Six Benefits of Traveling with a USTOA Tour Operator

Six Benefits of Traveling with a USTOA Tour Operator

By Terry Dale, President and CEO of the United States Tour Operators Association

Only tour operators who meet the highest standards of care, integrity, and insurance can become members of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA). These U.S. based companies take travelers to the farthest corners of the earth, offering unparalleled access, peace of mind, and protection every step of the way.

During times of crisis – pandemics, natural disasters, even political upheaval – tour operators are uniquely positioned to assist their guests to ensure they return home safely. In times of uncertainty, the tour operator members of USTOA enable consumers to travel with confidence.

Find a full roundup of the 150 tour operator members by visiting the Member Directory and discover itineraries based on activity, destination, and duration at USTOA.com/dream-vacation.

What’s so special about tour operators who are members of USTOA? Here are six benefits to traveling with one:

Protect Your Trip

The $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program protects your trip when you book with a USTOA tour operator. Companies must qualify for the program to become a member, which, among other requirements, stipulates that in the case of a company’s bankruptcy or insolvency, all your tour payments are protected up to an aggregate of $1 million dollars.

Travel Confidently

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, USTOA has released a set of health and sanitization guidelines specifically for tour operators. The TOURCARE Guidelines were developed in collaboration with the Canadian Association of Tour Operators (CATO) and the European Tourism Association (ETOA). These guidelines set a universal standard for all tour operator members.

Have Peace of Mind

If unforeseen problems arise, a tour escort, local host, or representative is always there to assist travelers. Vacations that are planned by trusted industry professionals bring this peace of mind when traveling domestically or abroad.

Save Money

By buying in bulk and negotiating special rates for accommodations, transportation, meals, and more, tour operators can offer substantial savings to the traveler. Plus, prepaying for trips allow travelers to budget for vacations with greater certainty. Every cost and inclusion are presented upfront, and there’s a convenience of “one-stop shopping” for the vacation, which, rather than booking every hotel, meal, and transportation separately, also saves considerable time.

Find Variety and Flexibility

Tour operators offer packaged travel to meet any vacation dream: solo travelers, multi-generational families, honeymooners, river cruise fanatics, and the most adventurous guests can find an itinerary that fits their interests with thousands of trips and a wide range of budget to choose from. Many itineraries are flexible and can be custom-made to allow for freedom to explore a destination on your own or add on new experiences.

Gain Unparalleled Access

With insider information that is not in any guidebook, on-the-ground experts bring a unique perspective to the trip and find the best hidden gems to share with guests. By negotiating with local companies and hard-to-visit attractions, guides offer a new level of accessibility. Locally crafted itineraries take travelers beyond the hot spots and offer fulfilling and educational experiences, from eating a home-cooked meal to taking an art class.

Representing nearly $19 billion in revenue, the member companies of the United States Tour Operators Association provide tours, packages and custom arrangements that allow 9.8 million travelers annually unparalleled access, insider knowledge, peace-of-mind, value and freedom to enjoy destinations and experiences across the entire globe. Each member company has met the travel industry’s highest standards, including participation in the USTOA’s Travelers Assistance Program, which protects consumer payments up to $1 million if the company goes out of business.  As a voice for the tour operator industry for more than 40 years, USTOA also provides education and assistance for consumers and travel agents.

Why Danube River Cruises Are Perfect for Every Kind of Traveler

Why Danube River Cruises Are Perfect for Every Kind of Traveler

By Kristin Karst, Co-Founder and Executive Vice President at AmaWaterways

Europe’s Danube River runs through the heart of Old-World Europe where empires were built, kings and queens were crowned and some of the world’s greatest music was composed. A journey along this legendary river offers the quintessential cruise experience – perfect for both first-time and experienced river cruisers alike. Along the Danube River, you’ll see grand capitals like Vienna, Austria; Bratislava, Slovakia; and Budapest, Hungary. You’ll also see villages so charming and picturesque it’s as if they’ve been lifted from the pages of a storybook.

One of my favorite things about Danube River cruises is there is something for everyone to experience and enjoy.

Family Travelers

AmaWaterways is a family-owned and -operated company, so welcoming multi-generational families and accommodating their different needs has always been important to me. We’ve made sure that no matter who is sailing and what their interests are, each family member can choose their own adventure and explore at their own pace. There is so much variety in the tours we offer on the Danube River. An active family member may wish to hike up to Castle Hill in Budapest, Hungary, while another “foodie” in the family may prefer savoring local flavors at the city’s Great Market Hall. The best part for me is watching families gather back together during our Sip & Sail complimentary cocktail hour and share stories about the exciting things they discovered during the day.

Food and Wine Enthusiasts

Many travelers like to engage with the world through local culinary experiences, seeking out new flavors they cannot find anywhere else. Their taste buds will delight in the flavors along the Danube River where we offer many included Special Interest Tours to discover regional favorites like the finest apricots and liqueur in Dürnstein, Austria and Slovak cheese and sausage in Bratislava. They can also sample Bavarian beer during an exclusive Oktoberfest celebration in Vilshofen, Germany while enjoying a performance of Bavarian folk music and dance for a truly memorable experience. While on board, they can indulge in regionally inspired cuisine like Wiener schnitzel and rich sachertorte or enjoy a multi-course tasting menu at The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant – included in the price of the river cruise. Wine connoisseurs can enjoy a specially curated Danube River Wine Cruise where they benefit from an expert Wine Host on board to conduct informative wine tasting sessions and accompany them as they discover the local Riesling and Grüner Veltliner wines of Austria’s famed Wachau Valley region.

Active Travelers

There are endless opportunities to stay active while exploring the timeless cities along the Danube River, including a stunning guided hike up to Slovakia’s Bratislava Castle or Serbia’s Fruška Gora National Park and an exhilarating bike ride from Dürnstein, Austria to Melk, Austria. Active travelers also enhance their best selves on board by participating in complimentary wellness activities led by a professional Wellness Host – from morning stretching on the Sun Deck while sailing into Weissenkirchen, Austria to engaging cardio and dance classes.

“Maximum Relaxation” Travelers

Sometimes it’s the small, quiet moments that are the most profound for travelers – whether it’s simply reading a book on the Sun Deck and savoring the moment while watching the Danube River scenery pass by or sipping local wines enjoying the Hungarian Parliament building illuminated magnificently at night. Others, inspired by Mozart, revel in the classical music played live on board, which further sets the scene for their journey.

Girlfriend/Guys’ Getaway Groups

Guests traveling with treasured friends are able to strengthen their existing bonds and create new lasting memories together. Laughs are shared over a glass of local Grüner Veltliner wine on board and old favorite stories are often relived during excursions to places like Mondsee – where the wedding scene in The Sound of Music was filmed. Another favorite for groups of friends is visiting the Danube River’s magical Christmas Markets in cities like Vienna, Budapest and Passau, where newly found treasures are shared over gingerbread and mugs of mulled wine.

As you can see, everyone is in for the experience of a lifetime when cruising the Danube River!

A native of Dresden, Germany, Kristin Karst is one of the leading executives in the travel industry known for her unwavering support of travel advisors and her personal commitment to pioneering innovative guest services. She co-founded AmaWaterways with Rudi Schreiner and Jimmy Murphy in 2002 and has been profiled in several top-tier travel trade and consumer publications. Kristin was honored with the prestigious Travel Vanguard Award by AFAR Media and the Lifetime Achievement Award from Travel Weekly.

AmaWaterways – a family-owned company celebrating 18 years on the river – leads the river cruise industry in innovation and offers unforgettable river cruises with 25 ships sailing the rivers of Europe, Southeast Asia and Africa, including Egypt. The company has the highest-rated ships in Europe according to the third edition of Berlitz: River Cruising in Europe & the USA and has received countless honors and accolades including Cruise Critic’s Editor’s Pick Award for “Best for Active Cruisers”; 2018 AFAR Reader’s Choice Award for “Best River Cruise Line” and inclusion of AmaMagna in 2019 TIME “World’s Greatest Places” as well as USA Today’s 10Best Readers’ Choice Award for “Best River Cruise Ship.”

How You Can be Part of Sustainable Travel NOW

How You Can be Part of Sustainable Travel NOW

By Allegra Lynch, President of Authentic Vacations

When we think of sustainable travel, what comes to mind is the energy we use to go from one place to another. Exciting prospects are on that horizon. At the last World Economic Forum, many attendees arrived in jets powered by SAF—Sustainable Aviation Fuel. This fuel comes from refined plants or waste products as opposed to fossil fuels—it’s a lot more earth-friendly. How about going electric? We’ll see that for short flights by the end of this decade.

But sustainable travel is so much more, and that more can offset the carbon footprint. We just need to be aware, and active, around the other important aspects of sustainability.

Being considerate of the environment and contributing to local businesses are huge parts of the sustainable equation. Positively impacting a society is, too—that includes teaching, helping a community achieve economic freedom, and medical care. But let’s talk about what we can all do right now.

Whether we’re traveling for business, taking a trip we’ve dreamed about forever, exploring with friends and family, or venturing out solo on a whim, we can actively support sustainability. Our checklist includes using local transportation and lodgings , diving into the culinary scene, shopping for items by area artists and craftspeople, and encouraging communication. (And each is a unique opportunity to create memories.)

Step out of the familiar. Immerse yourself in the people, nature, culture, and customs of the places you visit. Doing this sends your happiness quotient soaring, and it boosts the well-being of the area you’re discovering.

I’ve been travelling for decades—my parents got me off to an early start. I consider that to be an enormous stroke of good luck. Travel has taught me to move seamlessly through various cultures, both abroad and at home. It has supported my ability to face challenges while remaining calm. It makes me, I hope, a more understanding person.

Travel shapes us. We become resilient, self-confident and empathetic. These qualities serve us in our personal lives, but they also create healthy, global interactions. We truly are one. We see our differences disappear when we travel with people and understand their cultures.

My earliest memories are of back roads. They were green and twisted, punctuated by homes with peeling paint and families on the front porch. Roadside stands, with farm women selling fresh jams and juices, were always worth a stop. I remember one stand where an ancient man, who sparkled, sold his hand-carved red birds. (I still have mine.) The money he earned went into a tin coffee can, and you can bet that money was spent in the grocery store down the street.

My wish is for travelers to experience their vacations, even if they’re in a big city, as if they’re on a back road. I want them to dip into local cultures and see life through new eyes. Harmonious relations are definitely part of fostering a green world, and strong communities support our drive for innovation and need for security.

I encourage travelers to welcome awe. When we’re filled with wonder, two things happen: We don’t have anxiety—wonder and anxiety cannot co-exist, it’s simply impossible. Here’s the second thing that happens when wonder is a player: We feel deep appreciation for natural beauty and we want to protect it. Walk through an ancient grove in Scotland, see a reindeer herd, and tell me you don’t care what happens to them. I won’t believe you!

Consider experiences and places off the beaten path that boost locals. Natural wonders, vibrant food scenes, arts and crafts, homemade music and festivals, and unique wellness opportunities are all elements of sustainable travel.

Here’s how to be part of the sustainable travel movement:

Buy local products.
Use local guides.
Avoid chain lodgings
Support local economies. (St-Georges-Market_Belfast.jpg)
Be a tidy traveler—don’t leave trash behind.
Enjoy fresh-to-fork foods. (Mushroom-Foraging-Leitrim.jpg.)
Look for flights with the fewest stops.

Last and definitely not least:

Accept kindness and spread joy. Nothing creates a healthier planet.

Allegra Lynch is President of Authentic Vacations, the US brand of Tour Partner Group. She sits on the board of directors for Tour Partner Group, a multi-national collection of destination management companies headquartered in London. In her role as President, she uses the latest technologies, paired with unique local in-destination products, to provide authentic travel experiences, with an eye on customization, to travelers worldwide. Her goal is to build healthy relationships on every level of the travel industry. Her joy is to travel mindfully and with curiosity.

Authentic Vacations specializes in creating customizable itineraries, featuring a variety of authentic experiences and accommodations. All are carefully vetted to ensure that every client has a unique adventure, one that they choose. As a division of the esteemed Tour Partner Group (TPG), Authentic Vacations is a leading travel provider for destinations across the globe. With its culturally-diverse staff of travel experts, and offices in Dublin, London, Edinburgh, Copenhagen, Scottsdale, and San Francisco, Authentic Vacations offers a level of personalization and client support that is unsurpassed in the travel industry.

Top Five Wildlife Encounters Off the Beaten Path

Top Five Wildlife Encounters Off the Beaten Path

By: Kelsi Auld, TCS World Travel

Nothing compares to the thrill of seeing animals in the wild. From encountering loveable lemurs only found in Madagascar to witnessing the epic Great Migration across the African savanna, first-hand animal experiences create unforgettable vacations, cherished memories and a deep appreciation for nature that lasts long after returning home. Discover how you can venture off the beaten track with TCS World Travel, who has been taking guests on incredible around-the-world journeys for over 25 years, to encounter extraordinary wildlife and enjoy adventure along the way.

Photo Courtesy of Karine Aigner

1. FOLLOW THE TRACKS OF TIGERS IN RANTHAMBORE NATIONAL PARK

On TCS World Travel’s upcoming Wildlife and Natural Wonders expedition, explore Ranthambore, once the royal hunting grounds for maharajas and the ideal destination for observing wild tigers in their natural habitat. Ranthambore National Park works hard to protect the diverse wildlife within its borders, including some 80 Royal Bengal tigers who rule their own dedicated sanctuary. Accompanied by an expert naturalist, embark on an early-morning game drive amid the dry tropical forests, scenic lakes and open grasslands for your best chance to follow the tigers in their daily routines.

Photo Courtesy of Karine Aigner

2. COME FACE-TO-FACE WITH MOUNTAIN GORILLAS IN RWANDA

Take the trek of a lifetime into the Rwandan rain forest and discover one of the most moving animal experiences: to observe the highly endangered mountain gorilla in the wild. These peaceful and powerful giants live in groups of up to 30 individuals and make their home in only three places in the world. Hike through the thick forests of Volcanoes National Park with knowledgeable local guides in search of a mountain gorilla family, and watch in awe as they munch leaves, groom each other and play.

3. WITNESS THE WILDLIFE OF THE MASAI MARA FROM ABOVE

Observe one of the world’s most ancient migration rituals from a hot air balloon. Every year, more than 30 species of herbivores and nearly 500 species of birds make the perilous trek across the Masai Mara plains, following the rains in search of lush feeding grounds. With a breathtaking bird’s-eye view, watch as the sun rises over the golden African savanna and witness millions of migrating wildlife—including wildebeest, zebras and gazelles—pour over the seemingly endless horizon.

4. SPOT ENDEMIC LEMURS IN MADAGASCAR

Due to its geographic isolation from Africa’s mainland, Madagascar is one of the most biodiverse places on Earth. Some 80 percent of the island’s plants and animals exist nowhere else on the planet. And of all Madagascar’s impressive inhabitants, the most famous may be the lemur—60 species of this big-eyed mammal call the island home. From ring-tailed and wild black to Hawks’ sportive and Sifaka, see how many lemurs you can spot as you traverse the lush Lokobe National Park or Canyon des Singes (Canyon of Monkeys) with an expert naturalist guide.

5. ADVENTURE ACROSS LAPLAND BY DOG SLED

Explore Finland’s rugged frontier on TCS World Travel’s Winter Wonders expedition, offered during “Northern Lights season” when conditions are just right for spotting this astounding natural light display. Experience how Laplanders traveled before the arrival of snowmobiles by embarking on a snow safari by dog sled. Listen to the skids hissing softly as the dogs reach speed and the sled glides across the snow-covered wonderland. Set out on a nighttime ride to float underneath the breathtaking sky, or make the most of the precious daylight hours and opt for a daytime ride where you can get the chance to drive the team of huskies through snowy fells and forests with a dog sledding expert.

Want to learn more about these immersive wildlife experiences? Check out TCS World Travel’s upcoming journeys and discover how you can encounter some of the world’s most incredible creatures by private jet.

TCS World Travel has been enriching lives through jet expeditions and custom itineraries for over 25 years. With over 300 luxury jet expeditions to more than 200 destinations, TCS World Travel is the most experienced jet expedition company in the world. This expertise has led them to be named a top Tour Operator by Travel + Leisure magazine three years in a row.

How To Prepare For A National Park Visit

How to Prepare for a National Park Visit

By Betsy O’Rourke of Xanterra Travel Collection

Known as “the best idea we ever had,” America’s national parks are glorious icons of the country’s natural beauty. And, with proper preparation, the parks — from California’s Death Valley to Wyoming’s Yellowstone — can offer some of the most spectacular and unforgettable experiences. Follow these 10 savvy tips to prepare for a visit as epic as the scenery.

1. Choose the right park.

First, choose the right park. While the famous parks are the undisputed show stealers, don’t discount the under-the-radar ones for worthwhile experiences, too.

The National Park Service offers useful tools to help you find the right park, plan your activities, get the right permits, check the rules, and find local tours that help you get the most out of your trip. The Find A Park site is searchable by park, state, activity, and topic. Recreation.gov is its self-service trip-planning site. FindYourPark.com, a collaboration between the NPS and the National Park Foundation, has a park finder filtered by activity, state, zip code, and park name. Xanterra Travel Collection operates the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Glacier, Zion, Death Valley, Mt. Rushmore and Rocky Mountain national parks. Go to www.xanterra.com for lodging, dining and activity inspiration.

2. Know when to go.

While spring break and summer are by far the most popular times to visit a national park, if you have more freedom in your calendar, choose the shoulder season and avoid the crowds. Parks such as Death Valley are actually best in winter when temperatures are in the 70’s and 80’s with little to no rainfall. Enjoy the spring fed pools with 86-degree water, the lowest elevation golf course in the world, and completely refurbished rooms and restaurants at the Oasis at Death Valley as well as the majestic views, amazing hikes and brilliant night skies the park offers. Other parks like Zion and the Grand Canyon are magical in winter, and at Yellowstone, the winter snow makes animals easier to spot.

3. Plan your activities.

To the extent possible, develop a plan for your visit. Pick the right activities and determine the skill level needed to safely enjoy them. Rather than racing around trying to see everything, prioritize a few key things. Start with the park website or if you’re already onsite, go to the park visitor center. Many offer free Ranger-guided and Junior Ranger programs. There are also many tours available, like the famous Red Bus Tours at Glacier operated by Xanterra or many yellow bus tours at Yellowstone, including the family favorite old-fashioned covered wagon BBQ.

4. Check park regulations.

Learn the rules for permits, wildlife encounters, camping, trash disposal, and safety. Parks usually require permits to stay at campsites, for some activities (e.g., fishing), and even to access certain hiking trails. Bring paper versions since cellphone service can be unreliable in remote areas.

5. Learn about park conditions.

Prepare for your park’s natural environment, weather, and any risks or hazards involved in your activities. Study the trails and stay current on the latest weather and road closures via your park’s website and social media channels. Understand the level of difficulty and technical skills required of certain hikes, i.e. Subway or Angels Landing at Zion.

6. Research how to get around.

You can drive through some parks easily; others require guests to park outside and shuttle in. Some parks are sprawling and isolated with few roadside facilities, so carry water, and even gas. If you plan to drive off road, make sure your vehicle is equipped for rugged terrain. And always bring maps; don’t count on GPS.

7. Bring proper gear.

Pack strategically to guarantee your safety and comfort based on the park, the weather, and your activities. Most important is comfortable footwear — that is broken in. If you plan to hike, bring essentials such as a daypack, hat, water bottles, snacks, sunscreen, flashlight, map, and first aid kit. If you plan to camp out, test your equipment in advance.

8. Stay at a national park lodge.

If you want to stay inside the park, don’t pass up a national park lodge. Many, like the lodges in Yellowstone and Grand Canyon, are beautiful, historic lodges, and most do not have in-room televisions. Star-lit skies, fire pits and smores and family games offer a non-digital alternative. Staying in the park is the best way to experience it. Once the day-trippers leave, you can enjoy sunsets, starry nights and sunrise with fewer people around.

9. Reserve early.

Book your park lodge (or campsite) early; many fill up quickly with some as far as 13 months in advance. This is especially true of peak summer season and holidays. If a lodge is full, check back regularly for cancellations as you may get lucky.

Advance reservations are also essential for popular activities with limited capacity, such as the mule rides at the Grand Canyon and the Red Bus tours at Glacier.

10. Consider a tour group.

Planning a national park trip can be very time-consuming. One way to ensure you’re seeing the best offerings is to opt for a guided tour. Depending on your ideal trip length and level of activity you seek, consider a bike tour with VBT, or a walking/hiking tour with Country Walkers, or a more traditional sight-seeing tour with Holiday Vacations. Packaged tours can save you time and money and they all offer the accommodations, meals, and activities for you with local guides and can arrange air and transfers as well.

A nationally known executive and thought leader in travel and tourism, Betsy O’Rourke is Chief Marketing Officer at Xanterra Travel Collection, part of the Anschutz Corporation.

Known for its “Legendary Hospitality with a Softer Footprint,” Xanterra Travel Collection manages lodges, restaurants, tours, and activities in the national parks including Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, Zion, Glacier, and Rocky Mountain National Parks, and Mount Rushmore National Memorial. It also owns and operates the Grand Canyon Railway & Hotel in Williams, Ariz., The Grand Hotel in Tusayan, Ariz., The Oasis at Death Valley in Death Valley, Calif., Windstar Cruises, Holiday Vacations, VBT Bicycling Vacations, and Country Walkers. Xanterra is also affiliated with two Forbes Five-Star resorts, The Broadmoor in Colorado Springs, Colo., and Sea Island on the coast of Georgia.

9 Ways To Preserve The Polar Regions For Future Generations

9 ways to preserve the polar regions for future generations

Aspiring polar explorers learn about sustainability and conservation on polar voyages with Quark Expeditions

By Doug O’Neill, Quark Expeditions

It was one of those travel moments that was both Instagram-perfect—yet simultaneously soul-stirring. I stood on the deck of Ocean Adventurer as it sailed into Krossfjord, a 30-km long fjord on the west coast of Spitsbergen in Norway’s Svalbard archipelago. Most of my fellow passengers were at breakfast so I had the deck to myself, with my camera at the ready, my eyes peeled on the horizon for my first glimpse of Lilliehöök Glacier, and my ears alert for the signature thunder of glacier calving.

In the midst of all that anticipation of nature’s drama unfolding before me, I was suddenly overcome with a sense of quiet, a stillness that brought with it a razor-sharp clarity of my surroundings. My mind began to run through an inventory of every stunning image I had experienced in the days leading up to this moment: the sculpted icebergs, the expansive glaciers, the snow-capped mountains, the long-abandoned historic sites, the polar bears prowling along the ice edge, the reindeers that cantered past me when I was on a shore landing, the walruses that gazed at me as I kayaked 30 metres away, of the whales spotted from the ship, and of cliff-tops covered in thousands of nesting Brunnich’s guillemots.

And in my private polar epiphany, I was overcome not only with an intense appreciation for this pristine polar wilderness before me but also with a desire to protect it for every future visitor who came after me.

This realization was by no means unique to me—it’s a moment shared by many who visit the Arctic or Antarctic. And this raised a fairly basic question: what can guests do to help preserve the pristine polar regions?

For this answer, I turned to my colleague, Lyndsey Lewis, Operations + Sustainability Manager at Quark Expeditions, a long-time sustainability advocate and one of the forces behind Polar Promise, Quark Expeditions’ holistic sustainability framework for protecting the polar regions.

9 ways to be kind to the planet on your next polar voyage

By Lyndsey Lewis, Operations + Sustainability Manager

Pack and use only reusable bottles (the only option when on a voyage with Quark Expeditions), coffee cups and reusable bags that you can take home with you.
Choose refillable toiletry containers or non-plastic packaging that are free of microbeads. Your Quark Expeditions cabin is equipped with refillable dispensers of body wash and shampoo.
Don’t introduce non-native species. Pack clean gear, including clothing, footwear, and bags. Decontaminate boots before leaving and upon returning to the ship by using the provided Virkon disinfectant bath.
Bring a reusable waterproof bag to protect your camera and/or phone from the elements. (Avoid single-use plastics at all times.)
Don’t dispose of waste during shore landings. Where waste is unavoidable, bring along a reusable bag and carry the waste back onto the ship to be disposed of properly.
Support local communities in the Arctic: Purchase goods from local artisans during community visits in the Arctic, but don’t purchase important goods like groceries and supplies as stock is limited and deliveries are rare.
Follow the environmental and conservation guidelines established by the International Association of Antarctica Tour Operators (IAATO) and the Association of Arctic Expedition Cruise Operators (AECO), who outline strategies, policies and behaviors to protect the polar regions.
Place a bid during our onboard auctions: proceeds from our onboard auctions support polar research and conservation groups.
Become a Polar Ambassador. Talk to one of our Expeditions Team about becoming a Polar Ambassador. This program teaches you how to make changes to reduce your carbon footprint every day. It’s also your way of educating your respective communities on the importance of protecting the majestic polar regions.

Quark Expeditions is the leader in polar travels. Quark Expeditions has been taking global travelers on immersive journeys to the Arctic and Antarctica for almost three decades.

5 Easy Ways To Be A More Responsible Traveler

5 Easy Ways To Be A More Responsible Traveler

By Intrepid Travel

Do Your Pre-trip Research

One of the first steps to traveling more responsibly is to conduct pre-trip research. It’s important to familiarize yourself with the country – including its religion, the local rules and values, and the cultural and social norms – to learn what is appropriate behavior while you’re visiting.

During your research, you should consider tour operators and travel companies that support the local economy by using local guides and supporting local businesses, hotels, restaurants and other services. Book with companies that have strict sustainability and animal welfare guidelines and who also give back to local communities, to ensure you are traveling in the most responsible manner and also using your holiday as a force for good.

Offset Your Trip

While tourism is responsible for about eight percent of global greenhouse gas emissions, it is also responsible for a lot of good in the world. Travel allows us to learn about other cultures and their everyday lives and challenges, brings income to communities that rely on tourists and makes us all more open-minded.

Instead of choosing to not travel, consider reducing your footprint and offsetting the impact of your travels. Some airlines offer you the opportunity to offset your flights, and you can also choose to travel with carbon neutral companies who will offset your trip on your behalf.

For instance, for less than the cost of a Netflix subscription, you can commit to a subscription service that helps the planet, through the company Offset Earth. Starting at $6.50 per month, you can part of the climate crisis solution. Offset Earth partners with climate projects all over the world to offset carbon emissions on behalf of subscribers and, as a bonus, plants trees. By committing to a subscription plan via the Offset Earth x Intrepid page, Intrepid Travel will match subscribers’ tree for tree, meaning for every tree planted through Offset Earth, Intrepid will plant one too, effectively doubling your offset contribution.

Behave Like a Traveler, Not a Tourist

While it might be okay for you to act or wear what you please at home, in many countries it is disrespectful to show too much skin or do certain things in public. Using a tour operator that employs local guides to assist you along the way is a great way to learn more, but it’s good to follow a few basic rules too. As a rule of thumb, travelers should abide by the following:

Be prepared to cover shoulders and knees and remove hats when in traditional areas and places of worship.
Always ask permission before taking photos of local people.
Don’t participate in direct interaction with a wild animal, such as riding elephants, or support any attractions in which animals are used for performances.

Support Local Businesses

By choosing to invest your money in local services you are putting money directly into the local economy and supporting local families. Eat local food, use public transport, hire a bike or walk where convenient – you’ll meet local people and get to know the place. Shop from traditional artisans and for locally made products, helping keep traditional crafts alive and favor local products over imported items. By default, you’re also lowering your carbon footprint since the businesses are likely to source their supplies locally. Not only is this style of travel responsible, it will also make your travel experience that much more authentic.

Leave Nothing Behind

Minimizing your waste and impact is one of the easiest ways to be a responsible traveler. Travel with some basics: a reusable cup, a water bottle, a metal or bamboo straw, reusable cutlery, and a fabric shopping bag. You can even buy water purifiers that filter out harmful bacteria, making bottled water less necessary. Plastics and other products aren’t biodegradable, so it’s important to be mindful of how much waste you’re producing and ensuring it’s being disposed of properly. Take care of the environment as you would your own home.

Intrepid Travel is the worlds largest B Corp certified adventure travel company. The company offers more than 1000+ trips in more than 120 countries and on every continent. A world leader is sustainable small group adventures, all of Intrepid’s trips are carbon-offset and designed to truly experience local culture – to meet local people, try local food, take local transport and stay in local accommodation. For more information: www.intrepidtravel.com

Everything You Need To Know About REAL ID

Updated on April 28, 2021: The United States Department of Homeland Security announced the extension of REAL ID full enforcement until May 3, 2023, because of the impact of COVID-19.

Updated on March 27, 2020: The new deadline for REAL ID enforcement is October 1, 2021.

Updated on February 20, 2020: The Department of Homeland Security has made the decision to allow electronic submissions of the documents that are required to obtain a REAL ID, a positive step ahead of the deadline.

In order to board a commercially regulated aircraft on October 1, 2020, travelers must possess a REAL ID compliant travel document. In order to obtain a compliant REAL ID or to ensure that your current travel documentation is REAL ID compliant, please visit your local Department of Motor Vehicles or utilize your state’s or territory’s online resources before the October 1, 2020 deadline.

Airline travel can be stressful for new and experienced travelers alike. Perhaps the most important part of any trip is ensuring that appropriate documentation and identification is in hand. For domestic travel, this generally means a valid U.S. driver’s license, or state identification card, while passports are required for international travel.

Recently, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA), an agency housed within the Department of Homeland Security, has been speaking to an issue relating to “REAL ID”. REAL ID represents the federal government’s attempt to create uniform minimum security standards for all U.S. driver’s licenses and identification cards in order to access Federal facilities, enter nuclear power plants, and board federally regulated commercial aircraft.

Creating these uniform standards is laudable and will ultimately make travelling throughout the U.S. safer. However, it is important that Americans are aware that their current form of identification, whether it is a driver’s license or state identification card, may not suffice to move through airport or other security settings, particularly with regard to traveling within the U.S. or elsewhere. The traveling public needs to be aware that updating travel documentation in the coming year will be necessary for those who are not already compliant. Otherwise, it is possible that come October 1, 2020 travelers could risk being turned away at the airport. To reaffirm, every American is currently required to possess a REAL ID compliant license or identification card by October 1, 2020 in order to, among other things, board a commercially regulated aircraft. Travelers without compliant identification could be turned away at the airport.

In the past, deadlines have been set on REAL ID compliance, and those deadlines have been kicked down the line. For the current deadline, recent reports indicate that this deadline of October 1, 2020 may hold. It is recommended that American travelers proactively check to see whether their identification is compliant to eliminate the possibility of added travel-related stress.

The good news is that anyone who holds a valid U.S. passport already has a REAL ID compliant form of identification. As of September 2019, 47 states, the District of Columbia, and three United States territories are compliant. Oregon, Oklahoma, and the Northern Mariana Islands are currently under an extension to update their licenses while New Jersey and American Samoa are under review. All states and territories are on track to be compliant before the October 1, 2020 deadline.

The bad news is that many of the states have only just begun issuing compliant licenses and state identification cards, meaning that many travelers may still hold a non-REAL ID compliant license. Therefore, it is imperative that all travelers visit their local Department of Motor Vehicles or utilize their state’s or territory’s online resources before the October 1, 2020 deadline to ensure that their travel driver’s license or identification card is compliant for domestic travel. Again, it is important to note that a valid passport is REAL ID compliant.

Unfortunately, not every state and territory have the same requirements for a REAL ID, meaning that the licenses or state identification cards will still not look completely uniform and the documents necessary to attain a REAL ID compliant license or identification card may vary. As mentioned previously, each traveler should visit their state’s or territory’s driver’s licensing agency website to find out exactly what documentation is required to obtain a REAL ID. At a minimum, travelers must provide documentation showing:

1) Full Legal Name;

2) Date of Birth;

3) Social Security Number;

4) Two Proofs of Address of Principal Residence; and

5) Lawful Status.

REAL ID compliant licenses and identification cards are identified by the presence of a star in the top right-hand corner of the card similar to the below:

USTOA urges individuals across America to ensure their identification is compliant and to take the appropriate steps to achieve compliance, if necessary. We strongly caution against reliance on the possibility of an extended deadline.

More general information on REAL ID can be found here.

More information on each state can be found here.

10 Passport And Visa Tips For Hassle-Free Travel

10 Passport and Visa Tips For Hassle-Free International Travel

By Fatemeh LeTellier, Chief Marketing Officer of Travel Document Systems and co-founder of Pinnacle Travel Documents

Make sure you have at least six months validity on your US passport! Most countries require six months validity because they don’t want any traveler to get stranded in their country and be burdened with their expenses. Further, most airlines require the six-month passport validity.
If you travel a great deal, consider obtaining a second US passport valid for four years. This will allow you to obtain visas on one passport while you travel on another. A second passport gives provides flexibility for the frequent traveler.
Make sure you understand which countries require a visa for US citizens to enter. This way you are not barred from boarding your flight and missing your vacation or business trip.
Make sure your name on your passport matches your name on your airline ticket/itinerary. With heightened security measures at US airports and abroad you could be denied boarding. If the name on your passport must be corrected, then you must renew your US passport as the US passport agency no longer amends names on US passports because of the new electronic chip passports.
There seems to be confusion regarding the Passport Card. The Passport Card can only be used at border crossings when driving between the US to/from Mexico and Canada. You cannot use the passport card for flying! The Passport Card can be issued when the Passport is renewed for an additional government fee of $50.00. It is best to do both at the same time needed to save money and time.
Many countries have gone to electronic visas which means the visas are e-mailed to the traveler. These visas are different than the traditional visas that are stamped in the actual passports. E-visas can have a shorter validity and at times only valid for tourist travel and not for business travel. It is imperative that the traveler check to see that they apply for the correct type of visa based on their trip. What we do at Pinnacle is assist the traveler in selecting the correct visa type for their specific travel needs. Some countries that issue electronic visas are India, Tanzania, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka and Oman.
Children under 16 years of age are issued passports that are only valid for five years. The reason being that children’s features change so the picture needs to be changed every five years. Once they become 16 the passport is issued for 10 years. Both parents must be present to get the child’s documents sealed and if one parent is not available then the absentee parent must provide the accompanying parent with a notarized consent letter to apply for their child’s passport. The Passport Agency is very strict because of child abductions cases so they want to make sure both parents have given permission for a child to be issued a passport.
It is imperative that the signature on passport and visa applications match the exact signature on the US passport! If the signature doesn’t match the application could be rejected which could delay the issuance of the US Passport or visa for international travel.
The Passport Office and countries that issue visas require the photographs submitted for processing to follow specific guidelines. The Chinese do not want the applicant to wear any glasses, jewelry or smile in the photo. The US passport office doesn’t want glasses or smiling in photos. Further, The Indians don’t want any glasses on the photo. There are specific photo requirements that must be fold for smooth passport and Visa processing!
Make sure you don’t apply too early for a Visa! If you apply too early, then your Visa will not be valid for entry which could cause you to be denied entry to that country. For example, The Kenya E-visa is valid for 90 days from date of issue. The Visa for Laos is valid 60 days from date of issue and the visa for Rwanda is valid 30 days from date of issue. We advise all our clients about visa validity requirements for business and tourist travel.

Pinnacle Travel Document Systems, one of the largest passport and visa service companies in the world, prides itself on providing exceptional customer service by taking the guess work out of travel documentation. Their experienced staff will streamline and simplify the process for any travel document, passport and Visas. Services include speedy, even 24 hour, passport renewal and second passport issuance, applications for minors, and passport cards, as well as precise visa application assistance to ensure the correct documentation is delivered accurately and in a timely fashion.

15 Must-Have Food Experiences In 15 Countries

15 must-have food experiences in 15 countries

By Bex Shapiro of Intrepid Travel

Do you love food so much that you would literally travel… for food?

You’re not alone.

There’s nothing more exciting (and tasty!) than eating your way through a destination. And there’s no easier way to do it than on a food tour that uncovers a world of authentic culinary experiences – complete with local guide, bucket-list sites and small group of like-minded adventurers.

In honour of the above – Intrepid Travel’s range of Real Food Adventure trips – we’ve collated a definitive list of must-have foodie experiences all around the world. They’re a little different, they’re culturally immersive, oh, and they’re delicious. Obviously.

So, what are you waiting for? Get drooling… and get browsing the delectable food trips.

15. Tour Phnom Penh’s markets with a local chef

14. Sit down to a home-cooked meal (with vodka!) with a family in St Petersburg

13. Try the real KFC (Korean Fried Chicken) paired with maekju (Korean beer)

12. Learn all things coffee on a local Peruvian farmstay

11. Visit a tahini factory and learn how to make knafeh (a traditional Arab dessert)

10. Enjoy Iranian cooking at a local family’s home

9. Enjoy Vietnamese home-cooking with a local family in the Mekong Delta

8. Make pasta from scratch like a local in Italy

7. Explore the local farms and cooking of Rajasthan

6. Learn the art of khachapuri, Georgia’s irresistible cheese bread

5. Harvest your own spring onions to make Taiwan’s iconic scallion pancake

4. Sample port in… you guessed it… Porto

3. Browse a Sri Lankan fish market for the freshest seafood around

2. Dive into spicy Szechuan hotpot like a local

1. Take a taco (and tequila!) crawl in Mexico City

Born in London and based in Toronto, Bex is happiest anywhere she can connect with interesting people over good food. She’s passionate about sustainable travel and powerful storytelling, and her favourite cities are New York and Shanghai. Follow her adventures on Instagram @BexShapiro.

Intrepid Travel gets you off the tourist track and onto the road less traveled. With average group sizes of 10 people and itineraries in over 120 countries, their local-led trips are all about experiencing the world with sustainability and authenticity front of mind. Follow Intrepid Travel on Instagram @IntrepidTravel.