By Royal Air Maroc

On June 7, 2026, Royal Air Maroc’s inaugural flight from Casablanca touched down at Los Angeles International Airport, greeted by a celebratory water cannon salute, traditional Moroccan mint tea poured from a silver teapot, and a gate ceremony that reflected the warmth and hospitality Morocco is known for around the world. 

For many years, Morocco has held a strong place on travelers’ wish lists, even if reaching it required a bit more effort than more established long-haul destinations. What has changed is not the destination’s appeal, but how travelers reach it. 

Airlines are playing a more deliberate role in shaping travel patterns, particularly as demand shifts toward destinations that offer depth, authenticity and a strong sense of place. In that context, Morocco is emerging differently: not just as a destination of interest, but as part of a broader, more connected network spanning Europe, Africa and Asia. 

That shift is especially visible in Los Angeles. With the June launch, Royal Air Maroc became oneworld’s 11th member airline to serve LAX, strengthening its ties to American Airlines’ and Alaska Airlines’ networks there alongside its own network through Casablanca. The nonstop service operates three times weekly on a Boeing 787 Dreamliner, featuring both business and economy class cabins, and connecting the two cities in roughly 11 hours westbound and 12 hours eastbound. 

Earlier this year, the United States Tour Operators Association held its out-of-country board meeting in Morocco, underscoring the growing interest in the destination among travel leaders. It also reinforced the importance of access, particularly as advisors look to design itineraries that move beyond a single country and connect multiple regions. 

Casablanca sits at the center of that access. From Royal Air Maroc’s hub at Mohammed V International Airport, travelers can move easily across Morocco, from Marrakech to Dakhla to Tangier. Casablanca also serves as a bridge to major European capitals including Paris, Madrid and Milan, to cities across Africa such as Dakar, Accra, Lagos, Abidjan and Cairo, and across the Middle East and Asia. That positioning lets Royal Air Maroc support itineraries built around Morocco alone or around a longer, multi-region trip. 

For advisors, this creates real flexibility. Morocco can be positioned as a standalone experience or as part of a journey linking Europe, Africa and Asia, and the structure of the network makes those combinations more practical as direct links from the United States continue to expand. 

Behind the new route is a longer-term growth plan. Royal Air Maroc has been investing in fleet development and network expansion, with plans to significantly scale its global presence and strengthen Casablanca’s role as a hub connecting multiple continents. 

The experience of arriving in Morocco remains unchanged in the ways that matter most. It is still defined by centuries-old medinas, vibrant cities like Marrakech, a growing culinary scene, and a tradition of hospitality that greets every visitor like a guest rather than a customer. What is changing is how easily those experiences fit into a traveler’s plans, whether Morocco is the destination itself or one stop on a longer international itinerary. 

For Royal Air Maroc, the new Los Angeles service reflects a larger trajectory: greater reach, closer alignment with global travel demand, and a more prominent role connecting continents. Morocco’s appeal remains as strong as ever. What is evolving is how travelers get there, and how far they can go once they land. 

ABOUT ROYAL AIR MAROC 

Morocco’s flag carrier Royal Air Maroc, present in Africa since its creation in 1957, is a leading airline on the continent. Royal Air Maroc has a young fleet of 69 planes and connects Morocco’s main airports to over 100 international airports around the world. In July 2023, Royal Air Maroc embarked on a journey toward a new dimension by signing a 2023–37 program contract with the government. The objective is to elevate Royal Air Maroc’s positioning from regional operator to global carrier, quadruple its current fleet to 200 aircraft, and ensure the transportation of 32 million passengers per year by 2037. By joining oneworld in 2020, Royal Air Maroc was the first African company to be part of this prestigious alliance. The partnership with oneworld allows Morocco to connect with a network of more than 520 million travelers and 900 destinations in 170 countries. For more information, visit royalairmaroc.com.  

The post From Los Angeles to Casablanca: How Connectivity Is Reshaping Morocco’s Reach  appeared first on USTOA Blog.

By Goway Travel

Who is your favourite teacher? Is it the teacher who inspires you to be curious? The teacher who challenges you? Or is it the teacher who excites you by bringing new lessons to your classroom every day? 

Education is a lifelong journey, and lifelong journeys are made for globetrotters. Travel is our favourite teacher because it teaches you everything your favourite teacher can, and more. You can also do it with your family. 

Family trips and multi-generational trips that children and adults can learn from together are one of the best ways to learn about the world. You stand in front of the same sites, ask different questions, and compare answers over dinner. With many of those lessons lining up with subjects already on a school schedule, here are seven subjects that family travel teaches better than schools. 

1. History 

History lessons in a classroom are often just a list of dates. History lessons on the road are much more meaningful. At Giza, your family can stand beside the Great Pyramid, a 4,500-year-old structure raised from roughly 2.3 million stone blocks and the only surviving Wonder of the Ancient World, while a licensed Egyptologist explains how it was built. In Cambodia, you can cycle through the Angkor Archaeological Park, which spreads across some 400 square kilometres of temples, moats, and reservoirs. In Peru, you can ride the train to Machu Picchu, a fifteenth-century Inca estate set at 2,430 metres in the Andes. Visiting these sites with local guides often means getting answers to your family’s questions from people with direct, personal ties to the history being told. 

2. Physical Education 

Physical education on the road is as much about the terrain as it is the activity. In New Zealand, you can walk the Tongariro Alpine Crossing, a roughly 20-kilometre route over volcanic ridgelines, or watch your teenager step off the Kawarau Bridge outside Queenstown, where commercial bungy jumping began in 1988 with a 43-metre drop. In Costa Rica, your family can paddle Class III and IV rapids on the Pacuare River and cross the Monteverde cloud forest on canopy ziplines. Meanwhile, in Zambia’s South Luangwa Valley, where guides pioneered the walking safari in the 1950s, you follow a scout in single file and learn to read tracks, wind direction, and distance, which turns a morning of exercise into a lesson in attention. 

3. Arts 

Travel teaches you that art is something people do, not just something kept inside museums. In  Australia’s Red Centre, Arrernte artists, custodians of one of the world’s oldest continuous art traditions, give your family a step-by-step lesson and explain how they sell the finished pieces through community-owned art centres that return revenue to the artists. But don’t worry, museums still earn their place in the travel curriculum. Botticelli’s The Birth of Venus resides in the Uffizi Gallery in Florence, a collection the last Medici heiress willed to Florence in 1737 on the condition that nothing ever leave the city. At Zeitz MOCAA in Cape Town, South Africa, 100 galleries are carved out of a derelict 1920s grain silo, helping keep contemporary African art on the continent where it was produced. 

4. Cooking 

Cooking lessons in Hoi An’s central market begin at seven in the morning, when a chef hands your family a shopping list of fresh, local ingredients. By noon you are folding spring rolls and learning why fish sauce, lime, sugar, and chilli balance nearly every Vietnamese dish. Meanwhile, take your family to Marrakech, where you buy saffron and preserved lemons in the souk, layer them with lamb and garlic in a tall clay urn, seal it with paper and string, and carry it to the farnatchi, who tends the furnace beneath the neighbourhood hammam, to prepare Tanjia. Learning about the world’s cultures through its gastronomy is undoubtedly one of the best ways to do so, and a travel curriculum evolves with every step of your journey. 

5. Math 

Have you ever found yourself in a math class wondering “When will I ever use this in the real world?” Well, you don’t have to worry about that with a travel curriculum. Consider creating a budget with your family in Japanese yen, where prices run to three and four digits, and every vending machine in Tokyo rewards every correct answer with delicious snacks. Or, think of the calculations surrounding your trip to Fiji, when your family flight crosses the International Date Line and loses a calendar day flying out and regains it flying home. In Jaipur, India, geometry lessons leap off the page: the Samrat Yantra at the Jantar Mantar observatory, a stone sundial 27 metres tall, has read local solar time to within about two seconds since the 1730s. 

6. Science 

The scientific method begins with asking a question and doing background research, then forming a hypothesis, testing it with experiments, collecting and analyzing data, and finally, drawing conclusions. With a travel curriculum, that looks like a week in the Galapagos. You ask why the tortoises on Santa Cruz carry rounded domed shells while the ones on Española have shells that curve upward at the front. Your guide, a licensed naturalist, explains what they know. Your family arrives at a hypothesis: the saddlebacks come from dry islands where food grows out of reach. You test it by studying each coastline before you land, predicting the shell from the vegetation, then checking the prediction against the tortoise. By the last island, your family holds data and lifelong memories from a week of observation that helped draw the same conclusions as Charles Darwin in the mid-19th century. 

7. Social Studies 

Social studies lessons begin at the edge of a Fijian village, where your family waits to be invited in. Custom asks you to present a bundle of yaqona, the kava root, to the chief in a ceremony called sevusevu. Your family watches permission, protocol, and reciprocity operate in real time rather than through a book. Lessons about community-tourism await in Kenya, where the community conservancies bordering the Maasai Mara convert your nightly fees into land leases for Maasai families, funding schools and keeping wildlife corridors open. Similarly, island families on Lake Titicaca in Peru collect income from their homestays that host your family. Experiences like these teach the importance of responsible travel and supporting local communities so they are supported for generations to come. 

Taking your family outside of the classroom and on the road is one of the most rewarding educational experiences. It teaches you to manage and organize your time, embrace adventure, step outside your comfort zone, and, best of all, understand why the world is the way it is. So, gather your family and never stop learning by choosing a life of travel, together. 

About Goway Travel 

Goway Travel is one of North America’s leading travel companies with over 55 years of experience offering customized travel experiences to over 115 countries on all seven continents. Goway is a family-owned company still owned and operated by Founder & President Bruce Hodge that employs over 700 staff members worldwide. Its global headquarters is in Toronto, and it also has offices in Vancouver, Los Angeles, Sydney, and Manila. Goway sells retail and wholesale travel packages, plans trips for Globetrotters, and helps travel professionals turn clients’ travel dreams into reality. It also offers group, air consolidation, and corporate travel services.  

Reach out and chat to a Goway destination specialist or visit goway.com

The post 7 Subjects Family Travel Teaches Better Than School appeared first on USTOA Blog.

By Visit Rwanda, the official destination marketing organization for Rwanda, working with tourism partners and communities to showcase the country’s landscapes, culture, conservation, and people to travelers around the world. Visit Rwanda is a proud sponsor of the 2026 USTOA Future Lights of the Tour Industry.

In Rwanda, some of the most meaningful travel experiences begin long after the wildlife encounter ends. 

They might start with a conversation over a shared meal, a walk through a village guided by someone who has called the area home for generations, or an afternoon learning how traditional crafts are made. These experiences offer travelers something increasingly valuable: the opportunity to see a destination through the eyes of the people who live there. 

Community-based tourism has become an important part of Rwanda’s tourism story, connecting conservation and travel with local livelihoods. The philosophy is relatively simple: when communities benefit from tourism, they have a greater stake in protecting the places and traditions that make their home unique. 

Nowhere is this connection more visible than around Rwanda’s protected areas. Revenue generated through tourism has supported community development initiatives, including schools, health centers, water infrastructure, and other local projects. Around Volcanoes National Park, for example, community-focused initiatives have helped create opportunities for residents living alongside one of the world’s most celebrated mountain gorilla habitats. 

But community tourism in Rwanda extends well beyond conservation. 

Across the country, travelers can encounter experiences rooted in everyday life and local knowledge. In rural communities, visitors may learn traditional agricultural practices, explore local food traditions or discover the craftsmanship behind Rwandan basketry and textiles. Rather than simply observing, travelers are invited to participate — creating an exchange that feels personal and often continues well beyond the experience itself. 

There is also an important human element to these encounters. A community guide is not simply leading a traveler from one point to another; they are sharing their own connection to the landscape. A craftsperson is not demonstrating a cultural tradition for a visitor in isolation; they are helping sustain a skill that has been passed between generations. A meal becomes more than something on a plate when its ingredients, preparation and stories are connected to the community that produced them. 

This model reflects a broader shift in how travelers are thinking about responsible tourism. Increasingly, the question is not only How can I experience this place? but also What does my presence contribute to it? 

Rwanda offers one answer: travel can be a two-way exchange. 

The country’s community-based tourism initiatives demonstrate that meaningful travel does not have to be separated from conservation or local economic opportunity. In fact, the three can reinforce one another. When visitors slow down, listen and engage with local communities, they often leave with a deeper understanding of Rwanda — one that goes beyond its extraordinary landscapes and wildlife. 

Perhaps that is the most memorable souvenir of all: not simply having visited Rwanda, but having connected with the people who call it home. 

About Visit Rwanda

Visit Rwanda is the official destination marketing organization for Rwanda. Its work highlights the country’s diverse tourism experiences, from wildlife and conservation to culture, outdoor adventure, wellness and gastronomy, while supporting the continued development of a responsible and sustainable tourism industry. Through collaboration with local communities, tourism businesses and international partners, Visit Rwanda seeks to share the many stories that make Rwanda a distinctive destination. 

The post Beyond the Safari: How Community-Based Tourism Is Shaping Rwanda’s Travel Story  appeared first on USTOA Blog.

Written by Boris Sahakyan, the founder of Arara Tour 

The Caucasus and Central Asia: What are these regions about? 

The Caucasus and Central Asia are two unique regions that have recently become increasingly attractive to tourists. They have much in common due to centuries of intertwined history, including the Silk Road and Soviet past, geographical proximity, and a shared cultural heritage. Yet, each country has its own unique traditions and highlights. Lying between Eastern Europe and Western Asia the Caucasus includes three neighboring countries: Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan. Central Asia in its turn is located at the crossroads of Eurasia and includes Five Stans: Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Turkmenistan.  

So, what makes this land so attractive? Tourists are drawn by the rich cultural heritage, mountain nature, authentic national cuisine, deep-rooted traditions of hospitality, and the historical connection to the Great Silk Road. For thousands of years, the vast lands of the Caucasus and Central Asia have served as important crossroads of trade connecting East and West. That’s why history buffs often choose combined tours to both regions to fully plunge into the atmosphere of Silk Road and follow in the footsteps of ancient traders.  

Despite similarities, each country has its own unique characteristics and highlights. Being one of the first countries to adopt Christianity as state religion, Armenia is proud of its ancient churches set high in the mountains. Georgia is known as a cradle of winemaking with wine history stretching back over 8,000 years meanwhile Azerbaijan boasts traditions of carpet weaving and sericulture. In Uzbekistan travelers can plunge into the oriental fairy tale in Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva. Kyrgyzstan will surprise with its nomadic traditions, yurt life and the beauty of high-altitude landscapes. Kazakhstan in its turn is the land of endless steppes and nomads. Landlocked Tajikistan known as the Roof of the World stuns with its snow-peaked mountains and Turkmenistan is less discovered land with white marble capital and world renown Gates of Hell.  

Responsible Travel as a Solution to New Challenges 

Growing interest in these regions creates new challenges. The increased number of tourists contributes to economic development, creation of new jobs, and supports growth of local businesses. However, an insufficiently thought-out approach can place pressure on natural areas and historical monuments. So, what is the solution?  

The answer lies in responsible travel. It is not only about environmental protection – this approach encourages using local services, supporting family-owned businesses, respecting cultural norms, caring for nature, and creating opportunities for local residents to directly benefit from tourism development.  

Responsible travel is not yet very developed in the Caucasus and Five Stans, but over the past 6-7 years, there has been significant progress in the Caucasus countries. One of the main challenges is the lack of awareness among travelers and tour agencies, limited infrastructure and the regions’ scale and diversity. Eight countries represent different approaches to tourism development. As a result, there can be no single model of responsible tourism that applies equally to all of them. 

Thus, large tourism companies have an important role to play. Fortunately, more and more local tour operators are beginning to recognize the importance of this approach, and the regions are entering a new era of responsible tourism development. 

In Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan responsible tourism means reaching beyond the luxury city centers and supporting communities. A small family-run guesthouse instead of a large international chain, dinner at a local family instead of a standard restaurant, purchasing a product directly from an artisan, and participating in master classes on preparing local dishes or on carpet-weaving – these are steps that are slowly becoming part of journeys through Armenia, Georgia, and Azerbaijan. 

In Central Asia, responsible tourism must address other challenges. The ecosystems of the steppes, deserts and high plateaus require a respectful approach. Respect for nomadic traditions is equally essential. A multi-country expedition across all Five Stans requires careful logistical planning to minimize environmental impact. 

Ultimately, responsible travel in the Caucasus and Central Asia is a conscious approach to travel, ensuring the impact we leave behind won’t harm future generations and helping preserve the magic of the Silk Road for centuries. 

About Arara Tour 

Arara Tour is a tour operator and destination management company in the Caucasus and Five Stans specializing in creating immersive, carefully thought-out tours to Armenia, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan. The company has its own local agencies in all the countries of the Caucasus and Central Asia. This gives a significant advantage in organizing cross-country tours as it eliminates double profiting, provides a high level of quality, and gives an opportunity to quickly resolve any issues directly on-site. Having the own agencies also allows to effectively manage and follow the tour process at every stage. Arara Tour positions itself as а responsible tour operator with the tours designed to promote and support local communities, preserve cultural heritage, and minimize environmental impact. The company works with local hotels and guesthouses, family-run restaurants, producers of authentic local products like dried-fruits or cheese, small boutique wine yards and others. Arara is also a proud member of USTOA. For more information, visit www.araratour.com  or contact by email info@araratour.com. 

The post The New Era of Responsible Travel in the Caucasus and Central Asia  appeared first on USTOA Blog.

By Tess St. John, Tauck

There’s a certain satisfaction in visiting somewhere new – especially places that feel relatively untouched. A national park at sunrise. An underwater coral garden, quietly teeming with life. A stretch of beach where the horizon feels endless, waves crashing on the shore with a soft hush. These are the kinds of places that make you want to bring something home, something physical to hold onto the memory.  
 
For me, it’s always a rock or a shell, something glinting in the sand or smooth enough to skip across a glasslike lake.  
 
But once I bring it home, it never holds the same spark it did when I first found it. 

Maybe it’s the lighting. Maybe it’s the absence of wind or water or context. Or maybe it’s something simpler: once removed from its origin, it feels out of place, as if I pulled it from its own home. What felt like a small, harmless keepsake begins to feel like something taken.  
 
I can’t help but be reminded of Theodore Roosevelt standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon, urging future generations to “leave it as it is,” every time that realization hits. His words weren’t just about land – they were about restraint, about understanding that some things hold their meaning precisely because they remain where they are.  
 
And preservation, I’ve come to realize, extends far beyond the landscapes we’ve fought to protect.  

It lives in the people we meet along the way – the lacemakers in Venice shaping traditions passed down through generations; the local guides who carry histories not found in textbooks, in Petra’s rose-colored corridors where ancient stone wears quietly under modern footsteps; the communities whose identities are woven into the places we visit, whether one state over or an ocean away. A destination is never just its land; it is everything that fills it, sustains it, and gives it a voice. 

A place is not just what we see during peak seasons. There are kids walking to school, mothers walking miles for water on the same roads we take off-road jeep rides on – daily motions that exist long before we arrive and long after we leave.  

Often, we step into the frame of a destination without ever seeing the full picture. What we experience is only a fraction, a moment shaped for us to pass through. 

Our footprints fall on paths long established by others, and it’s up to us to move through them without shifting their course. These rhythms hold stories, traditions, and ways of life that don’t pause for our arrival. 

But it’s not all cautionary. We’re wired to explore, to connect, to step into lives beyond our own. And when done thoughtfully, travel has the power to build up the very communities we visit. 

It can look like choosing to shop locally supporting a seventh-generation winemaker in whose craft is as much inheritance as it is livelihood. It can mean contributing to the restoration of centuries-old landmarks and cultural sites, or sitting with a local family over a shared meal, where stories are passed across the table and culture is preserved not in monuments, but in memory. 

In these small, intentional choices, tourism becomes less about taking and more about giving back. 

At the end of the day, I don’t need the rock to remember the place. What stays with me are the stories – the subtle shifts in perspective that make the world feel both wider and more connected. It’s learning how to belong without taking from what was never ours to begin with ­– and leaving it whole for the next traveler. 

About the Author

Tess St. John is a writer for Tauck, where she explores the intersection of travel, culture, and human connection. Her work blends thoughtful storytelling with a deep appreciation for the places and people that shape each journey, inviting readers to experience the world with curiosity, care, and intention.

About Tauck

For more than 100 years, Tauck continues to deliver authentic travel experiences through exclusive access with some of the best guides in the world. With all-inclusive trips spanning 70+ countries across seven continents including river and small ship cruising, land journeys, safaris and family adventures, they continually raise the bar to find new ways to connect travelers more deeply with the places they explore. 

The post Preserving the Past for the Next Traveler: How Tourism Helps Protect Cultural Heritage  appeared first on USTOA Blog.

By Turespaña

Spain’s islands are home to some of the country’s most distinctive culinary traditions. From the Mediterranean flavors of the Balearic Islands to the volcanic cuisine of the Canary Islands, gastronomy here is deeply connected to the landscape, the sea and centuries of island life. 

The Balearic Islands: Mediterranean Tradition on a Plate 

The Balearic Islands are known for iconic specialties such as Maó cheese, sobrasada and ensaimadas — products that perfectly capture the essence of Mediterranean island cuisine. 

Maó Cheese: Menorca’s Signature Taste 

Maó cheese is one of Menorca’s most famous products. Made from cow’s milk, its flavor ranges from soft and creamy to rich and intense depending on the curing process. 

Influenced by sea breezes and local pastures, it has become one of the defining symbols of Menorcan gastronomy. 

Sobrasada and Ensaimadas: Mallorca’s Classics 

Sobrasada, Mallorca’s traditional paprika-cured sausage, is celebrated for its rich flavor and smooth texture. Equally iconic is the ensaimada, the island’s light spiral pastry dusted with powdered sugar. 

One of Mallorca’s most traditional combinations is ensaimada filled with sobrasada — a perfect balance of sweet and savory that reflects the originality of Balearic cuisine. 

The Canary Islands: Bold, Vibrant and Authentic 

Canarian cuisine is simple, colorful and full of flavor, shaped by volcanic landscapes, Atlantic waters and local traditions. 

From papas arrugadas with spicy mojo picón to fresh fish, slow-cooked stews and the ever-present gofio, every dish reflects the culture and history of the islands. Tropical fruits, volcanic wines and desserts rich in almonds and honey complete a cuisine that feels both rustic and unforgettable. 

The Canary Islands blend Spanish heritage with unique Atlantic influences, creating flavors that are vibrant, comforting and deeply authentic. 

La Geria: Wine Born from Volcanoes 

Among the Canary Islands, Lanzarote stands out for one of Spain’s most extraordinary wine regions. In the vineyards of La Geria, vines grow in deep hollows carved into black volcanic ash and protected by curved stone walls from Atlantic winds. 

This ingenious method allows the plants to capture moisture in one of Europe’s driest climates, producing wines with a distinctive volcanic character. The contrast of green vines against endless lava fields creates one of the world’s most spectacular wine landscapes. 

From Maó cheese and ensaimadas to volcanic wines and Canarian specialties, the Balearic and Canary Islands offer a gastronomy shaped by nature, tradition and island life — authentic flavors that capture the true spirit of Spain’s islands. 

About Turespaña

Turespaña is the official Spanish Tourism Board, dedicated to promoting Spain as a sustainable travel destination. From vibrant cities and world-class gastronomy to breathtaking landscapes, rich culture and unforgettable experiences, Turespaña inspires travelers from around the world to discover everything Spain has to offer, all year round.

The post The Islands of Flavor: Gastronomy Across the Balearic and Canary Islands  appeared first on USTOA Blog.

By: Kathleen A. De Riso, Vice President, Travel Services, Crum & Forster 

There’s something uniquely freeing about traveling solo. No coordinating schedules. No compromises on what to see or where to go. Just you, your itinerary, and the open road ahead. 

It’s no surprise solo travel continues to rise. More travelers are choosing independence, seeking flexibility, self-guided experiences, and the ability to move at their own pace. But while solo travel offers unmatched freedom, it also requires a different level of preparation. Because when you’re traveling alone, you’re not just the explorer, you’re also the planner, the problem-solver, and the backup plan. 

The good news? A little preparation goes a long way in keeping your trip smooth, safe, and enjoyable, even when the unexpected happens. This simple guide for solo travelers can help you stay prepared every step of the way. 

Start with a Simple Communication Plan

Before you leave, think about how you’ll stay connected. Share a high-level version of your itinerary with a trusted friend or family member. This doesn’t need to be overly detailed, but it should include key locations, accommodations, and transportation arrangements. 

Set expectations for check-ins, whether it’s a quick daily text or a message every few days. It’s a simple step that creates peace of mind on both sides. 

Pro tip: If you’re traveling internationally, confirm your phone plan or consider a local SIM or eSIM so you’re not scrambling for Wi-Fi when you need it most. 

Keep Your Documents Accessible—But Protected

When you’re on your own, access to your documents is critical. Make digital copies of your passport, identification, travel arrangements, and travel insurance details. Store them securely in the cloud or a password-protected app and keep a separate physical copy on your person. If anything is lost or stolen, having backups can save valuable time and reduce stress in an already frustrating situation. 

Pro tip: Travel insurance may also help cover lost baggage and personal items. Knowing what’s included in your coverage and how to access that information quickly can make it easier to recover when something goes missing. 

Plan Your First 24 Hours

The beginning of a solo trip often sets the tone for everything that follows. Before you arrive, map out how you’ll get from the airport to your accommodation. Research trusted transportation options, whether that’s a pre-arranged transfer, a reputable ride service, or public transit. Knowing exactly where you’re going and how to get there can help you feel more confident as you navigate a new place, especially after a long travel day. 

Build a Short List of Local Resources

You don’t need to plan every moment, but it’s helpful to know where to turn if something goes off track. Take a few minutes to identify: 

• Nearby hospitals or urgent care centers  

• Local emergency numbers  

• The nearest embassy or consulate (for international travel)  

• A few trusted restaurants or cafés in your area  

• Your travel insurance details, including policy number, emergency assistance contacts, and claims information 

Having this information on hand means you’re not starting from scratch if you need support. 

Expect the Unexpected (and Prepare for It)

Delays happen. Plans change. Weather shifts. That’s true for any trip, but when you’re traveling solo, those disruptions can feel more personal. Building in flexibility, whether it’s extra time between connections or a backup plan for key activities, can make a big difference. 

It’s also worth thinking about how you’ll handle interruptions before they happen. From trip delays to medical situations, having the right protections in place can help you navigate challenges without derailing your entire experience. 

A Note for Travel Advisors and Tour Operators

As solo travel grows, so does the opportunity to better support these travelers behind the scenes. Clear communication protocols, accessible emergency support, and thoughtfully designed travel protection options can all help solo travelers feel confident booking and rebooking when plans shift. While solo travelers may travel independently, they’re not looking to do so without support. 

Travel Solo, Travel Smart

Solo travel is about confidence. It’s about stepping into the unknown and trusting yourself to navigate it. With the right plan in place, you can focus less on the “what ifs” and more on the moments that make solo travel so rewarding in the first place. Because traveling alone doesn’t mean being unprepared—it means being ready for anything. 

About the Author 

Kathleen A. De Riso is the Vice President of Travel Services at C&F, where she enjoys creating custom travel insurance offerings to meet the unique needs of her clients. With a career spanning several decades in Travel Insurance, Kathleen has held prominent leadership roles in Underwriting, Operations, Account Management, and Claims. Her experience has provided her with a holistic understanding of Travel Insurance—and what helps it function seamlessly for tour operators, Third-Party Administrators, and travelers alike. 

About Crum & Forster 

Crum & Forster, rated “A+” Superior by AM Best (2025), is a national commercial property and casualty group of insurance companies. Since 2000, Crum & Forster’s Accident & Health Division has offered a diverse portfolio of specialty insurance and reinsurance products nationwide. We place a strong focus on product development and creative distribution methods, along with excellent client service and support. In addition, our ability to provide international Accident & Health solutions through our innovative captive structure, as well as through various partnerships with affiliated entities, demonstrates our dedication to providing alternative strategies in an ever-changing insurance market. Follow us on LinkedIn, X, and Instagram. The C&F logo, C&F, and Crum & Forster are registered trademarks of United States Fire Insurance Company. 

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By Molly Lacob, USTOA Global Social Impact Manager

Each year after returning from the annual Sustainability is Responsibility (SIR) summit, there is a sense of momentum amongst the USTOA community that reminds us why we fell in love with Travel and Tourism in the first place – the willingness to collaborate for the betterment of people and places. Our time in Anchorage, Alaska for the 2026 SIR Summit was a wonderful example of partnership in practice. Throughout the summit, Indigenous leaders, business owners, policy advocates, and sustainability champions came together to explore vital questions: How do we grow without exploiting? How do people, places, and policy work together? We heard from those working to protect wildlife habitat, manage visitor pressure, and ensure that tourism strengthens—not overwhelm—the communities that call Alaska home. What stood out most was the shared belief that successful tourism isn’t measured solely by visitor numbers, but by the long-term benefits it creates for residents, businesses, and the environment.  

The rapidly evolving world of responsible tourism inspires us to create the summits around the current focuses of our members, meaning each summit will look different. Gina Bang, from Avanti Destinations explains how this evolution has assisted their sustainability strategy. “SIR transformed how I think about my company’s role in this industry. We started asking “What does sustainability mean to us?” After five summits, we’re asking “How do we embed these principles into everything we do?” That’s the shift SIR creates—from awareness to action, from individual effort to collective movement.” 

The introduction of SIR Working Groups brought together a new range of expertise from members, local environmental advocates in Alaska, and our facilitator, Graham Miller. The working groups, divided into focus areas surrounding overtourism, climate risk, aviation, and carbon calculators, inspired in-depth discussions regarding the future of our industry, while simultaneously listening to ongoing case studies from locals working towards a better future for Travel and Tourism in Alaska. 

Julia Cope from USTOA’s newest Active Member Backroads, arrived at the summit as a member of the Climate Risk Working Group, yet left eager to follow along the progress of the remining three working groups, as they all offer guidance for her upcoming goals. “As a first time SIR summit attendee, I can confidently say that the 2026 SIR summit was a pinnacle professional experience in my career to date. Working in small groups with brilliant, experienced minds at the niche intersection of travel and sustainability and reaching actionable outcomes towards solutions for some of the greatest community and environmental challenges we face as an industry, all while surrounded by the beauty of Alaska’s Chugach mountains, was surreal.” 

While there is a consensus that progress has been made over the last five years, the SIR Community’s momentum only continues to grow, inspiring many to return year after year to evolve alongside their fellow USTOA members. Our time in Anchorage taught us how intentionally they are thinking about the future of tourism while balancing visitor growth with community wellbeing, cultural preservation, and environmental stewardship – all while navigating a complex policy environment. 

Kelly P. Sahner from The Sahner Group shared “Attending my 5th USTOA Sustainability Is Responsibility (SIR) event was truly special. A heartfelt thank you to Alaska for hosting us and to Graham Miller for once again delivering such thought-provoking insights and education. There is something genuinely energizing about being in a room full of people who share a deep commitment to sustainability and the future of travel not because they have to be there, but because they believe in it. That passion is palpable, and it’s contagious. Sustainability is not just important to our industry, it is essential to its future. What USTOA has built with SIR is remarkable: a platform that not only champions this cause but actively supports travel organizations at every stage of their sustainability journey. The leadership and dedication shown by USTOA continue to raise the bar for what our industry can and should aspire to.  Here’s to continuing the journey — together.” 

The SIR community displays the USTOA community’s strength so beautifully, as there is a deep understanding that the stronger our bonds as an association, the further we will go individually and as an industry. We leave each summit with stronger member to member connections, a deeper appreciation for our destination host, a long list of practices to implement within our organizations, and a renewed sense of responsibility for driving change. It’s almost as if the summit is our annual opportunity to take a step back from the responsible tourism “puzzle”, listen to our fellow member’s challenges, and rearrange the pieces to discover something that positively impacts travelers, tour operators, the value chain, and most importantly, the people who call the beautiful destinations home. None of this would be possible without the honesty, transparency, and storytelling of those throughout our industry. Anchorage reminded us that the future of tourism depends on collaboration, transparency, and a willingness to learn from one another. As destinations around the world grapple with growth, climate challenges, and changing traveler expectations, the conversations happening in Alaska offer valuable lessons for us all. 

For more information on the SIR Summit, and other opportunities to join our community, please visit the SIR Resources Hub. 

The post Lessons from Anchorage: 5 Years of SIR and a Growing Commitment to Responsible Tourism  appeared first on USTOA Blog.

By Trafalgar

Planning a vacation for grandparents, parents, and teenagers often feels like managing three different trips at once. The mental load of coordinating three generations across restaurants, activities, budgets and bedtimes is exhausting before the trip even begins. And after all that effort, someone always ends up unhappy.   

River cruising is changing that equation. 

What makes it such a natural fit for multi-generational families isn’t just convenience; it’s the experience itself. The ship becomes a floating home base: families unpack once and wake up in a new city, guided by dedicated staff who have already handled every logistical detail. There are no rental cars to coordinate, no arguments about which restaurant to try, and no scramble to figure out what’s worth seeing. The itinerary is curated with expertise built in, so the only thing families need to decide is how to make the most of each day. 

Connecting cabins keep everyone close, with grandparents next door and teens across the hall, without sacrificing the privacy that makes togetherness sustainable. At the end of a long day exploring fairytale European cities, everyone can retreat to their own space and reconvene ready for more. 

Traveling by river also means guests are rarely far from land, which means more time on the ground and less time in transit. Mornings typically begin with an immersive city tour led by local experts who offer the kind of context no guidebook can provide. By the afternoon, the itinerary opens up, and this is where river cruising earns its place as the ideal multi-generational format.  

Teens can bike along the Rhine or hike trails through the Bavarian countryside. Parents can spend the afternoon wine tasting at a historic castle in Koblenz or on a deep-dive food tour through Budapest’s market halls. Grandparents can explore open-air museums in the Black Forest or lose themselves in an immersive tribute to Mozart in Vienna. Everyone follows their own path, then gathers for a dinner back onboard as the ship glides toward the next destination, trading stories across the table.  

The best part often isn’t the sightseeing itself. It’s what happens afterward, at the end of the day. Because everyone has spent the day doing something they enjoyed, dinner conversations tend to be richer. Instead of negotiating the next activity, families are swapping stories about where they went, what surprised them and what they’d do again.  

For travelers considering a river cruise, the operator matters. Trafalgar’s river cruise program builds on decades of guided European travel experience.  Signature MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences weave responsible, community-focused moments into the itinerary, while Be My Guest dining brings travelers into local homes and family businesses for meals that go well beyond the restaurant experience. 

Multi-generational travel will never be completely effortless. But river cruising solves many of the challenges that tend to derail family vacations, giving each generation room to travel on its own terms while still sharing the experience together. For many families, that’s what makes the format work so well. 

About Trafalgar

Trafalgar, part of The Travel Corporation family of brands, is one of the world’s most-loved and trusted travel companies. Known for guided vacations across six continents and more than 70 countries, Trafalgar creates memorable journeys filled with authentic local experiences and expert guidance. Now, with river cruising, travelers can explore Europe’s iconic rivers, experiencing the same commitment to genuine connections, hidden gems, and responsible travel practices that Trafalgar tour guests have enjoyed since 1947. Whether by land or river, Trafalgar makes it easy for travelers to discover the heart of every destination, backed by nearly 80 years of trusted experience and millions of happy guests.  For more information, visit www.trafalgar.com.

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By Catherine Reilly, Managing Director of Brendan Vacations 

Ireland and Scotland aren’t places you simply check off a list. They’re places you uncover through the people you meet, the stories you hear, and the moments spent in the right rooms, along the right roads, with the right locals. At Brendan Vacations, we design trips around that idea and are known as the Celtic travel experts. Our team is based in Dublin, and that shapes how we plan, who we trust, and what we include. These itineraries are crafted by people who live here, not just “sellers of” here. That lived perspective turns a trip into something more layered, more personal, and harder to replicate.

From whisky tours at locally owned distilleries in the Scottish Highlands to foraging for seaweed on the coast of County Kerry and overnight stays at historic hotels like the 13th-century Ashford Castle, each experience tells a story of longstanding tradition and history. Each is chosen because it offers direct access to someone who lives the culture, not just interprets it. 
 
For more than 40 years, I have worked with my team to seek out the best local storytellers: business owners, restaurateurs, hoteliers and artisans who are passionate about sharing what they know and love. Together, we’ve built a collection of activities, stays and dining experiences that leave travelers with a deeper understanding of Ireland and Scotland and of the people who call these places home. People like Mark Rogers, a seanchaí or traditional Irish storyteller, who guides guests along the dramatic Antrim Coast, bringing its history and landscapes to life in a way no one else can. Or Ianin Burnett, a Highland chocolatier and award-winning truffle specialist, who invites visitors for a private tasting experience. These are the types of encounters we love to share with our guests.

Travel works best when it leaves something beyond memories. That’s the thinking behind our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences, which focus on conservation, cultural preservation, and community impact in the places we visit. We believe travel should uplift the communities it visits, not just pass by them. With Brendan Vacations, travelers can visit the Dundregan Rewilding Center to learn about forest conservation in Scotland or explore the UNESCO-designated Burren farm alongside its fifth-generation owner. Each experience connects travelers to the people quietly working to preserve Ireland and Scotland’s landscapes and traditions.

Sharing my knowledge of these two countries is in my DNA, which is why I created Catherine’s Collection: a personal selection of accommodations and dining experiences that reflect the true magic of my homeland. Every property, whether a castle, a manor or bed & breakfast, is chosen because it has a story to tell. From Loch Lein, a family-owned bed & breakfast nestled along the water in Killarney, to the enchanting Dromoland Castle, home to Irish High Kings for over a thousand years, guests feel fully immersed in the heart of Ireland and Scotland from the time they wake to when they fall asleep. 

But what makes a country an experience you carry with you for years is the people you meet along the way. Our Local Specialists, private drivers and Trip Managers bring their own stories and passion to every journey, welcoming travelers to their homeland with personal recommendations. Human connection is at the heart of everything we do at Brendan Vacations, and it starts with the locals who are proud to be each guest’s personal connection to their Celtic homelands. 

About the Author

Catherine Reilly is Managing Director of Brendan Vacations Ireland, part of the global travel organisation, The Travel Corporation. Founded in Los Angeles in 1969, Brendan Vacations is a specialist in travel to Ireland and Scotland, offering expertly designed Small Group Tours, Private Driver experiences, Self-Drive and Rail journeys, all delivered with a highly personalised approach. 

Ireland has been at the heart of Brendan Vacations for over four decades, with a dedicated team based on Merrion Square in Dublin. Catherine has led the Irish operation since 1984, playing a pivotal role in shaping the company’s reputation for excellence and authenticity. 

A passionate advocate for Ireland as a world-class and sustainable tourism destination, Catherine has made a significant contribution to the industry at both national and international levels. She served on the Board of Fáilte Ireland, the National Tourism Development Authority, from 2003 to 2013. She is also a former Chair of the Irish Tourist Industry Confederation (ITIC) and Past President of the Incoming Tour Operators Association. 

Catherine has travelled extensively around the world and is always planning her next adventure. In her downtime, she enjoys walking and has a particular fondness for trees. 

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