Members of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA) offer global tour programs and packages that allow guests to forge deeper cultural connections to the people, traditions and customs of the places they are visiting.
“Today’s travelers want more than to just see a destination and check the major attractions off their bucket list, they want an intimate look at life beyond the main tourist sites. USTOA member tour operators provide limitless opportunities to do just that, along with the peace-of-mind that each program has been developed by knowledgeable and experienced professionals.” said USTOA’s President and CEO Terry Dale.
From Peru to Thailand, authentic travel opportunities to “live like a local” offered by USTOA tour operator members include:
South America: Travelers on “Peruvian Legends,” a 12-night Discovery Tour from Gate 1 Travel. Available over numerous dates throughout 2014, prices start at $2,699 per person based on double occupancy. Visit www.gate1travel.com for more information.
Europe: Regional arts, tastes and traditions are the focus of General Tours World Traveler’s seven day “Adventures Across Iceland” itinerary. Available over several departures dates March through November 2014, prices start at $3,399 per person based on double occupancy. Guests can save $50 to $200 per person when three or more friends and family travel together. For more information visit www.generaltours.com.
North America: On Trafalgar’s 15-Day “Best of the West” discovery tour, guests will visit a number of sites, including the Grand Canyon. Available January 17, February 14, October 4 and November 1, 2014, prices start at $3,375 per person. Save up to $338 per person if booked and paid in full by November 26, 2013. More information is available at www.trafalgar.com.
Australia:“Australia Uncovered” from SWAIN Tours offers a closer look at the wildlife, traditions and culture Down Under. This is a 13 night voyage, available through March 31, 2014. Prices start at $4,545 per person, based on double occupancy. Visit www.swaintours.com for additional information.
Asia: The day-to-day life of elephants and the mahouts, or trainers that take care of them, is the focus of Travel IndoChina’s “Lampang Elephant Conservation Mahout Program” in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Available through March 2015, prices for a full day program start at $286 per person. Two and three-day itineraries are also offered. For more information visit www.travelindochina.com.
Africa: Goway Travel invites travelers to fully immerse themselves in Moroccan life with an insider look at the country on the 11 day “Morocco Foodie Tour” itinerary, available November 1, 2013, March 20, 2014, May 1, 2014, June 26, 2014 and September 25, 2014. Prices from $3,013 per person, based on double occupancy. More details can be found at www.goway.com.
Visit www.ustoa.com