USTOA Members Promote Diverse Tour Options

Travelers looking for an enriching experience and can travel or make plans on short notice will benefit from members of the

U.S. Tour Operators Association

(USTOA) who are offering a selection of tours and custom itineraries to the Galapagos,

Middle East

,

China

, and even Bar and Bat Mitzvah arrangements to

Israel

.

Samples offered by USTOA members range from 10 days to three weeks and offer opportunities for in-depth learning, for travel by December 31.

The Galapagos with Naturalists: 10 days/Nine nights from $4,980

Explore the Galapagos aboard National Geographic Endeavour or National Geographic Islander, with twice-daily guided excursions. Talks and briefings by top naturalist guides and detailed information about conservation issues add to the educational depth. The 10 day/nine- night expedition ranges from $4,980 to $8,040 per person, and is available through December, 2010. For more information contact Lindblad Expeditions at 800-EXPEDITION or visit www.expeditions.com.

Middle East History: 21 days/19 nights, from $7,899

In addition to a tour director, local guides provide insight into the history and heritage of Egypt, Israel, and Jordan on Goway Travel’s 21 day/19 night “Treasures of the Middle East” tour. The tour, which is valid through December 31, 2010, is priced from $7,899 including international air fare. For more details visit www.goway.com, or phone 800-245-0920. Book by December 31 for travel by April 2011

Antiquity in China: 17 days/16 nights from $5,499

Archeology and art history buffs on the 17 day/16 night “Yangtze Sojourn” tour from General Tours World Traveler join curators from the Shaanxi History Museum for a behind the scenes look at priceless artifacts excavated from nearby archaeological sites. The hands-on experience actually provides guests with an opportunity to touch and examine some of the artifacts. Priced from $5,499 per person through April, 2011, the tour visits Beijing, Xian, Shanghai, Suzhou, Guilin, and Hong Kong and also includes a Yangtze River cruise. Bookings must be made by December 31. More information is available by visiting www.GeneralTours.com or phoning 800-221-2216.

Bar & Bat Mitzvah atop Masada, Israel: 15 days/13 nights, custom prices

For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Jewish boys and girls, their family and friends, can experience a Bar Mitzvah atop the legendary mountain and ancient fort of Masada in Israel. Isram individually tailors a 15 day/13 night tour, including a local rabbi to conduct the ceremony, and accommodations for those attending. Prices are customized, depending on arrangements selected. Available through April, 2011. For more information visit www.isram.com; or phone 800-223-7460.

All prices are per person, based on double occupancy. Restrictions and additional security fees, departure and local taxes and fees may apply. Prices may vary based on departure date. Visit www.USTOA.com.