Tour Operators

From Erik
According to the Unites States Tour Operators Association, a "tour operator" is a company that specializes in assembling and offering vacation "packages" with multiple elements including (but not limited to) air, ground transport, destination guides, hotels and dining options. Groups follow a set itinerary to help them get the most out of their vacation. A group tour is usually offered and booked through a travel agent.

Helpful Resources
A listing of Tour Operators by the USTOA
Fast Faqs about Tour Operators from the USTOA
2017 Worlds Best Tour Operators (published by Travel & Leisure Magazine)

A Few Top Tour Operators in the US
Collette
Globus
Tauck
Trafalgar Tours
Perillo Tours

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Erik Hastings, a.k.a. Erik the Travel Guy is an EMMY award-winning television personality who speaks directly to consumers who can't afford to "get their vacations wrong". He is the host and managing editor of the internationally syndicated television series "Beyond Your Backyard" for public broadcasting stations (PBS) and other networks/VOD platforms. Erik leads an incredibly talented team of industry pros and is the editorial driving force of his platform. While the travel industry directly supports millions of families worldwide, Erik believes travel makes the world a better place. Through exploration and discovery, he has learned that travel brings cultures together and he eagerly shares that spirit with his viewers. Read Erik's Full Bio.