounts are specified on the Urban Adventure website (www.urbanadventures.com).    

How to Book: November 13 – December 4, 2025 

Booking Window: Book directly on the website or contact us.

Fine Print: Travel dates: December 01, 2025 – December 14, 2026. Blackout dates: December 18, 2025 – January 5, 2026. Black Friday Sale offers apply to new bookings made and deposited between 12:01am EST November 13, 2025 – 11:59pm PST December 04, 2025, for select trips departing between December 01, 2025 – December 14, 2026 (excluding December 18, 2025 – January 05, 2026). For a list of inclusions/exclusions, please see our sale terms and conditions. All offers apply to the land price only. Please see the website for full booking terms and conditions.   

Perillo Tours

The Promotion Includes: $500 per couple on select 2026 escorted tours to Italy, as well as savings of $750 per couple on select 2026 Greece, Ireland, Portugal, Spain, and Hawaii escorted tours. Independent travelers will find savings of $500 per couple on any customized journey through Perillo Custom Vacations.  

• Eligible 2026 Italy tours include:  
• Best of Southern Italy  
• Gems of Italy  
• Heart of Italy  
• La Dolce Vita — Rome & Sorrento  
• Taste of Sicily  
• Wonders of Northern Italy  
• Eligible 2026 Greece, Ireland, Portugal, Spain, and Hawaii tours include:  
• Deluxe Greece  
• Deluxe Greece plus Crete Extension  
• Greek Odyssey: Athens, Ancient Sites, and Santorini  
• Heart of Ireland  
• Deluxe Spain  
• Spain & Portugal  
• Portugal Dreams: From Porto to Lisbon  
• Hawaii Four Islander  
• Hawaii Three Islander  
• Hawaii Two Islander  

How to Book: Call 1-800-431-1515 or book online using code “BLACKFRI25” for escorted group tours or “IVBLACKFRI25” for Perillo Custom Vacations.

Booking Window: November 28 – December 5, 2025

Fine Print: Offer is valid for new bookings only made between November 28-December 5, 2025, for travel between January 1 and December 31, 2026, based on availability. The Black Friday promotion is bookable via phone (1-800-431-1515) or online using code “BLACKFRI25” for escorted group tours or “IVBLACKFRI25” for Perillo Custom Vacations. The Black Friday promotional offer is available for new bookings only and cannot be combined with any other promotional offer except Pay by Check.  Black Friday discount applies to land packages only. Perillo Custom Vacations discount is not available for travel during the blackout periods of May 1-31, 2026 and September 1-30, 2026. A minimum trip price of $4,000 per person (land only) is required to receive an eligible Perillo Custom Vacations booking discount. 

Pleasant Holidays

The Promotion Includes:

• OAHU 
  • ‘Alohilani Resort Waikiki Beach 
  • Diamond Head Ocean View and Waikiki Mountain View. 
  • $25 daily resort credit per room 
  • Valid on new bookings made by 01/02/2027 for travel through 01/03/2027 
• The Twin Fin 
  • Ocean View King and Ocean View 
  • Double/Double rooms. Includes a guaranteed room upgrade from Partial Ocean View to Ocean View. 
  • Valid on new bookings made by 01/02/2027 for travel through 01/03/2027.
• MAUI 
  • ASTON KAANAPALI SHORES 
  • One Bedroom Standard and One Bedroom Ocean View rooms. 
  • Includes complimentary daily breakfast for two. 
  • Valid on new bookings made by 12/31/2026 for travel through 12/31/2026.
• ISLAND OF HAWAII 
  • Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa 
  • Resort View and Ocean View room. 
  • Includes daily continental breakfast for up to two guests at Hawaii Calls restaurant and 10% OFF Mandara Spa services. 
  • Valid on new bookings made by 01/03/2027 for travel through 01/03/2027.

How to Book:  Book at pleasantagent.com or call 800-448-3333 

Booking Window: See individual offers

Fine Print: Valid on new bookings for select travel through 01/03/2027. All offers require inclusion of roundtrip transpacific air and accommodations in select room categories noted above. Certain restrictions and blackout dates may apply. All offers and programs apply to a limited number of rooms, and are subject to availability, change or cancellation without notice.

Railbookers Group

The Promotion Includes: Save $300 per couple on any 3–6-night rail vacations, $600 per couple on any 7–9-night rail vacations, $750 per couple on any 10–14-night rail vacations, or $900 per couple on any 15+ night rail vacations. Solo travelers can save $150 per person on any 3–6-night rail vacations, $300 per person on any 7–9-night rail vacations, $375 per person on any 10–14-night rail vacations, or $450 per person on any 15+ night rail vacations. 

How to Book: All bookings must be made over the phone. 1-888-829-3040.  

Booking Window: Offers apply only to 2026 departures booked on or after November 24, 2025. This is a limited time offer and may end at any time. 

Fine Print: To count as a night, accommodations must be booked through a Railbookers Group brand. This sale is not combinable with other offers, please call for details. Discount applicable for adults only. Other exclusions and restrictions may apply. New reservations only. 

SITA World Tours

The Promotion Includes:

• Discover the “Aurora Edition” of our best-selling Iceland Complete Ring Road Tour!  
  • Receive $250 off per couple on select 2026 departures of SITA’s Iceland Complete – the Northern Lights Edition tour!  Price from $5,135 per person, based on double occupancy and land only. 

How to Book: Call SITA World Tours at 800.421.5643

Booking Window: Book by December 3, 2025

Fine Print: Valid for bookings made by 12/03/2025 for travel by 04/15/2026.  The discount offer of $250 off per couple is per booking, land only, and cannot be combined with any other offers, promotions or discounts. Discounted bookings are subject to availability in each departure at the time of booking. Other limitations apply. Visit our website for more information at www.sitatours.com.  

The Promotion Includes:

• Uncover the Hidden Powers That Shaped Iceland on This Best-Selling Tour 
• Receive $150 off per couple on select 2026 departures of SITA’s Hidden Powers & Northern Lights tour!  Price from $2,820 per person, based on double occupancy and land only.   

How to Book: Call SITA World Tours at 800.421.5643 

Booking Window: Book by December 3, 2025

Fine Print: Valid for bookings made by 12/03/2025 for travel by 03/24/2026.  The discount offer of $150 off per couple is per booking, land only, and cannot be combined with any other offers, promotions or discounts. Discounted bookings are subject to availability in each departure at the time of booking. Other limitations apply.  Visit our website for more information at www.sitatours.com.

Trafalgar

The Promotion Includes: BOGO 50% Off Global Vacations with Trafalgar + 15% off European River Cruises, Thailand, & More

How to Book: https://www.trafalgar.com/en-us/deals/black-friday-travel-deals

Booking Window: November 3 – December 4, 2025

Fine Print: Global guided vacation company, Trafalgar, is offering buy one, get one 50% off on six new trips every week during the sale period. Travelers can score additional savings of up to 15% off top itineraries throughout the sale, including on the new river cruise itinerary, Best of the Rhine and Amsterdam, Treasures of Thailand, for an exploration of Thailand’s top cities, Bangkok and Chiang Mai and a journey along the English coast on the Best of Devon and Cornwall, among others. Sale runs November 3-December 4. 

Travel Answers

The Promotion Includes: Exclusive, limited time offers on a collection of premium, air-inclusive itineraries across Asia, Africa, Europe, Australia, New Zealand, and the world’s most sought-after island escapes.

How to Book: travelanswersgroup.com/on-sale-now/passport-to-the-world-sale

Booking Window: November 24 – December 19

Fine Print: Check website.

Windstar Cruises

The Promotion Includes: Free All-Inclusive Upgrade. This covers drinks, Wi-Fi, and gratuities (a $1,350 value per couple on a 7-night cruise) plus reduced deposits of just $50 per person.

How to Book: https://www.windstarcruises.com/specials/thankful 

Booking Window: November 20 – December 2, 2025

Fine Print: Windstar is offering a complimentary All-Inclusive package (valued at $99 per guest per day) for voyages through March 31, 2027. All fares mentioned are per person, in US dollars, cruise only, based on double occupancy in lowest category. Government Taxes & Fees are additional and are published at www.windstarcruises.com. Offer is valid on new bookings only and subject to availability. Bookings are non-transferable; no name changes can be made. This offer is not combinable with any other offers and cannot be applied retroactively. Cancellation fees may apply; please see website for details. Fuel surcharges may be imposed or increased over time. Offer is capacity controlled and may be withdrawn or modified at Windstar’s discretion at any time. Information contained herein is accurate at time of publication and subject to change without notice. All terms and conditions stated on the Windstar website apply. Cruises are provided subject to the terms and conditions of the Passage Contract.   Offer expires on December 2, 2025. Ships’ registry: Bahamas. 

The post One-Stop Shopping for Global Travel Black Friday Deals appeared first on USTOA Blog.

by AAT Kings

A visit to the Northern Territory wouldn’t be complete without discovering the incredible First Nations heritage that thrives throughout the region. The Red Centre and Top End are home to numerous Aboriginal cultures, each with their own distinct traditions and stories to share. 

There are countless ways to learn about these ancient cultures during your visit. Whether through guided tours, viewing the impressive works at Indigenous art galleries, or exploring the beautiful UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscapes of Uluru-Kata Tjuta and Kakadu National Parks. Each of these experiences offers visitors a meaningful chance to learn about and appreciate the rich cultural history of Australia’s First Nations people. 

VISIT ALICE SPRINGS DESERT PARK 

Embark on a journey guided by local Aboriginal experts and explore the deep spiritual connections between the Arrernte people and the desert at Alice Springs Desert Park. Discover how their culture, knowledge of native plants, and understanding of wildlife have allowed them to thrive in one of the harshest environments on Earth. 

Nestled at the base of the stunning West MacDonnell Ranges/Tjoritja, just a short drive from Alice Springs/Mparntwe, the Desert Park offers a profound cultural experience. The park beautifully weaves together the history and traditions of the Arrernte people through three distinct desert habitats – Desert Rivers, Sand Country, and Woodland. These immersive environments provide a true sense of life in the desert. 

You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy insightful presentations by local guides, witness the spectacular free-flying bird show, and explore the Nocturnal House, where you can observe endangered species in their natural habitat. The Alice Springs Desert Park offers a unique experience where culture, nature, and conservation come together in perfect harmony.  

Visit Alice Springs Desert Park on AAT Kings Outback Adventure and Outback Safari tour. 

EXPERIENCE PUDAKAL ABORIGINAL CULTURAL TOURS 

Immerse yourself in the vibrant cultural heritage of Kakadu National Park with Pudakul Aboriginal Cultural Tours, located less than an hour away from Darwin/Gulumerrdgen. The name Pudakul comes from the Macaranga tree, which the local people use to make spears from. These tours are run by the traditional owners and custodians of Limilngan-Wulna land, providing an authentic insight into the Aboriginal way of life.  

During the tour, you can participate in hands-on activities such as basket weaving, dilly bag making, spear throwing, and didgeridoo playing. You can also learn about the local bush food (or bush tucker) and medicine, play the clapsticks, and taste traditional damper (bush bread) and tea. 

Experience Pudakal Aboriginal Cultural tours on the AAT Kings Northern Territory Explorer. 

TAKE A DAY TRIP TO THE TIWI ISLANDS 

Just a short ferry ride from Darwin across the Beagle Gulf, the Tiwi Islands – also affectionately known as the “Island of Smiles” – which you’ll soon find out why once you meet the friendly locals. The Tiwi Islands offers a rich and immersive cultural experience unlike anywhere else in Australia and the world. On this exclusive AAT Kings experience, you’ll visit the vibrant Aboriginal community of Wurrumiyanga on Bathurst Island, where tradition lives through striking art, dance, and storytelling. Explore the Patakijiyali Museum, witness a traditional smoking ceremony, and meet local artists as they paint and weave. With return ferry permits, and expert guides included, this tour provides a rare opportunity to connect with the Tiwi people and their deeply rooted culture – all in a single unforgettable day.  

Discover the Tiwi Islands on AAT Kings Tiwi Islands Aboriginal Cultural tour and the Kakadu and Tiwi Island Explorer tour. 

DISCOVER KAKADU ON A YELLOW WATER BILLABONG CRUISE 

Witness the natural wonders of Kakadu with Indigenous-owned Yellow Water Billabong Cruises, for an unforgettable journey through the heart of Kakadu National Park. Set within a World Heritage-listed site, this tranquil waterway teems with life – from saltwater crocodiles and wild buffalo to jabirus and sea eagles. Guided by local Bininj/Mungguy people, each cruise reveals the deep cultural connection between the land, water and its traditional custodians. With ever-changing scenery and rich storytelling, the Yellow Water Billabong Cruises offers one of Australia’s most iconic wildlife experiences – where every bend reveals a new moment of wonder. 

Explore the Yellow Water Billabong on AAT Kings Outback Safari and Northern Territory Explorer tours.  

There’s a lot to discover in the Northern Territory. From awe-inspiring landscapes to its rich Aboriginal heritage that make this part of Australia truly unforgettable. Experience the Australian outback with AAT Kings on a fully immersive, multi-sensory, off-the-beaten-track adventure to the Northern Territory. Whether you’re chasing red desert sunsets, exploring ancient landscapes, or connecting with rich Indigenous cultures, there’s a tour for you. 

Discover more Northern Territory tours. 

The post Discover Australia’s Aboriginal Cultural Experiences  appeared first on USTOA Blog.

By Richard Krieger, Director of Out World Journeys

There’s something uniquely special about family travel—the shared excitement of stepping off a plane in a new place, the laughter over an unfamiliar meal, and the joy of discovering the world together, and for queer families, travel is becoming more inclusive and accessible.  

Travel with family, biological or chosen, is about more than just the destination. It’s about connecting with a place and its people. It’s the ice cream shop your kids can’t stop talking about, the museum treasure hunt, connecting with locals, exploring ancient ruins or playing on the beach.  

And like all family travelers, selecting a destination that resonates with the family is key to a memorable journey. Choosing the right destination for a queer family trip often comes down to a welcoming community, safety, access and a good dose of fun. While many countries and cities have their arms wide open to the LGBTQ+ community – some do not. So, while you might be more adventurous on your own, when traveling with children, it’s important to select a place that provides a safe and welcoming atmosphere.  

To help get started, we’ve complied a short list of our top international destinations that queer families might wish to consider when planning their next getaway:  

Portugal is laid back, beautiful, and incredibly family-friendly, kids love the castles of Sintra, tram rides through Lisbon, and sunny beaches in the Algarve and the grown ups appreciate the relaxed pace, great food, and welcoming vibe. Our most popular family activities include the Lisbon Oceanarium and Lisbon Zoo, the World of Discoveries Museum in Porto, exploring the Bussaco Forest and children-friendly cooking classes.  

Japan offers the perfect blend of the traditional and modern. Families can wander Kyoto’s ancient temples and have a ninja/samurai experience, in Tokyo visit the interactive TeamLab Planets, visit Lego Land and take sushi-making classes. Top of the list for families is a ride on a speed train and a visit to see the Snow Monkeys of Nagano – where hundreds of monkeys’ roam freely and enjoy the natural hot springs. This is one not to miss! 

Costa Rica is ideal for nature-loving families. From ziplining through rainforests, taking part in a turtle rescue program or connecting with a sloth, there is an endless array of activities for families. Costa Rica also offers exciting visits to organic farms, where kids can milk cows and learn about farm life, take a chocolate making class or simply chill on one of the many beautiful beaches.  

Greece might come to mind more for a romantic getaway or honeymoon, but it’s wonderful for family travelers. In Athens, climb the hill of the Acropolis, watch the Changing of the Guard and take part in a mythology family tour complete with games and prizes. Rent a car and head out to the Peloponnese to explore ancient Olympia, visit local villages and farms and tour an olive oil making estate for a hands-on experience everyone will enjoy. And then of course – the Greek Islands await.  

To further ensure your family will have a great time, consider staying at IGLTA/TAG Approved Hotels. These properties have gone the extra step, completing a qualification and training processes reflecting their commitment to the queer travel community.  And key to the success of your is working with queer travel professionals like the team at Out World Journeys.  No one knows the queer world better than someone who is a specialist in LGBTQ+ travel and the expertise, knowledge and connections they possess are an invaluable resource for designing the perfect family vacation. 

About Richard Krieger: 

Richard Krieger, Director of Out World Journeys, has spent his career championing the power of travel as a bridge between cultures and communities. Richard has led Out World Journeys and Sky Vacations’ transformation into two of the most creative and respected brands in the travel industry and he believes deeply in the idea that travel should be joyful, authentic, and for everyone and his work reflects that mission every day. Richard is an active member of the LGBTQ+ travel community and has served two terms on the Board of Directors at IGLTA (International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association). 

About Out World Journeys: 

Out World Journeys was created to bring the same, high level of quality and service to the queer community as its sister brand, Sky Vacations does for the mainstream luxury market. With a global, expert team of tour designers, Out World Journeys focuses on itineraries that invite traveler to engage with traditional local culture and history, while focusing on LBGTQ+ culture and contributions in the places we visit. Out World Journeys is an Active Member of USTOA and a proud member of IGLTA. 

The post Queer Family Travel  appeared first on USTOA Blog.

By Deanna Caffrey 

As climate change accelerates, extreme weather events are becoming more frequent, more intense, and more disruptive to travel. From wildfires that close national parks to hurricanes that cancel flights and winter storms that strand travelers for days, these events can derail even the most well-planned trip. 

For today’s traveler, preparing for the unexpected isn’t just wise but essential. 

The Rising Impact of Weather on Travel 

In recent years, we’ve seen surges in weather-related travel disruptions. Summer wildfires in Europe and the American West have led to last-minute evacuations. Intensifying hurricane seasons have forced entire islands to shut down. Winter storms have grounded thousands of flights across North America and disrupted holiday travel for millions. 

While travelers can’t control the weather, they can take steps to minimize the fallout. 

How to Prepare for Travel During High-Risk Weather Periods 

Thoughtful preparation is the first line of defense against extreme weather disruptions. Here’s how travelers can be proactive: 

1. Know the Seasonal Risks 

Research the climate patterns and weather risks of your destination during your planned travel dates. Is it monsoon season in Southeast Asia? Hurricane season in the Caribbean? Fire season in California? Knowing what to expect helps you plan accordingly and avoid the worst times to go. 

2. Choose Flexible Travel Arrangements 

When possible, book flexible flights and accommodations. Many airlines and hotels now offer refundable or changeable options. Be sure to read the fine print before booking. Consider scheduling your trip with buffer days, especially around key events like weddings or cruises, to account for potential delays. 

3. Pack for Contingencies 

Weather can shift quickly. Pack with potential disruptions in mind: include medications, extra chargers, and important documents in your carry-on. If traveling to a high-risk area, consider a small emergency kit with basic supplies like a flashlight, power bank, and extra cash. 

4. Stay Informed 

Sign up for weather alerts, airline notifications, and local government advisories. Tools like the FEMA app, the Global Disaster Alert and Coordination System (GDACS), or your airline’s mobile app can keep you updated in real time. 

5. Share Your Plans 

Let a trusted friend or family member know your itinerary and check in periodically, especially when traveling to remote or high-risk areas. If you’re going abroad, registering with your home country’s embassy can help in case of an emergency. 

Why Travel Insurance Matters 

Even with the best planning, weather-related disruptions can strike with little warning. Travel insurance offers an added layer of protection, helping travelers recover their investment and access critical assistance when it matters most. 

Depending on the plan, travel insurance may cover: 

• Trip cancellations or interruptions due to weather-related issues 

• Non-refundable expenses, such as prepaid hotels or excursions 

• Delayed or cancelled flights, including overnight accommodations 

• Emergency evacuations in the event of wildfires, floods, or hurricanes 

• 24/7 travel and medical assistance, especially valuable in remote or impacted areas 

Travelers should read their policy carefully to understand what is and isn’t covered. Coverage for “known events” may be limited, and some policies require purchase before a storm is named or a wildfire is active. 

Planning with Peace of Mind 

As extreme weather becomes a more consistent part of our reality, being prepared is no longer optional. It’s part of responsible travel. By researching risks, staying flexible, and purchasing travel insurance, travelers can better adapt to changing conditions and continue exploring the world with confidence. 

At Redpoint Travel Protection, we recommend travelers consider coverage that includes medical assistance, evacuation, and trip interruption for extreme weather events. Our programs like Ripcord and Cavalry were designed with unpredictable moments in mind. 

About Redpoint Travel Protection

Redpoint Travel Protection is a one-of-a-kind protection provider. It provides an extensive suite of travel insurance products and emergency services for individuals and groups of all sizes. Backed by a seasoned team of experts, Redpoint offers unparalleled peace of mind to adventurers across the globe. With services such as trip cancellation, interruption, delay, and baggage loss insurance, to emergency medical and evacuation services, Redpoint ensures your safety and satisfaction are top priorities. Our services are tailored to meet the diverse needs of travelers, whether it’s an international family vacation, a solo adventure, or a corporate trip. Leveraging innovative technology and a responsive, 24/7 customer support, Redpoint effectively addresses contingencies, enabling clients to explore with confidence. Choose Redpoint Travel Protection, your reliable partner in ensuring safe, secure, and worry-free journeys.

The post Extreme Weather & Travel: How to Plan for the Unexpected  appeared first on USTOA Blog.

By Ryan Greenwood, Pleasant Holidays 

Imagine you’re stranded. Now, consider you’re just lost.  

The difference between being lost or stranded is the duration for which you’re unaccounted for by the group and your continuing prospects for catching another ride.  

If you were on a path, traveling in a group with a known destination and estimated time of arrival (ETA), then you should use that information as your North Star. Absent any part of this equation, finding your sense of direction may take a balancing act of improvisation and compromises.  

Most people stray too far from the path when initially separated from a group. That’s just inviting complications. So don’t wander. Stay where you first lost track of your travel party and wait there.  

Groups using the buddy system take a regular headcount. That means people will be looking for you, too. So, make their job easier. Don’t start your own ill-advised ‘search’ when you’re likely the target of a search effort. In other words, don’t make yourself a moving target for a group looking for you. 

Remember to stay hydrated. Keep that potable water bottle close. It’s the intrepid traveler’s version of a soldier’s canteen, and you’ll need that.  

Do you have a smartphone? This is hardly the first time this has been pointed out, but that little gadget has more computing power than the United States used to put astronauts on the moon. Let your emergency contacts know where you are and try to get hold of someone in your group. Set your outgoing phone message noting your location and your situation. Use primarily text messages to preserve battery power. 

In the world before ubiquitous cell phone presence, people had to agree on a time to meet up and rely on each other to keep plans. That usually worked because contingency plans were made in advance. Without the convenience of an existing contingency plan, you should rely on the next best thing: your resiliency. 

Just for a moment, consider that, right now, you are exactly where you are supposed to be. This point is not a philosophical one. It is about making a functional shift in your mindset to get through this ordeal. The same positive framework that keeps you looking for the next opportunity will likely get you all the way home. 

You’ll need to find a way to communicate with your group. Authority figures are usually best equipped and reliable to help. When you encounter other people, find your voice. Tell them your story. Spread news of your dilemma. Because word travels, some of these initial feelers may pay off. International travelers may find all they’re looking for at the U.S. Embassy.  

From the point you realize you’re stranded, it’s important to set your intention. You’ll need to build upon the associations you make with other people. Make fast friends and utilize any connection that you can to bridge the gap. Your goal should be to extend the timeline.   

The specifics of where you get lost or stranded will likely determine the best course of action. The uniqueness of your location should be your guide. Look to nearby landmarks and natural gathering places. In general, the more people around, the better your odds of meeting up with someone looking for you. Try to think of places nearby with a steady flow of pedestrian traffic. If you can set up shop in a nearby café and watch pedestrians go by, even better. 

If you are truly stranded, the biggest mistake you can make is not asking for help. The kindness of strangers can be legendary. 

• Make associations. 

• Find your voice. Be vocal about your situation. Ask for help. 

• Set your intention. Use your skill set. Make allies. Cast a wide net. 

• Extend your timeline. Seek out opportunities. Take action selectively. 

• Stay aware. Keep an eye out for people who may be able to help. Be flexible as alternate lodging and travel opportunities present themselves. 

About Pleasant Holidays and its Brands: 

Founded in 1959, Pleasant Holidays is one of the largest tour operators in the United States offering vacation packages, flights, hotels, cruises, car rentals, travel protection and related travel services to the world’s most popular destinations, including Africa, Asia, Australia, Canada, Caribbean, Central & South America, Europe, Hawaii, Mexico, Middle East, New Zealand, South Pacific (Cook Islands, Fiji and Tahiti), United States and cruise vacations worldwide. The Company’s portfolio of travel brands includes Pleasant Holidays, luxury brand Journese^®, activities, tours and excursions brand Pleasant Activities℠ and worldwide air consolidator Air By Pleasant. Pleasant Holidays is headquartered in Westlake Village, Calif. near Los Angeles with regional offices in San Diego and Honolulu and a dedicated team of more than 400 employees. For additional information and reservations, visit www.PleasantAgent.com, www.Journese.com, www.PleasantActivities.com, and www.AirByPleasant.com.  

The post STRANDED & ABANDONED: How to Find Your Bearings on the Road When Everything Goes South  appeared first on USTOA Blog.

By Melissa DaSilva 

 Deputy Chief Executive Officer of TTC Tour Brands  (Trafalgar, Insight Vacations, Brendan Vacations, Costsaver, Contiki, and Luxury Gold )

It’s undeniable: Modern travel has evolved beyond simply checking off bucket list items. Yes, travelers are hoping to visit their dream destinations and must-see sites, but that’s just one facet of their vacation. Those same guests also want deeper, more authentic connections with their destinations.  

They said it. We heard it.  

TTC Tour Brands has followed this culturally integrative mindset for decades, consistently drawing on our knowledge of global communities, 100+ years of experience and the passion of our Travel Directors and Local Specialists to bring our guests immersive, deeply real travel, offering guests moments they couldn’t find on their own.   

Beyond being a hallmark of how we think about tour travel, by drawing on knowledge to inform authenticity, we progressively built our iconic, unforgettable moments like Be My Guest and MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience into every tour. 

It takes work to find just the right places, plates and people to give guests what they want. But the challenge is matching that with a connection they may have never considered, striking a balance between the unexpected, the authentic and often, the delicious.

Breaking Bread, Bridging Cultures 

Foodie travel is easily one of the most significant trends that shows no signs of slowing down. It’s not just the rare dishes, upscale dining or the elite tables. There’s a strong demand among travelers for genuine and accessible dining experiences where guests can break bread together with local communities. Think “I want to eat where the locals eat,” and that’s where Trafalgar’s Be My Guest shines. 

Be My Guest brings our guests into homes, restaurants, farms and orchards where real people, share their culture and heritage, with travelers and show their pride for what they do. They foster cultural exchange through food, making every bite a story worth telling. 

Consistently a top “Must-Visit” destination, Italy is celebrated for its eating, and after a long day of touring the Vatican, seeing the ruins and tossing a coin into the Trevi Fountain, what a Be My Guest Experience brings is a sense of community, and a real “Famiglia Style” dining cultural experience. It’s not just eating dinner at the end of the day – it’s meeting the family who owns and operates the restaurant and sharing Nonna’s personal favorite pasta dish made just for the occasion with everyone in the group.  

Amplifying Local Voices 

In addition to exploring culture and heritage, embedded in the careful selection of our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences is a focus on conservation, connection, cultural preservation, and also diversity and inclusion, and wildlife protection.  

Connecting our guests with projects from TTC Tour Brands’ nonprofit TreadRight through MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences means their travel supports the communities in the places that we visit beyond just the high tourism centers.   

These experiences bring cultures, traditions and heritage arts into focus such as traditional frame loom weaving atelier Laboratorio Giuditta Brozzetti in Italy, The Cristina Heeren Foundation of Flamenco Art in Spain, and the Warrior Women experience in Jasper, Canada. 

Matricia Bauer founded Warrior Women to share educational Sturgeon Lake Cree First Nations women experiences to travelers based on traditions and learnings passed down within their community. It not only offers a different perspective for guests, but it allows the Warrior Women group the opportunity to put their traditions into practice, bringing outsiders into their culture for a rare look at customs nearly lost through colonialism. 

Bauer has said that when tourists attend her events and are specifically interested in the work of Warrior Women, a visit becomes a reciprocal exchange providing a unique space for relationships to be formed, authentically.  

“If colonization is defined as the lack of relationship, then decolonization is the creation of relationship, and tourism is the connector,” said Bauer recently. “I get to tell my story through my voice.” 

Unlocking The World, One Connection At A Time 

It is easy to say (and commonly heard) that, “Travel is the best way to better understand our world.” 

Behind the warmth of that sentiment is our reality: Vast networks of people who are working in tandem to make travel a reality, all committed to sharing global, cultural experiences. From sourcing and prioritizing souvenir purchases directly from local artisans to vetting and curating experiences that benefit locals in their communities, we have built a worldwide community relationship founded on trust, and a passion for sharing our world with a range of tour options to meet any and everyone. 

About the Author 

Melissa DaSilva is Deputy Chief Executive Officer of TTC Tour Brands with an industry career spanning 30 years and has worked in both the US and the UK.  She has been recognized for her ability to rapidly adjust in a changing business environment, resulting in enhanced business practices, increased productivity, and profits.  She has a proven success record of recruiting and developing strong, collaborative teams and delivering consistency in multi-channel organizations  

The Travel Corporation family of brands is deeply committed to MAKE TRAVEL MATTER.  We recognize our responsibility to ensure our impact on the planet, the people we visit, and the wildlife we find there. Choosing to travel with us means choosing a travel company that puts sustainability at the heart of everything we do.  

Travel is both a personal passion and a professional pursuit. She is motivated by the impact travel has and believes that travel has a tremendously positive effect on people.  It helps broaden perspectives through the connectivity of shared experiences of adventure, exploration, learning and laughter showing how we are all more alike than different.              

An avid traveler herself to more than 50 countries, Melissa currently resides in Southern California with her Brazilian husband and two daughters, with whom she has shared the travel bug.  

About TTC Tour Brands   

The ease of touring has never been more important nor relevant, and no one does tours better than TTC Tour Brands. The portfolio includes the award-winning brands of Luxury Gold, Insight Vacations, Trafalgar, Brendan Vacations, Costsaver and Contiki. TTC Tour Brands are the global leaders in tours for any and everyone.  From budget to luxury and everything in between, the portfolio brings agents access to over 1000 tours, across 80+ countries via one single sales, reservations and marketing team, with the added ease of a single sign on booking platform. 

The post Surrounded by Knowledge: Transforming client experience with authentic cultural connection   appeared first on USTOA Blog.

By Ricko Tindage, Director of Sales at Elite Voyages

Since “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” was released in the U.S. in 2000 and eventually garnered the Oscar in 2001 for best foreign-language film, this martial arts movie has captured the imagination of American and international audiences worldwide. 

I was fortunate to visit Anhui Province in November of last year, where many of the shooting locations of “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” were located. This movie was so groundbreaking, helmed by Mr. Ang Lee as director, that many pundits in Hollywood did not give too much attention to it before its release. Yet the film, released in December 2000, would earn $128 million in the U.S. (or roughly $218 million today) and became a box office hit. The movie became what remains by far the highest-grossing non-English-language film, receiving 10 Oscar nominations and winning four. 

One scene that many audiences won’t easily forget is the sword fight scene between the two main characters while flying over the bamboo trees. This fight scene became a classic in itself. In 2023, the movie celebrated its 20th year, and a re-mastered version on DVD was released for a new generation of movie buffs. There’s no question that the film became a classic, and anyone who has watched this film treasures it as a collectible item. 

Two locations for “Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon” where they made the movie that I visited… are Huangshan (Mt. Huangshan or Yellow Mountain), and Hongcun Village. 

Yellow Mountain, also known as Huangshan in Chinese, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was inscribed on the list in 1990 for its remarkable scenery, including granite peaks, ancient pine trees, and cloud formations. The mountain is famed for its unique geological formations, including peculiarly shaped granite peaks, hot springs, and ancient, gnarled pine trees that cling to the rocks in improbable locations. The scenic area encompasses notable peaks like the Lotus Peak, Bright Summit, and the Heavenly Capital Peak. Huangshan has been the source of inspiration for Chinese poets, painters, and philosophers for centuries, embodying the quintessential beauty of the Chinese wilderness. 

Hongcun and Xidi are traditional villages dating back to the Ming and Qing Dynasties. These two ancient villages are designated as UNESCO World Heritage Site. Notable for their distinctive architecture and their layouts that reflect the traditional Chinese Feng Shui and rural life. Xidi and Hongcun are characterized by their narrow lanes, ornate Huizhou-style houses with white walls and dark tiled roofs, and elaborate carvings that decorate windows, doors, and beams. Both villages are set against a backdrop of picturesque landscapes, with Hongcun famous for its water system designed to resemble the shape of an ox, demonstrating an ingenious integration of the community with its environment. 

About the author: Ricko Tindage is the Director of Sales and Marketing at Elite Voyages. In addition to selling and marketing to the travel agent community, he creates new tour products.  Originally from Bali, Indonesia, Ricko has called Los Angeles home since 1981.  His academic background was in hotel management. He has had hotel stints in Jakarta, Indonesia; Brussels, Belgium and Los Angeles. Instead of a career in the hotel industry, the tour and travel industry has shaped the majority of his professional career.  He started in the travel industry in 1990, Ricko has always been in the hospitality industry, even his spouse was a former director of sales at a major U.S. hotel chain. Before working for Elite Voyages he served in several major U.S. tour operators namely UNIWORLD River Cruises and SITA World Tours. In between, he has developed and created small boutique-style tour operators specialized in incentive travels, honeymoons, destination weddings, luxury travels, and leasing private jets. One of these tour companies was Romance Travel Concierge, a luxury boutique outfit based in Pasadena, CA, and he was president of the company.  

About Elite Voyages:  Bespoke journeys are our specialty at Elite Voyages. Founded in 2019 as a luxury entity for Chinatour.com (established in 2002) our parent company, we have been strongly a believer in providing the most authentic and enriching tour experiences for our discerning travelers through the relentless commitment of our earnest and knowledgeable team before, during and after all journeys. Nothing is left to chance when every itinerary is carefully planned – selecting the best accommodation guests can enjoy, exciting connoisseurs with select culinary exploits, and amazing travelers with must-see sights and entertainment – so that every guest can always be assured of top quality and uniqueness in travel experiences.  

The post Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon…Anyone?  appeared first on USTOA Blog.

By: Jennifer Castle, Pleasant Holidays 

A recent American Express global travel trends report showcased that the new generation of jetsetters are looking to prioritize the connection and wellbeing of local communities as they travel. A few ways this can be achieved are by supporting local businesses, using public transportation, volunteering, or by simply giving yourself more time within each destination. Because the sustainable approach is such a driving force in tourism today, we thought it might be best to break it down further, to discover what more can be done to build up community-based tourism and connect with the cultures we seek to explore.  

Research Before You Go  

Attention is often paid to flights and accommodation, so the history and sustainable efforts of a neighborhood can sometimes be overlooked. One way to ensure it isn’t, is to lay out your itinerary ahead of time. Draft a timeline that reflects your values for the community. Consider what time of year you’ll visit. This will help combat crowds, overtourism, and environmental damage that a peak travel season can bring. Find out if your accommodations have sustainable policies or practices, such as a refillable water station or recycling program, and include them in your travel routine. Engaging in these eco-friendly policies can help to reduce your carbon footprint.

Learn a few key words or phrases, to help bridge the communication gap. “Hello,” “please,” and “thank you,” can go a long way. If you’ve decided to volunteer, be sure to investigate a few organizations. Look into who founded it, how long it’s been running, and where the aid primarily goes.  The answers to these questions will ultimately help you decide which fits your moral compass best.  

Photo Courtesy of Pleasant Holidays 

Travel Sustainably     

Water conservation, energy-efficient lighting, waste reduction, local organic food, or eco-friendly transportation, are just a few ways the hospitality industry has chosen to lower its carbon footprint. So, it’s now easier than ever for guests to maintain a strong sustainable travel plan. For example, if the hotel provides refillable water sources, be sure to pack a reusable water bottle. If public transportation is nearby, make it your primary means of getting around. Eat at local mom and pop shops rather than corporate chains. Go for the environmentally friendly sunscreen or bug sprays over those with several chemicals or aerosols, keeping oceans and freshwater ecosystems (which at times can be a community’s primary source of drinking water), safe from any toxins.    

Another step towards sustainability is how we engage with wildlife tourist attractions. According to the Wildlife Conservation Research Unit (WildCRU), “up to 4 million tourists who visit non-zoo tourist attractions involving wildlife are likely to be contributing to large-scale animal welfare abuses and are typically unaware of their impacts.” This is another reason why prior research is so important.   

Photo Courtesy of Pleasant Holidays 

Mindful Towards Culture  

Slow down and take time with your travel by giving yourself a few days in each location. Get outside and connect with the local landscape. Find time to travel alone or try taking a cultural tour or class. Ask questions and challenge yourself to meet new people. Use the notes from prior research to abide by any laws, traditions, or social norms that come up for the area. Taking a few of these steps can bring richer connections and cultural exchanges throughout your stay.   

Photo Courtesy of Pleasant Holidays

Support Local Economies   

Put your money where the culture is and invest in activities that connect you with the local environment. Visit monthly events (such as Pride), music festivals, or art shows. Plan a picnic in the park, using unique foods collected from the neighborhood market. Explore local shops, restaurants, and classes. Travel with locals by booking tours that involve the community. Overall, support small business, especially those led by women and minorities. Supporting the local economy is also a great way to ensure that your loved ones will be receiving unique and special souvenirs.   

Be sure to give those small businesses a shout-out on social media. Take photos and share the stories but then tag the local businesses involved, to continue encouraging and inspiring community-based tourism.  

Your travel choices have a significant impact on the community. Small changes can go a long way. It begins with respect and an open mind for the culture, the history, and the traditions that attracted you in the first place.  

About Pleasant Holidays

Founded in 1959, Pleasant Holidays is one of the largest tour operators in the United States offering vacation packages, flights, hotels, cruises, car rentals, travel protection and related travel services to the world’s most popular destinations, including Africa, Asia, Canada, Caribbean, Central & South America, Europe, Hawaii, Mexico, Middle East, South Pacific (Cook Islands, Fiji and Tahiti), United States and cruise vacations worldwide. The Company’s portfolio of travel brands includes Pleasant Holidays, luxury brand Journese^®, activities, tours and excursions brand Pleasant Activities℠ and worldwide air consolidator Air By Pleasant. Pleasant Holidays is headquartered in Westlake Village, Calif. near Los Angeles with regional offices in San Diego and Honolulu and a dedicated team of more than 400 employees. For additional information and reservations, visit www.PleasantAgent.com, www.Journese.com, www.PleasantActivities.com, and www.AirByPleasant.com.

The post <strong>Embracing Community as You Travel: Ways to ethically connect with culture and community</strong>    appeared first on USTOA Blog.