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What is a tour and why should you go on one.

Annisa Maher

Posted on 13 august 2020.

For First Time Solo Travellers

Or less-experienced travellers in general, making decisions when trying to plan for the ultimate travel adventure can be incredibly daunting. How to get from one place to another, how to see everything you want to see in a certain amount of time. The list goes on. The good news is that going on a tour can make those decisions a whole lot easier and take the stress out of the equation.

I think tours are a really great way to ease into stepping out of your comfort zone. Why? Because everyone you are doing it with is in the exact same boat. A tour is essentially an organised trip that is guided and, honestly, who doesn’t enjoy a bit of organised fun?

Dispelling Myths About Tours

Group tours can sometimes get a bad wrap, particularly from adventurous souls who prefer to go their own way at their own pace, in search of a road less travelled by. But many don’t know that opting for a tour doesn’t mean you have to compromise on adventure, independence or more low-key destinations.

There exists the assumption that tours can be too large and impersonal, over-guided, and subject to a strict itinerary. While this may still be the case for some, this structure has changed dramatically in recent times. Most group tour operators these days now focus on offering flexibility, variety and smaller, more intimate tours.

It’s also important to note that group tours are not one size fits all. The number of types of tours are endless. But I can guarantee that you are bound to find one that suits your travel style and expectations and allows you to meet like-minded people.

Some tours choose to just scratch the surface and cover as many key tourist sights as possible. Others may choose a slower and more authentic approach that focuses more on educating travellers on the destination, culture and environment.

From sightseeing tours, to eco-tours, to adventure tours, there’s a myriad of options out there that are worth exploring!

The Value of a Guide

One of the biggest benefits of choosing a tour is the guide.

Tour companies will often employ local people, meaning guides often have first-hand experience living in and exploring the destination. This comes hand in hand with extensive knowledge of the area, along with its culture and history. Because of this, the experience is made ten times more authentic and personal, because you are being shown the destination through the eyes of an insider.

Local guides also have the hot tips: the hidden gems, the cutest locally-owned shops where you can buy gifts for your friends back home, and which cafe to get the best oat milk flat white from (if you don’t know what that is, you’re in for a treat).

A good tour guide is engaging, passionate and knows how to tell a story.

Having a guide show you around should feel like wandering around town with a mate. Exploring little streets and quirky stores, doing a bit of window shopping along the way, trading stories and anecdotes, popping into a bakery for a treat, taking some photos for the gram and finishing the day off with a nice cold beer and a burger at the pub on the corner. Throw some valuable insight and knowledge about the destination and culture into the mix, and you’ve basically got yourself a guided tour. Who would have thought?

Meet Like Minded People

Let’s not forget that travelling is all about meeting new people and sharing experiences with them.

So, what better way to do that than throw yourself into the deep end right from the start and spend days (or weeks) eating, drinking, sleeping and exploring with your own little travel crew?

There’s something really special about discovering new places with new people who are like minded and share the same passion for travel. It really does make the whole experience so much more enriching and memorable.

Take it from someone who works for a tour company and sees it every week. Travellers start the week off as complete strangers, all from different walks of life, bringing their own experiences and stories to the table, and over the course of the week they become such a tight-knit family that by the end, they don’t want to part ways.

You never know what could happen. Whether it’s finding the perfect summer fling to get you over your breakup or meeting friends for life that you will go on to travel with for years. The possibilities are endless!

The sense of community that comes hand in hand with people choosing to go on an adventure together is pretty heartwarming and in my opinion, is what travelling is all about.

Avoid Logistical Nightmares

Sometimes, it’s best just to leave it to the experts to take care of the logistics.

Don’t want to be blind sighted by national park fees that you were unaware of? How about left desperately searching for the nearest gas station? Or having to deal with a bus or accommodation booking gone wrong when you’ve had approximately 2 hours of sleep and a ton of tequila?

If you opt for a tour, not only does it often make more sense financially, but EVERYTHING is organised and taken care of for you. This means that you have more time to just be, enjoy and take it all in without worrying about where to be, how to get there or what to do.

To put this into perspective, let’s take Fraser Island as an example. Fraser Island is the largest sand island in the world, and a must-do destination on the East Coast of Australia.

No roads means the only way to get around is by driving around the island, on the sand, in a 4×4. Yes, it’s exactly as cool as it seems.

Doing a guided tour is HIGHLY recommended because not only is the island HUGE and remote, it’s also dangerous if you don’t understand the tides. As in, you could end up in the ocean if you miscalculate when high tide is.

On top of this, wouldn’t you just rather have all of the boring stuff (food, camping gear, transport) already sorted for you so you can spend your energy on frolicking in the pristine freshwater lakes, cruising down lazy rivers, driving like a rockstar on the beach and drinking beers by the fire?

So How Do I Find The Right Tour For Me?

You do want to make sure that you pick a tour that’s designed for travellers like you, has the vibe you’re looking for and has good reviews so make sure you do your research!

Watch some YouTube videos/travel vlogs and read some blog posts by people who have done the tour or by the company itself. These can really help give some insight into what to expect, what the company is like and if it’s for you. Word-of-mouth recommendations are usually quite reliable!

Go on the company website and even reach out to them . We all understand that this is a difficult decision to make, so we’re more than happy to answer your questions or paint a better picture for you. At the end of the day, we just want you to have an unreal and unforgettable experience, because a good tour is one you will never forget.

Still want to learn more?

Then our legendary guide Clauds has made a video below just for you.

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Tour vs. Travel

What's the difference.

Tour and travel are two closely related concepts that involve exploring new places and experiencing different cultures. While tour refers to a planned and organized trip with a specific itinerary, travel is a broader term that encompasses any journey or movement from one place to another. Tours are often guided and include prearranged accommodations, transportation, and activities, providing a structured and hassle-free experience for travelers. On the other hand, travel can be more spontaneous and flexible, allowing individuals to explore at their own pace and make their own arrangements. Both tour and travel offer unique opportunities for discovery, adventure, and personal growth, catering to different preferences and travel styles.

Further Detail

Introduction.

When it comes to exploring new destinations and experiencing different cultures, two popular options that come to mind are tours and independent travel. Both have their own unique attributes and advantages, catering to different preferences and travel styles. In this article, we will delve into the various aspects of tours and travel, comparing their attributes to help you make an informed decision for your next adventure.

1. Planning and Organization

One of the key differences between tours and travel lies in the level of planning and organization required. Tours are pre-arranged itineraries that are meticulously planned by tour operators. They take care of all the logistics, including accommodation, transportation, and activities. This can be a great advantage for those who prefer a hassle-free experience, as everything is taken care of, allowing you to simply enjoy the journey.

On the other hand, independent travel requires more personal planning and organization. You have the freedom to choose your own itinerary, accommodation, and transportation options. This flexibility allows you to tailor your trip according to your preferences and interests. However, it also means that you need to invest time and effort into researching and making arrangements, which can be both exciting and challenging.

2. Flexibility and Freedom

When it comes to flexibility and freedom, independent travel takes the lead. As mentioned earlier, you have the freedom to create your own itinerary and make spontaneous decisions along the way. You can explore off-the-beaten-path destinations, stay longer in places you love, or change your plans as you go. This level of flexibility allows for a more immersive and personalized travel experience.

On the other hand, tours often follow a fixed schedule and itinerary. While this may limit your freedom to some extent, it also ensures that you don't miss out on popular attractions and experiences. Tours often include expert guides who provide valuable insights and knowledge about the destinations, enhancing your overall understanding and appreciation of the places you visit.

3. Social Interaction

If you enjoy meeting new people and socializing during your travels, tours can be a fantastic option. Joining a tour group allows you to connect with like-minded individuals from different parts of the world. You can share experiences, exchange travel tips, and create lasting friendships. This social aspect of tours can be particularly appealing for solo travelers or those who prefer a ready-made social network.

On the other hand, independent travel offers a different kind of social interaction. It provides opportunities to interact with locals on a deeper level, immersing yourself in the local culture and traditions. You can stay in local guesthouses, eat at neighborhood restaurants, and engage in authentic experiences that may not be part of a typical tour itinerary. This can lead to more meaningful connections and a richer cultural experience.

4. Cost and Budget

Cost is an important factor to consider when comparing tours and travel. Tours often come with a fixed price that includes accommodation, transportation, and activities. This can make budgeting easier, as you know the total cost upfront. Additionally, tour operators often have established relationships with suppliers, allowing them to negotiate better deals and pass on the savings to the travelers.

On the other hand, independent travel allows you to have more control over your expenses. You can choose budget-friendly accommodation options, eat at local eateries, and decide which activities are worth the investment. However, it's important to note that unexpected expenses can arise during independent travel, such as transportation delays or last-minute changes in plans, which may impact your budget.

5. Safety and Security

When it comes to safety and security, both tours and independent travel have their own advantages. Tours often provide a sense of security, as you are accompanied by experienced guides who are familiar with the destination. They can offer guidance, handle any unforeseen situations, and ensure your safety throughout the trip.

On the other hand, independent travel requires you to take responsibility for your own safety. While this may seem daunting, it also allows you to exercise caution and make informed decisions based on your own judgment. By researching the destination, understanding local customs, and taking necessary precautions, you can have a safe and enjoyable travel experience.

In conclusion, both tours and independent travel have their own unique attributes and advantages. Tours offer convenience, organization, and the opportunity to meet new people, while independent travel provides flexibility, freedom, and a deeper cultural immersion. The choice between the two ultimately depends on your personal preferences, travel style, and the type of experience you seek. Whether you opt for a guided tour or decide to embark on an independent adventure, the most important thing is to embrace the journey and create unforgettable memories.

Comparisons may contain inaccurate information about people, places, or facts. Please report any issues.

Tour vs. Travel: What's the Difference?

Key Differences

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Date: May 23, 2024

Everything You Need to Know About Travel & Tourism Industry

The travel and tourism industry is a crucial global sector, with distinct differences that influence experiences and activities. While closely related, there are distinct differences between travel and tourism that shape the experiences and activities within these realms. Travel involves moving between locations for business, leisure, or personal reasons, involving various forms of travel. Tourism, on the other hand, involves traveling to different locations for leisure or business purposes, typically involving a round trip and a stay of at least 24 hours.

Understanding the distinction between travel and tourism is crucial for understanding their diverse activities and services. Travel focuses on movement, while tourism emphasizes exploration and discovery. This distinction influences planning, duration, activities, and communication preferences. Understanding these industries helps shape travel experiences and global interactions. Read on to find more interesting differences between the travel and tourism industries.

What is the Difference Between Travel & Tourism Industry?

The terms travel and tourism are often used side by side and are closely linked. However, there are differences between the two. In this blog, we will find out more about the difference between both travel and tourism and the activities that set them apart.

• What is tourism industry? – Tourism is the act of traveling to a different location for either business or pleasure for more than one consecutive year
• What is travel industry? – Travel refers to moving from one location to another. It can be long-distance, short-distance, overseas or domestic travel and can cover a wide variety of different travel purposes.

It is completely understandable that many find it hard to figure out the distinction between both the terms because there seems to be a significant overlap. Many of the businesses and service providers seem to carter for both travel and tourism.

Despite the progressive and adaptive nature of the industry where the changes are evident via new introduction of tourism forms , there is no attempt to develop a commonly accepted definition of travel and tourism.

While we have attempted to define the concept of travel and tourism from a generic perspective, the practical application of the meanings we outlined can be difficult when used for specific types.

We would say that academics and practitioners from the industry have to come up with appropriate definitions so that it will represent the travel and tourism industry that operates today.

Evolution of the Travel & Tourism Industry

Here is a graphic we prepared that highlights the evolution of the travel and tourism industry .

What Are the Sectors and Components Within the Travel and Tourism Industry?

In this section, we will explain the various sectors and components that are present in the travel and tourism industry.

Sectors Within the Travel and Tourism Industry

1. transportation, airline industry.

The transport (accessibility) system is one of the main key parts of the travel and tourism industry. It is considered as a link between tourist generating and tourism destination regions. Some of the major airlines in the world are,

• Emirates Airline
• Jet Airways
• Malaysia Airlines
• Air France KLM
• Southwest Airlines

People give a lot of importance to comfort while traveling. That is why there is a huge rise in companies that provide a variety of vehicles according to requirement and comfort of the clients. Some of the famous car rental companies are,

• Budget Rent a Car

Water transport

Waterways are important to the transportation of people and goods throughout the world. It has played a vital role in drawing different parts of the world closer and is essential to foreign trade. The different types of water transport are,

• Tug boats, Rigs

Bus & coach

Buses and coaches are one of the most important forms of passenger transport around the world. They have been shaping sustainable mobility for more than a century. Here are some of the luxury busses in the world,

• Marchi Mobile EleMMent Palazzo
• Featherlite Vantare Platinum Plus
• Prevost H3-45 VIP
• Foretravel IH-45 Luxury Motor Coach
• Country Coach Prevost

Railways have helped mankind in many ways – in both voyages of commerce and discovery. They are still the most popular form of transport and given the environmental benefits , they will be with us for many years to come. Here are some of the most famous trains in the world,

• Trans-Siberian Express
• Orient Express
• Flying Scotsman
• Golden Arrow
• Maharajas’ Express

This type of transportation has developed in recent years and is going to be quite influential in the years to come. The most famous company offering commercial space tourism is Virgin Galactic .

2. Accommodation

Hotels are one of the most popular forms of accommodations for tourists or anyone who is looking for a place to stay overnight or on a short-term basis. They provide guests with private rooms, bathroom and other facilities. Some of the popular hotels in the world are

• Emirates Palace
• Rancho Valencia Resort & Spa
• The Westin Excelsior
• Burj Al Arab Hotel

Shared accommodations

Shared accommodations are commonly defined as two or more people living in accommodation together. Usually, each person will have their own bed and will share certain common areas such as kitchens and bathrooms. This is a budget-friendly option for tourists. Some of the most popular shared accommodation service providers are,

• OneFineStay

Camping or temporary shelter is an outdoor accommodation which is in the form of a tent. Travelers who camp will also prefer to stay at a commercial campsite which has additional facilities. Some of the popular camping sites in the world are,

• Mount Cook National Park, New Zealand
• Devon, England
• Loch Lomond & The Trossachs, Scotland
• The Alps, France
• Hossa National Park, Finland

Bed and breakfast (B&B)

Bed-and-breakfast are cozy accommodations that are inviting, intimate environment where innkeepers are often present to look after every guest. In some cases, the owner of the B&B may live in the building too. Some of the most popular B&B’s in the world are,

• Le Quartier Sonang — Amsterdam
• Bed and Breakfast by the Beach — Bournemouth, England
• Arbor Guest House — Napa Valley, California
• Glendon Guest House — Derbyshire, England.
• Cliffside Inn Bed And Breakfast — Newport, R.I.

Cruise is a combined form of transportation and accommodation. People who go on cruise travel will have their own cabin where they can rest and relax. A major part of the passenger’s time is spent on the cruise ship. Some of the most popular cruise destinations in the world are,

• Avignon, France
• Glacier Bay, Alaska
• Vienna, Austria

Timeshare accommodation

Timesharing is shared ownership of a vacation property. A management company handles the construction of a property and sells shares where buyers can spend a specific amount of time on the property usually 1 week per year. Famous timeshare resorts in the world are,

• The Ritz Carlton Club
• The Disney Vacation Club
• The Marriott Vacation Club
• The Hilton Grand Vacations Club
• The Hyatt Residence Club

3. Food & Beverage

Restaurants.

The restaurant and dining business is equally important as the scenery, accommodations, and destination areas because tourists want to engage in local culture when they go on a holiday. If you have any plans to create a restaurant website we have written a detailed blog about the essential elements a restaurant website must-have . Here are some of the famous restaurants in the world,

• Osteria Francescana
• El Celler de Can Roca
• Eleven Madison Park

Bars & cafés

Bars & Cafés give a relaxed environment for travelers to eat and drink. Bars tend to focus on selling alcoholic drinks and soft drinks whereas cafés sell hot drinks and snacks. We have also written a detailed blog that has an amazing list of bakery & cafés website design inspiration , do check it out. Some of the world-famous bars & cafés are,

• The Broken Shaker
• Bell in Hand Tavern
• El Floridita
• Sant’Eustachio il Caffe
• La Cafeotheque

Nightclubs are commercial establishments that will stay open until late at night. These places combine music, dance and alcohol sales. Some of the world-famous nightclubs are,

• Green Valley

4. Entertainment

Casinos are similar to indoor amusement parks, but it is for adults. It has many games of chance such as slot machines, blackjack, roulette, craps, keno and baccarat provides billions of dollars in revenue for casinos. Some of the world-famous casinos are,

• WinStar World Casino
• Venetian Macau
• City of Dreams

Shopping plays a vital role in the travel and tourism industry as it caters the basic necessities and it is also a form of entertainment. Many people specifically travel to experience shopping in those destinations. Some of the world-famous shopping destinations are,

• New York City

Museums have objects and materials of cultural, religious and historical importance in one place. They are presented to the public for education and enjoyment. Some of the world-famous museums are,

• Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art
• National Gallery of Canada
• Tate Modern
• The Metropolitan Museum Of Art
• Mauritshuis

Theme parks

A theme park has various attractions, such as rides, games and events for entertainment. They will also have shops, restaurants and other entertainment outlets. Such types of parks can be enjoyed by adults, teenagers and children. Some of the famous theme parks in the world are,

• Universal Studios
• Pleasure Beach
• Alton Towers

Components of Travel Services

Travel agency.

A travel agency sells or arranges transportation, accommodations, tours and trips for travelers. Some of the functions of a travel agency are to recommend a particular service that will be suitable for the traveler, provide assistance in procuring travel documents, process travel arrangements and give assistance in case of refunds or cancellations.

Online travel agency (OTA)

An OTA is a travel website that specializes in providing travel services to customers including flights, hotels, car rentals, cruises, activities, and packages. These websites have in-built booking systems that allow users to instantly book.

Some of the popular examples of OTAs are Expedia, Priceline and Orbitz. We have also written a detailed blog about what is an online travel agency and the benefits of partnering with them. If you are planning to create an OTA website, you can take inspiration from these 100+ travel websites .

Tour operators

A tour operator will combine tour products and travel services together to offer packaged holidays to the customers. Usually, a packaged tour will have a combination of air travel, accommodation and entertainment. The tour operator will provide organized activities for customers.

Destination marketing organizations (DMO)

DMO’s represent destinations and help to promote a particular destination as an attractive one by creating a long-term travel and tourism strategy.

Through this, they try to strengthen the economic position of that place which in turn will improve the employment opportunity for the people in that region. At ColorWhistle, we can help any type of travel and tourism provider to improve online visibility . All you have to do is, just get in touch with us to learn how we can help.

Drive Conversions and Boost your Business with Expert Travel Website Development.

How can colorwhistle’s digital solutions help travel and tourism businesses.

One thing that is common in this blog is that when we were researching to find the famous travel-related product or service provider in the world, each one of the big players had amazing websites. Those websites were the gateway through which those players showed their expertise to the world.

That is where ColorWhiste can help. We will help you to present your capability to the online world. If you are Solopreneur looking to enter the travel arena or growing or established travel business, we understand that improving your current state of affairs will always be on your mind.

Our amazing team at ColorWhistle can offer professional assistance. We have a powerhouse of multi-talented people experienced in web development and digital marketing .

If it is redesigning your existing website or creating a new one, we can polish your online image in no time. Get in touch with us today and let’s talk business!

In quest of the Perfect Travel Tech Solutions Buddy?

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About the Author - Anjana

Anjana is a full-time Copywriter at ColorWhistle managing content-related projects. She writes about website technologies, digital marketing, and industries such as travel. Plus, she has an unhealthy addiction towards online marketing, watching crime shows, and chocolates.

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Guided Tours Gain Popularity Among Millennials and Gen Z

Jesse Chase-Lubitz , Skift

June 26th, 2024 at 12:29 PM EDT

A new survey by GetYourGuide found that 70% of respondents have a plan to book a guided tour in the next year.

Jesse Chase-Lubitz

Guided tours are experiencing a resurgence, with Millennials and Gen Z leading the trend, according to a new survey from Berlin-based GetYourGuide.

Of 1,000 U.S. individuals who traveled for leisure at least once in the past 12 months, 70% planned to book a guided tour for the next year, the survey found. Roughly two in five of Millennials and Gen Z travelers surveyed booked a guided tour in the past year, the results show – that’s 40% of Gen Z and 42% of Millennials compared to 22% of Gen X and 22% of Boomers.

“Across the board, we see travelers expressing interest in authentic experiences where local experts can unlock something deeper about a destination,” GetYourGuide’s chief marketing officer Emil Martinsek told Skift.

Authentic Experiences

Travelers seemed particularly drawn to tours that brought them closer to the society or geography they visited. They prioritized a deep dive into the history of a city or landmark, experiencing local cuisine, and the opportunity to meet locals.

Walking tours were most popular with bus or boat tours following closely behind.

Out of those surveyed, 89% of travelers believed that a local guide is essential for exploring a new destination.

An Ongoing Trend

The findings track with a previous report , published by research and events company Arival in January. This study showed that Millennials and Gen Z are prioritizing guided tours, from culinary and shopping tours to eco and adventure tours. 

Arival’s 2024 U.S. Tour Taker Report found that the younger generation is shifting from sightseeing to experiential tours. Sightseeing tours remain the most popular overall, but that popularity is driven by people over the age of 55. Younger travelers are looking for something more active, experiential, or educational.

The trend is likely to stay positive. GetYourGuide’s latest study also showed that nearly all leisure travelers who booked a guided tour in 2023 plan to do so again this year. 

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What Is Tour and Travel Management

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What Is Tour and Travel Management?

Tour and Travel Management is a dynamic industry that revolves around the planning, organization, and execution of travel-related activities. It plays a crucial role in ensuring memorable and hassle-free experiences for travelers, whether they are embarking on leisure trips, business ventures, or educational tours. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of tour and travel management, shedding light on its significance, core functions, and the exciting career opportunities it offers.

Understanding Tour and Travel Management

The essence of tour management .

Tour management involves the meticulous planning and coordination of all aspects of a trip, from selecting destinations and accommodations to arranging transportation and creating itineraries. Tour managers strive to ensure that travelers have a seamless and enjoyable journey.

The Role of Travel Management 

On the other hand, travel management focuses on the logistics of getting from one place to another. This includes flight bookings, ground transportation, visa processing, and travel insurance. It’s all about making sure travelers reach their destinations safely and comfortably.

The Significance of Efficient Tour and Travel Management 

Efficient tour and travel management are critical for several reasons. Firstly, it ensures that travelers have stress-free experiences, enhancing customer satisfaction and loyalty. Secondly, it maximizes cost-effectiveness for both travelers and travel agencies by optimizing resources. Lastly, it contributes to the promotion of tourism, boosting economies worldwide.

Core Functions of Tour and Travel Management

Planning and research .

In this phase, tour and travel managers conduct thorough research on destinations, identifying attractions, accommodations, and travel options. They create detailed itineraries tailored to the preferences and needs of their clients.

Booking and Reservation

This stage involves securing bookings for flights, hotels, transportation, and any additional services such as guided tours or excursions. Managers ensure that all reservations are confirmed and meet the client’s requirements.

Customer Support and Assistance

During the trip, tour and travel managers provide constant support to clients. They address any issues or concerns that may arise and ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Crisis Management 

In unforeseen circumstances, such as flight cancellations or natural disasters, managers are trained to handle crises effectively. They make alternative arrangements to ensure the safety and well-being of travelers.

Career Opportunities in Tour and Travel Management 

The field of tour and travel management offers a wide range of exciting career opportunities. Some popular roles include:

Tour Manager 

Tour managers lead groups of travelers, guiding them through their journeys, and ensuring everything runs smoothly.

Travel Consultant 

Travel consultants help clients plan their trips, offering expertise on destinations, travel options, and accommodations.

Travel Agent 

Travel agents facilitate the booking process, arranging flights, hotels, and other travel-related services.

Destination Marketing Manager 

These professionals promote tourist destinations, collaborating with local businesses and organizations to boost tourism.

In conclusion, tour and travel management is a vibrant industry that orchestrates unforgettable experiences for travelers. It encompasses various functions, each contributing to the success of a trip. Moreover, it offers a plethora of career opportunities for those passionate about travel and adventure.

Sata Abu Dhabi

Sata Abu Dhabi, short for “South Asian Travel Awards Abu Dhabi,” is an esteemed annual event that recognizes excellence in the travel and tourism industry. It celebrates the outstanding contributions of businesses, destinations, and professionals in the South Asian region. Sata Abu Dhabi serves as a platform for networking, knowledge sharing, and acknowledging the tireless efforts of individuals and organizations that elevate the travel and tourism sector in the South Asian region. It showcases the region’s diverse attractions and the exceptional services offered to travelers, fostering growth and innovation in the industry.

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When it comes to travel, one of the most popular ways to explore a new destination is through a tour. But what exactly is a tour in travel? In this blog post, we will delve into the concept of tours and why they are a preferred choice for many travelers.

Definition of a Tour

A tour in travel refers to a planned and organized trip that typically includes a group of people visiting various attractions and destinations. It is usually led by a tour guide who provides information, guidance, and assistance throughout the journey. Tours can range from a few hours to several days, depending on the itinerary and preferences of the travelers.

Types of Tours

Tours come in various forms to cater to different interests, budgets, and travel styles. Here are some common types of tours:

1. Guided Tours

Guided tours are the most traditional and popular type of tour. They involve a tour guide leading a group of travelers and providing commentary and insights about the destinations visited. Guided tours can be conducted on foot, by bus, boat, or even by bike, depending on the location and activities included.

2. Group Tours

Group tours are designed for travelers who prefer to explore with a larger group of people. These tours often have fixed departure dates and itineraries, and travelers join the group to experience the journey together. Group tours can be a great way to meet new people and share the travel experience.

3. Private Tours

Private tours offer a more personalized and exclusive experience. They are tailored to the specific preferences and needs of an individual or a small group of travelers. Private tours provide flexibility in terms of itinerary, pace, and activities, allowing for a more customized travel experience.

4. Adventure Tours

For those seeking adrenaline-pumping experiences, adventure tours are the way to go. These tours are designed for thrill-seekers and offer activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, and more. Adventure tours often take travelers off the beaten path and allow them to explore the natural wonders of a destination.

5. Cultural Tours

Cultural tours focus on immersing travelers in the local culture and traditions of a destination. They include visits to historical sites, museums, art galleries, and opportunities to interact with locals. Cultural tours provide a deeper understanding and appreciation of the destination’s heritage.

Benefits of Taking a Tour

Now that we know what a tour is, let’s explore the benefits of choosing a tour for your next travel adventure:

1. Convenience

Tours take care of the logistics, including transportation, accommodation, and itinerary planning. This saves travelers the hassle of organizing everything themselves and allows them to focus on enjoying the experience.

2. Expert Knowledge

Tour guides are knowledgeable about the destinations and can provide valuable insights and information. They often share interesting stories, historical facts, and local tips, enhancing the overall travel experience.

3. Safety and Security

Traveling with a tour group provides an added layer of safety and security, especially in unfamiliar or remote locations. Tour guides are trained to handle any unforeseen situations and ensure the well-being of the group.

4. Social Interaction

Joining a tour allows travelers to meet like-minded individuals from around the world. It provides an opportunity to make new friends, share experiences, and create lasting memories together.

5. Time Efficiency

Tours are designed to maximize the time spent at each destination. They often include skip-the-line access to popular attractions, allowing travelers to make the most of their time and see more in a shorter period.

A tour in travel is a well-organized and guided journey that offers convenience, expert knowledge, safety, social interaction, and time efficiency. Whether you prefer a guided tour, a private tour, or an adventure tour, there are plenty of options available to suit your travel style and preferences. So, the next time you plan your trip, consider joining a tour to enhance your travel experience.

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Travel vs. Tour — What's the Difference?

Difference Between Travel and Tour

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Will boats be allowed on the Milwaukee River during the RNC? What about Edelweiss boat tours?

T he boundaries of the restricted security perimeter for  the July 15-18 Republican National Convention  in downtown Milwaukee were announced Friday and include a portion of the Milwaukee River. Here's what to know.

Will boats be allowed on the Milwaukee River during the RNC?

From July 14-19, no commercial or recreational boats will be allowed on the Milwaukee River from Cherry Street to Michigan Street, and road bridges in this area will remain down during the convention.

Get daily updates on the Packers during the season.

Boat owners don't have to go through pedestrian screening to access private vessels docked on the river.

Private vessels in the maritime security zone may leave and return on the river as long as their boats don't require the bridges to be raised. Before departure and re-entry, owners must contact the U.S. Coast Guard on VHF-FM Channel 16 to request an escort.

Vessels returning to the maritime security zone to be docked will be subject to screening.

Will Edelweiss and other tour boats be running during the RNC?

Edelweiss Cruises , which operates a variety of public and private boat tours on the Milwaukee River and Lake Michigan, will be moving its largest vessel, the Harbor Lady, to Port Washington during the RNC. According to Edelweiss' website, the cruise company is offering a Port Washington Sightseeing Cruise twice daily July 13 through 18.

The cruise, a partnership with  Visit Port Washington , departs from the Port Washington Harbor and is narrated by an onboard representative from the Port Washington Historical Society. Cruises depart at 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. Edelweiss will offer no Milwaukee cruises from July 14 to 18; normal operations will resume on July 19.

Edelweiss is, however, offering dockside rentals of its two other vessels, the Miss Wisconsin and Edelweiss II, to RNC groups in Milwaukee, said Lindsay Paar Schwegler, director of operations and special events coordinator at Edelweiss Cruises.

"This would mean that the boat would not be able to move, but groups could stay dockside and enjoy a venue in extreme close proximity to the Fiserv Forum," Schwegler said. "We have yet to garner any interest in this option."

Milwaukee Paddle Tavern , which offers 14-person pedal boat tours and duffy boat rentals, will not operate out of its docks behind the Harp Irish Pub on Juneau Avenue between July 13 and 19. The company said it plans to operate tours and rentals from its docks at Boone & Crockett on the Kinnickinnic River during these dates.

Other boat tour companies, including Milwaukee Boat Line and Riverwalk Boat Tours , do not have tours available during the RNC. According to their websites, Milwaukee Boat Line is not operating tours from July 15 through 18, and Riverwalk will not offer tours or rentals from July 14 through 19.

Will kayak and paddleboard rentals be available during the RNC?

Small watercraft rental companies, including Cream City Boats  and Milwaukee Kayak Company , will not be able to launch boats on the Milwaukee River during the RNC. Milwaukee Kayak Company told the Journal Sentinel that boaters will be able to launch from locations on the Menomonee and Kinnickinnic rivers.

More: Boat companies say Milwaukee River through downtown to be shut down during RNC

More: Here's which streets will be closed during the Republican National Convention and when

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Will boats be allowed on the Milwaukee River during the RNC? What about Edelweiss boat tours?

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These Stunning Caribbean Caves Were Just Named One of the World’s Top Attractions by Tripadvisor

The Cayman Crystal Caves formed millions of years ago.

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The Cayman Islands have long lured visitors to its luxurious beaches and tropical forests. But in recent years, travelers have started going underground — literally — to the Cayman Crystal Caves , which was just named one of the top attractions in the world in Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards , announced this week.

Located on the Grand Cayman Island’s Northside, the attraction opened in 2016, with 1.5-hour guided tours leading visitors through a tropical forest and three caves. Formed millions of years ago, the caves were once underwater, as proven by fossilized shells and other signs of sea life. The slow work of Mother Nature, carving out the caves drip-by-drip with rainwater on the limestone has created stunning crystal-like stalagmites and stalagtites, giving the caverns an otherworldly feel.

The tour goes through an open-ceiling cave, a root one, and perhaps the most stunning, a lake cave, illuminated with lights . There’s also a chance to spot balsam trees, air plants, and even parrots and bats in the surrounding forests. For an even more unique adventure, there's also the Dusk to Dark Evening Bat Tour , where bats fly directly over your head and away into the sunset. 

While the caves had long been there, it wasn’t until the late businessman Christian Sorensen came to the area in the 1990s to survey the caves that the idea of opening them up to the public began. After all, his father Ole Sorensen had developed Barbados’ Harrison’s Cave, and the younger Sorensen thought he might be able to recreate its success in the Cayman Islands.

According to local reports, he spent 1997 to 2011 buying land and building infrastructure for the Cayman Crystal Caves. He finally began work on the exhibit in 2012 and opened it to the public in March 2016.

Now amassing more than 2,700 five-star reviews on Tripadvisor, the Cayman Crystal Caves are the only Caribbean site to make the top 25 list, earning the No. 5 spot, after far more well-known attractions: New York City's Empire State Building in first , Paris' Eiffel Tower in second, Amsterdam's Anne Frank House in third, and Barcelona's Basilica de la Sagrada Familia in fourth. 

“This attraction was the highlight of our vacation,” one recent visitor wrote on Tripadvisor, also commenting on the tour guide’s knowledge mixed with a sense of humor. “The three caves were breathtaking and I would highly recommend this attraction if you're spending time on the island!”

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Taylor swift gives sweet nod to travis kelce as he skips first dublin eras tour show.

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Travis Kelce did not attend Taylor Swift’s first Eras Tour show in Dublin, Ireland, Friday night after spending time with her in England earlier this week.

Despite Kelce’s absence, Swift seemingly gave a nod to the Kansas City Chiefs star with a special piece of jewelry.

Fans noticed the pop star, 34, re-wore her Tiffany & Co. Tiffany T Diamond Wire Ring  ($2,675), which features a duo of diamond-dotted Ts — the couple’s initials.

Swift wore the same yellow-gold band last weekend ahead of Kelce’s surprise onstage appearance.

The athlete attended all three of Swift’s shows in London last weekend, where he was joined by a slew of other famous faces — including Prince William, whom he described as the “coolest motherf—ker.”

The NFL star, 34, also brought brother Jason Kelce and his wife, Kylie Kelce, along for the first two nights.

Although Travis has seen the show several times, it was the first time the former Philadelphia Eagles player, 36, got to see Swift in concert.

During Wednesday’s episode of the Kelce brother’s “New Heights” podcast , Jason admitted the show was so “amazing” he even began “tearing up” at one point.

Jason told Travis that he got emotional watching Swift gift a young fan her famous “22” hat during the “Red” set.

“Dude, I’ve never cried at a f—king concert,” Jason, who is dad to three daughters, said. “It was f—king so special. It was great.”

Despite that, the sports commentator said his “favorite” part of the three-hour show was the surprise songs section.

“To be able to perform those seamlessly on the spot with nothing else to hide it, that was the highlight of the evening for me.”

While Jason got to see two back-to-back shows, he missed his younger brother’s cameo by one day.

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Travis shocked fans last Sunday when he came out on stage during the “Tortured Poets Department” set.

Dressed in a suit and top hat, the football star swept the singer into his arms and carried her across the stage during the skit.

After helping Swift change outfits and freshen up, he cheered her on as she launched into “I Can Do It With a Broken Heart.”

Swift later posted several photos and videos of the sweet interaction on Instagram, telling fans she was still “swooning” over it.

The couple, who started dating last summer, celebrated the successful surprise at Chiltern Firehouse alongside several of their close friends.

The pair partied until the wee hours of the morning but kept a low profile in the days following.

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Super-size your farm shop experience with a food tour of South Devon

The humble farm shop has become a gourmet go-to in this beach-blessed slice of the South West, where rolling hills also host medal-winning wineries and distillers make spirits recalling Devon’s rum-running pirate days.

“Local craft ale was once a favourite, but ciders, particularly small-batch, are back,” says Greendale Farm Shop’s ruddy-cheeked Rich Jones, holding up a jerrycan labelled ‘Proper Job’. “It’s a Devon scrumpy made with our apples by Keith Hosein, an 80-year-old local farmer who still uses a hand crusher.”

A Devon farm shop stocked with cider is no surprise, but what is astonishing is Greendale’s multitude of local goods, from veggies, cheese, meat and preserves to pastries, sourdough, ice cream and souvenirs. All are either produced on site or are West Country sourced, filling a giant barn and outbuildings akin to a rustic mall. “The shop started 15 years ago, selling farm eggs from a roadside shed,” says Rich. “But during Covid we really became a community hub and have grown a lot since.” Not only has Greendale’s restaurant capacity doubled, queues for its weekend ‘farmer’s breakfast’ go out the door. It’s also home to a chippie, which shifts 200 kilos of fish from Friday to Sunday.

Yet quality, as well as quantity, prevails. People travel cross-county for its butcher’s handmade sausages and four-week-matured boned steak. Lobster tanks, house-smoked fish and a bounty of local catch grace the wet-fish counter. Above it, photos feature Greendale’s fishing fleet in action at its harbour bases in Brixham, Newlyn and Exeter.

Large-scale farm shops like Greendale are becoming the norm here in South Devon, dotting the county’s rolling pasturelands. In fact, there’s another just minutes from Greendale — Darts Farm, a ‘lifestyle shopping destination’ that’s grown out of a farm hut. And, while South Devon farm-food enterprises like Hugh Fearnley-Whittingstall’s River Cottage and Riverford Organic Farmers’ veg boxes have long garnered national attention, a multitude of other local farm-food powerhouses has blossomed in recent years.

Just south along the River Exe, something else is flourishing. I follow lanes twittering with spring life, to Exmouth, where the vineyard at Lympstone Manor Estate has just produced its first classic cuvée. Rows of vines lend Continental panache to the hotel’s grounds, which rake steeply from Georgian manor to estuary. Premium sparkling wine was Lympstone’s headline mission in 2018 when planting Chardonnay, Pinot Meunier and Pinot Noir, but the latter has so far yielded the biggest surprise.

“After 2020’s long, hot summer, we let the Pinot Noir grapes hang,” says Lympstone’s Steve Edwards, referring to the practice of harvesting grapes for red wines later than usual. “It’s always a risk — frost and fungus are a terror in this country,” says the Australian ex-pat, “but we won gold at the 2023 International Wine Challenge.” Not bad for a first harvest, I say — and for an English red, no less. Steve nods. “Everyone associates English wine with sparkling, but there’s an amazing future for high-quality still wines.”

I try both: the biscuity, zesty cuvée at Lympstone’s lounge bar; the brambly fruit Triassic Pinot Noir at dinner, which pairs well with a gamey poached chicken from South Devon’s Creedy Carver farm. TV chef Michael Caines, Lympstone’s chef-owner, has sensibly decked out his Michelin-starred dining room with booth seating, so diners can relax into nine-course tasting menus featuring Lyme Bay crab, Newlyn cod and lamb grazed across the estuary at the Powderham Estate’s farm.

Located close to the Dart Estuary in the beautiful stone-built village of Stoke Gabriel, Sharpham Wine is another medal-winner for its reds. With around 40 years and 30 acres under its belt, accolades aren’t in short supply across a range that’s increasingly focused on low-intervention varieties. Set in a former dairy farm on Sandridge Barton Estate, it has two tasting rooms, the newer of which is set in a shingle-floor barn with sheepskins and a wood burner, overlooking a new plot of organic vines.

Circa, once the darling of Exeter’s dining scene, has moved out of the city and into the estate’s former milking shed, offering pairings with small plates showcasing house pickles and foraged fare. The single-estate Pinot Gris brings an earthy edge to a lunch of dessert-sweet milk bread with lion’s mane mushroom, cep and caerphilly from Somerset’s Westcombe Dairy.

I’m still mooning over that dish as I drive 45 minutes south to Salcombe. Here, where the Kingsbridge Estuary meets the Blue Flag beaches of the South Hams — strung in long, sandy arcs towards Plymouth and the Cornish border — it’s easy to get into the holiday spirit. Literally, at Devon Rum, where, in summer, you can dock at its shop, which backs onto the estuary, for cocktails and tastings of rums blended on site with Devon spring water, spices and raw spirits from Jamaica and Guyana. Opened in 2022, the artisan spirit-maker has a standard entrance on Island Street, just along from Salcombe Gin’s similar fisherman’s shed-like HQ. But mooring up for, say, a Devon Meadow, made with elderflower tonic, a sprig of rosemary, fresh lime juice and local honey-spiced rum adds a delightfully piratey edge to proceedings.

Meanwhile, small-batch cocktails, built for beachgoers and boaties, are on offer at Bar Buoy, over in Exmouth. “During lockdown, we started going to the beach to surf with our kids and took a shaker to make sundowner margaritas,” says Ria Ball, who founded the bar with her husband, Tim. “Friends started joining us, so we brought cocktails mixed at home in thermos flasks and, well, it all started from there.”

Locals got a taste for the young couple’s ready-to-serve tipples and a business grew out of their garage, which expanding swiftly into a chic, nautical-themed warehouse where you can now taste a range of 12 pre-mixed cocktails. From a sweet-bitter Devon Stormy made with Exeter’s Two Drifters rum to a lemon-tart bramble with Salcombe Gin and Six Liqueurs Blackberry Liqueur, local ingredients are the cocktails’ cornerstone.

I resist a stomach-lining Docker’s Egg, the signature take on a scotch egg using smoked haddock served at nearby deli Fish on the Quay. Instead I take a sunny seat by Exmouth’s slipway at Rockfish: a premium spot for some plump, briny Portland Pearl oysters and buttery, hand-dived scallops. I buy a can of Lyme Bay mussels from Rockfish’s new canned seafood range. Like everything on the menu, the sustainable catch is landed daily in Brixham, 30 miles south, by Rockfish’s boats. Owner Mitch Tonks, an abiding champion of British seafood, will soon add to his ever-expanding South West portfolio with similarly idyllic waterfront locations at Salcombe, Topsham and Sidmouth, the latter with its own moat.

South Devon has no shortage of seaside dining spots, many now encompassed by the South West 660. The coast-hugging road trip, launched in 2022, showcases the best of Dorset, Devon, Cornwall and Somerset in 12 distinct 50-mile sections, with detailed route notes and dining suggestions for travellers registered through its website. I cover just a fraction of the Devon leg, but each turn is a wow.

There’s the windblown beauty of Burgh Island in its tidal isolation at Bigbury-on-Sea, where The Oyster Shack serves oysters with toppings that include Bloody Margaret, a spicy tomato sauce with house-made gin; the dune-backed wonder of Hope Bay’s sandy coves; and the elegance of Plymouth’s Barbican district, where Jacka bakery’s ‘croissant wheels’ are somehow as delicate as they are super-sized — and all from premises that have been baking since 1597.

Britain’s oldest bakery looks like a pup compared to nearby Boringdon Hall. The hotel, set in a Domesday Book-listed country manor, is home to Àclèaf, a Michelin-starred spot in a mezzanine overlooking the 16th-century Great Hall. Halos of wildflowers and herbs frame complex dishes, described simply as ‘crab’ or ‘hen’. The cheese course is a medieval feast in keeping with Boringdon’s carved oakwood panelling, with breads, local honey still in the comb and a standout brie from South Devon’s Sharpham Cheese.

With no mead to hand, I settle, happily, for a glass of local Lyme Bay Winery’s multi-award-winning Rosé Brut. Deep pink with strawberry notes, sipping it while sampling the Jersey-milk brie is like having a deconstructed cream tea. And as Devon convention dictates, I go cream first, then ‘jam’.

The best restaurants in South Devon

1. The Angel A waterfront Dartmouth spot run by former MasterChef: The Professionals finalist Elly Wentworth. She leads a young team delivering British cooking with international flavours, plus plenty of local fish, including roasted sea bass with turnip pickle, pak choi and smoked sea lettuce (pictured). Six-course tasting menu £95.

2. Cafe Ode Come for the ginger cake, stay for special-event supper clubs at this wood cabin-like hilltop cafe above the bay at Shaldon. Michel Roux-trained chef-owner Tim Bouget brings finesse to cafe dishes, like panko-breaded Brixham dayboat fish and mugs of coconut-rich curried green lentil dahl. Dishes £4-20.

3. The Bull Inn Hippie hilltop town Totnes has fast become a foodie hub. Since opening in 2019, The Bull Inn has led the charge with veg-centered, organic dishes like roast celeriac, skordalia, charred leeks, goat’s curd, chard and pumpkin seed picada sauce. Two courses around £40.

4. V alley View Café With views across the South Hams, Aune Valley Farm Shop is an idyll that’s grown from modest hut to sprawling cafe, deli and ‘milk shed’ for flavoured shakes. The Butcher’s Breakfast comes with farm sausages and bacon, the hog roast bap is made here with Aune’s belly pork, and cream teas star locally made preserves and Devonshire clotted cream. Mains around £9-11.

Food finds in South Devon

1. Thunder & Lightning A preternaturally creamy ice cream from the UK’s first carbon-neutral farm . It’s made using an old recipe from the family’s grandma and contains honeycomb and clotted cream from Langage’s Jersey herd.

2. Chilli jam The signature fiery-sweet condiment from long-established South Devon Chilli Farm , whose impressive seed-growing set-up is fast expanding since Amrit and Jenny Madhoo took over in 2022.

3. Black Foot Charcuterie Buttery, gamey air-dried ham, capicola, salami and nduja are made from Iberian pigs raised on organic pastures at 500-acre Fowlescombe Farm .

4. Single Malt Dartmoor Whisky’s remarkable English single malts are made with Dartmoor spring water in bourbon, sherry and Bordeaux casks. Book tastings among the copper stills in the Victorian grandeur of Bovey Tracey’s former town hall.

5. Jubulani A smooth, fruity, rich award-winner made with beans from a partner women’s collective in Rwanda. Visit the Ivybridge cafe-roastery for barista classes and tasting sessions.

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• CITY GUIDES
• FOOD TOURISM
• FOOD CULTURE

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Tour Package

Package holidays, popularly known as a tour package or simply the word ‘tour’ in the travel and tourism industry refers either to a package tour escorted or not escorted by the tourist guide.

When we say tour package, it means a pre-arrangement, prepaid trip that combines two or more travel components like airfare, airport transfer, accommodation, and other services . Practically, to define the tour package concept is complex one rather understand.

Holloway defines a tour package as “a total tourism product consisting of transportation from the market area to the destination, accommodation at the destination and recreational activities promoted by the tourists.”

According to Gregorg “a tour package is advertised journey including specific features, arranged and promoted with tour literature by a tour operator and paid for in full by the tourists  before starting the tour.”

Technically, a package tour/tour package is a total tourism product as it generally includes transport from the origin place to the destination, accommodation at an en route place or at the destination and other recreational or travel services. These components are purchased by an individual, firm or company called the ‘ tour operator ‘. He combines all the travel components in a package and sells them at all-inclusive prices to the clients.

History of Tour Package

The term ‘tour’ was in vogue as early as 1670. The Britishers traveled to widen their knowledge of the continent, especially to study the culture and social life. This practice was gradually adopted by other lovers of cultural centers.

The result of the process was that many European historic and cultural centers were opened to the British tourist. By the early 1730’s the small fishing resorts around the British coast begin to attract tourists seeking to their diseases by drinking the sea-water or by immersing themselves in it.

The introduction of a rail link between the major centers in 1830, had a profound impact on the pleasure travelers for the first time. Many entrepreneurs began to inspire rail travel by organizing excursions for the public at discounted offers.

However, to ‘the origin of package tour’ the credit goes to Mr. Thomas Cook in 1855 , Cook, extended his business operation to different countries by introducing the first ‘ inclusive tour ‘ to Paris.

Mr. Cook put together all the components of tourism products and sold them as ‘inclusive tour’ to the tourists. His pre-packaged tour inspired other tour organizations in the travel industry to organize similar tours to all parts of the globe.

Most of Cook’s tours were a linear tour i.e., the person went from place to place on a single destination. Basically, Mr. Cook developed the concept of ‘grand tour and escorted tour’, the concept which is still used.

Incidentally, World War II has tremendously developed the package tour concept because of the following reasons:

• Social and Economic Conditions
• Increase in Aircrafts
• Marketing Conditions
• Legal Requirements
• Integration took place.

Today, package tours are a vital segment of the world’s travel and tourism industry. According to WTTC, the package tour sales generate $25 billion annually in the United States, $18 billion in Europe, $19 billion in Britain, and $21 billion in Asia. Today tour sales represented 50 percent of all leisure travel sales and 35 percent of all travel agency revenues.

Types of Tour Packages

A travel agency/tour operator deals with variety of ‘tour packages,’ catering to the diverse needs of tourists such as adventure, beach, architecture, cultural, business, conference, incentive tours, ayurvedic packages, Buddhist, religious, incentive tour, special interest tours, cruise tour group tour, educational tour, heritage, monuments, wildlife lovers, etc. These are broadly classified into five categories :

• Independent Tours
• Escorted Tours

Hosted Tours

• Incentives Travel/Tours

Freedom Tours

Independent tour.

Independent tours are prepared/formulated for those tourists who want to travel independently. The components of such tours are air travel, air transfer, accommodation, travel documents, sightseeing, boat riding, entertainment, and other travel services.

However, in some cases, the tourists are free to purchase every single component separately. Thus, this type of tour provides the tourists considerable freedom to plan the activities according to their own choice.

An independent tour may or may not be an all-inclusive tour. Therefore, tour price varies depending on the type of air travel, air transfer, accommodation and is inclusive of other tour components. The foreign independent travel (FITs) and domestic independent travel (DITs) are examples of an independent tour.

Escorted Tour

When a travel agency includes the services of a well educated and trained tour manager in its package, the tour is called an escorted tour. Basically, escorted tours are meant for those travelers who are planning to visit a foreign country first time.

The escort’s responsibilities and duties are to provide comprehensive information and assistance to the group or individual traveler, at the origin, en route and the destination place. The excursion tours are the example of escorted tours.

A hosted tour means when an agency utilizes the services of another agency at a particular destination. Suppose a group of French tourists is coming to India. When the group arrives in India, they are greeted at the airports by TCI, which assists them in clearing their baggage and transfer them to the hotel.

Their tour-host (TCI) is available to offer device and information about the local attractions and entertainment. Further, when the group arrives at another designation in India, a different travel agency greets them at each tourist spot. Thus, a hosted tour provides the tourists maximum level of pre-arranged and personalized services.

Incentives Travel/Tour

It is a motivational programme or a fully paid holiday which is given to the employees by the enterprises as a reward. Mostly in medium and large-scale companies and usually too distant destinations to spur them in maintaining their track record, to increase output, improve the image and moreover to earn the long period loyalty of the employees.

There are a number of the other packages offered by a tour company such as a custom tour an excursion tour, an adventure, and special interest package tours.

Freedom tours are becoming very popular these days among the working class. These tours are designed as per the choice of tourists. The tourist is free to choose and plan how they want to travel and enjoy their holidays. These types of tours are meant for that kind of people who like to decide how, when, and where to travel.

This tourist may an individual, family, group holidays for families and group travel for business. These tours are promoted and developed by the ORBIT.

Components Of Tour Package

What is to be included in a package tour largely depends and varies from one tour organization to another, or from the one country to another, or from one destination to another and from one market to another market. But there are certain well-defined travel services which always turn a part of a package tour irrespective of the tour operator/travel agency, destination and even the market condition.

If we study and see the package tours offered by Thomas Cook and Sons Ltd., Cox and King Ltd., and other international travel companies, we find that a package tour has two major components. Therefore, a standard package tour has two basic components namely:

• Ground Arrangements

Travel industry experience has shown that the first component, i.e. ‘Travel’ is directly bought by the agency from the principal providers like airlines and transport operators and for ground arrangement, the travel agency management asks the ground operators.

The reason behind buying ground arrangement from a handling agency is that it represents as a ground operator at a particular destination for the numerous tour organizations. Secondly, the price offered by it are much lower than an individual agency obtain. Thirdly, it is very difficult to get credit from the supplier and finally, it ensures professional travel services.

Factor Affecting the Tour Package Formulation

Generally, the business of package tours involves great risk, high breakeven, high-quality product, and competitive prices. Therefore, the tour management requires in-depth tour planning and market survey. However, before a tour is designed the tour manager should take into consideration certain factors which are crucial in the formulation process.

These factors have a profound impact on the tourist’s satisfaction. The main factors are:

• Purpose of Tour
• Choice of Destinations
• Tourist Budget
• Legal Requirement
• Types of Tourist Accommodation
• Tour Period
• Departure and stay information
• Tour price; inflationary condition
• Tour Reference Tools
• Tour Features – political stability
• The relationship between the host and tourist generating nation

Tour Package Design and Selection Process

The quality of a package tour is entirely based on the above factors. Essentially, to design/formulate a travel product, the tour manager has to take the biggest responsibility, intuitiveness, imagination, and innovation coupled with a lot of business activities which range from finding new exotic destinations and planning, organizing or promoting such tour.

The following are the main stages in the tour design and selection process:

1. Initial Research

(i) the destination research.

The decision to develop and formulate a new package is a multi-stage process that involves various positive and negative points/steps. Normally, the idea for a new product comes either from the tour executive within the company due to a review of the questionnaire completed by the previous tour members because of the political, economic and social development in a particular area.

When a tour manager see that a large number of old clients are interested in taking a trip to particular destinations, naturally, those destinations become the nucleus of a new ‘tour concept’.

(ii) Market Research

Since tour package is a complete tourism product, obviously, before formulating/designing this product, market research needs to be analyzed and assessed in a systematic manner. Market  research provides us the answer to the following questions:

• What is the size of the tourism market?
• Who are the existing clients?
• Where do they live?
• Who will be their potential buyers?
• Who are their competitors – their strategy and area of business leisure?
• How many tourist ones want to cater?
• What price will the clients accept?
• What facilities are available and required?
• What are the constraints viz., license, permission, finance, restrictions, taxes, and others?

Once we know the basic components of the package tour, distribution channels, market conditions, constraints in the tourism market, we can develop the marketing strategy. It enables the smooth functioning of the agency and also offers a clear picture of the tour programme. Practically, market research is conducted by the private tour companies/ private tourism enterprises in order to penetrate the market.

2. Itinerary Preparation

By itinerary one means the designing of a programme which one wants to sell and it includes destinations, stopping points, number of days and the travel services that are to be included in the programme. Whether it is a lean season or an offseason, escorted or not escorted, consumer-oriented or readymade tour programme, the itinerary is prepared to identify the origin, destinations, stopping points, accommodations, sightseeing and other travel services on travelers’ trip.

3. Handling Agency or Destination Company

The appointment of handling agency not only ensure excellent travel services to the tourist but also make the operation smooth and profitable. It is a matter of great significance as the success of travel business largely depends upon the clients are actually taken care of during the tour.

It is a positive match between the promised services and tourist’s actual experiences or feelings. Thus, the tour operator should consider the experience of the handling travel agency in the business, the area of operation, reputation, credibility, professional staff, credit facilities and the competitive price in appointing a handling agency.

4. Negotiation

It is another important management decision area in tour designing and planning. Once the decision has been made regarding the destination’s concerning their date, duration and number of clients to be carried during the trip, the tour management starts negotiations with the principals’ suppliers for a normal contract.

Negotiation means talk between the travel companies and the principal suppliers for the terms, conditions, and prices of the components of a tour package. When both parties are satisfied, it leads to a formal or informal contract between them. The tour company negotiates with the following tour vendors/suppliers:

• Accommodation
• Transport Operations- Rail and Road
• Ground Operators
• Cruise Companies
• Car Rental Companies
• The overseas representatives
• Ancillary Service Organizations

5. Coasting and Pricing a Package Tour

The cost of a package tour encompasses the air ticket, the hotel room, car rental, entertainment charges, administrative costs, promotional costs, and other travel services. The confidential tariff helps the travel company in preparing the cost sheet which will enable the concern to determine its price strategy.

Tour pricing is a big factor in the success of the company’s tour programme. The price of a package tour is, whether it is an escorted, independent or hosted the tour, often lower than the combined costs of the same components purchased separately from the principals. However, the purchase price of a travel product is based on three factors: Cost, competition, and demand.

Every tour package sold by a vendor has a quantifiable cost. To produce profit the price paid by the tourists must be greater than the agency’s cost.

6. Tour Brochure

The tour package is an intangible product which has to be purchased by the tourists/clients without inspection and sometimes even without adequate knowledge. In these circumstances, the brochure becomes the principal instrument to perform the major tasks to inform the clients about the products and to pursue them to purchase it.

Designing, printing, and distributions of tour brochures require necessary skills and knowledge about the components of the tour package. Basically, in the era of specialization and intense competition, tour brochure creates awareness and provides the description of the holiday programme.

Thus, tour management should consider various pros and cons while preparing a tour brochure. A brochure should contain the following information:

• Name of the Travel Company
• Means of transport
• Details about destinations
• Accommodation, types, location, meals
• Name of the overseas representative
• Duration of each tour
• Booking, reservation and cancellation conditions
• Details of other services – insurance, currency, entertainmentTravel documents required
• Details of price

7. Development of Reservation System

The next step in tour formulation process is reservation system. The agency management in order to put a package into operation must develop and implement a scientific reservation system. The system depends on whether the reservation is to be handled manually or with a computer working on the distribution method.

Whatever method the agency may adopt, the agency management should always keep in mind the sole objective of the reservation system.

8. Marketing of Tour Package

Once a tour package is ready, travel agency management has to make a careful decision regarding promotion and marketing of the particular package tour. The basic objective of management is to make a tour package widely known to make it more and more attractive.

To achieve these objectives, the management must consider the budget available, promotion mix, potential market, easiest and most effective media, campaigning through the international, regional or the public/private sector etc.

The promotion of a package tour means increasing its sales potential and creating an awareness of the existing and potential markets. The following methods are commonly used to promote package tours:

• Middlemen – Retail Travel Agents, GSA, consolidators
• Familiarization tours
• Building Brand Loyalty
• Encouraging Potential Buyers
• Competitive Market

9. Tour Handling/Actual Tour Operation

After the successful marketing and achieving target sales, the next and final step in the process of tour designing is tour handling. It means an actual operation of tours, which generally includes administrative work and passenger handling like maintaining reservations, handling deposits, sending advice to ground operators, arranging travel representation, analyzing the feedback received from clients/escorts/ground operator and so on.

All this is not an easy task. At every stage, one has to face different types of queries and problems due to lack of coordination and communication.

Significances of Tour Package

Tour package is beneficial to travel companies, travelers, destinations and other organizations which are directly or indirectly involved in the tourism business. The main benefits are:

• Increase the seasonality of a destination cost/price
• Earn foreign currency
• Better quality of products professional services
• Wide-variety of the tour package
• Provide bulk business to organizers