Operations:
– Tour operators simplify travel arrangements for customers.
– Internet has led to more self-packaging of holidays.
– Tour operators specialize in arranging tours for large groups.
– They have contracting power with airlines, hotels, and other suppliers.
– Tour operators create packages for destinations that might be hard to visit independently.
Trade associations:
– Major U.S. tour operator associations include NTA, USTOA, and ABA.
– In Europe, there are associations like ETOA.
– UK has ABTA and AITO for tour operators.
– The primary association for North American inbound operators is IITA.
See also:
– Related topics include tour guides and ecotourism.
– Sustainable tourism is an important aspect.
– Understanding the impacts of tourism is crucial.
References:
– National Tour Association provides benefits for travelers.
– Association Member Benefits can be obtained.
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A tour operator is a business that typically combines and organizes accommodations, meals, sightseeing and transportation components, in order to create a package tour. They advertise and produce brochures to promote their products, holidays and itineraries. Tour operators can sell directly to the public or sell through travel agents or a combination of both.
The most common example of a tour operator's product would be a flight on a charter airline, plus a transfer from the airport to a hotel and the services of a local representative, all for one price. Each tour operator may specialise in certain destinations, e.g. Italy, activities and experiences, e.g. skiing, or a combination thereof.