A tour operator is a company that plans a specific group itinerary and arranges all of the elements that make up that itinerary, such as air fare, lodging, land transportation, meals or guides.
When you see an ad for a trip that includes several of these features, you can be certain that it was put together by a tour operator. It may be something as simple as a flight to Las Vegas for three nights at Harrah’s, from Funjet Vacations; or an Ireland package with airfare, deluxe hotels, motor coach transport and breakfast every day, from a company that only gives an 800 number.
You should know as much as possible about the tour operator before you sign up for the trip. Your travel agent should be familiar with those tour operators who provide trips to your destination.
Ask your travel agent: Who is the tour operator? Which airline will be used, and will the flights be non-stop? What are the specifics on meals, accommodations, sightseeing and so forth? Does the operator provide a tour escort, a local host or a guide? When the brochure says, “all-inclusive,” what does that really mean? What is the tour operator’s policy concerning reservations, deposits and cancellations? What is my responsibility as a consumer? What is the tour operator’s responsibility?
Those questions are ones that the United States Tour Operator Association recommends you ask. USTOA is a national organization of tour operators whose purpose, in part, is to educate the public about tours and vacation packages.
They have a number you can call for free vacation planning information.
United States Tour Operators Association: 800-468-7862
