Press Releases

Matt Harding's Journey Begins

Published Mar 13, 2013 12:00AM


VIRAL VIDEO SENSATION MATT HARDING HITS THE ROAD FOR USTOA

NEW YORK – March 12, 2013 – Matt Harding, the viral internet dance and travel sensation of www.wherethehellismatt.com, has begun his global journey to create a dedicated video for the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA). The popularity of Harding’s videos have made “Where the Hell is Matt’s” channel the most watched travel channel on YouTube.

Harding first touched down in Chile and will visit nine other destinations over the next 60 days including: France, Tanzania, Ireland, Korea, Malaysia, Australia’s Northern Territory, and Alaska, along with some surprise locations.  Working closely with the destination and USTOA tour operator member sponsors, Harding will dance in unique and iconic sites with a variety of US travelers.

USTOA’s video is scheduled to launch in early summer on Harding’s website and YouTube channel as well as USTOA and its members’ websites and social media channels.  A dedicated travel agent component to the campaign will be announced in April.

Fans can follow Harding’s trail on USTOA’s Twitter feed - @USTOA.

Harding’s most recent video, launched in 2012, was described by the New York Times as “…a masterpiece” and features him dancing in the style and custom of the places he’s visiting, with children, tribesmen, dancers, students and others dancing with him. Prior videos were a series of short clips of Harding doing his trademark dance in front of icons around the world, joined by locals in many destinations.  

USTOA President and CEO Terry Dale announced the partnership in December 2012 at USTOA’s Annual Conference and Marketplace in Hawaii to overwhelming response by the membership and attendees.

 

About USTOA:  

Representing more than $10 billion in revenue, the member companies of U.S. Tour Operators Association provide tours, packages and custom arrangements that allow six 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 40 years, USTOA also provides education and assistance for consumers and travel agents.

 

Contact: 

Gina Sisco/Liz Carty 

Redpoint Marketing PR., Inc. 

212-229-0119 

Sisco@redpointpr.com 

Carty@redpointpr.com                                    

### 


SHARE THIS Download PDF

Latest USTOA Blog Posts


Leave Your Mark, Not Your Footprint: A Guide to Sustainable Travel in Spain 
Leave Your Mark, Not Your Footprint: A Guide to Sustainable Travel in Spain  By: Turespaña It might not come as a surprise that Spain is one of the leading tourist destinations in the world for its vibrant culture, rich history and stunning landscapes. But did you know that Spain is a global leader in sustainable… Read More
Making Travel Meaningful: Connecting with Indigenous Communities
Making Travel Meaningful: Connecting with Indigenous Communities By: Gina Bang, Chief Sales & Marketing Officer, Avanti Destinations In a world increasingly dominated by mass tourism, travelers are seeking more meaningful experiences. Immersing yourself in the traditions of indigenous communities offers a window into a world that is both ancient and profoundly different from our own.… Read More
6 local moments that connect you to the heart of Southeast Asia 
6 local moments that connect you to the heart of Southeast Asia  By: Jamie Gallerani for EF Go Ahead Tours If Southeast Asia guarantees anything, it’s to welcome you—and then to wow you, in that order. Here, wonder shows up as bowls of piping hot pad thai and plates of skewered satay, served by street… Read More
USTOA $1 Million
Travelers Assistance Program

A travel vacation should not only be an unforgettable experience, but offer solid peace of mind. That’s why USTOA created a consumer protection fund which protects consumers who book with our Active Members.

Learn More

Our website is set to allow the use of cookies — for more information click here. If you consent to cookies please click "Proceed" or simply continue browsing